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Cinderlove Ch. 01

By: allan8d8



Author's Note: Kita and I decided that we needed to give the "Cinderella" fairy tale one more try. This time we both are enjoying writing it and we hope you enjoy it too.



King Guiseppe Regalsky sat on his throne and pondered the empty throne room. His only child and heir would be returning from her trip to the outlying provinces. She was his pride and joy, yet she was so lonely. He looked up when the door opened. He hid a grimace when Khan'strou entered. "Lord Chancellor?"

Khan'strou bowed and held his it for a number of seconds before standing back up in an upright posture. "The welcoming guard are arranged and ready for the princess' return to the castle. We expect her arrival within the next hour and I assure you, your majesty, that everything is ready to make the princess' homecoming...as pleasant as possible." Khan'strou bowed his head before looking at the king with a wide grin. "Is there anything else your majesty requires?" Khan'strou asked as he continued his wide grin.

The King detested his Lord Chancellor but the man was good, very good at many things. He let the man's ingratiation pass. "Good, good. I want to throw a ball in my daughter's honor. We will make it for a month hence. See to the preparations."

Khan'strou continued to smile. "Of course, your majesty." Khan'strou bowed at his waist as low as he could go before turning and slinking out of the throne room, closing the doors behind him.

A guard hurried up to him. "Sir, you have a visitor waiting for you."

Khan'strou looked at the guard with a serious grimace. "Where?" Khan'strou replied, as though words were too good for the guard.

"In the grand library, my lord."

Khan'strou turned on his heel and headed off toward the library at a methodical pace. When he finally arrived, he stopped at the doors to the room where the two guards stood and waved them to open the doors. Khan'strou stepped inside, the doors closing behind him.

A man slunk from the shadows, covered in a black cloak. "My lord, I bring news from your gathering army."

"And?" Khan'strou asked, waiting for his courier's news.

"We are now up to five thousand strong. There is much discontent. The people and the ruling families want change and your promises have made them eager to follow you."

Khan'strou nodded. "I see." Khan'strou then quickly lashed out and punched his messenger. "And never allow the guards to tie your presence to me again. If you have news, wait in my quarters!" he snarled.

The man fell to his knees with a gasp. "Yes, my lord."

Khan'strou turned his back to the man and headed towards one of the large chairs. "Go and do not return until you have more news!"

"Yes, my lord." With a few more bows, the man faded back into the shadows.

Khan'strou sat down and closed his eyes. "It's so hard to find good help these days." he sighed.

* * *

Near the outskirts of town, at the far end of a lane stood a large, imposing brick house. Unlike its neighbors, this house had a more rundown look to it. General upkeeping had not been done in a while and the grass was starting to grow tall. 

Nineteen-year-old Antoni sat in the basement pouring over his manuscripts. He was busy trying to translate them, mumbling under his breath as he moved from text to blank page, trying to copy them down. 

"Damn!" Antoni cursed through his teeth, as he scratched out the incorrect translation he had written and tried again. "Dammit!" he swore, again scratching out his translation error.

Jatin and Kyros stood outside the basement door that led to Antoni's room. "Oh, he's going to get it. Mother told him to get vegetables from the garden and he hasn't been outside to do it yet," chortled Jatin as he scratched at his portly belly. 

Kyros snorted, his eyes cold and calculating. He loved tormenting his stepbrother. "Time to have some fun." He knocked hard on the door. "Antoni! Get your lazy ass out here!"

Antoni jumped, almost falling out of his seat. Ink began to run over the pages as he quickly moved to save his texts. "I'll...I'll be right out!" he said as he managed to move the books to safety and started cleaning up the mess.

"Now, dumb servant!" Jatin hollered for extra measure. 

Kyros thumped the door again, harder.

Antoni cleaned up what he was able to and tried to get what ink he could off his hands. He hurried to the door and opened it. 

"There's the lazybones now," taunted Jatin. 

Kyros sneered at Antoni's appearance. "Mother wants to speak with you in the study."

"Y-yes, I understand." Antoni replied meekly as he tried to get by his older stepbrothers to go up the stairs.

Kyros moved out the way but then stuck out his foot and tripped Antoni. He laughed loudly as he watched Antoni fall. "Jatin, our brother is so clumsy today!" 

Jatin brayed like a donkey and poked Antoni with the toe of his boot.

Antoni slowly got to his feet. He continued up the stairs trying to ignore his stepbrothers.

Kyros and Jatin followed behind him, taunting him about his looks and his education. They saw no need to read. Why should they? There mother had some class rank and had ambitions that one of her sons would become a Prince some day.

The three young men reached the top of the stairs and headed for the receiving room.

"You know what, Cinderfool, you reek. Mother's going to beat you again for not taking a bath."

Jatin chuckled and stared pointedly at Antoni's dirty face. 

Antoni knocked on the door, trying to ignore his stepbrothers. "Mother, did you wish to see me?" he asked quietly.

"Enter!"

Jatin and Kyros shoved by Antoni and pushed the door open. Inside the opulence of the room was staggering. It, couldn't however, disguise the disgusted look of Marchioness Denimael Bowsaksy as she gazed at Antoni.

Jatin and Kyros strutted to their mother's side and took up flanking positions beside her. 

"Why are you so filthy, Antoni?" Her tone lashed out harsh and condemning.

Antoni lowered his head. "I'm sorry mother. I was working in the basement when you summoned me," he replied softly.

"The basement," she mimicked. Her eyes swept him from head to toe. "Why are you not out in the garden getting vegetables for dinner?" She tapped her cane up and down, watching him like a hawk.

"My apologies, mother. I shall gather them right away." Antoni bowed and started backing his way out towards the door.

"I did not dismiss you, Antoni." Her voice was pleasant.

Antoni gulped slightly. "My apologies, mother. You are correct. Shall I go and collect the vegetables, now?" he asked, his head still bowed.

Denimael stared at him a moment longer and then with an imperious wave of her fat hand spoke again. "You may go. But Antoni, if you do not have dinner prepared in an hour, you will be punished."

Jinan and Kyros chuckled at the prospect of Antoni getting in trouble. They enjoyed such sessions.

Antoni bowed. "Yes, mother." He turned and hurried from the room and out of the house towards the garden.

Antoni dug through the garden pulling out a variety of vegetables to throw together for dinner. He quickly washed them off and headed inside to the kitchen. Antoni sat the vegetables on the counter and hurried over to the pantry. He began to panic. There was no bread or meats left in storage. He quickly headed out to the market.

A large crowd had gathered in the market place as the residents talked excitedly. The Princess was finally home from her travels and there was much rejoicing for she was well liked by the populace. 

At the meat stand the butcher, a skinny man with a loud voice, laughed at the suggestion that the Princess was home to stay. "You are being foolish. She is a young lady, full of spirit. It will take a miracle to keep her in one place," he sagely told his avid listeners.

Antoni wandered through the busy market and noticed the crowd that gathered around the butcher's stand. He didn't really want to deal with all those people, but he needed to purchase some meats. Antoni maneuvered his way through the crowd.

"...I'm telling you they say she's grown even lovelier. I wonder if the King and Queen will marry her off?" gossiped one older lady. 

"Who knows? Wouldn't it be grand if they invited us to the event," another tittered.

They all laughed and the butcher deftly took their coin and handed them their purchases. He spotted Antoni and frowned. "Can I help you, boy?"

Antoni nodded. "I need some slices of beef back quarters," he said softly as he tried to stay out of the way of everyone else.

The butcher shook his head and quickly cut the requested meat. "That's ten silvers, boy."

Antoni pulled out his change bag and opened it up. He slowly rifled through until he finally managed to come up with ten pieces of silver, barely. "Here you go, sir." Antoni said, setting the money on the counter.

He forced the change bag back in his pocket and picked up his purchase and attempted to make his way back out of the crowd. Now, he had to figure out how he was going to purchase enough bread for dinner with insufficient funds.

A group of pampered young gentlemen stood together in a group watching the marketplace shoppers. They were known around the area as troublemakers but nothing was done to them because many came from rich merchant families or were the younger sons from the royal court. Their leader, Brayan, enjoyed bullying the poorer boys and men who crossed his path.

He watched Antoni, jerked his head in the younger man's direction and silently Brayan's followers melted in the crowd to follow their target. 

Antoni finally made his way out of the crowd surrounding the butcher's stand and looked around for the stands in the bakery section of the market. He made his way over to the stands and looked at each one. He pulled out his change bag and began rifling through it to see what he could afford to get, if at all.

A loud trumpet call sounded and the marketplace slowly grew quiet as the whispered words, "She's here," rippled from person to person.

* * *

Princess Grazia Regalsky sat on her white stallion and gazed at the waiting crowd. She gripped the reins tightly and kept her composure. She had hoped to avoid such a thing. She was tired, sweaty and wanted only to seek the comfort of a nice hot bath and a comfortable bed. To her left rode her maidservant and best friend Mikona. Both girls had turned eighteen during their journey to see the world. To her right, and at the moment on foot, was Mikona's older brother, Leywis. He was part of her royal guard and also a friend. He sometimes acted more mature than his twenty-two years allowed. She saw him tilt his head and she gave a gentle cough to let him know she was ready to face the people.

She started down the cobblestone street, flanked by Mikona and her guards who numbered twelve in all. At first there was an awed silence and then slowly but with increasing volume, the gathered bystanders began to chant her name and cheer.

She felt trapped but she put up her hand and waved as they continued the walk down the street.

* * *

Antoni heard the commotion and turned for a second to see what was going on. He saw the royal entourage and sighed. He turned back towards the bakery stands and saw that the owners were now busy watching the event as it happened. "Par-pardon me. Can I get a loaf of bread?" Antoni asked the distracted standkeeper.

"What?" The woman gave him an irritated glare which turned into a calculating look as she glanced at his clothes. "The cheapest bread I have for sale is 20 silvers."

"Twenty sil.....nevermind." Antoni responded with a sigh. He turned around and looked for a way through the market without having to deal with the crowd.

Standing in his way was Brayan. "Well, well. If it isn't a little street mouse." He towered over Antoni by a good foot and his smile was one of menace. "Hey boys, what do we do when the mice come out to play in our streets?"

A weasel-faced young man with a missing tooth grinned at Antoni as Brayan's flunkies surrounded him. "We clean up our streets, milord."

"That's right. We can't have trash making our beautiful kingdom look bad, now can we?" Brayan advanced, violence in his eyes and posture.

