Diary of an Heroic Prince


+JMJ+

The Diary of an Heroic Prince


Being the 2nd day of the Frosterdays,
I Zeno being sound in mind and body, I do take it upon myself to write an honest account of what is about to take place this year of my life. This day being the 2nd of the Frosterday. I being not a month past my twentieth year, and in spite of my youth, have taken it upon myself several times to care for my six younger brothers and seven younger sisters. The purpose of this diary is to show proof of future actions, which were done out of care for them. Namely sister Cassandra. She being but fostered into the family so as to maintain the boy, girl, boy, girl pattern. Sister Cassandra has been in her sixteenth year since the time of the colored leaves and has become quite a lovely young woman. Her red curls make her more noticed as that is a rare color near the Glittering cities. My father being King of the Islands and quite stern, would not think twice about punishing me if I was guilty of murder. This diary will provide the facts of why I might be guilty of so hideous a crime. My recent enemy, Lord Bluebeard, a captain and counselor of my father's court, has taken to looking with favor upon sister Cassandra. She is but a child yet and needs much counsel and care. Lord Bluebeard can give her neither. Of my recollection, and an acquaintance of him. he has been married twelve times. Before that I know not how many wives he had buried. The saying is that no bride of Bluebeard has lived beyond a month. It would seem that they are cursed mightily. I will not let that be the fate of dear sister Cassandra.  

Being the 7th day of the Frosterdays
I have been watching sister Cassandra with great care these past five days. I have shared my concerns with none but my dearest sister Anne. She is wise in advice and counsel.
“Have a heart brother, Zeno.” she assured me cheerily, “Surely no man of such years as Lord Bluebeard would care to have a child like dear sister Cassandra.” but I could not take heart. When a man has married himself a bride more then twelve times in two years. Then he can hardly be too particular. Besides sister Cassandra holds a great exotic foreign beauty. She would be the only woman in all the nine Glittering cities with Red Hair. Curls are quite rare too. But I also posses them. Blond hair is only a little more common then red hair. My father is a conqueror, he seized lordship of Nile city the foremost of the glittering city. My Madra is a local princess. I hope to be a better king one day then my father on account of his flattering tongue. Sister Cassandra seems to share his favor. I fear the attention of the deceitful lord has flattered her far more then it should. Little brother Tarek does not understand such matters. He has only voiced complaints to Madra about eating in style every night to entertain him. little brother shows no pleasure in silly court procedures. He will be a wise man one day. Brother Xander, who is the closest to sister Cassandra in years suspects something. He shows great anger that sister Anne and I share no confidence in him. brother Yaron and sister Beatrice have no mind for such thoughts. Sister Deborah also seems fare jealous. She pulled sister Cassandra's hair and threw a vase at her. It shattered over the cushions. I am shamed of both sisters. The triplets are violent. But sister Cassandra's temper angers them. I fear there will be much more trouble.

Being the 17th day of Frosterdays
Many things can take place in ten days. I fear that I have not watched sister Cassandra as close as I might have. My business elsewhere is pressing upon me. I must seek more recruits for my father, the King's army. Dearest sister Anne confides that sister Cassandra is far too reckless. I fear she is right. Madra has spoken, but sister Cassandra is far too impetuous. She heeds not the wise words of our Madra. Dear Madra wishes me to speak. She feels sister Cassandra has great respect for me. I think not. When sister Cassandra takes hold of a thought, she will let it go for nothing. My good friend Rupert said she could use a well placed spank. I fear he is right. I must approach sister Cassandra today. I leave for the boarder tomorrow.

“You wish to speak to me, brother Zero?” sister Cassandra asked as she danced to my side. I would not smile at her. This is quite hard as her smile is like a light in the dark.
“Sister Cassandra, why must you encourage Lord Bluebeard's attention?” I asked her sadly. Her smile soured like cold gravy.
“Brother Zeno, Madra told you to speak to me?” she accused angrily. I could feel the heat rush to my face. She was right.
“Sister Cassandra.” I choked, “Madra is wise. Listen to her. Lord Bluebeard has married twelve times in two years alone. Have a care sister, who knows what fate could be in store for you.”
“You would care if I continued seeking his attention?” she asked thoughtfully. I nodded.
“Yes, sister.” I said. Perhaps Madra was right and she did listen to my counsels. Her eyes flashed.
“I would understand now, brother. You are just jealous that I would be married before you, Anne, Yaron, Xander and Beatrice.” she spat and ran off sobbing. Such thoughts had never entered my mind. But I paused to think them over now. Was I jealous? I was the heir to a king. A lord of the Glittering cites. A captain in the army, since my sixteenth year. I was fair and generous to the people. Any number of the court ladies would vie for my attention. I truly could have my pick of any girl. I was just not interested in marriage at the moment. Sister Cassandra was wrong. I was not jealous of her. I was concerned. I cannot pretend to know the minds of Brothers Yaron and Xander and sisters Anne and Beatrice, but I can guess somewhat. Sister Beatrice is jealous to the point of sickness at Sister Cassandra's fortunes. Not of Bluebeard's attention, but that Cassandra might perhaps marry before her. Brothers Xander and Yaron mostly could not care less. Sister Anne is difficult. I cannot tell what is hidden deep in her heart. She keeps her own counsel.

Being the 18th day of Frosterdays
Being a 2nd captain in my father's army, I was required to go to the boarder and take command of my regiment. Brothers Yaron and Xander accompanied me. Brother Yaron is fair and wise. He is a good and steady soldier for being only eighteen years. Brother Xander is but sixteen still. But he has earned the right to call himself a warrior. Father appears to think he shall be a natural warrior in time. I fear that he may be right. But not in the way my father the King thinks. I have every reason to believe that brother Xander will get himself killed, doing the most foolish thing he can think of.

