Intricate Beginnings

D.J. Fugate

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I would like to think my High School English teacher for always believing in me.  I’d also like to give

thanks to my husband who has always been there for me, and also to my family that has always stood

by me when I was at my lowest.

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 “Loving in truth, and fain in verse my love to show,

That she, dear she, might take some pleasure of my pain, --

Pleasure might cause her read, reading might make her know,

Knowledge might pity win, and pity grace obtain;

I sought fit words to paint the blackest face of woe,

Studying inventions fine, her wits to entertain:

Oft turning others’ leaves, to see if thence would flow

Some fresh and fruitful showers upon my sun-burn’d brain

But words come halting forth, wanting Invention’s stay.

Invention, Nature’s child, fled step-dame Study’s blows,

And others’ feet still seem’d but strangers in my way.

Thus, great with child to speak, and helpless in my throes,

Biting my truant pen, beating myself for spite—

“Fool,” said my Muse to me, “look in thy heart and write.””

• Sir. Philip Sidney

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Introduction:

In the kingdom of Wolfvain, at the heart of the capital, there is a beautiful stone castle.   The
year is 1493, the season of the harvest, in the year of the Great Goddess Sauriel. In the tall grand
castle, King Edwin, his wife, Queen Lillian and their twin children lived lavishly.  All four beings made
up the entirety of the royal family. They lived in style and contentment until today, when the twins
turned eighteen.
On this fateful day, Prince Joshua was given many wondrous gifts including a new black
stallion and the great honor of being chosen as heir to the Wolfvainian throne.  Thus, Princess Arianna;
stunned at this news, asked her parents what was to become of her. Sighing sadly, her mother explains
that it is now Joshua's job to marry her off to whomever he desires to choose.  While on the verge of
tears, Arianna curtsies politely to her parents and excuses herself out of the throne room. Arianna
walks calmly but briskly, as the tears fall down upon her cheeks, she makes her way up the stairs to her
bedchamber. . .

4
 ( I )

Upon the rising of the sun, Arianna wakes from her restless sleep.  Birds sing in the trees as she
stretches her sore and aching muscles.  She rises from her bed and glides to her dresser's mirror. Upon
seeing her reflection, she frowns at the sight of red skin around silvery-gray eyes.  She sighs before
making her way to her washing room, where servants have already prepared her tub with water from
the spiritual hot spring in the castle gardens.

As she steps into the steamy tub, Arianna recalls the Wolfvainian legend about the hot spring.
As she soaks she begins to softly retell the legend, "Long Long ago she came down from the heaven.
The first queen arose and came to the spring where Heaven met the Earth. The Great Goddess smiled
and beckoned her to come forth. Before the Queen's eyes the Great Goddess purified the spring. The
Queen was then invited to wade and bathe in the spring, which then purified the Royal Family.  From
then on the spring was always guarded by the highest ranked knights in the Wolfvainian army."
She continues to soak in the bath awhile, easing the aches and pains from her stress yesterday. 
She also allows her thoughts to escape her mind. She mentally rids herself of any negative thoughts she
has ever thought about her brother.
When her bath is done, she grabs a piece of linen cloth and dries herself off.  Making sure she
gets every water drop possible, she then wraps her cloth around herself.
She walks through her bedroom towards her closet, and begins to glance through her dresses. 
After several minutes pass, she chose a teal light dress. With the help of one of her servants, she grabs
her favorite tiara, and heads downstairs.

******

Prince Joshua (also known as Josh) was pacing back and forth in the castle library.  The newly-
born thoughts of how was now the heir to the throne were racing through his mind.  He is excited at the
fact that he will not be treated on the same level as his sister. He finally will be treated with higher

5
respect, admiration, appreciation, and dignity.  He was now to become king, if something happens to
his father.
As he paces around, muttering his thoughts to himself, he doesn't notice that someone was
indeed watching him.  Watching silently and intently, this person hops off its bookshelf perch and lands
on the floor in front of him.
"Whom . . . are you?!" Josh asks startlingly.
"I happen to be . . . your worst nightmare. . . “The person clad in dark navy blue cloth says in a
muffled feminine voice.
"How did you get in here?!" he questions authoritatively.
"Shh. . .” she says holding a finger to her cloth covered lips.
In an instant moment, she back-flips and quickly disappears into the darkness.
The encounter stuns Josh beyond belief, standing there in complete and utter confusion.  As he
stands there, a smoke cloud erupts from nowhere revealing a young man dressed in black, with jet
black hair.  Within seconds, the man was instantly behind Josh, pressing two swords against Josh's
neck.
"You will answer my question if you want to see the light of another day!" the dark man
threatens, pulling the swords tighter against Josh's throat.
"If I know the answer you seek, I shall tell you," Josh stutters, swallowing in fear.
"Have you encountered a woman dressed in dark navy blue attire?" the masked man asks
seriously but impatiently.
"No. . . I am sorry to disappoint, but I have not encountered the person, whom you seek. . .
“Josh lies with a perfect straight face.
"Damn it, I have lost her again!"
Stepping back, the man throws a ball of some sort.  It erupts another cloud of smoke. He
glances at Josh once more, before walking and disappearing into the smoke.  Mystified and confused,
Josh stands there in a daze.

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 (II)

Several days later, Josh's father calls him into his private chambers.  Josh, whom was really
nervous, knocks upon the doors before entering. His father was on his balcony overlooking his
beautiful beloved kingdom.     
"You have summoned me father?" Josh asks softly.
"Yes my son . . .” his father says as he turns around and motions with his hand for Josh to have
a seat upon the bed.
Josh slowly, but steadily walks over and sits himself down upon his father's bed.
"My son . . . in two days’ time, you shall pick a woman to be your bride and you two shall be
wed, and this happens, you shall take over as ruler of our beloved kingdom," his father says seriously
as he lays his hands upon his son's shoulders.
"But father . . . you are still alive and healthy!"
"Well my son, I am getting very old, and have been slowly suffering, slowly my strength
withers, I need you to be my one true son to guide and rule this kingdom," his father admits, looking
into his son's eyes.  "So you have two days’ time, to find yourself a bride, I suggest you start at once!"
Exhaling, Josh replies, "Yes father, I shall find the most perfect woman, to make the most
perfect queen."
Before leaving, Josh's mother enters the chamber.
"Josh, please be kind and well to your sister," she begs her son.  "I didn't raise her for eighteen
years to have a difficult life."
"Yes, my mother, I shall try my best," Josh says reassuringly to her.
"There is my son!  I know you'll make your father and me so proud!"  His mother announces
hugging Josh tightly as she starts to cry happy tears.
"Alright mother, I have to get a move on, If I am to find the perfect woman to become our
future queen,” Josh says as his mother slowly lets go of him, as he stands up and leaves the room.

