Khy has a minion!

Loyalty the Pokez

Welcome to my page, visitor. Below you can read the story of how I went from a murderer to a palace guard and how I met and fell in love with the most beautiful girl in the kingdom. Be warned, though. My story is around 15,000 words. Bookmark it for later if you don't have time to read it now. My owner, Cobra, really tried hard to capture every detail I told her. It was her first time writing so go easy on her please.

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One, Two, Three, Four, Five, Six, Seven, Eight, Nine.

1: Convicted

I remember the first day I was thrown in that cell. Literally thrown in there. I was being arrested at the age of thirteen. Shocking, I know, but I was the fiercest kid known to the land. You see, Kanrik, the leader of the Thieves Guild, found me after raiding a home when I was around five. For some reason, he took me in. He said he had a strong feeling about me. I don’t really know what he meant by that but I went to live with them. I was fed and taken care of to the best of their ability. I became like Kanrik’s son. He taught me everything he knew and he’s the one who taught me how to fight. On the day of my thirteenth birthday, that would be the day I joined the adult crew of the guild. But I had to prove my loyalty and worthiness. I was sent on a mission to steal the Queen’s jewel. I spent days in old libraries, researching the layout of the palace. I knew exactly how to sneak in and steal it without disturbing anyone. Not even their guard dog. Even though I knew how to fight better than most people, I still wasn’t that happy about it. I’d rather sneak by everyone, get what I came for, and get out without having to hurt anyone. I never let Kanrik know that I didn’t want to hurt anyone. They just all nicknamed me The Assassin because I was so silent I could get by anything but when it came down to it, if I had to do that terrible deed, I did it and I did it well. Anyway, the day finally arrived. I waited until nightfall since that would be when everyone in the palace, except the guards of course, went to bed. I easily snuck over the outer hedge and over to the creek running by the palace. There’s a drain there that obviously leads inside. It was disgusting but I crawled through there and into the sewers running below the palace. I took a left then a right then another right and I knew I was on the other side of the palace. I snuck out another drain pipe and ended up right where I wanted to be. On the side of the palace where the King and Queen’s bedroom was located. I climbed the wall with ease and got up to their balcony. Thankfully I remembered to pack everything I needed. I picked the lock and slowly opened the door. My heart started racing as soon as I saw them. Absolutely defenseless. I don’t know what came over me. I sort of panicked. This had never happened before. I was always the one with no feelings whatsoever. I saw the jewel and I went for it, not noticing the rug on the ground which I of course tripped over. I came crashing down, waking both of them. The Queen screamed, alerting the guards outside of their room. It took them a second and that was all I needed. I freaked and attacked our rulers… Then the guards came bursting through the door with their dogs which pinned me down, slashing my back and body in general in the process. I could’ve taken them. I really don’t know what was wrong with me that night. They dragged me away, down into the dungeon where they threw me into that cell. I knew I was going to be spending the rest of my life in there. The palace had a no violence rule. Lucky for me… Not. I was forced to rot in that cell until I passed from natural causes. Which I didn’t think would take too long due to the damage done to me by those beasts. I slumped in the corner, feeling the warm sensation of my own blood draining down my back. I grew fainter and fainter until finally my eyes closed for what I thought would be the last time.
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2: A Girl

When I awoke the next day I was utterly astonished. Not only was I alive, but I was no longer bleeding. I couldn’t see my own back but I reached my hand around and touched what used to be huge open gashes. I felt... thread. Someone stitched me up. Who would have done that? I know none of the guards here would have done that for me. Unless it was only just to keep me alive to suffer even longer. I figured that was probably what happened. I stared at the clock, conveniently located right in front of me on the wall outside of my prison cell. 6:00 PM. Footsteps echoed from the left staircase. A guard appeared with a bowl of food. He literally tossed it in my cell, nowhere near me. The bowl split apart on the ground and mashed potatoes flew everywhere. Arrogant me decided to say How did you know that’s my favorite meal? The guard slammed the cell door shut and walked away. I slowly scooted over to the broken bowl. My whole body was sore and aching. I scooped up the potatoes in both hands and ate. They didn’t even give me a spoon. But why should they? This is how my days went on for a long while. Eventually the food changed to things like hot soup which just ended up splashing on me and burning me and I just didn’t eat that day.

One night I looked at the clock and it was 7:30 PM. Hot soup was served that day so I was still hungry. Out of the corner of my eye to the right was a small white figure. It was too dark to make out any features but it looked like a small child. It got closer and I could see it was a small girl. She had to have been five years old or so. She had her hands behind her back until she got right up to my cell’s bars. She revealed a large loaf of fresh bread. So fresh I could smell it. My mouth was salivating. Without thinking, I lunged forward and took it from her. She jumped back a little and I devoured the bread in just seconds. Instead of fleeing, however, she just stood there and stared at me with pure curiosity written on her flawless face. Her light blonde hair hung halfway down her back and sitting on top of her head was a golden tiara. How did I not notice it sooner? This was the princess… I couldn’t remember her name. I was too malnourished to think straight. My name is Pelia. she said in a soft, delicate voice. It was like she read my mind. Water..? I asked. The bread dried out my mouth completely. I was barely even able to form that one word. Without hesitation this time she reached into the pocket of her dress and pulled out a flask of water. She reached through the bars to hand it to me. Gently, I took it from her and took a few sips. I had to use all of my will power to not just drink it all in one gulp. How is your back? I stared at her, confused. Your stitches. How are they holding up? she said, carefully grabbing the bars. I reached my hand around to my back again. Y-You did this..? But.. you’re only a child. So are you, silly. She had a point.
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3: A Friend

