Toran Castle, 2006
The room was dark and silent as Prince Kenneth walked through the bathroom adjoining his room to that of his twin sisters. As he stood in the doorway, he surveyed the room from the vanity filled with her make-up to her canopy bed with pink curtains, which were never drawn.
“Ahh…�, Ken sighed, “Sari where on earth are you?�. He said that out loud as he recalled his mothers reaction when she found out that her beloved daughter was missing.
When Ken went down to the drawing room that was found in an older part of the ancient castle that morning, he found his mother already there. The room was filled with turn-of-the-century furniture. His mother who was circling the whole room, about 5x5 meters, almost hit a hundred year-old chair. Her pacing only meant one thing: something was wrong.
“Mother, what is wrong?�, Ken asked as he entered the room.
“Ken, where is Sari? It’s almost ten and she is still in bed?�, asked his mother in a panicked voice.
Queen Myrrh is like a roasted marshmallow, coarse and bitter in the outside yet soft and sweet in the inside. Ken and Sari often used that comparison, when in public their mother would be the queen, ruler of all, serious and, to be frank, frightening, but at home, when they were alone, she would be soft, sweet and motherly.
The queen was also a just person. Why, whenever matters needed resolving one would only have to seek the queen’s counsel. Though she is fair and kind, she has the figure of a hippopotamus, eyes the color of steel and hair with the most putrid shade of brown.
Thankfully her children took after their father, King Cole who had eyes the color of the sky and straw colored hair. The king was every bit as just as the queen, but one summer afternoon, the king vanished as he was out for a cruise on his yacht.
That happened before the twins even turned five, leaving the burdens of being the queen and a mother on Myrrh’s shoulders. It was not easy for her to be a just monarch governing a whole country, a strict lady ruling her home and a loving mother raising her children.
“Mother�, Ken said as he forced her to stop pacing, “I thought Sari was already here. Her bed was empty when I checked her room�
“But she has not come down yet. I was the first one in. the maid said so�
“That cannot be!�, Ken exclaimed as he shook his head “Sure I didn’t hear the shower but her bed was empty.�
“Did you find anything amiss in her room?�
“Let me think…�, Ken recalled his entry to his sister’s room barely ten minutes ago. “Her vanity was normal, closet doors were closed. As far I as saw the place was spic and span.�
“ Then where could she be? Upstairs, downstairs, the kitchen, the roof--�
Ken who was not listening to his mother interrupted her, “Her bed!!!�
“What about her bed, darling?�, his mother asked, “Didn’t you say it was empty? And normally empty means that she’s not there.�
“Mother this is not a time for your sarcasm. It’s even worse than your pacing.�, Ken said as he forced his mother to sit down in a plush armchair, “Her bed wasn’t made. She always makes it even when she ‘s sick.� He explained as Myrrh’s left eyebrow raised.
“ Oh my�, his mother repeated as she got up and started pacing again.
“What do we do?�
“ Yes, a plan.� , The monarch in her started to take over. “Do you have one?�
“ In fact, yes.�, he said, “ We tell people that she’s sick and can’t attend to her duties until she is well.�
“ Even though that might cause major concern for your sister,�, Myrrh said, “ it can be a good excuse for her absence. We have to act as if nothing was wrong.�
“ Of course we will. We have to.�, That ended their conversation.
Ken strode in and lit the lamps. He took out two puppets and mimicked a person feeding another person. He was very good at arts, he always was. If he were given a choice between art and politics, he would choose art.
He was the creative twin or so they say. Of course what they really meant was that he was the weaker twin. Humiliating as it was, Ken didn’t mind at all, it was his mother who was ashamed.
“No prince should ever consider a job less than what his station considers acceptable.�, was what his mother would always say whenever the topic of his hobby as she called it would pop up.
Even though his mother couldn’t understand his passion or arts, Sari did. Whenever his hobby would be criticized she would change the topic so that he won’t feel bad.
Ken laid the puppets on the bed and turned off the lights. “Sari wherever you are, please be safe.�, he said as he took one last look of her room. He locked the door to Sari’s room and went to his. He set up his easel and started painting Sari’s image, all that time praying to God that she was safe and would soon return to them.

You've got a good plot. For the most part, your spelling is decent, but your grammar could use some work. I like your style of writing, though.

Just one thing: what does it have to do with a crecent moon?

Shaqminster Monastery, 1405
A young monk-in-training walked up to the head friar. Even though his head was bowed and his hood was drawn, it was obvious in his stride that his news was urgent.
“ Come now Glen what is it?�, asked the head friar, Kyle, “ You look as if the heavens opened up and told you all of life’s mysteries.�
Glen looked up; his blond hair turned a different shade by the candlelight, his deep green eyes shimmering with anxiety.
“Sir,�, he began, “there is something you--�
“What is this?�, Friar Georg asked, “A mere child interrupting our meeting? Kyle, surely you of all people should enforce the rules which provide our monastery with peace and order.�
“ I know the rules of the monastery and also that all rules must be kept.� , he replied, “But seeing how young Glen here is new, we must be patient with him. Rome wasn’t built in a day you know.�, Kyle looked at Glen wondering what news he brings this time.
Glen was eager but he doesn’t know what was important and what wasn’t. One time he reported that the cat ran away. Another time he said that there were only three flowers left. They all knew that he meant well but sometimes he got on their nerves.
“ Tell me child, what is your news?�, asked Kyle.
“ Well sir, there--�
At that moment the oak doors opened. The wind from the open corridor outside gushed in. a girl of about sixteen years was standing in the doorway. Her powder blue gown was ripped, her blond hair was disheveled and she was covered in mud. Her appearance was that of a maid but the way she carried herself was that of a noble.
“ Who are you?�, Georg was the first to regain his speech. As he said that he pointed to the vacant chair to his left.
“Where are our manners?�, Kyle said as he too rose, “ Please sit. Glen please fetch this young lady some tea.� “Yes sir�, Glen said as he nodded and left the room. Whoever that girl is, he thought, she is very beautiful.
“Now will you please sit?�, Georg asked as he motioned once more to the empty chair to his left.�
The girl nodded as she went to the chair. As she sat down Kyle noticed that she was worried about getting such a seat dirty.
“ Don’t worry child, that chair has seated bottoms dirtier than yours. �, The friars looked at each other and laughed sharing a private joke. When they saw the puzzled expression on her face they stopped.
“We are terribly sorry child.�, Kyle said in apology, “We were just recalling something. Back to business, who are you and how did you get here?�
The girl was surveying her surroundings, from the ceiling to the floor as if she were expecting a trap. She was baffled to see so many pictures of saints were on the wall.
“Ahem.�
“My apologies,�, she said as she stopped inspecting her surroundings and looked Kyle straight in the eye and asked, “ What is it?�
“Of all the--�, Georg was outraged. Not only was this girl acting as if she was a queen but she was also being disrespectful. Why, even female serfs know that looking a man directly in the eye is prohibited.
“Peace brother,�, Kyle said. He knew that Georg was all talk and that underneath it all Georg was as kind, probably kinder, than himself. “this young lady was about to say something.�
“ Kyle, with all due respect, you should not be so kind. You let the young monks get away with the most--�
“Georg, if I don’t cut them some slack they would doubtless be sad and--�
“Kyle if you don’t rule with an iron fist--�
“If I don’t rule with an iron fist? What am I a man of God or a monarch?�
“Of course you are a man of God, brother, �, Georg said in hopes of appeasing the fuming brother. “But sometimes--�
“Who is the head monk of this monastery?�, Kyle asked in a firm voice like that of a dictator.
“You are but--�
“ No buts brother.�, Kyle was outraged. How dare Georg for speaking up and with a guest in their midst? Kyle tried to cool his head as quickly as possible so as not to frighten the girl. “Now child…�
Kyle just trailed off. The girl was asleep, curled up like a cat. Kyle wanted to postpone the questioning but he and Georg were at odds and Kyle did not want to add to that.
“Kyle, can’t this wait till tomorrow?�, Georg asked, surprising Kyle. Georg was usually the first to refer to the rules but, now, just for this girl, he was breaking them.
“Let’s put her in St. Agnes’ Chambers.�, Kyle said.
“Ahh. St. Agnes’ Chambers is a wonderful room.�, Georg agreed, “The child will sleep well there. Speaking of which, we should probably do so ourselves. Surely you want to be fresh for the interrogation.�
“Excellent idea, my friend.�
They left the room with friar Kyle carrying the girl. Ten minutes later a confused Glen entered the room with a tray filled with sandwiches and a pot of tea, he specifically asked the cook to make for the girl.
“Huh?�, he said, as he looked around the room, scratching his head, “Where is everybody?�




In the corridor, a knight asked about the girl, who she really was, where she came from, and why she chose this abbey. The brother was at a lost. The knight was the one who brought the girl but he didn’t seem to know a thing about her. The brother bade him goodbye and went back inside. He went to friar Kyle and reported what he learned: absolutely nothing.

