Before I start Chapter 5, I am going to describe some characters (if you don't like this feel free to skip ahead. It's not that important, it's just that I realized a while ago that no one knows, except me, of course, how I picture my characters). I will probably do this again later on, because they are going to grow and change a lot. Here it is:
Ceaon: Ceaon has naturally short and Spiky blond hair. He has penetrating ocean blue, (thus his name) eyes, and slightly pointy elfin ears. Ceaon is quite lanky and very skinny. Most of the time, he has small bruises all over his body because of that nasty curse. He is slightly smaller than the average boy's height, but is skilled at using this to his advantage. As a servant, Ceaon wears dirty, once-white pants and shirts during the winter, and shorts and shirt during summer, but never any shoes, which, adding the bruises, makes him looked like he is a hoodlum who fights a lot.
Dammion: Dammion has shoulder-length black hair which is a little wavy, but not extremely messy. His eyes are black, with a hint of brown that you can only see in the light. To anyone but his friends, you would think he was a bully. Dammion is quite tall for his age, and like all other servants he is very thin. Just like Ceaon, Dammion wears the same servant outfit. He isn't very finicky about that fact that he usually isn't clean. Although Dammion looks tough in reality he will save anyone with his gift of healing. Dammion is also a very loyal friend no matter what happens, although he has a very bad temper.
The Bully AKA Sir Jacobe: Jacobe is very violent and hates anyone who is beneath him. He has some muscles but, as he is quite fat, they make him look funny. He has blond hair, cut in the noble rank. Jacobe always wears noble clothes. He is small for his age, but as he is at least three years older than Ceaon, he is still taller than him. Jacobe appears to be the perfect goody-two shoes in the presence of an adult, but he is the opposite of that with his gang, named "Greasers". This character will come up more often in the future.
Judean: Judean is a very happy-go-lucky guy. He is rather lucky, but isn't underfed. He has fairly large muscles due to the fact that he makes elven swords, bows, and arrows. He is a full-blood elf. Because of this, he is shorter than most men, but still just under average height. Judean has short brown hair, and because of his heritage it has natural green stripes. He has warm black eyes that sound out on his face. Judean is very kind but can be very stubborn.
Patricia: Patricia is loving and cheerful by nature. She has light brown, wavy hair. Patricia is always trying to make others smile, and whenever she is joking, her eyes twinkle. She is shorter than her husband and a little plump. Patricia is very loyal to others.
Melissa (or Mel-mel): Melissa has beautiful golden brown wavy hair that is usually kept in a ponytail. She is skinny, but not ridiculously thin. Most people joke that Melissa has the appetite of a bird. Melissa is a very pretty girl with sincere brown eyes. She usually wears Edward's clothes, or her older brother Jason's hand-me-downs. Melissa loves animals, especially Saylius, her unicorn. Although she is quite rich, Melissa looks to be a poor person because of her clothes. Also, Melissa hates wearing shoes and loves going barefoot.
Edward (or Edtwit): Edward has brown hair that is extremely curly and can't be tamed. Edward is quite tall and interested in learning new things. Although sometimes the pressure of being prince is quite frustrating, Edward is kind to others that are in lower positions than he is. He hates when other people get hurt or bullied. Edward also hates feeling helpless and not being able to help others. He abhors fancy outfits and loves to just be normal. If only his life ever could be!
Ella: We know how she looks! (Or do you?) Well then, if you don't know, how about you go read the book… watching the movie is a good idea too, but I don't like it. They changed so much of it!
Sir Rodolf: All I will tell you is that he has black hair and he is very kind…Have fun imagining him!
Jason (or Jay-jay): Jason has shoulder length very dark brown hair. He is quite tall compared to other people his age and is very cheerful. You can tell he is fit and strong by looking at him. Jason has the tendency to act a lot like a father to his younger brother and sister. Although he knows he must become the next king soon, he doesn't, and may never, feel ready.
Char: If you don't know how he looks, again just go read the book.
All the other characters, I deemed not important enough to the story to actually describe. Feel free to make your imagination work. Also, I will describe more characters as they pop up.
Thank you to my reviewers.
On with the story!
Chapter 5
Melissa stepped out the shower ten minutes later, feeling refreshed. Maybe this won't be such a bad night after all. She giggled when she saw that the long mirror behind the sink that had become all foggy. Melissa dropped her towel and grabbed her under-dress for the gown. As she was about to walk out the bathroom, she turned around and put a hand on the mirror. A small handprint appeared and she giggled again. In no time at all, Melissa was on her hands and knees having fun, drawing a fish aquarium in the steam on the mirror.