Antoni looked at Brayan and the other men surrounding him. "Now fellows, I don't want any trouble. Can't you just let me be on my way?" Antoni asked politely.

"Oh, a polite mouse," chuckled the weasel-faced boy. "Milord, maybe it needs more manners."

"I think so too." Brayan suddenly reached forward and shoved Antoni.

Antoni stumbled back a couple of steps before catching himself. He took a breath and then charged at Brayan. Before he threw a punch however, he looked behind Brayan. "Hello, your majesty." Antoni said quickly. He made use of his distraction to race past Brayan.

"Get him!" Brayan ordered. 

The boys dove into the crowds, ignoring the angry mutterings of those they trampled in their haste to get to Antoni. They ran after him, past the bakery and toward the clothing stalls. 

"There he is!" Weasel-face shouted and the group converged on Antoni.

Antoni couldn't seem to gain any distance and ducked to the side of a cart. He kicked the block out from under the cart allowing the contents to spill out into the market walkways. He then turned and continued to try to get more space between him and his pursuers.

Shouts of frustration came from Brayan's gang but Brayan didn't care. He took a side street that ran parallel to the market. No street urchin ever got away from him. He was going to teach this one a lesson. He picked up speed and burst out from the side, barreling into Antoni and sending the younger man careening into the crowd and out into the street.

Antoni stumbled before falling to the ground. The meat he had purchased was now all over the road and he could feel a stabbing pain in his shoulder. He looked at his arm, seeing that he had dislocated the shoulder from apparently colliding with the cobblestone street. He attempted to scramble to his feet to get away.

There were screams and shouts and the shrill neighing of a horse.

Above Antoni, the princess' stallion was rearing and pawing the air. Royal guards rushed around her and formed a loose circle as Leywis tried to calm the frightened horse. 

Leywis pulled hard on the reins and forced the stallion down. "You all right?" he demanded. Grazia nodded and gave him a shaky smile. Assured she was all right, Leywis stomped through the guards and to the source of the problem.

One of the guards, a giant burly man grabbed Antoni roughly by the shoulder and hauled him up to his feet.

Antoni winced and let loose a shout of pain. He looked at those around him and gulped. "My apologies. I-I'm just trying to ge-get my purchase and....go." His words tumbled forth as his eyes connected with Princess Grazia sitting upon her stallion.

Grazia stared down at the young man and she couldn't look away. True he was dirty but those violet eyes. She couldn't turn from them. And right now they were full of pain. She watched Leywis stalk over to the man and get in his face. She frowned, suddenly feeling protective. She heard Mikona move her horse closer. 

"Your highness, shall I help him?"

"Yes. He's hurt." Grazia straightened abruptly when she heard the slap. Her temper flared. "Release him!" she ordered. She saw Mikona slid down from her horse and hurry toward Leywis and the guard who held the hurt man in place.

"But your highness!" The guard protested. 

"I said, release him, now." Her icy gaze bored into the guard until the man dropped his head.

"As you wish, your highness." The guard stepped back.

Grazia ignored Leywis' contemplative stare. "Mikona, help him."

Mikona grinned and hurried over to the man's side. She touched Antoni's hand. "Are you hurt?"

Antoni blushed slightly and pulled his hand back. "I'm...I'm fine." he responded, before looking at Mikona and then back to Grazia. "Not that I don't appreciate it," he added quickly.

Antoni took a quick look around, but his eyes once again focused on Princess Grazia. He bowed, wincing as he felt the pain emanating from his shoulder and hurried out as quickly as his feet could carry him.

He didn't get far. Leywis stepped into his path. "You have not been released from her highness' presence. Stand still. Mikona, come, fix this man so that we may get to the castle on time."

Mikona smiled serenely and came to stand beside Antoni. "You will be fine," she told him, her dark blue eyes becoming hypnotic and snaring him in her gaze. She placed her hand on the injured shoulder and with a steady stream of healing energy, repaired the damage. It took mere seconds and she was finished. Still smiling, she stepped back and returned to her horse. "My lady."

Grazia looked amused and nodded to Leywis.

Leywis shook Antoni once and sternly ordered, "Next time watch where you are going."

Antoni nodded. "Yes, sir." He slowly backed up, one step at a time, his eyes remaining on the royal traveling party.

Grazia watched him disappear into the crowd. She looked down at the ground and saw the scattered meat. She grew thoughtful and glanced at the crowd from where he'd came from. "Captain, a word with you."

Leywis bowed and came back over. "Your highness?"

Grazia bent low and whispered in his ear, "Buy some meat to replace the ones that were damaged. Find out where he lives and hand deliver it to him. I would hate for one of my subjects to go hungry because of an accident. And thank him for me, for his politeness."

"Your highness," he hissed but then Grazia put her hand on his shoulder. "Please?"

Leywis' resistance crumbled. The Princess had that effect on people. Such sincerity undid even the strongest of men. "As you wish. I will hand deliver it."

"Thank you, Captain. Come, let's go!" she kneed her stallion which broke into a startled canter. She ignored the roar of the crowd, her one thought was making it home.

Leywis watched Princess Grazia ride away but he didn't worry. His sister, Mikona, was trained in the art of combat and would keep the princess safe. He ignored the dispersing citizens. He picked up the meat, took a whiff and frowned. It was pretty much scraps. He sighed. The princess would insist that the poor boy they'd almost killed be given better than what he lost. "She's going to bankrupt the monarchy," he grumbled as he went toward the nearest meat stand.

* * *

Antoni hurried back to the house, his heart racing and his breath ragged. Part was from his recent encounter and part was from running all the way back. He ran into the kitchen but stopped in his tracks. He had forgotten the meat. It was bad enough that he couldn't afford the bread, but he had forgotten to bring his one purchase back with him. He knew that things were sure to turn ugly.

The door to the kitchen swung open and Kyros entered. "Well, well. Look what the cat dragged in. Someone's in trouble, Cinderboy." He advanced on Antoni and flexed his muscles. "Isn't that right, Jatin?"

Jatin gave an ugly laugh and came through door. Both came from opposite directions, effectively cutting off any escape exits.

Antoni looked at them with confused looks. How could they already know he had forgotten the meat? Then he realized the amount of time that had lapsed. "I..I...." Antoni fought for words, but was unable to come up with any to explain his situation, or at least any that would do him any good.

"Stupid Cinderboy, you were off in your head daydreaming again. Mother's pissed at you," Kyros stated calmly and then he was in motion, his beefy hand wrapping around Antoni's arm. "She wants to see you right now."

Antoni didn't even try to struggle since he knew it wouldn't help him. He was not anxious to experience his stepmother's wrath.

Jatin took his other arm and the two brothers force-marched Antoni to the receiving room. They entered and paused a few feet from the high-back velvet red chair where Denimael sat. She had changed out of the dark red dress from earlier and sat clothed in a light gray gown that pulled tight against her voluptuous figure. Her beady brown eyes focused on Antoni.


Cinderlove Ch. 01



"Do you know what time it is?"

"Yes, mother. My humblest apologies," Antoni answered, hoping she would not have the energy or mood to unleash her fury on him. He kept his head tilted, his eyes on the floor.

The chair squeaked as she hauled herself out of it. "You were five when I first met you and the center of your father's world. For fourteen years I've taken care of you. Your father, bless his memory, was too lenient with you as a child. I've tried and tried to encourage good behavior and cleanliness but I continue to fail with you in those areas. Only slovenly, disobedient children deserve punishment. And those who seem to never hear instructions, deserve it even more. It has been an hour and half. Is my dinner ready?"

Her heavy perfume filled the air and made Antoni's eyes water. "Again, my humblest apologies, but unfortunately, due to a series of circumstances, I was unable to...." Antoni's reply was cut short when Jatin hit him hard in the ribs, knocking the breath out of him.

"I don't believe, that is the question mother asked you," Kyros growled.

Antoni caught his breath. "No, mother." Antoni replied, keeping his eyes focused on the floor.

She stood before him, rhythmically tapping her cane. "Is...my...dinner...ready?"

"No, mother, you dinner is not ready," he said as solid as he could without trying to sound angry.

The sudden silence was tense. "I see." She patted his head like one would a puppy. "My poor, poor, stepson. Maybe it hurts your head when you try to think."

Kyros and Jatin snickered.

"Well I have a cure for that. Would you like to hear it?"

Antoni hesitated, knowing that there was no good answer. "Yes, mother"

Her hand stilled on his hair and then she dug her fingers in and tightened her hold until it pulled at his scalp and made his eyes water. "No reading for a week, no food for three days and you will feel my cane across your backside. I will not tolerate lazy, deceitful, and willfully disobedient sons in my house!" She yanked hard on his hair. "Do you understand me, Antoni?"

"Yes, mother." he answered quickly, his eyes wincing from the abuse she was providing.

"Very good," she purred. She gave one last hard jerk on his hair and released it. "Now, let's start with the punishment first." She caressed her cane slowly, her eyes glowing with happiness at the prospect of hurting him.

"Come on you," Kyros ordered as he and Jatin started to drag Antoni over to the table. They froze at a loud ringing knock to their front door.

Confused they looked at their mother who glared. "Who could possibly be visiting us at this hour? Stay in here with him," she huffed and went down the hall to the front door.

She opened it and gaped before closing her mouth and giving a bow. "Good afternoon, Captain. What can I do for you today?"

"I am searching for a young msn by the name of Antoni. I was told he lives here."

Denimael fought down rage. If that stupid stepson of hers had caused her trouble.... 

"He does live here. Has he done something wrong again?" She made sure to stress "again." She wanted the Captain to have a bad opinion of her stepson. Who knew, maybe it would come in handy one day.

"There was incident in the marketplace. He was pushed in front of the Princess' horse and almost killed. Unfortunately, his purchases ended up on the ground and were trampled. Her Highness ordered that he be found and that the food that was ruined be replaced." Leywis held out a bag that held meat and bread in it. "The Princess sends this by way of apology."

Denimael was barely controlling her rage. How dare Antoni speak to the Princess? And then to almost bring shame on the family. Stupid boy! She was going to have to get rid of him and soon. "Please tell her Highness, much thanks for the food." She batted her eyes at Leywis and took the bag.

"Is he home? The Princess has ordered that I thank him, personally. You understand how that goes."

She preened and fanned herself. "You are an interesting man, Captain. Yes he's here. Let me go fetch him. Please step inside. I'll be right back."

Leywis came in and closed the door.