Pelia visited me almost every day. If she didn’t it was because a guard caught her on her way down to me or she had other obligations. She was being taught how to be the new Queen. Because of me… I put all of this pressure on this young girl. I didn’t even think about her at all during my hateful, careless act. The only thing on my mind was to get the jewel and get out without hurting anyone. But instead, I hurt a total of three people. Honestly, I hurt the entire kingdom. Each day that went by was just another cruel reminder. I had to tell her. But she’s so young… How would she even handle it? I can’t tell her. Someone else will eventually. This was one of those days where she wasn’t able to visit me. I was always trying to find a way out of this cage. But eventually I realized why the guards didn’t need to stay down there with me. It was absolutely impossible. I pretty much just stayed slumped over in my corner and attempted to sleep. I was finally getting fed enough food but I wasn’t getting the sleep I needed… This night was different. I managed to drift off into what turned out to be a nightmare. I saw myself running frantically like something tragic had just happened. I ran and ran until I got to a room where I saw Kanrik. He was standing there with someone tied up in a chair. The person was blurry. But that person meant something to me. It was like the entire nightmare was in some foreign language. I couldn’t understand anything that was going on. Then Kanrik lunged at me and I woke up panting, dripping with sweat. Ugh. I was disgusting. I hadn’t bathed since I crawled in those sewers. I really needed a bath. I couldn’t take it anymore.The next morning I heard tiny footsteps coming down the stairs. I also heard splashing noises. Then I saw Pelia carrying this giant bucket that was practically the same size as her. The water was splashing everywhere and making a huge mess. I was finally able to walk again, barely. I moved over to the bars and asked what she was doing. You’re kinda smelly. she said with a giggle. My cheeks were probably bright red but you couldn’t tell since they were covered in layers upon layers of dirt. After subconsciously freaking because of this mindreading thing again, I said That bucket isn’t going to fit through these bars Pel. That’s why I brought a sponge! Her voice was so tiny and squeaky. I couldn’t help but smile. I carefully took my shirt off, trying hard not to disturb my stitches which were still a little painful. I reached through the bars and grabbed the sponge. I dipped it in the water and washed my face off first. Pelia just sat on the ground, staring at me again. The mud ran from my face and down my chest. I could finally see my skin again. I dipped it in the water again and washed off my arms. I tried to reach around and get my back but it hurt too bad. I kept hitting my stitches and the water burned my wounds. Pelia could see I was having difficulties. Do you want some help? Help. I hadn’t had help from anyone in such a long time. I had been sort of on my own for a while. I looked down, handed her the sponge, and turned so my back was facing the bars. Your stitches look great! she exclaimed. I’m awesome. A chuckle managed to sneak out of me and I sat there smiling. She gently and carefully got the majority of dirt off my back and cleaned up around my wounds without me feeling a thing. My name is Khyome by the way. Khyome. I like that name. I smiled again. I was finally, like, 70% more clean and feeling a lot better. Before Pelia left, I took the sponge, soaked it in the water, and squished it over my head. My hair felt like hair again. I had been so sweaty and sticky. It was truly awful. I was very thankful for Pelia that night and many more after.
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4: A Promise

A few years had passed by. Slowly. But Pelia still visited me practically every day. It was amazing seeing her blossom into a beautiful young woman. She would make a gorgeous queen, but that’s not what she wanted. I remember one day all too well. I heard her footsteps coming down the stairs but normally she would be humming a song. This time she wasn’t. She ran over to my cell and collapsed to her knees just sobbing, burying her face in her hands. I hurried to the bars that separated us, reached through and grabbed her wrists. She didn’t pull away. We were friends. She knew I wasn’t there to hurt her now. I pulled her hands away from her face and touched her cheeks. Pelia, what’s wrong? Talk to me. I could barely understand her through her sobs. Pel, come on. Calm down. Everything will be okay. Just tell me what’s wrong. She looked up at me and I could see the pain in her eyes. I don’t want to be queen, Khy… she whispered. She buried her face again, crying even harder. I softly moved her hair behind her ear. You’ll make a great queen though. I know it. But I don’t WANT to be queen! I never did and now I’m forced to! she yelled. A part of me was dying to apologize because I knew I was the cause.. but I didn’t want her to know that. I just stared at her for a while. It was tearing me up inside to see her this way but what was I supposed to say? Finally, without me even thinking, I just said I will always be here for you, Pel. I promise. I will take care of you. I don’t really know how, but I promise I will. She looked up at me again then reached her arms through the bars for a hug. That was our first hug. It was awkward and uncomfortable but it was also nice.