"Mel-mel, are you done yet? You're not the only person who needs to use the shower!" Melissa jumped off the counter and ran to open the door. Edward had raised his hand again when the door opened and Melissa spoke, "I'm sorry, I was…er… having fun."
Edward walked in the bathroom and raised an eyebrow when he saw her handprints. Melissa blushed and Edward closed the door with a "funny".
Melissa went to her closet and searched for her dress, to her surprise, she couldn't find it. She turned around, frowning. Where was it?
Mandy opened the door with a long box in her hands and smiled at Melissa. "How are you dear?" Melissa nodded and sat on a nearby chair, waiting for Mandy to explain. Mandy handed the box to Melissa and spoke. "Open it. I chose it myself, your old pink dress looked horrible on you."
Melissa slipped the bow off the package and slowly pulled of the lid of the box. She gasped, and pulled out a sleeve-less blood red dress. "It's beautiful, Mandy! Thank you very much."
Mandy's smile widened and she suggested, "How about you try it on?" Melissa touched the silk dress again, before slipping it on as carefully as she could. When she had put it on she looked down, then twirled around. It was very plain, but beautiful. The dress hung down too the bottom of her feet, where it gracefully swirled about.
After the dress passed her inspection, she quickly hugged Mandy, who said, "It looks wonderful on you, dear." Melissa smoothed out her dress, thinking, it looks so pretty. Mandy pulled out a brush and comb and started carefully brushing Melissa's hair. It took a while to finally get all the knots out, and then Mandy twirled Melissa's hair in a bun and added a rose for effect. Melissa wrinkled her nose at the thought of her hair up in a bun, but let Mandy do her work and looked in the mirror.
It took Melissa awhile to formulate any thoughts, I have to admit, my hair looks good.
Mandy nodded and looked back at the box then added, "Good, now for the shoes and the gloves. Can't forget those." Melissa sighed; she would probably have to wear those stupid high heels that would someday be the death of her, and the long white gloves that itched horribly. Mandy smiled knowingly, as she knew that Melissa hated wearing shoes. She signaled Melissa to sit down on the chair as she picked something that was wrapped in a soft blanket. Melissa raised an eyebrow at Mandy, who had a mysterious look in her eyes. Melissa shrugged and pulled on one side of the blanket and, something dropped to the ground. She bent to pick it and to her surprise, she came up with a pair of plain, black ballet shoes. She checked to make sue they weren't the toe shoes, but no, they were the beginner slippers that she was forced to wear every Wednesday at dance class. Melissa looked up, frowning and asked, "Am I supposed to dance for these people?"
Mandy shook her head and answered, "Oh no, those are the shoes you wear to the ball. It is perfectly respectable to wear them, and I got them because I know that you hate those high heels that would, as you say be the death of you."
Melissa blushed, then slipped the pair of ballet shoes on. She wriggled her toes inside the shoes, then looked up and smiled, "Thank you, they are very comfortable. I'm glad you bought them for me." Mandy smiled, then pointed to the rest of the half-opened package. Melissa slipped the other side of the package open. It wasn't as much of a surprise to her this time, but instead of the pointless white gloves that went past her elbows, there were red gloves, and although the pair of gloves were extremely long and red, it wasn't so bad because they had tiny wholes all over them, it was more of a spider web covering her arms. Melissa pulled them on and gently stroked the soft silk, then she turned her arms around and stared some more. They looked so fragile, and although they did warm her up, and when she waved her arms slightly, the air slipped through the holes. "Wow! Where did you find these?" Mandy smiled at Melissa's excitement, "A shop around the corner, a couple miles. I can't remember the name. I'm sorry." Melissa swirled around once more, then jumped as the bathroom door opened.
Edward's mouth dropped as he stared at Melissa for a long minute. Finally he shook his head and asked, "What happened to you?"
Melissa unfroze and mumbled, "You think it looks that bad?"
Edward frowned, then groaned, "No, I meant it looks wonderful on you."
Melissa blushed and lightly punched Edward, "You're just saying that 'cause you're my sister- I mean brother." Edward shook his head, "Of course not, especially if you're my brother. You look wonderful!"
