Move it Watto!

I looked up from the cafeteria line. Lily Bennett, the most popular girl in
school, was impatiently waiting behind me. She raised her eyebrows at me. I
sighed deeply and looked back down. Sorry Lily.
Whatever. She said annoyed as she flipped her platinum blonde hair
over her shoulder and pushed passed me with her friends.
I silently got my food. I picked up my tray and turned to the tables. I
thought that I could see an empty one in the back. I put my head down and
tried to not look anyone in the eye. You know, to avoid confrontation, and
my lunch being shoved in my face. I dont know why everyone hates me. I
dont think that Ive done anything that bad. Im not mean. Ive never been
mean. I dont think Im ugly, but hey I dont see the guys fighting each other
to date me. Oh well, I was used to it. I managed to make it to the table with
my lunch still in tact. I set down my tray and began to eat my lunch in
peace.
Oh sorry. I guess that I should explain.
Im Watto, well actually Im Mallory Watson, but I have that nickname
instead of my real name, courtesy of Lily Bennett. Lucky me.
A few years ago, she got tired of saying my whole name, probably
because it was wasting her time, so she shortened it to Watto. Its caught on
unfortunately and now everyone calls me that. I would not necessarily call
myself the most popular kid in school, considering the fact that, well, I dont
have any friends, at all, not even one. Its pitiful. I know. I guess its partially
because I am extremely smart and shy, but thats not my fault!
Okay, so maybe it is.
Let me back track a few more years. My parents were scientists and
hence extremely smart. I was bound to get the smart genes. When I was
twelve, they were killed in a car accident by a drunk driver. That was rough.
Really rough. I still dont talk about it.
Moving on.
I dont have any siblings. So that, I guess, makes me an orphan. The man
who killed them was named Richard Michaels. Remember that name. Its
important.
After my parents died, I had no one to live with. I didnt really have any
family. My aunt lives in Florida, but it was kind of really inconvenient for her
to move to California, in that she seriously didnt want to. Ive never really
liked her so thats fine. She can stay in Florida.
The police put the man in jail for like ten years. The wife of the Richard
Michaels felt horrible for what her husband did, so she kind of adopted me
I guess you could say. I dont know. Its confusing. Now this isnt legal, at

1
least I dont think it is, but she insisted, so I just live with them. Its a weird
situation, but Ive grown used to it. I know she pities me, but hey, I guess its
better than her not caring at all. I should not be living with the family that
killed mine. I know. Im crazy. Thats been established.
My aunt still has custody, but Mrs. Michaels takes care of me and her
three sons, Eddie, the oldest, Sam, the middle child, and Noah, the youngest.
I guess that you could call them my brothers.
I guess.

Just then, I heard really loud laughing coming from the popular table, as
people like to call it.
I looked up. I pushed a strand of my brown hair behind my ear and
swallowed deeply. I saw Lily leaning on Eddie and cracking up laughing,
loudly. She was always loud. Her and Eddie were dating, of course, because
that is the way it works in high school. The bitch gets the guy. I always found
myself staring at him.
Another strand of hair fell in my face and I pushed it behind my ear again.
Eddie had all the looks of a typical California guy. You know, the golden
blonde hair, the blue eyes, and the tall, tanned, muscular body? Not to
mention he was the class president, quarterback for the football team,
captain of the basketball team, and a straight A student. Yeah, he had it all.
I thought he was perfect in every way. And I lived with him. Win for me right?
Wrong.
He hated me, of course. I was basically the opposite of him in every way,
except for the straight A student part. I matched him on that. That he
couldnt deny. Not that he talks to me, because he doesnt. He doesnt even
acknowledge my presence.
He blamed me for his dads accident. I dont know why. I think he just
wanted to blame it on someone and I was an easy target. I was easy to pick
on. People hated me already. He just calls me his familys charity project so
that way people wont question why I live with him.
I hated that I loved him. I really did, but I, like every other girl in my
school had a major crush on him. Lily knows this. And because she knows
this, she feels the need to parade it around in front our faces, like in a look
what I have and you dont sort of way. But no one questions her, especially
not me. She could destroy me. I dont know how she hasnt already. She
scares me so much.
I liked to think that he only hates me because Lily tells him to. Ive been
trying to work up the courage to talk to him about it for a while now. I mean,
worst case scenario he never talks to me again, but he already practically

2
does that, so it wouldnt be that different.
I was going to talk to him.
I was going to do it.
The bell rang and startled me. I blinked a few times and swallowed deeply.
Well, I survived again. Somehow. I walked down the hall to my locker and
changed my books.
After lunch, I had math, chemistry, and then English. Honestly, I just
wanted to run out of here. It was the Friday before Spring Break. Nothing was
going to get done. I had already checked out.
I grabbed my math book and headed to class. I got there and sat down at
my desk. The class was really small, because well, lets face it, no one in the
school was smart enough to take a college calculus class. There were five
nerds that sat at the front, and then there was mewas I a nerd? Oh and
Eddie, even thought he doesnt like to acknowledge it. He doesnt really talk
to us. I mean, I guess I wouldnt if it would bring down my popularity level.
I tried to focus on the class. Of course my professor decided to be a jerk and
give us a test on the last day.
Of course.
Not that it was hard for me at all, but it was just annoying. Both Eddie and
I finished at the same time and turned in our tests. He looked away, letting
me turn mine in first. I did, not making eye contact. I shuffled back to my
seat, waiting for the bell to ring.
When it finally did, Eddie jumped up from his seat and ran out the door
like he did everyday. If you run fast into the hall, people wont see that youre
coming from a nerd class. I went to chemistry, my favorite class. It was really
easy for me, you know because my parents were scientists. Today we were
making ice cream, like that has anything to do with chemistry. Eddies best
friend Spencer Mills was in that class, although I dont know why because
hes not the smartest kid out there. But, he was entertaining, even though he
never talked to me either.
Oh well. Back to the ice cream.
I easily made mine and I cleaned up. The bell rang again. After that was
English, and well beating myself over the head with my book. After break, we
were continuing Shakespeare. Let me rephrase that. After break, I will be
dying.
Finally the bell rang and school was over for a week. I seriously needed a
break. Bad. I was so ready to relax and get away from everyone here. I was
going to spend all week reading and watching TV and literally doing nothing.
I think I was even going to lock my door. It was going to be so relaxing. I
headed back to my locker and emptied my books out. I zipped up my

3
backpack and walked towards home.
Our house was maybe a mile from school. It wasnt that far and it wasnt
too cold outside so I didnt mind. Now, in the winter, yes it was cold. So I
minded then. But like I said, it was spring.
I was walking down the sidewalk, minding my own business, when I heard
a car coming behind me. The black Jeep stopped at the stop sign ahead of
me. It was Eddies car. He knows that I wont tell on him for not giving me a
ride home. He was right. I would never tell his mom anything that could
make him hate me more, if that was even possible. I looked to the car.
Noah was in the back, playing with his action figures. I liked Noah the
best. He was eight years old and didnt care at all about what people thought
about me. I mean, why would he? He doesnt understand anything. Hes an
innocent, cute little eight-year-old who hasnt been corrupted by high school.
Thats why I liked him.
Sam was next to him. In terms of personality, he was the exact opposite
of Eddie. I guess in looks he was too. Sam had shaggy black hair and was
very lanky. Everything that comes out of his mouth is sarcastic. Maybe its
just that phase boys get in when theyre sixteen years old. I dont know how
his family puts up with him. Sometimes I think hes adopted.
Lily was in shotgun, of course. The princess. No explanation needed.
Well, there you go. Eddie turned up the radio and shot off towards home.
I sighed and kept walking. Story of my life.
I finally got home around four oclock. I walked up the driveway and
through the front door. Sam was on the couch playing video games. I walked
up to him.
Hey Sam.
He didnt take his eyes off the television. Sup.
I looked around. Wheres Eddie? I asked, though I knew I wouldnt get
an actual answer.
Oh you know, he decided to move to Utah and become a priest.
See what I mean? I nodded skeptically. No, I asked where Eddie was.
I just told you!
I raised my eyebrows.
Well, I dont know! He retorted. I was trying to make a joke, but I guess
I forgot your sense of humor sucks.
Wow thanks.
I dont know why you care anyway.
I shrugged. I dont. I was just curious.
Mmhmm, sure.
Sam. I groaned annoyed.