Being the 20th day of Frosterdays
War camp is hard. We are on the boarder over looking the divide. Enemy ships blacken the water. Brother Xander has already expressed great interest in being the sole posse to take on the ships. He would fight this battle alone if I did not have the sense to let brother Yaron advise him. They have been speaking these two hours. Battle master El Tee is still listening patiently. Brother Xander dropped off to sleep after the first two minutes. As long as he remains asleep I can drill my men in proper procedure. Brother Yaron is wise, but to be honest no one ever listens to him. My younger siblings the triplets call him Captain Yawn. I can hardly blame them. I have taken to ignoring such trivial comments. It would never do to discourage truth.

Being the 3rd day of the Bleak Time
The enemy has finally retreated back to their cursed land. We have no ships, so we content ourselves by blasting the warheads after them. Brother Xander kept them firing much longer than was entirely needed. But in the face of Victory I felt that he is entitled to indulge in his happiness. I retreated to the command tent to fill out the paperwork. Paperwork is so boring! I think it would be a most pleasurable idea to hire someone to do the paperwork. But presently my flag bearer, Rupert came into the command tent.
Mail arrived.” He said. He handed me a letter. I recognized the hand of Sister Anne.
Thank you Rupert.” I said and waved him away. Once he was gone I slit the letter open. I have enclosed a copy of the letter.

Dearest brother Zeno,
Greetings to you and our brothers, Yaron and Xander. I trust this letter finds you and them in the kindness of health and that you are unsullied by the War.

I wish that I had kind news for you in these harsh times, but I bring you an immediate concern of our family. Little Tarek, who has not even reached his sixth year has vanished. Our Father, the king, thinks little brother Tarek is a disobedient child. He also declares that he will not recall any of the men to search for him. As the seventh son, I fear our Father, the king, cares not about little brother. I pray you Brothers Zeno, return swiftly to River City. I am much afraid and seek your counsel. I fear little Tarek has run away for good. Our dear Madra has not stopped weeping and little Greda will not cease either.

With all my Tenderest love, your dear sister,
Anne 

You can be certain that I was much beside myself. I would have rushed to my Madra and sister's aide immediately, but I had a commitment to the army. In view of our recent Victory, I have much hope that I will be home before long. But I hesitate to share this havey news with my brothers Yaron and Xander. 

Being the 4th day of Bleak times
Our enemies have much deceived us. I fear a traitor is among us. Dear friends of mine have been lost. Their blood spilled over the sands. The enemy slipped around behind us, now we are trapped on the beach. The enemy surrounds us on every side. I fear we may be ruined. Rupert raised high our standard and charged unarmed at the enemy. His three brothers followed close. They were killed, yet Rupert remained unharmed. Xander mangled the enemy Flagship with a warhead. I shall take note to honor both Xander and Rupert. But first we must defeat these Barbarian Warriors.

Brother Yaron counseled me to hold a Parley. My dear brother has a sound advice. Rupert, El Lee and I took the white flag out. We met with the Enemy Lords and discussed peace. I fear their demands are too steep. They demand the hand of sister Anne for their prince and half the kingdom. I told him our King will never agree to such harsh demands. Now brother Xander is angry. He says that we should have made demands too.
You make it sound like we are the ones surrendering!” He yelled. I made no response. We were the ones surrendering.

Being the 5th day of the Bleak times
Xander has been confined to Barracks. He secretly parlayed With the Enemy and told him that we would destroy them unless they gave into our demands. He demanded all of the enemy Kingdom and the hand of their princess for me. I was not happy with him. What would I do with a princess? I was still pondering this, when I received another letter from Sister Anne.

Dearest Brother Zeno,
Greetings, I trust this letter finds you in good health.
Oh Dear Zeno, you must come soon. Little Greda has run away now. Our father, the King, has called her a selfish impudent child, but does not seem to have much concern. Oh dearest brother, I feel as if only you can save them. I trust no one else to such a task.
In haste your loving sister,
Anne 

I would give much to hasten home and relieve my frantic mother and sister. I supposed little Greda to have more sense than to run away. There was must be a deeper reason. Oh if only I were free to return home.

Being the 12th day of Bleak times
For the last week my poor regiment has had no peace. The enemy oppressed us mightily. Many of my soldiers have been taken prisoner or killed. I have requested aide from the Glittering Cities, but received no reply. I have much reason to fear that my father, the King, will not grant me aide.

Today brother Yaron lost his temper and called our Battle of adviser a tarnal fool. I have been meaning to say that for some time now, but I still rebuked my brother. It does not pay to insult the battle adviser. The adviser was really angry, he told my brother to advise the army himself. Of course I would never say this to the adviser but brother Yaron has more advice of sense than he did. With my brother's well-thought-out plans. We tricked the enemy into our camp. While they were destroying it, we circled around and attacked them from the rear. In the confusion many of them fled into the sea. We took more prisoners and slew the rest. I cannot imagine the enemy will try surrounding us on shore again. I believe this war is really truly over.