Melissa ignored the brother comment, and bit her lip then looked in the mirror. "I suppose." Edward rolled his eyes and grabbed Melissa by the hand, pulling her towards the door. Mandy waved good-bye to the pair, glad that Melissa had liked the new clothes…
Edward dragged Melissa out the door and around the corner, but frustrated by his rough handling she stepped hard on his toe and he yelped in pain. Melissa crossed her arms and frowned at Edward, then pretending to be angry, lifted her dress up and started running down the stairs towards the Great Hall. Edward rubbed his toe and then gingerly followed Melissa, running as fast as he could on a sore foot. Melissa froze on the first step of the stairs when she saw Ceaon. He was walking slowly and somewhat painfully nearly halfway up the stairs. Ceaon kept his eyes on his feet as he pulled himself up every step, appearing to be quite bruised. Melissa glanced around and found another hall leading to the right; she raced into it and paused where she knew Ceaon couldn't see her. Edward ran past and she grabbed his arm, pulling him in to the thin corridor. Edward automatically reacted to the hand tugging on his wrist; he flipped her hand over and wrestled it against her back. Edward realized whose arm he was twisting his eyes widened and he instantly let go. Melissa had no time to think; she pulled Edward through the closest door, just as Ceaon entered the passageway.
Melissa found herself in a cupboard and she pushed the door open a little, to see Ceaon. Melissa gasped, but Edward slapped his hand over her mouth. What happened to Ceaon? Ceaon had been severely bruised and had several cuts on his face; he was limping slightly and was clutching what appeared to be a broken arm to his chest. Melissa struggled against Edward, wanting only to burst through out of the musty cupboard and scream at Ceaon for doing…whatever he had been doing. Edward sighed dramatically and whispered " I regret getting in this affair, because now my most wonderful and beautiful face has been damaged beyond repair by those long and pointy fingernails you own!"
Melissa ignored Edward and continued clawing at him, while Ceaon continued past the struggling pair, too tired to piece the sounds together, and entered a doorway. Melissa kicked Edward several times before bashing his head against the doors. Edward fell out and Melissa jumped over him, crouched down. She scrambled to get up and looked around wildly, to find that there were millions of doors in the passageway that were all closed…how could she ever find him?
Edward blinked a couple times before whispering loudly to Melissa, "It's a good thing you were wearing those slippers, because high heels would really have damaged me." Melissa slumped down against the wall and put her head in her hands, completely oblivious to Edward who was stumbling around, trying to make his head stop spinning. She then stood up slowly and started walking towards the staircase. Just in case anyone was coming, she peeked around and saw a few guests trickling in.
Edward painfully walked up to her and moaned, "That hurt! Why don't you bash up your own head before you decide to try it on me?"
Melissa raised her hand again, then stopped at the warning look that Edward gave her. "I'm sorry, okay, Edward? It's just that I was feeling angry because Ceaon got hurt and I felt kind of useless. You probably don't get that feeling often, so you won't know how it feels but-" Melissa rambled on for a while before Edward spoke up, "I know perfectly how it feels."
Melissa abruptly stopped and cocked her head, "If you do, then why did you stop me from helping him?" Edward pointed to their clothes and the elaborate, but small, crown that he wore. Melissa opened her mouth then sighed and shrugged, "You're right, I'm sorry, Edward, but I forgot with everything going on."
Edward smiled sadly at Melissa then offered his elbow. "Could I have the pleasure of accompanying you to the ball, my lady?" Melissa rolled her eyes and pulled Edward sharply down the stairs. He paused before the grand doors and pointed to Melissa's head.
She frowned. "What?"
Edward pointed to his crown, then answered, "Where is that crown thing you have to wear?...ugh, I can never remember the stupid name."
Melissa clapped her hands over her mouth. "Oh my gosh! I completely forgot." Melissa picked up her skirts and ran back up the stairs…to bash into Mandy with the beautiful tiara in her hand. Melissa mouthed a thank you because she could hear the music starting in the ballroom below. Mandy smiled and carefully laid the beautiful object on Melissa's head. Melissa raced back down the stairs and smiled at Edward. He smiled encouragingly back and opened the doors an inch, peering through whispered.
Edward looked back at Melissa and whispered softly, "Nearly our turn." Melissa pushed Edward away and took a look; her mother and father were now introducing their heir to the throne.