4
 Why are you still talking to me? You need to run upstairs and write in
your love journal that its, he paused to look at his phone, 4:03 PM and
Eddie is not home.
I rolled my eyes and pushed him. Shut up.
So you arent denying that the love journal exists? Interesting.
Goodbye, Sam. I said annoyed.
Sam loves to stir the pot. He loves creating tension and conflict. I dont
know why, but I can only handle so much of him. So, I let him go back to his
video games and went upstairs.
I walked down the hall, past Noahs room. I stopped and peeked in the
door. I saw that he had constructed these huge buildings out of pillows,
Lincoln logs, and tinker toys. He was running around with his action figures
and pretending that they were saving the world or something. I dont know,
but he looked like he was having fun. I smiled and shut the door.
I continued to walk down the hall until I got to my room. It was smaller
than the rest, but hey, it had a bed in it so I was happy. Mrs. Michaels said
that I could have whatever I wanted, but I always felt bad asking for things. I
didnt need much.
I put down my backpack next to my desk and walked over to the window.
I opened the blinds and walked over to my bed. I sat down. Heres where the
relaxing part come in. I was so excited.
I grabbed my laptop and sat back down. I heard a door slam and I figured
that Mrs. Michaels was home. I went back to surfing the web. I think that I
basically did nothing for 3 hours. It was pretty typical. I didnt mind.
I looked at the clock, closing the laptop and heading downstairs. Mrs.
Michaels was in the kitchen, making spaghetti. She turned around when she
heard me coming down the stairs.
Hi Mallory. How was school?
Oh, you know, horrible.
Umm, fine.
Oh, thats good. Well, dinners almost ready so can you set the table
please?
Yeah, sure thing.
I grabbed the silverware and the plates. Mrs. Michaels yelled that dinner
was ready, and I could hear Noah running down the stairs. Sam shut off the
television and walked into the kitchen. He sat down next to Noah and served
himself some spaghetti. Noah looked up at him.
Can I have some monkey brains please?
Noah likes to pretenda lot. Its cute, and we usually play along.
Sam raised an eyebrow. Dude, its spaghetti. Grow up.

5
 Well, most of us play along.
Noah cocked his head. Whats in the sauce?
Sam sighed deeply. Blood.
Noah looked to his mom. Mrs. Michaels looked at Sam. Sam, thats not
funny. Please give your brother extra monkey brains with the secret sauce.
Sam rolled his eyes and served Noah. Noah grinned. Secret sauce? Like
the kind that aliens eat?
His mom smiled. They dropped it off this morning.
Noahs mouth dropped open. Cool!
I smiled. He was really cute. I looked around and noticed that Eddie wasnt
here. Thats not good. She doesnt like it when he doesnt tell her where hes
going, or when hes late. Basically she thinks that he is a golden child. She
has no idea that hes with Lily the whole time. She doesnt like to have girls
around that much, especially not Lily. She really doesnt like Lily.
Then again, I dont know why anyone did.
Mrs. Michaels set down her fork. Wheres Eddie? She asked.
The door slammed and Eddie ran in. My heart fluttered for a second. I told
it to stop. His eyes widened when he saw her. Mrs. Michaels eyes narrowed.
Edward Allen Michaels, where have you been?
He started to stutter. Umm, I was at Spencers house helping him with a
project.
I dont think he realizes that its the Friday of spring break and I dont
think he can talk his way out of this one. I could tell his mom didnt believe
his story. She raised her eyebrow.
Well, youre late. Why didnt you call me?
He shrugged. Umm, I forgot? Im sorry, mom. It wont happen again.
You bet it wont because youre grounded.
But its spring break! He cried.
Exactly.
What am I supposed to do? Sit at home all day?
Well, now that you mention it, I have news for all of you.
Oh great. This is never good.
We all looked at her and I knew that we were all dreading what she was
going to say. Her ideas scared me sometimes. She smiled. I was on the
phone with Uncle Ernest today and he said that he would be delighted if you
all would come visit him.
Oh no, not Uncle Ernie. This is bad.
Sam dropped his fork. Wait, like stay with him? Mom, hes a whack job.
Samuel James, dont talk about your uncle that way. I talked to him and
we arranged for you kids to spend the week with him next week at his

6
vineyard.
All of our mouths dropped open. Eddie broke the silence. Mom, you cant
be serious. I dont want to spend my senior year spring break with that guy!
Well, you are grounded, so you dont really have a choice. Now, after
dinner, I want you all to go upstairs and pack up your things. Laptops stay
here as well as cell phones and video games. She said.
Mom! Eddie yelled. Thats like no technology! What are we supposed
to do for a whole week?
She looked to him. You are all going to spend a nice week together. There
are plenty of things to do. You could play a game, or read a book.
Or play with action figures! Noah cried excited.
His mom nodded and turned back to Eddie. Or play with action figures.
Now sit down and eat your dinner.
Eddie sighed and sat down on the other side of Mrs. Michaels. The rest of
dinner was full of silence. Eddie was mad, Sam was mad, I was feeling
awkward, and well Noah was too busy slurping down his monkey brains to
care. We finished as fast as possible and ran upstairs.
Eddie ran into his room and Sam followed him. Noah dropped one of his
action figures in the hall so he ran back quickly, grabbed it, and ran into
Eddies room. I followed them in and shut the door behind me. Eddie sat
down at his desk and Noah plopped down on his bed. Sam stood against the
doorframe. Eddie sighed deeply.
Okay, this is bad.
Noah looked up at him. Why? I like Uncle Ernie!
Eddie looked at him sympathetically. No, no Noah. Thats not what I
meant. I just dont think that its fun for spring break.
But, well be together. Ill get to hang out with you guys and you can play
with me!
Eddie smiled, but Sam slammed his head against the back of the
doorframe. This blows.
Eddie looked at Sam annoyed after Noah started to whimper. Why cant
you just keep your mouth shut for once?
Sam walked towards him. Man, whats your problem? You arent dad, you
know!
Eddie got in his face. Poor Noah was staring at them with huge eyes. I
stepped forward. Hey guys, chill out.
They both stopped. Eddie looked at me. Butt out, Mallory. This has
nothing to do with you.
I raised my eyebrow. Okay, fine, but at least stop because you are
freaking Noah out.

