Dawn's pov

The evening breeze blew towards the pool side and I felt more chilled as the water danced around me.

There is nothing else that makes me calm and exuberant than swimming in the clean pool next to our house.

I'm Dawn...about to turn twenty years old and makes basket for a living - together with my mother.

We've been doing all we can to survive after my father abandoned us.

Yes...we woke up one morning and discovered he was gone with his belongings.

But I'm glad we're doing well without him.

And I have big dreams of leaving the kingdom to another place to start a new life far from the devious king - King Lee.

He's the furious king that ever lived. His rules are strict and unstained.

Rumor has it that he's has a complete psycho.

He's powerful and slays men effortlessly.

This features doesn't bother me cause I don't intend to meet him - never!

What bothers me is the dreams I've been having lately.

They appear to be mysterious and complicated with threatening images of king Lee.

It seemed more like he was in great danger.

The visions and revelations gives me sleepless nights at times and I keep wondering why I had to be the unfortunate one to see them.

To be sincere, I do fear king Lee.

My mother told me stories of how his father despised healing witches and hanged them during his reign.

Too bad!!!

I was born with strange healing powers but I didn't know how to use it until I turned 18 years old.

I was shocked the moment I relieved mom from a terrible fever she had.

You can as well say am proud of my powers and I'll do all I can to protect them from the horrible king..

*

I sighed and swam back to the edge of the pool climbing out.

I reached for my maiden dress and wore it quickly before I would be spotted ***** by someone.

*Dawn!* I heard mom call from a distant and I turned to look at her.

She scuttled to where I was with a vicious look.

"You stubborn girl! I've told you countless times to stop coming to this place alone. You know bad things can happen at anytime" She peeved.

"Geez mom. I'm not a child. I...I can take care of myself, okay?..." I groused walking past her.

"Where do you think you're going to Dawn??

You promised to help me get some twigs for the baskets we'll be making tomorrow" Her voice echoed behind me.

I paused and cringed agitated.

More chores upon chores...

"Fine... I'll see you later" I chided and began walking away.

"Alright. Be back before it gets dark, hun..?" Her voice trailed off.

`

`

I started towards the part that led to the bushes where we'd usually get good twigs fit for the baskets.

Blade's pov

The car moved hastily down the road. Time was running out and I could only but quiver!

I have to do everything I can to save our kingdom.

The great king Lee's demands must be met.

And with this thought, I held onto princess Anna's hand and gripped it tightly.

She wore a veil covering her beautiful face but I could tell that The look on her face was of sorrow and heartbreak.

But what could we have done?

She's the most pure among the twelve daughters of the king in our kingdom and King Lee has asked our king to provide one of his daughters whom is more precious than the others.

Princess Anna here is the only one suitable to carry out this demand.

Her face has never been seen by anyone aside her parents and maids so her worth is much more that King Lee will definitely find delight in her.

King Lee...

A complete psychotic man for a king.

He's the only son of his poor parents who died of a strange illness and the kingship was passed to him.

Everyone knows that Lee is a crazy young boy...very strange and makes stupid comments.

No one knows what's ever in that mind of his. He acts without warning and he ends up doing the unthinkable so everyone is set to please him.

Lee is young but he's powerful and extremely dangerous.

He has conquered lots of great kingdoms and now our king is left at his Mercy.

King Lee has demanded for this and our dear princess has fallen victim of his cruelty.

"I'm scared Sir Blade" The princess's voice wavered and I sighed.

"I know my dear but you have to be strong for your father and the entire kingdom.

"All you have to do is to obey the king and no harm shall before you" I whispered.

She looked out through the window.

"I heard that he's a crazy person, yet a powerful king. How do I cope with such a person?" She said obviously terrified.

I took a deep sigh feeling quite relieved that we were getting close to King Lee's palace...

We have just today to deliver the princess to him and it has been a long ride from our kingdom.

Oh God!

The car strode along a hilly and rocky road.

"Don't bother about that. He'll find favor in your eyes immediately he sees how pure you are" I enthused prevaricating.

She took her eyes from me and looked down at her thighs,,I supposed cause the veil was a bit transparent.

"The fear is beyond me - it's too much for me to handle...I'm too weak at heart sir.

I can't behold the presence of such a man for the rest of my life.