“Ahh good you’re awake.�
The girl opened her eyes and looked around her. The room she was in was magnificent as if it was made specifically for a girl. Way different from the one she fell asleep in. The bed and the pillows were made from goose feathers and the covers were wrought from wool. On the walls were colorful paintings except one that showed a picture of a girl on the onset of puberty and with her is a lamb.
On her left was an old man, his long silver beard glistening in the morning sun and his eyes though gray was sparkling with anticipation. Beside him was another man whose beard was as long but was gray rather than silver, his eyes, which were blue, shimmered with keenness but his scowl was set on his face.
“Where am I?�, she asked
“You, child, are in St. Agnes’ Chambers in Shaqminster Monastery. I am Friar Kyle the head monk here.�, said the man with the gray eyes, “And this is my subordinate, Friar Georg.�
“Friar…Monastery… how?�
“You came last night don’t you remember?�
She could only shake her head. She was about to explain that she was half asleep at that time when there was a knock on the door.
“Come in.�, said Georg all the while not taking his eyes off the girls face.
Glen came in smiling and bowed to the two friars. He was carrying a tray; on it was a bowl of soup and two rolls of bread.
“Good morning.�, He said to the girl, “I brought you breakfast�
“Thank you, you’re very kind.�, she said.
“Glen place that on the table and leave.�, said Georg.
Even though Glen did not want to leave, he had to respect his superiors so he placed the tray on that table, took a bow and left.
“I better make sure he did leave.�, said Georg as he stood, “Excuse me.�
And he went, leaving the girl with Kyle.
“Do you want to eat first?�, Kyle asked the girl.
“What about you?�, she asked.
Kyle was astounded. The girl didn’t care for herself. She actually cared about other people first. This wasn’t some ordinary girl, he thought. An ordinary girl would not care about an old man like me.
“Excuse me?�, she asked.
“Go ahead and eat. I’m have already eaten.�
The girl got out of the bed and made her way to the table. She sat down and looked at the meal spread in front of her. Though it was meager she was grateful for the food. She ate until there was nothing left and thanked the Lord for what she had.
The girl couldn’t stop surprising Kyle. She was kind caring and God-fearing yet there was something about her that was odd.
“Now will you tell me what happened?�, he asked her after she fished with her meal.
“Well…�, she began, her uncertainty obvious. “I don’t want you to think I’m crazy.�
“What is it child? What could possibly make me think you’re crazy?�, he asked with both his eyebrows raised.
“Well I don’t know how to start but…�
“Go ahead.� he urged.
“Well they said the year now is 1405�
“True it is.�
“Last time I checked it was 2005.�, she said.
The friar was silent. 2005! who would’ve known? This girl is daft. There is no way that her story would be true. Yet the way she looked, the way she said it was convincing. “Go ahead.�, he urged. If she was that determined to tell her story, he should at least listen to her
“Okay, here goes.�, she sighed, “My name is Sapphire Rizelle, I am sixteen and was born on Jan.14, 1989. I am a princess of the Toran Empire and I have a twin brother named Kenneth.�
Kyle was shocked this was like something from a storybook. He was so shocked this story was bizarre.
“Anyway I was sleeping in my room in the palace about five days ago and woke up… This is boring, I’ll just show you.�, she said as she closed her eyes and concentrated on something.
“Princess--�
She opened her eyes and cut him off, “Friar,�, she said, “please call me Sari, most everybody I knew did. Besides if this is 1406 I wasn’t born yet and neither was my country.�
“Sari�, he said, “How do you plan to show me?�
“Simple really,�, she said as she closed her eyes and concentrated again. “when I came around, I had some sort of magic which I can’t explain. And I tell you I didn’t have it before.�
She kept her eyes closed until a white fog engulfed the both of them. Kyle heard strange noises. He saw a castle through the fog, a vague form but a castle nonetheless. He saw two children playing in front of it. One fell in the brook the other rescued him.
“That was back in my childhood�
Kyle looked to his right and saw Sari. She was staring at the children with sorrow in her eyes. He then realized that that was Sari and her brother.
The fog thickened again and this time Kyle smelled grass and heard the clanking of swords. The two children again, only this time they were older and were practicing with swords.
“Touché Ken! I win�
“Yeah you do… again�
Kyle heard laughter and turned to face Sari again. She was crying. Kyle patted her on the shoulders and said:
“You’ll get back child, somehow.�
Sari now knew that Kyle believed her and focused on the memory that she wanted to show him.

Five days before,
The grassy pasture was on a cliff over viewing the sea. Sari was wandering unsure where to go. The place was unfamiliar to her as were the clothes she was wearing.
She was so sure she fell asleep in her pajamas and in her bed in the palace. But now she was in a place which was rather pretty if you like nature.
While she was wandering and wondering, a group of men started to get near her. There were probably five of them in all. All looking like a bunch of no good rotten creeps.
“Hey girlie!�, one man, the ringleader by the looks of him, said as he stepped away from the group and went towards Sari, “Why don’t you come with us?�
“Yeah, Listen to Dane girl and you’ll have a great time.�, agreed another man probably Dane’s right-hand man
“No I have…�, Sari looked around trying to find a reason to stay away from the men.
“Come on girlie�, said the man called Dane as he pulled Sari towards him, “I won’t bite.�
Sari screamed as the man pulled her. She kicked and scratched as much as she could but no one could help her. No one else was around except for Dane and his gang.
Suddenly a man came. He was riding a horse and was, by the looks of him, a knight. He charged at them with his sword swinging wildly and screaming a battle cry.
Dane saw the man and pushed Sari towards his right-hand man.
“Guard her.�, He said as he drew his sword and beckoned to his men to do the same. “Doug�, he said to the man, “Don’t let her go.�
As the rogues ran towards the man, Sari took advantage of his absentmindedness and delivered a swift kick to Doug’s groin.
“<EXPLETIVE>!!!�, He yelled as he doubled over.
Sari took his sword and stabbed him in the chest as if he was just an animal. Sari then took his knife. She started after the rogues for she knew that if she didn’t help the man he most probably would die. As she reached the men they were in combat. The four rogues surrounded the man. Sari had the element of surprise. She snuck up on one of the rogues and stabbed him in the back. He died instantly.
The man saw her as did Dane and he didn’t want her in his way. But as he saw Doug’s sword in her hand and his brother’s blood on her dress he went into a ballistic rage and lunged at her.
Sari sidestepped and assessed the situation. This man, she thought, would probably kill me if I gave him a chance. She spared a quick glance at the man. She saw that he was busy with the two other rogues and she could expect no help from him.
“I’LL KILL YOU!!!�, Dane roared as he took another lunge at Sari.
She dodged him and swung the sword. She hit him in the lift leg and he went down swearing. Sari stabbed him in the chest and as Dane howled in pain, she decided that stabbing him would be a too humane death for such a man. She beheaded him.
“Who’s next?�, Sari asked the two men. Both saw how quickly she dealt with Dane. They both dropped their weapons and fled. Sari rushed to the man and helped him to his feet.
“Are you okay?�, She asked him.
The man was stunned to silence. Though Sari was covered in blood and her hair was disheveled, she was so beautiful.
“Excuse me? Are you okay?�, she asked him again, “Did they hit you on the head or something?�
“I’m alright.�, He said, “Are you though, miss--?�
“Sari. And yes I’m fine.�, She said still staring at him as if she expected him to do something strange. “And you are?�
“Sir Kemeny of Rinon�, he said as he bowed low.
“Kemeny…�, Sari said trying his name on her tongue. “That is way too long… besides Kemy sounds way cuter.�
“Ke-Kemy?�, he sounded incredulous. “My name. How could you?�
She didn’t hear him. She was already on the bottom of the hill and was examining his horse.
“Wait up!�, he said “And don’t steal my horse.�
“What’s his name?�, she asked.
“What??�
“His name? Your horse?�, she asked with her eyebrows raised
“Oh, him? he’s Odin.�
She just stared at Odin and lifted his leg. There was a wound there that Kemeny didn’t notice.
“Great, just great.�, he whined “my horse has a leg wound and --�
Sari closed her eyes and waved her hand just above the wound and it healed instantly. Kemeny could only stare. Even as she mounted the horse and steered it towards him he only stared.
“Kemy?�
Her voice broke his trance. He mounted the horse behind her and held his hand out for the reins. She ignored him and urged the horse to a trot.
“Which way is the nearest town?�, she asked him.
“Give me the reins and I’ll take us there.�, he said.
“Which way? How far?�, was her reply. Apparently, she was set on taking them there herself.
“Two kilometers north of here.�
She set the horse towards that direction. They didn’t talk until they reached the village. The people were amazed that a woman was riding the horse. Even more amazed at the man who was letting her do so. They stopped at the inn and rented two rooms.
“There what now?� Kemeny asked as they walked out of the inn and headed to the stables to take care of Odin.
She looked at her clothes and looked around. She was searching for a dress shop. All she saw was a brothel, the inn, a pub and a few measly houses.
“Where can I find a new dress?� she asked Kemeny.
“There is no place you can get a new dress here. I’m sorry Sari.� He said, “Unless you want me to borrow one.�
“It’s alright. I understand.� She sighed, “It’s going to be hard telling people how I got blood on me.�
They entered the stable and put Odin inside a stall. Kemeny brushed him down and made sure he had something to eat. Sari just stood there watching him.
“I’m amazed you know�, Kemy started. “I mean, why would a girl like you would be all alone and unprotected. I’m sure that a noble like you would be easy prey for any bandit.�
“How did you figure out that I’m a noble?�, Sari asked, shocked that he saw through her so easily.
“Sari, I come from a not-so-noble, not-so-poor family, and the way you carry yourself says noble.�, he explained, “So, would you mind telling me why you were out there all alone and so unprotected?�
Sari had no explanation. All she knew was, well, nothing. She was in her bed at home, and then she wasn’t it was just like magic.
“You don’t have to tell me anything.�, Kemy said, “I’m sorry I asked but I just want to know because I don’t want to be hanged for kidnap or anything.�
Sari smiled at that. Back at home, any one who didn’t have an appointment to see her, or any one alone with her in a strange place would have been charged with kidnap or attempt to kidnap. Somehow, this would probably be the only chance she could have to be normal, to not be a royal princess with rules and duties to follow.
“Listen Sari, if you want, you can travel with me, if you want that is.�, Kemy said, “I’m going to the capital and I can take you with me, maybe we can find your family along the way or in the capital. I can get you home if you want, I can also take you to any place you want to go.�
“Thank you Kemy.�, she said as she grinned, “I don’t think you have to take me that far though. If you now a place called the Shaqminster Abbey, I would like to be left there.�
“Sure, I’ll take you there.�, Kemy was sad. He started to like Sari, but she seemed not to be interested. He was hoping he could get her to change her mind on the way to the capital, but it seemed like he had no chance. Shaqminster Abbey was just two days away and two day’s would not be enough for him to convince her. He was just going to have to tell her how he felt.
Kemy started toward Sari but footsteps from outside stopped him.

