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  “Rest now, child, so you’ll be fresh tonight. I want you at your best.”

  Her vision dimmed as a sense of falling, spinning, and blackness swallowed her. No, no…go away…no, I won’t let you….

  They came, the shadow creatures. Sharp claws reached scratching, pulling downward into pitch black. She struggled against Master’s will to form another image. The scene changed to a white city sparkling in the morning sun. Tall, angular, and stern-faced being, glowing like lanterns, stood before a gate. She’d never seen anyone so beautiful except for Master, but he didn’t shine with light as these creatures. The images faded, and she was back on the bed. She kept her eyes closed and listened.

  Roderick had returned and stood beside Master at the door. The page let out a low whistle. “How does she do that? What’s it mean, sire?”

  “It means, my dear boy, that we must keep her abnormality a secret. Imagine what people will think? Already they believe she is a freak and not of sound mind. You can see why I must send her away. For her own good and for everyone’s safety.”

  “She’s frightening, my Lord, for sure.”

  “Indeed.” He let out a long breath. “Now, boy, did you do as I asked?”

  “Yes, sire. Sir Bollus is waiting in your study.”

  “Very good. Now, go inform the jailor I’m depriving him of his assistant. A new one will be provided by tomorrow. Then find the boy’s parents. Have them escorted to a dungeon cell for not keeping better control of their son. I’ll insist on an extra two years of servitude to make up for his transgression. The boy will serve his remaining time working in the dungeon.”

  Roderick bowed. “Yes, sire. Anything else?”

  “Call for one of the staff to come here before the ball and prepare the Princess. Both children should sleep for a couple of hours at least. When the boy awakens, have him taken down to the dungeons and shackled. Tomorrow, he can start his new duties.”

  The door closed with a click of the lock.

  Bolting up, Princess gripped her stomach as the sensation of free-falling into a bottomless pit remained. Her mind whirled. Master was sending her away with that beast-man. She jumped to her feet. No, she had to find a way out this mess.

  At least Tarek was still alive, otherwise Darnel wouldn’t plan on giving him her job. He might be a rat, but she hated to see him come to harm, too. She wondered if he’d take care of the old dungeon keeper as she had? Hard to tell which side of the fence Tarek walked on any given day.

  She went to the door and tried the knob. Locked, of course. The key was outside above the frame. Her forehead rested against the smooth wood. If only she had grabbed it earlier. How much time before the ball? She might try escaping during the festivities. Find a way to the messenger. Then what? Possibly hide in one of the tunnels.

  Not for long. Master had too many ways of finding people when he wanted to.

  Flopping back on the bed, Princess’ thoughts raced until her head ached. Even if she did escape, then what? Where would she go? Perhaps she should give in. Or give up. Perhaps she needed to end it all herself?

  She closed her eyes and took a deep breath. No, she didn’t want to die. She wanted to be free.

  The dress rustled like paper as she gathered her old clothes from behind the screen. From the hidden pocket, she took out the medallion. Her finger traced the vine surrounding the tree. Squeezing the disk tight she wished for a way to get her out of this mess. Yet nobody could help her now.

  “You’re on your own,” she said to her reflection in the mirror.

  Dismay drooped her shoulders as she stared at the gaunt girl in the mirror. Working in the prison may have provided some freedom , but not without cost. Dark circles sank under her gold-brown eyes. Her reddish-brown hair hung limp around her oval-shaped face. Taking a brush from the vanity table, she worked out the tangles, allowing the tresses to fall over her narrow shoulders. The rough dress itched her pale skin. How would she endure this night? From the tall windows, the sun now arched toward the west.

  Something thumped outside her room.

  Princess dropped the brush. Had they already come for her? She shoved the medallion into her bodice and leapt to the bed, pretending to sleep.

  “Psst, you there?” whispered a familiar male voice.

  “Tarek?” She sat up and hurried over. "How? Is it really you?”

  “Yeah.” His voice sounded groggy and hoarse. “Can you let me in?”

  “No, Master set the lock. But listen…” A loud thump hit the door. “What’s that?”