Denimael hurried back to her reception room. She closed the door first and strode up to Antoni who was still held by her sons. She got in his face. 'How dare you not tell me that you met the Princess today!"

Antoni gulped. "I apologize. mother. I should have told you of our encounter at the market. How did you find out?" Antoni asked, somewhat puzzled as to what was going on. He carefully watched his stepmother's reaction, curious if things could work to his advantage.

"There is a royal guard standing in the front doorway. He asked to speak to you. Kyros, Jatin, release his arms but come with us." She turned her attention back to Antoni. "You will remember your manners and answer any questions he may ask."

Antoni nodded in acknowledgement as he felt his stepbrothers release their grasp on him. "Yes, mother."

"Come." She swept from the room and went straight to the front door. She never glanced back to see if Antoni followed.

"Sir, may I present to you, my stepson, Antoni." She stepped aside so the Captain could see Antoni.

Leywis studied Antoni from head to toe. The younger man was seriously underfed. "Hello, Antoni. I am Captain Leywis and part of the royal guard. I was sent by the Princess to replace what got trampled on and to tell you, thanks."

Antoni was somewhat puzzled. "Thank me? For what? I should be thanking you and the Princess for the replacement of food." Antoni responded with curiosity.

Leywis' opinion rose a notch. This young man was more humble than most. Perhaps that was what had captured the Princess' eye. "For being a good citizen while we sorted out the problem." He smiled and it made him look younger than his twenty-five years.

Antoni stood for a moment. "Very well, I will say you're welcome. Although, I still don't see why I deserve thanks, but nonetheless, thank you," Antoni responded as politely as he could, though still baffled.

Leywis nodded and turned to Denimael and bowed. "Madam, I wish you and your household a good evening."

Denimael smiled. "Thank you, Captain. And tell the Princess thank you from my family as well."

"Yes, Madam." Leywis spun on his heel and left.

Denimael walked by Antoni and opened the door a little. She watched Leywis leave but did not close the door until he had ridden out of sight. She shut it and spun around to glare at Antoni.

"You, boy, have shamed me! To be treated like a peasant! Kyros, Jatin, get over here now!" she yelled.

The two came at a run. "Mother?"

"Take him to the other room and get him ready. I think I need to modify his punishment."

Kyros and Jatin chortled with glee and grabbed Antoni's arms. "Someone's going to get it!" they chorused and started dragging him down the hall.

Antoni, although not surprised, wasn't looking forward to any modification of his "punishment" in any way. He unsuccessfully struggled to break loose from his stepbrothers' grasp. He knew that protesting would do him no good and he couldn't fight back. He was totally frustrated with the situation in which there was no way out.

Kyros and Jatin took him inside a dimly lit room filled with broken furniture and other unused items. Jatin let go first and got in Antoni's face. "Strip, Cindersoot."

Kyros laughed nastily and let go as well, leering at Antoni, knowing it would make him uncomfortable.

Antoni turned his face away and slowly started to undress. First, his shirt and then his pants and last his underclothing. He stood nude and kept his eyes focused on the ground.

"You need some fattening up, stepbrother," sneered Jatin. "You're so scrawny that even the dogs wouldn't fight over you."

The door creaked open and Denamiel's heavy footfalls and the tap, tap of her cane filled the room. She came to stand beside Antoni. "At first, I thought I would go easy on you and only give you ten but after the embarrassment of not being informed about the incident with our Princess, I've decided twenty-five licks should be sufficient."

Antoni gulped and prepared himself for the beating to come. He acknowledged her decision with a nod. He set himself in the all too familiar position and placed his hands on the edge of the table.

Kyros and Jinan jeered him and hastily moved out of their mother's way. Denimael pushed back her sleeves, her expression stern. "Count them and if you lose count I will add more," she ordered.

It was all Antoni could do to answer. "Yes, mother."

She raised her cane high and brought it down across his lower back. She liked to start near the middle of his back and work her way downward to his buttocks and occasionally, his legs. 

Antoni felt the cane as it landed. He caught his breath and counted. "One."

"I think that sounded low. Like he's not trying to put any effort in it," Kyros commented.

Antoni repeated the number, but louder, not wanting to take anymore than he needed to. "One!"

"That's better." She swung again, harder, taking pleasure in the pain she was giving her stepson.

Antoni felt the pain from the cane's impact as it radiated through his back. He grimaced, but refused to give in and give her the screams or crying she most wanted to hear. "Two!" he spoke the word aloud so there would be no confusion.

Denimael frowned. Obviously she wasn't hitting him hard enough. She hit him five times in quick succession right above his buttocks and watched as welts formed.

Antoni stood as firm as he could, but still was unable to hold back a yelp. "Aggghhh! Se-Seven!" he let the words flow forth.

"Mother, I think he's not feeling it," Jatin stated.

"Or maybe he thinks he can act tough," Kyros added with malice. "I think he needs to be hit harder."

Denimael looked thoughtful. "You're right, I am being too soft on him. Kyros, go fetch my horse whip."

"Yes, Mother!" Kyros left the room, whistling a merry tune. 

Jatin moved to Antoni's side. He leaned down and whispered in his ear, "You should have made more noise, Cinderfool."

Antoni closed his eyes. Not even halfway through the beating and it was only about to get worse. 

Jatin snickered and petted Antoni's head before moving away. Kyros returned and handed the whip to his mother. He took her cane and she smiled at him.

"Now, where were we?" Her tone was pleasant but the look in her eyes was vicious.

Antoni's fingers dug into the table and he grimaced, waiting for the beating to resume. He could tell she was enjoying beating him without even having to open his eyes. Her voice may have been pleasant, but it oozed a malice that was barely covered.

She snapped the whip expertly in the air several times. "Yes, it's in good condition," she purred. That was the only warning she gave before the whip sang through the air and landed across Antoni's butt.

Antoni let loose a yelp, but caught his breath. "Eight!" he let go with a heavy word.

Denimael smirked and let fly ten lashes working the whip down Antoni's butt to his legs and back up before stopping to catch her breath. She watched some blood trickle down his leg. Oh yes, her stepson would hurt for several days and he would not forget this lesson any time soon.

"Eigh-eigh-eighteen!" the words barely formed as Antoni now choked back tears running down his cheek. His backside burned with pain and agony and he wanted to scream until he was hoarse from it. He eventually let his hurt show through with his now audible sobbing. 

This woman had ruled his life and there was nothing he could do, especially with her two lackeys always there to keep the numbers in her favor. She was a complete and utter monster who seemed to find extreme pleasure in his misery and debasement. The worse he felt, especially if he showed it, the more she enjoyed it. Calling her a bitch would have been a compliment, as far as he was concerned, and that was one thing she would never receive from him. Never!!!!

"Aw, look, Cinderbaby is crying!" chortled Kyros. 

"Maybe we should get him a bottle," added Jatin.

Denimael ignored her sons and studied her handiwork. Antoni's back, butt and legs were a mess and bloody. She still felt he was defying her. "Turn him around and stand him upright," she commanded her sons.

Eagerly they grabbed Antoni and hauled him to his feet. "Stand up, mother wants to see you," Kyros growled. "Here, hold him," he told his brother.

Jatin easily moved behind Antoni and held him up. Kyros moved to the side so that his mother could get to her victim.

Denimael walked over and gripped Antoni's chin tightly in her hand. She forced his chin up and peered into his eyes. "Ah, my little pet, does it hurt?"

Antoni groaned. He didn't answer at first, but not out of defiance. His mind was in such a state of pain and hate that he couldn't think if it would have been better to say yes or no. He finally said meekly, "Yes...mother."

"Kyros, grab his hands and extend his arms out in front of him," she commanded.

Kyros gave her a funny look but did as she asked. Antoni's arms were stretched out in front of him, his hands gripped tightly by Kyros. "Like this mother?"

"Yes, like that my son." Denimael moved to the side and a little behind Kyros. She raised the whip and snapped it out and down across Antoni's arms.

Antoni let out a scream. As much as he wanted to, he was unable to stifle his pain any longer. She had won and broken him this day. "Nineteen." He let the word out between sobs.

She laughed, his pain music to her ears. "Yes, Antoni, you will remember this day." She let loose in a burst of energy and delivered the last six blows up and down his arms. Finally the whistling of the whip stopped and the only sounds in the room were Denimael's harsh breathing, Kyros and Jatin's mocking laughter and Antoni's sobs.

"Release him." 

Kyros and Jatin let go at the same time, letting Antoni fall unceremoniously to the floor.

Denimael grunted but lowered herself to one knee. She wrapped her fingers in his hair and jerked his head up. She delivered a sting backhand to his face. "You have five minutes to get your ass to the kitchen and start dinner." She let go, not waiting for an answer.

"Come my sons, let us go freshen up for dinner." The trio left and quiet fell in the room.

Antoni laid on the floor for a few seconds after they left before climbing to his feet. He gingerly put his clothes back on. The pain up and down his body seemed to just radiate like ripples through a pond. He wiped the tears from his eyes and headed to the kitchen. As much as wanted to tell the walking pestilence of his life to fix her own damned dinner, he knew his sanity rested on making it to bed with no more "punishments."

Finally in the kitchen, he took the food and a knife and began the preparations. Each slice he made through the food, another thought would run through his head of how he would return in kind each pain, each misery, she had inflicted on him over the years. But, for now, he knew all he could do was imagine and nothing more.



Cinderlove Ch. 02



The king knew his daughter would be arriving at any moment and was anxious to see her. A year away was a long time for a parent to not see their only child. The king sat up as he noticed a messenger enter through the side door. "Yes?" he asked eagerly. 

"Your majesty, the Princess has arrived," the messenger answered quickly, bowing.

The king let out a sigh of relief. "Don't leave her waiting! Send her in, send her!" he responded with zeal and smile on his face.

The messenger bowed, left the room and reentered with Grazia, Leywis and Mikona in tow.

"Father!" Grazia ran by the startled messenger and to her father, a huge smile on her face.

Guiseppe jumped up, grinned and hugged his daughter. "Welcome home, Grazia! I'm glad you made it back safely!" he said as he sat back down in his throne. "I hope everything went well on your trip." He glanced curiously, from his daughter to Mikona. His gaze returned back to his daughter, anxiously waiting an answer.

"Everything was fine, father. Well, mostly, except for all the hordes of princes who were vying for a way to my throne," she chuckled before turning serious. "Other than that, we were fine, father. Mikona and Leywis kept me safe and I experienced much of the world. It was worth the year long journey."