“Sir Kemeny of Rinon?� a boy asked as he entered the stable.
“What is it boy?� he asked.
“Well sir, I heard that your lady needs new clothes and my sister is prob’ly the same size...� the boy said
“I don’t know lad. I think the lady--�
“If your sister allows it I’ll take it.� Sari said.
“I’ll ask her then.� The boy said and he left the stable.
“You shouldn’t have done that� Kemeny said as he moved back to the horse. “He’ll come back and ask for more gold than I can spare.�
“You don’t trust any one…� Sari said but stopped when she saw the look on his face and remained silent until he was done caring for Odin.
He just stared at her and wondered how just minutes ago he was thinking that he liked this girl. She was probably casting a spell on me, he thought as he pulled her out. He kept dragging her until they got to the pub.
“Okay, I’m sorry just quit your <expletive> silence.� He said.
“Fine, but you should be nicer you know,� She murmured
He frowned at her and almost told her off, but he held his tongue. This girl, Sari, was different, very different.
“Okay, Sari, we need a plan.�
“What for?� she asked.
“Well look around you. Most men here might want to harm you. If you say we’re married…�
“But we rented two rooms.� She said “People might get suspicious to why we don’t sleep with each other.�
“Not a problem, we’ll just say we’re having a fight.� He said.
She just nodded her head and started to go in. Before she could get inside, Kemeny grabbed her by the shoulders and kissed her. Sari was shocked. No one had a right to do that to me! She backed up and slapped him on his cheek.
“Don’t ever do that again!� she exclaimed.
“Sari, sweet, I’m sorry. Wait up.�
Sari stormed in the pub and sat down in an empty table. A man approached her and was going to sit down but Kemeny came in and told the man to shove off.
“You can’t do that.� Sari said
“Can and did.� He replied. “I won’t let my wife sit with any one but me.�
They glared at each other for the rest of the meal until they left. As they went into the inn they smiled at each other and laughed.
“You planned to make me angry right?� Sari asked.
“Well now they know we’re a fighting couple.� He smiled and escorted her to her room. “Good night Sari.�
“Tomorrow, will you please take me to Shaqminster Abbey?�
“Okay. I will get you there.�
He left her there until the next day. The boy gave Sari the dress and Kemeny gave
him a few coins. They left that village and headed towards the monastery.

Shaqminster Monastery,
Sari and Kyle were back in St. Agnes’ Chambers. The fog in the room cleared and Kyle saw Sari back in the bed drained of all her strength.
“Now do you believe me?�, she asked him.
“Child, with what I saw I would never doubt you again.�, Kyle replied. “What do we do?�
“First I need a new identity. Please help me think of a new name friar.�, She said, determination shining in her eyes.
“Indeed. What did you have in mind?�
“I was hoping you’d tell me friar.�
They were silent for about a few minutes. Sari was regaining her strength Kyle was racking his brain for names. Without warning Sari smiled as she was recalling her most favorite memory, her brother trying to jump across a dirty pond and falling straight into it. Kyle saw her face light up and it looked as gorgeous as a rainbow after the rain.
“You know child the name Iris would suit you.�, Kyle said.
“How?�, she asked.
“Well child,�, Kyle explained, “the way you smile reminds me of a beautiful rainbow after rain. And as mythology goes, Iris was the goddess of the rainbow.�
“I see, from this day on I shall be Iris. I am an orphan and I grew up in this monastery and got lost doing an errand.�, She repeated to herself over and over memorizing that.
“You rest child. You deserve it.�, Kyle said. He stood up and headed towards the door. “Don’t forget you’re Iris now. I’ll handle the friars here. And when you wake, there will be appropriate clothes for you.�, with that said he left the room.
Sari fell asleep almost immediately and didn’t rise until the afternoon. By that time Glen was sitting in the chair, which Kyle had earlier occupied.
“You’re awake!�, he said as Iris sat up in bed. “Friar Kyle said your name was Iris.�
“Yes that’s my name. You are who?�, Iris asked him.
“I’m Glen. I may only be twelve but I tell you I’m useful.�, He said as he puffed out his chest. “I told the friar that you were here and I’m the messenger around here.�
“I can see that, Glen. You don’t have to prove yourself to me.�, she said as she smiled at the child staring adoringly at her.
“You know you’re very pretty especially when you smile.�
“Thank you Glen�, she said as her smile widened into a grin, “You’re a pretty sweet kid.�
“Let’s spend the rest of the day together okay?�, Glen said.
“Sure.�
All Iris’ days were like that. She and Glen spend most of the day together from the morning to the evening. Until a week later Glen was told to go to town to do an errand. Iris waited at the gate at sunset but Glen didn’t arrive.
Iris rushed into Kyle’s office. As soon as Kyle looked up and saw the alarm on her face he stood up and walked over beside her.
“Iris what is it?�, he asked.
“Friar it’s awful�, she started, “Glensaidhe’dbebackbeforesunsetandso--�
“Child calm down.�, Kyle said cutting her off, “Okay breathe and slowly tell me what happened.�
Iris took in a deep breath and began explaining what happened earlier that day.