"I don't know what he'll do to me so I can't do this. Tell father I'm sorry" She bickered irascibly And with that, the door of the car opened immediately and she jumped out right before I could hold her.

"Stop!" I screamed alarmed.

I gawped stupefied gazing at the green pastures along the valleys.

The car stopped in a quick brake and I got out.

The princess.

Did she really fall? And could she have survived it???

"What's going on sir...? I heard something crash..." The driver asked looking around.

I began panting, my arms and legs crumbling in fear.

What...what just happened?

"T-The princess jumped out of the car down the slopes. We need to find her" I rasped and the guards swung into action leaving me behind.

I moved feebly along with them through the landslide area filled with green grasses and trees.

How could she have concluded to take such a risk during a time like this?

When the kingdom needed her the most.

I don't even want to imagine what the king would do to us.

*She's down here!* One of the guards yelled and our eyes rested on him.

He was standing on a huge rock and pointing downwards.

No...it can't be!

I got close enough and shrunk the moment I landed my eyes on the unconscious princess.

Blood droplet dropped from her head to her white face. Her veil had fallen and her face appeared cold and facial...It can't be!

The guard who had alerted us stooped to a crouch and felt her wrist probably checking her pulse.

He shivered and stood up to his feet with his mouth hanging.

"She's dead" He muttered releasing the bombshell and it exploded right in our heads.

Ugh!!!

The princess is no more...

So who would bear us now??

`

`

Dawn's pov:

I picked up the woods hurriedly so I could get home before it gets dark.

I wondered if the ones I had were be enough as I moved deeper into the bushes.

I wouldn't want to come here again tomorrow so I have to gather as many twigs that I can.

Suddenly, I heard distinct noises and I froze for a while listening to the sounds.

I once thought of leaving with the twigs already but I scrutinized on who could be among the bushes at this evening time.

I went further towards the place the noises were coming from as quiet as possible so I don't get noticed.

I was able to see men...

Four strange looking men and they appeared to be in distress from the looks on their faces.

What's going on? Who are they?

I snapped out from the short trance and turned to leave the hiding spot.

My eyes almost bulged out of it's sockets as I saw a long green snake before me.

The twigs instantly fell from my hands and my survival instincts moved me to jerk out of the plants and I landed on the floor crashing my back.

The snake crawled out along with me and I retreated steadfastly dragging my butt on the hard ground.

The snake was coming for me!!

Immediately, a sharp shining blade flew from an unknown location and sliced clean off the snake's neck.

Oh my God!!

The chopped-off head dropped to the ground and the headless snake shook vigorously to death.

I looked up alarmed.

One of the men had killed the snake!

The other younger looking one stretched his hand out to me and I took it without much hesitation.

He pulled me up and I stood to my feet though I was already weak on the knees.

"Are you alright?" The older looking one asked with beady eyes.

I nodded abruptly still recovering from the shock of almost being bitten to death by a rather poisonous snake.

The whole thing happened so fast and is quite overwhelming.

Blade's pov

Gazing at the strange girl whom I just saved made me think further than I should.

Her beauty is priceless and I was starting to get the hunch that she must be a goddess or something...

Where in the world did she come from?

"Thank you kind sir...for saving me" She said with a cracked voice.

"You're welcome dear" I chimed in and she smiled.

Oh heavens!

Her dimples appeared making her appear more appealing and angelic.Such rare features.

But then....

The dead princess.

I don't know what we'll do about her.

I'm sure King Lee won't spare our kingdom if we don't deliver the princess to him tonight.

He'll order his able-bodied soldiers to crush us all and no one will ever know such people like us existed because he'll definitely wipe us out if a princess is not given.

I watched the guards stare wistfully at the innocent girl who stood nervous beating off the dirt from her dress.

"What is your name?" I asked wryly.

She lifted her face gazing intently at me.

"I'm Dawn" she replied.

"Perfect...from now on, you will answer the name - Princess Anna" I professed and the rest of the men glanced at me.

"What?...I don't understand" She chided now staring at us with suspicion.

I made a signal that only my men would recognize and gradually, they surrounded the girl so she doesn't run off.

"Dawn, we're men from the kingdom of Thor and our land is at the mercy of your king - King Lee.

