The castle dissolves into a state of madness. Dark Ones are here, in one of the last places we felt safe. The unthinkable had just happened, and I still had no magic to protect my people. My father made the quick decision to send me away, guarded but hidden. Our alliance with House Baltaer held strong, and I would seek protection there. The Dark Ones knew of my power and what I was prophesied to do. They were finally getting closer to stopping me. Now was my chance to flee.

Saying goodbye to my parents is over too quickly, and discovering that Orla would be sent out with some of my father's guards as a decoy breaks my heart even more. Orla was the one who taught me how to read the ancient texts. She took the time to help me learn how to bake the treats I liked. She even guided me on basic sewing in case one of my dresses had a small tear from sneaking out to the gardens to play with her and Myra one too many times. I prayed to Goddess Iena that she would be safe in the care of my father's men. And that my parents would remain safe here.

Wolveshire Castle was about a four day journey on horseback. We began our escape as soon as the cover of night allowed for extra protection. Auden, Rylan, Myra, and me, wrapped in commoner's clothes riding a horse that isn't mine. I know immediately that my life is about to drastically change, but I'm thankful I have them.

Our trip is silent at first. Rushed, panicked, fearful. The beasts of Vorpheus lurk at night, and Dark Ones were surely on our tails. I nearly breathe a sigh of relief when we stop for the night in a small village, the warm, glowing fires feeling like a sign of safety for now. Myra checks us in to a small Inn, the bed old and ragged but soft. She and I share it while the men guard the door. Sleep doesn't come easy, though. I miss home already. I miss my parents. I hate knowing that when I wake up tomorrow, the nightmare will still be real.

When the sun rises, so do we. Breakfast is bread, cheese, and eggs that Myra pays the innkeeper for and we eat in a hurry before getting ready to head out again. I keep a long cloth wrapped around my face to draw less attention to me. Most people have never seen the princess, but I refuse to take any chances and relish the piece of mind. Rylan makes a brief stop in the only open shop to pick up more provisions, and I watch in awe how he navigates the stocked shelves and haggles with the shopkeeper.

"The world is much different outside the castle, isn't it your grace?" Auden remarks, amused at my fascination. This is the first time any of us have really spoken to each other casually since leaving last night, and it takes me a moment to process it.

"It is, sir knight," I reply with a smile as quick as I can.

"Goddess be, I've only left the castle a handful of times yet I'm overwhelmed as well." Myra's hazel eyes widen at the sight of a clothing stand just now setting up for the day. I nearly have to drag her back to our horses so we can leave before the town fully wakes. A part of me finds her excitement humorous, but a part of me is also just glad she's staying positive despite the fact that her sister put her life on the line. We still don't know what happened to my parents or Orla, but Myra and I seem content assuming they are safe.

Riding during the day isn't so bad. Myra and I get to chat as we keep a slower pace, the men scanning the area for danger as we take in the beauty of the fields surrounding us. I'd never been permitted to leave the castle. The flowers I see now are much more vibrant than the same dried flowers gifted to me from time to time. The birds sing beautifully and the smell of nature here is more pleasant than I ever would have imagined. The tall grass feels surprisingly rough against my legs when I walk through it. Somehow, I imagined it would feel softer. And less itchy.

We stop for lunch under a large tree that provides us much needed shade. Smoked meat and more bread and cheese are passed around, and I savor the unique and unfamiliar flavor.

"Your grace," Auden interrupts my daydreaming, taking a long swig of water before continuing. "Since you're supposed to find love, do you have any thoughts on who you would want?"

The question is a bit of a forward one, but I can tell Auden is not suggesting himself. He's merely genuinely curious and seems to find the situation a bit funny. I take it in jest, and offer a joke.

"Not really, but it won't be either of you." I stick my tongue out for good measure, laughing as Auden gasps and begins to cackle. Rylan says nothing, but me referring to him seems to have turned his cheeks slightly pink. I don't know if that's anger or embarrassment.

"We know we aren't worthy, your grace," Auden bows mockingly.

"Of course you aren't," Myra scoffs jokingly. "She could have any man in all of Espia!"

"Indeed, that is true," Auden grins, giving her a playful wink. She blushes and turns her gaze back to her food.

"I've heard good things about Prince Jarrett." Myra tries to veer the conversation back on topic.

"The townspeople just like him because he's handsome. And charming." Rylan finally speaks up, scowling off into the distance.

"He's not very well-received when it comes to talk between knights." Auden clarifies.

"Sounds like jealousy to me." Myra retorts.

"A leader should care about his people." Is all Rylan says in return.

"Who's to say he doesn't?" Myra shrugs. Rylan shoots her a glare.

"It's not just about caring for those that can give you something or do something for you. It's about caring for everyone, including those that can do nothing for you. The poor, the ill, the cursed...they shouldn't be overlooked."

"Fair point," I say, and he locks eyes with me. "Hopefully he's kind when we meet him."

"I'm sure he'll be plenty kind to you, your grace," Auden rolls his eyes, which earns him a playful shove from Myra.

Author's Note: I hope you are enjoying this so far! Let me know what you think by voting and commenting. :)