~ Mia ~
We agreed as long he is being monitored 24/7; then I do not mind him by the palace. However, if he betrays us, it is over. Early that morning, I felt an arm around me, “Morning, beautiful.” Anisel smiled. "Good morning, my fine sir. Did you get things done last night?" “Doubting my skills, I see?? But I did everything I needed to relax today. I wish you cleared your schedule so we can be together.” He pouted as he wrapped himself around my body and rubbed my stomach. I wish I could clear my schedule too, but I have a doctor's appointment today. After that, I have a meeting with my brother. He nodded his head and curled up into a ball. What a cutie. Mikhal entered the room to help me start my day. He picked out regular clothes as it was hard to fit my dresses. I am four months pregnant, and it is beginning to show. All my clothes are right fitting and need to be altered. After getting ready, I kissed my sleepy husband goodbye and walked toward the dining hall. I usually just grab and go due to my work, but Mihkal made me sit and eat properly. "Good morning, your highness. Hope you got a good night's rest because stressing is not in the schedule." He asked. "That's my goal. I want a nice day while Anisel is off. I don't want to bother him in any kind of way." As I chowed my food, Mihkal asked about yesterday's meeting with Matthew. He heard about him sitting on my throne. I just sipped my organs juice and spoke nothing. As I said a minute ago, I want a peaceful day. Quickly, he slipped in the approval of the land if it was rejected. What did he mean by that?? Was I supposed to reject it?? Did Anisel??? I glanced at Hamon, whose eyes were facing another way. Are you freaking serious!!! Anisel is going to kill me!!! Matthew will die for pulling that stunt. This will be an exciting conversation soon. After breakfast, I went to the doctor's office for a check-up. When I walked in, I noticed the new heart monitor in the corner. They can read accurate information about our beats. We are getting there. It didn't take long for the checkup. I had to do some blood tests, he had to check the fetus's condition, and we had to discuss the health of my body. It took at least twenty minutes tops. After that, I had time to walk around before meeting Jabrel. As we were walking, I spotted a woman who I didn't recognize. So, I went up to her with open arms. "Hello, nice day we are having," I said. She jumped a little out of fear. "Oh, your highness, you scared me. I didn't see you there, and yes! It is a nice day." She said with a warm smile on her face. I wondered about the reason for her visit. "I just moved here not too long ago. I live north of the main kingdom. I was just buying fruit as they are delicious here." She stated. She wasn't wrong about that; we do have the best fruit. However, it felt odd as I knew she was from a foreign country. Her accent was firm which I don't judge. At times I still have an American accent. I bowed and told her to have a good day. Hamon and Mihkal kept weird expressions like something was off. Hamon leaned in my ear to keep a close eye on her. We arrived at the main gate of the palace, and we saw Hazel and Joshua standing inside a sitting area. They were wearing their uniforms. What do they have to do today?? But they sure look good, like always. “Hey guys, where are you going today?” I asked with a gentle smile. They bowed unison, “We have to meet with the former king and queen. They are halfway here, and they will need proper protection.” Hazel said. "Are you taking Joshua with you as well??" Hazel looked at her boyfriend and stated he always needed to be supervised. He has been placed on suspension until further notice. Since Hazel is the leader, she should do it. While we were talking, a car pulled up. When did we get cars?? Hazel mentioned Matthew brought them in and wanted us to get used to technology. We sent them off as they entered. Not going to lie– it is an excellent way to travel. Jabrel was waiting for me in the throne room with Lily beside him. They bowed in my presence. "What do you want to talk about, Mia?" he asked. "About a gender reveal event for the citizens." "REALLY!!! ARE YOU REALLY GOING TO DO IT!! Even when a war is about to start??" Jabrel shouted. It was nothing big, just a small event to get people optimistic about something. All they have to do is wear pink or blue. Then I will reveal the gender in the central plaza. Whoever guesses right will receive a gift. That's all. Lily liked that idea, but Jabrel was worried about the war. I know it is stressful, but we have to do something positive. The couple looked at each other; Hamon averted his eyes. Mikhal was the one who had the same look as me. "What are you not telling me??" “Anisel hasn't told you about the letter?” Jabrel asked. Of course not. What letter?? “A letter was thrown through your window the other night. They asked for money, or the war would commence immediately.” My body froze– why didn't he tell me?? Why is he keeping secrets? I realized Anisel got nightly duties unless it was something urgent. Was it because they were coming up with a plan?? Then I put two and two together as my parents didn't need extra protection. I already sent about fifteen guards to get them. Why didn't I notice before?? Anisel and I needed to talk because he was in big trouble.I order Hamon and Mihkal to search the palace for my husband. I wanted to wait until tomorrow, but this is important. As we looked, I noticed he wasn't in the bedroom or office, which he usually is. I even went to check the kitchen, and nothing. I searched in Hazel’s palace section and was nowhere to be seen. I peeked out the window toward the garden to see him talking to Matthew. So, I rushed out there to catch them. "Well, hello, my beautiful wife. What's the fire??" Anisel asked. Matt just stood there looking at me with his smirk. "We need to talk now!" "Of course, my love," he said in confusion. We didn't even sit before I told him what my brother and Lily had said. “I was going to let you know, but I didn't want you under more stress.” That is something you do not keep from me. We are in this together, and I feel like we are drifting away in this situation. I turned to Matthew, who said nothing and smiled. I scold him for even doing that stunt. He shrugged his shoulders and