"You see, we were bringing the sacred princess to him as he has commanded but along the road...she committed suicide and she was our dearest hope of saving our land" I paused to scrutinize over the expression on her face.

"What...what does this have to do with me? I really don't think I can help you in anyway sir" she wavered taking a step back.

She was clearly scared of where we're heading to.

"She's dead which means we are doomed. But I'm sure you can help us. King Lee has never set her eyes on princess Anna so he has no idea of what she looks like.

"So once we bring him to you...he wouldn't have doubts at all".

Whaaat?

"Can you listen to yourself? You want me to Impersonate a princess??

Geez!

How in the world will I do that? I...I don't want to be a part of your ludicrous mission. It's close to dead sentence to trick someone like King Lee. I'm sorry but I can't help you" she bickered turning her back to leave but the men with held her.

"What are you doing??? Let me go...please!" She rasped struggling.

I quickly sent my hand to my sword and drew it out.

She has to decide.

The quick way or the hard way...

Alicia's pov

I walked through the royal hallway with so much glamour and enthusiasm.

My two maids scuttled behind me carrying the meal I have prepared for my husband - King Lee.

I was dressed in a ravishing short and tight dress which I'm sure he'll crave for the moment he sees me.

As we got to the huge doors that led to his private Chambers, I sighted the two men on guard.

I cussed under my breath. This is going to be a tough one.

But I still don't understand why meeting the king is more like a death mission.

I should be given the freedom to come in freely as his first wife...

Yes, I'm Alicia.

The king's first bride.

The other witch - Simone - is his second wife.

You can imagine the power tussle here.

I remember the day I was married off to the king in order for him to be crowned.

I felt like the happiest woman on Earth since I would be wife to a young, charming and powerful king despite the fact that he treats me so much like an outsider.

There was nothing that connected us at all except the girl I bore for him.

I could swear I almost died when Simone was brought to the palace from the kingdom of Muzana as requested by king Lee.

In no time, she got pregnant and I think it's almost due now.

That b**ch!

"The king doesn't want to be disturbed" The guard stated coldly and I glared.

"I've come all the way here to serve him his dinner...please let me see him" I pleaded desperately.

He has to touch me again.

I want to be the one to give him a son...

Even if it's just once but king Lee has been pushing me off like he's tired of me.

He's a crazy man alright...but his s'x styles makes him crazier.

"I'm afraid not - at least not now" The guard groused and I frowned.

I angrily retreated going back to my Chambers.

Ugh! This has to stop!

"Calm down my queen" one of the maids - Esme cooed behind me and it seemed to help a bit.

"But I'm getting impatient! This isn't fair at all. I don't know what f'-king next to do".

"Um...queen Alicia. There's something you should know...I overheard the king speaking to someone through the phone this morning.

"It appears a new wife is coming tonight. From the Kingdom of Thor" Esme whispered and I cringed.

Whaaat?

Another bride?...

This is going to be more interesting than I thought.

Dawn's pov

Tears filled my eyes as the car moved steadily towards the humongous palace.

I can't believe this is happening to me!

Being forced to Impersonate a dead princess and worse, I have to meet king Lee.

What are his intentions towards Princess Anna? What plans did he have in stored for her - for me??

Oh heavens...

I wonder how mom would take the news.

She'll he worried sick.

The so called Sir Blade sent one of his guards to tell Mom that I was safe and would be gone for quite sometime.

No mother would take such news lightly. I know she'd still panick.

Oh mom.

She has to be strong for me.

"We're almost there and you need to put this on" Sir Blade muttered handing me the veil belonging to the dead princess.

I shot the veil a stare muzzled by my feelings.

What am I doing?

I twitched a bit as I took the veil from him and wore it. It covered my face enough to hide my tears.

"You're now a princess. you need to behave special, surly and supercilious. Keep that in mind before you eat with your hands during the banquet tomorrow evening" He enthused.

There's going to be a banquet? Can this day get any worse?

*

Suddenly, I heard the car screeching a bit in a slow pace.

I lifted my head to behold the most porcelain gate I've ever seen.

What on Earth!

The gate was so huge and...I presume it's made of gold.

The way it shun brightly though it's evening was incredible.

We are here!

At the palace...ow.

I cringed a little as the car drove in but slowly. There were so many guards around and heavily armed with guns.