Being the 13th day of the Bleak Time
I receive many letters from home Madra and Anne pleaded for help in searching for our little lost Tarek and Greda. Anne also made mention that Captain Bluebeard has grown much more serious towards our sister Cassandra and that our father, the king, encouraged them. Sister Beatrice complained about the lack of eligible men. She wanted me to hurry up and complete the war so the men would return to the Glittering Cities. Sister Cassandra wrote a silly gushing letter about the many qualities of Captain Bluebeard. To heap insult on injury, she offered to find me a pretty bride so I would not be jealous of her. Sisters Beatrice and Cassandra really upset me. Here I was shedding my blood for my people and they write foolish little self centered letters. I have shed my blood too. I have a bad wound on my left leg, just above the knee. It makes it most difficult to walk. I have another wound on my right cheek, where I was grazed with flying shrapnel from a war hammer.

I was still seething from the last two letters, when I opened the letter from the triplets. Waylan, Deborah and Varek are quite naughty. Their letter was an amusing one full of pranks, silliness and general cheerfulness. Nothing shallow. By the time I finished, my temper had cooled and I was smiling. Easter sent me a letter. She is worried about her twin sister Fiona. Fiona is our true sister, but our father, the King, cast her out of the family because he wished to maintain the boy, girl, boy, girl pattern. He could not adopt a boy that could fall in place directly between the twins as he had done with Cassandra. The only time Madra has directly disobeyed her husband, the king, is when she hid Fiona at court instead of sending her away.

The last letter I received was from brother Uli. He confessed a terrible crime. He said that Tarek and he had found a mirror and played with it. The mirror had shattered and piece had struck Tarek in the eye. The little boy had claimed to be unhurt, but he started acting strangely. Only one day after that, he had run away. I was shocked and horrified. What enchantments had laid upon that mirror? The letter did not end there, but went on to explain that he had confided in Greda and she had run away to find Tarek. Poor sweet loyal little Greda. I must find her and Tarek

Being the 14th Day of the Bleak Time
I left the camp under the direction of brother Yaron and the battle master's joint command. I planned on returning as soon as was possible. The return journey was painful. My leg ached. It was starting to swell in the intolerable heat. I heard in the far North it snows at this time of the year. I could use some snow to cool my leg. I made a mental note to visit the doctor.

Being the 16th Day of the Bleak Time
I arrived home and had my wounds treated properly, but my relief was short lived. I had just stepped out of the infirmary, when sister Cassandra approached and started bragging about the attendance of Lord Bluebeard.
He has asked me to honor him by becoming his bride!” she sighed. My temper snapped.
Sister, he is old enough to be thy father!” I cried, “Besides he is not good!” Cassandra burst into loud sobs then ran off screaming. I wish I was back in the war camp. I hope father has the intelligence to realize the Captain should not marry Cassandra. She needs a real man like the soldiers in the army camp. Someone who could smooth out her spoiled nature.

Being the 18th Day of the Bleak Time
Captain Bluebeard has officially asked for Cassandra's hand in marriage. Our father, the king, has said yes and the engagement feast is planned for tomorrow night, where it will be officially announced. My heart is heavy. Sister Anne is worried, because she knows the Captain is selfish and cruel. Beatrice is angry because she is jealous. The triplets could not care less. Easter thinks the captain is too ugly to be romantic. Uli thinks marriage in general is disgusting. I fear this marriage will cause Cassandra to drift away from the family circle forever. Captain Bluebeard already hates me and will not think twice to turn my sister against me. I fear he may have already done as much. Fiona of course has nothing to say as usual.

Being the 19th Day of the Bleak Time
Every bite of food was bitter in my mouth. The only ones who seemed happy about the engagement were father and Bluebeard's friends. The common folk hate us all, so I fear they could care less. I shall return to war camp soon. But I swear if Bluebeard ever harms so much as one hair of my sister's head, I will kill him.

Being the 21st Day of the Bleak Time
I am back in the camp. Things are slow. The enemy sits in their ships and waits. Brother Xander wishes to do battle before they get reinforcements. I think his idea is wise, but brother Yaron counsels us to wait. I have much reason to assume he has a secret plan. I wish he would see fit to confide in me.

Being the 24th Day of the Bleak Time
Today would have been Little Tarek's sixth birthday. Wherever he is, I pray he has a most pleasant day with many happy wishes.

This day was marked in my mind. I led the army into the water. This is the first time occupants of the glittering city entered the water. Brother Yaron had sent for a load of trees. We set them afloat in the dead of night and clung to them while we floated to the ships. The enemy had not expected us, as we had never shown the inclination to go in the water before. We really need to get our own ships. We burnt all the ships but one and executed all the prisoners except ten. These ten we chained aboard the ship. Tomorrow Brothers Yaron, Xander, the rest of the captains and I will sail around the island to the Glittering Cities. That ought to make an impression on my father, the King.

Being the 25th Day of the Bleak Time
I despise sailing. I spent all day kneeling by the rail heaving my insides overboard. To be fair, so did all the others, except Xander. He single handedly kept the prisoners sailing the ship towards River City. We were met by armed men at the wharf. They looked shocked, when we disembarked instead of the enemy. I swear that I shall never set foot on a ship as long as I live and breathe.

Being the 1st Day of the Time of the Melting Snow
It is quite lovely to be home again with the whole family. No mention has been made of dear little Greda or Tarek. I have this odd feeling that people are afraid to talk about them. What really happened? Is brother Uli's story true. Although he admitted writing the story of the mirror to me, he refuses to talk about it. Has something else happened? Am I not to know the truth? Surely even brothers Yaron and Xander, who knew not the particulars said naught. I would think they would at least comment upon the fact that their youngest siblings were missing. I fear brother Xander was not even aware that they were gone. He does pay much attention to small details. Brother Yaron certainly asked discretely, but I have not heard what that reply would be.