*****

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 The ballroom was suspiciously silent, not saying it ever wasn't.  The large chandeliers hung
high upon the ceilings. No one could have ever noticed the ninja hiding in the largest chandelier.  
An eruption of smoke came from the middle of the ballroom.  Out of the smoke, arrived the
assassin from earlier. 
"Maria! Come out, come out wherever you are!"  The assassin calls out hoarsely.
The ninja, who is an expert at many things, makes her voice appear as if she is on the other side
of the room, “No James . . . because if I do you'll die or at least be defeated!"
"Show me how good your ninja skills are!" James says provoking her.
"Fine, but don't say I didn't warn you!"  She says as she back flips off the ceiling and onto the
floor.
"So you decide to fight?"  He asks preparing his swords for battle.
Before James could strike, Maria back-flips and throws a ninja star at him.  James dodges the
attack by a centimeter, before he swings his dagger making a large gash upon her right shoulder. 
Though this does not stop her from attacking again. She throws another ninja star at him. This time the
ninja star wedges itself into James' chest.  
Josh walks into the ballroom to see the assassin screaming in agony and the ninja on the floor
holding her bloody shoulder.  He runs past the assassin and kneels before the ninja.
"Miss are you okay?" he asks her anxiously.
"Yes . . . I am fine," she says wincing in pain.
"Are you sure?  I can get my sister to heal you!" he asks reassuringly.
"What about me?" the assassin whines.
"Who cares about you? So stop crying like a little baby!"  Josh exclaims before returning his
attention back to the ninja.
"You may have your sister heal me," she states softly before falling limp and unconscious.
Josh quickly put his royal cape under her head, as Arianna glides into the ballroom.
"Brother, I was looking for you . . . What happens here?!"  Arianna asks before rushing to the
ninja's side.
"They were engaged in a battle of sorts, could you please lend me your healing powers, Ari?" he
asked pleadingly.
"I shall try my best,” Arianna says putting her hand over the wound.  "It will take a moment . . .
but she will be fine in no time . . .”

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 As Arianna began to heal the ninja, Josh removes the material around the ninja's head.
"Just as I imagined . . . She is beautiful . . .” Josh says taking in the ninja's beauty.
"Yes she is," Arianna agrees before finishing up her healing.
"She's the one . . ."
"What do you mean by 'the one'?"
"In two days’ time, I will be king, but I need a bride to rule beside me as queen."
"And I'm guessing you desire this woman here?" she asks.
"Yes . . . I desire her with a passion only a man would know,” he says caressing the side of the
ninja's face.
"But you two have only just met!"
"It's desperate times right now, and plus we have a lifetime to get to know one another . . ."
"That is true . . . but what if she rejects you?!" Arianna argues right before the ninja begins to
regain consciousness. "I'll go heal the assassin, so you two can speak more privately.
As Arianna glides over to the assassin and starts to heal him, Josh brings the subject of marriage
to the ninja.
"What is your name beautiful?"  He asks her.
"My name is Maria."
"Maria will you make me the happiest man alive?"
"What . . . What do you mean?"
The prince kneels down on one knee.
"Will you marry me?"
"Whoa there sir . . . aren't we rushing things?"
"No . . . you see my coronation is in just mere hours and I am required to be wed-fully married
so this country has their queen!" he exclaims as he takes a hold of her hand.  "We can take things slow
at first we have an entire lifetime to learn about one another . . .”
"Still . . . I don't exactly feel that tying myself down is the rightful path for my duties as a highly
skilled ninja master . . .” she mumbles hesitantly.
"Please! You must!!" he begs on both knees.
While exhaling she answers, "Fine, but everything will move on my terms and pace."
"Alright that seems like agreeable terms, I shall respect that . . .”
"Well you better . . .”

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 (III)

The castle guards' blew their trumpets merrily, signaling the royal wedding was today. 
Although Maria had a couple day of situating into the royal life, she is still nervous as ever.
The wedding ceremony was to be held in the throne room of the castle.  All of Wolfvain had
been invited to attend. Maria and Josh had been separated into rooms on different sides of the castle,
therefore there was no excuse for either to bump into each other before the wedding.
Maria was staring at her reflection in Arianna's mirror.  She wrinkled her nose in disgust at the
enormous frilly white ball gown, before turning to look at her now good friend and future sister.
"Are you sure that I have to wear something so . . . huge?"  Maria asks in a tone of annoyance.
Arianna smiles and replies, "Yes, it's Wolfvainian custom!"
"That will be the first thing I change as Queen," she exclaims excitedly.
*****
Prince Josh is being helped into his attire by his best friend, best man, and favorite knight, Sir.
Justin. 
"So . . .  my sister Arianna is eligible for marriage, are you interested my friend?"  Josh asks
sincerely.
"Well umm . . . how do I say this? . . . Your majesty, your sister is a nice, beautiful, and
charming young lady, but I have my eyes on another woman . . .  I am truly sorry . . . “Justin explains
softly.
"It is no problem my friend, but you will help me find her a suitor?"  Josh asks.
"You do not need to ask sire, I'll help you no matter the distance or hardship," Justin bows to
him.
"No need to bow my friend . . . the search for a suitor begins tomorrow . . . so don't have too
much of a good time tonight . . . " Josh replies smiling before checking his attire.
"Yes sire . . .” Justin replies before following Josh out of the room towards the throne room.
*****
"It's about time to leave, are you ready?" Arianna asks Maria.
"As ready as I'll ever be . . .” Maria says knowing that she is basically signing her life as a ninja
away.

