A Catholic Author: June 2019

+JMJ+

In honor of the new "Aladdin" movie I'm reposting my Aladdin retelling. Not the previous edition that I posted but the edited version. The one that will appear in the book that I'm publishing.

Diary of a Thief Prince

Day One of my future plans, Being the Tenth Day of the Blossom Time

Greetings all, but most importantly myself.

Well anyway, last year Zeno gave me a small gold bound blank book. He gave my triplets the same thing. Waylan used his immediately, but I tossed mine aside. But now has arisen the perfect moment to use this little bit of nothing. In exactly thirty days my brother Waylan is to be married to the love of his life. A rebel from Kildimere. Not there is anything wrong with his choice, but zowie. But I think I might be confusing everyone, including myself. So I better get to the beginning.

Beatrice is my oldest unmarried sister. Being already in her twenty-first year, she is quite dismal about it. But on a side note, who would want to marry her? Anyway, she was seated on a bench with my triplet, Deborah. Beatrice was whining as usual.

“And a common girl like Cassandra.” she said spitefully, “Wormed her way into the royal family, then gets to be married before me! Twice!”

“What a pity.” Deborah mocked. I was going through my precious gem collection. You see, I am an expert ~~treasure hunter~~. Thief! Pardon that last bit. Waylan thought he was being funny. But back to the story.

“Deborah, everyone knows that you will have even more trouble finding a husband then me!” Beatrice shrieked, “Why I am quite beautiful, but you are small and ugly. There is no gloss to your hair. Your face is sunburnt. You run wild with the boys. You dress yourself sloppily. You in the common tongue are quite common. You will never find yourself a husband!” Deborah stood up, her face flaming. Oh boy, I was sure Beatrice would be struck flat. Deborah has the quickest punch in all the Glittering Island. She is also lightening quick with both spear and dagger.

“Beatrice!” Deborah gasped through gritted teeth, “I can find a husband faster then you can blink. In fact I shall be married the same day as Waylan. A double wedding!”

“You forget, that you need a bridegroom.” Beatrice laughed shrilly. I was staring at them in dismay. This did not look good.

“I have one.” Deborah laughed, “The first unmarried man that comes through that door!” she pointed at the small gate in the wall that led out into the street. I stared opened mouthed, while the guard at the door stared in dismay.

“You would not!” Beatrice gasped.

Someone pounded on the gate. The hair on my head stood up on end. Deborah stood up and approached the gate. Beatrice began to sniffle.

“Open the gate!” Deborah ordered.

“Uh- highness your father will not like it.” the guard gasped.

“Idiot!” Deborah snorted and opened the gate herself. My heart sank to my shoes. It was a man. He was probably at least five years older then Deborah. His black hair was in need of a good combing. His face was scared and his clothes were dusty and drab.

“Deborah!” Beatrice shrieked.

“Hello sir, welcome to the Glittering Palace.” Deborah said as she cocked her head. She did not curtsy. The man took a step back, then bowed.

“Thank you my lady.” he said calmly, “I have a message for Prince Waylan.”

“Waylan?” I asked as I stood up. The man looked dismayed.

“He is here, right?” he asked.

“Of course he is.” Deborah interrupted, “He is to be married in one month's time. What about you?”

“What about me?” the man asked.

“Are you married, or to be married?” my sister asked. Beatrice began to cry. To my surprise the man laughed.

“Ha, who will take someone like me?” he laughed, “I, a demoted gate guard, with a face so ugly the pigs turn.”

“Well, I don't think it's so very ugly as all that.” Deborah said, “My sister Anne married someone with scars and he is quite charming. But I would marry you, provided you agree to get married in one month.” The man sat down flat on the ground. The guard fled into the palace yelling.

“Deborah, you don't even know his name!” Beatrice shrieked.

“Kalin?” someone yelled, then my older brother Xander came out of the palace. He was married to Princess Anastasia of Hazelmorn and lived there most of the time. At the moment he was visiting.

“Your highness, a message from the king.” the man at the gate said as he scrambled to his feet.

“Oh good, you already know Xander and Waylan. Perfect.” Deborah said, she turned to Xander, “We are getting married.” this time it was Xander who sat down flat.

After that there was a hullabaloo in the palace. Zeno told Deborah she was being stubborn and would likely regret this flyaway choice. Yaron said she would regret it before the vows were exchanged. Xander bragged about how Kalin had helped him when he was wooing Anastasia. This did not help matters. Waylan practically threw a fit. He was still mad at Kalin over some hunting trip. The younger children were ignored so their opinions did not matter. Madra was concerned about Deborah's future happiness. Father was furious.

“Absolutely never! Over my dead body!” he shouted. This made Kalin mad. I doubt he would have gone through with everything until father started shouting and insulting him.

“Sir, he said angrily, I may not be a prince, but I have noble blood in my veins and a family name that stood before you ever set foot on the Glittering Island! I will marry your daughter, and it will be with your blessing!”

Now I get to the main point of the story. My triplets were both getting married. Since they were doing it together, I needed a fabulous present for both of them and one more important thing. A wife. Deborah had made this a thing that we would all do together. This meant it had to be a triple wedding. But where was I to get a wife. The idea of finding a wife and falling in love in only thirty days was even more daunting then finding the perfect gift. Only thirty days? There was no way I was going to propose to any of the maidens in the palace. I disliked them all. Zeno, Anne, Yaron, Xander and Waylan were not acquainted with anyone worthy of mentioning.

“I know an enchantress who you might like.” Xander said with a snicker.

“I know an old lady called Granny Hag.” Waylan said straight faced, “She is Hannah's grandmother, but you still might like her.” They certainly did not take me seriously.

“Just you wait!” I snapped, “In thirty days time, I will be waiting at the alter with both you and Kalin!” I stormed off. But could I really live up to my words.

Day Two of my future plans, Being the Eleventh Day of the Blossom Time

Greetings all, but most importantly myself,

I am back, did you miss me? I slept ill last night, tossing and turning and thinking. Sadly I was no closer to coming up with a solution in the morning, then I was the previous day. But by mid afternoon something happened that changed my luck. My mother's brother, and his wife arrived at the palace. Not even Zeno could remember Master Won. He had left the Third World when father was busy conquering the Glittering Island. Father detested him so much that he left the room upon seeing him.

“Won.” Madra cried as she rushed to his side and embraced him, “We feared that you were dead, when you never returned.”

“Well Jezana, I hardly miss this country.” Won sniffed and polished a strange piece of twisted metal with a handkerchief. To my amusement, he then held it up to his eye and looked through it. Madra stepped away from him.

“What is that?” She asked suspiciously, “It looks like the very evil eye itself.”

“Oh you people are so superstitious.” Won sneered, “You should see the jewel that is Royaume.” Then father came back into the room. He was seething with rage.

“Royaume is no jewel.” he snarled, “In fact Royaume is the very stinking slum of existence! If you do not believe me you should see my two stupid fat sisters!”

“Maldirk.” Madra cried in great distress.

While the grownups argued Won's wife sidled around the palace poking stuff and cooing. What a strange creature. She was dressed oddly too. But I did not pay much attention to her. I had more important things to do.

“Uncle Won.” I cried as I approached him, “I am in great need of finding the perfect gift for my triplets' double wedding. Would Royaume have anything I could help myself too?”

“You are not going there!” father shouted.

“Not Royaume, but I know just the thing in Kildimere.” Won said and rubbed his hands together, “Shall we talk privately?”

A little later we were seated in a private garden. Won leaned forward and tapped his fingers together. I leaned back and tried not to make a face.

“So I hear that you need not only the perfect wedding gift but a wife as well.” Won said with a smile, “As they say in Royaume, when you need something you get it.” I frowned.

“I would think people would say that anywhere.” I said dryly.

“So you say, so you say.” Won laughed, “Now in Kildimere there is the Irakian Diamond. The most beautiful blue white sparkling gem in all the seven worlds. It can be yours to give to who you will in exchange for a little help.”

“What kind of help?” I asked suspiciously.

“In getting a lamp for me.” was the surprising answer.

“Take that one.” I said pointing to a lamp that hung from the wall.

“No, no.” Won cried, “This is a gold and silver lamp of strange make. It is the only one of it's kind.”

“What do you need it for?” I asked. Won cracked his knuckles hard.

“Revenge!” he said, “Once I was dancing instructor and sword-master to six ungrateful brats! They humiliated me! Especially the one I shall not mention the name of.” He cracked his knuckles again and again, until I winced.

Won stood up and paced in circles. I began to wonder if he was slightly cracked in the mind. But this diamond did sound appealing.

“So what is the catch?” I asked, “If I were to try and get you this lamp?”

“None.” Won said quickly as he turned back to me, “But I am unable to get back into the cave. Genies and such, you know.”

“No I do not know it.” I said, “But if you get me the diamond and a wife I will do whatever you want. How soon can we leave?”

“Now that is the spirit.” Won laughed, “We leave at first light. Pack simple garments. It would be better if no one knew what we were about.”

“Fair enough.” I said, “First light it is.”

Day Three of my Future Plans, Being the Twelfth Day of the Blossom Time

After two hours of unstoppable sickness, my mind cleared, the sun came out and I felt much better. At least I was not like Waylan. He got really sick whenever he set foot on a ship. So sick that he had to go to bed once he reached shore. We were sailing on the Prince Slayer, not a very pleasant sounding ship, but at least it was taking us where we wanted to go. Or it would. It was a two and a half days journey through the current to the Grimwarian Provence in Kildimere. There was not much else to do on the ship, except take off my boots, roll up my sleeves, and try climbing every square inch of the ship. Won sat in a cushioned chair in the bow and sipped a drink out of a golden goblet. But he also looked at me in utter disgust. He wife, Mistress Blanche, remained in her cabin. She was tall with dark eyes and long black hair. She had this superior look about her as if she thought she was better then everyone else. Won seemed to think so too. I could hardly wait to be rid of them.