More news on Captain Bluebeard. He has taken to giving veiled insults behind his flattery. Only our father, the king, and sister Cassandra like him, so his insults were returned with far less veiling. I fear once he takes my sister's hand a war will start. Brother Xander does not think twice about calling him fat, big and ugly. He is very indiscreet.

Being the 15th Day of the Time of the Melting Snow
The marriage of Captain Bluebeard and my sister Cassandra has begun. Now is the time for the seven night feasts. Sister Beatrice has been sullen and moody. She made little biting remarks about sister Cassandra and her life before our father, the king, adopted her. Sister Anne, brother Yaron and I took care that her remarks would remain unnoticed. It would not do for sister Cassandra to throw a tantrum at her wedding feast.

Being the 16th Day of the Time of the Melting Snow
We feasted again. I had the dubious luck to be seated by the other lords of the other Glittering Cities. I know my father, the king, is not well liked, but I am surprised that he has survived this long with such opposition. People hate him. It is not a pleasant thought to think that once I take my birthright I will be just as hated.

Being the 17th Day of the Time of the Melting Snow
I really am getting so tired of feasting and this is only the third night. I am thinking that perhaps Sister Cassandra is in need of a good spanking. I have this wicked desire to distribute it to her.

Being the 18th Day of the Time of the Melting Snow
My father, the King, is throwing a fit. Brother Varek saw fit to put a live peacock on the table. The bird never hinted that it was breathing until Captain Bluebeard attempted to sever the head. The bird flew up into the air sending food and dishes flying in many directions. Offended guests competed in volume with one another, to see who could display their anger the best. My father, the King, chased Varek throughout the palace with the platter, that the peacock had reposed on. Sister Deborah and Brother Waylan howled with laughter in a very naughty fashion. Brother Xander said it was a nice change. Madra cried and Sister Cassandra threatened to murder the culprit. I made certain I looked quite distressed. But I was secretly quite pleased with the episode.

Being the 19th Day of the Time of the Melting Snow
I had to play Throne Winners with Captain Bluebeard. It is a game of tack, deceit and luck. The winner gets the throne. I like to think of myself as an honest man. My father, the King, was furious that I lost the game. The whispers of the people are that I will never be king now. But I will never let Bluebeard be king either. He would destroy the entire Third World. Not to mention the game taught me that he is terribly deceitful. What the Glittering Cities need is a king who will unite all of the Third World under one banner of peace. Of course the winner of the game Throne Winners does not really get the throne. It is just a game.

Being the 20th Day of the Time of the Melting Snow
It is considered ill-luck to not feast seven nights before a royal wedding, but if I stuff myself to bursting one more night, I am going to be sick. Brother Xander threatened to drown Bluebeard and sister Cassandra in rich pastry soup if it was served to him again. I fear that I shall stand aside and do nothing. I am also beginning to think this diary will be testimony of the deeds leading to sister Cassandra's murder instead Bluebeard's murder. Perhaps she is well suited to Bluebeard after all. Not a day has passed that she has not whined that we are all jealous of her. How are we jealous of her? Not even Sister Beatrice would marry Captain Bluebeard. Perhaps Sister Cassandra has low taste because she is only adopted.

Being the 21st Day of the Time of the Melting Snow
The last night of feasting. I had to drink Bluebeard's toast and offer him land. I have a plot of farm land on the southern shore. As the eldest brother, I had to give it to Bluebeard as part of sister Cassandra's dowry. I am furious. But I did my duty and no one would have realized that I hate Bluebeard's guts with great intensity. My speech was very flowery. But every word was underlined with hatred and fury.

Being the 22nd Day of the Time of the Melting Snow
Sister Cassandra wedded Captain Bluebeard on this 22nd Day of the Time of the Melting Snow. Rupert, Yaron and I accompanied the groom. Sisters Anne and Beatrice accompanied the Bride. I refuse to say anything else on the subject except that Sister Deborah put a mud patty on the bride's cushion. Sister Cassandra did not notice, but the rest of us took great satisfaction in the ugly brown stain. Captain Bluebeard saw it and turned his terrible eyes on me. I ignored him. He knows I hate him. I believe he would take more satisfaction then necessary to squeak my throat.

Being the 23rd Day of the Time of the Melting Snow
Sister Cassandra is gone and tempers are flaring. Sister Deborah sassed one of the advisers and our father, the king, slapped her. Sister Deborah threatened to run away. I was called to smooth things over. But then everyone was arguing except me. Then my father, the king, got angry and started insulting my methods of fighting and leadership. Which had nothing to do with the present conversation. I had been injured in his service. I had never been so furious before. But I will not argue with him.

Being the 24th Day of the Time of the Melting Snow
I am returning to war camp for a little peace and quiet.

Being the 2nd Day of the Rainy Season
Ah war camp where everything is peaceful and quiet. I could live here forever, even with all the fighting. Madra sent me a letter saying sister Anne has gone to stay with sister Cassandra and her husband, the wretched Captain Bluebeard. She asked me to stop and see how they were faring when I was not quite so busy. I have no wish to visit, the Castle of Bluebeard, but I think I will do as Madra wishes and go see how they fare. I do not look forward to this trip in the least.

Being the 3rd Day of the Rainy Season
I received a long epistle, sent by dear Sister Anne. She called Captain Bluebeard's castle, the lodging of evil and cemetery of darkness. The servants apparently look like villainous thugs and the road to the castle is paved in blood stains and death. Captain Bluebeard's palace sound loathsome. I shall leave for the castle tomorrow. I cannot bare the thought of my sisters living in such a pit of horror.