Pel wiped her tears away and started to calm down a bit. Khy… she said softly. As soon as I’m officially the queen, wanna know what I’m going to do? What’s that? I asked. I’m going to release you. I promise. I hate seeing you in here. You are so sweet and so kind and you don’t deserve this. But I did.. I did deserve it. Every single year of it. I promise that I will release you as soon as I turn eighteen. That’s only two years away. Pelia… I tried to speak but a ball was forming in my throat. No, Khy. It’s what I’m going to do. Honestly, I was terrified. What was I supposed to do when I got out of this cell? I can’t go back to the Guild. I don’t want to.. I want to be here with her. She’s my only friend.. I’ve never felt so safe around anyone before.

We heard a guard coming down the stairs. They knew that Pel visited me every day. They couldn’t stop her from doing it. So she didn’t run away or anything but out of habit I slid back away from the bars a bit. The guard had a bowl in his hand. Dinner time. I could see the steam. It was a bowl of hot soup. He threw it through the bars and it broke on the ground in my cell. Pelia instantly stood up and yelled How dare you?! Who do you think you are? I know you know who I am. I demand that you bring him a nice meal and actually hand it to him you monster! The guard looked terrified. He bowed to her and went to bring me better food. I couldn’t help but laugh under my breath. She’s a short little thing and he was a huge muscular guard. It was just a hilarious sight to see. Once the guard left, Pel sat back down and we laughed and laughed. She imitated the guard and we were just having a good time. It was nice seeing her happy again. When the guard came back, he had two plates of food. It was turkey and mashed potatoes with gravy and some corn. Left over from their dinner upstairs. He handed both plates to Pelia and she handed the one to me. She sat on the floor and ate with me. I couldn’t even describe my level of happiness that night.
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5: Her Song

I started to see less of Pel now that she was reaching the age of eighteen. She had a lot of things to learn and it took up a lot of time. But I did get to see her for a little bit on occasion. She would bring me books to keep myself occupied. One day I heard her coming down the stairs. She ran up to my cell and I stood up and walked over to her. It was insane how tall I had gotten. I should also mention that Pelia brought me new clothes from time to time since I wasn’t a thirteen year old boy anymore. I was 25. I had spent over ten years in that cell. I don’t think I would have made it without Pelia’s help. I also don’t know why the guards didn’t just release me to a better room. Pelia practically made this cell as comfortable for me as she could. It was still agonizing though. No sunlight, no freedom. But I still felt somewhat free from the Guild. Anyway, I got off track. Pelia ran to my cell and handed me another book. This one is special, you’ll see. But I have to go. We reached through the bars for another awkward hug. I went back to my corner where my books were piled and I sat on my pillow that she brought me. I opened the book and started reading. I didn’t really see what was so fantastic about it… Then a folded piece of paper slipped out from between some pages. I picked it up and opened it.

Hey Khy. I know I haven’t been able to see you as much for a little while now. I miss you like crazy. I hate all these training sessions I have to go to. Oh, smell the paper! I sprayed it with my perfume! I could hear her little giggle in my head. I brought the paper up to my nose and it did smell just like her. It was a wonderful scent. This cell isn’t really the best smelling place. I continued reading. You’ve been on my mind a lot, and you know how I love music. I kinda started writing a song. Let me know what you think of it? Imagine me singing it!

"Sometimes I feel so cold, like I’m waiting around all by myself. Loneliness gets so old. I’m in the lost and found, sitting on the shelf. Been stuck for way too long. You’re who I’m counting on. Oh, tell me you’re here, that you will watch over me forever. Oh, take hold of my heart. Show me you’ll love me forever… forever."

That’s all I really have right now. Next time I pop down to see you, tell me what you think! Be harsh, I can take it!

I didn’t realize right away that I was sitting there with a ridiculously huge smile on my face. I just kept reading it over and over. It’s about me. Her song is about me. I smelled the paper one last time then tucked it under my pillow. I fell asleep with that song playing in my head. I could hear her voice.