Day Four of my Future Plans, Being the Thirteenth Day of the Blossom Time

Another long day on a ship. I perfected my ability to scramble up and down the mast. The captain showed me how to guide the ship. The only other thing of note was that we got to go through rapids. It was so much fun, although I felt a little queasy afterward. It was also nice to see Won bending over the rail. That would teach him to be pompous.

Day Five of my Future Plans, Being the Fourteenth Day of the Blossom Time

Finally shore. Two tall towers marked the dock. Sandstorm Lodge was the gateway to the Grimwarian Provence. My sister-in-law Giselle came from there. I had never been there myself, but I had visited other parts of Kildimere. I never found it as glorious as people did say. While the shore officials were examining the ship and speaking with the captain, Won, Blanche and I slipped overboard and waded ashore, by passing all officials. Now I can really be considered a criminal. As far as I know officials do not like to be avoided, especially when they are trying to count or make us pay.

Wet up to my chest, I scurried over the rocks and found myself in the burning hot sand. I am from a hot dry place, but the burning wind and blowing sand drove even me insane. I did not spare any pity for my two companions who had stupidly worn black, served them right. Once we came out of the rocks we saw the desert spread out below us. The sparkling crystal towers of the Sultan Palace shone out like gems on the horizon. At the edge of the desert among the very dunes was a large village of tumbledown houses and shouting people.

“Wait here!” Won said, “Blanche and I have to get the necessary provisions. And of course the map to the location of the treasure.” the two of them trudged off. I laughed at them. Did they really think I was going to stay put? Of course they did, they had worn black garments of heavy make into the hottest desert in all of the Third World. Served them right.

I did a running leap and slid down the sandy hill towards the village. The sand scorched my sunburnt bare feet, but I paid little heed to the pain. I was looking for food and a joyous time. The streets of Bim, the village, were filthy and crowded. Ragged children ran in and out of the alleyways screaming and stealing right and left. Colorful stalls were set up along the streets and everything from rugs to rotting food was being sold.

“By my slippers. Made by Dijns themselves!” someone hollered.

“Rugs from the mystic world.”

“Gems from the courts of the kings.”

“Animals from the Dark Jungles!”

“Slaves from all Seven Worlds!”

I took a deep breath. This was the kind of place I could enjoy. The rancid smell of old food, unwashed bodies and animals hit me. I gagged, grinned and trudged through the streets taking everything in. Suddenly, a small white furry creature landed on my head.

“Ouch!” I yelled, and fell on my face right into an oozing pile of rubbish. I sat up wiping the goop out of my eyes and found a furry white, blue faced monkey staring back at me. I waved him away. He scurried out of reach, then came back. I looked around. No one appeared to be looking for a lost monkey. I stood up and held out my hand. “Want to come with me?” I invited kindly. The monkey chattered excitedly and leaped onto my shoulder. “Hey calm down!” I cried.

“I see you have taken up with Pluto.” a strange voice hissed. I whirled. An old man wrapped in rags and wearing a turban was seated in the shadows under a crumbling roof. A basket full of snakes rested in front of his crossed legs. In his hands he held a long flute like tube.

“Is he your monkey?” I asked.

“No.” the old man said, “Pluto belongs to no one. He is the beast of the immortals, they say. Comes from outside the world.”

“You don't say?” I gasped as I leaned closer.

Our conversation was interrupted by loud yells and the tramp of heavy feet. I whirled. A girl in a ragged brown dress and a hood was standing beside bread stall. In one hand she held a measly little loaf of bread. The stall tender had her by the hood and was shouting at her.

“Guards!” he yelled, “Thief!”

“No, no!” the girl sobbed, “It's all a mistake!”

“No mistake! You touched my bread when you have no money!” the tender snarled. I darted forward, Pluto still on my shoulders. We reached the stall at the same time as the guards. A dozen of heavily armed huge bald men in leather.

“Arrest this girl!” the tender snarled, “I caught her trying to steal my wares.” one of the guards grabbed the girl roughly by the wrist. She cried out. I decided to interfere.

“Oh thank you, thank you.” I cried as I pushed my way through the guards, “Where did you find her?” I flung my arms awkwardly around the startled girl.

“You know this scum?” the tender demanded angrily.

“She is my sister.” I lied, “She is not, you know-” I twirled my fingers around my ear.

“Ah.” the guards said.

“Well, put her under lock and key or I shall summon the officials to restrain her.” the tender said crossly.

“Of course.” I murmured with false humility and began to pull the girl away.

Suddenly Pluto tugged at my hair then leaped off my shoulder into a dark alleyway. I darted after him pulling the girl. The monkey led us to a dead end, then leaped up on a pile of rubbish chattering. The girl pulled away from me and I let go of her.

“I thank thee.” she said in a soft voice, “For aiding me in my great distress.” I frowned. She spoke like a noblewoman.

“Who are you?” I asked.

“Do you not know?” she laughed agreeably, but when I shook my head she quickly added, “You may call me Melowon.”

“And you may call me Aladdin.” I said. Melowon gasped.

“Like the cave of Aladdin?” she asked, “They say who can find it will have great power.”

“Like what?” I asked eagerly. The girl tossed back her long dark hair, then pulled up her hood.

“Who can say.” she whispered, “But I must be gone lest I be found.”

“Huh?” I gaped. The girl turned and vanished back up the alleyway.

“What do you make of that?” I asked Pluto. The only answer was a series of chattering. I sighed, “Well anyway, she is hardly the girl that will marry me in only twenty-five days.” Pluto shook his head. I laughed, “You can not really understand me silly. But anyway, lets get back to the others or we will miss our chance. Care to join me?” Pluto cocked his head, then leaped onto my shoulder. “Right, so stupid of me to ask.” I grunted, and made my way back through the dimly lit streets.

Day Six of My Future Plans, Being the Fifteenth Day of the Blossom Time

Won had provided us with a withered dumb man for a guide and four camels. One for each of us and one for our equipment. The guide rode a donkey. We followed him into the burning hot desert. The sun scorched our faces. I wound a white cloth around my face and hands to keep them cooler. Both Won and Blanche turned red before they realized the sense in what I was doing. But once the sun vanished beyond the point of the horizon a cold chill spread over the land. The sand went from burning hot to freezing cold.

The guide finally halted his donkey. He then leaped nimbly off the beast and started unpacking some fagots from his sack. I slid off my camel ungracefully. I had ridden the wretched beasts before, but I hated the very ground they walked on. Not only did they stink, but they were spiteful and unpleasant beasts. Mine tried to bite me. I quickly evaded it.

While Blanche moaned and rubbed creams on her face, Won pulled me aside into the shade of the tent. Then he reached into his bag and pulled out a small glittering object.

“Tomorrow we shall reach the treasure cave.” he said, “Neither Blanche nor I can enter, but hopefully you will be able too. But you will require this small object.” He grasped my wrist with his left hand and dropped the object into the palm of my hand with his right. A thin silver band with a blue uneven gem lay in my hand. It was ice cold to the touch. I leaned down for a better look. The only light came from the moon above and made it hard to see. I fancied that I saw shapes swirling deep in the gem.

“A ring?” I asked.

“The charmer claimed that this is a ring of help.” Won said dramatically.

“Alright.” I said and slid it onto the middle finger of my right hand. It slid on loosely. I decided to put it on my thumb. But when I tried to pull it back off the band shrank before my eyes and grew to tight to budge. I glanced quickly at Won. But he was already walking away. I would have to be careful with this new toy. It was magic alright.

Day Seven of my Future Plans, Being the Sixteenth Day of the Blossom Time

We were up at sunrise for another long day in the hump. By nightfall all I could smell or taste was camel hair. Not a pleasant experience either. We did not stop, except for a few short pauses for refreshments, until the moon was well overhead.

“Guide, we should break camp!” I shouted, as I pulled my camel skin cloak closer around my shivering shoulders. The guide pointed ahead. I squinted into the moon washed darkness and stared. I could have sworn that we were approaching a gigantic bird's head.

By the time we reached the bird's head it turned out to be a rock carved in the shape of a bird skull. It leered up out moon washed sand like an evil phantom.

“What in the name of all the Holy Ones is that?” I gasped. The Guide turned his donkey around and whipped it fiercely. They were already gone from sight by the time I could think of anything to say.

“We are well rid of him.” Won said coldly. Pluto stuck his head out from my saddle back and chattered softly.

“If you have nothing to say Verek, do not say it.” Won snapped.

“Are you sure he is a prince?” Blanche asked as she cast me a withering look, “He is so uncouth.” I frowned then winked at Pluto. I had not told them about him.

“Out of the saddle everyone!” Won barked, “The moon will only be full for tonight so we must work quickly. I slid off his camel and hurried forward to the closed beak of the skull. He then stretched out his hands above his head.

“What is he doing?” I asked Blanche.

“Revenge!” she said coldly and slid off forced her camel to sit so she could dismount. I followed her example and we approached Won rather cautiously from behind.

“Open Sesame!” Won shouted and clapped his hands together over his head. I raised my eyebrows, then let out a yell. There was a loud screeching sound and the stone beak began to open. In my defense it is not everyday that ones sees the gigantic skull of a monster bird open in the desert under a full moon. A rush of warm air and smoke came out of the beak. Red vapors came out of the nostrils and the eye sockets began to glow. It was the most disgusting thrilling sight I had ever seen.

“And enter Verek!” Won cried, as he turned suddenly to me, “Time is running short and the moon is already waning.”

“Haha. NO!” I said, “Not now, nor ever!” Won's face darkened and he grabbed my arm and clenched it in his.

“No is it?” he hissed.

“Um- yes.” I said hesitantly.

“If the answer is no your bones will be added to those that have already been bleached in the sun in this foul desert.” Won spat, “I need that lamp you need a treasure, well none of these things will be accomplished unless you enter the cave of Aladdin.” I glanced sharply at him. So this was the cave Malowana had asked about. Perhaps I should have chosen a different name.

Suddenly Pluto exploded out of my saddlebag and darted over our heads and into the cave. I twisted free of Won's grip and darted after the nimble creature.

“Come back!” I shouted, “We cannot go in there!”