Being the 6th Day of the Rainy Season
I have never been so horrified in my life. The village under Captain Bluebeard's castle is dark and gloomy. Peasants in rags and covered in bloody scars stared at me silently as I rode past. They might not know who I was, but they still glowered. This people had the look of those that would be glad to murder their overlords. I hurried out of the dark village praying that I would never have to return there. Sister Anne wrote the truth. The bricks on the road leading from the village to the castle were covered with brownish red stains. I shuddered. About a kilometer from the castle the ground fell away around the road. Cages hung on stout poles along the cliffs. Cages with skeletons in them. I grimaced. Black crows were pecking at bits of flapping cloth. Wild dogs gnawed on anything fleshy that stuck out from the bars. My stomach twisted painfully. This was gruesomer then war camp.

As I approached the ugly iron gate of the bleak threatening castle, I saw a figure swathed in red blocking my path. It was a woman. She was wearing baggy red silk pantaloons, and many veils. She was not from the Glittering Island. Only the poorest peasant women still wore pantaloons there. The silk cloth obviously did not belong to a poor girl. The woman was alone, standing in the rain. Her eyes stared at me forlornly over her face veil. I dismounted and bowed. Why was a woman alone outside Captain Bluebeard's castle. I wondered if she was a lady in waiting or something of similar nature.
“No one answers my call!” the woman said stiffly as I approached her and the threatening gate. I stared at the smooth iron. No guards, no knockers, no nothing. I drew my scimitar and pounded the hilt against the door.
“Sister Anne?” I shouted, “Sister Cassandra?” I glanced at my companion. She was not looking at me. “What are you doing here?” I asked, as I kept knocking.
“I have not heard from my sister in a year.” she said stiffly, “I came to discover her fate. She is Lord Bluebeard's lady.” I choked. She stared at me.
“Impossible!” I squeaked, “My sister-” the gates swung up and a big sullen dark haired man glared at me. I shuddered.
“What do you want?” he demanded.
“I am Zeno!” I said.
“Who cares?” the man snarled and spit in my face. The girl gasped. I felt my face growing hot with anger. I slapped the man's hand with the flat of my blade.
“Hands down dog!” I cried, seething in anger, “Take me to the captain or I will run you through!” no one spit in my face in front of a woman.
“Oh you are that Zeno.” the man said sullenly as he moved away from me, “Who is the other one?” he jerked a dirty thumb at the girl.
“I am Mistress Giselle of Sandstorm Lodge!” the girl cried, “My business is with-”
“I care not!” the guard shouted, “Be off both of you!” the man knew who I was, yet he was still throwing me out. I tightened my grip on my scimitar and pushed my damp hair out of my face.
“Brother Zeno?” sister Anne's familiar voice cried, “Come inside before you drown!” I gallantly took Mistress Giselle's arm and escorted her triumphantly past the guard. The guard glared at us. He should be expelled from the court.

Sister Anne did not know who Mistress Giselle was, but she tried to make her welcome. The poor lady was looking for her sister Alia, who she claimed was Captain Bluebeard's wife. It was a terrible shock for her to discover that her sister has been long dead and my sister Cassandra is now the wife of Bluebeard. Poor Mistress Giselle. Sister Cassandra was not very welcoming to either of us. Perhaps she is ashamed of the castle and the gruesome road. I know I would have been.

Being the 13th Day of the Rainy Season
It has been a full seven days since I last picked up my pen. Captain Bluebeard is not often at the castle. Sister Cassandra spends her time bossing around the sullen servants. I have the uncomfortable feeling that she does not want me to be at the castle at all. The castle is strange. It is dark and gloomy. Twisting narrow maze like passages filled it. They seem to change all the time. Evil looking statues and suits of armor fill the rooms. One could almost think that they were real and ready to slit once's throat. I think sister Cassandra should spend less time bossing and more time redecorating. My curiosity has been aroused. I have seen every inch of the castle but one room that is kept locked. Sister Anne told me that it is Captain Bluebeard's secret chamber. I wonder what horror he keeps in there.

Being the 18th Day of the Rainy Season
I was seated at dinner with my two sisters, Mistress Giselle and Captain Bluebeard, when a servant brought in two letters. One for Captain Bluebeard and one for me. It was a summons. The enemy had returned. They were ravaging the villages along the divide. I am surprised, my father, the king, who usually cares nothing fro the discomfort of the common folk has ordered us to relieve them.
“We could leave tonight.” I said quickly, “We could reach the camp by early morning.” Captain Bluebeard took a large ring of keys off his belt and handed it to sister Cassandra.
“Dearest.” he said in an oily voice, “I leave the castle in your tender care.”
“Oh my lord, must you go to battle?” Sister Cassandra gushed. I ate some more chicken. I saw no sense in getting choked up about the possibility of getting killed.
“The cruel king has decreed it!” Captain Bluebeard said smartly, as if three of the “cruel” king's children were not sitting with him. I stopped eating and frowned at him. He took a small key out of his pocket.
“This key opens my secret chamber.” he said, “I leave the key with you, but you must swear by the bones of your ancestors that you will not enter.”
“I swear!” sister Cassandra said solemnly.