* * *

It was dawn when Iris saw Glen off from the gates of the abbey. Friar Kyle had told him earlier that he was to deliver very urgent news to a resistance movement hiding in the woods near the village. He was to meet a member of the resistance in the town square and deliver the message. After that he was to buy some grain and then he would go visit his grandmother and his sister.
“I’m going to go now.�, Glen said.
“You’re leaving me behind…�, Iris replied. She was on the brink of tears.
“Don’t worry I’ll be back before sunset. I promise.�, And he was off.
Iris sat there for a long time just staring. When she recovered, she went through the day doing her chores without her usual vigor.
As afternoon approached she regained her usual cheerful disposition. At sunset she ran towards the gates and waited until she couldn’t wait any longer and ran to Kyle’s office.
“I see.�, He said. “Glen probably stayed the night in his grandmother’s house there.�
Iris nodded her head. Even though she wanted to trust Kyle, she was still uneasy. She knew that if Glen promised he’d do something he’d do it, no questions asked.
“Thank you friar.�, She backed out of the room and headed towards her bedroom. She went in and planned on what she would do that evening even though she trusted the friar, she was still worried. She even made a list:

Things to do:

1. grab some money from the treasury
2. grab a map and a weapon
3. also grab clothes from Glenn’s room
4. fix the bed to make it look like I’m asleep
5. climb the outer wall
6. go to town and back before they notice I’m gone

The first to fourth tasks were easy. Iris just snuck in the treasury and took twenty gold pieces. She went into Kyle’s office as soon as it was dark and took a map and put it in her satchel and one of his knives, which she placed in her boot. Before she left her room she already ‘fixed’ her bed and changed into leggings and a tunic, and put her hair in a not. Now it was time for her to climb the outer wall.
The wall was easy to climb even though it was mossy. It was made of stone and would probably be easy to climb.. Still she had to find a good footing or it would be bad for her. It was easy enough despite the fact that she had to grope to find the foot holes.
Okay, she thought to herself, first part no prob. Middle, almost there. Top, oh no! I have to jump. One, two, three.
Thud.
She was out! And she made her way to the road following the map she took. Somehow she made it to the village, in the dark without any light, without any disturbances. About thirty minutes later she arrived at the town. She was shocked to see that the town was burnt to the ground

Iris wandered through the burnt village looking for any signs of life. So far her search was fruitless. All around her were burnt houses and dead bodies of people. Apparently these people were slaughtered as if they were animals. She also entered the houses, which looked more intact. She only found more bodies. Most of them were those of children.
She was outraged. Only bastards would do such a thing to children. Iris went back outside and headed towards the stone church, which evidently was also set on fire. She entered the building through the oaks doors and found a child inside.
“Hello there.�, she said, “Do you know Glen?�
The girl was around eight. She stepped forward and Iris saw that she had hair of the same color as Glen’s, which was cut short and held in place by a ribbon, and almost the same features except that her eyes were hazel unlike Glen’s, which were green. She wore a pale pink dress with long sleeves that hid her arms.
“He was my brother,�, she said, “the men who came probably slaughtered him as they did to all the people who couldn’t hide.�
Iris was devastated. Glen, the boy who loved life so much, who showed her how to be happy without her brother, was probably dead! Slaughtered like some low animal.
“Who are you and how’d you know my brother?�, the child asked her.
“I’m Iris.�, Iris answered, “I was a friend of your brother. I came from the monastery.�
“How would you have known that the village was attacked?�
“I didn’t. I actually got worried about your brother. He said that he’d be back before sunset and he wasn’t so I got worried,�, Iris explained, “he never broke his word you know. What’s your name?�
“I’m Gel.�
“Are you the only survivor of this town Gel?�
“I guess. I’m not really sure.�
At that moment a soldier rushed into the church and attacked Iris. Years of training paid off for she dodged the attack in time. She reached for her knife and used it to block his sword
“<Expletive>. I don’t have time for this�, Iris murmured.
She held the knife like a dagger and slit the man’s throat quickly. She took his sword and searched his pockets. All she found were a few coins and a lot of crumbs. After that she wiped her knife on the man’s shirt. Gel was astounded. This was the first time she saw a woman wield a weapon, let alone kill a man.
“Let’s go Gel there might be some more of them left in this town.�, Iris said as she headed towards the door, “Here this might be needed.� she said as she handed the knife to Gel.
“But I don’t have any idea how to use it.�, Gel argued. She didn’t want to wield a knife. It was way too deadly and she was scared.
Sensing Gel’s fear, Iris reassured her, “Don’t worry it’s only a precaution. You might not really need it but you know, just in case?�
Gel reluctantly took the knife tested its weight. She didn’t know where to put the knife even though it was in a leather scabbard she didn’t have a belt to tuck it into.
“Miss Iris?�, She said in a small voice.
“Just Iris okay?�, Iris said as she turned to face Gel, “What is it?�
“Where do I put the knife?�
Iris took the ribbon out of Gel’s hair and told her to raise her left hand. Iris pushed the sleeve back and tied the knife to her arm.
“If we’re attacked, don’t draw that until nobody sees you and then stab the person in the back.�, Iris instructed.
As they neared the entrance of the town, Gel stopped. She turned around and began to run back to the town specifically, to her grandmother’s house.
“<Expletive>!�, Iris said as she chased after Gel.
She found Gel in front of one of the lesser-burnt houses. Gel was sobbing and it only took one glance for Iris to know why.
In the front hall of the house were two bodies. Both were stabbed so many times and burnt. Iris couldn’t take it and she knew that Gel couldn’t either. She scooped Gel into her arms and got as far away from the house as possible.
When they were back at the entrance, Iris set Gel back on the ground. Gel was still crying and she feared that they would never stop.
“Gel I’m sorry but we don’t have time for this.�, Iris said as she shook the girl.
“Leave me be! I’m all alone now.�, Gel said as she tried to break free of Iris’ hold.
“Gel, we have to go. Somebody might get here and--�
The nearby bushes rustled. Alert at once, Iris drew the sword she took. She put Gel behind her and started towards the bush. A soldier jumped out from behind the bushes and sneered at Iris.
“You’re just a girl.�, He laughed “a very pretty one at that. Gimme want I want and I might let you live.�
“Don’t come near me if you want to live�, was Iris’ reply.
The man laughed at her. He took a lunge at her but was stopped short. Iris saw that a knife was embedded at his gut. She took the liberty of stabbing him in the chest. After the man fell, Iris collected her sword and knife and returned the knife to Gel.
“Good aim Gel.�, Was all she said.
Gel was beaming. Even though she just helped kill a man, though he did look more like an animal than a man he was still after all a man, she was proud of herself because of the praise Iris just gave her.
“Bravo.�
Iris turned around and saw a man in a blue cape. His blond hair tied back by a blue bandana, his hands blue armlets and his sword gleamed in the night.
“Who are you?�, Iris asked the newcomer.
“He is the legendary leader of the rebellion.� Gel said gawking at the man who stood before her, “Seth the Blue Bolt.�
Iris could just stare at the man. He was handsome with his blond hair and blue eyes and his bad boy way of carrying himself. Yes indeed, this man broke many ladies hearts.
“And you are?�, Seth said arching his left eyebrow in question.
“I’m Iris and this is Gel.�, Iris answered. “We’re sisters.�
Gel was about to protest but thought against it whatever Iris was doing, she had a plan. All Gel needed to do was to trust this person whom her brother no doubted trusted.