~ Mia ~ Nothing occurred yesterday instead for servants running around. My parents should arrive soon; Jabrel and I haven't seen them since the banishment. My mom was in prison before she made that decision. To have them back is like getting spit stuck in your throat. Jabrel, Anisel, and I waited by the front gate. We had on our best outfits to look presentable, at least. Jabrel spotted the car and fixed himself. My hands become sweaty, and I can feel my legs shaking. When the car came to a halt, Josuha and Hazel came out. They changed clothes and had smiles on their faces. "We are honored to welcome your former king and queen!" Hazel said as she bowed as she opened the door. There they were– my parents looking worn out. I couldn't help the tears that formed. When my mom's eyes landed on me, she greeted me with open arms. I ran to her for a hug. Jabrel did the same. "I missed you so much," I said while I cried in my mom's arms. "Mia, it's good to see you well. You too, Jabrel and
~ Many Years Ago ~ Imagine you walking down a dirt road with people wearing just robes and nothing on their feet—children shaking in the cold, begging for food and water. The neighborhood is infested with files as bodies lay across the street. This is my home, the kingdom of Satia—a beautiful country where even people experiencing poverty have beauty. Our neighborhood wasn't like this until the tyrants threatened the low-income citizens like trash. They left us with nothing but the clothes on our backs. Tents and broken-down buildings are what we call a shelter. There are no stores to shop for fresh food or water. The garbage from the main kingdom flows down into our river and clouds it up. The citizens of Satia have nothing but rats. I can't believe I'm about to have a healthy baby boy in this run-down place. When I got home, my boyfriend, Khali, glanced out the window. "I'm home!" I said as I placed the basket down. "Still nothing, honey??" “No, just rotten fruit and stale b
~ Anisel ~ Who would have thought the Dean brothers would be back in the neighborhood? Returning to this broken-down place felt odd; however, it felt good to be home. Mia, Hazel, Joshua, Jabrel, Lily, and I began to search around to find anything that would give us a lead. If Mia’s parents can't tell us the truth, we must find it ourselves. As we stepped down the dirt road, I reminisced the fun memories of smearing mud on the people. The neighborhood looks the same after all these years but is abandoned. “I remember throwing mud at the guards that marched past here, but to find out it was horse shit and one of them had some of it in the mouth.” Joshua laughed. “I remember that— puke up a lung when I found it. Mom had me sleep outside for days, and we got grounded for two months. Best night of our lives.” “Not like that time when we pick-pocketed those nobles and threw their money like it was raining. Those citizens were having a ball.” Joshua said. Hazel wanted to laugh but
~ Mia ~ “Now, why would I tell?? I haven't gotten a compromise yet. I still want my money.” Sera said. “There is no compromise here. We don't have your request, so I inform you to leave immediately.” Anisel said as he held the gun up. “Then why didn't you tell me you wanted a war? I would have been happy to go over the plans with you.” Sera chuckled. She pulled out her gun and aimed it at Joshua. His face tensed up as he dropped his weapon to the ground. She knew that we were going to be here as she was watching us. That which. I see why they hated her– her personality sucks. She doesn't even look over 40. I don't believe that she is causing this much trouble. I stepped back and bumped into Joshua, who had eyes on the others. What are we going to do now?? Jabrel and Lily’s life is on the line— ours as well. Sera looked past the brothers and saw me. Her expression went sour as she wanted to know how I felt under pressure. I was fine but wanted to let go. "It's not that easy, m
~ Lily ~ With our strength, we rushed Jabrel and Anisel to the kingdom hospital. We couldn't believe our eyes when we saw the main gates. Most of our home was destroyed. Smoke has thickened enough to blind people. However, it lightened up when we got to the plaza. Guards were everywhere, treating citizens the best they could. Two noticed us and came to our aid. "Prince Jabrel and the king are wounded. They need help as wel—" I was interrupted by Mia, who grabbed my shirt. She was hunched over in pain; I could tell she was going down too. Without any second to lose, they took the royal family away. This doesn't look too good. Joshua, Hazel, and I got treated as well. We got away with minor injuries. It took thirty minutes for the doctors to return and tell us they were fighting for their lives. Anisel and Jabrel have severe stab wounds to the abdomen and back. Mia is recovering after witnessing her husband and baby brother in that state. With the main royal family out– it was up