I wiped my face, tossed aside my napkin and stood up. The others all turned to look at me. I hitched up my belt.
“Well I am off to pack.” I said cheerfully. If I staid I feared that I might strike the wretched Captain.
“Zeno, brother.” Sister Cassandra wailed, “How can you smile? My beloved may die.” I will not regret that! I thought disrespectfully.
“Sister Cassandra.” Sister Anne said reproachfully, “Brother Zeno is going too.”
“But my beloved may die.” Sister Casandra wailed again, “Do you think a brother is more important then my beloved?” Captain Bluebeard flashed his white teeth at me. I was stung. Not just by Cassandra's silly selfishness, but Bluebeard's cruel triumphant smile. Mistress Giselle, who sat at Sister Anne's side frowned at my red haired sister.
“Why should she be worried about you, Lord Zeno?” she said quietly, “She knows you are such a estimable warrior that you could not possible get hurt.” I smiled at her gratefully, but I still felt angry at my sister and brother-in-law.

Being the 23rd Day of the Rainy Season
For the first time in my twenty years I want to leave war camp for good. There was plenty of fighting. We were winning. We even captured a lot of marauders. But Captain Bluebeard usurped my authority, spread discord through the soldiers and forced me to punish Rupert. I never had to punish one of my men before. I may have been young for a leader, but I had earned their obedience and respect. Now Bluebeard's barbed comments, veiled sarcasm and patronizing words were rubbing off onto my men. The men I had fought and bled beside. To make matters worse, it was it was Captain Bluebeard's plans that were helping us win. He was making me out to be incompetent and him a hero. I admit to the whole world that I despise the wretch!

Being the 25th Day of the Rainy Season
We had a meeting with the enemy leaders. Once more they demanded a princess and half the kingdom. Before I could say no, Bluebeard started arranging a marriage between Sister Anne and one of the enemy princes.
“What?” was the only thing that came out of my mouth. Rupert whacked Captain Bluebeard over the head with the standard. Then Brother Xander kicked the captain. A fight broke out between Bluebeard's friends and the rest of my soldiers.
“Never mind.” the enemy leader said, “We do not need to parley. You lot will kill yourselves.” Feeling humiliated, I hastily waded into the fray and wrenched Xander and Captain Bluebeard apart.
“You two are both confined to quarters!” I snarled, “Rupert, El Lee and myself will finish this conversation. The rest of you return to the camp! My brother Yaron has control of everything while I am here.” Captain Bluebeard showed me a hateful look. But he left. Once he was gone. I discussed peace in plain words. I suggested a royal wedding. I agreed to marry the princess of their choice in exchange for three ships. My father, the king, would give them thirty cattle of his choice. Once the plans were concluded in writing, I felt a little pang of regret. It would have been nice to marry someone I actually loved. Not someone I met for the first time at a wedding feast.

Being the 26th Day of the Rainy Season
Captain Bluebeard is gone along with thirty of the men. His special cronies. I will have a bad report for Father. Captain Bluebeard's behavior is treacherous.

Being the 27th Day of the Rainy Season
The enemy have selected the Princess Giselladona to be my bride. Three sturdy ships called the Sea Snake, the Crown Destroyer and the Minotaur have been selected as her gift. We now only wait for my father, the king to send the cattle. I wonder what Princess Griselladona looks like? I have no doubt that I will hate her.

Being the 28th Day of the Rainy Season
Brothers Yaron, Xander and myself have each received letters from sisters Anne and Cassandra, they bid us come in haste as sister Cassandra is in terrible danger. She entered Bluebeard chamber and now fears her life is in danger. Surely Bluebeard would not kill her. Would he? I cannot help remember those terrible cages along the road. I have no doubt he would kill her.

Being the 29th Day of the Rainy Season
The three of us have been galloping through the night. I would have gone on with no rest in spite of my weary bones, but I had to have consideration for my two brothers and the horses. We took two brief rests in the night.

Being the 30th Day of the Rainy Season
Dawn was just beginning to unfold when we galloped up the gruesome road to Bluebeard's castle. Sister Anne stood at the tower and waved frantically to us.
“Sister Cassandra, they are here.” she was yelling. I was off my horse before it had even come to a halt. My two brothers were right behind me. But when I tried to open the gate, we were dismayed to discover that it was locked. I pounded on the gate.
“Bluebeard, you coward, let us in!” I yelled. He deserved to respectful title. Sister Anne disappeared from the wall. Brothers Yaron and Xander hurled themselves against the gate, but it would not budge. I drew my sword. “Bluebeard!” I thundered, “I have the power to arrest you for deserting.” of course this was a threat I never planned on carrying out for the scandal it would cause my sister.

Suddenly the door opened. It was Mistress Giselle. In one hand she clenched a large black iron candlestick. The thuggish gatekeeper was lying in the mud unconscious.
“Quick sir.” Giselle cried, “I believe my sister's murderer is about to kill your sister!” not stopping to ponder the young lady's words, I dashed towards the palace.
“May the Heavens bless you, lady.” Brother Yaron said as he rushed after me. We burst into the palace and found Sister Anne trapped in the arms of one of Bluebeard's thugs. Sister Cassandra knelt on the floor clutching the small chamber key. It had turned red. Bluebeard had her red curls grasped in his hand and a knife at her throat.
“Drop your knife, foul traitor!” I shouted. Sister Cassandra cried out, and a drop of blood appeared on her throat. I froze.
“Well, well Lord Zeno!” Bluebeard hissed, “For all your nosing and prying it was your foolish sister who discovered my secret.” Sister Cassandra cried out again.
“Oh brothers.” sister Anne screamed, “He has got a closet full of-” her captor struck her. Anger washed over me and I tightened my grip on my scimitar.
“You cowardly-” I got no further, I heard several voices screaming at me to look out. Then something stuck me in the head. The last thing I remember was the clatter of my scimitar as it struck the floor.