  “Huh? I’m so tired.” He whined. “Can I come in and take a nap with you?”

  He was still drowsy from the food. “Tarek, listen! We don’t have much time. Grab the key above the door frame.”

  Silence. Maybe he was looking. She pressed her ear to the wood and heard snoring. “Tarek!”

  “Key? Up there?” he muttered. Something metal clattered onto the floor. “Ouch, my head!”

  The knob rattled, turned, and she yanked open the door as he stumbled inside. Grabbing the key, she quickly secured the lock.

  “How did you manage to wake up?”

  Tarek collapsed on the bed. When his eyes closed, he jerked himself awake. “Monsters chasing me. Scary. Long nails.” He arched his fingers mimicking the dream spirits. “I woke up, like my dad told me to. Said if you’re having bad dreams wake yourself.”

  She snorted, shaking her head.

  His lids began to close again. He shook his head, fighting against the potion.

  “Works for me, so there.” He chuckled. Then getting back to his feet, he grew serious. “We are in so much trouble. King Darnel plans to marry you off. To that troll goon we saw in the hall. He’s disgusting and stinks.”

  He stood unsteadily over her, eyes glazed and bloodshot. “No matter how annoying you’ve been, nobody deserves that.”

  Why did her heart have to race so fast when he got close?

  His warm breath smelled like the sweet cakes and tea. “Wow, you look…incredible.”

  Her cheeks began to burn. She shoved him back.

  “We have to get you out of here, Princess.”

  “Come with me. Please? We can both escape his punishment.”

  A smile dimpled his cheek. “I’ve had a feeling you cared about me, too. You know, it was obvious the way you were always calling me names and all.”

  “Tarek.” She grabbed his shoulders.

  He talked craziness. Most likely from the potion. When he came out of the stupor, he’d regret saying all this.

  “You are so cute when you’re irritated.” He snickered, smiling wickedly. “I’d hide you in my pocket. But I can’t. It’s not big enough.”

  “Tarek! Stop.” She shook him harder. His arms went around her. She groaned, trying to push him away. “Snap out of this! We have to get out of here. Now. Any ideas?”

  He rubbed his face, slapping his cheeks.

  “You need shoes.” He went to the closet. A pair of traveling boots flew out across the room. “Put those on,” his muffled voice came from within. “I don’t see… ugh, there’s only dresses.”

  He stumbled backward, grasping the door frame for support. He sounded more in control of his speech when he said in a commanding tone, “You get back down into the dungeon, but keep out of sight. Don’t let anyone, and I mean nobody catch you. Got it?”

  She retrieved the boots and slipped them on.

  “Go find the loon, or the messenger. He’s probably crazy enough to try getting past the dragon.”

  “But, I’ve looked and—”

  He held up a hand to silence her. “Listen, there are no tunnels out of the mountain, but one will take you to the river. Right beside the dragon’s feeding post is a narrow passage. Bushes hide the entrance. From there, follow the river. You’ll find a trail leading down the cliffs beside the falls.”

  “I’ve never heard—”

  “’Course not. Not a secret if everyone knows,” he whispered, placing a finger ov
er his mouth. “I won’t lie. It’s really dangerous, but possible. That’s why he keeps the dragon in that area. And why nobody cared about you wasting your time exploring.”

  He rubbed at his face, pressing the balls of his hands against his eyes. “Help the messenger escape, and I bet he’ll help you. People have gotten out before.”

  “Tarek…” She couldn’t believe he knew of more tunnels than she did. “Come with me. He’s going to make you work in the dungeon.”

  He headed to the door. “No, I can’t. I probably should, but I can’t leave my family. And I … just don’t… I’m not sure about all that….” He peeked out before adding, “Besides, if I behave and show I’m willing to work hard, King Darnel might be willing to forgive.” He smirked again. “You’ll be back anyway. You’ll find out all those dreams you have are just that. Dumb dreams.”

  She glared at him, hating how smug and self-assured he seemed. “Then why did you… come?”