7
 His expression softened and he looked down at Noah. Oh, sorry Noah.
Sam stepped back. Yeah, sorry dude.
Noah shrugged. Its okay. Now come on, you have to help pick out which
toys we are bringing with us. He said standing up and grabbing Eddies
hand.
Eddie smiled. Yeah, lets go. He turned to the door and followed Noah
out.
I smiled at him and he rolled his eyes. Sam followed him with his hands in
his pockets. I sighed deeply and went to my room. I grabbed a suitcase from
under my bed and started to fill it with clothes. I grabbed some books and
threw them in. Well, thats it I guess. We werent allowed to bring our
laptops, cell phones, or iPods.
We were leaving in the morning and even though it only takes like an hour
to get there, I know it will feel like so much farther. I zipped up my suitcase
and walked out of my room. I stopped in front of Noahs room and peered in
the door. Eddie was sitting on the floor and Noah was next to him.
Noah, you cant take all of them. We have to leave some behind to, uh,
guard the house.
Noah stared at him. His mouth dropped open. Ah, youre right! Okay, Ill
put Captain Gallactica in Sams room, and then Ill put Raptor in the kitchen,
oh and I should put something in Mals room, just to be safe.
Eddie smiled. Im sure that Mallory would like that.
I smiled. I would like that.
They both whipped their heads around. The smile faded from Eddies
face, but Noah stood up and walked over to me. So Mal, do you want
Shockwave or the Fish King?
I grinned and looked down at him. Oh definitely the Fish King. Why dont
you go set him up now? I think that Ive got some extra tape and paper so
that you can make him a cool fort to spy from.
Noahs mouth dropped open. Really? He asked excited.
Yeah, but you have to go fast. Just in case they come early! I said
quickly.
Oh, youre right!
He ran out of the room, leaving me alone with Eddie. He stood up and got
a suitcase from the closet. He started to fill it with toys for Noah.
You know, beneath the whole hating my guts thing, he was actually a
decent guy. He treated Noah well. Not sure if it was guilt or what, but it was
nice to see that he wasnt a completely terrible person.
I walked over to him. Here, let me help. I said, grabbing clothes from
his dresser.

8
 Eddie looked at me weird. Its fine. I got it.
This is getting really old. I wanted to say something about it. I was going
to. Yes, I was. Okay, what do I say? No, I cant. Im nervous. I cant call him
out.
No, I have to.
I took a deep breath. Okay, look Eddie. I dont know why you still hate
me. Its been like five years since the accident. It wasnt my fault. You know
that. Everyone else doesnt really care, but you? You still treat me like
garbage. I know that Im unpopular to you, but you dont have to ignore me
all the time. I spewed out. I took a step back but tried to keep my eyes on
him.
He looked at me and exhaled. I dont, uh, I dont hate He paused. You
just dont get it. I cant explain it.
Well, thanks that was very helpful. I was shockedand proudat the
sass I was giving him.
Eddie looked down. Well you arent exactly helpful to my life either.
My eyes widened. Rude! Not sure what I was expecting though.
I swallowed. Fine, well can you at least pretend to not hate my guts? For
Noahs sake?
He sighed. Fine. For Noah.
By that time, we had packed up everything. Mrs. Michaels walked into
Noahs room and looked around confused.
Oh, wheres Noah? Its past his bed time.
Eddie looked around. Oh, uh, he is monster-proofing Mallorys room.
His mom looked at him curiously for a second, then nodded. Right. She
said, unsurprised.
She turned around and walked down the hall towards my room. I could
hear her start to talk to Noah and then I could here the sound of small feet
running down the hall. Noah ran into his room and jumped into the bed. He
put his head back against his pillow and stuck his arms up. His mom sighed
and pulled the covers up. He set down his arms. His mom smiled and kissed
him goodnight. She walked out of the room. I walked to Noah and rubbed his
blonde head. I kissed him on the forehead.
Night Noah.
Good night Mal! I cant wait for tomorrow! He grinned pulling up the
covers more.
Me neither. I said as I walked towards the door.
I stopped in the doorframe. I peeked back into the room. Eddie was sitting
next to Noah and holding his little hand. Noah was looking at him.
Do you really not want to go to Uncle Ernies?

9
 Eddie sighed deeply, pausing for a moment. No, uh, its not that I dont
want to go, its just that... His voice trailed, but then he nodded. I had
plans with Lily.
Oh. Noah said dejectedly.
Yeah.
Shes not going to be very happy with you.
Tell me about it. Eddie laughed.
Youre going to get yelled at.
Probably.
Shes not very nice, Eddie. Noah said quietly, looking down.
Eddie swallowed. What do you mean? Shes perfectly nice to you.
He shrugged. But shes mean to Mallory. He mumbled.
My eyes widened.
Eddie let go of his hand and stood up. She has her reasons I guess. But
its not nice to pry into other peoples business, Noah.
Noah nodded. Sorry. I just want everyone to get along next week so we
can play together and have fun.
Im sure everything will be fine. Dont worry about next week. Eddie
smiled. Good night.
Noah readjusted under the covers. Good night Eddie.
Eddie walked towards the door. I made a mad dash towards my room
hoping that he wouldnt see me. Thankfully he didnt. I heard his door shut. I
sat down on my bed.
My ears were ringing.
She has her reasons, I guess.
What did that mean! What just happened!
Just then, I realized that my room was different. I looked around. Oh yes,
definitely monster-proof. There were signs and pictures all over the door and
the walls, telling the monsters to keep out. I forced a smile. Then on my desk
there was a house made out of books and inside was the Fish King action
figure. Noah was amazing. He had always had a huge imagination, even back
when I met him and he was just three years old.
I grabbed my laptop and sat down on my bed again. I did nothing again
for like three hours. Sensing a pattern? I looked at the clock and saw that it
was almost midnight. I took a quick shower. I got ready for bed and set my
alarm for nine oclock. Joy. I crawled into bed and exhaled deeply.
My head was spinning. I was just now remembering the conversation I had
with Eddie, the one where he almost said he didnt hate me. I couldnt help
but smile.

10
I woke up the next morning to my alarm clock beeping. I pushed the snooze
button like seven times and finally rolled out of bed. I pulled on my jeans and
my jacket. I slipped on my flip-flops and walked to the bathroom. I brushed
my teeth and put a headband in my hair. I walked back to my room, grabbing
my bags and heading downstairs. I set them down by the door and walked
into the kitchen. Mrs. Michaels was making oatmeal. She turned when she
saw me.
Good morning Mal, oatmeal? She asked.
Morning, thanks. I said as I grabbed a bowl.
She gave me some and I sat down at the table. She then cleaned up and
ran upstairs to get Noah ready. A few minutes passed and I could hear
someone coming downstairs. I sighed deeply when I saw that it was Eddie.
Well, maybe now he would talk to me.
He looked at me for a second and then grabbed some oatmeal. He sat
down at the other end of the table. Well here we go. I am going to talk to
him. Im going to do it. He doesnt hate me. Im going to do it.
I turned to him. Morning!
He looked up at me. Umm, hi.
How are you?
Fine.
Wow, this was going horribly.
Thats good. Im doing well too. Hows your oatmeal? I asked.
He rolled his eyes and looked at me. What is your deal?
I raised an eyebrow. Im just being friendly.
Just because we, I He exhaled. We arent like friends now or
anything. He said, like it was obvious.
I nodded. Sorry.
We were silent. I focused on my oatmeal.
Well, that was great. Just great. I was tired of being treated like this.
My grip on my spoon tightened. Why doesnt Lily like me? I asked
quietlyeven though I already knew the answer.
His eyes widened and his mouth dropped open. He paused for a minute,
clearly flustered. You know, its rude to eavesdrop!
Its also rude to make a person completely hate their entire existence. I
mumbled.
He sighed.
She made it pretty obvious from day one that she hates me, even though
Ive done nothing wrong.
I know. He replied, exhaling deeply.
I looked down. Itd be nice to know why.