The doors were pulled open and Edward dragged Melissa out of the way. Jason had appeared behind them and as the doors opened completely, he strode in, giving everyone the impression of a mighty and powerful ruler. Melissa's eyes widened as she looked at her oldest brother. He seems to have changed so much! When Jason reached his mother and father, he bowed, and smiled at the look his father gave him. Jason stood next to his father, head held high. The crowed clapped loudly until Char silenced them. This time, he introduced Melissa and Edward.
Melissa froze on the spot until Edward pulled her through the doors. They were opposites; Melissa was taking small shy steps with her head down, while Edward was marching with long strides, his head greeting guests with nods, the image of his father. Melissa hurried her steps to keep up with Edward and nearly tripped. Edward slowed down and tried not to walk the way he had always been told to. They finally arrived in front of Ella and Char, and Edward bowed. Melissa attempted a curtsy but knew she has messed it up. Luckily for her, the long dress covered up her mistake and she mentally thanked Mandy.
Face flaming, Melissa followed Edward next to Queen Primia's two sons. Melissa sat next to one about her age, while Edward sat next to the oldest. All she could remember that the two boys were named Jim or Jack, or something like that, and the middle child was around 13, a couple months older than Melissa and Edward. The oldest was around 15, a year younger than Jason.
Melissa fought against the temptation to slump in her chair and open her legs like she was wearing pants. The boy next to her raised an eyebrow at her a sign of hello? Melissa wondered as she shrugged and turned away from him. Queen Primia spoke elegantly for the next few minutes then excused everyone to dance.
Melissa hurried Jason and waved at him happily. "Jay-Ja- I mean, Jason, how have you been these past few days? We rarely see you now since you have been training to go fight those horrid ogres."
Jason glared Melissa for nearly letting out his nickname but answered, "I'm sorry that I must be so distant, Melissa, but duty calls." Jason touched her cheek in a "loving" gesture, then marched on her foot and walked towards their parents. Melissa resisted the temptation to jump up and down in pain, but instead hobbled towards her very stupid "royal" chair. Melissa sat in what she hoped was an elegant position while she watched the dull ball in front of her.
One of the princes grabbed her attention. He bowed and spoke softly, "How do you do? My name is Jim. I don't believe we've met."
Melissa nearly rolled her eyes; if he was expecting for her to curtsy and make an even bigger fool of herself, then he was wrong. Instead, she nodded her head curtly and answered, "It's lovely to have made your acquaintance. Now, if you will please excuse me, duty calls." Using the same line as her brother, she painfully stood up and tried to march off. Sadly, she had forgotten to stand on the Prince's foot and he followed her all the way to the food table. She sighed as he arrived, then turned around and snapped, "What do you want now?"
Jim answered hurriedly, "Um…I just want to talk to you." Melissa listened to Jim go on and on and on about his "wonderful" life until she finally cracked. Melissa tuned out the talking and reached for two carrots, she then propped them on her eyes to keep her eyelids open. When she turned around she saw her brother had joined her, only without the carrots. Jim stopped talking when he saw her carrots and seemed to fume inwardly. He gritted his teeth, then giving her a cold glare, he marched off to find someone else to annoy. Melissa and Edward burst out laughing when he left and both carrots fell off.
"That was so funny!" Melissa burst out. Edward grinned down at her and spoke, "How's the ball so far?"
Melissa frowned and answered, "Horrible! How could it be anything else? I'm just glad only the older servants come out to help, and not the younger ones." Edward nodded wisely then picked up some food and stuffed it in his mouth, causing his cheeks to bulge out. Melissa screwed her face in disgust at Edward's disgusting habit. She shoved him roughly and hissed, "You idiot! Queen Primia is watching with her horrible son, Jim."
Edward stuffed another carrot in his mouth before swallowing and turning around with his best manners. Queen Primia dragged Jim towards the table and she opened her mouth. To Melissa's surprise, the Queen addressed her, "Darling, this is my wonderful son Jimmy," BERK "who is going to be spending a lot more time with you."
Jim frowned angrily and Melissa had the strong urge to kick him. It wasn't her fault that this snotty "prince" was being forced to spend time with them because of his stupid mother. Jim snorted out, "Pleasure," in a very stiff voice upon his mothers glare at him.
The lot walked off and Edward spoke softly, "Soon she'll be Marring her son off to you Mel-Mel."
Melissa pulled a face then answered back, "Ugh… I will not think about that and fully enjoy my three beautiful years of peace, if you don't mind. Don't forget about that snobby idiot Elizabeth, who you are 'entitled' to."