In all honesty, Iris didn’t have a plan. All she knew was that Glen would’ve wanted her to take care of his sister and that’s what she would do.
“Why did you applaud us just now, Mr. Seth?�, she asked
“Just Seth will do. Mister sounds old.�, he replied, “I applauded you because no man I have ever met has ever killed an elite soldier in a fair fight. Let alone a woman. And believe me I have met many women.�
“I believe you Seth. But now is not a time for my sister and I to talk about such matters.�, she said making sure he thought that she was in a hurry, his assumption was all wrong. The fight wasn’t fair, she had Gel and the man was alone. “if you’ll excuse us, we have to go.�
Iris pulled Gel towards the road but Seth cut her off. He gave her a quick smile and said:
“The road is dangerous for two ladies at night without escorts.�
“We can manage.�
“Bandits crawl the countryside and so do soldiers of the Empire. Both would harm anyone who they think oppose them.�
“And you would make sure that we’re safe?�, Iris asked the doubt clear in her tone and on her face.
“Seth is a good man, Iris.�, Gel said, “We should trust him.�
“Listen to your sister she makes sense.�, Seth said as he stood there waiting for Iris to say something. She was a beautiful lady, he thought, obviously educated both in weapons and in books. She is definitely not one female to cross, whereas her “sister� couldn’t even come close. She was obviously hiding something.
“Fine, we accept your escort.�
They left the town and headed towards the monastery. Every time Seth tried to start a conversation, she would stop him.
She is also one woman who was hard to converse with, he thought. What is her problem?
“Iris do you want to join the rebellion?�
Iris stopped walking. She laughed and faced him, “You know, I think I’m getting tired. I swear I just heard you ask me if I want to join the rebellion.�
“I did ask you.�, He said.
She was silent and continued walking. Gel had fallen asleep earlier and was becoming a burden on her arm.
“Here let me.�, Seth said as he took Gel and carried her. “Well? Will you join us?�
“I’ll give you my answer when we reach the monastery.�
They kept walking in silence until they reached the monastery gate. Iris forgot that she had snuck out. The gate was still closed and she didn’t know what to do.
“Hold Gel.�, Seth said as he put Gel back into her arms.
He climbed the gate, though it looked like he just flew up the gate, and jumped down to the other side. As he landed on the ground he took out his knife and opened the gate.
Iris smiled, “Couldn’t you have done that from the outside?� she asked him
“Well, yes but I wanted you to be amazed by my skill.�
“I would ask you to stay but I only live here. I don’t own the place.�
“I think they know you left. And that you’re back�
“How can you say that?� she asked him.
“Look behind you.�
Iris turned around and saw Friar Kyle rushing towards her and Friar Georg was at his heels. Behind them was none other than Glen.
Iris handed Gel to Seth and rushed to Glen ignoring the two friars before him.
“Glen,�, she said as she hugged him, “you’re alive!�
“Of course I am�, he said as he gave her a strange look, “Why shouldn’t I be?�
“Child we should get back in and hide you and your companions.�, said Kyle.
“Why friar?�
“Just do as I say. Follow Friar Georg.�
They went inside following Georg as he led them to a hidden room behind the altar of the chapel. The room was fairly of the same size as Iris’ room but it was filled with blankets and provisions.
“Hide here and don’t come out till we say so.�, Georg said as he left the room, “Stay with them Glen.�
As the door closed the room got darker. Iris lit all the lamps and faced her companions. They were silent for a few minutes until Glen noticed who the man was and who he was carrying
“Seth sir, I’m very honored to meet you, sir! Gel!�, he exclaimed, “Why is she here?�
“Glen I’m sorry to tell you but your grandmother was killed.�, Iris said.
“That can’t be I was there just this morning!�, he said.
“Look�, Seth interfered, “Why don’t we all take turns telling our story tomorrow, after we all had a good nights sleep?�, he suggested.
Even though they were both eager to tell their stories, they agreed with Seth. After all no one can understand a good story when they would rather go to sleep.
They slept with Glen holding Gel and Seth holding a blanket. Iris lay on her back thinking about her brother and her mother. Both of which were not yet born. She fell asleep thinking about the father she never knew

Seth was the first to rise. In the early morning sun he could see that there was actually a small grill in the wall where the light could pass through. He went towards the provisions and started to eat an apple as he noticed that Iris was crying in her sleep.
With the apple in his hand he sat down beside her and held her. He comforted her and whispered kind words in her ear until she stopped crying. Iris woke up in his arms and thought it was her brother hugging her because she had a bad dream.
“Ken.�, She whispered.
Seth was insulted. He shoved Iris away and held her at arms length. Iris was fully awake now and was steaming.
How dare he touch me when I was asleep, she thought. Iris was outraged. Seth didn’t have any right to hold her that way. He acted as if they were more than just acquaintances.
How dare she, he thought. He comforts her and what’s the thanks he gets? Being called another man’s name.
“You had no right to do that--�, they both said at the same time.
“I had no right? It was you who didn’t--�, again at the same time.
“Shut up you two.�, Glen said as he rubbed the sleep from his eyes, “Since you woke Gel and me.� Taking a look at Seth and Sari he knew that he had to be the peacemaker. “I guess now is the time for our stories?�

Glen was the first to tell his tale. Simple really, he was ordered by the friar to go to the village next to his. He stopped by their place and left just after his sister went out.
“That explains why I never saw you leave, brother.�, Gel said when she heard his explanation.
He ran a little late and got in after mealtime. He reported to Kyle that he delivered the message and was told to go to Iris in the morning. Unfortunately he was hardheaded and went to her room when every one was asleep and saw her plans on the desk. Glen ran to Kyle’s chamber and woke him to tell him that Iris was missing and they were about to search the grounds as she walked in with Seth and Gel.
Iris went next. She told them of how worried she was because Glen was late and of how she rushed into Kyle’s office to tell him of her concern. Then she told them of how she took the knife and the map and how she scaled the wall to get out.
She told them of the way the village looked when she walked in and the houses burnt and the bodies everywhere. She told them everything and until the part where Gel stabbed a man they were all silent.
“My sister raised a knife against a fellow human being?�, he said unconvinced that his kind, silent and soft spoken sister could do such a thing.
“I did.�, Gel argued, “Besides he smelled worst than the garbage. And looked worse than a pig.�
“I don’t believe--�
“Believe it�, Seth said cutting Glen off, “I saw it with my own two eyes. Your sister here is deadly and if given the right training she could be an assassin.�
They stopped the argument and Iris continued her recounting. When she ended Seth noted that she left out his offer.
Gel told them of how she saw her brother that morning and then she went out to play. The next thing she knew men were attacking the village and people were screaming. She ran towards the church and hid in the confessional booth and fell asleep until Iris came in.
“Okay Seth,�, said Glen, “How’d you get tangled up into all this?�
“I wasn’t done yet!�, Gel whined and scowled at her brother.
“We all know what happened after Iris found you.�, he said setting a scowl just like hers, “We don’t need another retelling.�
“Yes we do!�
“No we don’t!�
“YES WE DO!�
“NO WE DON’T!�
“YES WE DO!�
“Stop it you two,�, Iris interrupted, “I want to hear what Seth has to say about himself.�
“Sorry Iris.�, they both said bowing their heads.
“Okay, you sure you want to hear this?�, asked Seth.
“Don’t try to weasel your way out Seth,�, Iris said, “you heard our stories. It’s time we heard yours.�
“Fine, here goes.�

“I used to be in the army.�, Seth began, “There I used to serve the emperor and I was among his most trusted of generals.�
Seth took in a deep breath and tried to calm himself. Every time he recalls those days he was infuriated.
Iris saw how uneasy Seth was. She decided that she should help him. If it hurt to talk about it, she would simply help him show it.
“Seth,�, she began, “close your eyes and concentrate on that memory.�
“What?�, he asked puzzled at her request. How would concentrating on those awful days help him tell them about it?
“Trust me.�
And so he did. He thought about his first day as a general. His shining armor, his well-combed hair and his devil-may-care smile set on his face.
Iris held on to his fore head and concentrated like she did with her memory. A thick fog gently surrounded them. Gel started to sob; afraid of the things she didn’t understand.
“It’s alright,�, she said, “we’ll be fine.�
The fog continued to cover them until they could barely see each other. Then a strange shape came out of the fog.
It was a grand castle. Greater by far from all the castles she had ever seen. In the courtyard she saw soldiers were all sparring.
There was Seth, training his men. Leading the exercises. Then, the fog thickened. The next scene was Seth walking up to the emperor. The emperor features were fuzzy. Only Seth knew what he looked like.
Then the fog shifted again. This time it was the emperor and another man. They appeared to be talking about something.
“Have you heard sire?�, the man asked, “one of the commanders found the rebel army’s stronghold.�
“Yes, I have heard. We’ve found their pitiful excuse for a stronghold.�, The emperor replied. “I sent a spy in to infiltrate them.�, he laughed a spin-chilling laugh, “When he did his job I simply had him killed.�
The Seth in the memory backed away and ran. He ran to the stables and got his horse.
“Good travels to you milord.�, said the gatekeeper as he left the palace gates.
Seth rode until he was at Lenkamp, the next town to the imperial capital. There he stayed at the inn unknowing that the room he was given contained a secret entrance to the rebel’s headquarters.
When he was sleeping, he heard a creak. A wall in the room moved and a child emerged from the stairs. Seth immediately drew his sword and threatened the child.
“Please sir,�, the child began, “I’ve enough violence for one day. I only wish to go home.�
“Fine go to your home and leave me in peace.�, Seth replied. He was tired, emotionally and physically. All day he rode with the emperor’s words in his head, “When he did his job I simply had him killed.�
“I’d love to just go home sir but--�
“What child?�, he said softening his tone so as the child wouldn’t be afraid.
“There is a lady down there, sir.�, the child said. “She was wounded by the soldiers while she was protecting me. Can you please see to her?�
Seth could only nod his head. As the child left the room, he descended the stairs. Below was a sewer. In this sewer, were a table and the flag of the rebel army.
“Johnny?�, said a weak female voice, “You should go home.�
Seth followed the voice and came upon the most beautiful woman he ever saw. Even though her ebony hair was tousled and her green eyes showed pain, clearly this woman was a noble. She turned her head and saw him. Her features changed from a nice and caring look to one of rage.
“If you’ve come to kill me do it quickly.�, she said, clearly she unafraid to die.
“No.�, he said. “Who are you?�
“As if you don’t know.�, She sighed. It was plain to see on her that she didn’t believe him. “I am Elena of Lunais.�
“Surely not the Elena of Lunais. The leader of the Rebel army?�, Seth said rendered speechless by her.
“One and the same,�, She said as her face contorted in pain. “and it’s the Liberation Army not Rebel. Who are you?�
“I am General Seth of the Crescent Moon Empire. Leader of the Blood Battalion.�
“Seth of the Rapid Blade? The fastest swordsman in the land?�
“Yes. Until a few hours ago when I found out that the emperor was evil.�
“I have two requests to make of you Seth.�, she said, as se moaned in pain. She knew that she only had a few more minutes.
Ever the gentleman, he couldn’t refuse her, “What?�
She smiled. “First, when I die, dump my body into that creek so as the empire won’t make a show of it.�, she said
“Alright,�, he said, even though he did not like it, “and the second? �
“Find everyone and anyone willing to fight the oppression and lead the rebellion until the prophecy comes true.�
“Prophecy?�, he asked.
“It’s on the table.�, she said gesturing towards the table. “Will you do it?�
“Yes. But how can you be so sure you can trust me?�
“Because like me, you were betrayed by our emperor.�
“Oh.�, He said uncertain of what he had to do.
She smiled once more and gave him her broach. On it he could see a map of the world and red dots covered some places.
“What’s this?�, he asked
“The red dots indicate rebel hideouts. Use that map well.�
The stairs creaked again. Elena knew just by the footsteps that this intruder was a foe not friend.
“Hide in the shadows.�, She urged Seth, “And don’t come out till it’s safe.�
The emperor walked in with his court magician, Claudia just as Seth concealed himself using a blue robe that he found. The emperor only took one glance at Elena and said:
“She is dead. There is no way we can torture her now. At least now we can dispose of the body and call her a traitorous coward.�
He kicked Elena’s body into the creek, laughed manically and left. Seth emerged from the shadows hours later, still partially frozen because he of the inhuman look in the emperors eyes. He took the prophecy from the table and departed.

They were all astonished at what they saw. Partly because of Seth’s past, and partly because Iris just did magic, but the most shocking part was that Iris looked a lot like the emperor, with his blond hair and blue eyes.
“What is the emperor’s name?�, Iris asked Seth when she regained her voice.
“The Flaxen Imperator.�, Was his reply, “Of course that was the name given to him by his adversaries.�
“The Flaxen Imperator…�, Iris said, “What is his real name?�
“Why would you want to know that?�, Seth asked as he raised his eyebrows.
Iris remained silent. I cannot tell him anything. It would be bad if papa was really the emperor. That was a funny thought. My father, the emperor? As if! He would never hurt anyone. At least not from the descriptions mother gave me.
“Cole.�
“Excuse me?�, Iris asked.
“The emperor is Cole.�, Seth explained.
Iris was shocked. Cole was the name of her late father. The man in the portrait above the living room fireplace, the man who had died in an accident. This couldn’t be a mere coincidence.
“How long has he been emperor?�, she asked.
“Eleven years now.�
Iris only nodded. Eleven years. The same amount of time that her father has been gone, now this really wasn’t coincidence.
“Why do you ask of him?�, Seth inquired, “Is he a relative of yours?�
“Why would you assume that?�, Iris said, rather nervously.
“The same hair, almost the same hair, maybe a few shades lighter though.�
“Oh…�
Glen sensed that Iris needed a distraction but he didn’t know what to do. Gel solved his problem.
“I’m hungry.�, she said.
They all laughed, Gel included. Glen laughed so hard that he fell to the ground and that caused more laughter. Seth went to the supplies and searched for food.
As they ate, Gel, Glen and Seth talked. About what, Iris didn’t know or care. All she could think about was that her father could possibly be the emperor, the cause of all this trouble. And if he were the emperor, then she would be the imperial princess. If she was the princess then she was an enemy of the rebellion.
“Iris?�
Gel brought her out of her daze. Iris noticed that they were all staring at her, waiting for her input.
“What did you say again?�, she asked looking at Gel.
“I asked you how long we’d be here.�, Gel replied.
Iris looked to the grill and saw that outside the sun was setting. She stood up and started to walk over to the grill but Gel got there first and looked outside. Iris was about to tell Gel to get down when she screamed.
“What is it?�, Seth asked.
Gel didn’t answer she just stood there silently. Glen couldn’t take it. Since Iris looked like she was also frozen to the spot, he took his sister away from the grill and took a peek at what stunned both ladies.
He was shocked to see that in the courtyard were the bodies of his friends and superiors. All of them were massacred. Blood stained the courtyard and in the center of it all hung two bodies, both were equally battered.
Glen couldn’t take it anymore. He moved to set down Gel for she had fainted. Then he took Iris’ hand, led her to the cot and made her sit. Seth walked over to the grill and looked outside. He saw everything, the scattered bodies, the blood and the two hanging bodies.
“Who did they hang?�, Seth asked.
Iris faced him, her whole expression melancholy as she said:
“Friar Kyle and Friar Georg.�
She burst out in tears and so did Glen. So what if someone sees me crying, he thought to himself, I lost almost every one, Grandma, Friar Kyle, Friar Georg and all of my friends so why shouldn’t I cry?
Seth’s reaction was not seen. He hid himself in the shadows and waited for their tears to stop. He saw that Glen leaned over to say something to Iris and fell asleep. Seth moved closer to Iris to comfort her.
“Are you going to be alright?�, he asked as he sat down beside her.
She just looked at him for a long time. He saw that her eyes were red and puffy and her nose was red. Seth thought that she had lost her voice. He was about to ask her when she spoke.
“I’m fine.�, she said as she stared into his eyes, “Will you be alright? I know you were close with the friars.�
Seth taken aback, how would she know that? He was about to ask her, when she explained.
“Glen told me earlier, before he when to sleep.�
“Oh…�
Seth moved off the cot, went back to the corner and slept. Iris thought back to when she was just five years old when she thought she lost her beloved father.
She and her brother Kenneth were in the study being tutored when her mother burst in and dismissed the tutor.
“Children,�, Myrrh said, “your father is lost to us.�
Ken, who was the smarter twin, understood immediately and started to cry. Sari however, had a hard time getting the point.
“Perhaps papa is just hiding.�, she said, “Maybe he wants us to play and find him.�
Ken remained silent as Myrrh convinced Sari that her father was indeed dead. When she finally accepted the truth, she cried and locked herself in her room. Only Ken had been allowed to enter it for he was after all her twin.
Iris smiled as she recalled her stubbornness. She still was very stubborn of course but she also changed. She was no longer Sari, a princess but she was Iris, a simple girl brought up in a monastery.
Seth moaned in the darkness. Iris decided not to dwell on her thoughts and get some rest; after all she would not only be useless but also a hindrance if she were weak.