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 As Maria says this Justin walks into the room.  He stops in front of her and bows in respect.
"This is my brother and I's favorite knight, Sir. Justin," Arianna introduces to her.  "He'll be
walking you down the aisle."
Maria walks around Justin surveying him, locating all of his strengths and weaknesses, in case
of an emergency.  She finally stops in front of him before curtsying politely.
"I am very pleased to meet you Milady,” Justin says as he takes her by the hand and kisses it
gently.
At the brush of his lips on her hand, she blushed a soft shade of pink.
"I am sorry to interrupt this sweet moment, but we must leave if we want to arrive on time,”
Arianna says softly before leading the way out of the room.
Justin smiled charmingly at Maria, before lending her his arm.
"Let's go Milady," Justin says as Maria nods and intertwines her arm in his.
****
The throne room doors open as Arianna slowly glides down the aisle-way towards Josh and the
High Priestess.  She throws purple orchids to the kingdom's subjects. As she makes it to the left side of
the High Priestess, Justin begins to slowly walk Maria down the aisle-way.  When they reach the end of
the pathway, Justin bows and kisses Maria's hand before handing it to Josh, before joining Arianna on
the other side of the High Priestess.
The ceremony begins as Josh leads Maria up to the high priestess.  The high priestess closes her
eyes and allows herself to be taken over by her dear and divine mother, the Great Goddess Sauriel. 
When the possession is secure the high priestess' eyes open to reveal that the color had changed from
blue to red.
"My wonderful, beautiful, and most devoted subjects we are gathered here in my presence to
bring together a pure member of the royal family with a devoted mistress of the ninja arts.  It pleases
me to see such a union to carry on my teachings to the next generation," the goddess says to her people
through the high priestess.
Maria steps back a tiny bit in surprise, as she never knew that the goddess actually was present
when royal family members were married.
"My devoted Maria, do you take my pure child Prince Joshua to be your partner in life and do
you promise to cherish, love, and devote yourself to him through my teachings?" the goddess questions
Maria turning her head towards her.

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 Maria lowers her gaze and softly says, "I do promise to do so. . .”
Sauriel then turns to Joshua smiling down upon him.  She glides to him putting her forehead
against his and putting her hands on each side of his head.
"My dear and sweet pure child, Prince Joshua . . . do you promise to treat Maria as if she was
goddess herself?  Will you take her as your partner in life, and as your soul companion through the rest
of this lifetime?" she asks excitedly.
"In your divine name, I promise to do so. . ." Josh states before the goddess kisses his forehead.
Sauriel steps back and closes her eyes before stating, “By my divine power, I hereby unite these
two of my children as souls for life, you may complete this union by sealing it with a kiss."
As Maria and Joshua slowly touch lips together, a divine golden light flows from her to the
couple and surrounds them, eliciting 'awes' from the royal subjects.

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 (IV)

The horses shook their heads and pawed at the ground.  Their leather tack's bells jingled with
their movements.  Both white carriages were decked with purple orchids and Tiger Lillis’. Josh and
Maria sat down together in the first, while Justin and Arianna climbed into the second carriage. 
In the first carriage, Josh and Maria sit silently.  The air of no speaking was killing Josh inside.  
Maria breaks the silence by muttering "I guess that love truly doesn't exist. . ."
Josh looks over at her and grabs her hand.
"I think that love does exist, but it's too early for us to feel it!" Josh exclaims.
"Maybe. . ."
"Just trust me. . . "
In the second carriage Justin and Arianna sat across from each other.
"So . . . umm. . ." Justin says breaking the silence.
"Yes?"
"Tomorrow your brother and I are going to search for a respectable and honorable man to be
your husband."
"Oh . . . that's good I guess," she said leaning against the side of the carriage.
"I was wondering . . . what you were looking for in a husband . . .?”
"Well . . . umm. . ."
"Yes?"
Arianna looks over at Justin and places her hand lightly on his cheek and looks into his eyes.
"Whatever you think is best for me."
Arianna begins to lean closer to Justin, but he stops her in the moment by saying "I will try my
best, princess."
She sighs softly in disappointment, while looking back out the window, though a few moments
later she clasps her arms around his neck and hugs him in a tight embrace.  She stays that way for a
couple of minutes until letting him go when the carriage stops.
Justin steps out first and helps Arianna down out of the carriage, acting as nothing even
happened between them.  As they step out, a beautiful blonde maiden walks by heading towards the
vagrants.

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 "Fuck!" Justin mutters punching the side of the carriage.
"Are you alright, Sir. Justin?"
“Not really . . .”
“What’s wrong?”
“The girl of my dreams just saw us,” he says softly.
“But we’re not together . . .”
“She doesn’t know that.”
“Well . . . tell her if she doesn’t believe you, she can ask for me immediately and I’ll set things
straight!”
“Thank you very much, Princess!” Justin said before bowing before her formally.
Arianna closed her eyes slowly and sighs softly, “I really hate when you call me that…”
*****
Josh helps Maria out of the carriage and walks her in the palace to his room.
“Since my clothes are fine, I’ll give you some time to change into something simpler, and able
to breathe in,” he says.
“Thank you sire . . .” she says while curtsying.
“We are equals, there’s no need to curtsy,” he says smiling.
“Ok . . .”
“The only time you need to wear Royal clothes is if we go out of the Palace or you came to sit
with me at conferences or anything gin that matter so feel free to wear whatever you want.”
“Umm . . . okay . . .”
“There is a new selection of summer dresses and popular ladies apparel in that closet on the
right, all my stuff is on the left.”
“Alright.”
“I hope you like them,” he says before locking and closing the door to give her privacy and
starts to kick up the party that is to start downstairs.
“Hmm . . . let’s see what clothes do we have here?” Maria asks herself before glancing in the
closet.
“ . . . Oh my goddess . . .”
Everything on her side of the closet is of the color navy blue.

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“I’m in love with my wardrobe . . .”

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 (V)
The wedding feast was huge and extravagant and everyone had a good time that night. Though
both Joshua and Justin knew they had a big journey ahead of them tomorrow.
As the sun rose the next morning, Joshua and Justin ate, packed and were about to leave when
Queen Maria and Princess Arianna came to bid them farewell.
“I will miss you, I hope you are successful!” Arianna says before hugging her brother.
“We’ll be back soon, safe, and sound . . .” Joshua says hugging her and letting go.
“Be careful Justin . . .” Arianna says before walking towards him to hug him with tears on the
verge of falling.
“I will, I promise,” Justin replies bowing before she can get closer, and hug him, leaving her
with a miserable expression causing her to run back into the Palace
“Be well and take care of my kingdom while I’m gone, my beautiful Maria . . .” Joshua says
before hugging her tightly against him.
“I’ll try my best . . .” she says before turning her attention to Justin.
“Rule our kingdom well, my queen!” Justin says while bowing and kissing Maria’s hand.
Maria nods as both men jump up on their horses saying farewell as they ride off into the
horizon.
*****
It is quiet throughout the Palace making it the complete opposite of what Maria first saw it to
be. Since Joshua is gone she has conferences to attend but she still has an hour before the first one this
morning. So she decides she’ll spend most of her hour in the royal gardens with Arianna.
“I find it so peaceful here, it’s where I come to get out of the Palace,” Arianna whispers softly
still sad from earlier.
“It is pretty, though I’ve seen more enchanting places,” Maria states.
“This is one of the last times I’ll spend in here . . .” Arianna mentions quietly the sadness
ringing in her voice.
“ . . . Memories? . . .”
“When I was a little girl, Joshua, Justin, and I played here all the time . . .” she says giggling at
a silly memory.
“What’s so funny? And you knew Justin back then?”