I awoke to find myself in a place I first mistook for Hell. The floor and walls of the narrow room were splattered with dry blood. Skeleton bodies of dead women hung by their hair or arms from the wall. Axes hung from beams. Bloody knifes littered the floor. I counted twelve dead bodies. Then my senses cleared and I realized that I was very much alive. Mistress Giselle knelt at my side.
“Do not kill him.” she was screaming, “I will be your fourteenth wife if you do not kill him!” I closed my eyes to thin slits and feigned unconsciousness. Then I noticed Bluebeard. He still had sister Cassandra by the hair. He was going to kill my sister and hang her up with the other dead wives. For that is what the dead bodies could only be.
“Oh it is for to late for that, my little Giselle.” Bluebeard sneered, “I asked you once before and you stuck up your nose. Your sister was murdered because you refused me.” Bluebeard laughed uproariously, “Besides I will take great pleasure in killing this man. Is he your lover that you would be willing to marry the man who murdered twelve wives and one of them your own sister for him?”
“he is nothing of the sort!” Giselle spat, “But he is a more honorable man then you!” Bluebeard struck her. I had to brace myself so that I would not to reach for his throat.
“Mercy lord.” sister Cassandra whispered, “I disobeyed you so kill me, but spare my brother.” Bluebeard laughed again.
“But my little wife, you do not seem to realize that you all must die since you know my little secret.”
“You monster!” I heard brother Xander yell from behind me, “You sick monster!”
“Then kill us quickly!” brother Yaron said calmly. I wandered what his plan was.
“Not until Zeno wakes!” Bluebeard spat, “I will kill the three ladies in front of him. That will hurt is pride the most.” I felt sick all over. Bluebeard would no doubt torture them well, because he knew I believed in chivalry.
“Oh brother Zeno, I pray that blow killed you.” Anne whispered softly. She knew me well too.

Slowly I inched my hand towards Giselle. Her eyes widened briefly, then she fixed her eyes on Bluebeard and arranged herself so she was blocking Bluebeard's view of my hand, the same time she kicked one knives in my direction. Bluebeard barely glanced at the clattering blade. Giselle began to sob loudly.
“Oh if only I had said yes. Alia would still be alive.” my hand closed over the knife.
“Zeno has slept long enough, someone wake him up!” Bluebeard growled. I bucket of questionably clean water cascaded over my head. I sat up spluttering and hurled the knife. It shot over sister Cassandra's head and into Bluebeard's heart. He gasped. I leaped to my feet, pushed sister Cassandra aside and hurled myself in to the murderer. We hit the floor, then two knives stabbed Bluebeard. My brothers had taken advantage of the distraction to throw their hidden daggers at our enemy. I sat up rubbing my aching head. Sister Anne had her arms around the fainting Cassandra. Brothers Xander and Yaron were writhing with their captors. I stole Bluebeard's scimitar and approached them.
“The fight is over.” I said coldly. My brothers were released and the guards backed away.

Being the 1st Day of the Blossom Time
Flowers are beginning to bloom on the miserable scraggly black trees. How is it possible for any beauty to appear near so horrible a place. Everything still seems so bleak. Brother Yaron took Bluebeard's servants and friends to the village prison. They will remain there until someone comes to take them away to River City. They have to face heavy charges. Mistress Giselle, brother Xander and I put together makeshift coffins for the remains of Bluebeard's wives. Poor Cassandra sits all pale and broken. The spark has gone out of her and she droops dejectedly. I pity her. Mistress Giselle's sister Alia was Bluebeard's twelfth wife. He had not told her family that the poor woman was dead.

“The monster asked me first.” Giselle admitted, “My dearest Alia would be alive today if I had said yes.”
“How can you regret your decision?” brother Xander protested, “That man would have murdered you!”
“But Alia would be alive.” Giselle whispered, “I am doomed to never find a good man. But what do I care? They are all criminal anyway.”
“Yaron could marry you.” brother Xander suggested, “He is a very good man.” I did not like what he was saying and told him to be quiet. Giselle smiled.
“Yaron is such a boy.” she said with a laugh. I am certain why I felt so relieved.
“Oh good!” brother Xander said, “That means you would not have me either.” he flashed a grin.
“Now that this conversation is ended, lets dig holes-” I got no further.
“Would you marry Zeno?” brother Xander interrupted. I felt my face burning. If only the ground would remove me from their sight. Giselle twisted her veil.
“I believe I could have been happy with your brother.” she said softly and avoiding my gaze. My heart lurched wildly, could it be possible? “But I cannot be.” Giselle continued. I remained perfectly still. “Your brother is an heroic man. If I were to marry him I would live in misery. I have been promised to another. I am weak and cowardly. But now I will go back and act like a true lady. I came here for more reasons then to find my sister. Your brother taught me that it is the small things that make real heroes.”
“Oh.” brother Xander said flatly.
“If he were to treat you as Bluebeard did to Alia, Cassandra and the others I will kill him for you.” I offered stiffly. I wanted to kill him, whoever he was anyway. Giselle laughed bitterly.
“He would be to proud to treat me ill.” she said, “But I hate him.” She got up and walked stiffly back to the castle. I snatched up a pickax and attacked the ground with vengeance. My heart cursed the pompous man who claimed Giselle. Then I laughed wildly. I had forgotten my own engagement. I could not have married her anyway.
“Zeno?” brother Xander cried, “Are you ill.”
“No.” I said bitterly, “But I am also engaged to someone I do not care for. Ironic, if you ask me.”
“You ought not to have done that.” brother Xander said soberly, “You of all people deserve a happy life.”
“For the kingdom I had too.” I said angrily. For the first time in my life, I felt overwhelmed by the unfairness of everything. I had spent twenty years serving my country and king. Never once had I asked for something for myself. Now that I finally wanted something, I could not have it.