Iris was awakened by a noise in the courtyard. She sat up and listened, afraid of what she would have seen. She looked around the room to see if any one else was awake. Seth was standing and was concentrating, listening to the sounds outside.
When she finally got the courage, she stood and looked out through the grill. She saw soldiers gathering all the bodies and piling them on one top of one another. She motioned to Seth to come near her. When he did she moved aside for him to see through the grill. He pulled her away from grill and set her on the cot.
“Listen, those are imperial soldiers.�, he started to say, “I’m going to go out there and--�
“No,�, she said, “if you go out there now you’ll most likely be killed. Let’s wait until dawn to do anything.�
Seth agreed and went to his corner. He was planning on getting some sleep but all he could do was plan for the next day.
Iris was also unable to sleep. All she could think about was that the soldiers out there were from empire. If they were from the empire, the emperor had sent them. And the emperor could be her father. She was with Seth, the leader of the rebellion and an enemy of the empire. This could mean serious trouble for Seth.
“Iris do you want to join the rebellion?�, he had asked her. She couldn’t make the decision then and she couldn’t now. Then her excuse was that the friars might not agree but now she found out that her father was the emperor and…
If her father was the emperor, she corrected herself. If he was the emperor there was no choice. Her mother had taught her well. Stand with family was what her mother taught her and if the emperor were her father then, she would join him and crush the rebels, Seth included. And if he weren’t then she wouldn’t worry. She would take Seth up on his offer, but only after she made sure that Gel and Glen were safe.
With her mind made up, Iris slept. She tossed and turned the whole night. All her dreams were of her brother.

“Iris wake up.�, Seth said as he shook her.
“No, five more minutes Ken.�, she murmured, obviously still half-asleep.
There was that name again! Seth thought, who the <expletive> was Ken? Was he her betrothed? And why should I care? She means nothing to me and I mean nothing to her. Even as he tried he couldn’t get himself to believe his own lies.
Iris sat up and looked around the room. She stared at the grill so long that Seth wanted to ask her if she saw something outside when she fell back to the cot and slept.
Seth laughed. Iris amused him even in her sleep. But now wasn’t a time for laughs, he reminded himself. He tried to wake her again. This time she did wake and she asked him:
“Do we wake them now?�
Seth nodded as he sat there, waiting for her to wake them. She was good with the children, he thought, so why shouldn’t she wake them? Iris didn’t agree though.
“Help me wake them.�, she ordered him.
“You wake them�, he said irritation visible in his face, “I’ve been through enough waking you.�
Iris would have retorted but Glen stirred and sat up. He looked at them through sleepy eyes and asked:
“Are we to go now?�
Iris nodded and Seth looked away. Glen moved to wake Gel. When she came round, he moved to the supplies and packed what he thought would be necessary for their journey.
All the time Iris was seething. This was the second time that Seth got her so mad that she wanted to do something violent. The only person who could do that and get away with it was her brother and no one else.
Seth was also apoplectic. This mere girl was getting under his skin and he didn’t like it. There was no way that she would get to do this again without his punishing her. After all he was a man of twenty. More importantly, he was a man.
“Where do we go?�
That came from Gel. Since Iris didn’t have a clue where to go, she turned to Seth raising her eyebrows in question.
Seth knew that Iris didn’t like feeling useless and turning to him. Also that she was putting common sense before pride. He respected her for that. When she knew that she didn’t know anything, she didn’t hesitate to give the authority to some one else.
“We’ll go to Whitecas Castle.�, he said.
Both children were ecstatic. They clearly knew where that place was and what it was. Before she could ask what that place was Glen said:
“We’re going to the rebel headquarters!�
“Fine,�, she said to Seth, “we’ll go there. After that what do we do? War is no place for children.�
“Or women,�, he agreed, “we’ll think of something. But now we leave.�

They left the room and searched the whole monastery by pairs: Seth with Gel and Iris with Glen. The first pair went off to find weapons while the second searched for food supplies. They rendezvoused in the front hall thirty minutes later, ready to hit the road.
Seth handed Iris and Glen each a sword and a knife. To Gel he gave a bow and a quiver of arrows.
“There,�, he said, “we’re all armed.�
They left the monastery and made their way to Whitecas Castle. Iris as still furious at Seth, how dare he say that war is no place for women. She wanted to remind him that Elena was a woman but decided against it, after all Elena had died. If she reminded him of that, he would probably shut her up in a tower. On the other hand, he is contradicting himself. Only a few days ago, he asked her to join the rebellion but now…
Seth was berating himself. Iris had already proved to him that she is very much capable of taking care of any one who would cross her but here he was telling her that she could not handle herself in a war. He must be very weary or very stupid to do that.
“Glen,�, Seth said, motioning Glen to come near him.
“Yes sir?�
“How would you like to join the army?�, Seth asked him.
Glen was thrilled. He had always admired the rebels. Always wanted to join but…
“What about my sister?�, he asked.
“I admire your concern for others, you would make a fine soldier. Gel would not be trained,�, Seth said, “but she would be taken care of.�
Glen nodded. If his sister would be taken care of that would be fine. That way he’ll get to do something he always wanted to.
Iris over-heard their conversation and went over to them. She wanted to rant at Seth. She wanted to kill Seth. Hang him upside-down over a vat of boiling oil or…
“Iris,�, Gel said, “slow down. I can’t catch up.�
Iris just picked Gel up and rushed to Glen and Seth. When she did reach them she set Gel in Glen arms, pulled Seth away from the children and punched him in the face.
“What did you do that for?�, Seth asked her.
“You should know.�, with that she stormed off.
After an hour of walking in silence they reached the entrance of a forest, Iris wanted to apologize to Seth. She walked to him and started to say something.
“Seth, I wanted to--�
“Shush or the imperial army would hear you.�

Seth made them stop and make camp there.
“If we go directly to Whitecas, we might be followed.�, he explained, “We should camp here and wait them out.�
Iris agreed. They set up camp and separated again into groups. This time though, Iris was with Gel and Seth was with Glen.
“We’re going hunting.�, Seth had reasoned, “You’re only gathering wood.�
She was going to gather wood with Gel but decided to show Seth that Gel could handle being by herself. She ordered Gel to gather the wood and do it all alone. Iris was going to go into the imperial camp. If only the emperor was there, that would save her all the trouble.
She left the camp with nothing but her knife. She left the sword because if she did bring it, the soldiers would be on her in a fraction of a second. She hid the knife in her sleeve the same way she hid Gel’s.
Iris made her way down the slope careful to avoid loose rocks. She wanted stealth so she crept up to the camp. As she neared the camp a sword came to her throat.
“What do we have here?�, the soldier asked.
Iris straightened and turned to face the soldier, careful to avoid the sword. His brown hair and even browner eyes looked familiar. It took her a moment to realize that he was…
“Kemy!�, she exclaimed.
“Sari!�, he said, “What are you doing here? You’re supposed to be in the monastery where I left you�
“Uhh… about that,�, she said, “I’m not Sari actually.�
“Then,�, he said, “who are you?�
“I’m Iris.�, she explained, “I used to be Sari but I changed my name.�, she told him about the slaughter.
He couldn’t believe her words. The empire would not do such a thing. He knows that because he was an imperial knight, one of the highest ranks and he couldn’t believe that his emperor would do such a thing.
“The emperor wouldn’t do such a thing.�, he said.
“That is why I’m here.�, Iris explained, “I want to go to the capital and meet with him.�
“You don’t need to go that far.�, he said with a smile, “The emperor is here, in this camp. I’ll take you, if you want.�
Iris accepted his offer and followed him into camp. Inside there were a lot of soldiers. About a whole battalion, she guessed.
“Kemy,�, she said, “can I see the emperor immediately? I have somewhere to else go to after this.�
“I’ll try. But no one can see the emperor so quickly.�
“Show him this.�, Iris said as she bared her left arm and revealed a birthmark. The birthmark was that of a crescent moon, the symbol of the empire. Kemeny only nodded. He went into the royal tent and asked permission from the court magician to have an audience with the emperor.
“It is a must that I speak with him.�, he said.
Claudia, the magician agreed to let him in. But as he started to pull Iris inside, Claudia stopped him.
“Who is she?�, she asked, ‘You only asked if you can speak with our liege, you did not say anything about her.�, she pointed to Iris.
“She’s the reason why I need to see the emperor.�, he replied.
“If you want to marry, can’t it wait until we crush those rebels?�
Iris was shocked. Why on earth would she be married? She was only sixteen, a minor!
“Or if she is pregnant, can’t you send her to your home without bothering the emperor.�
Now Iris was steaming. This obnoxious woman was suggesting that she was a slut or something probably worse.
“Let me in there.�, Iris said, “I have urgent business with the emperor. I believe this will let me through.�, she showed Claudia her birthmark.
“Fine. Go on inside.�, Claudia said as she pulled the curtain open.
Inside Iris saw a person she had not seen for more than a decade. Her papa.