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 “Yea, I’ve known Justin for a long time . . . his mother was Josh and I’s caretaker,” Arianna says
softly.
“Ah . . . and the funny part?” Maria asks.
"O . . . yea . . . well when Justin was eight and I was seven we became. . . well. . .  good friends
and I had this little crush on him . . .” Arianna states.
“Go on . . . . Give me the details!” Maria says sitting down on a nearby bench.
“Well it was before I knew Josh was to be King and I had no choice in the matter. I told Justin
that one day I’d be Queen and he’d be my King and we’d live happily ever after . . . but of course that
never will or can happen . . .” Arianna mutters smiling softly at her reflection in the pond water.
“So you had a thing for him?” she asks giggling.
“Yes . . . I don’t see how that’s funny!”
“Sorry . . . It’s just I wasn’t expecting anything like that . . .” she says trying to stop giggling.
“We both know we’re never going to be together . . .” Arianna says playing with a red tulip she
picks up from the ground.
“Why’s that?” Maria asks as she abruptly stops giggling.
“Well . . . you see . . . he’s fallen for another girl, and I would not force the guy that I’m in love
with to marry me . . .” she mutters with tears about to fall.
“Well I have to say that really sucks!”
“Yea… it really does...”
*****
Joshua and Justin were getting closer to the border of Wolfvain and Hatsu. Their horses walk
silently next to each other.
“Remember the times where it was easier to consider ourselves as equal?” Joshua asks softly
remembering the good old days.
“Yea we used to play in the garden with your sister…” Justin states. 
“I remember when she first told me that she liked you!” Joshua says chuckling.
“Oh… yea I remember… especially when she said ‘When I become Queen you will be my
king?!’”
“Yea… buts that’s kind of different since I’m king now!” Joshua says while smiling.
“Yea…” Justin says hoping Joshua will change the subject.

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 “Oh… how she loved you… the last I knew she still does… that’s why I asked you first if you
wanted her, but you refused…” Josh states bluntly.
“Well it would never work out… plus I’m not into royal marriages, too much attention from
people that don’t personally know me… I mean being the strongest knight in your army is enough
already, but a consort to a princess would be too much!” Justin explains.
“Hmm…I see…Is that why you make up the story about a dream lady?”
“No that’s real…there is a girl whom I am falling for….”
“Oh…can this perhaps be Lady Ashton?” Joshua asks curiously.
“I don’t know her name, but I see her nearby the palace attending to the vagrants.”
“Hmm…sounds like her…well we’re here at Hatsu borderlines…time to ask directions to the
royal palace…” Joshua exclaims as both of them ride gallantly towards the capital city.
*****
Queen Maria dresses back in royal clothing, went to go attend her first royal conference.
Arianna, who has attended one before with her parents, decided that she wouldn't go. Instead, she
decided to linger around the gardens spending time to remember the memories. She sits down by the
fountain silently, as tears fell down her face.
“Are you okay, my Lady?” James asks quietly cocking his head a little to the right.
“Yes I'm fine... Just remembering...” Arianna replies as she wipes away her tears with her hand.
After the ninja battle a couple days ago, Arianna had asked James to be an assassin for the
kingdom and he agreed to her proposal.
It was getting darker as the day went by and after many meetings and conferences Queen Maria
was exhausted, and Arianna suggested that she should get some rest. Which of course sounded very
amazing to Maria.
*****
Josh and Justin finally made it to the palace of Hatsu. After making it through the guards, and
up to the main throne room, they finally got to the Emperor.
Justin kneels and bows to the Emperor in respect. Joshua waits till the Emperor dismisses his
Parliament and guards. After he was done, the Emperor starts to speak.
“Welcome my brother from the East..." the Emperor says opening his arms up in welcome.
“Thank you Koichi... I've come to discuss with you the idea of a future marriage arrangement...”
Joshua says walking towards the Emperor, his eyes roaming the floor.

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 “And who is the Lady who is promised?” the Emperor asks curiously.
“It's my twin sister Princess Arianna...” Joshua states clearly while looking up at the Emperor.
“Hmm... tell me about this... Arianna...” the Emperor says leaning forward taking interest.

*****
In the royal dungeon, James the assassin was interrogating two men dressed in black that were
found under the royal carriages after the wedding. After much torture and threatening, James found out
they were fellow ninja students of Maria.
"So you have no intentions or reasons to harm my king or queen?” James asks before letting
them go.
“No sir... Maria is our master... we came to surprise her but got caught, right AJ?” the one
explains as he rubs his sore wrists.
“Yes! Kirk and I would never even think about harming Master Maria!” the one named AJ
states with a look of disgust at the thought of harming her.
James looks them over once more.
“Alright, come with me, I'll take you to her highness,” James says while leading the way. . .

19
 (VI)

As Josh and Justin leave Hatsu with the approval of the royal marriage between Princess
Arianna and Emperor Koichi, they take one last glance behind them before setting off towards home.
The only sight they saw before them was the trees and the sunrise.
****
Back at the Palace a new day was arising. Maria wakes up by herself for the first time in the
castle. After a nice bath in the hot spring, she gets dressed and sneaks out to roam the hallways in
search of things to get into.
On the other side of the castle Arianna wakes up at the sound of a Nightingale singing outside
her balcony doors. She stretches and gets up to take a bath.
When Arianna dries off afterward, she hears a noise coming from her balcony. As a normal
person would she shrugs it off and begins to dress in her closet.
Yet as she laces up the last string on her green dress, a woman walks in from the balcony. The
woman watches the Princess reach for her tiara.
Arianna turns around right before the woman starts to cast a spell.
“No more will you love my man... So long as I can... My spell causes you to sleep... Until true
love's kiss, my spell will not break!” the woman says as Arianna falls onto the floor unconscious.
As there was a knock on the bedroom door, the woman leaves her note and jumps off the
balcony.
James walks in taking a few seconds to notice that Arianna was on the floor.
“...Princess? Princess?!?!” James says shaking Arianna trying to wake her before seeing the
note.
He grabs it even though it was labeled to Sir Justin, he reads it aloud to himself:

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My Dearest Justin ,

I love you like you love me . I have taken care of the Princess.

She will not get in our way ever again . Though if they wish to

wake her they must find her eternal true love and he must kiss

her. When you read this burn it and come to me at the Assai

Temple .

Signed Lovely Lady Ashton

James sees that Justin was a part of the scheme, picks up Arianna and lays her upon the bed.
Then he throws a smoke ball and disappears into it, to go find Maria.