I woke up the next morning and opened my eyes to see Pelia sitting by the bars, staring at me. Morning sleepyhead! I’ve been waiting for you to get up. I sat up and rubbed my eyes. I ran my hand through my hair. I could feel how gross it was. I needed a bath again. It never fails… Pel can read my mind. I figured you would want a bath so I brought a bucket of water and some soap and stuff. This time she commanded the guard that was standing nearby to open my cell and let me have the bucket she brought. It wouldn’t fit through the bars. He handed it to me then locked the cell again. I took off my shirt and ran some soapy water over my chest with the sponge. Pelia blushed and turned around so her back was to me. I laughed. So. Um. That song. What did you think of it? she asked in a shaky voice. I mean, obviously it’s a work in progress. I could see her still talking with her hands even though she wasn’t facing me. I ran some water through my hair. It felt so much better and much less greasy. I was dripping wet and needed a towel. A puddle was forming in my cell. Pel, did you bring a- Before I could finish my question she handed me a towel without looking at me. I chuckled again, You know, you don’t have to have your back to me. I know. But you’re avoiding my question! she still hadn’t turned back around. I liked it a lot. It’s really sweet. But you know I can’t sing, right? Nonsense! I’m sure you sound fine. I used the towel to dry off my hair and told Pel I was done so she could turn around. She looked straight at my abs. I looked down too. Yeah I get bored and work out in here. I.. I see that. She turned around again. Oh my gosh, Pel. Here. I’ll put my shirt back on. and I did. She turned again and apologized. I’m sorry. I’m just not really around guys a lot. Other than the guards, the rest of the people in the palace are maids and stuff so like they’re all girls. I smiled. It’s fine, I understand. Before I met you I was never really around any women either. Hence why I might be so awkward. Pelia looked over at the guard. Could you let me in his cell, please? I took a few steps back. Uh, Pel? We had always been separated by these bars. Our hugs involved these bars. Was I about to be face to face with her with nothing between us? The guard told her it wasn’t a good idea and that I’m a criminal. He’s not a criminal to me. Open the cell. The guard did as she asked. She slowly walked in. He told her he had to lock it behind her so I couldn’t escape. She rolled her eyes and he locked her in there with me. We stood there for a little while. My heart was racing. I thought it was going to beat out of my chest. Calm down, Khy. I just want to give you a real hug. I haven’t been able to see you that much in a few weeks. She got closer to me and raised her arms to put them over my shoulders. I bent down and slowly and carefully wrapped mine around her waist. My first REAL hug. It felt.. amazing. Over her shoulder I saw the guard staring at me. He looked just as worried, like I was going to do something to her. I cut our hug short and backed up a little again. Don’t you have to be somewhere? I asked her. Probably. she responded. She took a few steps closer again, stood up on her tippy toes and kissed my cheek. I’m so glad I met you. she whispered. The guard told her she needed to come out. He went to unlock the cell and I sat down on my pillow so that he didn’t feel threatened or whatever. Pel walked out and he locked the cell again. We waved to each other then she walked up the stairs.

The guard stayed there and stared at me. I felt so happy but uncomfortable and upset at the same time. What is your name? I asked the guard. He didn’t respond. I just want to know what I can call you. You probably don’t like staring at me in silence either, do you? My name is Hugo. Nice to meet you, Hugo. I can’t say the same. Look, I know I messed up. I was young and I was stupid and was in with some really bad people. But Pelia has changed me… the guard laughed. I’m not asking you to like me. At all. I just don’t want you, or anyone else, to be the one to tell Pel who I really am. What I did all those years ago. I want to be the one to do it. He looked straight in my eyes and, somewhat hesitantly, nodded his head then looked down. He didn’t stay much longer then I went back to sleep.
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6: Coronation Day

The day had finally come. I hadn’t seen Pelia in two weeks. It felt like forever… But I had this day marked on the calendar she gave me awhile back. The day I walk out of this cell… My mind was racing, I didn’t know what to think. All day I paced back and forth in my cell. Even Hugo could see I was freaking out. All he had to wait for was the command to bring me to the new queen. I didn’t want to leave the palace and go back out to the real world with other people. I only wanted to be near Pel. She’s the only person I felt safe around. I sat down and put my face in my hands. I ran them through my hair and leaned back against the wall. When am I supposed to tell her? What will she do? What is she going to do when she releases me? What is the rest of the community going to think? This criminal is being released after thirteen whole years in a jail cell. Would word get out to the Guild? I wonder if they even think I’m alive. I felt that ball in my throat again. I tried my best to hold back my tears but my emotions got the best of me. I silently cried into my hands. Why are you upset? You’re being released today. Hugo… all I’ve known… for the past thirteen years is this cell… This cell, and Pelia… What am I supposed to do when I get out? Honestly, the thought had somewhat crossed my mind.. to do something terrible just to get locked up again. But that would hurt Pelia and that’s the last thing I want to do. I’ve changed. I want to stay changed for her. I pulled her note out from under my pillow and smelled it. Her scent was fading but it was still there. It calmed me a bit.