11
 I saw him shake his head out of the corner of my eye. I dont think
anyone knows why she does.
I bit my lip. Great.
It probably has something to do with the fact that you live in my house
and arent related to me in some way.
I looked up, trying to hide my surprise. Shes jealous.
He nodded. Well, I was quite the catch in sixth grade. He smiled.
I forced a smile. So you havent talk to me in six years because she was
afraid that you would like me better than her.
He nodded.
I swallowed. And it didnt bother you at all that you were treating me like
crap all this time?
He shrugged. Gotta keep the girlfriend happy.
I looked down. Wow.
He was silent for a second. That sounded really mean.
Mmhmm.
Sorry, I guess.
Its okay. I said quietly.
We paused for a moment. I looked up at him. So you would have talked
to me if you werent dating her? I asked.
He looked at me and exhaled. Maybe. He said, looking out the window.
I shrugged. Well youre missing out. Maybe Im pretty cool. I said
smugly.
Maybe you are. He smiled.
We were silent. He looked away from me quickly and pulled out his phone.
He started to text and ignored me. I honestly couldnt believe that we had
that conversation. My heart was racing.
Just then, Noah walked into the kitchen. Hello! He said.
Eddie and I both looked at him. Hey Noah! We both said at the same
time, relieved.
Noah grabbed his bowl of oatmeal and sat down next to Eddie. He started
to talk about what we were going to do this weekend. We had to keep
reminding him to eat his oatmeal because he would get so excited and
seriously just talk about nothing for five minutes. Finally, he finished. Mrs.
Michaels cleaned up our bowls.
Okay guys lets go. Wheres Sam?
Eddie sighed. Ill get him.
He ran upstairs and returned a few minutes later. Umm, well I just woke
his lazy butt up, so its going to be a few minutes.
His mom sighed and stormed upstairs to talk to Sam. She came back ten

12
minutes later with a sleepy-looking Sam stumbling behind her. He wasnt a
morning personlets just leave it at that.
She turned to us. Okay, I want iPods, cell phones, video games, and
laptops on the kitchen counter. Anything with a battery.
Sam raised his eyebrows. Guess I should leave behind my toothbrush
then. He shot back. Looks like Ill be getting some cavities.
Her eyes narrowed and she pointed upstairs.
Sam held his hands up in surrender and walked upstairs. We followed. We
brought down our electronics and set them on the table. She nodded in
satisfaction and grabbed the keys. We grabbed our bags and headed to the
garage. Eddie sat in the front seat and we all sat in the back.
It was seriously the worst car ride ever. There was nothing to do.
Honestly, nothing. So boring! The only thing worse than a bored eighteen-
year-old with nothing to do is a bored eight-year-old with nothing to do. Noah
in confined spaces is not a good idea. He gets very hyper.
Thankfully it was less than a two-hour drive, and finally around noon we
made it to the vineyard. I looked out the window as we drove up the road.
There were grapes as far as I could see and when we emerged into a clearing
I saw the mansion. I mean it was huge. I had never been here before but I
had heard stories.
Uncle Ernest was waiting for us when we pulled up in front. If I had to
describe what he looked, I would say the words mad scientist sum him up
perfectly. His hair was crazy and all over the place. He had on a mismatched
buttoned Hawaiian shirt and was wearing loafers with shorts and tall socks.
His glasses were half moon shaped. He was leaning against his cane,
although I dont remember him ever having a limp. Im not really sure how
him and Mrs. Michaels have the same parents.
Mrs. Michaels stopped the car and we all got out. He held his arms out
and smiled. Ella.
She hugged him. Hi Ernie.
He let go of her and looked at us. Children. He smiled. Its been quite
some time.
We all nodded.
Well Ive got quite a fun week planned for us! Full of activities! From sun
up to sun down! He said flashing another smile and pointing his cane to the
sky.
Great.
Mrs. Michaels nodded. Okay well, I will see you all in a week! Have fun!
Noah hugged her. Bye mommy!
We all said goodbye and she finally left. We waved as she drove away.

13
Uncle Ernie turned to us as soon as she was out of sight.
Okay, listen up. Im just going to go over a few rules before I leave. He
said quickly.
We all looked at him.
One: I work from 9 until 9 over there processing grapes and making
wine. He said pointing to a building on the next hill. I am not to be
disturbed, unless it is extremely urgent, in which case you can dial speed dial
number one on the phones in the house. Two: You are free to explore as you
wish, but please do not break anything. Three: the wine cellar in the
basement is off limits. You are never to under any circumstances, enter the
cellar. Four: I have a maid who does all the cooking and cleaning. Her name
is Louise, and well she doesnt really like children so if you would like your
bed made, I would suggest leaving her alone. Five: On request from your
mother, all technology has been removed from the house except for the
landline, so I would advise not trying to pull anything. Six: If your mother
asks, we had a lovely time together and got to know each other very well.
Got it?
We all nodded quickly.
Good, now if you will excuse me, those grapes arent going to crush
themselves.
He walked towards his golf cart and turned the key. He waved at us with
his cane and sped off towards the building leaving us alone.
We all looked at each other and Sam broke the silence. Well, I was right.
This blows.
Eddie looked at him. Are you kidding? At least, we dont have to spend
time with him. We can do whatever we want.
Yeah, but didnt you hear him? No technology. I thought for sure that we
could find a computer in that mansion of his somewhere. Now, what are we
supposed to do?
Well, Noah. Eddie said as he turned to Noah. Lets go find a place to set
up your new fort.
I smiled. Noah looked up at him. Yeah! Lets go! He said as he grabbed
his hand and ran towards the door.
I followed them and Sam sighed deeply but followed. We got inside and
stared in awe. This place was huge. There was a living room with
chandeliers, a gigantic kitchen with wine everywhere, and a huge patio with
a pool and everything. We walked through the kitchen and into the family
room. We ran upstairs and saw that there was a bedroom for each of us. We
set our stuff down inside them and ran back downstairs. We walked into the
family room and down into the basement, which was full of wine crates.

14
Considering the fact that none of us were allowed to drink wine, we decided
to stay upstairs. And besides, the wine cellar was down there. We werent
allowed down there.
Well, this doesnt sound too bad. Maybe we could survive a whole week.
The pool will help a lot.

