Chapter 1
Chapter 1-
I clutched the warm canteen of tea against my breast, although the warmth has long reached the frosty air. Curfew isn’t until 9:00 pm. I have a few hours to myself, at most. Mom, Travee, and Cassie were all assisting in the house. Well, they used to. It’s just me, Mom and my stepfather left.
Mom has no idea I’m out in the woods right now, and if she does she will blow the biggest fuse there is. Being outside is one reason, and or rule, she considers not ladylike and forbids me to do so.
I gulped down my tea in one swig and scruffed my boots in the stool. I had to go. Soon Mom will notice I’m gone, and then REAL trouble is going To happen. Leaping off my stool, I muttered “Gotta go.” I slapped down a 10-dollar bill, plus a tip. “Have a nice day, sir.”
He gave a solemn nod. “Thank you. You too.”
I opened the door when the breeze flew in my face. My fur-laced boots kept my feet snug and warm from the chilly breeze that blew throughout the forest. Under thick wraps, I carefully snagged my gloves from my fur pocket to my left hip and slid them on. I remember, before, my sister worked so hard to manage the family when I was younger that her fingers were raw and cracked and bled at the slightest provocation. Mom is always nagging me to take care of myself more now. I’m the last heir to the throne.
As I passed the sign that welcomes citizens into our town of Salinas Ash, I got wandering, suspicious looks from locals. Not that I can blame them. After the king, who’s my stepdad, took over to reign, there has been nothing but complaints and executions. I’ll admit, he does a crappy job at being king, but as my mother says ‘“That’s no way for a princess to talk, in or out of court’”. The locals know not to trust anyone, or anything. The king is always watching... Always listening…
“Excuse me miss,” The guard (His name is Hal) said when I had reached the castle gates. “Do you have a scheduled meeting with any of the royals?”
Wow. I was that unrecognizable. Nice. I slid off my hood and loosened my cloak from my shoulders.
“It’s me, Fern,” I replied, giving a slight curtsy. Another rule of my mother’s slammed into my head. You don’t bow to one of a lower rank or status than yourself. Oh well. I’m not rude and egotistical like that.
Hal raised an eyebrow in concern.
“Your Highness Fern, may I ask what you’re doing out at a time like this? Your mothers going to blow quite a fuse!” He lowered his voice. “And so’s your ignorant dad.”
“He’s NOT my dad,” I snapped coldly, sliding my cloak back on in one swift movement. “My STEP-dad was a stupid idiot who my mom married for money. I was just out for a cup of tea, sir.”
“Very well. You may be beckoned to your room.” I sighed, nodded, and walked inside, almost halfway up the stairs when Hal spoke again.
“Your dad may be ignorant, Miss Fern, but he’s definitely not a fool. Be careful of what you do and say. If you wish to go out, I’ll authorize a pass for your leave. Just- be careful and cautious of what you’re up against.”
His words were stern but not yet menacing. It wasn’t a threat.
It was a warning.
I gave him a wary glance, and waltzed to my room.