I could hear the noise and commotion upstairs from the coronation ceremony. I kept watching the clock, waiting for Hugo to be notified to release me… That time finally came. Another guard came down and whispered to Hugo. He nodded and walked over to my cell. Time to go. he said. Queen Pelia has ordered your release. I slowly stood up, shaking, and looked around my cell. My home for thirteen years. I wanted to grab all of my items and carry them with me. Hugo unlocked my cell and I froze. My legs wouldn’t move. Come on, Khyome. Out of your cell. I couldn’t even speak. My mind was going to explode. My heart was racing again, I started sweating. Hugo finally just walked in to my cell and placed some handcuffs on my wrists so I wouldn’t run. I was still a prisoner until I talked to Pelia. In front of the majority of the kingdom… I don’t even remember the walk to her. It felt like forever but it also felt like a second. It was indescribable. Hugo walked me into a room, filled with sunlight pouring in through stained glass windows. I closed my eyes and turned my head. I wasn’t used to that kind of light. I knew I looked terrible too. There were all these fancy, dressed up people staring at me. Once my eyes adjusted, I saw her. Sitting there in her new throne. A gorgeous, pastel blue dress, golden sparkling tiara. Her blonde hair was shining and her skin was radiant. I had never seen her in this lighting before. She’s more gorgeous than I previously thought. It felt like ages and seconds again just walking up to her. Hugo and I bowed before her. I didn’t even want to look back up, but I also did at the same time. I was still going crazy and I seriously couldn’t breathe. I stood back up and Pelia looked me in the eyes. She smiled. Instantly I felt a wave of calming relief flow over my whole body. I felt safe again. She stood up in front of her chair. I order the release of Khyome. Our prisoner of thirteen years. His previous acts are to be forgotten, however, he will not be released out into the kingdom. The crowd erupted with whispers and I know I just had the look of confusion on my face. I wanted to whisper what are you doing but I didn’t think it would be the right time to address our new queen that way. Khyome is to be my personal body guard. For eternity. The crowd erupted even louder. I’m not sure if they knew I was the criminal that took away her parents. But either way, to them, I was still just a criminal. And Pelia was about to have him walking around by her side. I couldn’t control myself any longer. Pelia… I whispered aloud. I… I can’t… I knew only her and Hugo could hear me. Guard, please remove his handcuffs. Hugo did as she wished. The crowd grew silent. Everyone could hear them unlock, it was that quiet. He took them off of me and I just stood there… I was frozen with fear again. Khyome, stand by my side. Pelia ordered. This was a whole different her. She wasn’t fun and hyper, like I knew her to be. She was proper, mature, and somewhat frightening. Slowly I walked up the few stairs and stood next to her. I looked terrible compared to her. Thank you all for attending my coronation today. Everyone is dismissed to the ballroom for food and festivities.

The last people to clear the room were the royals, which included Pelia and now… myself. I was waiting for someone to come escort her. But… that was MY job now. I could be with her alone. Everyone left through the doors to go to the ballroom. The two guards at the doors were waiting for Pel and I. She waved her hand and motioned for them to go on ahead. She still stood there, sophisticated and proper, until the door finally closed. As soon as it closed I had armfuls of Pel hugging me tightly. I’m so happy to see you! Today has been ridiculous. she said. I.. I’m happy to see you too. I stuttered. We let go of each other. Is everything okay, Khy? she asked, giving me a very concerned look. Yeah.. I’m just.. confused. Surprise! She walked behind her chair and picked up a pile of clothing. It was a palace guard’s uniform. She handed it to me. Go take a real shower and put these on. Here, I’ll walk you to your new room. It’s right down the hall from mine.

We walked together down the long, beautiful stone hallways until we came to a big wooden door. This was my new room. Not a jail cell. An actual room. She opened the door and we walked inside. There was a huge bed and a dresser and even training equipment. There was another door inside the room. That’s your own bathroom. she said pointing at it. Guess what. You and I can’t leave each other now. Since you’re my body guard, we have to be together at all times. The only thing is that we have separate rooms, but mine is literally right at the end of the hall. You and I are the only two with rooms in this wing of the palace. I’m sure you’re excited to get a shower and stuff. I’ll just be waiting out here for you since I can’t go down to the ballroom without you. This was so much to take in. I clutched the clothing and walked over to the bathroom door. I opened it and was speechless. It was huge and golden, with a large bathtub shower thing and just wow. I’ve been filthy for so long. I walked in and closed the door behind me. I placed the clothing on the counter next to the sink. There was a huge mirror that I was forced to look at. I could see how disgusting I got over the years. Not my features, though. Not to be narcissistic but I turned into a handsome young man. It was just hard to see under the layers of dirt and grime. My hair had gotten long and I wasn’t really a fan of it. I fumbled through the drawers under the sink until I found some scissors. I looked back up to the mirror, grabbed my hair like putting it up in a ponytail, held my breath and snipped it off. Large black clumps of hair fell down to the ground. Instantly I felt better. I looked better. It was still long but not crazy long. Then I turned around to the shower. I turned the water on, stepped in, and let the water pour over me. It felt unbelievable. All those years just wiped away in seconds. I looked down and watched the dirt flow off of me. I felt that I was crying but you couldn’t tell. I put my head back and ran my hands through my now short hair. There was shampoo and everything in there and I cleaned the grease out of my hair for good. That was the longest shower I’ve probably ever taken. Then I remembered Pelia was still sitting outside. I finished up and started putting the clothing on that she gave me. It was heavy but comfortable and embroidered with actual gold. Once I was dressed, I wiped the steam away from the mirror. I was breathless again.. staring at myself. This was the new me. And I was okay with this now. I felt like a brand new person. My past was erased permanently.
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7: A New Life