We spent the first few days hanging out at the pool and exploring the
vineyard. We even built Noah a fort.
Everyday, Eddie would kind of talk to me more and more. First, it was
just acknowledging my presence, then it was asking how I was doing, and
then he even went as far as to include me in things.
Gasp!
I didnt know why but I wasnt complaining. Ever since our talk in the
kitchen on Saturday morning hes been nicer. A lot nicer. I really didnt
understand, but I loved it. He was actually fun to talk to. I mean I guess I
knew he would be, but you know what I mean. I liked him. A lot.
Then, Thursday happened.
We left up the fort, just in case Noah wanted to play with it again. After
lunch, it was raining so I decided to read a book. I went upstairs and grabbed
a book from my room. I went back downstairs. Sam was unsuccessfully
taking a nap on the floor. He kept flopping around and complaining under his
breath but when we told him to just go upstairs and sleep in his bed, he
grumbled about being lazy and rolled over. Eddie was sitting in the chair
reading a sports magazine. I sat down on the couch and attempted to read
my book. Noah was on the floor next to Sam, and he was playing with his
action figures, very loudly. It was kind of distracting, to all of us, but we let
him play because he was having fun. Basically, everything we did revolved
around him.
Sam finally sat up and turned to him. Dude, shut up, or leave.
Noah stopped playing and looked up at him. Oh, sorry. He said
innocently.
Eddie stopped reading. Sam!
Sam looked at him. What? Its annoying.
Eddie rolled his eyes and looked back to Noah. Noah, its fine. Go ahead
and keep playing.
Noah shrugged and went back to playing. After another minute, he got up
and started to run around and play. He ran towards the basement door, said
something about the Underworld, and ran downstairs. Sam sighed deeply.
Finally, some peace and quiet.
Eddie shut his magazine. Do you always have to act like that in front of

15
him? Hes just a kid.
Sam scrunched his eyebrows. Dude, he needs to grow up and get out of
fantasy land.
I shut my book. Sam, you should be nicer to him, and maybe you could
play along sometimes? Im sure that he would like that. I said slowly.
Sam raised an eyebrow. Whoa, butt out Mal. This has nothing to do with
you. You arent exactly part of this family.
My mouth dropped open. Umm, I...
Eddie looked down at Sam. Why would you say something like that?
Oh, like you feel any different. Youve basically ignored her for the past
six years.
Thats, Eddie paused. Thats, well, partially true I guess, but at least
now I am trying to change, unlike you.
I tried to hold back a smile.
Sam rolled his eyes. Oh yeah just because youve decided to start talking
to her four days ago in a house where we are completely cut off from
everyone in the outside world that could make fun of you for talking to her.
Good job. You are practically a brand new person. He said annoyed.
Sam, just shut up.
Whatever. He said as he tried to fall back asleep.
Eddie sighed and went back to reading his magazine. I swallowed and
looked back down to my book.
Just then, I heard the stomping of feet coming up from the basement.
Noah ran to us, out of breath, waving his arms. Its okay! Im back! Dont
worry!
I looked at him confused. Umm, okay?
But didnt you wonder where I was for so long?
Eddie looked at him. What are you talking about? He asked.
Ive been gone for like three hours!
Sam sat up and looked confused. Eddie and I looked at each other and
then at the clock on the wall. Yeah, I dont know what this kid is talking
about. I looked down at Noah.
Noah, its been like five minutes. What are you talking about? I asked.
Noah looked at us. But, but, but I was gone for so long! I met this faun,
you know like the guy with goat legs, named Mr. Underwood and he invited
me over for some cookies, so I went over and now were friends.
Sam stopped him. I dont know what you are talking about. You must
have a pretty big imagination. He said lying back down. He shot Eddie a
glare.
Noah looked at him like he was crazy. No, Sam. It was real! I swear!

16
 Eddie stopped him. Noah, are you saying that there is a strange man in
the basement?
Yeah, thats what I was beginning to wonder.
No! I was in the basement exploring and then I went down into the wine
cellar...
Eddie stopped him. Ernest told us to stay out of the wine cellar.
But Eddie, you dont understand!
No, Noah.
I know why he doesnt want us down there.
Eddie sighed. Why?
Because! When I went down there, I walked into a cave. I could see light
at the other end so I walked towards it and I saw snow. I was in a forest
Eddie! In the wine cellar! Then, Mr. Underwood was just walking along and he
saw me. He looked at me weird at first like hed never seen someone like me
before. I introduced myself and then he invited me over. We talked for a
long time. Apparently, he lives in Celestia, but Id never heard of it. He said
that its bad though because this mean witch lady, he said her name was
Bruhara or something, is ruling it with her son. Shes really mean and makes
it be winter all the time, but like with out Christmas. Its horrible! He
gasped.
Eddie and I exchanged looks. I could tell that we were both thinking the
same thing. Noah has outdone himself this time. I mean, a land called
Celestia with mythical creatures and witches? Thats not possible.
I turned to Noah. Are you sure that you werent just dreaming or
something?
Noah looked at me helplessly. No, I swear. Here let me show you. Come
on! He said, motioning for us to come with him to the basement.
Eddie sighed deeply. Alright. Show us where you found the entrance to
what was it called?
Celestia. Noah stated.
Right. Lets go see.
He got up and kicked Sam. Come on Sam. Lets go.
Sam rolled his eyes. You cant be serious.
Lets go. Eddie said through gritted teeth.
Sam sighed deeply and got up. I got up too and followed Noah down to
the basement. He seemed really excited when we got to the bottom of the
steps.
Okay, its right over here! He said, walking towards the bar by the
stairs.
I didnt see a door anywhere.

17
 Eddie looked around. What are you talking about?
Its down here. He said, pointing at the cellar.
Sam sighed deeply. You have got to be kidding me.
Thats exactly what I was thinking. Noah walked behind the bar and pulled
open the hatch in the floor. A creaky staircase extended down to darkness.
I turned to Noah. You went down there? By yourself?
Noah nodded. Yep, come on!
Eddie stopped him. Whoa, whoa. Noah that was dangerous. Did you
have like a flashlight or something?
Ohyeah, but I think I left it in Mr. Underwoods house. He said slowly.
Sam sighed. Fantastic.
Eddies eyes narrowed and he looked at him annoyed. I sighed. Well,
maybe Uncle Ernie has another one somewhere.
Eddie nodded. Yeah, lets look.
We got up and started to open drawers in the bar. Sure enough there was
a whole drawer full. I was confused. Why did he have so many flashlights? I
handed one to Eddie and grabbed one for myself. We walked back over to
the cellar and opened up the hatch again. Seriously?
Noah seemed excited and ran down the stairs like it was nothing. The rest
of us looked at each other. Eddie sighed, clicked on his flashlight, and called
to Noah.
Hey, Noah, wait! Dont go too far. He followed him down the stairs and
into the darkness.
Sam looked up at me annoyed. Are we seriously doing this?
Yes. Now go.
You know Ernest said that we werent allowed down here.
And since when do you follow the rules? I shot back.
He nodded once. Good point. He said walking down the stairs.
I walked towards the stairs and took a deep breath. Well, here goes
nothing. I headed down the stairs with my flashlight in front of me. Finally I
made it to the bottom and managed to avoid all the spider webs. They were
all waiting for me at the bottom.
When I got there, Noah ran off into the darkness, screaming Mr.
Underwoods name. The rest of us followed behind slowly, with our
flashlights in front of us. We walked for a few seconds, until we could see
Noah ahead of us.
He was standing there waiting for us. Are you guys coming? Its right up
here. He cried happily. He looked back to us. Now when we get into the
forest, make sure to stay on the little path. I got lost in the trees and fell into
a pile of snow! Thankfully Mr. Underwoods fire warmed me up and dried my

