Ch. 1

Emma ran through the forest dodging trees and jumping over fallen limbs. Finally, when she couldn't hear the thumping of boots any longer, she leaned against a tree and slid to the ground. She fingered the keychain around her neck absentmindedly.

After four years of running from King William Jones she thought he would've left her alone by now but she was wrong. It seemed like she would be on the run forever. Emma sighed and stood up then she trudged to her makeshift camp which was really just a cave.

She had to relocate soon. The soldiers were getting closer. She began to build a fire, wiping a few tears away.

"Where is she?" William Jones roared at the soldiers. Killian stood beside him, his arms crossed.

One of the soldiers tentaveily spoke up. "W- well sir, we lost her."

King William glared at him and the soldier instantly shut up. "How can five soldiers lose one puny woman?" The soldiers didn't speak. William put his head in his hands. "Get out of my sight."

Only William and Killian were left in the room. William turned to Killian. "You. You will capture her. Go tomorrow by yourself and don't come back unless you have her with you. Understand?"

Killian reached out to put a hand on his father's shoulder but then he thought better of it and crossed his arms again. "Father, can't we just stop this? Can't we let the poor woman be? She's already lost her boyfriend-"

William interrupted him, "Her boyfriend was the bastard that killed your brother; and she helped him! Do you want to let the murderer of your brother go free?"

Killian shook his head, uncrossing his arms. "No, father."

William leaned towards Killian. "You will do as I ask or you'll be in exile with her. Is that clear?"

Killian stared at the floor. He wanted to slap his father so bad but all he said was, "Yes, father."

Emma packed up what little provisions she had and trudged through the forest, desperate to find another home. She held a sword out in front of her, cutting down limbs that got in her way.

She looked up at the sky and cursed. Rain clouds were gathering over the forest and Emma would be soaked if she didn't find a place soon. Luckily she found a dug-out hole in the ground that was about her size.

She crawled in there. It was tight but at least it would be dry. Fatigue overtook her and she closed her eyes, instantly falling asleep. She woke up to the sound of rustling.