I walked out of the bathroom, a cloud of steam followed behind me. Pelia was on the bed humming a song. She sat up and looked at me in disbelief. Her eyes filled up with tears. Oh my gosh… Khy… you look amazing! she could barely speak. I felt her happiness and excitement. She got up and ran over to hug me. I was really loving all these hugs. You smell so good too! And look at your hair! She ran her hands through it. It’s so short! You look like a whole new person! I reached up and softly grabbed her wrists and pulled them down. I held her hands. They were so delicate, soft, and tiny. I feel like a whole new person. It’s all thanks to you.. I felt her squeeze my hands and she smiled through her happy tears. Are you ready to go down to the ballroom now? I think the question is are YOU ready? she giggled. As I’ll ever be. I replied. I felt calm, collected, and just really, really good. I didn’t feel like a criminal anymore. That whole part of me was gone. Down the drain. She still held on to my one hand and we walked down to the ballroom. Hugo was waiting outside of the door for us. He bowed to us both and opened the door. There were two lines of men with trumpets. They started playing and everyone looked over. When their song was done, Hugo announced Introducing your new queen, Miss Pelia Lockhart, and her bodyguard, Sir Khyome. This time I squeezed Pelia’s hand. I wasn’t as afraid as before but it’s still frightening being around all of these people. We walked over to a big throne where she sat down. I bowed and stood beside her. She looked up at me and I looked down at her and we smiled at each other. Everything was going great.

The crowd cleared out a little and move to the sides of the room. I wasn’t too sure what was going on. I was still new to this whole thing. Some man walked up to Pel and I. It is time for your first dance, m’lady. Pel stood up, brushed her dress with her hands, then turned to me and held out her hand. I seriously think I felt my heart stop. Everything was great.. then that happened. I stood there, staring at her hand. Take my hand, Khy. It’s okay. I carefully grabbed it and while we were walking out to the center of the dance floor I whispered Pelia… I can’t dance. I don’t know how. She didn’t say anything, just smiled. We got to the center and she walked in front of me and faced me. She took my other hand and placed it on her waist. I tried removing it out of total embarrassment but she grabbed my hand and put it back. I could feel the heat on my face, I knew it was probably turning red. Just look at me. Don’t pay attention to anyone else. she whispered. The music started playing and automatically our feet started moving. I have no idea how it happened but we were dancing. She kept whispering to me I, 2, 3, 4. and it really helped. I spun her around and dipped her. We stared into each other’s eyes for what seemed like forever. We both smiled and I brought her back up. The music ended, everyone started clapping and Pelia and I bowed to the crowd. We walked back over to her throne and she sat down again. I stood next to her and was finally able to breathe again. I’m pretty sure she heard me exhale.

Some other men would come up to Pelia on occasion and ask for a dance. It was weird, I didn’t like the jealous feeling I got. But I just felt like I needed to be with her at all times. Even though I could see her and I know she was watching me the whole time she was dancing, I still wanted to be the one dancing with her. Coronation Day was coming to an end. The sun was setting and it was time for all the guests to leave. The maids started cleaning up the palace, even though it didn’t get too messy, they still felt the need to scrub everything. It was a completely different world up here. Pel grabbed my hand and told me to come with her and keep my eyes closed. Where are we going? I asked. You’ll see. Just trust me! It wasn’t hard to do. I could put all of my trust into her and I hoped she felt the same way about me. I blindly walked with her. We went through a door and I could feel wind. I smelled sweet smells and could hear birds chirping. Okay open your eyes. When I opened them, at first I was just looking at her. Then I realized I was outside. I was breathing in the fresh air. She brought me to the garden in front of the castle. I looked up at the horizon and colors of red and yellow and orange poured into my eyes. It was a sunset. I hadn’t seen one in forever… I never realized just how beautiful they were. I put my arm around Pelia’s waist and we watched the sunset together. I leaned towards her and said By the way, happy birthday Pel. I was waiting! she giggled. Once the sun fully set and the sky was filled with dark blues and purples, we went back inside. We were both pretty exhausted. It’s a lot being around that many people. I walked with her to our hallway. My door was before hers. We stood in front of mine and I thanked her for releasing me again. I promised to be the best body guard I could be. She hugged me one last time that night and ran her hand down my arm to my own hand. We held each other’s for a bit then she turned to walk to her room. I didn’t let her hand go until the last second when her fingers slipped out of mine. I smiled to myself and walked into my room, after she closed her own door.

This beautiful room was all mine… I took another good look around. The floor was stone with a huge red carpet in the middle. My bed had a giant, fluffy red blanket on it and even fluffier white pillows. It was a canopy bed so it had like that sheet thing that hangs over it. That was also red. Everything was embroidered with gold thread. There was a dresser with a TV above it and the exercise equipment I mentioned earlier over in the corner of the room. I went through the drawers of the dresser and found some pajama pants to wear instead of sleeping in this armor. I put those on and crawled into bed. There was a glass of water on my nightstand. I drank the whole thing, put the glass down, then pulled my covers up and fell asleep.
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8: The Nightmare