*************************************************

King Josh and Sir. Justin finally arrive back at the castle. As they jump off their horses, two
stable boys grab the reins and start to lead the horses towards the royal stable.
“I'm so glad to be back!” Justin says stretching waiting eagerly for Josh to allow him to take
leave to the knight's quarters.
Just then James and Kirk appear out of nowhere all surrounding Justin with their weapons at his
neck.
“Halt traitor!” Kirk shouts holding his dagger at Justin's neck even closer.
“Wait!!! What do you mean by traitor!?!?” Justin asks in a confused tone of voice.

21
 “You are sentenced to the dungeon by the order of her majesty Queen Maria, for treason of the
highest order!” James says before signaling Kirk to follow his lead.
“Joshua help!!!” Justin shouts as he is backed away by the guards.
“I'll see what I can do, I'll get down to the bottom of this!” Joshua says before walking towards
the Palace so that he can confront Maria of the matter.

*************************************************

All was quiet in a secluded hallway leading to the King's chambers.  Yet hiding in the shadow of
a statue of the greatest knight in Wolfvainian history, is AJ.
Queen Maria opens the door from the King's chamber, as she walks by the statue AJ hops out
and grabs her by the shoulders and presses her up against the wall.
"Umm. . . AJ what are you. . ." she begins to say before he shushes her with his lips upon hers.
At first Maria tries to protest, but then she gives in as she wraps her arms around his neck,
which leads him to press his body against hers.  They passionately kiss and run their hands all over
each other until they hear the door handle turn. They jump up onto the ceiling before the door opens
revealing Josh, who walks in.
"Hmm. . . I thought I heard something. . . “He says before turning around and exiting, closing
the door behind him. 
After a minute both AJ and Maria exhale thankfully.
"That was the best kiss I ever had!" exclaims Maria.
AJ smiles and hugs her close, before looking into her eyes.
"I'm glad master" he says softly reaching down to caress her face.
"Please AJ, call me Maria” she says blushing and smiling uncontrollably.
He chuckles and embraces her once more before parting to help James and Kirk with their
capture of Sir. Justin.

*************************************************

22
 "I have no clue what you are talking about . . . Arianna is a friend!"  Justin swore as he paces in
his dungeon cell. 
"Then why is your name upon this very paper?!" James accuses Justin shoving the paper
through the bars of the dungeon cell.
Justin grabs the letter and glances it over, his eyes getting bigger at every word.  Kirk watches
Justin's expression widen in surprise.
AJ walks into the dungeon and hands his dagger to Kirk, before walking up to Justin.
"I swear I had no idea that, that was her plan!  I like her, but I didn't know she knew that
Arianna had feelings for me!"  Justin pleads to AJ, hoping they'd really believe him.
Kirk walks up to Justin and places his hand on Justin's chest.
"James . . . he speaks the truth!" Kirk says stepping back from Justin.
"Are you sure Kirk?"  James asks seriously, finding it very hard to believe.
"Here, I'll give you a second person's opinion," AJ says as she walks up to Justin and does the
same thing Kirk did.
"Kirk speaks the truth. . . Justin isn't lying!"  AJ says confirming Kirk's conclusion.
"Fine . . . but there is something that Sir. Justin must do before he can run off with Lady Ashton.
. . “James says sadly because the evidence meant he couldn't torture Justin any further.
"Anything to get out of this mess!" Justin says praying to God that he'll soon get out of that
humid, wretched, smelly dungeon.
"Well. . . you must first go up to Arianna's bedchambers and kiss her to see if in fact you are her
true love. . .  if you happen to not be, you must find out from Lady Ashton how to find whom the
princess' true love is," Kirk states flinging the dungeon keys around his fingers.
"Well that's easy enough. . . I accept your proposal!"  Justin states as he starts getting antsy from
stands in such a small room for a long time.
Kirk grabs the correct key and opens the dungeon door to allow Justin out.
"Now . . . to find out. . ." Justin says hoping that he was in fact not Arianna's true love. . . 
************************************************
King Josh came upon Maria in the castle library reading.  She didn't notice him come in for she
was entranced by the beautiful tale the book held in its bindings.
"Why did you sentence Justin to the dungeon?"  He asks furiously which startles her.

23
 "It was his girly friend that placed your dear sister under a spell,” she says trying her best to
defend herself.
He grabs her arm and pins her against the bookshelf.    She struggles violently trying to get
away from, but being a man he has more upper body strength than her.  Her dirty blonde hair tangled
upon the books.
"You've kept away from me long enough! You are my wife and I have a right to have you!"  He
shouts while pressing himself against her.
He grabs both of her hands with his left and grinds against her.
"Please Josh. . . Please don't!!  Anything but this!" she pleads as tears were coming out of her
eyes.
"NO! YOU ARE MINE!!" he shouts grabbing her and pushing her on the library's table.
She struggles some more trying to get away.  Josh, for a split second went to unzip his pants. 
Maria saw the opening and furiously slapped the left side of his face, which causes him to step
backward.  She took the opportunity to get away and disappears through the doorway still crying. 
Josh has a look of disbelief on his face.  He never thought Maria would slap him, yet less likely
to reject him. . . 
*************************************************
Justin walks up beside Arianna's bed and glances back at James and the rest of the guards. 
James motions Justin further with his hand.
"Well here goes nothing. . . “Justin mutters glancing upon Princess Arianna in her flowing red
dress.   Her train fell down upon the side of the bed and her golden blonde hair glimmers against the
black bed sheets.
He moves closer sitting upon the side of the bed.  Exhaling deeply, before leaning down and
grazing his lips against hers.
A half a minute goes by and nothing happens.  Justin leans back and Arianna is still under the
spell.
"Well it was a long shot but we tried" James says shrugging.
Justin gets up and walks towards the guards.
"It's time to finally meet her in person" he says exhaling taking one more glance at his princess
before walking out followed by all the guards.
*************************************************

24
 King Josh was sitting upon his throne in front of a royal messenger.
"What is the news in Hatsu?"  Joshua asks curiously.
"Emperor Koichi is on his way here as I speak." the messenger states.
"I'm guessing he heard wind about my sister?"  Josh questions.
"Yes your majesty, he plans to try and break the spell that is placed upon her," the messenger
concludes before bowing and taking his leave.
"Ugh . . . this is turning into a chaotic mess . . . Maria rejects me . . . and my sister does not
wake . . . I'm making out to be such an unfit king . . . " Josh says laying his head in his hands.