18
clothes off. He stopped talking suddenly and looked ahead.
Eddie stepped in front of him and shined the flashlight. I walked up next to
him and stopped. I cocked my head. Yeah there was nothing there.
Sam was on the other side of me. What is this? Some kind of joke? There
is nothing here but a wall!
Noah ran forward. No! No! I swear there was something here!
Eddie stepped forward and tapped on the wall. Sorry Noah, but theres
nothing here. I dont know what you are talking about.
But, but you have to believe me! There was a cave!
Sorry bud. Theres nothing here.
Noah looked around urgently and then his eyes fell on me. But, but Mal
you believe me right?
Crap.
I looked down into his big eyes. Im sorry Noah, but theres nothing but a
wall. I dont see a cave anywhere.
He started to whimper. But, there was! You have to believe me!
Sam looked at him. Noah, let it go. Whatever little fantasyland you think
you were in doesnt exist in the real world. Deal with it.
Noah started to cry and ran towards the stairs. Eddie sighed deeply and
smacked Sam. Way to go. You couldnt have let him down easy could you?
What? He needs to grow up.
Sam, hes eight.
Whatever. Sam said as he started to walk towards stairs. I started to
walk with him, but Eddie grabbed my arm.
Hey Mallory, we are doing the right thing right?
I sighed. I mean, I dont know. He seemed so sure of himself, but theres
nothing here. We checked. Theres nothing.
Yeah, I guess, but shouldnt we have played along or something?
Eddie, I dont know. This time it seemed different. He thought that it
really existed. I guess well just have to wait it out. Im sure that hell get
over it eventually.
I just feel bad, you know? He said, his voice trailing.
Why? I mean we came down into the cellar like he asked. We walked with
him down here, playing along. I dont know what else we are supposed to
do.
He sighed. I meant in general.
In general?
He nodded. Yeah, I feel bad in general.
For Noah?
He nodded again.

19
 Why? I asked.
Can you humor me for like five seconds without judging me or thinking
that it means anything?
I bit back a smile. Talk to me.
Well, its just that he didnt get to grow up with dad so I feel like I have to
act like him. But then things like this happen and he runs off crying and I just
feel awful.
Eddie, its not your responsibility. You have to be his brother. I said.
Yeah, I guess. He paused.
Come on, go talk to him and see how hes feeling. Try to be
understanding. I said, forcing another smile. I started to walk for the steps.
Mallory? He asked suddenly, grabbing my arm.
Yes? I asked, looking back at him through the hollow light of the
flashlight.
He forced a smile. I, umm, Im sorry about the whole blaming you for
my dad being in prison thing. I dont know why I blamed you. You werent
exactly driving the car.
I looked down and smiled. Thanks Eddie.
Youre welcome.
And I was 12. I couldnt exactly drive a car. I added.
Yeah, I know. He laughed.
I mean I dont know what you were doing when you were twelve but... I
laughed.
Not imagining myself in this situation thats for sure.
Me neither.
He swallowed. I should have apologized a long time ago. Im sorry.
Better late than never.
And, I, I cant apologize for Lily, but I know she treats you like crap and
thats not cool. He stuttered.
I shrugged. Its okay. Come on.
He followed me up the stairs. I tried to maintain my composure and not
freak out like a teenage girl.
We got into the bar area and shut the cellar behind us. We walked up the
stairs and into the family room. Sam was lying on the couch and appeared to
be asleep. We walked passed him and upstairs. Eddie knocked on Noahs
door.
I could hear a muffled cry. What?
Eddie paused for a second. Noah, can we come in? He asked slowly.
No! This room is for believers only.
He sighed. Okay, well, come downstairs when you want to make another

20
fort.
No!
Oh, alright. Eddie said as he stepped back from the door. He shrugged
at me. Well, I tried.
I sighed. Not very hard. I said under my breath.
He raised an eyebrow. Excuse me?
Nothing. Lets go. I said as I forced a small smile.
Thats what I thought you said.
We walked downstairs and into the family room. Sam had taken over the
whole couch. Eddie sat down in the chair and went back to his magazine. I
sat in the other chair and grabbed my book. I looked at the clock. It was
3:30. Lets see how long Noah would last before coming downstairs. I
opened my book and began reading. A few hours passed. I could hear the
sound of feet coming down the stairs. Eddie looked up from his magazine.
Noah walked passed us to the basement.
Hey, Noah. Where are you going?
None of your business.
Oh, umm okay. Dinners in an hour.
Fine.
He walked downstairs. Eddie looked at me. Should we go check on him?
I sighed. Its fine, I guess. Hes probably just going to play in the
basement.
Eddie nodded and went back to reading. A few minutes later, Sam woke
up. He sat up and rubbed his eyes. He yawned. Mmm, what time is it?
I looked at the clock. 5:30.
He put his feet on the table. Great.
Eddie rolled his eyes.
Just then, I heard footsteps coming up from the basement. Great.
Hopefully Noah has cooled off a little. He walked into the family room and
stopped in front of us. He had his hand behind his back. Eddie looked at him
curiously.
Hey Noah. Whatcha got there?
Noahs expression hardened. Nothing.
He walked over to Sam and pulled his hand out from behind his back. It
looked like he was holding a ball. He threw it at Sam and it exploded on his
chest. Sams eyes widened. He looked at us.
Uh, he just threw a snowball at me? He said confused.
We whipped our heads towards Noah. What! Noah got in Sams face. Mr.
Underwood thinks youre stupid. He said as he ran back up the upstairs.
Oh my god. Where did he get that snowball? Its April, in California! This

21
is super weird. Theres no way.
Sam was just sitting there with his arms out. He just threw a snowball at
me! Eddie where did he get a snowball?
Eddie seemed just as confused as we were. I have no idea.
Sam stood up. Umm, well, okay, Im going to go change my shirt while
you two figure it out. He paused. Wheres Scooby Doo when you need
him? I rolled my eyes. He smirked and turned around. But, I guess Fred
and Daphne will do.
Eddie put down the magazine. Really Sam?
Hey, it looks like you forgot your ascot. Ill go grab it for you. He said as
he walked up the stairs.
Okay, maybe it was a little funny. I waited until I could hear his door shut,
and then I got up and sat down on the couch next to Eddie.
What is going on?
Eddie shook his head. I have no idea. Where did he get that snowball?
Umm, does Uncle Ernie have like an ice grinder or something?
Probably, but dont you think that we would have heard him? He asked.
I nodded. Yeah, but where else would he have gotten it?
Eddie exhaled. Celestia? He said it was all snowy.
You cant honestly think that this place exists. Its not possible. I said.
What other option is there? He said annoyed.
I, I dont know. This makes no sense. I paused and sighed. We could
ask Uncle Ernie?
He would think that were crazy.
Eddie, I think that were crazy. We have to figure this out.
Eddie sighed deeply. Yeah, I guess so. Well ask him when he gets back.
Just then, I could hear someone open the door. I turned around and saw
that it was Louise, come to fix dinner. We said hi but she just grunted. I tried
to go back to reading but I couldnt focus. Where did he get that snowball?
Could this place really exist? It was impossible. I have no idea.
After dinner, we tried to get Noah to forgive us by making him an even
bigger fort. It worked for like 10 minutes until he kicked us out. He put a sign
on the door that said for Celestians only. Sam sat down on the couch
again. He pulled out a magazine and started to read it. I looked up at the
clock. We had about an hour until Uncle Ernie was due home. Well, lets try
that book again. I sat down in the chair and tried to read. Eddie sat down
next to Sam and grabbed another magazine.
The whole time, I could hear Noah playing with his action figures, except
for now he gave them new names. Someone was Mr. Underwood, someone
else was the Bruhara, another person was Bernard, and then there was