Iris finally met the emperor. Kemeny bowed low to acknowledge his sovereign but Iris did not.
“Kemeny,�, Cole said, “Who is this girl who refuses to bow to me?�
“Your Highness,�, Kemeny replied, “She is--�
“I am Iris,�, she said cutting Kemeny off, “and I wish to have a private audience with you.�
Cole admired the girl’s spunk. She did not fear him, that was obvious, but neither did she seem to respect him. And there was something about her that seemed rather familiar.
“Leave us Kem.�, he commanded the knight.
As Kemeny left, Iris moved closer to the emperor. He couldn’t believe this girl. She was daring to go near him and without his permission!
“Who are you girl?�, he asked her, “No use lying to me, the name Iris doesn’t seem to be yours.�
“It is mine now.�, she said, seriously, “But you are correct, Iris is not my real name. I was once called Sari.�
Cole was shocked. Sari was the name of his daughter who was born in the twentieth century. This must be just a coincidence.
Iris showed him her left arm. Cole still couldn’t believe it. His twin children, Ken and Sari, both had those birthmarks. Ken had his on his right, Sari on her left. That was the sign that they were next in line to rule.
“Sari,�, he said with tears in his eyes, “how long has it been? Eleven years?�
“Yes papa.�, she said she on the brink of crying herself. Finally she was reunited with her beloved father; finally he could see all her achievements.
Cole hugged his daughter. After eleven years, his daughter was a beauty. After eleven years, he held his daughter in his arms. After eleven years, he had changed.
“Sari,�, he said, “how did you get here?�
She told him about everything, well almost; she left out the part about Seth and her suspicions. Her father listened to her and asked her to explain her magic. She couldn’t because to explain she would have to show her memories and to show them meant she had to show him Seth and if that happened…
“Papa, I’m exhausted.�, she reasoned, “Can’t this wait?�
Cole could never refuse his daughter anything. He made her rest and went outside. There he called Kemeny.
“Kem,�, he said, “I thank you for finding my daughter. I give you my gratitude. Also I give you the job of protecting her. Swear it Kem upon your oath as a knight that you’ll protect her, to death if necessary.�
“I swear sire.�
As Cole walked away to find gowns that would suit his daughter. Kemeny stood there wondering whom the emperor meant.

Seth and Glenn returned to camp to find Gel all alone and crying. As Glenn comforted his sister, Seth scanned the area looking for Iris.
“Where’s Iris?�, Seth asked Gel after he found no trace of Iris.
“I don’t know…�, Gel said in between sobs, “After you left, she told me to go find the wood all by myself…�
“<Expletive>, why did she do that?�, Seth asked, “And where’s the wood?�
“I don’t know�, Gel said as she stood showing them all the wood she had gathered. “When I came back I found her sword on the ground and nothing else.�
“Seth, do you think she was captured y the empire?�, Glenn asked, alarm in his voice evident.
“She wasn’t.�, Seth said, “by the looks of things, she left by choice. And no one took her.�
“Why would she do that?�, they both asked him.
“I don’t know, but whatever the reason, I’ll find out. And I’ll find Iris, just stay here and hide okay?�
Glenn agreed, he took Gel and Iris’ sword and hid. Meanwhile, Seth climbed the tree and made his way towards the imperial camp.

Iris wore a pale pink gown that was, as Claudia put it, fit for a princess. But she knew different. Iris had been raised to know quality, even if it was aged, and this gown was obviously of poor cloth and of poorer seamstress. But she didn’t complain. It was better than her tunic which was starting to smell.
As she walked through camp, whispers followed her. She knew what they were thinking, how can she be the princess? She also knew how to handle it, not to mind it unless she was confronted.
Kemy came up to her and started following her. Iris guessed that he was ordered by her father to protect her. Obviously he doesn’t know me. I saved Kemy before; more or less he needs me, not the other way around.
“Uhh… Kemy?�, Iris said, “why are you following me?�
“Well, your majesty I--�, he started to say but Iris broke him off
“Kemy, you know me. And you know that I’d rather not be addressed that way.�
“But princess, your father told me to do so.�
“Fine!�, Iris conceded, “But why walk 5 steps behind me?�
“It’s what’s proper.�
Iris kept silent. I know it’s proper and I should be used to that. But… only after a month of being normal…
“INTRUDER!�
The alarm woke brought her back to reality. She was being pushed by Kemy towards her father’s tent. But Seth stopped her from entering.
“Iris!�, Seth said as he started to pull her, “There you are! We have to go know before anyone catches me.�
“You won’t take the princess�, Kemy said as he pushed his way in front of Iris.
“Princess?�, Seth asked, “What princess? The emperor has no daughter.�
“You’ve obviously been away from the empire way too long. I’m guessing you don’t even know the high-ups anymore.�
“Well since I know you, that must mean you aren’t that high-up yet Kemeny.�, Seth said as he tried to make his way to Iris.
Iris was getting fed up. She felt like an idiot standing there while Seth and Kemy were arguing.
“Seth,�, she said as she made her way between them, “I’m the princess and-�
“You?�, he scoffed, cutting Iris off, “A princess? There’s no way--�
Seth didn’t have a chance to finish his sentence. Both Iris and Kemy punched his cheek. Kemy did it because Seth insulted Iris. Iris did it because she didn’t like Seth to begin with and was waiting for a reason to hit him.
“What was that for?�, Seth asked, rubbing his left cheek. Sheesh, Iris punched me harder than Kemy.
Neither Kemy nor Iris had a chance to answer him. Behind them was the emperor, looking amuzed.

Glen and Gel were shocked. They were hiding behind the bushes and heard everything. Iris was a princess and she was the daughter of the man who killed their grandma. They couldn’t get over their alarm.
“Seth you should leave before my papa gets angry.�, Iris/Sari said.
“Iris…�, he began.
“Go,�, she said, “or face my wrath as well as my papa’s.�
He didn’t move. Instead he drew his knife and seized Iris. He held the knife at her throat, daring any one to come closer.
“How dare you, Seth.�, Iris said as she stood still, keeping her neck as far way from the knife as she could, “You will hang for this.�
He just ignored her. He faced her father and his men and said
“Come one step closer and I’ll slit her throat.�
The emperor just laughed. He knew Seth and Seth would never harm an innocent.
“You wouldn’t hurt a fly.�, he said, “And you wouldn’t hurt my daughter. You know she is innocent and if you harm her you will be just like me. A murderer.�
“You were the one who set fire to the village and massacred every one?�
“Yes. The friars too, I especially enjoyed beating that Kyle into a pulp. Especially since I heard he harbored you.�
Iris could not believe her ears. Her father a murderer, that can’t be true. She was going to barf. Her father was describing every single gory detail of the murder. This can’t be true, she repeated to herself over and over until she screamed it out loud.
“THIS CAN’T BE TRUE!!!�
Seth turned her over and held her tight. She was crying for what reason, he didn’t know and he didn’t care, only that she was crying and that she needed comfort. He found it odd that he couldn’t feel tears but instead he felt her smile.
“Get your hands off my daughter.�, Cole roared as her took a step towards them.
Iris looked up and glared at him. She, like her mother, could not stand injustice. She got out of Seth’s arms and drew her knife.
Cole was shocked. His daughter drew a knife out from her right arm. Now, she was charging at him. He just stood there as she slashed his cheek. She would have probably killed him if his men did not intervene. He looked at her face and only saw anger there. Gone were her laughter and her happiness. Gone was the little girl in her. Here was the wrathful side of a beautiful person. Here she was a battle maiden ready to kill any and every one who kept her from her goal.
He took a look around him. There was Seth kneeling before him, overpowered by his men, Kem looking confused, unsure of what to do. And then there was his daughter, helplessly struggling against the men who held her.
“Let them go.�, he commanded his men.
“But sir�, a soldier protested, “Seth is valuable. If he is gone then the rebels would--�
“I know that.�, Cole said, “but there will be another day. Let them go.�
The soldiers did as they were told. Iris and Seth walked out of the camp and headed towards theirs. Seth gave the signal and Glen and Gel followed them.
“Kem,�, Cole said, “follow my daughter and protect her. Gain their trust. Don’t send us messages just keep your oath and protect my daughter.�
Kem nodded and followed after the group. Cole went back to his tent and sought his magician’s advice.