25
 (VII)

The moonlight poured through the balcony curtains illuminating the bottom edge of the massive
four poster king sized bed.  The only noise audible was the soft breathing from the unconscious
Princess Arianna. It had been exactly three months since Lady Ashton cast the curse upon her.  King
Josh had tried everything he possibly could in hopes that saving Arianna would bring Maria closer to
him. Unluckily for him neither their neighboring Emperor nor Sir. Justin were able to awaken her with
a kiss.  As for Lady Ashton, she was found murdered before they could even get an answer from her.
Slain in cold blood that was splashed against the temple walls.
Thus, Sir. Justin wept in solitude without food or drink for two weeks straight.  He knew then
that the great goddess must have great and dire plans in store for him.  So Josh put him in charge of
finding Arianna's true love that would break the spell.
Tonight Justin entered the sleeping Princess' chambers.  Exhaling after a long hard day’s search,
he walked over to the unconscious princess.  He sat down on a seat next to her bed. Resting his elbows
on the edge of the bed, he then leaned his forehead against his hands.
"Who is the cure . . ? Oh Arianna . . .  I wish I knew . . . although I did not love you like you
loved me, I would have never wished this upon you . . . and no matter what . . . you'll always be my
best friend . . . " he whispered  softly glancing down at her fair skinned face before taking her cold
hand into his.
He caressed his cheek upon her hand before kissing it softly and leaning his forehead against it. 
He smiled faintly, but that smile disappeared as quickly as it arrived. He exhaled one more time closing
his eyes tightly shut, tears threatening to fall.
"For you my princess . . . I WILL find your true love, even if it's the last thing I do!! . . . For you
of all people deserve an overflowing abundance of happiness . . . " He stated passionately before
standing up and praying one last time to the great goddess for courage, strength and guidance.
As Justin was about to leave her chambers, Queen Maria glided slowly into Arianna's
chambers.  She looked up into Justin's eyes and smiled softly, before placing her hand on his shoulder.
"You are looking worn out my friend, please retire to your chambers soon, you need your rest, I
have faith that my dear sweet sister's true love is out there somewhere and that you will find him . . . 

26
but until then I have my wonderful students watching her ever so closely . . . you need not worry . .
“She spoke softly before giving him the opportunity to leave.
As soon as Justin closed the bedchamber doors behind him as he left, AJ walked out from his
hiding place in the closet.
"My love you have come to pay your respects, and pray to the great goddess our most beloved
teacher . . ?" Maria questioned him inquisitively without even glancing at him.
"My beautiful and most desirable queen . . . you know as well as I do that my job is to watch
and protect the princess from within the shadows . . . " he stated as he walked up behind her putting his
arms around her waist and kissing her neck gently.  "Though in all due honesty I'd rather be spending
my time showing the most beautiful and precious queen in my world . . . how much I love and desire
her."
Maria smiled faintly, as AJ slowly turned her around and brought his lips to hers.  They shared
this forbidden beautiful moment, as if they were the only two people left in this world.  Slowly they
parted their lips and allowed their souls to connect for the first time. About a minute later, they stop
their soul bonding to look into each other's eyes.
"Maria . . . I promise that till the day I die I will always love and protect you, for I need you . . .
always . . .”

27
 (VIII)

Justin arose from his bed the next morning, stretching and flexing his muscles, he breathes in
the dewy morning air. For the first time, in a long time, he awakes with ease and peace.  This
knowledge catches the knight by surprise, for he has been taking extra lengths and measures, to hunt
down the answer to Arianna's curse.
There's something that I must be overlooking . . . he mutters to himself.
He sits on the edge of the bed, pondering over what it is he's missing.  There must be a key to
this insanity . . . maybe I am looking in all the wrong places?
He exhales silently, straining his brain to think clearly: The place that I would least expect to
find the answer. . . THE DIVINE KNIGHTS!!
He jumps up from his bed and dances around the room.  Luckily, being the greatest knight in the
Royal Guard, he has a room all to himself.  Thus, he has no worries of waking any of the other knights
up. After several minutes, of partying to himself, he rushes to get dressed, almost forgetting to put his
pants on, before rushing out the door and down the hallway.
In just mere minutes Justin arrives at the doors of the divine temple, located on the west side of
the castle.  Gasping out of breath, he wipes his forehead before grabbing the handle and venturing
forward. As he steps into the temple he closes the door as quietly as possible.  As he turns to look at the
statue of Sauriel he comes face to face with a man dressed in black armor with Auburn Hair.
"May I help you?" the man says, his hand resting on the hilt of his sword.
"Yes, I am Sir. Justin, Captain of the Royal Guard, and childhood friend of King Joshua and
Princess Arianna.  I am requesting a meeting with the Divine Knights."
The man overlooked Justin, before nodding and motioned him to follow.  They walk through
the temple and into a room in the back where five other men in black armor stood at a table.
"So my fellow knights, Sir. Justin of the Royal Guard is here to speak to us," the Auburn haired
man explains to the rest.
"Are you sure we should communicate with him Christopher?"  One of the knights with hair the
color of chocolate questions.

28
 "I am quite sure, Jagger, there must be something very important that he came to us, without
taking care of it himself,"  the Auburn haired man named Christopher says while leaning against the
wall and crossing his arms.
"Alright speak Sir. Justin," Jagger states gesturing with his hand.
Justin gulps as all eyes fell upon him.  He was nervous for these six men were the highest
ranked of all the warriors and knights throughout the country of Wolfvain.  It took years of skill,
devotion, and the utmost loyalty towards the goddess Sauriel to be chosen to serve as a Divine Knight. 
Stories and epic tales were told at bedtime to little children, about the six knights.
"Noble . . . and. . . Honorable Divine Knights . . . you of all people should be familiar with our
unconscious 
Princess in the East most tower bedroom. . . I have been entrusted with finding her true love to break
the curse upon her. . ." Justin explains as his palms begin to get sweaty.
There was a silent pause, until the blonde haired knight next to Jagger asks, "So . . . you want
our help in finding the princess' true love?"
Before Justin could answer, Christopher says, "Maybe, he's inquiring if we know the answer,
Saren, did you 
Think of that? What do you think Damon?" 
The black haired knight on the other side of Jagger says "Maybe he is wondering, if one of us is
her true love."
"So which is it, Sir. Justin?" Christopher questions smirking at the nervous Captain of the Royal
Guard.
Justin exhales before answering, "I was hoping that you all would be willing to try and break
the spell."
"Hmm. . . What do you think Christopher?" the orange haired knight across from Jagger asks. 
"You know Eric, It's worth a shot, and I think it would be a fun sort of challenge.  Your thoughts
on this, Vicente?"
The last knight with dark navy hair looks up at Christopher before stating, ". . . Sounds fun. ."
"Then it's settled.  Tomorrow afternoon, we Divine Knights will meet you: Sir Justin, Captain of
the Royal Guard, at the highest tower bedroom on the East side where the Princess Arianna lies in
waiting," Christopher says before Saren and Vicente walk to Justin to escort him out of the temple.