22
someone named Deonesus. I had no idea, but he sounded like he was
having fun so I didnt argue. I just didnt want him to be sad.
After a while, I could hear the door slam and I looked up. Uncle Ernie
walked through the foyer and into his room. Hello children! He said on his
way.
Eddie and I looked at each other. Eddie stood up. Oh, umm Uncle Ernie,
wait! Can we talk to you for a minute?
In the library, sure. I have some reading to do.
Eddie and I followed him in and he shut the door. He motioned for us to sit
on the couch so we did and he sat across from us. He leaned forward. Okay,
talk.
Eddie sighed. Umm, its Noah. He thinks that hes found a magical land
in the wine cellar downstairs.
The color drained from his face. Really? What was it like? He asked
interested.
Umm, I dont know. All we found was a wall. There was no land.
I interjected. Wait, Uncle Ernie. You dont believe him, do you?
He looked at us like we were crazy. Dont you?
Eddie looked at him. Well, no. There was nothing there. He said slowly.
Did you look hard enough?
What do you mean?
You need to be more open to these things. It does a person good to get
in touch with their childhood.
I looked at him weird. Uncle Ernie, you say that like this place really
exists. Its impossible. There was a wall.
A wall on your mind.
What?
Nothing. Now, children if you will excuse me, I have some work to do.
He said motioning to the door.
Eddie and I got up confused and walked out the door.
Eddie turned to me after he shut the door. That was really weird.
I know.
Well, should we believe him?
I have no idea. I mean we saw the wall. There was nothing there.
Yeah, I guess. He said slowly.
Eddie he wasnt even mad at us for going into the wine cellar.
Yeah that was weird too.
Its almost like he was excited that we did.
When he specifically told us not to. Eddie added.
I nodded. Exactly.

23
 Weird. He said as his voice trailed.
We walked over to the couch and sat back down. Noah was still playing in
his fort and Sam was reading the magazine. I picked up my book, and in a
few minutes I finished it. It was like 10 oclock. Since Mrs. Michaels wasnt
here and Uncle Ernie didnt really care, we let Noah stay up late with us.
Everything was quiet.

All of a sudden, there was this huge crash. We all whipped our heads around
and stood up. The backyard living room window was shattered and there was
a man, covered in black, standing in the other room. Were we being robbed?
My eyes widened and I turned to look at Eddie. The man walked towards the
kitchen. Oh god what was happening? Oh god.
We have to get out of here! I whispered.
Eddie walked back and grabbed one of the metal fire pokers from the
fireplace. He walked back towards us.
No, its okay.
Really? He was going to fight?
I raised my eyebrows. Thats not going to do us much good if he has a
gun. I hissed.
Eddie sighed and set down the poker. He grabbed Noah, who had peeked
his head out to see what the crash was.
Sam started to pace. If he finds us, were dead.
Eddie nodded. Then, lets go.
Where? I whispered urgently.
Noah pushed free from Eddie. Come with me! This way! He said excited.
He ran towards the basement. We all stopped and looked at each other.
Eddie sighed, peered around to see where the robber was and rushed down
the stairs. Sam sighed, but followed him. I ran after them. It was kind of
funny, you know. Here were these three guys, running away from a robber.
But I didnt argue because I was running too.
By the time that I got there, Noah had already pulled open the cellar
hatch. Oh, you have got to be kidding me. Seriously?
Come on! In here!
Sam sighed. Dude, you are so weird. He said, but he started to walk
down the stairs.
Noah looked at us hopefully.
Eddie sighed. Go.
Noah nodded and ran down the stairs. Eddie turned to me. Well, I guess
the guy wont find us if were hiding in a cellar, right?
Yeah, why not.

24
 I started to walk down the stairs and Eddie followed me, closing the hatch
behind him. Well, now it was completely dark. I couldnt see a thing. I felt
Eddies hand slip into mine. I kept staring forward. I bit my lip to hold back
my smile, this time grateful for the darkness. We started to walk. After a few
seconds, I could see a light ahead.
Wait a light?
Eddie, do you see that? I asked quietly.
Umm, yeah. Where is that light coming from?
I have no idea.
We continued to walk until all of a sudden we werent in the cellar
anymore. Was that snow? My bare feet felt cold. I looked down and saw that
we were walking on snow now. Oh, you have got to be kidding me. Thats
impossible.
Eddies voice was a whisper. No freaking way.
We were in a forest. This is impossible. There cant be a forest in the
basement. What is going on?
We emerged into a clearing. It was snowing. I hate that it made sense, but
it did. Sam was in front of us and looked very confused. Noah turned around
and smirked at us.
I told you so.
Eddie dropped my hand. He looked around. Noah, this is crazy. You have
to understand why we didnt believe you.
Yeah, I guess so.
Well, how about this? Well do anything you want. We can explore for a
little while and then we should check to see if the man is gone. Deal?
No.
What? Eddie asked, scrunching his eyebrows.
Last time, I was in here for three hours but it was only like 5 minutes out
there. We are going to have to stay here for a while.
Oh, I guess youre right. Well what do you want to do?
Well, I would really like for you all to meet Mr. Underwood. He makes
great cookies!
Okay then, lets go.
Sam stopped him. Dude, you cant be serious.
Eddie raised his eyebrow. Oh, by the way, I do believe that you owe Noah
an apology.
For what? Not believing him? Youre crazy.
Do it.
Fine. Noah, I am so completely and totally sorry for not believing that a
fantasy land existed in the wine cellar.

25
 Noah looked up at him and shrugged. Thats okay. I dont like the
sarcasm but I forgive you. Now lets go!
I turned to them, my feet numb. Wait, I need to go grab shoes. Ill be
back in a second.
I turned and forced myself to walk towards the cellar. They all ran towards
me and said no at the same time.
I turned. Its fine. Ill be right back.
Eddie grabbed my arm. Dont you understand? You cant leave! What if
you cant get back in? Youll be stuck up there with that guy!
Well what am I supposed to do then? I cant exactly walk on the snow in
my bare feet. I argued.
Noah paused for a second. Eddie can carry you!
I raised an eyebrow and turned to Eddie. He was doing the same thing to
me. Sam started to laugh. Aw, this ought to be good.
Noah gave him a dirty look and turned back to us. Come on, Eddie.
Eddie sighed deeply. How far away is Underwoods house? He groaned.
Its down this path a little way. You take a left past the grape vine and
then you take that path for a little while.
I squinted and saw that there was a grape vine in the distance. It must be
like a marker or something because I didnt see any other vines. Hopefully
we will be able to find our way back. Eddie took a deep breath.
Fine. Lets go. He said as he walked over to me. He scooped me up in
his arms and started to walk to the grape vine.
I tried to remain calm, even though a part of me was dying inside.
After a few seconds, Eddie sighed. If Lily knew that I was doing this
I rolled my eyes. Will you calm down?
Sam interjected. Shes not going to find out, unless of course you plan on
telling her about this lovely fantasy adventure, in which case she will think
that youre crazy and probably end up dumping you in the end anyway.
Gee, thanks Sam. Eddie said sarcastically.
We were silent. Sam sighed. Why would someone rob Uncle Ernies
house? I mean he lives in the middle of nowhere.
I sighed. I have no idea.
Maybe he has money hidden, or gold, or hot models! Sam said excited.
I am so looking when we get back.
Eddie rolled his eyes and I forced a small smile. I still cant believe that
you guys didnt just beat the guy up in the first place.
Sams mouth dropped open. Excuse me! Stereotype! You are just
assuming that if there is ever trouble, the guy has to swoop in and beat up
the villain. Stereotype!