“No do not come back.” Won said, “Keep going.” As soon as I passed under the curved beak I stopped. A gentle warm wind was blowing out of the throat and into my face, chasing the chill of the desert away. A red glow was coming from deep in the pit of the bird. A narrow flight of steps led downwards.

“Verek!” Won shouted from behind me, “Touch nothing except the lamp! Not until we have the lamp out of the cave can we take anything else.” I started slowly down the steps, one hand on the wall. I did not look back. There was exactly one hundred steps. They were about an inch tall and two feet wide. Whoever had carved the staircase was really annoying. Pluto was waiting for me on the last step. He was chattering excitedly and pointing. My jaw dropped and I stared through bulging eyes. A vast cavern was spread out in front of us. Huge rubies were set atop torches in the wall. The red light was coming from them. In the center of the room was a rearing blue dragon carved out of sapphire. The heat was coming from it's open jaws. A lit furnace was in the belly of the dragon. The floor was made up of treasure of all shapes and sizes. There was a literal carpet of gold.

I took a few steps into the chamber. The coins clanked with each step. I whistled shrilly. This was quite an interesting turn of events. I could bring the sapphire dragon furnace back to Waylan and Deborah. It was to amazing to turn down. But what of the lamp. I scanned the room then realized it was right in front of me. A small unadorned silver lamp with golden legs rested in the dragon's front paws.

“I will be having that.” I said and darted forward over the slippery treasure. Pluto leaped onto my shoulders. I stumbled and fell to my knees. The lamp was right in front of my face. I reached up and grasped it. It was old and slightly dented. There was nothing remarkable about it. “What is your secret?” I whispered. My hand reached for the unpolished lid.

“Verek?” Won's muffled voice shouted from faraway, “Have you got it yet? Are you well? Did you get killed?” I stood up and thrust the lamp into my shirt.

“Come on Pluto.” I said, “Let-” All the rubies suddenly went black. There was a poof and fire exploded from the dragon's mouth. “Eek!” I shrieked in a very undignified voice. I snatched Pluto up in my arms and ran blindly towards the stairs. My back was singed. Once I glanced over my shoulders. Melted gold and fire was running river like out of the dragon's mouth and flowing towards me. If I did not escape quickly I would meet a terrible end.

As I ran up the stairs the ground rumbled. Two of the steps in front of me cracked and fell down reveling huge cracks. I leaped over the chasms and continued up. I was almost to the top when I rock fell from the ceiling and smashed off about twenty steps. I was trapped. I could see the dim light of the moon shining from the opening, but we were trapped. Pluto clutched at my neck and howled like a wolf.

“Won!” I shouted, “Come quick. I am stuck!” My uncle and Aunt appeared at the top of the steps and stared down.

“Toss the lamp up and I will throw you a rope.” Won said. I frowned suspiciously.

“I will give you the map after you get me out of here!” I said.

“Give me the lamp now!” Won screamed.

“Do as you are told, you impertinent monkey!” Blanche sniffed, “You have no right to-”

“Hang everything and get me out!” I shouted as a more steps cracked off behind me.

“No lamp, no rope!” Won said.

“Get me out!” I yelled.

“Come!” Won told Blanche and escorted his wife out.

“Come back!” I screamed as I clutched at the shuddering wall, “I will die in here!”

“Close Sesame!” Won said. There was horrible screeching sound and the stone beak clacked shut leaving me alone in the darkness with a hysterical monkey.

“You traitor!” I yelled even as the steps gave away under me and I dropped into the darkness.

Day Eight of my future Plans, Being the Seventeenth Day of the Blossom Time

I awoke to find someone poking me in the face. Or rather a monkey. Pluto was moaning at my side. I felt like I had just fallen from a great height. Probably because I had. When I sat up I was not very pleased to find myself back in the treasure chamber but on an island in the middle of a pool of steaming lava. The lava cast an eerie glow over the treasure and Pluto. I coughed and rubbed my sweaty hands together. I had forgotten about the ring and the stone sliced through the palm of my left hand like butter. The scream of pain died on my lips almost immediately. A blue smoke shot out of the ring and up into the air.

“UGH!” I yelled and tried to take the horrid thing off, but it was stuck. The smoke took shape and formed the upper half of a dark smokey blue man, who appeared to be emerging from more blue smoke. He wore an embroidered red sleeveless jacket and a white turban was wound about his head. A long blue goatee hung from his chin. He crossed two massive blue arms and glared down at the quivering me. I thought I had either died, or I was about too.

“Master you have summoned me!” the monster boomed, “I the genie of the ring am here to grant your first three wishes!” Wishes were always good.

“Get us out of here!” I screamed.

“Uh-uh.” the genie said with a shake of his goatee, “You must say that you wish to escape here, but do try and come up with a destination. There is so much gray area in just getting you out of here. For example would you like me to drop you into the camp of my last master. The one they call Won?”

“No way!” I said and glanced at Pluto.

“EEEEK!” Pluto shrieked.

“I figure that means duh.” the genie said. I figured the same thing.

“I have my wish ready.” I said carefully as I turned back to the genie. He cocked his head.

“Is that so little master?” he asked. I nodded uncomfortably.

“Genie!” I shouted, “I wish that Pluto and I were both back in the little village by the Divide. The one where I found Pluto!” I crossed my arms and grinned. The genie snapped his fingers then vanished. I blinked. We had not moved at all. Then a faded purple, white, red and black carpet with gold tassels, dropped out of nowhere and hovered inches above the lava. “HA! I knew you were a fake!” I yelled ignoring the carpet. Pluto leaped onto the carpet, which immediately shot off into the air. I grabbed at one of the tassels just in time. “HELP!” I screamed as we shot upwards towards the ceiling. We were certainly going to die now.

The carpet spiraled up among the rocks then shot through the nostril of the skull and into the sky. It was midday, which meant I had been unconscious for many hours. But I did not have time to think of details like that. I was swinging between heaven and earth by a carpet.

“Pluto.” I gasped, “Get me up there!” The monkey peered over the side.

“Eek, eek!” he shrieked and grasped at my wrists. Kicking and flailing, while being aided by a monkey I managed to get aboard the magic carpet. It bounced frightfully and almost dumped me. I then proceeded to bury my face in my hands and condemn all those who thought adventures were wonderful. All I wanted to do was die.

Day Nine of my Future Plans, Being the Eighteenth Day of the Blossom Time

Last night, the carpet dumped me into a trash pile in the village. I spent the night there in the most wretched conditions to sore and unhappy to escape. Pluto had more life left in him and climbed up a broken pillar. Early this morning I awoke to Somoza dumping sewage on me. Spluttering and coughing I rolled out of my glorious accommodations and stood up smelling like a pig. Pluto, looking almost as filthy as me, leaped onto my shoulders.

“Morning monkey.” I said dryly. Both our stomachs growled in unison. I groaned. Pluto leaped from my shoulders onto the head of a man carrying a basket of freshly baked bread. The basket happened to be balanced on his head.

“What is this?” the man yelled. Pluto leaped onto a rooftop taking two loaves with him. I grinned.

“Stop thief!” the man yelled dropping the rest of his bread. I was delighted to see that it was the man who tried to have Malwona arrested. I darted forward, kicked him in the back snatched up a pile of bread and ran. I could hear the baker yelling from the ground but did not bother looking back. I darted down a side alley and leaped up onto the roof of a shack, then jumped to the roof of a house. I could see Pluto making for the tallest tower in the village. Probably a watch tower. I took off after the monkey. Breakfast would be delicious since it was free.

We breakfasted on the soft loaves of freshly made warm bread on the pinnacle of the watch tower. I swung my bare feet over the edge and grinned. Life could hardly get any better then when one is on an adventure with everyone chasing you. I sighed and ran my fingers through my black curly hair. It was a delightful day. I still had the lamp too. I would study it later. Surely there must be some wonderful secret about it if Won wanted it badly enough to kill me.

Suddenly a horn blast all but shattered my eardrums. I clutched at the point of the tower and nearly fell off. A man in a long flowing red sleeveless cloak was standing on a box on the steps of the grandest house in the village. Two masked guards in turbans baring huge scimitars were on either side of him. A small boy in pantaloons and a short sleeveless coat was holding a ram's horn.

“Attention lowly scum!” the man in red bellowed. A crowd began to gather about him. “The Sultan of the Grimwarian Provence, may his reign never grow short, has an announcer for all the people!”

“This should be good.” I told Pluto.

“Eek, eek.” Pluto chattered excitedly.

“Princess Jasmine is of age to marry. Any suitable prince may gain her hand in marriage if he can but win her love. This includes lesser princes and pauper princes. You simply need a title.”

“Did you hear that?” I cried as I clutched at Pluto's dirty fur, “My chance to get a wife after all.” Pluto grasped at my ragged shirt, cocked his head and chattered. “You are right.” I grumbled, “I can hardly expect to compete looking like a buffoon.”

Day Ten of my Future Plans, Being the Nineteenth Day of the Blossom Time

This morning I woke up with a yell. The moon was still shining and the streets were deserted, but I had an idea. I could not believe that I had not thought about it previously.

“Pluto?” I hissed, “Come quick!”

“Eek!” the monkey hissed from above and he leaped down onto my shoulder. I held up my right hand.

“The genie!” I cried excitedly.

“Uh-uh! Eek! Eek! Oh oh!” Pluto shrieked and shook his head wildly.

“Coward!” I said and rubbed the ring.

Poof! Smoke billowed out of the ring and the genie took form. He grinned down at me, looking nothing like a man that had just been awakened from his beauty sleep.

“You wish is my command!” the genie boomed.

“Excellent!” I said, “Make me look like a prince so that I may court the Princess Jasmine! I must have an entourage too!”

“No, no!” the genie cried with a frown and shake of his head, “My powers lie with the summoning of items to fulfill wishes. I could bring you garments, but I cannot bring you an entourage and animals needed!”

“You stink!” I told him crossly.

“Summon the genie of the lamp.” the genie cried, “He is much more powerful then I!” Immediately he vanished with a poof of blue glitter.