Edward shrugged and paled when he saw his father motion for him to come. He turned to Melissa and hurriedly spoke, "Dad wants me! I think it's about the 'growing up' ceremony. This is great! I might finally be able to start fighting evil monsters. Yes!" Edward, with an enormous smile on his face, strode over to his father.
Melissa gave a small smile to Edward's back, then gazed at the people around her. She sighed as she observed the happy people around her. Why was she always doomed to extreme boredom when it came to these stupid events? Melissa sighed again. A tall gentleman was heading her way and Melissa sarcastically battled with herself, should she hide under the table? Or stand here and curse Edward for leaving her at the hands of, well, boys, as she liked to refer to them.
Melissa froze unhappily as he came up to her and bowed. "Would my lady care for a dance?" Melissa narrowed her eyes; the man in front of her had changed in her mind, from a gentleman to a pompous, stupid, ugly brat. And only because he had pressed on the "my". He had made it sound as if she had had the audacity to refuse, she wouldn't like what came next. "Well?" The man brought Melissa out of her thoughts.
She erased her face of any emotion and politely (only because she had a family honor to uphold) spoke with a sugar-coated voice, "Oh, I'm sorry for the delay. I would love to dance with such an esteemed gentleman." The man smirked when she stifly curtsied. Melissa, once again, was extremely glad that she had such a long gown. The man held out a hand and Melissa carefully gave him her hand –more like her life-. Melissa shivered when she came in contact with the man. He smirked again, "Cold?"
Melissa lied quickly, "Yes. It is quite chilly this late at night." She smiled nervously at him as they started the dance. Melissa concentrated on her steps remembering the high-pitched voice that belonged to her wonderful dance teacher.
Step lightly, Melissa
NO! Dance as if you were a flower, not an elephant
Light feet, girl
I have little patience for you, it seems
Count like so: One, two, three, one, two, and three
Step forward…right and left
Melissa smiled; she had successfully been able to avoid stepping on the man's feet the entire time.
"Why do you stare at your slippers so?" Melissa jumped and flicked her head up. The man was staring at her accusingly. She met his eyes; they were cruel and icy blue.
"I'm sorry…" Melissa was abruptly cut off; those eyes seemed to be burning a hole through her head. The man nodded and let her go abruptly when the song ended. Melissa shook herself before practically running back to the food table where she filled her plate with anything reachable, just to look like she was occupied.
Melissa sat down at one of the two people tables and gazed at the enchanting building. A, quite easy to miss door grabbed her attention; it was quite small and covered by a couple decorations. At that moment it opened slowly and a girl with hip-length brown hair crawled through. The girl, Melissa was sure, was not of the palace staff or a servant. Not even a noble. This girl seemed like a thief. It was the only word Melissa could possibly use to describe her. The person had dark, loose pants and expensive leather boots. Her shirt was black and long sleeved. The things that yelled thief at Melissa was that she had, apart from the boots, an expensive-looking bracelet and necklace that no commoner would own. Also she was crouching, obviously trying not to attract any attention, and holding a short, but dangerous-looking knife in her hand. Melissa gasped and brought her hand over her mouth.
The thief was searching the crowd for someone, it appeared she was disappointed or angry because she quietly closed the odd door and left the way she had come. Melissa threw a glance over her shoulder to make sure no one was staring at her before standing up and walking quickly towards the odd door. When she reached it, she looked around again before opening the door and slipping inside.
--- --- --- --- --- ---
Edward uncertainly treaded towards his father. What did his father want? Was it really about the growing up ceremony? How should he act around the people near his father…casual, polite, like a king, or…although he had never truly let this side out with nobles, himself? Before any more thinking could be done Edward saw himself bow politely to the guests. Then, to his surprise, he started to talk about matters of the palace.
Edward spoke politely until his father interrupted him, "Gentlemen, I would like to start discussing the matters of the Elbano for my son and daughter." Edward searched his head for what the word Elbano. He knew he had heard it before. What would involve him and Melissa? "…Well, Edward. We need your opinion and Melissa's on this, but when would you like your ceremony to take place?"
Edward looked at his father and blinked, "Pardon me?"
Char sighed and explained to Edward, "Your Elbano. The 'growing-up' ritual." Char looked at the other men then continued, "I will of course have Edward's ceremony before Melissa's as he must finish his training for the knighthood after the party, while Melissa must only go to the finishing school."
Edward blinked again, then quickly answered, "The ceremony should take place directly after this voyage, so there will be enough time for my sister and I to prepare for the coming training." Char nodded proudly and shooed Edward away as he continued to talk to the other nobles around him.