29
 "Thank you guys, I appreciate your help," Justin says bowing before following Saren and
Vicente out of the temple. . .
"This is an interesting turn of events," Jagger states to Christopher.
"Yes it is . . . yes indeed. . .” Christopher smirks as he turns around and heads to his
chambers. . .

30
 (IX)

It is early afternoon on the day that the Divine Knights promised to meet Justin in Arianna's
bedchambers.  The sun is setting and the teal balcony curtains are shimmering radiantly as they blew in
the soft wind. Justin looks over at Arianna and pushes a strand of her golden blonde hair behind her
ear.  He exhales softly and places a hand on her cheek, before whispering Beautiful Arianna, I am
hoping and praying to Divine Sauriel that one of these men are the answer . . . and I hope that you will
not be too disappointed to find out that it's  not me . . . 
He removes his hand from her cheek before walking over to her balcony. Hopefully my dear
princess, that you will greet us again on this most beautiful and perfect evening.
As he exhales again, he hears a click as the door to Arianna's bedchambers opens to reveal the
six Divine Knights.  Justin moves to the side of Arianna's unconscious body, as the six men surround
her bed.
"It is very good to see you again, Sir. Justin," Christopher says as he stands at the other side of
the bed.
"Same towards you, I just hope with all my being, that one of you are the answer. . . “Justin says
before leaning on the wall next to the headboard of the bed.
"I was the most eager to try, so Christopher allowed me to try first, we arranged ourselves
accordingly," Saren says standing next to Justin.
"Well . . . let's begin then. . . “Justin says motioning for Saren to begin.
The blonde haired Divine Knight smiles brightly before placing his hands on the bed.  He
reaches up and grazes his hand against Arianna's cheek before leaning down and planting his lips upon
hers.  He stays there for a few more seconds, before he stops and looks down at the still unconscious
Princess.
Sighing upon defeat, Saren mutters "Well a man can dream" before stepping back so then
Jagger could take his place.
Jagger looks at the princess and back at the remaining four knights.  He leans down to the
princess and kisses her silently. Though when he opens his eyes and let’s go of the kiss . . . he notices
that the princess stayed the same.

31
 “Well two down, four to go," Justin says as he starts to become doubtful that he'll ever find
Arianna's true love.
Damen went after Jagger, and received the same result.  Eric and Vicente seemed to not do any
better. Justin was starting to break down inside, as he thinks to himself that there is no hope.
      The other five knights pat Christopher on the back, encouraging him.
      "You can do it!" Saren says smiling brightly.
      "Thanks guys, I shall try my best" Christopher says before sitting down upon the edge of the
bed next to the unconscious princess.
      He sits there grazing his hand on the unconscious princess' cheek, as he admires her beauty.  He
gazes at the pale white skin of her face, which was rumored to be gifted to the people who were closest
to the blood of the goddess herself.  The orange glow of the sunset caused her golden hair to shine even
more radiantly. He smiled softly running his hand through her hair, admiring it so.  Lastly, he notices
her lips, small with a soft shade of pink to them. He runs his thumb against those lips, feeling their
smoothness. Smiling once more, he then leans down and gently places his lips upon hers.
      Everyone was quiet and still until Christopher rises from leaning over the princess.  The knights
were greeted with a most wondrous sight. Upon the sound of a small cute sigh, the princess's eyelids
opened, revealing her silvery gray eyes.
      "Welcome back, Princess Arianna. . . “Justin says as he smiles excitedly.
      "Umm . . . what do you mean by . . . welcome back?" she asks while wondering who and why
these men were surrounding her bed.
      "My princess, you have been asleep for roughly over three months. . . “Christopher says smiling
at her.
      "Why have I not awaken beforehand?" Arianna questions authoritatively.
      "Well Arianna, Lady Ashton, the woman I loved, placed on curse on you . . . and I was given the
job in finding the cure, which was having your true love kiss you. . ." Justin answers softly.  "And by
Sauriel, I finally found him."
      Arianna looks around her at all the men, before asking "Well, who is the one that I may call my
savior?"
      "I am your true love, my princess," Christopher says as he brings Arianna's hand up to his lips
and kisses it softly, causing her to slightly blush.  "I hope that this pleases you . . ."
      Arianna gazes upon the auburn haired Divine Knight, with his warm brown eyes.

32
       "Your name sir?" she asks him.
      He smiles before replying, "I am Sir. Christopher, head of the Divine Knights of Wolfvain.  My
princess, I hope that as your true love, you will take me as yours forever . . . ?"
      Arianna smiles and blushes before stating "Sir. Christopher, I believe that I would like that very
much. . . "
      Justin starts to tear up, he wipes them away before announcing, "I think we should get you
ready, so we can announce your revival . . . everyone has missed you dearly. . ."
      "Yes. . . I don't want my friends, family, and people to be any more worried than they are
already, but first I think I should freshen up and change. . . “Arianna says smiling at all of them.
       "I will be waiting at the top of the stairs for you my princess. . . “Christopher says before
kissing the back of her hand and leaving the room followed by the other five Divine Knights.
      After they left Justin helped Arianna up from her bed.
       "I had surely thought before, that you were my true love. . . “Arianna admits to Justin.
      "I know Ari, but I tried and I didn't break the spell," Justin replies.
      "Well I hope he is really 'the one'".
       "I have a feeling he is . . ."