“Genie of the lamp?” I murmured. I put my hand into my ragged shirt and brought out the lamp. I glanced at Pluto. The monkey shook his head. I scowled and rubbed the lamp with my sleeve. The silver immediately turned to gold. I stared. Then a thin filmy blue smoke hissed out of the lamp's spout and into the air.

“Eek!” Pluto shrieked and buried his face in his hands. A black and blue genie took shape. He towered far above the rooftops of the little village. I gulped. This genie dwarfed the other genie by many feet.

“Who has dared disturb my slumbers!” the genie boomed, “Am I not made to suffer enough by living in a lamp to be summoned anew by each master?”

“That would be him?” Pluto said and pointed at me with a trembling finger.

“What?” I shrieked and dropped the lamp. Immediately the smoke and genie vanished, and the lamp turned silver in the dim light. I stared at the monkey. Had he really spoken. Pluto shrugged, picked up the lamp and handed it to me. I held it up to the light. I had to be dreaming. There was no way I had not imagined everything that had happened.

Suddenly, the lid exploded off the lamp and the genie exploded out in a blast of blue fire. I cringed. The genie crossed his arms and glared down at me.

“You?” he boomed, “How dare you disturb me twice?”

“Pardon me.” I said nervously, “But don't you have to grant my wishes?”

“Only three!” the genie snarled, “And you better save the last one to free me from this accursed lamp or I will grind you into powder.”

“You know,” I said regaining my courage in my anger, “The genie of the ring is much pleasanter then you.”

“The genie of the ring is young and likes to suck up to his masters!” the lamp genie snapped, “I have learned that humans are fickle and thrive better under threat!” I raised my eyebrows.

“Well anyway, about that first wish.” I said.

“What about it?” the genie snarled, “It better not be one of those wishes where you want to be a prince and gain a vast treasure.”

I squirmed uncomfortably. The genie seemed to be reading my mind. I probably deserved his disdain. But I was not asking for a treasure.

“I wish you to dress me as a wealthy prince, give me a magnificent entourage, with many priceless gives carried by fine slaves. The finest elephants and camels in all the seven worlds. Then place me before the gates of the Sultan's City.”

“Ew!” the Genie said with curled lips, “You are selfish!”

“Whatever.” I snapped, “Just grant the stupid wish!”

“Poof, whatever!” the genie said and snapped his fingers. Nothing happened.

“Poor what?” I asked. He glared at me and vanished. “Now wait one second?” I yelled. Then I found myself shooting through the air. When I came down to the ground again, I hit a stack of pillows and cushions.

When I opened one eye to survey my surroundings, I was in a tent made of rich velvets and silks. Brightly colored carpets littered the floors. A little table of sweet smelling incense was burning to my left. I was dressed in fine yellow silks. The stiffest pointed silk shoes were on my feet.

“I feel stupid!” I said to no one in particular. Pluto landed on my lap knocking the wind out of me.

“Wish granted fool!” the genie snarled as he popped out of the lamp. He had shrunk several feet and fit easily inside the tent.

“You are puny.” I gasped.

“Do not mock me!” the genie snarled and vanished again. I glanced at Pluto, he shrugged.

Day Eleven of my Future Plans, Being the Twentieth Day of the Blossom Time

I rode into the Sultan's city in a little golden house astride an elephant. Twenty armed men were riding on white horses behind and in front of me. Camels laden with rich gifts of silk and jewels came after the camels followed by richly clad slaves. Armed men carrying banners led the procession followed by colorfully dressed men and women waving cooling feathers. Pluto sat by my side dressed in a little feathered and jeweled turban. I held a feathered golden scepter in my hands and looked smug. The lamp was under my pillows.

We burst into the city in style. Everyone was stopping and staring. I waved and looked superior. Rumors were spreading quickly. We rode up to the doors of crystal palace. The Sultan himself came out on the steps in his finest garments. I dismounted by a long golden ladder and walked through my bowing entourage. The Sultan nearly bowed. His loathsome son Jasper was at his side. No I did not like Jasper. He struck me at Anne's wedding. For that alone he was my lasting enemy. He struck me for no reason at all.

“Welcome, my lord, to the Crystal City!” the Sultan said as his courtiers gaped around him.

“Why father.” Jasper grumbled, “It is only Verek of the Glittering Island.”

“Who is obviously very rich.” the Sultan sniffed.

“I have come to court your daughter.” I said imperiously. I was enjoying myself.

“Ha.” Jasper snorted, “Good luck with that.” then he slunk off. The rotten jerk.

“Yes, yes!” the Sultan cried and he escorted me into the palace.

Once in the palace I showered the Sultan with my rich gifts and many words of praise. I even despised myself I was so stuck up. Why was I sucking up to him of all people? This was not how I wanted to be viewed. But I rather enjoyed acting the part. I had the perfect knowledge of how to act. Most of the courtiers of my father's court were such parasites. But to be fair, the Sultan was just as flattering as I was.

“My dear Prince.” the Sultan told me, “My little flower will be proud and honored to be the wife of so noble a man.” I caught Jasper staring at me. Since I had acted completely different when we last met almost a year ago, I was not surprised at his confusion. I ignored him.

“When do I get to gaze upon the rare beauty of your richest pearl?” I asked. I saw one of my slaves clutch at his own neck and make a gagging face. I frowned, then realized that it was the genie in human form. When the Sultan turned to see what I was staring at, the genie vanished. The Sultan shrugged. I faked a smile.

Suddenly a golden white flying lion came down the marble staircase and approached us. I stiffened. Not only had I never seen a Golden White before, but the only time I had ever encountered a lion was when I went hunting with Waylan and Deborah. I nearly got mulled to death before Waylan killed the wretched beast. I never went hunting again. I preferred my quarry to be declawed.

“Oh noble prince of the Glittering Island.” Jasper said with a smirk, “My beauteous sister approaches. I stood up, nearly tripping on the wide tip of my sleeves.

Princess Jasmine came down the staircase in beautiful royal splendor. My jaw dropped. Her black shining hair was tied back in a braided swirl around the back of her head. Two long thin braids came down her front to her waist. She wore little jeweled blue silk slippers on her tiny feet. Blue silk leggings under and open tunic. Her tunic was buttoned across her front and fell in folds down her sides from the waist down. The long trailing open sleeves of her tunic swept the ground. Under that she wore a dark blue silk shirt. Around her neck was a double ring of diamonds. On her forehead was little triple lined golden chain with a white emerald set in the center. On her head was a golden spiked crown bonnet set with pearls and diamonds. But it was not her clothes or her beauty which made me stare. Jasmine was Malwona from the market.

Jasmine turned her dark eyes on me. Then her coral lips flattened and her eyebrows drew together sharply. A red fire parrot flew down the stairs behind her and landed on her shoulder.

“Jasmine my little precious flower.” the Sultan cried, “Come meet Prince Verek of the Glittering Island.” Jasmine curtsied according to the custom of Kildimere. I bowed elegantly, but could not take my eyes off her. She glared at me.

“Jasmine, father wants you to marry him.” Jasper said as he jerked his thumb rudely at me. I frowned, but still did not take my eyes off Jasmine. The princess turned to father with a gasp.

“My darling.” the Sultan said, “Prince Verek is rich-”

“Is that all?” Jasmine interrupted coldly, “I can tell at a glance.”

“Most beautiful angel.” I gasped attempting to voice my feelings, “I am honored to be-”

“He is a flatter!” Jasmine gasped, “Father I will not marry a man who wants to buy me with false words!” she turned and darted nimbly up the steps.

“Don't go.” I gasped frantically. But my words were lost in the roar of the Golden White as it darted after it's mistress. My heart went with them. I do not believe in love at first sight and this was not love at first sight. I had already met her and had no feelings then. Or had I? But what was I to do if Jasmine refused to marry me? Maybe I had overdone things a bit.

“She will come around, dear Prince.” the Sultan said, as he grasped at my arm, “She is really a sweet girl. But I think she may have been surprised.”

“She will?” I asked brightening, “For I never could marry another now that I have gazed upon your splendid jewel!” this time my words were not flattery, they were the truth.

“Jasmine will do as I say.” the Sultan said with a big smile. My heart sank. I did not want to force Jasmine to marry me. I wanted her to consent of her own free will.

Day Twelve of my Future Plans, Being the Twenty-First Day of the Blossom Time

All the rest of yesterday Jasmine avoided me. She remained out of sight and could not be found. Jasper smirked at me. I decided I hated him as much as Waylan did. He really was such a jerk. He probably had thought it great fun to abandon Waylan and his friends to the crocodiles. Why I bet he did it on purpose. There is simply no consolation for a heart in love when it is scorned. Jasper repeating, “I told you so.” over and over again was no consolation.

I was staring out my balcony window on my second night of the palace, when who should appear, but the Genie of the lamp. He was about man size.

“Ah, but the prince mopes.” he sneered, “You like all men are a great big fool!”

“Leave me alone!” I groaned and buried my face in my pillow.

“Stupid, get out your dumb carpet and fly over to your love and talk to her!” the Genie roared causing the floor to shake. I looked up.

“Go see Jasmine?” I gasped.

“That is what I said fool!” the Genie snorted, “Would you like me to repeat it?”

“No thank you!” I cried and leaped to my feet.

“Stupid!” the Genie snorted, “Humans have mush for brains!” he vanished in a soft shower of glitter.

I looked down at my floor. The magic carpet was spread out on the floor between me and the velvet curtains that made up the door to my chamber. I was alone since the constant whooshing of the slaves' fans had irritated me. I leaped to my feet and darted over to the carpet. I did not bother putting on my boots. I preferred bare feet anyway. Besides, I was still dressed like a fine prince.

“Magic carpet, take me to Jasmine!” I cried softly. The carpet fluttered into the air. I flung out my hands to stop myself from tumbling over as the cloth rippled beneath my feet. I manged to stay upright for a second before the carpet shot out the window. I tumbled face downwards. That was probably a good thing as I would have been raked off in the window if I had staid standing.

As the carpet flew out into the starry moonless sky a furry creature leaped onto my back. I let out a yell before I realized it was Pluto.

“So there you are, you little rascal.” I said as I sat up.

