Chapter 3

"Almost done. There." Emma opened her eyes and stared at the stranger in the glass. She wore a white, floor-length dress and jewelry around her neck. In her hair were pearls and diamonds. Her friend, and maid, squeezed her shoulders. "I'm sure he'd be proud, Em." "Has there been any news back from former Queen Elizabeth?" Emma turned from the glass"No, butter was something from King Benton." Marie pulled an envelope from her pocket. Emma took it and opened it, staring opened mouthed at what she'd read. This couldn't be happening. Not now. Why so soon? "Princess?" "King Benton's sending his son to wed me." Emma said aghast, tossing the letter aside. "This must be some joke! I'm not marrying that selfish, stuck-up, avarice." Marie cocked her head. "You shouldn't believe everything you hear, Em. You met the prince before haven't you?" "But that was years ago!" "Maybe he's changed." Marie smacked her hand. "Stop, you're messing up your hair." Emma started pacing. This was a bad dream, and she'd wake up any second now. She whimpered. The idea of marrying him was preposterous. What could this boy possibly want from her? Not a bride. Heavens above, children. Her stomach churned, threatening to cause her to throw up her breakfast. She whirled toward Marie who was gazing at her with pity. "It's not the end of the world, Em. If you're against the marriage, turn him down when he proposes." Marie sighs. "R-Really?" Marie snapped her fingers. "That's enough drama for one morning. Hurry, Kai is waiting for you." ... When Emma reached her father's bedroom, Kai was already there, holding a bouquet. He wore a white suit, and his hair was brushed to the side. Kai smiled back at her. "ready?" She nodded. Today, they were given time to bid farewell to their father before he was buried. Emma half-hoped he would be up working on a new portrait, but to her dismay, he was still in bed. He looked as though he were sleeping. Kai placed the flowers in a vase and then took a seat. He started rubbing his palms on his pants like she did when she was nervous. "What's bothering you?" "Don't you think it's strange father died a week after supper with King Benton?" Kai's eyes widen. "I hear his sons are coming." Emma nods. "His health was already worsening before that, Kai." "I know. Do I have to be there when you greet the princes?" Kai got to his feet. "I have some studying to do." "Really?" Kai nods. "It's a very interesting topic. I'm learning about the human body! Do you remember what p's skin looked like?" "Of course." "What if he wasn't sick, Em?" Emma blinked. "What are you trying to say, Kai?" Then she gasped. "Kai Alexander! How could you suggest such a thing, why would King Benton do that? He was friends with father for years!" "Goodness, Em! Have you been living under a rock?" Kai exclaimed. "Have you noticed how much his kingdom and influence spread across the galaxy?" Emma opened her mouth to say something but Kai continued. "Why would King Benton do this to father? Power. And he'd be crazy enough to poison him too." "Kai, watch your tongue. Those words could get you killed. "Emma glanced toward the door. "You mustn't say that around our guest." Kai snapped. "You just don't want to hear the truth, do you?" "No! I don't because hearing the truth is worse." Emma shot back. "I understand you want to figure out what happened and why, but I...I can't handle the truth right now." Kai deflates. "I understand. If you need me I'll be up in my private tower." Then he left, closing the door behind him. Emma sank to the floor sobbing. ... Since she had a few hours before the princes arrived, Emma went down to the stables. Her horse neighed softly as she approached. Emma ran her fingers through the horse's mane. "Hello, Butterscotch. Have you been behaving?" Emma pulled out an apple and held it up. "I've brought you a treat." A voice behind her stated her. "What are you-?" Before they could finish their sentence, using her air abilities, Emma sent them flying. She heard a grunt and turned. A boy was struggling to his feet. Emma gasped and hurried over. "Oh goodness! I'm sorry. It's just that you startled me" "Apologies I-" the boy stopped when he saw her face. "P-Princess Emma?" "Just Emma. Who are you?" "I'm Keith Franklin. And I'm a pilot. I also help tend the animals." Keith chuckled nervously. "I had no right to-" Emma held up her hand. 'It's fine. If you're not busy could you alert Marie I"m going out for a ride?" "Of course." Emma thanked him then opened the stable door. She secured the saddle on her back, then stroked her neck. She pulled her bow and arrow down from the wall and strapped it to her back, then secured a dagger to her leg. Once she was suited up she jumped on the horse's back and they raced from the stables. From the palace. Freedom