We went further into the large compound and I stared keenly at the beautiful flowers that was planted neatly around the wide surrounding.

I finally saw it...The royal castle!

So exquisite and has riches painted all-over the whole damn buildings.

The car came to a halt and I climbed out of the car with the help of 'Sir Blade'.

I so much hate him for putting me in such a difficult situation.

Separating me from my once fun normal life.

"We've arrived" He mumbled as we began walking to the mansion.

Two girls stood outside gazing at us like they were expecting us.

"Good evening your highness" Their low voices said with a bow.

"We've been out here waiting since morning your highness".

Sir Blade shot me a fierce stare and I didn't know when the words tore from my lips:

"Is that a complaint? Isn't that your duty??" I deadpanned and they shuddered.

"No, your highness. We're terribly sorry".

I glanced at Sir Blade and he wore a big smirk.

And his expression said it all...

*I'm doing a good job already*

"Please...come this way my princess. We'll take you to your bedroom so you can take a rest from your long journey" The black skinned maid offered.

I nodded and began following them in.

`

`

`

As the outside of the mansion was gorgeous so was the inside.

Everything was glittering and I've never seen such luxury in my whole life.

I was so uncomfortable walking in the heels owned by the dead princess.

Her dress was so lean and hugged tightly to my abdomen that I could hardly breath. She must have been a pretty slim lady.

I maintained my posture. Walking with courtesy as we got to my bedroom.

The fair maid unlocked the door with a key before easing it open and we went in.

The room was gloriously fabulous and the bed was so large sized.

Seriously??!

*Princess Anna* a voice said from behind but I didn't notice she was referring to me.

I heard it alright but I haven't gotten used to answering such a name.

"My princess???" I suddenly heard and twitched.

I faced the maids to see them staring at me - stunned.

But they quickly drifted their eyes from me cause I once heard, nobody looks royalty deep into the eyes.

"How many times did you call me?" I asked coyly.

"Three times, your highness" The dark one replied.

What?

I have to get used to being called this name. Other wise I'm doomed.

Sir Blade wasn't joking when he said he'd kill me and send my body parts back to the village. Mom would he heartbroken.

"What are your names?" I asked.

"Am Caroline, your personal maid and she's Abigail...she's in charge of bringing your meals" The first maid replied and I scoffed.

Aren't they the same thing??

"Alright. Abigail, you should leave. I don't think I'll be needing your services right now" i said turning my back on them.

In no time, I heard the door open and close inaudibly.

I took my hand to my face and pulled out the veil before turning to Caroline.

She gasped staring at my face like there was something there that shouldn't be there.

"You're so beautiful, your highness" she remarked and I smiled lightly.

`

`

After a cold bath and change of clothes, Caroline and I sat together on a sofa talking.

She's warm and I'd like for us to closer - not just my maid but a friend.

I need someone I could trust amongst all the strangers here.

A good friend.

"There will be a general dinner tonight where you'd meet the other wives" she stated fiddling with her skirt.

"What do you mean by 'other wives'? I...I don't understand" I asked feebly.

"You're the kings newest bride, won't you love to meet the others, your highness?"

I gawped at her still confused.

I'm... I'm the king's wife?

Princess Anna was going to be married off to the king?

No...it can't be!

"Didn't you know? You were given to King Lee as a piece offering in order for him not to destroy Muzana kingdom.

"Geez! You're a hero Princess Anna. You sacrificed your chance to find true love for your kingdom so they won't be wiped off. So brave of you!"

No...no...no..no...no!

What was I thinking??

I should have let that cruel man kill me rather than getting married to my worst nightmare.

The same king that I've feared since he came into power.

A psychopath and dangerous king.

"The first wife had a daughter for him. She's only two years old and extremely charming just like the king. The second wife is pregnant though...And rumor has it that she'd be the one to give the king a son...I also pray you'd give him a son as well" She said sarcastically and I could only stare dumbfounded.

I began to hyperventilate...

I'll give myself to him whenever he wants me?

Married...I'm f××king married.

But I'm just nineteen...

How can I do this when I'm not mentally prepared?

Soon, I'd be pregnant and become fat and have large stomach...

For a man I don't even know.

A very dangerous, strange psychotic man???

Fear engulfed me and I slowly passed out.