“Eek, eek!” Pluto shrieked and pointed up. We were flying towards the tallest tower on the palace. A balcony was ringed around the topmost point. I could just make out the shadowy shape of three figures. An animal, a human and a bird.

“Why did it have to be the Golden White?” I muttered. I would be much more comfortable attempting to talk to Jasmine without a flying lion glowering at me. Pluto let out another screech and bounded away.

I was beginning to second guess my plan to talk to Jasmine, but it was to late. The carpet whooshed up to the balcony and hovered just out of sight. I found myself face to face with the Princess. She let out a scream. The Golden White reared up on the low rail of the balcony and growled in my face. I leaned backwards to avoid being mulled alive.

“How dare you climb up here?” Jasmine gasped, “Get out of here immediately!”

“Not without speaking with you.” I said grimly.

“Why should I speak with you?” Jasmine asked, “My father has tried many times to marry me off to the worst fools in all of the Third World! They are always rich princes! Well, I have had enough! I swore never to marry any man unless he can obtain my love!” she crossed her arms and turned her back on me. My heart lifted. Then I was not without hope.

“And may I not try to win your love, princess?” I asked. She whirled and glared at me.

“You?” she snapped, “How could you win my love? I have very little respect for you since I first laid eyes on you in the palace! Go! I do not wish to say more! I know how to judge a man! You are a fool!” she glared at me.

“As you wish princess.” I said after a pause and I turned away, “I will leave you now!” the carpet dropped about a foot.

“No!” Jasmine shrieked, “You are going to-” she stopped. I turned around and looked up at her.

“What?” I asked hopefully. Perhaps she was not as cold as she was trying to appear.

“What are you standing on, Prince?” she demanded as she looked over the edge. When she saw the carpet, she gasped.

“It is magic.” I said with a grin, “Care to come for a ride?”

“On a flying carpet?” she breathed, “I thought those were only fairy tales.”

“All the world is a fairy tale.” I said with a laugh. I held out my hand, “But not everyone gets to fly.” She raised one eyebrow.

“Prince, you would be surprised.” she said, but she did take my hand. For the second time in my life I held the hand of princess Jasmine. It was even better then the first time.

Jasmine stepped onto the carpet. Her feet were bare like mine. I grinned. She gasped slightly and tightened her grip on my hand, when the carpet sank under her weight.

“Can it really fly?” she whispered.

“Magic carpet, take us over the city!” I said. The carpet shot into the air. The two of us fell onto our faces with yells. We sat up laughing.

“We are flying!” she cried.

“Not every silver tongued suitor can give you this.” I said.

“I have Simba.” she said sternly, “I can fly when I wish.” I glanced back over my shoulder. The Golden White was still staring on the balcony, but the parrot was flying after us.

“Is Simba the Golden White?” I asked.

“He is my dearest friend, besides Ali.” Jasmine said, she stared at me, “But most people just call them flying lions. How did you know their true name?” I did not reply. It would have been somewhat awkward to say that it was because I had gone lion hunting with my triplets and tried to kill one and ended up getting mulled by a common lion.

“Oh look!” I cried, “We can see the white harbor lights of Sandstorm Lodge from here.” I pointed out across the dark desert to a sparkling light on the horizon.

“So you can.” Jasmine said, she put one hand on my shoulder and slowly stood up.

“Be careful!” I cried, “It is nigh unto impossible to balance-” Jasmine flung out her arms. The rushing wind blew her dark hair back.

“There is nothing more glorious then flying through the starlit sky!” she cried and burst into a song.

“In the Far Night Sky

In the Darkness

In the shining Light of the Stars

Far above the rooftops

Far away from all the world

I am flying

I am singing

I am free

The Wind is rushing through me

The World is gliding by

The stars are wheeling overhead

I am Flying

I am singing

I am free”

It was the most glorious night of my life. But all to soon a faint light appeared on the horizon and I was forced to turn the carpet back. I set Jasmine back on the balcony besides the glowering Golden White. Jasmine kissed it.

“See dear Simba,” she whispered, “I have come back safe.” Oh how I envied that creature. Then the princess turned back to me. “Thank you Prince Verek.” she said, “You have been far kinder to me, then I to you.” she curtsied, “Good night and thank you.” she then went into the tower. I flopped back on the carpet and closed my eyes. The carpet drifted off, but I was oblivious to anything except the memory of the most wonderful time of my life. I did not come out of my daydream again until Pluto leaped on me forcing me to return to the real world.

Day Thirteen of my Future Plans, Being the Twenty-Second day of the Blossom Time

Jasmine was then a lot friendlier to me and even spoke to me during the feast the Sultan threw in my honor. Jasper glowered and the Sultan beamed. I heard slaves and servants whispering. Apparently the princess had turned every single eligible suitor down flat. Her father had despaired of ever marrying her off. But although Jasmine was being friendlier to me I soon found other tensions. Pluto, who never let the princess see him, he showed himself to the Parrot and the Golden White. Although Simba and Ali were just animals they certainly acted as human as Pluto. I caught them in the halls, on the stairs, in the gardens, everywhere together. They were always in the middle of an argument. At least it always sounded like an argument. I got the idea that Simba and Ali did not approve of me and Pluto did not approve of Jasmine. It was really annoying, but then it was none of their business.

“Pluto!” I snapped as I collared the monkey after catching him in the very act of boxing Ali's head. It would have been amusing, except I was trying to court the girl who had said that Ali was one of her very best friends. What she would say if she knew my monkey was slapping her friend, I did not know.

“I know that monkey!” the hair stood up on the back of my neck. I whirled. I had not seen Jasmine come up behind me. She was staring at Pluto as if he were a ghost.

“What monkey?” I gasped. Pluto leaped out the window and vanished from sight. Jasmine darted to the window and looked out.

“I saw a white monkey, it must be the same one!” she stopped, “Then you must be-” I took off down through the palace and did not stop running until I reached my chamber. Jasmine must not find out that I was not much more then a common thief. Stealing bread and lamps and such. I did not want her to know I ran through a dusty market in rags, either. But how long could I hide from Jasmine? It would be impossible to court her if I dared not show my face to her? Somehow I doubted that she would forget to soon either.

Day Fourteen of my Future Plans, Being the Twenty-Third Day of the Blossom Time

“You got me into a lot of trouble by bickering with Ali and Simba.” I told Pluto in a glum voice this morning. The little monkey cocked it's head, then hugged my leg.

“Eek.” he squeaked. I scowled.

“Are you jealous?” I asked. A grin tugged at the corner of my mouth. Pluto did seem very attached to me.

Suddenly I heard familiar voices talking loudly outside of my chamber. I looked at Pluto and my heart sank. I would recognize the voice of Won anywhere. I crept to the curtain and peered out. The Sultan's close companion, Paliak, was talking with none other then my treacherous uncle.

“But Master Won.” Paliak protested.

“No!” Won snapped raising his hands, “It matters not the time or the hour, as they say in my world, but who bringeth the news.”

“Now, that is just plain stupid!” Paliak growled, “No one disturbs the Sultan before noon!”

“His wrath will be great when he discovers that you made me, his oldest and dearest friend, wait!” Won bellowed.

“I was told, no exceptions!” Paliak said dryly, “That includes you!” the two men moved off sill speaking in raised voices.

I slipped out of my chamber and darted silently down the corridor after them. By the time I caught up to Paliak, Won was gone. The Sultan's companion had his hands on his hips and was glaring after Won's retreating back.

“Paliak?” I asked softly, “Who was that?” The man whirled glowering.

“That scum of the universe would style himself the Sultan's dearest and closest friend.” he spat, “Why he is not worthy to tread in these hollowed halls. Him and all his kin!” I squirmed inwardly. What would Paliak say if he knew just how close of kin I was with that monster? I wondered where Blanche was. I guessed the two of them were up to some evil scheme. Maybe they were on the trail of the lamp again. I would have to stay out of sight.

Day Fifteen of my Future Plans, Being the Twenty-Fourth Day of the Blossom Time

Life at the palace took an interesting twist. I was courting a girl that I dared not show my face to for fear of what she would ask. I had to hide from the Sultan because Won stuck to him like a bur. Of course it would only be a matter of time before he discovered who I was. As soon as someone said Prince Verek of the Glittering Island he would know just who exactly the visiting prince was. That is if he did not know already.

Today, I happened to be passing the Sultan's private chamber and I heard Won's voice. So I paused outside the door and listened.

“You know that Jasper is simply incapable of caring for so great a Provence as the Grimwarian Provence.” Won was saying, “I have everything worked out. My sister and I will joint rule with him.”

“Won I told you hundreds of times, when Jasmine marries, her husband will be a triple ruler with my children!” the Sultan growled.

“What if I were to marry the princess myself?” Won suggested. My hair stood up on end. What was that blackhearted monster suggesting? So he was pretending Aunt Blanche was his sister so as to fool the Sultan. I clenched my fists.

I was about to burst into the chamber and give Won his comeuppance. He strong blow to the head, one that preferably knocked him cold.

“I should tell you that Jasmine is practically engaged.” the Sultan said. I froze. I had not realized that Jasmine was on very friendly terms with anyone.

“Engaged? Your sour little brat?” Won gasped. I would have cheerfully murderer him for that alone.

“Excuse me?” the Sultan said coldly, “I do not pretend to understand your foreign speech, but my Jasmine is soon to be engaged to visiting rich foreign prince.” My jaw dropped.

“So that is why that showoff prince is here.” Won hissed, “I do not think much about him!” My head whirled. Could the Sultan already be seeing me as his future son-in-law? But what were Jasmine's thoughts upon the matter?

“You have been here two days and had not thought to inquire of the prince his name?” the Sultan sniffed, “I do not think much about that!”

“I had yet to see your Prince!” Won said icily, “I believe he was avoiding me. Now I know why! He is afraid of a the competition! But we shall leave these matters up to the princess, shall we?”

“Yes, we shall!” the Sultan snapped, “But I will speak favorably of Prince.”