That night was terrible. I tossed and turned, sweating in my sleep. I was having a horrible nightmare. There was a never-ending long hallway that I was running down. Pel was in danger and I had to save her. I ran and ran and finally got to the end of it. I burst through the door and found Kanrik holding a sword to Pel who was tied up in a chair. He was demanding I be released back to him so I could join the Guild again. I grabbed the sword off of my back and lunged at Kanrik then I woke up. I could pretty much hear my own heartbeat, I felt the blood pumping everywhere in my body. I sat up, regretting the fact that I drank all my water before going to bed. I wiped the sweat from my forehead and moved my legs off to the edge of the bed. I took a long, deep breath and stood up. I knew it was just a dream but I had to go check on Pel anyway to clear my mind. I walked out into the hallway and down to her door. I slowly opened it and saw her sound asleep in her bed, perfectly fine. Relieved, I quietly shut her door and went to find the kitchen. I really needed a drink.

I was walking around forever, opening door after door. I should really ask Pel to give me a tour of the palace. Finally, I opened the right door and found the kitchen. There was a chef woman in there getting ready to prepare breakfast. I guess she didn’t hear me come through the door because I spooked her when she turned and saw me. Great first impression, huh? She dropped the milk jug she was carrying and it made a huge mess on the floor. We both bent down at the same time to pick up the jug. I’m so sorry, let me clean this up for you. No, no. It’s my job. We both had our hands on the split open jug. She hesitantly looked up at me. I smiled and said Please. Let me clean this up. It was my fault. I just need some towels. She nodded and got up to hand me some. I started mopping up the mess with the towels, then she said So, you’re Miss Pelia’s new bodyguard. I stood up and replied Yeah, I guess I am. She looked me up and down. I forgot I was still just in pajama pants. I’m not supposed to wear that armor at all times, am I? The only time you can change is when you are sleeping. So you’re fine. What are you doing in the kitchen anyway? Oh… I just woke up from a nightmare and needed a drink. I just came to get some water or something. She got into the cabinets and pulled out a glass like the one I had in my bedroom. She filled it up with water from the sink and handed it to me. Thank you. I said. You’re not afraid of me…? If Miss Pelia decided to make you her body guard, you must not be that bad.

I didn’t have any more nightmares or dreams that night. I woke up feeling a lot better and put my nightmare in the back of my mind. I could smell the breakfast that woman was preparing last night. I got out of bed and hopped in the shower. Didn’t feel as great as the first time but it still felt amazing. I dried off and put on my armor. Before I went back to sleep last night, I worked on a little late birthday present for Pel. I grabbed it off the dresser and stuffed it in my pocket. I was going to wait for the right time to give it to Pel. I didn’t really want anyone else around. I walked out into the hallway and walked to her door. I quietly knocked on it but I didn’t get a response. My nightmare popped back to the front of my mind and I quickly opened the door. Pel was still in bed but the sound of the door woke her up. She could see the look of worry on my face. Khy? What’s wrong? What happened? she said as she sat up. Oh.. uh.. nothing.. it’s um.. breakfast time? She yawned and stretched. Oh, haha, I’m sure you’re excited for that, huh? I nodded. I’ll let you get dressed. I closed her door and stood outside. A few minutes later she came out dressed in just a white t-shirt and her pajama pants and socks. Her hair was still a little messy but she still looked beautiful. We walked together to the dining hall. She sat at the end of the table and I sat beside her around the corner. There was so much food. There was practically every breakfast option you could imagine. Apparently Pelia’s usual is frosted flake cereal because a server woman brought that to her as soon as she sat down, along with a small jug of milk and a glass of orange juice. I looked around the table deciding what I wanted to eat. Bring him one of everything. Pelia said with a mouthful of cereal. The server nodded and started gathering food from around the table. I was pretty hungry and scarfed it down quickly.

Living in the palace was great. Pel always wanted out though so I had to go with her around town. Dressed in the armor, people treated me differently. No one thought of me as a criminal. They just saw me as the queen’s body guard. She loved shopping for clothing because she didn’t like the royal clothing she would be forced to wear at meetings and stuff. She also liked to shop for music, and fresh fruits and vegetables. Normally the servers would go out and do that sort of thing but Pelia insists she does it because it gets her out of the palace. While we were shopping for music, I decided it would be a good time to try and get her alone so I could give her my present. I put my hand in my pocket but I happened to look over and saw a member of the Thieves Guild standing nearby. He wasn’t looking at me or anything, but I knew him. His name was Lorin. He was one of the higher ups in the Guild. Kanrik and him were good friends. It’s been forever since I’ve seen him but he looks the same. He looked over and I broke eye contact instantly. Pelia, we need to leave. But I’m busy. Pel, seriously. I was getting very anxious and I think she could feel it. I put my arm around her and guided her back towards the palace. I looked behind me and Lorin was gone. I’m not sure if he knew it was me. I mean, I was thirteen the last time he saw me. And they all probably think I died or something. All I cared about was getting Pel back to the palace carefully.
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9: His Song