The king leaned back in his throne with a relieved look on his face. "Good, I'm glad! Hopefully, you will be staying home for a while now," he teased as he reached out to hold his daughter's hand. "I've missed you so much."

"As I have missed you father." Grazia came up the dais and sat down next to him. Her throne was just as uncomfortable as she remembered it to be.

Guiseppe chuckled slightly. "You will grow used to it, my daughter. What plans do you have next?"

"I thought to rest and then in a week, head back out and go west. I've seen the north and the east. I now wish to see the west. I love our home here in the south, but I want to see everything I can before I'm forced to remain in one spot."

Guiseppe sighed. "I really wish you would stay home just a little longer. I understand wanting to see all the land, but you don't have to rush right back off." He glanced over to Mikona. "Surely, you can talk some sense into her, Mikona?" he pleaded.

"I've tried, your Majesty. She is determined." Mikona smiled at Grazia.

"Father, I will be confined soon enough to a man that you will most likely choose for me. Can you not understand why I wish to be free as long as possible?"

"We understand, my daughter, but you are a woman grown. It is time to stop playing adventures as would a child. Your people need you as do your father and I," stated Queen Lianice Regalsky as she glided into the throne room from one of the connecting side rooms.

Grazia frowned. Her mother was always nagging at her to behave like a lady. Her mother was everything Grazia was not: graceful, polite, good with words and patient.

"Mother!" Grazia moved from her throne and went to her mother's side. She curtsied, though she hated it, and then hugged her mother. Ceremony always came first with her mother.

"My Queen, I will be leaving within in the week," Grazia began but was cut off by an imperious wave of her mother's hand.

"You will do no such thing, Grazia! In a month's time your father is throwing a ball in your honor. YOU will be attending."

"But!" Grazia was properly horrified. Not another wretched ball! The last time had been three years ago and she'd made such a fuss about being forced to attend it that her father had given in and said no more balls. She gave him a betrayed glare.

Guiseppe gave Grazia an apologetic look. "I'm sorry, Grazia, but your mother and I both agree. You should be here for your own ball. I know I said no more, but I was so glad that you were coming home, it struck me as a spontaneous celebration. Now, you will be there I trust?" He waited for an answer. "Grazia?"

She chewed on her bottom lip, unladylike, but she didn't care. She sighed in defeat. "Yes, father. I will be here."

"Good!" Lianice clapped her hands together. "We must get started making your gowns at once. The ball will cover three days. And we are going to invite all eligible males royal and of the merchant classes, who have wealth, of course."

Grazia blanched and looked ill. Mikona hurried to her side. "My lady?" she whispered.

"Get me out of here, Mikona," Grazia hissed.

Mikona nodded and cleared her throat. "Your majesties, if it pleases you, we are all very tired from our journey. We would like to bathe and relax, if we may?"

King Guiseppe eyed the two of them before letting loose a sigh. "Very well. You may go. But remember, you will have to attend the ball." he said calmly.

"Yes, Father." Grazia was not happy but she didn't argue. She would try again later, to reason with her father when her mother wasn't around to interrupt. She loved her mother dearly, but she was never going to be a "lady." She curtsied and she along with Mikona fled the throne room.

*  *  *

In the throne room Leywis stayed at attention, waiting to give his report to his king.

"And what do you have for me Leywis?" Guiseppe asked.

"Your Majesty, we had no trouble during the journey itself. We did, however, have a problem when we entered the city."

Guiseppe raised an eyebrow. "What kind of trouble?"

"A young man was shoved from the crowd and into the path of the horses. The Princess' stallion almost trampled the poor fellow."

Guiseppe closed his eyes and shook his head. "I wonder why she didn't mention this? Is he alright?" he asked curiously.

Leywis grimaced. "He was rather dirty, and I couldn't tell if he had injuries. Mikona did heal his hurt shoulder. I will admit I've never met someone who was that eager to get away from the Princess' company. Although to be fair to the young lad, I think maybe he was more embarrassed that he'd caused a scene. At least that's the sense I got from him. He also dropped his purchases in the street. They got damaged and the Princess ordered that we replace them. So I did, your Majesty."

Guiseppe scratched his bearded chin in thought. "Hmmm. I see. Alright. Keep me up to date on any further happenings. I hate it when my daughter keeps things from me."

"I don't think she meant to forget. She is, after all, tired from the journey though she would never admit such things aloud," Leywis explained.

Guiseppe looked at Leywis for a moment. "You are right, of course. Nevertheless, continue to keep me updated." 

"Yes, your Majesty." Leywis bowed low and left his monarchs. He was still pondering the enigma of the young man named Antoni.

*  *  *

Antoni finished the preparations and began to set the dining room table for dinner. He breathed a deep sigh and went to notify his stepmother and stepbrothers that dinner was ready.

Kyros and Jatin were in their mother's room, singing her praises and complimenting her on her gown which she had once again changed. The dark blue color made her blue eyes glitter. 

"I hear his footsteps. Open the door for your stepbrother," Denimael ordered without once looking away from the mirror and her reflection.

"Yes, mother." Jatin hurried to the door and opened it with a sneer. "Get in here, Cinderfool."

Antoni had his hand raised to, but lowered it and stepped forward as Jatin had told him to do. "Dinner is ready and the table is set. I shall be waiting to serve you," he said, his voice slightly cracking.

"Well, I'm glad to see you can actually do something right," sneered Kyros who subsided at a look from Denimael.

"Very good, my stepson. Go, we will be down in a moment."

Antoni nodded, slowly turned around and headed out of the room to return to the kitchen until summoned to serve dinner.

Denimael made him wait twenty minutes before she and her sons seated themselves at the dining table. She rang the bell and prepared herself to find fault with the meal.

Antoni carried the food into the dining room and began to set it out, starting with his stepmother. He filled each plate and sat the food in front of the diners. He stepped back and waited to be excused.

Denimael made sure to check the silverware before cutting a piece of meat and taking a bite. She scrunched up her face and with swift and accurate force, knocked the food off the table and to the floor. Juice from the food splattered all over Antoni's clothes.

"Is there something wrong, mother?" Antoni tried to sound concerned as he braced for the tongue lashing to come.

"Are you trying to poison me, you ungrateful wretch!" Denimael fanned herself and looked ill. "This meal is unacceptable! Prepare something else. Now, Antoni!"

Antoni bowed low. "Yes, mother." He grabbed the plates and food off headed back to the kitchen.

Kyros and Jatin snickered but then both got up and followed Antoni. 

"Well, Cinderfool, you messed up again," Jatin jeered.

Antoni didn't say anything. He sat the plates down along with the dishes of food. He began milling about the kitchen, trying to string together ideas of what to fix.

"Look, brother, not only is he dirty but he's feeble-minded as well. Can't even answer when spoken to." Kyros' tone had a malicious undercurrent to it.

Antoni didn't stop moving about. "I hear you fine. I'm just working to prepare your dinner," he responded, still wandering about the kitchen.

Kyros gave Jatin the signal and the two brothers cornered Antoni, forcing him to stand in one spot.

"Do you think you're better than us?" growled Jatin who jabbed a finger in Antoni's chest.

Antoni looked Jatin in the face. "Considering that it takes two of you to corner me alone, I must be," he answered, frustrated with everything. He knew he would likely suffer another beating, but at the moment, he just didn't care.

Jatin appeared stunned and Kyros guffawed. "Aren't you the bold little piece of baggage!" Kyros pulled back his arm and let a punch fly right into Antoni's stomach.

Antoni buckled over in pain. His hand landed on the counter, and slid to an empty skillet. Not taking time to think, he grabbed the skillet and swung it in one sweeping motion, hitting both brothers across the face. Taking his moment, Antoni took off running out the door and didn't stop to look back.

Kyros and Jatin landed on their butts, howling in pain. They couldn't muster the energy to get to their feet to give chase. Instead, still bellowing like wounded bulls, they ran to their mother to tell her the news.

*  *  *

Mikona glided through the castle's halls on silent feet. She was on her way to meet her brother for their ritual night hunt. It was the one thing she had missed while on the journey with her beloved Princess. She sensed her brother before she saw him.

"Leywis, trying to pounce me when you know I can 'hear' you is so silly," she chided her older sibling as she rounded the corner to find him lounging against the wall, with his bow and quiver of arrows in his hands.

He laughed. "You may have gifts, sister dear, but remember they can't always protect you from harm. So, shall we go hunting?"

"Yes, let's do." She shouldered her quiver and lovingly caressed her bow.

Leywis laughed and the two of them left the castle and headed into the forest.

*  *  *

Antoni finally stopped running to catch his breath. He had no idea how far he had run, but knew it had to be quite the distance since he was surrounded by nothing but forest. He looked around him, trying to see if he could place his location, but had no luck.

Antoni took another breath now that his heartbeat had slowed. He continued walking on, the skillet still in his hand. Around him bushes rustled and the night forest creatures gave voice. The pale light of the moon lit portions of the ground.

He clutched the skillet tighter in his hand and looked around him at the woods. His eyes darted from one side to the other and back again, trying to keep a watch on everything around him.

A loud crash to his left and then a deer bounded from the brush and right in front of him. It paused for a second to look at him and then it ran away.

Antoni took a moment to catch his breath after being startled by the deer and then continued going forward. He knew that if he kept going he would eventually come out the other side.

"Halt! Who dares trespass on the King's woods!"

Antoni froze, glancing around for the source of the voice. "I-I'm just a simple subject who got lost and is...is looking for his way out."

Into the clearing stepped Leywis and Mikona, both had their bows aimed at him. It was Mikona who recognized him first and lowered her weapon.

"Brother, it's the citizen from the marketplace!"

Leywis studied Antoni for a moment before, he too, lowered his weapon. He stared pointedly at the skillet in Antoni's hand. "Pray tell, what are you doing in the forest at this time of evening?"

Antoni stared at the ground before answering. "I was running from.....well I was just running and ended up getting lost." He finally noticed the skillet in his hand and just smiled slightly. "I...I was...cooking," he said meekly, pointing to the skillet.

"Right," Leywis drawled.

Mikona giggled and turned it into a polite cough. She walked up to Antoni and stared into his eyes. She frowned. "You're hurt."

Antoni stepped back slightly. "I'm-I'm fine. It's nothing to worry about." Antoni held a smile on his face.

"Liar," Mikona stated. She glanced over at Leywis. "His hurt speaks to me. It is more than 'nothing' as he puts it."