“We shall see about that!” Won said. I heard his heavy footsteps approaching the door. I slipped behind a pillar and watched him storm away. The unfaithful fool! Surely Blanche could not approve of his plans. I wondered if he planned to kill Jasmine. Well, not if I had something to say about it.

Day Sixteen of my Future Plans, Being the Twenty-Fifth Day of the Blossom Time

The first streaks of dawn had just appeared on the horizon when I was rudely awakened. Heavy hands grasped my by the throat. I tried to scream, but someone clamped a stinking sweaty hand around my mouth. The thugs were bigger then I was and there were ten of them. They ripped down the balcony curtains and bound me to a heavy chair.

“Our orders are to drown him.” one of the thugs grunted. My eyes widened and I struggled, but in vain. They certainly knew how to tie knots.

“Well, I ain't lugging 'im all the way to the shore.” another thug growled.

“I got somethin' better.” a third thug said. He held up a his hand. He was wearing a genie ring similar to my own.

“Get on with it!” the first thug said, “I want my pay!” the third genie rubbed the ring. A smaller apparition then my own ring genie appeared.

“What is your third wish, o master!” the genie rumbled with a bow, “My freedom as you promised?”

“Hang your freedom!” the thug growled, “Take this chair and it's occupant and throw into the waters of the Divide!” I shook my head wildly. Then I was falling from a great height. I hit the water with a resounding splash and sank like a stone. Trapped!

The water was greenish brown. I passed strange fish and tangled weeds. My lungs ached. I struggled wildly. But the lack of air was making me week. With one last effort I strained my ring against my ropes. There was a flash and the waters parted. The Genie of the Ring appeared in front of me. He glanced around. Silently I wished for him to save me. He seized the back of my chair and tossed it. I exploded from the water. The gag worked halfway out of my mouth. I was able to spit out water and gag. I soon saw that the chair was sitting on the carpet. But the cloth was becoming sodden.

“Come on carpet!” I gasped, “Take me to shore.”

The carpet slowly slid through the water, sinking with ever second. By the time it reached the rocks, I was up to my neck. The carpet struck bottom and I was stuck, still bound to the chair. But at least my mouth was free. I then proceeded to shout for help. It was not long before a couple of boys came climbing over the rocks.

“Help!” I shouted. They tumbled and slid down to the edge of the water.

“Blimey!” one gasped.

“Climb out.” the other one suggested.

“Well, I would if I could.” I said patiently, “But I happened to be tied to a chair.” The boys kindly pulled me out and untied me. They wanted to take me back to Sandstorm Lodge, but I explained that I had to get back to my lodgings quick, or something bad would happen.

Once the boys were gone, I rescued the carpet and scrambled over the rocks in the direction of the little town. My plan was to spend the rest of the day drying out then get the genie to take me back to the Sultan's Palace the following morning. I needed the rest badly. One could hardly dash into a Sultan's palace and accuse a nobleman of murder when they were half dead. Besides the carpet was so sodden it could only lift an inch off the ground.

Day Seventeen of my Future Plans, Being the Twenty-Sixth Day of the Blossom Time

I rubbed the ring grandly. I was about to return to the palace. The Genie of the Ring appeared in all his splendor.

“Well, what is your command?” he boomed.

“Take me back to the palace of the Sultan.” I said with a yawn.

“You have but one wish and you need to use that to free me from this accursed ring!” the genie roared. I jumped.

“Dang!” I said.

“Free me!” the Genie shouted.

“Not yet, go away.” I muttered. The Genie vanished. I crossly set out from the village across the desert.

Day Eighteen of my Future Plans, Being the Twenty-Seventh Day of the Blossom Time

With nothing but stolen bread and apples in my pockets, and two water skins on my shoulders, I crossed the desert on foot. Well actually I am still crossing it. Climbing through the maze of rocks and trudging through the burning sand. Up and down dunes. Always towards the Crystal City which seems to get no closer. But if I keep up this pace, I shall reach the city tomorrow. Beware Won, soon you will feel my revenge.

Day Nineteen of my Future Plans, Being the Twenty-Eight Day of the Blossom Time

Why can nothing go my way? The guards at the gate took one look at me in my wretched sunburnt ragged condition and turned me away.

“No beggars in the city of Jewels!” one roared and pricked me with his spear. I turned away fuming in a rage. But I was not daunted. I circled the wall until I found a small gate. I smashed the lock and broke in. A single half drunk guard tried to apprehend me. I smashed his helm with a rock. Then I scrambled up the wall and leaped to the rooftops. That was a sure way of crossing the city without being stopped. I ran along the sun baked flat roofs, leaped over startled children playing, women washing laundry, and men taking snoozes. I got tangled up in lines of freshly washed linen, but I kept going, heedless of the cries.

I was approaching the palace and the houses were getting finer. The roofs were also getting further apart. If I was careful, I could leap onto a garden wall, and run across that until I reached another roof. Unfortunately, the palace was surrounded by huge wall and there was a about thirty feet between it and any of the other buildings. I would have to walk in thorough the gate. Or maybe fly. The carpet was much drier. It was rather hard to get it dried out when it was rolled up and tied to my back.

I was still standing on a garden wall staring at the palace, when a little ball of white fur leaped into my arms.

“Pluto.” I cried joyfully.

“Verek!” he shrieked. At least that's what the noise he made sort of sounded like.

“Yes, I have come back!” I said with a long sigh, “My dear uncle will regret his behavior mightily.” I clenched my free hand, “If he so much as touches Jasmine, he will more then regret it.” Pluto looked back at the palace and sighed.

Day Twenty of my Future Plans, Being the Twenty-Ninth Day of the Blossom Time

This morning the carpet was only slightly damp. I had spread it flat all night. Now I sat down cross legged on it and silently commanded it to fly. Pluto sat in my lap. The carpet fluttered and slowly rose into the air.

“To the palace!” I cried. The carpet flew slowly upwards and over the rooftops towards the tower of Crystal. “I did it, Pluto!” I gasped, “I made it back!”

The carpet flew over the palace wall and up towards Jasmine's balcony. I shiver ran down my back. Would she be pleased to see me back, or would she be annoyed? Pluto tugged at my sleeve and squealed.

“Oh no!” I gasped, “Carpet, fly to my chamber!” I needed to change my clothes quickly. I looked like a dirty beggar in my current condition. The Carpet did a loop and fluttered downwards. It landed with a bump on my balcony. I stood up. I was reaching for the curtain to enter my chamber when I heard voices. Two people were talking inside my chamber. Jasmine and the Sultan.

“Father, I would never ever marry that disgusting man!” Jasmine cried, “I would rather marry a fop! Any of those foolish princes you presented to me in past years!”

“But darling,” the Sultan protested, “Master Won is your very last choice!” I clenched my hands angrily. I needed to warn them that Won was actually a traitor, but more importantly already married.

“Father.” Jasmine said grimly, “I would stay a maiden forever! You may lock me up in a tower until the end of my days! I tell you, I do not want to get married!”

“I was foolish to let you tell me no, when you were but thirteen!” the Sultan lamented, “I am a fool! I should have realized that you would only get more stubborn!”

“I still would have said no!” Jasmine said stubbornly.

“Please, my little darling.” the Sultan wheedled.

“Marry Jasper off!” Jasmine said, “I have no desire.”

“Look, if I were to bring the Prince back, would you marry him?” the Sultan asked abruptly. I held my breath.

“No!” Jasmine snapped. My shoulders slumped.

“But-” the Sultan began.

“I could not merry Prince Verek either!” Jasmine cried.

“Did you say his name is Verek?” Won's voice demanded. I froze again. So Won was in the chamber too. He had finally learned something.

“Prince Verek of the Glittering Island.” the Sultan moaned, “Could have been my son!”

“Magic Carpet, fly to the roof.” I commanded in a whisper as I sat down again. There was no sense in going into the chamber now. I had to be careful or Won would try killing me again. He had already tried to kill me twice. He was going to be more through about it now. I shuddered. I would have to plan my next move carefully.

Day Twenty-One of my Future Plans, Being the Thirtieth Day of the Blossom Time

I wandered through the streets with Pluto wondering what to do. Could I dare risk attempting to fly back to the Glittering Island on the carpet? Would it fail over the desert? Would it fail over the Crocodile Swamps? Would it fail over the Divide? No, I did not want to risk it. Should I wish myself home with the genie? He wanted the last wish for himself. If only I had the lamp. But it was still hidden in my chamber at the palace. Could I dare sneak in and steal it? I rubbed the ring.

“Have you decided to free me?” the Genie asked. I shook my head.

“Soon, but not yet.” I said quickly, “I need advice.” I explained the situation.

“Get the Genie of the Lamp to assist you.” the Genie sneered, “I am but a lowly Genie of a Ring.”

“Could you bring me the lamp?” I asked.

“If you wish for it.” the Genie hissed, “But once I have fulfilled your last wish you are no longer my master and I will easily kill you.” I grimaced. I certainly did not like the sound of that.

“Go away.” I told him. I decided to steal the lamp. I wished I had let Pluto see where I had hidden it. Then he could have stolen it easily without any bother to me. Why had I not calculated all this into my plans along time ago? There was nothing left to do but do it myself. I would wait until dark though.

Day Twenty-Two of my Future Plans, Being the First Day of the Planting Season

Precisely at midnight, Pluto and I flew through the darkness, lit only by the cold white stars and a sickle moon. We were flying towards my chamber balcony. I sighed softly. I would have liked to look at Jasmine one last time. I would never find another so wonderful and beautiful as her. I would never marry now, I was sure. I had failed at everything. I bowed my head. Was life worth living without Jasmine? No, I was sure that it was not.

Pluto let out an unearthly shriek causing all my hair to stand up on end. I looked over my shoulder. I giant winged shape was at the point of crashing into me. I let out a yell, then we collided. I shot through the air plummeting towards the ground yelling all the way. Pluto was clinging to my hair. I am not sure if I was yelling because I was about to die, or because my head hurt.

“Simba quick!” I familiar voice cried, then I landed hard on the back of a flying animal.

“Ouch.” I moaned.

“If you are going to take a night fly, do watch where you are going!” the princess cried as she turned around. I stared. She gasped.