  The door clicked shut as Tarek turned to face her. His emerald eyes appeared clearer. In one quick motion, he crossed the space between them, grabbed her in his arms and pressed his lips to hers. She stiffened at first. Her racing heart slowed as she melted into his embrace. For a solitary moment, in the swirl of tumbling emotions, she forgot everything except for the sweetness of his kiss that tasted like the berry tea. Remembering the drug, she pulled away.

  Before releasing her, he whispered against her ear, “That’s why.”

  Next thing she knew, he was slipping out with a last warning, “Stay safe, okay? And hurry.”

  Her mind whirled with a desire to go after and make him leave with her. But what if his affections were brought on by the tainted food and not his real feelings? No, she had to hurry before she missed her best chance for escape. Not daring to look back at her room, or Tarek, she rushed out into the hall and into the closet which led her to the secret stairs. She didn’t slow until reaching the kitchen. No one seemed to notice as she hurried on to the dungeons, Tarek’s kiss still burning her lips.

  Chapter 5

  Boots slipped across the damp floor as Princess entered the silent chamber. She stopped to listen.

  Why so dark and quiet?

  She felt along the cold, stone wall of the first cell, moving slowly to keep from tripping. Ben had probably come to visit him despite his tiredness. When unsuccessful with a prisoner, he usually turned off the lanterns and let them sit in the quiet darkness with their last thoughts.

  That is, unless they’d already come for him.

  Dread seeped through her heart. The grand ball started in less than two hours. If she turned back now, Master might never know she left. She pulled out the medallion, her fingers squeezing the round disk. For some reason, the feel of it in her hand always gave her courage.

  “How will I get down the mountain alone?” Despair weighed so heavily, she sank onto the dirt floor in a miserable heap. She couldn’t go back. Wouldn’t. Tarek said there was a way. Her knees quaked. Fear tightened a harsh fist around her gut.

  Then a whispered voice came to her in the darkness, barely audible. A solemn song. He still lived!

  She leaped to her feet and ran to the narrow window on his cell door. A dark shadow crouched in the corner.

  “Well, well,” the man chuckled. “You’re back.”

  Relief coursed through her tired body. “I need help getting out of here. I think there’s a way. A trail leading down the mountain. Would you be willing to…?” The question faltered. What if he didn’t want to help her? Why should he?

  “You never told me your name, child. You must have returned at great risk.”

  If only she had a real name to give. No way would she tell him what everyone really called her. Cheeks burning, she dug her toe into the dirt, keeping her gaze on the ground. “Master Darnel has taken my memories. I don’t know my name. I only know—”

  “That you don’t belong here.” He stood and met her at the window. “I am Dean, messenger of the great king, Shaydon. I am at your service, dear sister. We will learn the truth soon enough when we reach Aloblase.” His rough hand rested on her fingers through the bars.

  She blinked back tears. He was willing to help.

  “Is it far to—?”

  Harsh voices came from the corridor. She gasped, searching for somewhere to hide.

  “Get in the next cell,” he whispered. “Do not take any chances to help me. While the dragon is busy…” he cleared his throat, “find the trail down the mountain. Head east until you come upon a town with the same emblem as that on your medallion. They will lead you to the King’s Highway.”

  Princess ducked into the next cell moments before three soldiers entered the small, circular room. Boots scraped over the rock floor. The chamber filled with flickering light. Keys rattled. The heavy oak door wailed as they yanked it open.

  “I don’ see nobody else,” one of the black clad guards said. “She ain’t gonna come dis nasty place. Not for some ol’ loon liken this one.”

  Princess peered through a crack between the door and frame. Four guards pulled Dean into the center and tied his arms behind his back.

  The captain asked, “I don’t suppose you’ve seen the Princess girl, have you?”

  “A Princess? Here?” He chuckled, shaking his bruised head.

  She hunkered behind the oak door, making herself as small as possible. The cell door swung open wider, hitting her leg. Light flooded the square room sending several rats scurrying in different directions. Her teeth clamped on her bottom lip to suppress the scream rising up her throat.