Leywis gave Antoni a sharp glance. "Lying will get you thrown into a cell. Answer Lady Mikona truthfully."

Antoni sighed. "Yes, I am injured, but it's nothing you need to be worried about. I'm used to it and you've done so much for me already today," he answered hesitantly. "I don't need anyone concerned about me."

Mikona exchanged a look with Leywis. "Everyone needs someone to worry about them. It keeps us human," she told Antoni. She reached out and placed her hand on his shoulder. "Just like we all need a warm touch to let us know we are safe." Gently she poured some of her healing magic into him to take the edge off his pain.

Antoni stood and let her do as she wished. He was not going to argue further. He felt his pain begin to ease and he smiled. "Thank you. Perhaps if I could burden you for another moment, I was wondering if you could show me how to get out of here?"

"I will show you the way out, citizen. My advice to you is not to come here again at night," Leywis warned.

Antoni felt some relief. "Thank you, once again. I really appreciate your help."

"Come, lad, let's get you back home." Leywis waved to Mikona who only smiled and vanished back into the forest without a sound. He took the lead, making sure to keep only a foot between him and Antoni. "Now that my sister is gone, why not tell me the real reason you are out here."

Antoni sighed and looked at the skillet in his hand. He thought for a moment as they walked before deciding to answer. "I'm not in a good life. I'm often beaten and flogged if I do something wrong or step out of line." He turned the skillet in his hands. "Sometimes, if I don't do anything wrong, they will make me mess up so I can be beaten. I ran this time after hitting my stepbrothers. I should probably get back so that things don't get worse."

Leywis halted and turned to face Antoni. "Where is your father?"

Antoni stopped, looked down and then out into the forest. "He's dead. He's been dead for quite some time now." Antoni's voice remained quiet.

"I see." And Leywis did see. It made him sad for he remembered a time when his and Mikona's life was much the same until they had been picked to serve in the King's palace. "Have you thought about applying to the castle for work?"

Antoni shook his head. "It isn't my place. I belong at home to serve my mother and brothers."

Leywis put a hand on Antoni's shoulder. "You are not a slave. You are what? At least eighteen years of age? You should be exploring the world, not being beaten and forced to wait hand and foot on your relatives."

Antoni sighed. "Perhaps. But I don't really have anywhere else to go."

"Think on it. There are worse things than trying for a position at the palace." Leywis resumed walking. Before long they stood outside Antoni's home.

The door was flung open and Denimael strode out, she froze when she spotted Leywis. "Captain," her voice oozed charm though the expression she directed at Antoni was venomous.

Leywis schooled his features. "My lady. I was escorting your son home." He turned to Antoni. "Thank you for the cooking advice. I am sure the Head Cook will be able to use it."

Antoni just smiled slightly. "Sure. N-no problem."

"I will be by to check on you in a few days, Antoni. Have those recipes ready." Leywis turned his attention back to Denimael and bowed. "Good evening, my lady."

She stood gaping and didn't say anything until Leywis was out of sight. She rounded on Antoni and slapped him hard.

Antoni stood solid, but stared at the ground. "My apologies, mother," he said calmly, but then raised his head and walked past her into the house.

Denimael was stunned and angry. So her stepson thought he was better than her? She would teach him a lesson. But not tonight, no, tomorrow was a new day. Her mind spinning with devious plots, she went back inside.

*  *   *

Mikona had been unsuccessful on her hunt. She and Leywis had been unable to catch anything and decided it best to head back for the castle. She had other issues on her mind concerning Princess Grazia and the upcoming ball in her honor. It would be best to check back up on her and see how she was doing. She put away her things and headed for Grazia's room.

Grazia moodily stared at the bath water. Her thoughts were all over the place. This was the third drawing of bath water she'd ordered but it had been necessary. She had gathered a lot of journey grime and that alone warranted a long soak. It was her long auburn blond streaked hair that took the longest to get clean. At the moment it was coiled above her neck in a tight, wet bun.

She was loath to leave the bath tub. She knew her mother was hovering around waiting to pounce on her and once again stress the importance of the ball and why she had to attend it. "I wish Mikona would hurry and get back here," she muttered.

Grazia was stepping out of the tub when Mikona entered the room. "There you are? How was your hunt?"

Mikona stopped in her tracks for a moment as she saw Grazia's gorgeous body, glistening from the water. She quickly gathered herself and stepped forward. "The hunt was unsuccessful, unfortunately. Are you feeling better?" Mikona asked.

"Now that the dust and dirt from the road has been washed away I feel like a new person," Grazia joked as she allowed the servant to wrap a robe around her body. She smiled and walked over to Mikona. "I'm sorry you didn't get any prey but I take it the night air was good to you?"

"Yes, very much so. In fact, we came upon a surprise while in the forest. The young man that your horse almost trampled appeared to have gotten lost and was rather injured."

Grazia froze, caught herself and then shooed away the servant. "I can dress myself. Out!"

The servant hastily curtsied and left the room.

"Come, Mikona, let's go talk where ears won't hear." Grazia strode to her bedroom, the one place in the castle no one entered without an invitation.

Mikona followed Grazia and shut the door. She fidgeted, unsure of where to start first with her explanation.

"Mikona, whatever it is, spit it out. You said he was injured. How?"

Mikona sighed. "He seemed to have been covered with several bruises and bleeding welts, as though he had been beaten mercilessly. I healed what I could, but he was very hesitant to accept the help."

Grazia's fist clenched and she spun away from Mikona. She'd known something was wrong when she first encountered the young man. His emotions were so raw and turbulent it had overwhelmed her empathic control, a first for her. "Where is he now?"




Cinderlove Ch. 02



"Leywis escorted him back home. We tried to convince him to come to the castle to find shelter and work, but he was very stubborn in his insistence that he would not require further assistance." Mikona answered with a hint of sadness in her voice.

Grazia grunted and stalked toward her bureau. She angrily pulled out her nightgown. "When will people start treating each other better? This is ridiculous! We have laws in place for such acts. Does he not know he can get assistance?"

"I pointed him in the direction of the castle, but he seemed adamant about not taking any more help." Mikona shrugged.

Grazia pursed her lips. She hated suffering, whether it be human or animal, she couldn't stand it. She always had to help. It drove her parents crazy and Leywis often teased that her endeavors would bankrupt the monarchy. It was one of many reasons why she didn't want to marry and didn't wish to rule. To be that tightly bound to someone that she might have no feelings for was a fate worse than death.

"I thank you for doing all you could. I wonder who it is that hurts him and yet he continues to go back there? Argh, this will make me crazy." She stopped speaking and turned to the door. "Mother's coming!" she hissed.

Mikona nodded and shooed Grazia into bed. "I'll take care of it." She opened the door and closed it behind her. "Goodnight, princess," she whispered. She turned around and held a finger up to her lips. "I was just saying goodnight to the princess, my queen. She has decided to be off to bed."

"I see. How convenient that my daughter finds time to fall asleep just as I arrive to speak to her." Liancie eyed the young woman before her. She knew that Mikona was protecting Grazia but this was one time she would not allow it. "Move, Mikona. Sleepy or not, I will be speaking with my daughter tonight."

Mikona bowed and stepped to the side. She tried, but there was only so much she could do when it was the queen. "Yes, my queen."

Liancie swept by Mikona and into the room. She turned on the light and clapped her hands. "Up, Grazia! You will not hide from me."

Grazia sat up and threw her mother her best sullen expression. "Mother, I'm exhausted, I need sleep."

"You can sleep after I've had my say. You are my only child and while I love you and your father both, I am ashamed of your lack of womanly skills. Beginning tomorrow you will spend your mornings with me and etiquette tutors and in the afternoon you can do as you wish. No more riding off or acting like a man. You are female and it is your duty to marry and produce heirs."

"But mother! I don't desire those things! There is more to life than waiting on a man hand and foot and producing babes!" Grazia protested.

Liancie frowned. "You WILL obey, Grazia, or I will have you whipped!"

Grazia gave a horrified gasp and gaped at her mother.

Mikona decided it would be best for her to intervene. "My queen, if I may, I would like to offer to make sure Grazia follows your orders and properly gets ready for the ball." Mikona said cautiously as she watched the queen's reaction.

Grazia was too stunned at her mother's threat to say anything else. She'd only been whipped once and that was a child when she'd hid and no one had been able to find her until well into night time. And then it was only because she had scared her mother and father so badly. It took a moment for Mikona's words to hit home and she gave her best friend a wounded look. How could her friend side with her mother?

Liancie glanced at Mikona and back to Grazia, her lips pressed in a thin hard line. And then she had an idea. "Very well, Mikona, but heed my words, both of you. If Grazia fails to make it to her lessons or is late, she will receive double the punishment, one for herself and one for you, Mikona."

"But, mother that's not fair!" Grazia wailed.

Mikona bowed. "Yes, my queen. I will make sure that she does attend her lessons and is on time."

"Grazia?" 

Grazia threw her hands up. She knew when she was defeated. "Yes, mother, I will be with Mikona at lessons tomorrow."

Satisfied that she had things in order, Lianice smiled. "Good night then, my daughter. Good night Mikona. I will see you at nine sharp." She swept from the room.

Grazia turned and glared at Mikona. "Well, that went well," she snapped.

Mikona just smiled. "I think so too. I mean, you could have been whipped." She replied and reached over to turn out the lights. 

"Good night, princess." Mikona said as she closed the door behind her.



Cinderlove Ch. 03



Mikona rushed in Grazia's room, flicking on the lights. "Princess, please get up! We need to get ready to meet your mother."

"Ugh, go away, Mikona, it is too early in the morning!" Grazia groaned and burrowed further under the covers.

Mikona frowned. She reached down and grabbed the bottom of the covers. "You need to get up, now!" she cried, pulling the covers right off of Grazia.

"Mikona! You're heartless!" Grazia wailed before stumbling from bed. "Where are we going again?" She rubbed sleepily at her eyes and tried to focus on her best friend and personal servant.

Mikona sighed, already digging through Grazia's closet for something for the princess to wear. "We need to meet your mother and your tutors for etiquette lessons starting today. And we do not have the luxury to be late, either."

"Etiquette my...." Grazia stopped herself and sighed loudly in irritation. She allowed Mikona to help her dress. "All right, lead on, Mikona."

Mikona just smiled and opened the door "Shall we, princess?" she said as she bowed, letting Grazia go out first.