~ Mia ~ I felt a cold breeze throughout my body as my body shivered. My eyes opened as my vision became blurry. The nurse noticed my movements and helped me sit up. "What's going on?? What happened?? Why does it feel like I got hit by a horse??" I said. “My lady, your body went into stress, taking a health risk. You have been out for two days, and Princess Lily is doing what she can to protect the kingdom. We gave you time to recover.” “Thank you. What about my husband and brother?? How are they doing??” I asked while trying to collect myself. What I have gathered was that they are still in critical condition. As for my kingdom condition, I need to talk to Lily. I slowly got up from the bed and headed out. The nurse informed me about my parent’s involvement in the process– I must get there fast. I was escorted to the office, and we passed some windows; you could see the destruction in the distance. The gunfire rang through my ears, and the bodies of my citizens covered the groun
"Are you sure you are okay, Mia?? You haven't come out of the stock state yet?? I'm worried.” Lily said as she sat down on the couch. “I just wish I knew what was going on in the battles. This is too much for me to handle right now.” “You have to calm your mind, my lady. You know, causing more stress will and can harm. Plus, you are not the only one stressing.” Lily explained as she slid her hand through her hair. I was going to ask about her breaking point, but I remember what she is going through. Having your fiance on his deathbed is the worst thing possible. I know the feeling. A slight pressure went through my stomach. Lily knew something was wrong. "You need to eat," she said. I was okay for now, and the baby kicked. Her eyes shined bright when I said that, and she placed her hand on my belly. At first, Lily didn't feel anything, but her hand bounced. To handle life inside someone made her want to cry. She called the guards to grab me something to eat. We waited for the sun
So, the diamond has been in that cell for decades, and no one thought to look!! They did explain how the cells were destroyed after their escape leaving everything to rot. People assume they took it as they fled the kingdom. My parents never checked or tried to check if there was anything here under the rumble. It was like they didn't care. As the guards kicked down their door that day, Khali, Anisel’s father, swallowed it like water. He regrets the choice as his stomach was out of order for the days they were in that cell. When it finally passed through, they immediately placed it in a hole. I have many questions but I don't know where to start. Khali cut off my thinking, “I wish we could chat more. But we don't have time to waste. Just meet us here and we will tell you what we know.” Khali said. They bowed as they waved goodbye. In the back of my mind, I should tell Anisel about this sudden surprise. But, I was ordered by them to keep it a secret. So I will. I came across Anisel
~ Mia ~ He just left me here— not one stare back. I never would have thought Anisel could be this cruel to me. Some of the guards turned away once I glanced at them. Why would they stand there and not help me up?? I wiped my eyes as I stood on my feet. I would chase after him, but I know I would make it worse. I headed to the main office to speak to Nina. When I arrived, the others glared at me with such tension. Before I could blink, they walked out of the room, and even my brother gave me a disappointing expression. I felt awful. Nina stood at her desk, waiting for me to join her. At first, I didn't know what to say. “The Queen of Satia, lying about bringing peace only to cause suffering. Why didn't you tell him this on the day you did it?" Nina said. I wanted to tell them before everything, but I couldn't see them like that. They did not know how to live. Giving them that closure brought relief and comfort. I want them to be happy. Nina shook her head. Lovers are not supposed
“How did you know??” I curiously asked. “You have a similar smell to Pinta, like a comforting scent. Mom also told me your name, and it’s a coincidence you have the same name. Plus, you like me as well.” I couldn’t hold back my tears. Mia did say he was brilliant, but this is ridiculous. I was questioning if he was five. Julian began to hiccup as his eyes filled with water. Every time they drip down, I wipe them. Under his breath, he started to say it was okay to cry, but it showed weakness. So, nobody should see him cry. Until today, he came running towards me—my baby boy. I'm sorry. I'm so sorry. An hour later, I carried Julian in while he fell asleep. I spotted my wife as he strolled down the hallway. She was worried sick about our whereabouts and asked what happened. I had a guard take him to his room so Mia and I could talk. I told her everything, even the part when he figured it out. The fact Pinta had my scent for so long amazed me. Mia took everything that belonged to me