33
 (X)

      Arianna glances at her mirrored image, fixing her tiara into place, she still feels uncertain about
her supposed savior.  She exhales and closes her eyes, hoping to clear her mind, as Justin runs his hand
through a strand of her hair.
      "Are you sure, I'll be happy?" Arianna asks without much effort.
      Exhaling Justin hugs her friendly from behind, before saying softly, "Arianna . . . Sir.
Christopher is a noble and divine man, the great goddess could not possibly bring you a more
wonderful partner."
      Justin lets go of the hug before lending Arianna his arm, which she gently takes as they walk
towards the door leading to the top of the staircase.  As they walk out of the door, Arianna's gaze
automatically lock onto Christopher's eyes, who had been waiting patiently at the top of the stairs. He
bows to her before she curtsies in reply.  
      "You look beautiful, my princess . . . " he says softly reaching out for her hand and when she
gives it to him, he brings it to his lips for a kiss.
      "Well . . . while you two get better acquainted, I am going to announce her awakening . . .”
Justin says bowing before quickly descending down.
      Christopher lends his arm towards Arianna, as she grabs his forearm, they slowly begin to
descend down the stairs.
      ". . . So . . . what exactly do you do for a living . . . Sir. Christopher?" Arianna asks curiously.
      "I am head of the goddess' own Divine Knights . . .”
      "Ahh . . . I see . . .” Arianna says trying to think of something else to break the silence.
      "So . . . Princess, what do you do for fun?" Chris asks, hoping that Arianna might feel more
comfortable talking about herself.
      While looking down at her red ball gown, Arianna replies, "I like to play the piano . . ."
      Stopping in his tracks, Christopher looks at her and asks, "What pieces do you enjoy playing?"
      "My favorite happens to be 'Darkness Sonata' . . .” she says smiling nervously.
      The rest of the descent down the staircase was filled with quick unnoticed glances, rapid heart
beating, and controlled breathing.  Arianna clung loosely to Christopher's arm, wondering nervously if
he was indeed her one true love. She glanced up at his face, feeling a remote mystique about him, yet

34
for some reason, as she could with others, she could not read his aura.  She knew nothing of this man
other than he was able to awaken her and that he was the leader of the goddess' sacred divine knights.
      As they reached the bottom of the staircase a servant bowed before them before opening the
double doors while saying "Welcome back, Princess Arianna."
      Walking into the ballroom that was filled with many prestigious guests, was like walking into a
Summer Solstice Festival.  
      A couple hard taps were heard loudly in the room, silencing the huge crowd.
      King Joshua begins to speak, "Our guest of Honor has finally arrived, please welcome back our
Princess Arianna, and her betrothed, Sir. Christopher, Divine Knight of Sauriel."
      The room slowly bowed at Arianna and Christopher's entrance.
      "For this evening the new couple shall dance to one of Princess Arianna's favorite musical
pieces."
      Arianna turned slowly towards Christopher. He bows to the princess, takes a hold of her hand
and brings it up to his lips.
      After gently kissing the back of her hand he softly asks "May I have this dance, my princess?"
      Arianna smiles softly and nods before stating, "I shall dance with you . . . for all of this lifetime
and the ones to come after."
      They both than began to waltz to the soothing and sweet melody of the Darkness Sonata.
      All guests followed suit, and everyone was having a great time. Everyone, except Sir. Justin,
who was watching the couple waltz from a side table. Watching the princess smile so brightly made
him realize how much he did care for her.  All the times he could have been with her . . . and now he's
lost her forever.
      "It's weird isn't it . . . how one's feelings can change in an instant?"
      Justin looked to see who was talking.  A young man who appeared in his early thirties with long
black hair and a pale angular face, sat down next to him.  He was wearing a long black robe and felt as
if heat was radiating off his skin.
      "Why does this happen?" Justin asked leaning his chin on his left hand.
      "It is just the way of things, you can't change fate, they were just made for each other," the man
stated while taking a sip of clear liquid out of a glass.
      "Who are you by chance? I don't think I've ever seen you before . . ." Justin asks.

35
     "The name's Asmodeus, I'm also known as Sir. Christopher's other half you've seen me as my
other form . . . his horse . . .” the man said taking another sip. 
      Justin, a bit frightened, asks "his other half?"
      "Yes . . . so to speak, his dark side, his protector against divine ordeal.  I surely am not one to be
messed with." Asmodeus says.
      Sir. Justin instantly spit out his drink all over the table. This causes a mild scene with the nearby
patrons, who quickly shrug it off as someone who can't hold their liquor.  
      "You are telling me that all this time, Sir Christopher's horse . . . was in fact a person?!?"  Sir
Justin exclaims, nearly not believing what is coming from his mouth.
      Asmodeus laughs lightly as he responds "yes, the entire time, his horse was in fact, something
else, but not a person."
      Sir Justin lightly moves his chair further from Asmodeus, trying to conceal his fear.
      "If you’re not a person, then what the hell are you?!?"
      Asmodeus looks Sir. Justin in the eyes, Justin could see that Asmodeus’ eyes had no color, it
was like polished black stones sat where eyes should be, void, unnatural.  Asmodeus glances back over
to watch Sir Christopher and Arianna dancing and calmly answers as he takes another sip of vodka, “I
am a divine demon, the prince of hell, the crimson king, sent on a mission by Sauriel to protect Sir
Christopher and be his loyal servant until his dying day."
      A loud crash was heard, as Sir Justin fainted on to the table, collapsing it on top of himself, and
Asmodeus was nowhere to be seen . . .

36
 (XI)

      News of the liberated revival of Princess Arianna spread quickly over the entire kingdom.  The
couple days and nights after were filled with partying and celebration. As King Joshua watched his
subjects dance and drink, he realized how much they truly loved their princess.  This sudden realization
made him question whether or not he should be ruling Wolfvain.
      "What is your opinion Justin? Do you think I should step down as King?" Joshua asked as his
eyes wander over the kingdom of which he's had claim to since he was born, from his bedchamber
balcony.
      Justin watched Joshua intently, trying to keep his attention on their conversation, but his
thoughts were all wrapped around Arianna and this new concept of Asmodeus.
      Joshua, who turned to look at Justin when no response was given, sighed and shook his head
slowly, while a smile lit his face, "I see your thoughts are placed somewhere else?"
      Justin lowers his head, before sighing and stating, "My apologies sire..."
      "No need to apologize . . . but I am contemplating on giving up my throne to my sister, whom
seems to have her heart in the right place to lead this country into a brighter future than I could, "
Joshua explained. “My wife Maria doesn’t love me, and as you can see by all this celebrating and
partying the people are in love with my sister.”
      Justin stands up, walks over to the side of Joshua on the balcony and looks over at the beautiful
land of Wolfvain.  They take a few moments soaking in the beauty of the mountains and rivers seen off
in the distance. After a minute or so, Joshua sighs, turns away from his balcony and walks over to his
bed.  He sits on the bed and puts his head in his hands.
      Justin instinctively walked over to Joshua, sat down on the bed next to him and put his hand on
Joshua’s back.
      “Sire… Everything will be fine, I know it. Your sister is a loving, generous and compassionate
person, and I know if you give her the throne, that she will keep you in high regards and continue an
era of peace and love to our kingdom.”
      “You are right Justin.  I have decided, I will give my sister the throne and the kingdom.  I was
never meant to rule, I realize that now and in doing so I will also annul my marriage with Maria, I

37
know that she has been seeing her student AJ in the shadows while I am not looking.  I only pray to
Sauriel that my sister will have mercy on me.”

38