Grazia scowled and swept by her best friend. She was not happy being forced to learn womanly tasks. She shuddered. She had never wanted to be "womanly." She'd rather be out riding or wielding a sword.

Mikona shut off the lights and closed the door behind them. "We need to hurry up. We have ten minutes left to get out to the garden." She quickened her pace.

Personally Grazia would have gone in late but the threat by her mother the night before made her hasten her own steps. Soon they arrived in the garden and Grazia halted a few feet from her mother's chair. "Mother."

Lianice smiled as she turned around. "You made it right on time. Very good." she replied cheerfully.

Mikona just curtsied. "Thank you, milady."

Grazia rolled her eyes. "Can we please hurry and get this torture session over with."

Lianice grimaced. "I can see this is going to take more work than I originally suspected. Perhaps I should go ahead and double your lessons right now?" she asked sarcastically. 

Grazia stiffened. "No, my Queen." She opted for tactic. Her mother would be more lenient that way.

"Very well" Lianice grinned. "I'm going to leave you in the hands of your tutors and I hope that you do learn something in the process." she remarked and she stood.

Grazia and Mikona both dropped down into deep curtsies and stayed that way until the Queen was gone. She straightened and sighed, then glared at the tutors. "Well?"

The tutor in the forefront curtsied and stood. "Her highness recommended we begin with table etiquette, milady."

Grazia grimaced, walked to the table and thought of a dozen ways to get back at her mother for what was going to be a torture session. She ignored Mikona and tried to focus on the odious tutors.

*  *  *

The form quickly darted through the shadows, stopping only to see if he was being followed or noticed. As Khan'strou reached the access door, he carefully opened it and disappeared, the door closing behind him. Within minutes, he came out the other end of a tunnel dug into the mountainside and under the town walls. He would soon reach the hidden spot where he would meet with his amassing army.

Nestled in valley several miles south of the kingdom of Lsky, Commander Lhan'strou stood and critically eyed the men who had rallied to his brother's cause. Soon the Regalsky dynasty would fall and the Strou family line would rule supreme. He scratched at his stubble and contemplated how best to deploy the army. He looked up at the sky. Khan'strou should be arriving soon.

Khan'strou walked swiftly, coming upon the deep valley. Most people avoided going through it because of the steep climb on the outside to get to it and just tended to go around, which opened it as a prime spot for an encampment. Khan'strou made his way down the roughly worn path and stopped at the bottom to catch his breath. After a moment, he made his way to the group of soldiers his brother was training and stood to watch.

"Not that way, you incompetent lout!" Lhan'strou roared and swiftly went to a solider and cuffed him hard. "If you swing like that, you're going to last only a few seconds on the battlefield." He jerked the sword from the young man's hand. "Swing, like this!" he growled and demonstrated the move twice before handing it back to the boy.

Red-faced the boy did the move the correct way and Lhan'strou moved back and training resumed.

Khan'strou chuckled. "A stickler as always, I see."

"If we are to succeed, brother, then I must be." Lhan'strou gestured for Khan'strou to follow him. He took his older brother to the command tent. "Everyone out!"

The staff scattered leaving the two of them alone. "Ale?" Lhan'strou offered.

Khan'strou waved him off and sat down. "No, thanks. What news do you have for me?" he asked, his face getting more serious.

"The messenger," Lhan'strou's lips twitched into a smile, "informed me that he delivered his message to you. Our current count is 5,000 with another possible 1,000 on the way. By the time the Princess' ball arrives, we will be ready."

Khan'strou leaned back in his seat. "Very good! This will truly be a celebration to enjoy. I will ascend to take the throne and our people shall be able to take their vengeance upon the royal family after all these years." 

"Yes, brother, revenge will be ours."

Lhan'strou stood. "You'd better get back, brother. Wouldn't want the King to learn of our plans before we can implement them."

Khan'strou nodded. "Very well. You keep things going here. Our time is drawing near." 

With that, Khan'strou stood and made his way out of the tent and back up the path.

*  *  *

Leywis stood outside the royal census office and thought about his plan. First he needed to learn more about Antoni. An idea had begun to form after he'd met the younger man. Leywis chided his sister Mikona for always taking on strays, but Leywis too, had been known on occasion to meddle. He rapped once on the door and entered.

He spotted the elderly gentleman sitting behind the oak desk. "My Lord Recordkeeper, I humbly ask if I might intrude upon your good graces for a moment."

The older man looked up for a moment to eye Leywis and then returned to his manuscripts before finally setting down his pen. "You are always welcome to enter." he said, as he motioned his hand to a seat. "Please, sit down. How can I help you?"

"I thank you. I need to look up the lineage of one of our citizens."

The record-keeper slowly got to his feet and headed into the back. "Do you have a family name to search them by?" he yelled from the back room.

"The last name is Powrinov."

The old man stopped for a minute before continuing his search. "Ah, I see" he mumbled. Finally finding the right volume, he pulled it down and took it back out to the front. "Here you are. It should be in there."

"Thank you." Leywis hurried over to the table and opened the book. He scanned the pages until he found the family name. He frowned. Antoni was a Marquis' son, yet the boy was dressed no better than a servant. Leywis studied the page some more. It looked like Antoni's father had married twice. "Ah, that explains it," Leywis muttered.

Antoni was eligible to join the royal guard ranks and Leywis was going to make sure he did. The kind young man deserved better than what he was living with. Satisfied with his research he returned the volume to the Recordkeeper and left to find Mikona.

*  *   *

Grazia sat stiffly in the chair and fought back a yawn. Her back hurt and so did her face from smiling so much. She really, really hated the man droning on before her. His bald head made a tempting target. She dearly wanted to fidget but was afraid to move, lest she got chastised again. She glanced over at Mikona and wondered how her friend could sit so still and looked interested at the same time.

"Do you understand?" the tutor asked, his face deathly serious.

"Yes, sir," Grazia muttered. She couldn't take much more of this!

Mikona sighed. "Well, I think it best we take a break for a moment." She stood and stretched. "We shall take fifteen minutes before we continue."

The tutor nodded and got up, walking off to one side of the garden.

Grazia jumped to her feet. She hurried over to Mikona and hissed, "I'm leaving!"

Mikona stared at Grazia. "I wouldn't do that. You know how your mother will react!" she replied.

"I don't give a damn! I can't take this. Please, Mikona, cover for me?" Grazia pleaded.

Mikona looked at Grazia. "Fine. Take some extra time, but we will have to finish this today."

"Thank you!" Grazia hugged her friend and hurried to the opposite end of the garden and slipped out using a secret side passage. She headed for the forest to take the shortcut that would lead to the edge of town.

Leywis, spotted Grazia slipping out the side entrance and frowned. He hurried over to his sister. "Mikona?" He said her name as a demand for answers.

Mikona just shook her head. "Just follow her to make sure she doesn't get into any trouble or tries to stay out all day." she said, turning to her brother.

Leywis rolled his eyes. "Her parents are not going to be happy about this," he muttered before he too left to trail the escaping Princess.

*  *  *

Grazia swiftly made her way to the forest. The restlessness once again pulled at her. She felt caged. She hated being a Princess and a woman. Why couldn't she have been born a male? Then she wouldn't have to worry about how to curtsy or how to flirt. It was so infuriating!

Her steps slowed as she neared the end of the forest. She came to a halt when her empathic power flared up and she felt HIM. She had felt his kindness and loneliness yesterday during the procession and it had left its mark on her soul. 

Grazia changed direction and headed for the source of the emotions.

*  *  *

Antoni had attempted to stay busy and out of the sight of his step-family. He knew his attempted escape would not go without punishment, but as of yet, it had not happened.

Kyros and Jatin were sulking and nursing bruised heads. They had wanted to get back at their stepbrother but their mother had stopped them. She said she had something else in mind. Angry at being denied they decided to destroy the garden and the kitchen and blame it on their stepbrother. With gleeful laughs, they set about wrecking everything. The Marchioness was away visiting friends and by the time Mother came home, the place would be a mess.

Upstairs, Antoni could hear the moving around of his stepbrothers and tried to force out his mind what they might be up to. As long as he could manage to stay out of their way, he decided he would be okay. He continued cleaning up his room, where the furnace kept the building warm.

Satisfied with their destruction, Kyros and Jatin headed in to town. They would go drink and celebrate their cleverness.

Antoni, noticing the sudden quietness, headed upstairs. "Hello?" he asked with no reply. Slowly checking around the house, Antoni found no one and let out a sigh of relief. "Maybe now I can relax a little."

Antoni headed into the kitchen to find something to snack on and came upon the damage left by his brothers. "No! I've got to get this fixed up or I've had it."

Antoni ran outside to the shed to grab some tools and came upon the wrecked garden. He immediately froze in place knowing there was no way to fix the damage in the garden. Frustrated Antoni just let loose a scream, tears welling up in his eyes.

"Citizen, is there something wrong?"

Antoni stood still and cleared his eyes before turning around. "No, nothing's wrong. Everything is fine."

As he turned around he caught sight of his visitor. "You! Princess! I..I, uh" Antoni stammered in shock.

"At ease. It's just me. I mean, you can call me, Grazia. I hear "Princess" enough when I'm home."

Antoni blushed and nodded. "Sorry. I just, uh...I" Antoni just stumbled over his words. Realizing his surroundings, Antoni lowered his head. "I'm sorry for the mess, Prince...Grazia. There was some trouble and I hadn't yet had time to clean it up."

Carefully she stepped over the small hedge and closer to Antoni. A few feet separated them as she critically eyed the garden. "I don't think cleaning up is going to help. Did an animal get in here?"

Antoni could only smile at the suggestion. "You might say two animals ran rampant in here. Its nothing you need worry about, however. I just need to find a way to fix the mess before mother comes back." he finished, his face turning to the destroyed garden.

"Why? Will she not understand that animals tore the garden?" Grazia stared at him with a puzzled look on her face.

Antoni smiled and looked back at Grazia. "Unfortunately, no. She is not one to take excuses, true or not. For her, it should have never happened to begin with and since I was the one here, it will be my fault." He stared at the house for a moment before a question struck him.

"What are you doing all the way out here anyway, Princ..Grazia? I usually don't see you without some sort of escort, especially out this way." he looked at her quizzically.

"Oh!" She blushed a becoming shade of pink and looked down at her feet. "Well...I...."

"There you are, Princess!"

Grazia's head shot up and she grimaced. She closed her eyes. "Hello, Leywis."

Antoni looked up and noticed Leywis and watched the conversation unfold.