What was that about Khy? she asked when we made it to the garden. I’m sorry. I just saw someone that looked suspicious and wanted to keep you safe. I put my hand in my pocket. Now that we were officially alone, behind the gate of the palace, I decided to give her the present. Hey, I made something for you. You did?! she exclaimed. I handed her the folded up piece of paper. You wrote a song for me. I couldn’t sleep last night so I decided to write what I was feeling and turned it into a song.. for you. Oh. My. Gosh! Khyome! She snatched it from my hands and started reading it instantly. I put my hand around her waist and guided her over to the garden bench. She didn’t look up from the paper once. These were my lyrics:

I’ve got this passion. It’s something I can’t describe. It’s so electric, it’s like I’ve just come alive. I feel this freedom now that my past is erased. I feel the healing. I found the meaning of grace. I found grace. If only you could see me yesterday, who I used to be before the change. You’d see a broken heart, you’d see the battle scars. Funny how words can’t explain how good it feels to finally break the chains. I’m not what I have done. I’m what I’ve overcome… I know I stumble, I know I still face defeat. These second changes will define me. So I’m moving forward, I’m standing on my two feet. I’ve got momentum. Got someone saving me. I’ll make mistakes and I might fall, but I won’t break. I’ve got someone saving me. I’m what I’ve overcome. I’m what I’ve overcome…

She didn’t say anything for a while. I was a little worried she thought it was stupid or something. Then I saw a teardrop fall on the paper. I lifted up her chin with my hand. Pel? She looked in my eyes. That was beautiful.. Khy.. wow.. She hugged me, of course. But this was a longer hug that usual. I could hear her sniffling on my shoulder. I thought you’d like it. It’s a late birthday present. She tightened the hug and continued to softly cry tears of happiness. She pulled away and looked at me again. I wiped the tears from her face, her cheeks were somewhat stained with blank lines from her eyeliner. C’mon weirdo. I don’t want people thinking I upset you or something. Perk up! I said with a laugh. She giggled a little and wiped the new tears that formed. Then she gasped. My makeup! I laughed again and followed her as she ran in the palace, up to her room to redo her makeup. She went in her room and I stood outside the door. I heard You can come in, silly. come from inside. My heart fluttered for some reason. I hadn’t been inside her room yet. I walked in and just kinda stood there awkwardly. You can sit on the bed. Pel giggled as she applied more blush in the mirror over her dresser. There were so many makeup things on that. It was confusing. I sat down on the bed and twiddled my thumbs. She turned around once she was finished. Well, what do you think? she asked. I looked up and took a few seconds. She was so beautiful.. I couldn’t describe it. Does it look bad?? she asked, worried. I stood up. No, no! You look fantastic Pel. You always do. We both blushed and looked down. There was a knock on the door. It’s time for dinner, Miss Pel. You too, Sir Khyome. It was Hugo getting us for dinner.

We walked down to the dining hall. Both of us were smiling like idiots and holding hands. After dinner we hung out in her room again. She decided to try singing the song I wrote for her. It sounded even more amazing than it did in my head. She had a beautiful voice that I could listen to all day. She didn’t like to look at me when she sang though. Hearing that song come to life made me feel… I don’t even know. I can’t describe it. It really explained the way I was feeling. I had kept the piece of paper she wrote her few lyrics on for me. I always had it with me, tucked behind my breastplate, so it would stay near my heart. I pulled it out and asked if she wanted to give it another go. She looked at it for a while and smiled. We were both sitting on the edge of the bed next to each other. I laid down with my arms crossed behind my head. She started singing her song.

Sometimes I feel so cold, like I’m waiting around all by myself. Loneliness gets so old. I’m in the lost and found sitting on the shelf. Been stuck for way too long. I hear your voice… I sang without thinking. She stopped and looked back at me. I had my eyes closed but I felt her move. I opened them and saw her staring at me with a huge grin. I told you! You have a great voice! You sound just how I imagined… She laid down beside me and continued singing without the paper. Been stuck for way too long. I hear your voice. You’re who I’m counting on. She grabbed my hand and held it tight. Oh, tell me you’re here, that you’ll watch over me forever. Oh, take hold of my heart, show me you’ll love me forever… forever. I know that you can tell when I start to let my hope fade away. I need to catch myself, open my ears to hear you calling my name. Been fighting way too long. I hear your voice.. You had me all along. Oh, tell me you’re here, that you’ll watch over me forever. Oh, take hold of my heart, show me you’ll love me forever. When I’m starting to drown, you jump in to save me. When my world’s upside down, your hands, they shake me and wake me. Oh, tell me you’re here, that you’ll watch over me forever. Oh, take hold of my heart, show me you’ll love me forever. Oh, tell me you’re here, that you’ll watch over me forever. Oh, take hold of my heart, show me you’ll love me forever… forever…

There was a knock on the door again. We both quickly sat up and I got up and walked over to the door. Pel fixed her hair since she was laying on it. I opened the door and saw Hugo standing there. Sir Khyome. Please come quickly. Pelia, you need to stay here and lock your door. I looked back at her, both of us with fear in our eyes. She didn’t have a chance to give me one of her hugs before Hugo pulled me out in the hallway and shut the door.
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