  Two more guards appeared. “Ain’t no sign of her. She’s hiding somewhere up in the castle, I tell ya.”

  Master knew she’d escaped! Oh no, no, no! Had Tarek been caught returning to the tower?

  Bringing her fisted hands to her mouth, she pleaded silent words against the medallion that he’d not be killed for helping her. Please, let him be okay.

  One of the rats darted toward her hiding spot, coming too close. She pulled her skirt tight around her trembling legs.

  “Well, not our problem then,” replied the captain. “Let’s get this done. We can enjoy our evening more with him out of the way.”

  The soldiers grabbed Dean by each arm and led him into the tunnel to the dragon’s feed post.

  She held her breath, not daring to move until their footsteps were a mere echo down the walkway. Her boot sent the rat flying into the shadows with a loud squeak.

  Keeping their torches in view, she removed her clomping shoes before following at a safe distance. Shadowy things moved across the rocks. The tunnel sloped gradually upward and soon a rush of coolness blew her brown tendrils. Her pace slowed, ears fixed on all sounds—the dripping of water, crickets chirping, the thump of booted feet on dirt, and wind whistling down the tunnel. A shaft of sunlight reflected off the chiseled surface.

  Outside, she heard their struggling grunts as Dean fought his bindings. Pausing to form a plan, she peeked out and spotted a clump of bushes next to the exit. That might work. Hopefully, the dragon wouldn’t be interested in dinner before the moon rose, though it had been a long while since the last meal.

  She eased to the opening, until she had a clear view of the soldiers and Dean. Fresh blood ran from his nose. His bruised eyes caught sight of her, and he struggled harder, giving her the chance she needed to duck behind the foliage.

  “There,” said one of the guards. “Let’s see you get out of that.” He spat at Dean then turned to the other two. “I’m ready for some ale and food. How about you?”

  A mumbled agreement spread through the group. The youngest one hesitated. “We ain’t gonna wait ‘til the dragon shows up?”

  The other men laughed and shook their heads.

  “No, thank you,” replied the captain. “We’ll give a ring.” He pointed to a large bell attached to the cliff wall next to the opening. “And head out of here. Not sure she’ll come out before dusk, but maybe. Don’t care to take the chance of getting r
oasted myself.”

  With that, they all disappeared down the hole. The last one in yanked the cord a couple of times, sending out a loud jangling melody. Princess counted to ten, allowing them to get well into the tunnel, then bolted from her hiding place.

  “We need something to untie you.” She yanked on the thick ropes.

  “My pack.” He jerked his head toward the bag on his back. “There’s a dagger to cut the cords.”

  She reached inside and brought out a knife much larger than the bag itself. No time to question the logistics now. She sliced through the binding.

  He pulled a long leather sling from his pants pocket and took the dagger in his other hand. Quickly, she slipped back into her boots. They both looked around for a minute, taking in the open valley below the cliff. Only death lay in that direction. The land was burnt, charred, and parched. Princess searched for the adjacent cave Tarek described. A narrow crevice opened behind some dried brush.

  The ground shook as a terrible, earsplitting roar filled the valley and bounced off the cliffs.

  “Through here!” She tugged at his arm.

  Dean pushed her toward the opening. The earth shook again as the dragon bellowed after them. Dirt and pebbles poured onto their heads. They raced into the darkness.

  “I wish I had a light.” she stumbled into several sharp edged rocks. “Should have grabbed a lantern.”

  The tunnel filled with a dim brightness, and she could now maneuver the twists and turns ahead. Dean gasped. Princess figured he must have found some kind of torch. The floor dipped, and she ran faster hoping the dragon was unaware of the passageway. They burst from the tunnel into a thick patch of pines. Off to the south was the sound of rushing water.

  Dean stared at her, his mouth agape. “You really are…. You’re a—” Her grabbed her shoulders. “Oh, we must get you home.”

  He slid off the backpack and handed it to her. “Keep this. If anything happens to me, you’ll find many necessities for traveling inside.” He then lifted the medallion from around his neck and slipped it over her head. “Hold this for me too, please. King Shaydon will be sure—”