“Prince Verek?” then she frowned.

“M-my lady, how delightful to meet you again.” I gasped through chattering teeth.

“The pleasure is all yours, Prince.” she said coldly. We alighted in the garden. I slid off the growling Golden White's back onto the hard ground.

I stood up rubbing my new bruises and scowling. Pluto chattered softly. Then the carpet slammed into the ground by my side, missing me by inches. I froze.

“Where have you been?” Jasmine cried, “How could you humiliate my father, so? And myself too, for that matter.”

“It is nigh on impossible to swim the Divide with a chair strapped to their body, then cross a desert all in one night.” I said crossly. My recent fright was making me very unpleasant.

“What are you talking about?” Jasmine demanded.

“Your father's dear friend tried to kill me!” I said bitterly, “The two-faced double dealing swine!”

“I knew he was evil!” Jasmine cried. Then she turned towards me. “The monkey.” she cried.

“Oops.” Pluto said.

“Are you Aladdin?” Jasmine demanded suddenly.

“Well, I-” I gasped. This was a rather awkward question. Simba growled and moved closer. “Who is Aladdin?” I asked brightening up, “Is he the one that the mythical cave of jewels is named after?”

“Oh never mind!” Jasmine cried and tapped Simba's side with her toes. The lion flew up into the sky. I groaned. I had made another mess of things. Now I would have to go face to face with the Sultan.

Unfortunately, by the time the Sultan heard my story and called for Won's head, my uncle had vanished. It was downright annoying. But for my Madra's sake, I was glad that he had escaped. He may have been evil, but he was still my uncle.

Day Twenty Three of my Future Plans, Being the Second Day of the Planting Season

The Sultan, Jasper, Jasmine and I were seated around a low table eating a late noon meal when Blanche burst into the room. I sat up scattering my cushions in surprise. She was followed by no other then Won himself and half a dozen breathless guards.

“Ah, you caught him.” the Sultan said.

“Caught us, HA!” Blanche cried, “We caught you!” she pulled out a beat up silver lamp from under her cloak and held it aloft. My heart sank. It happened to be my lamp?

“Won, your sister is mad, I have pity on her.” the Sultan said, “You I have no pity on!”

“Careful.” I cried, and leaped to my feet.

“She is hardly going to brain father with that old piece of junk.” Jasper laughed.

“And she also happens to be my aunt and Won's wife!” I spat. I had left that part of the story out conveniently, but there was no sense in hiding it now.

“Wife?” three horrified voices gasped.

“My dear Verek, how delightful to see you alive again.” Won sneered. He took the lamp from Blanche, “I despaired of your life. My dear sister would have been heartbroken. You do realize that you are her favorite. Well it will be a pity to tell her that you died.” He rubbed the lamp. Jasmine screamed as the Genie of the Lamp burst out of the spout in glory. I sighed.

“What, a new master, again?” the Genie grumbled. He glared down at me, “You certainly botched things!”

“Don't blame me!” I yelled, “You were not very helpful in the first place!”

“How delightful, you sound like old friends.” Won sneered, “Well, Genie, I command you to make all of them suffer.” he gestured at everyone.

“You monster!” I yelled.

“I must do as he says!” the Genie snapped, “Don't blame me!”

“Not you, him!” I snapped.

The Genie pointed at me. I spun backwards through the air and slammed into the balcony on the second floor. I crashed through it and rolled head over heels. I saw stars. When I tried to get up I was flung over the edge, ten feet to the floor below. A little pool of blood dripped off my face onto the floor below. I groaned softly. When I looked up the Sultan and his two children were being forced to grovel in front of Won and Blanche. They strutted in front of my friends laughing. As for the guards they were all hanging upside down on the wall. Won tore tore the Sultan's jeweled turban off and put it on his own head.

“Now I am the Sultan of the Grimwarian Provence.” he said, “I command the lamp!”

“Oh no you don't!” I shouted and leaped to my feet. I stared to run towards him my hands clenched. He would not get away with his evil plans.

“I wish he was abandoned on Desolate Island!” Won said with a yawn and pointed at me.

“You twice cursed son of a pig!” Jasmine screamed, “Leave him alone you monster!” Then I was shooting through the air. I felt Pluto grasp my left. Then we struck hot sand. I groaned and everything went black.

Day Twenty-Four of my Future Plans, Being the Third Day of the Planting Season

I awoke with an aching head. I was terribly thirsty. My tongue felt thick and leathery. My feet were in the warm water of the Divide. Pluto was bathing my head with salt water. I groaned and sat up. Desolate Island was a wretched strip of nothing. Yaron had once been abandoned there too. But I doubted that any Enchantress would appear and offer me a flying chest. That sort of thing only happened once. Although that same Enchantress had offered Xander a flying ship and Waylan a magical map. I groaned.

“Must have water.” my voice sounded strange and hoarse.

My gaze dropped to my red sunburnt hands. The ring sparkled on my finger. Of course, that was the answer. If I did not use my last wish to escape I would die. Surely the Genie would understand. Someone else could have the honor of freeing him. Perhaps I would give him to Waylan or Deborah. I gasped. The wedding was in less then a week and I was trapped on a Desolate Island. My friends were being ill-treated. I could not attend my own triplets' wedding. Oh how could things get any worse? I rubbed the ring.

“You have summoned me to grant me my freedom?” the Genie boomed. I sighed and gestured around me at the sand.

“If I grant you your freedom I will die.” I protested.

“You could command me.” the Genie growled, “But it will not be fair. Every master has chosen to fill their own desires after swearing to free me. But what can I do, but make them pay with their lives?” I sighed.

“How long have you been a slave of the ring?” I asked, “Will one more week make much of a difference?”

“Nine thousand, eight hundred million lives of men!” the Genie rumbled, “Some of my brothers have been even longer!” I straightened up and gasped.

“My troubles are nothing to that.” I said sadly, “Very well, you are free.” There was a poof and a shower of blue glitter. I fell back against that sand and closed my eyes.

“I thank you Prince of the Glittering Island.” the Genie boomed. I jumped and my eyes burst open. The genie was standing in front of me. He was roughly seven feet tall with dark brown skin and a black goatee. The top of his head was shining and bald. He was wearing a blue embroidered vest and black breaches. A blue cape hung down his back.

“Er- hello.” I said standing up.

“My thank you!” the Genie said and snapped his fingers. The magic carpet fluttered down from the air. Then the Genie vanished. I cried.

Day Twenty-Five of my Future Plans, Being the Fourth Day of the Planting Season

The carpet must have been completely dried out for it flew fast and well. Perhaps the Genie repaired it completely. But whatever the real reason was I was heading back to the rescue of Jasmine and her family. The sun had just begun to set when the carpet spiraled around the pinocle of the the Crystal Palace. I leaped off onto Jasmine's balcony and burst into her chamber. It was deserted, except for Ali. The poor parrot was trapped in a gilded cage. I rushed to his side. Surely Jasmine never kept her friend in a cage.

I twisted the door open and Ali fluttered out croaking harshly. He circled the room twice before alighting on a table and gulping some water from a little dish.

“Food and drink I have had none for two days!” he croaked. I raised my eyebrows, “Now quick, downstairs you must rescue my Mistress and her silly father and brother!” I did not need a parrot to tell me that. I darted out the door and down the corridor. There was one twisting spiral staircase that led all the way to the main floor. I leaped onto the rail and shot down it with Pluto clinging to my back. My sliding polished bronze burnt my hands as I flew down.

At the bottom I shot off the rail and crashed into wall. Dazed, I sat up. I was in a kitchen. Cooks in long white tunics were staring at me. Suddenly the door the burst open and Won stormed in. Swiftly, the cooks arranged themselves so they were blocking his view of me.

“What was that noise?” Won growled. He was dressed in the finest silks and looked very pleased with himself. The cooks shrugged and shook their heads. “Mute dimwits!” Won sneered and strode off. The cooks turned back to me, and laid fingers on their lips. Both Pluto and I nodded solemnly. A huge dark skinned cook handed me a long handled knife. I took it eagerly and slipped it into my belt. Pluto snatched up a small chopping knife. A young cook handed me a cleaver.

“Thank you.” I said gratefully, “Your help is appreciated. I bowed. The cooks all bowed back.

Armed with cleaver, butcher knife, and chopping knife, Pluto and I darted down the corridor in search of Jasmine and her family. We came upon them in the anti-room. Blanche was standing erect with one foot on a little cushioned stool. Jasmine knelt at her feet fastening the tiny clasps on Blanche's golden sander. A wave of anger washed over me. How dare they force Jasmine to do such a menial task. Presently Jasper came in dressed in ragged pantaloons and a torn sleeveless jacket. He had a bucket of steaming water and was scrubbing the marble floor. I simply stared in horror. Won was circling the fountain with two huge dogs. The Sultan was following the dogs and scooping up their droppings. I could hardly believe the extent of Won's evil.

I was still seething in rage, when Pluto leaped forward onto my uncle's back. Ciaos filled the room. Won howled in pain as the monkey stabbed him. Jasper leaped to his feet and flung the bucket of filthy water over Blanche. She screamed. Jasper grasped Jasmine and forcefully dragged her out of the way. The Sultan booted Won into the fountain. I would like to say everything was over as quick as that. But no! I darted forward and pulled Jasmine to her feet. She clung to me sobbing hysterically. Jasper cracked his knuckles. Won burst out of the water seething in rage.

“Guards!” he roared. The palace guards burst into the anti-room shouting and waving spears.

“Call them off, Melchior!” I shouted at the Sultan, “They are your men!”

“Not any more!” the Sultan said grimly. He snatched up Blanche's stool, tripping her in the process. But before he could hurl it the dogs leaped on him, dragging him to the ground.

“Make them suffer!” Won snarled as he leaped out of the fountain, dripping wet. I shoved Jasmine behind me and tossed my butcher knife to Jasper.

“Do something with that!” I said. Then I spun the cleaver in my hands. We leaped forward. My cleaver chopped a scimitar in two. The guard stared at the broken blade with an astonished look on his face. I whacked him in the face with the flat of my weapon and he crashed to the floor.