Edward retreated quietly to a table where he set his hands on his chin and thought sadly, I can't wait for the Elbano to happen, but I never knew Melissa would be forced to go to finishing school! Edward blamed his stupid royal mouth, how could he have even thought of having his Elbano as soon as possible? Now he would loose Melissa for four long years.
Edward stood up sadly and walked to the balcony. Melissa will skin me alive… He sat in the corner of the platform and looked at the glittering moon. Shining without any other care in the world. Edward frowned at the people near the lake, how could anyone with this life be so happy? He knew millions of homeless children or poor farmers would die for a position like this, but did they know the real truth? Edward smiled bitterly; no matter what happened at least he had Melissa. Or, in a few months, Melissa's letters…
--- --- --- ---
As soon as the door closed behind Melissa, she was surrounded by darkness. She waited for a couple minutes until her eyes adjusted and scanned the room. She had managed find herself, in what looked like a wine cellar. Melissa slowly walked down the stairs, with her hands feeling the way around her. Melissa crouched down at the bottom of the stairs as she saw the thief exit through another door.
Making sure not to make any sound, Melissa tiptoed to the door, which had been left open and put her head near the passage. She frowned when she couldn't hear anything and instead squinted into the passage. Nothing, the thief had either run extremely fast or disappeared. Melissa took a couple steps through the tunnel-like area. The smell of wet dirt all around her warned her that this tunnel was not leading anywhere near the castle, but probably to the nearby village that she hadn't had enough time to explore yet. Melissa heard what she thought sounded like some footsteps that where extremely far away, so she hurried her pace walking, unknown to her, louder and louder….
Melissa had been walking for a long time, in the same haunting passage, when she tripped over something on the ground. Melissa heard her crown fall off and she crawled around to find it. When her fingers touched the cold metal, she slipped the crown into a pocket that was cleverly hidden near the back of her gown.
Melissa had lost the sound of any footsteps and she had been traveling in the tunnel for a long time, when some light up ahead grabbed her attention. Melissa nearly sang with joy, as she had never really liked enclosed places; she raced forward and flew out of the tunnel glad to breathe fresh air.
But not for long…a figure jumped on her and tackled her to the ground. Melissa started struggling and successfully bit the hand of the person who was constricting her. A few well-placed kicks and jabs, which hurt since she had a ring on, and the person's hands loosened around her waist. Without looking back, Melissa kicked the person again and starting running as fast as she could.
Out of the tunnel she had landed into an area surrounded with tall trees and bushes. Melissa ran for what she feared was her life and when she tripped she was not surprised to have too little breath to get back up again. A little rest recovering won't hurt me; after all I can't hear anyone chasing after me. That was where she made her first mistake.
Melissa knew she had no hope to get away when a fit looking boy who looked older popped out from behind her. Melissa's eyes widened, but unlike the ladies who were weak and had no idea what to do, Melissa had always loved to train alongside her brothers. Melissa crawled back a little then pushed herself up, only to fall back down again; she had twisted her ankle. The person in front of her grinned at her weakness then leaned against a tree, knowing well enough that she was powerless. "What do we find here? A beautiful girl in distress. Now what should I do?"
The teen approached her and crouched in front of her, an arrogant grin plastered on his face. Melissa, thinking quickly, jumped on him and punched him twice. Before Melissa could do anything else, she was pushed against the tree and the person was growling angrily. Apparently, he didn't like being hit by a girl. "What are you doing here?" She could see that the person was trying hard not to punch her. Melissa narrowed her eyes and tried to knee him. He jumped out of the way then frowned at her, "Avoiding my questions, are you?" he quickly caught Melissa's third attack and held her wrists tightly together with one hand. Melissa shouted angrily, "Stop!" As he pushed her forward and she tripped because of her very sore ankle. The boy grinned and pulled her up easily before pushing her forward again. As they walked, (Melissa had given up fighting him) Melissa thought of why he had been so easy to punch at first. It was surprise that caught him of guard…of course! He would probably fall for it again; she just needed the opportune moment.
The boy bent down and studied a pile of stones; Melissa dashed into the brush to the right of her and started running as fast as she could, ignoring the angry jolts of pain in her leg. Why is this always the way that I can get away? Melissa couldn't hear any footsteps behind her, but could see, out of the corner of her eye, the teen running speedily towards her. She looked back again and, for the third time this evening, she tripped.