Leywis informed Grazia of how grave her actions were. "Princess, you promised her highness, your mother, that you would attend your lectures, yet I receive notice from my sister that you wandered off and disappeared." he delivered her crime to her with a serious face.

"Leywis, I can explain. It was really boring! I'm sorry, but the lessons are! And mother was unfair to use Mikona as a guarantee that I be forced to attend them. One more minute of, "sit this way," or "tip the cup this way," and I was going to scream. Please, we have to find some way out of these odious lessons."

Leywis shook his head. "I'm sorry, princess, but you made a promise and its one you will have to keep. We will need to return so you can finish you lessons. You can not give your word so lightly." he replied his eyes staring through Grazia before glancing up at Antoni and then back to the princess. "Although we don't have to return right this instant."

Grazia gave Leywis a relieved look and turned back to Antoni. "We will help you. I don't want you to get into trouble with your mother."

Leywis looked over Grazia's head at Antoni and frowned at the younger man.

Antoni shook his head. "You don't have to do that. Its really not necessary. It will be fine." Antoni answered with a half-hearted smile.

"If my Princess commands it, then I must." Leywis turned to Grazia. "Go sit while I help Antoni."

Grazia shook her head. "No, I will help too. The three of us together can get it done faster. And don't," she held up a hand, "try to stop me, Captain."

Leywis winced at her use of his title. "As you wish, my lady." He walked over to Antoni. "Where are the tools?"

Antoni pointed to the shed. "We have some in there. Let me get them." Antoni hurried into the shed and returned carrying the tools.

Leywis and Grazia each took a tool and started at different sections of the ruined garden. No one spoke as they all worked to finish it. An hour later the trio were done. Grazia wiped the sweat from her brow and grinned.

Leywis dusted his hands off and stood, helping Grazia to her feet. "Princess, we must get you back."

"I know." She walked over to Antoni and offered him a hand up.

Antoni took her hand and got to his feet. "Thank you. I don't think I could have finished this on my own." Antoni said with a look of relief on his face.

"You are most welcome. Here," Grazia reached into her the folds of her dress and pulled several gold coins and some silver from her hidden pocket. She pressed them into Antoni's hands. "Go buy what you need. I must go home. May fortune smile on you, Antoni."

Antoni looked up at Grazia and smiled. "You are truly a princess worthy of her people. Thank you." he grinned.

"Come, Princess." Leywis took Grazia's hand and tugged none too gently on it. "Antoni, tomorrow I wish to see you at the training building on Royal Street. Come early and don't be late."

Antoni nodded and watched as they walked away. Now he just had to clean up the kitchen before any of his stepfamily came home. He turned and headed back into the house.



Cinderlove Ch. 04



Grazia allowed Leywis to take her back to the castle. When they managed to get inside without being cornered, she thought she was safe.

"Hello, Daughter."

She froze and clutched Leywis' hand in a tight grip. 

"Mother, good afternoon. I was just on my way to finish my lessons."

"Indeed? Pray tell, then, why your tutors came to me over two hours ago to inform me that you and Mikona had vanished?"

She took in her mother's stormy expression and opted for truth. "I don't know where Mikona is, but I left without permission. I couldn't take one more minute of that, that fake politeness!" She turned to Leywis. "Our Captain of the Guard was kind enough to come and retrieve me while reminding me that I made a promise and needed to keep it."

Her mother gave Leywis a sharp look. "Did you now?"

Leywis nodded. "Yes, your Majesty."

"Tell me, Captain, where did my daughter go?"

"She had taken a wrong turn and had gotten lost on the forest outskirts behind the castle. Luckily, I found her with little trouble and escorted her back. I apologize for the delay in her studies." Leywis bowed.

Her mother snorted. "Yes, my darling daughter seems to do that a lot. Oh, very well. Get to your lessons, Grazia, and no more running away or you shall be punished."

"Yes, Mother." Grazia murmured. She didn't speak until her mother left. "Whew! That was close," she giggled.

Leywis stopped and spun around to face Grazia. "We are lucky to escape your mother's wrath. Don't think that Mikona or I will always be there to make sure everything is all right! There is always the possibility of something going horribly wrong!" He gave her an aggravated stare.

She gasped, surprised by his tone. This was not a side of Leywis she was used to seeing. She didn't like the way it made her feel. "I'm sorry," she stammered, heat making her flush as she looked away. "I know that."

Leywis thought for a moment before he spoke again. "Princess, I understand the urge to wander like you do. Mikona and I will be there to help you as much as we can, but there will be dangerous situations. I just want you to realize this and be more careful in where you decide to go and in what you decide to do. I don't like seeming harsh, but I want to make sure you don't carelessly get yourself in trouble." Leywis' voice softened as he explained his stance.

Grazia sniffled, but she did understand. "Yes, Leywis."

"Well, Big Brother, never thought I'd see you make a woman cry." Mikona chided as she appeared from a side corridor.

Leywis looked over at Mikona. "There is always a first time." he said with a smirk. He turned slightly and faced them both as Mikona joined the group. 

"Princess. Sister. You'll have to excuse me, but I have other responsibilities to attend to. Farewell." With that, Leywis turned and headed off through an adjoining corridor.

Mikona sighed and touched Grazia's shoulder. "He worries about us."

"I know. Let's go, the tutors are waiting." Subdued, Grazia said nothing more as she went back to the garden and her instructors.

* * *

Antoni was glad to get the garden back into respectable shape, but the kitchen was still a mess. After Grazia and Leywis left, he made his way back inside to see about getting the house cleaned and fixed before his stepbrothers, and more importantly, his stepmother, came back.

"This is worse than anything they have done this before." Antoni worried to himself. He set about trying to cleanup the mess first, working to get things done quickly.

Denimael exited the carriage in a flurry of pomp and skirts. Her hat with its colorful plumage, complimented her velvety white dress. Her trip into town had been fruitful and if things continued as she hoped, not only would she get more money, but she would be able to get rid of her troublesome stepson as well. Pleased with herself, she tipped the coachman and headed inside.

"Antoni! Antoni, you lazy boy, where are you?"

Antoni's ears caught the screech of his mother's voice and he began to panic. He was far from being finished with the kitchen and all his work would come to naught now that his stepmother was home. His mind began to spin, trying to think of a plan to get things done without being noticed. He quickly ran out of the kitchen and into the living room where his stepmother now stood and forced a smile. 

"Y-yes, mother?"

Denimael eyed Antoni. She saw the fear in his eyes that he couldn't quite suppress. It was intoxicating. It also betrayed his nervousness. "Why did you not answer the door when the carriage pulled up?"

The gears in Antoni's head turned. "I was fixing dinner for you and my brothers since I knew that you would be home soon. That's all it was."

"Really? Then let me see what you have prepared." She reached over, grabbed his arm, spun him around and forced him to walk or be dragged as she headed for the kitchen.

Antoni knew he was in for it now. "But, mother...I-I'm not finished yet and need some more time t-to finish," he begged, hoping to buy time.

She pushed open the door and studied the kitchen. He had made a little progress, but not enough to even be considered as any work done. She released his arm and stepped completely inside. She had known, of course, about the devestation. When she had forbidden Jatin and Kyros from attacking him, she knew her beloved sons would go on a rampage. The only way for them to really strike back at Antoni was through the garden and the kitchen, two areas he couldn't control.

She stopped and placed her hand on the cutting table. Egg still dripped down one side, flour was everywhere and several dishes were broken. She glanced over at Antoni still standing in the doorway and she smiled. "I've been gone all day and yet, you couldn't be bothered to clean until now?"

Antoni stood and thought. He could tell her the truth, but would that really matter? Even though he had managed to fix the garden, thanks to some help, and was beginning to work on the kitchen, Antoni knew she wouldn't care. He hung his head, ready for whatever punishment she had planned for him.

"Nothing to say? You must be the dumbest person I have ever met, Stepson. And useless. If your father could see you now," she paused and sniffed dramatically, "he would die of shame. No food for you for the next three days. Water only. Oh, and since you insist on making a mess like a pig, you can sleep outside with them as well. I will not tolerate this laziness, Antoni!"

Antoni nodded in acknowledgement, bowing his head lower. "Yes, mother," he answered in a broken tone.

Antoni waited a moment to see if she would think of anything else to torment him.

She gave him one more menacing glare before sweeping from the room.

* * *

Four days later....

Lhan'strou stood cloaked and watchful in a corner of the Zibethal Merchants' Way market. He was waiting for Khan'strou to arrive so that they could be escorted to King Cidell. Things were heating up and in less than three weeks, the Kingdom of Lysky would be theirs. He could almost taste the sweet bite of victory. This was owed to them. They deserved to rule while others bowed at their feet.

Khan'strou made his way through the crowd, followed by two soldiers. As he moved the crowd parted for him almost by instinct. The slight hood darkened his features as he spotted his brother. Khan'strou waited until he was right upon the meeting spot to act or speak, the guards still behind him. "Brother, we have our escort."

Lhan'strou was surprised a bit by the two guards but voiced nothing. He trusted his brother's wisdom. He moved from his position by the wall and fell into step with Khan'strou. Fifteen minutes later, they were outside the palace's back entrance. He rapped twice, once, and then three times. After a moment, the door creaked open. Lhan'strou went inside first and spotted the person who had opened the door. It was a young girl, no more than ten years old who stood staring at him with wide brown eyes.

Her gaze swung from him to his brother and the guards. She waited until everyone was inside before closing the door. She moved back to the front and without a word, walked toward the staircase.

He didn't speak, but only gave a small gesture before following the girl up the stairs. The route she took was full of twists and turns that were meant to confuse them. Unfortunately for the girl, Lhan'strou was very good with directions and would be able to find his way back, no matter how much they tried to disguise the way to the meeting room.

Finally, she stopped at a plain oak door, knocked once and pushed the door open to reveal a large room with a huge table in the middle. Twenty-four chairs ringed it and four seats were empty. Lhan'strou entered as did his brother. The guards took up positions outside as the girl closed the door before scampering to the side of the man wearing the eye patch.

Yomlin smiled coldly at Lhan'strou. "Please, take a seat and relax. We are waiting on the last two."

"Is your king not going to speak with us directly? I thought we sought the same ends? I don't take kindly to being double-crossed." Khan'strou calmly stated as he leaned back in the seat.

Yomlin grinned and his grin was full of teeth and malice. "OUR king, is a little busy at the moment. The two left to come, will speak on his behalf."