Being the 2nd Day of the Blossom Time
Giselle is gone. We did not realize she was gone until midday. Cassandra admitted that she left in the night. It took me great control not to shake her. I will write no more on the subject. We laid the bodies out in their coffins. Sister Anne covered them in what fine cloth she could find. Then we buried the coffins. Tomorrow we leave this place of horror. Yaron would be home by now with our sad story.

Being the 2nd Day of the Planting Season
I have not written in a full month. There has been much going on between Glittering Cities and the Dividers of Kildimere. I am to be married on the first day of the Green Season. A day less then a month. I have put aside all thoughts of Giselle and thrown myself whole heartedly into court duty. I am determined to learn how to sail a ship. Even with a royal wedding to seal the truce, I do not trust the Dividers to sail our ships for us. With every sail I take my stomach becomes more accustomed to the terrible pitching and rolling. But I would still prefer to seat myself upon a horse.

Sister Cassandra never smiles. She has grown thin and pale. She barely eats and hardly sleeps. Not even our father, the king, could scold her into coming to her senses. He has washed hands of her. I told Rupert that Sister Anne and Madra both thought she would get better if she staid in the country near the Divide, but away from Kildimere.
“Maybe she could do some work to occupy her mind, and push away her dark memories.” I added. I did not care how noble a person's blood was. They were never above common work in my opinion. Rupert listened silently then nodded.
“But she cannot go alone.” he said.
“Of course not.” I said impatiently, “In her current condition she will certainly walk into the divide and never come back!”
“Give me your sister as my wife.” Rupert argued, “I knew her since she came here and even before. I can give her the care she needs.”
“But you don't deserve her.” I gasped in horror, “You cannot tie yourself to a mad woman.”
“I can and I will.” Rupert objected.
“I have no objection.” I said slowly. Actually I did. Cassandra had proved herself weak and foolish. Rupert was better then her.

Being the 3rd Day of the Planting Season
Father and Madra had no objection to Rupert marry Cassandra and removing her from court. They will be married quietly in a fortnight. Beatrice is very bitter. Cassandra will have been married twice before her. But even she has voiced no objection. I think my family is ashamed of Cassandra and want her gone. I believe our father, the king, has even placed her below Fiona. But he still does not seem to notice that Fiona is still at court.

Being the 17th Day of the Planting Season
Cassie married Rupert and now they are gone. Rupert was honorably discharged from the army. I gave him a cow and some chickens. Cassandra made no objection to anything, but she would not eat during the wedding feast. We did not hold a seven night feast. I am glad. That would mean two seven night wedding feasts this month. I could not have stood it. Especially since one is my own.

Being the 23rd Day of the Planting Season
Tomorrow starts the seven night feast for my own wedding. My father, the king, bade me ride down to the Divide and see if it would be fit to invite Cassandra and Rupert. I intend to invite then whether they are fit to come or not. I was eager to go, as I did not want to be there to greet Princess Giselladona. I would wait to see her when we started feasting.

Cassandra, her wild curls blowing free, was kneeling barefoot in a garden pulling weeds. Her face was browned and she was no longer thin. Rupert was on the ridge pole of the cottage trying to grab a rooster who was perched on the chimney. He was also barefoot. Rupert saw me first. He waved wildly and slid off the roof.
“Zeno?” he shouted, “What brings you here?” He picked himself up and rushed up to greet me. I dismounted and clasped hands with him.
“I am getting married in a week's time.” I said dryly.
“You?” Cassandra gasped.
“You look well, sister.” I said as I turned to greet her. I realized that no one had ever told her about my marriage. I had just assumed she knew. I supposed Rupert had thought the same.
“We will be there.” Rupert said cheerfully.
“Must I?” Cassandra whimpered.
“Yes you must!” Rupert said firmly, “No more feeling sorry for yourself. If Zeno can make a sacrifice for the country, so can you.”
“Yes Rupert.” Cassandra said meekly. I felt embarrassed. I doubted Cassandra would ever be the same again. But Rupert had obviously been good for her.

Being the 23rd Day of the Planting Season
I dreaded the moment when the feast would begin. I knew I could not avoid Princess Giselladona any longer. I arrived at the feast hall early and sat for about an hour in secret terror. Every time the door opened I jumped slightly. I was ready to write this day down as the worst I ever experienced. Then she arrived. She was draped in red veils, when she entered the feast hall. Her handmaids and guards surrounded her. I could not see her face. I was glad. I will not deny that I had no wish to see it. The lady stopped, then leaving her courtiers behind, she marched up to me. It was the most out of place thing I had ever seen at a seven nights feast. Unless you count the peacock from Cassandra's feast.
“You?” she said. It was Giselle. I felt like a fool. I should have realized Giselle was short for Giselladona.
“Why did you never tell me that you were a prince?” she yelled. Now everyone was staring at us. I never told anyone I was a prince. I always assumed people knew. I stood up and went to her.
“I supposed you knew.” I said completely oblivious to everyone else, “But if you would still have me, I would be honored.
“How do you refuse a man who saved their life?” Giselle said softly, then she took my hands in hers. I drew her close and kissed her. I had my reward after all.

The End

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