When the person reached her, he grinned eerily and this time hauled her over his shoulder. Melissa screamed angrily. How could he just pick her up like that? She must have more forces to fight this…BOY. Melissa kept on screaming for a while before she realized that there really was no hope with this stupid person holding her. She continued kneeing the teen, until finally he switched her to his other shoulder. Melissa grinned; her technique was working. Sadly for her, he refused to let her walk and bore with the pain.
The walk took a long time and Melissa dozed off near the end, to be awakened quite brutally when the teen dropped her on the ground. Melissa sat up slowly and looked around; she now found herself in a tiny room with only a small lamp and a blanket on the ground. Melissa moved further away from the teen, who was watching her every movements before starting to question her, "Why are you around here?"
Melissa narrowed her eyes and spoke coldly, "If you had forgotten, you kidnapped me and put me here!" He rolled his eyes, then asked several more questions which she avoided entirely.
"Who are you?"
"Who are you?"
"Why were you following me and my sister in that tunnel?"
"Why should I answer these pointless questions when I want to know why you have taken me here."
"Answer me!"
"Yes, please do."
Finally, the teen stood up and started pacing, muttering to himself. "Definitely isn't a spy. But what is she doing here? Does she know about us?" he snuck a glance at Melissa, then spoke loudly to her, "So, you don't want to talk? Things are moving right along now." He stared at her again, then pulled out a long, gleaming knife from his pocket. Melissa gasped as she saw the long knife being passed in front of her. The teen's eyes sparked and he spoke again, "I suppose you are willing to answer my questions now. Let's start again.
"Who are you?"
Melissa gaped at the person in front of her, but answered quickly, still eying the knife warily, "I'm a noble at the castle."
He nodded slowly and drawled out, "Why were you following my sister in that tunnel?"
"I-I was curious about why a thief was in the castle."
"Guessed?"
Melissa nodded slowly and waited for his next question
"Do you have anything of value on you?"
Melissa blanched, remembering the crown in her pocket then shook her head fervently
He stepped forward and spoke, "Oh I'm sure you do. No, lying little lady."
Melissa shook her head quickly again then spoke quickly, "Why would I carry anything of importance to a ball?" The person in front of her advanced and Melissa pressed herself against the wall.
–BANG- The door slammed open and a very battered looking Edward was seen captured by the other thief who Melissa had first seen.
"EDWARD! What are you doing here?" Edward struggled against the girl holding him, but was pushed next to Melissa on the ground, where he quickly explained, "I followed you and then I was practically beaten to death by that girl."
Melissa sighed at his stupidness. "But, I escaped her fine?" Edward's jaw fell open and he whispered quietly after thinking hard, "She never expected you to be able to fight back." Melissa nodded then turned her attention back to the thieves and tried to understand what they where saying, the boy spoke, "Found anything at the castle, Butterfingers?"
"Not a thing, appears the spies haven't broke the outside forces, what about you, Springer? Found anything about those two?"
Springer frowned at Melissa, then turned to Butterfingers, "It was hard but I found out she was curious about you, she is a low-ranked noble, and she doesn't appear to have anything of value on her. Wait, now I know they are related"
Butterfingers tutted at Springer and waggled her finger. She approached Edward and grabbed his crown, "You call this nothing?" Springer gasped looking at the engraving of the crown. "To my son, Prince Edward." Butterfingers glared at Springer and whispered, "Now what?"Melissa groaned; the game was over, what are they going to do with us now? Hold us for ransom? Oh no.
Edward stood up slowly and despite the fact he was injured, gave the picture of a true king, "That is correct. Now you see the enormous mistake you have conjured. Not only are we royal, but you are going to be fried meat." Springer advanced on Edward, but Melissa could see he completely agreed with the prince. Butterfingers stopped Springer and spoke to Edward, "What could make you so sure?" Edward threw back his head and laughed at her.
Melissa bit her lip, then stood up. The attention of the room was switched on to her. Melissa leaned against the wall because of her foot, but tried to speak loudly, "Number one, we are royal. Number two, there are tracking devices-"…or so she hoped-, "Number three, do you really not think that entire armies will be ransacking your neighborhood and shall I say briefly hurting the other thieves or some friends?"
Butterfingers turned her anger on Springer. She slapped him incredibly hard, then hit her head several times against the wall. Springer watched her until she had calmed down and said, "Feeling better?"