“Genie I command you!” Won thundered. There was a rumble, then the Genie of the lamp appeared in all his blue smokiness filling the room. I sighed.

“You have used all three wishes!” the Genie rumbled. A ray of hope entered my heart. The guards drew back staring at the Genie with fear in their eyes.

“Do as you are told you stinking swine!” Won bellowed, “Or I shall cook you in your lamp! Extinguish your flames in water! And put a gargoyle in the lamp with you!”

“What is your command, Master?” the Genie growled. My heart sank.

“Return that creep and his blasted monkey to Desolate Island and burn his magic carpet!” Won snarled.

“Not again!” I yelled, as the wind began to rush about me.

“Send a hurricane to wipe the island of all living creatures and so give him a slow death!” Won's voice bellowed as the room faded. I sighed. I was right back to square one.

Day Twenty-Six of my Failing Future Plans, Being the Fifth Day of the Planting Season

Morning dawned, hot and grim. I could hardly believe I was right back to where I started. But now the sky was a grim looking. It glared down on Pluto and I. The waves were beginning to swirl and churn. Lightening flashed.

“Pluto, we have to get out of here!” I yelled. Pluto leaped onto my shoulders and clung to my neck screeching. There was a crack. I whirled. A huge palm tree was falling in our direction. I could have sworn that there had been no tree there earlier. Won would not get rid of me so easily. I darted to the side. The tree hit the sand. I gasped as the branches scraped my face and chest. Pluto cried out. Then a huge wave crashed down on us. I darted forward and grasped at the branches. Then there was water everywhere.

The fallen tree burst out of the water with me still clinging to it. I gasped for breath and spat out mouthfuls of water. Pluto was still clinging to my neck. He loosened his grip somewhat, which made it easier to breathe. I looked around for shore, but I could see nothing but empty water. The tree bobbed up and down on the now calm water. I plowed my way through the branches and pulled myself on top of the trunk. As I climbed on, I noticed I still had the cleaver with me. I grinned. How kind of the Genie. I pulled it out of my belt and hacked off a branch. Using the branch as a paddle, I kept the tree moving in the direction I could only hope was Kildimere.

Day Twenty-Seven of my Failing Plans, Being the Sixth Day of the Planting Season

Dying of Thirst! Starving! Aching all over! I could do nothing except crouch in the branches. Sometimes I paddled, and sometimes I just leaned back. What an unpleasant end. Poor Pluto. He was starting to look tasty.

Day Twenty-Eight of my Wretched Plans, Being the Seventh Day of the Planting Season

Still floating! Still Starving! Still wretched! My head feels light. My tongue feels thick and tastes like sandpaper. If only I could drink the Water of the Divide.

Day Twenty-Nine of my Lost Plans, Being the Eighth Day of the Planting Season

Shore! A cried, without shedding tears! I crawled up onto the shore a parched mess. Food could wait! I needed fresh water badly or I would die. Some fishermen dunked me in a horse trough and moistened my lips. It felt delightful. I did not tarry long to thank them. I took one water skin and a crust of bread and hitched a ride with some merchants. I was heading back to the palace. I was so stupid! I should not have been going back there. I would just be killed for sure. My luck certainly was running out.

Day Thirty of my Future Plans, Being the Ninth of the Planting Season

The merchants were in a hurry and traveled through the night. But the sun was already high in the sky when I burst into the palace. I went through the kitchen. The four cooks stared at me as if I were a ghost. I probably looked as bad as one. I ran through the palace in search of Won. I was still armed with my cleaver. I knew what I would use it for. Won would pay for his wickedness. If I could I would have sent him straight back to that other World. Maybe they liked him there.

Won was seated on the Sultan's throne. Poor Melchior was waving a peacock fan over the traitor's head. I believe Won took great pleasure in humiliating the Sultan's family. I stepped into the room. Two guards immediately crossed their spears in front of me. I knocked the spears aside with my cleaver.

“Verek!” Jasmine cried. She was on her hands and knees scrubbing the floor with a stone to make it shine. But her poor hands were bleeding.

“Won!” I yelled, “You have no right to-”

“Genie.” Won said with a yawn, “Please remove this-” Pluto leaped onto Won's face and bit him. My uncle's command turned into a yell. The Genie appeared and laughed at him.

Won flung Pluto to the floor and drew his sword, ready to kill my poor monkey friend. I hurled the cleaver. Won's sword was severed in two. He looked astonished, but now I was weaponless.

“Verek!” Jasper, cried as he appeared at the second level balcony. He threw me a saber. I caught it. Then Jasper somersaulted over the edge and ran at Won.

“Not again!” Won snapped, “Genie restrain him now, or you will-” The genie sighed and put one hand in front of Jasper. The prince continued to run, but his feet kept sliding backwards and he made no headway.

“Leave him alone!” Jasmine screamed, as she started to stand up. Blanche came up behind her and flung her back down.

“It is time your idiot brother was executed!” she snarled, “I am tired of his rescue attempts!” So Jasper had tried to save his father and Jasmine. Good for him!

“Genie punish the girl!” Won said with a sneering grin at me, “And guards apprehend the boy.” I scowled.

“Master be serious!” the Genie said, “How can I hold the prince back if I am punishing the girl?” Since the Genie could easily do this, I grinned. Won turned and stared at the Genie with a startled look on his face. Pluto leaped onto his back and Melchior struck him with the fan.

“Get him!” someone shouted from behind me. The four cooks leading the rest of the servants pounced on the guards. I darted forward. The Genie turned and Jasper slid right through him and crashed into Won.

“Oops.” the Genie smirked. I slammed into Won from the back and we the three of us crashed to the floor. I groaned. Every bit of me hurt like anything.

“Guards!” Won yelled. But the guards were to busy dropping their weapons.

“I would rather be cut to bits by the Genie then raise arms against the Sultan again!” one of them shouted.

“Verek!” Jasmine cried. I got off Won and yanked him to his feet. Jasper scrambled up and tied the man's hands together. He struggled wildly, then gave up as the servants and guards approached him angrily. I left them and approached Jasmine.

“I believe this is yours.” Jasmine said. She snatched at sometime tied to Blanche's waist. My aunt shrieked and slipped. The Princess handed me the lamp. I took it. It was rather amazing that this innocent looking lamp had started all the trouble. I dropped it onto the floor and flung my arms around the princess.

“Verek, you may think you won.” Won shouted, “But at least you will not make the wedding!” I whirled. The wedding would be taking place in only a few hours. I swore wildly.

“What wedding?” Jasmine asked.

“Ha! Revenge is sweet!” Won laughed wildly as he was dragged off. The Sultan and Jasper approached me. I rung my hands in despair.

“I have to get home!” I cried, “My triple wedding! I am supposed to be there!”

“Who is getting married?” Jasper asked, as he rubbed his bruised arms.

“My triplets, Waylan, Deborah and myself.” I said.

“You?” three voices chophouse in surprise.

“Yes at least I was going too.” I sighed wretchedly.

“You do have two wishes left!” the Genie said dryly, as he morphed in front of us. I smacked my head. It was true. I snatched up the lamp.

“Verek,” Jasmine asked softly, “Who are you getting married too?” I looked around. I felt my face heating up. So I had never proposed to her at all. In my defense things were a little busy.

“You, if you will have me.” I muttered. Then Jasmine laughed.

“Now if I get this right, you planned on getting married without even having a bride?” Jasper gaped, “You Glitterarians are weird!” I did not answer because I was to busy with Jasmine. Jasper rolled his eyes. The Genie tapped his fingers impatiently.

“Tick tock, Master Verek!” he said. I reluctantly released Jasmine.

“Genie, I command you to take us all back to my father's palace!” I cried. The Genie cocked his head and smirked.

“Nothing easier!” he said and snapped his fingers. I closed my eyes.

I opened my eyes and found both Deborah and Waylan in their wedding garments staring at me with open mouths.

“Verek?” they gasped.

“Did I make it?” I asked breathlessly.

“The procession starts in five minutes.” Waylan cried, “Did you get a wife?”

“Yes.” I said.

“Then lets go!” Waylan cried, “We only have two minutes to get to the Alter and wait for the girls.”

“Alright.” I said.

“Clothes?” the Sultan gasped. Deborah grabbed Jasmine's arm.

“Thank your lucky stars you made the wedding and hang the clothes!” she said and dragged Jasmine off. I shrugged and ran after Waylan.

And so, somehow, Jasmine and I were married. My plans worked after all. I would like to say I planned every detail. But I did not. To bad if people were shocked about the way Jasmine and I were dressed for the wedding. At least we managed to find something for our feet. But other then that, I doubt the poorest people in all the Third World were such drab wedding garments as us.

As we were settling down for the feast, I brought out the lamp and rubbed it. Of course everyone started yelling and screaming when the Genie appeared. But my group from the Grimwarian Provence just grinned.

“Genie, I release you!” I said, “That is my last wish!” A slow grin spread over the Genie's face. Then he clapped his hands hard. There was a shower of sparks and he grew into a solid man, much like the last genie.

“Three free wishes for the first three to speak, in honor of the occasion!” he cried. I smiled.

“I wish to be married before the year is over!” Beatrice shrieked as she stood up and waved her hands wildly.

“What?” I gaped.

“I wish that I could spin straw into gold.” my little brother Uli said.

“Now that is just stupid!” I protested. I could not believe that the wishes were being used in so stupid a manner. I had nearly died several times and had used the wishes carefully.

“I wish my future husband to be a King!” Beatrice sighed.

“No!” I yelled. Everyone looked at me. I groaned.

“Ignore them.” Jasmine whispered to me, “What do they know about real pain.” I nodded.

And so ends my adventures in search of a future wife. I never ended up getting anything for Deborah and Waylan thought. They did claim that my returning in time for the wedding to be married with them was present enough. Oh well.

Signing off with a Flurish,

Verek of the Glittering Island, Son of Maldirk the First

The End

Pages

Pages

Monday, June 3, 2019

New Book

Saturday, June 1, 2019

Aladdin retelling Diary of a Thief Prince