Koen

  The royal guard really are no joke. Colorful curses tumble from my mouth as I hurdle over stumps and rocks and roots that jut from the ground. An impossible smile creeps onto my face as I weave through the woods that only grow denser. I seem to have lost my pursuers. This is ridiculous. I pause, lean against the trunk of a tall, twisted tree and catch my breath. In the stolen moment of peace, I focus, try to concentrate my energy, but the warm light that glows at my fingertips flickers, then dies out. Shouts overlap uncomfortably close by. I breathe in a lungful of earthy air and start running again.

  Maella

  This story originates from Royal Road. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there.

  I twirl, watching as my skirts in the mirror continue to spin even after I’d stopped. I look outside through the window that covers an entire side of my room. The twilight sky has turned an ocean-deep blue, and the stars swimming in it wink at me through the glass. Out of dozens of gowns I’ve tried on tonight, i suddenly know this is the one. I smooth a hand down the crimson satin, half expecting the fabric to stain my palms like blood. When it doesn’t, I trace careful fingertips over the heart-shaped neckline, dotted with tiny, intricate jewels. The bodice and skirt are the same rose-petal red, but the crystals that trickle down the dress are the color of pomegranate seeds, imitating drops of dew, dripping off the tips of leaves. I stare for only a moment, before beginning to pin my hair back. I twist and braid and tug at the tawny locks, ensuring that it’s going to stay out of my face all night.

  I’m putting on my gloves when I hear Fathers horse whinny in front of the manor. He was given to Father by the Court when he became governor of New Kings Ward- a lean, stallion the color of rich earth, the Golden Royal Court insignia branded into his side. Mother is already in the carriage when I step out. I pet Sorrel’s coat and climb in beside her.