Butterfingers turned back to Springer and yelled, "Why the heck did you bring the girl here, didn't you realize she would be missed?"
But Springer stood his ground and yelled back, "I had no idea she was a Princess-" Butterfingers opened her mouth, but Springer continued, "Let me explain, she had no crown, was covered in dirt, speaks just like us, and can fight better then most girls. So shut it." Butterfingers sighed and turned her head towards Edward, who was sitting perfectly straight and waiting for an answer.
Melissa was glaring at Springer and demanded, "Let us go-" Butterfingers snorted, "So that you can spread the news about us?" Melissa shook her head and continued, "Let us go and we will promise to keep you a secret, but you must tell us why you were at the castle." Springer turned to Butterfingers and shrugged as an answer, Springer nodded. Butterfingers turned around and sat cross-legged in front of Edward, while Springer sat lazily in front of Melissa, who moved closer to Edward; she wasn't letting the thief anywhere near her.
Butterfingers put out her hand and spoke softly, "Er…Sylvia, 13 in a month, nice to meet you, I'm also called Butterfingers." Edward shook her hand warmly, and Melissa shook it, too.
Springer put out his hand to Edward and drawled, "James, 15, also called Springer." Edward shook his hand, but when Melissa reached her hand out, he held her hand as if to kiss it. Melissa pulled back and glared at James.
Edward rolled his eyes, then put out his hand, "Prince Edward, 13 in exactly 9 days." Melissa spoke up while they were shaking hands, "Also called Edtwit." Sylvia giggled and shook Edward's hand.
Melissa put out her hand to Sylvia and spoke, "P-Princess Melissa, 13 in 9 days, also called Mel-mel." She stuck her tongue out at Edward and shook Sylvia's hand. Instead of shaking James's hand, she drew back, keeping her hands on her lap.
"Still wary of me, are you?"
Edward shook his head. "Na, I think it's more that you remind her of her court manners." Sylvia looked at Edward curiously, "And you?"
Edward grinned, "I don't at all feel like the prince here!" Melissa turned her head to look at Edward, why is he so willing to completely throw away his status and join the other side? Melissa cleared her thoughts and looked at Sylvia, "So, about the castle entry?"
Sylvia answered slowly, "Well, we entered with our friends to check on the castle every once in a while, because according to the patrolling guards closer west, the castle is in danger of being attacked by the west people."
Melissa's eyes rounded and she choked out, "No." Sylvia nodded. Edward exclaimed, "Is there anything I can do to help?" Melissa turned to Edward and gasped, "Edward!"
Edward turned to Melissa and spoke, "I want to help them." Melissa glared at Edward, but turned her head to Sylvia, who was whispering hurriedly to James.
James turned back to Edward and spoke, "At the moment you could…tell us if anything weird is going on in the castle, any new guests. Anything at all."
Edward nodded and asked, "But how do I tell you?"
"We would meet you at the entrance of the tunnel every week." Melissa frowned. He shouldn't be doing this. He really shouldn't be doing this. This is incredibly wrong. Edward grinned, "Now, how will we ever get home?" James signaled with his hand to follow him and they all stood up. Melissa grabbed Edward's hand and leaned on him and Sylvia as they walked slowly through the small underground home. Melissa was immensely glad that they had finally found the outside when they reached a clearing. James walked them to stalls and Melissa gasped, before whispering to Sylvia, "You own horses?"
"Stolen." Melissa nodded and followed James into the stables. She could smell the horses and they filled her mind with comfort, this world she understood, full of kindness. There were about seven horses all lined up. Melissa eyed them-, they all looked fit and well-fed. James saddled a black horse, Edward a yellow one, and Sylvia a white horse. Melissa whistled loudly and, ignoring the curious stares of Sylvia, she sat on a pole, stroking Edward's horse.
When James finished he turned to her, "Well, you can't saddle a horse, then. Do you want some help or are you going to sit there all night?"
Melissa glared at James and spoke, "I'll be fine, thank you." James raised an eyebrow, but quickly ran to the door when he heard a neigh. Melissa slowly stumbled outside and grinned happily when she saw her unicorn, Saylius.
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I got carried away with this chapter!
Thank you reviewers:
Dramagirl100: I wish I could type faster, these ideas are bursting in my mind
Ladybugg998: Thank you!
Kittycutie: Thank you so much for your help to the story, you helped me a lot
Overloaded: Also, thank you for your help too, I need all the help I can get