~ Mia ~ I couldn’t rest last night as we were searching for Pinta. He still wasn’t found. How could Julian lose him that fast? As I was walking around the hallway, I spotted Matthew sitting on a bench, staring out the window. “Hey Matt, you okay??” I asked. He needed some air, that's all. The doctors said he had permission to walk freely. He wanted to build his strength back up, and being cooped up in bed wasn't helping. “Heard you have been looking for something. Searching like crazy.” He mentioned. Yeah, Pinta. However, I gave up because I knew he would appear soon. But I did ask Matthew if he saw him by any chance. It took a second to respond, and he shook his head no. Out of nowhere, he grabbed my waist as I was about to leave. The grip was loose, as he didn't intend to hurt me. He had this expression that I couldn't figure out. He was happy that I found someone who was caring. Who will do anything for me? Matthew never complimented anybody before, and to hear this was heart
~ Julian ~ Mommy and I went to find Pinta. I swear I had him before climbing in bed— I think. If we don't see him, then I will never get to sleep. He is my safe zone. Mommy took us to the living room and began to search. I looked in tight spaces so she didn't have to. I remember playing with him here, but I would never—would I?? I threw the seat pillows across the way, and Mommy saw me struggling as I held it with two hands. "Don't hurt yourself, Julian." She said as she helped me. "PINTA!!! Pinta, buddy, where are you?" I wanted to cry because Mommy said I must be a big boy and never show sadness around people. I am only allowed to cry when I am in the bathroom. She told me to stand here while she checked the kitchen. If Pinta is in there, then he will get punished. While standing, my head spun around to find a brown bear— but nowhere to be found. I can’t wait anymore for Mommy to get back. PINTA!! I searched up and down the hallways as guards helped as well. They said they hadn
My body froze in place while Sera asked again as she walked forward. “Where are the bodies, Mia?? There is nothing in those caskets— why would you put nothing underground?? Did you lie to them??” she said. “Digging up graves is disrespectful. I see your parents didn't teach you manners.” “Like your parents taught you nothing— like you lying. What would the brothers think of this?? If they are not in a casket, where could they be?? Are they alive??” Sera asked with curiosity. I don't know the answer, but we searched the nation for their bodies, and they were nowhere to be found. I had to do it for closure so they could live in peace. It was the right thing to do at the time. If my husband found out about this, then I am dead. Why did she ask me when she killed them? Sera corrected me by saying someone killed them. She doesn't know if they did the job. So, Anisel’s parents could be alive after all these years, along with the diamond. Where could they be hiding?? As I was thinking,
~ Mia ~ As we headed out, everyone else went back to the wagon. I wanted to go alone, but Mihkal and Hamom assisted, leaving me no choice. I suggested we split up for more coverage, but they explained how it is unsafe to walk around with escorts. They know where the keys are. “You are not 100% sure the keys are in her room. It would be a waste of time as the sun will rise soon. Splitting up is the best option. We need this victory.” I said while I searched the area for guards. If they did not listen to my orders, then they should have gone to the wagon. I do not have time for this. After we check the bedroom, we will go our separate ways. If they are, for sure, then we should be in and out. I was listening to what my husband said about her room. Avoid it!! However, they agreed to the deal. Anisel was right about protection. These guards are nowhere to be found. There should be guards down each hallway and guarding certain areas but barely walking one hall. As we got to the door,
~ Anisel ~ What was it like outside?? The sun, the fresh air, the soft ground that smooths my feet. For five years, I have been chained up and tortured. I wasn't allowed to leave this cage or the palace. My body is numb as I lose blood flow in my limbs. I know I look how I used to back in the days— a peasant. As I was dreaming, a bucket of water was thrown at my face. “Wakey, wakey, time for dinner,” Sera said as she opened my cell door. “No." “Now, Anisel, I need you alive. I want to torture you some more, but I can’t if you refuse to eat. Now, I’m not going to ask again.” She began to shove food into my mouth. I could barely breathe. When is this going to end? After she was done, she tossed the plate at my stomach as it hit the ground and shattered. Sera left with laughter. "Bitch, is everyone okay??" I called out. Hazel returned my question and stated Mikhal's condition. He hasn't eaten in months, and Hamon worries about his health. Like the others, he would rather die than
Later that evening, Nina had one of her guards watch Julian while we planned. The queen will oversee the operation as she knows Satia's layout. Nina placed a map up for all to see and explained the path to return. "Here. That is the fastest route to Satia. You will arrive there by tomorrow night if you don't take breaks. No guards will be around at that time. You will be free to roam; they will be locked up under the palace. You should know how to get there." Nina said. "What if they block those paths already?? What do we do now?? Nina reached into the drawer and pulled out photos. The paths are still cleared for now. The back door is probably our safest bet. Nobody knows about that but us— hopefully. Lily chimed in about the information. How does she know all of this?? The queen chuckled and smirked. When she heard about the great fall of Satia, she took advantage of the opportunity. Nina was going to take over if we didn't return. Luckily, we made it to Havin on time. She explai