Lhan'strou snorted. Was King Cidell getting cold feet? That could bode ill for their cause if he did.

The door creaked open and all eyes turned to the door. Lhan'strou forgot to breath as he watched two of the most beautiful women walk in.

Khan'strou's eyes fixated on the two women. His curiosity ate at him, but he said nothing. He waited as they crossed to the other side of the table and sat down.

"Gentlemen, may I present to you, Queen Mystale and Princess Tystale. They will speak and answer any questions as the King's representatives."

"Greetings, everyone." Queen Mystale replied as she and the princess took the remaining two seats, putting them directly across from Lhan'strou and Khan'strou.

Yomlin stood and began speaking. "Everyone in this room has, at one time or another, suffered oppression or defeat at the hands of Lysky's royal family. It is our unfortunate that the current regime under King Reglasky has been a peaceful one."

"Unfortunate? In what way?" demanded a raven-hair man in his mid-forties.

"Because peace feeds a soldier's discontent. They train for battles that they will never fight. We, however, will be changing that."

Khan'strou only grinned. "Regalsky's reign as king may be a peaceful one, but as a prince, leading his father's armies, the man was cold-blooded. I watched that day as that man and his troops rampaged through my home village. He may have peace now, but he will finally suffer for the pain he caused my brother and I as children." Khan'strou's face showed a twisted smile, anticipating revenge.

The other members murmured their own versions of agreement while the Queen and Princess kept unreadable expressions on their face.

"We have heard that the King plans to throw a ball in his daughter's honor. We wish to crash his little party and topple his government all in one swoop. I know, as well, that you two have been planning something for a while. I am here to offer you support. Whatever you need, it's yours." Queen Mystale added. 

Her gaze was focused squarely on them. Lhan'strou decided right then and there that she was the one he would have to watch out for. She was the type that would stab a friend in the back without qualm.

Khan'strou listened calmly and leaned back in the seat. "I appreciate the offer. Any help you can provide will be very useful in toppling his throne. My brother and I have resources to check upon, but we will keep in touch to make this downfall happen." Khan'strou replied in a calm demeanor. "Do you have any questions for us?"

"Only one. Will you be killing the entire royal family or did you have some other plan in mind for them?"

Khan'strou's smile spread wide across his face. "They will all eventually die, but not before we have a little fun with them. It's no good to throw away a toy without at least playing with it."

The mocking and cruel laughter filled the air. Yomlin vocalized his amusement. "That's what I always admired about the Strou family line. Bloodthirsty and practical. Always a scary combination."

Khan'strou stood. "Now if you'll excuse us, my brother and I must take our leave."

"By all means. We will send messengers with more information as the time draws closer." The Queen assured him.

Lhan'strou stood and bowed. "We humbly say thank you for all your help."

"As long as it is to our mutual benefit, why not offer to help an ally?" The Princess spoke.

"Why not, indeed." Lhan'strou mused before walking out of the room. They were met by their guide who took them and their escort along a different route. Soon they were outside the castle and Lhan'strou let out a sigh.

Khan'strou waited for a moment as they continued on their way out of the outside town. "You are concerned about our dealings with our new ally." Khan'strou painted his thoughts as he continued walking.

"I fear they may turn on us when convenient. I urge caution, that is all."

Khan'strou chuckled. "It is reasonable to understand your concerns. The queen is a very shrewd and ambitious woman and will trip an ally to get away from a lion. I don't walk into negotiations without a few tricks hidden away. We will be ready if there is any trickery on their behalf."

"I believe in you, brother." Lhan'strou stopped and looked about. "This is where I will take my leave of you. I will be in contact with you again as soon as I hear from our allies about their next move."

Khan'strou nodded. "I will be waiting." Khan'strou separated from his brother and headed off in another direction. He had other contacts to make and needed to sow some further distrust and misinformation into the king and queen and their army. Raising one army and contacting shady allies would not be enough.

Lhan'strou watched his brother leave. Without turning around he spoke. "Following people is a bad habit you might want to consider breaking."

He heard a giggle and then felt the softest of touches and then their invisible follower was gone. He sighed and was glad that they had not been talking about anything in particular that could come back to haunt them later. He pulled his hood back up over his head and headed for the shadows and the outskirts of town.

* * *

Antoni continued moving about the house, working at his chores. His step-brothers hadn't given him any major trouble for the last few days and it started to eat at him. When were they going to do something? Antoni stopped in the kitchen and admired his work. He had managed to fix everything back and it gave him satisfaction to know he could undo their damage most of the time. Noticing the time, he went out into the garden to gather some vegetables. Lunch would need to be fixed shortly.

A loud knock rang out, shattering the silence in the house.

Antoni ran back into the house, vegetables in hand. He hurriedly dropped them on the kitchen table before rushing for the front door. He straightened himself a little and dusted off a little dirt before opening the door.

On the other side of the door was Leywis in full uniform. "Good afternoon, Antoni."

Antoni's jaw dropped slightly. "S-Sir?" He could speak nothing more as his mind tried to wrap around the situation.

"May I come in?"

Still speechless, Antoni nodded and stepped to the side. He shook his head after Leywis came in, closing the door behind him.

Leywis looked about and turned to Antoni. "Is your family home?"

Antoni shook his head. "No, they are out, but they should be back soon. Is there anything I can do for you, sir?" he asked, his mind swirling with the worst ideas of what could be going on.

Leywis smiled and it was a kind one. "Yes, go get cleaned up. You're coming with me today." 

Antoni blinked. "I, uh, yes, sir." He made his way into the kitchen and grabbed the vegetables on the table to clean. "I have to make sure they have lunch to eat before I go," he half-mumbled.

Leywis followed him to the kitchen and frowned. He walked over and put his hand on Antoni's. "Is this what I asked you to do?"

Antoni stopped. "No, but-but, I need to make, they need me to make, to do....."

"Antoni, you're going to get your first lesson in military protocol right now. When your superior officer gives you an order, you obey it immediately and without question. Understand?"

Antoni took a deep breath and nodded. "Yes, sir." He dropped the vegetables and turned to Leywis. "Please give me one moment to get ready."

"I'll be at the front door."

Antoni nodded and ran down the stairs to his basement room. He quickly scrubbed in key areas and changed clothes. He was almost breathless when he made it back upstairs and to Leywis waiting at the door. Straightening himself, Antoni nodded to Leywis. "I'm ready."

With a curt nod, Leywis opened the door and stepped outside. At the gate were two horses. He turned to Antoni. "Do you know how to ride?"

"Yes, sir." he responded. "I learned from my father before he passed away."

"I see. Well that roan mare is for you." Leywis explained as he went out the gate and untied the reins and handed them to Antoni. He untied his own horse and swung up into his gelding's saddle. "Mount up. We have to go to the registration office."

"Yes, sir." Antoni mounted his ride and followed Leywis' lead along the road towards their destination.

It was a thirty-minute ride to the registration site and neither talked. The silence was companionable and was eventually broken by the sounds of metal clanging and the shouts of commanders grilling the newest recruits. Leywis slowed his horse to a walk and moved closer to Antoni's mount. 

"You have nothing to be afraid of here. Just do your best, follow directions and everything will be all right."

Antoni nodded. "Yes, sir. I will do my best." He got down from the mare and surveyed the actions going on around him. "Um, where should I go first?"

Leywis chuckled. "Follow me." He dismounted and led the way toward a rather large tent at the far end of the camp. "Good day, General Octaga. I bring you a newbie." he called out as he pulled aside the tent flap and ushered Antoni inside.

Seated at a square table was a massive man with graying hair and a fierce stare. "Leywis, my boy! You haven't been around in a while. I was starting to think you thought you were too good for us."

"No, sir, been busy keeping the Princess out of trouble."

The General laughed and stood. He slapped Leywis on the back. "That's the spirit. Now, who is this?" He turned his attention to Antoni.

Leywis walked over to Antoni and placed a reassuring hand on his shoulder. "This, sir, is Antoni Powrinov."

Antoni nodded and then bowed. "Hello, s-sir." he nodded again. He remained confused about what exactly to do as this was a completely new experience to him. He stood silently, almost having to remember to breathe because the fear of doing something stupid or angering the general or Leywis swallowed his thoughts.

The General studied him with a critical eye. "Tell me, Boy, what does your father think of you joining the guard?"

Antoni breathed out a sigh. "My father is dead, sir." Antoni blinked half-expecting a roar of anger or some kind of outburst.

The General merely grunted. "And this is something you wish to do? Become a guard and protect our kingdom, especially our Princess?"

"Yes, sir. I want to do what I can to safeguard our kingdom and our princess, Sir." Antoni answered as calmly as he could. He didn't want his timidity to be the main trait the general saw in him.

The General gave him another measuring look. "I'll give you a try, Boy. If you don't live up to my expectations, you'll be cut loose, understand?"




Cinderlove Ch. 04



"Yes, sir. Thank you , sir." Antoni nodded and then remained calm, trying to keep a relaxed demeanor about himself.

"I'll be taking him back home for now, General, but I'll make sure he's here, bright and early for training." Leywis promised.

The General harrumphed. "He'd better or it'll be you I skin."

Leywis grinned and guided Antoni out of the tent and to the horses. "Let's get you back home. Tell no one in your house that you are training with the guards. I think it might cause you much grief and I'd rather you be focused on training."

"Y-yes, sir. I will." he nodded to Lewywis and ascended to the top of his horse. He had do follow Leywis back to his prison. He could never call it a home, but just remained silent on the return trip.

When they arrived at the house, Leywis dismounted and waited for Antoni to get down. "I think you should be safe for now. And if there are any questions where you were, direct them to me."

Antoni once again just nodded. "Yes, sir." Any feelings of pride and satisfaction he felt melted now that he was back. He dismounted the horse and slowly made his way to the door. Before opening the door, he turned to Leywis and bowed. "Thank you again, sir."

"Don't thank me yet. Training starts tomorrow. I'll be here around 8:00. Have a good evening, Antoni." Leywis tipped his hat and went back to the horses. He mounted, gathered up the mare's reins and rode away.

Antoni took a deep breath, opened the door and awaited what ever furies were to be sent his way. He studied the house and searched for signs of his step-brothers or step-mother. They would no doubt have something to say and likely do about his absence.  

As Antoni moved about the rooms, he found no trace or his step-family. He took the opportunity and did what chores he could to try to keep them off of his back when they returned and then made his way to his room in the basement. He needed to get some sleep.