26
 I rolled my eyes.
Eddie sighed. I probably would have if Noah hadnt had been there.
Sam sighed deeply. Exhibit A, stereotypical guy.
Well, Im sorry if I dont believe in running away from fights.
But you did.
That, that was because
He cut him off. Didnt you want to show Mal how strong and protective
you were? He asked sarcastically.
I tried not to laugh. Eddies expression hardened. Sam. He said taking a
step towards him.
Sam held his hands up. Okay, okay, or you wanted to protect me, I
understand.
Eddie rolled his eyes and I started to laugh. Noah was running in front of
and kept turning back to tell us to hurry. I honestly still could not believe that
we were here. I was expecting to wake up from the dream soon.
We continued to walk for like twenty minutes. Let me just say this, it was
cold. We were all in like t-shirts and jeans. Sams teeth started to chatter.
Dude, does this Underwood guy have like coats or something? He
asked.
Noah shrugged. I dont know. I think so.
I interrupted. What about shoes?
Sam looked at me like I was an idiot. Hes a goat!
I rolled my eyes. I know, Sam.
Noah stopped dead in his tracks suddenly. We almost ran into him. We
came to the side of a rock formation. There was a door in front of us. It was
cracked ajar. Well, thats not good. Noah started to run towards the door,
screaming Mr. Underwoods name.
Eddie set me down and ran after him. Hey, Noah, wait!
Sam and I ran behind him. Noah ran through the door and we followed.
We got inside and the whole place was a mess. The room was dark. Chairs
were thrown around, plates were broken, and tapestries were ripped. Well
Im guessing whatever happened wasnt good. The faun was nowhere to be
found.
Noah was running around and looking for him. Mr. Underwood? Where
are you?
Sam started to look in closets. He came back into the main room a few
minutes later. Umm, well I found this. He said holding up a very small fur
coat. It must be like for a dwarf or something. Oh, here Noah. He smirked.
Perfect size.
Noah frowned. Hey!

27
 We put the coat on him. He looked like a marshmallow. All of a sudden, he
ran over to the couch. He pushed off all the pillows and blankets. He
emerged a second later holding a pair of flip-flops.
Here Mal, these are yours. I brought them last time to show Mr.
Underwood, but I guess that I forgot them. He said handing them to me.
I took them from him and put them on. Well it wasnt much better but
whatever. I couldnt feel my feet anyway. Eddie grabbed the blanket from the
couch and handed it to me. I smiled and wrapped it around my shoulders.
Noah gasped in the distance and we all whipped our heads around. He
was standing next to the fireplace and had a piece of paper in his hands. He
turned to us. Look at this! He said as we all ran over.
Eddie grabbed the paper and started to read it. The Former occupant of
this home, the Faun Underwood, is under arrest on a charge of High Treason
against her imperial Majesty and Sorceress Bruhara, Queen of all Celestia,
also to comforting her said Majestys enemies, harboring spies and
fraternizing with Humans, signed Bernard, Captain of the Secret Police,
Prince of Celestia, Son to the Sorceress, Long live the Queen.
Noahs eyes widened. He gulped. Im the human!
Eddie set down the paper. Noah, its okay. Im sure that you didnt mean
to do this.
Noah started to whimper. This is all my fault. We have to go help him.
I sighed deeply. Noah, this is out of our hands. We cant do anything.
But, but we could go to the police!
Sam looked at him like he was an idiot. Dude, these are the police. He
said, pointing at the paper.
Oh my god, this was bad.
We heard a creaking coming from the doorway. We all whipped our heads
around. There was a flash of hair, but then it was gone. Someone was
watching us. We all stood there frozen.
Sam broke the silence. Umm, did you guys see that too? Or was it just
me?
Noah got excited. Maybe its Mr. Underwood!
Doubt it.
Noah was already running towards the door. Eddie ran after him. I
followed him and Sam followed me slowly. We made it outside and Noah was
just standing there looking around. We ran towards him and looked around. I
looked through the snowy pine trees but I couldnt see anyone. There was no
one there. Eddie knelt down next to Noah.
Noah, you have to stop doing that. We dont want you to get hurt.
Noah looked at him. But, but I thought that it was Mr. Underwood.

28
 Dont worry. Well find him.
Sam sighed. Man, are we seriously going to find this dude? He groaned.
Eddie looked at him. Its the least that we can do. Noah feels like its his
fault. We have to find him.
Noah looked up at Sam. We have to find him.
Sam sighed very deeply. Ugh, fine. Where do we start?
All of a sudden, there was a voice behind us. You can start by explaining
what you are doing here.
We all whipped our heads around, but there was no one there. I looked
through the trees again but I couldnt see anything. Eddie stood up and
pulled Noah towards him. Whos there? He asked.
I should be asking you the same question. The voice said angrily.
We all turned towards the rocks. Just then a figure melted out of the side
of the stone and walked towards us with her spear drawn. She had black
hair, tan skin, and was wearing a fur coat. The look in her eyes told me not to
mess with her. She stared at us and started to approach. We started to back
away. Noah broke free from Eddie and ran towards her.
Eddie reached for him. Hey! Noah! Stop!
It was too late. He made it to the girl and stuck his hand out. She lowered
her spear. He smiled. Hi! Im Noah! Whats your name?
She knelt down next to him. Hello Noah. My name is Zola. I am an Oread,
a spirit of the mountain. What are you doing here? She said, taking his hand
in hers.
Well, I was looking for Mr. Underwood, but hes been arrested. So now we
have to find him, because I feel really, really, really, bad and it might have
possibly been my fault that he was arrested.
We?
Oh yeah, this is my brother Eddie, my other brother Sam, and my, umm,
Mallory.
She stood up and faced us. You should not be here.
Sam stepped forward. Believe me Zola, we know. My names Sam by the
way, in case you were wondering. I am obviously the best looking of my
brothers.
She would not take her eyes off of Eddie. Even in another world, everyone
is still in love with him. I guess I wasnt surprised.
Eddie stepped forward. Zola, right? Yeah look, we just want to find the
faun. Can you help us please?
But, dont you realize who you are?
Umm, were just regular kids.
She ran towards him and put her hand over his mouth. Shh, keep your

29
voice down! The trees will hear you! She hissed.
We all looked around. The trees? She made it seem as though they were
alive. I dont think thats possible. I stepped forward.
Zola, what are you talking about?
She looked at me with disgust in her eyes. Dont you know? She asked.
Well she definitely didnt like me. Thats just great.
Eddie moved her hand from his mouth. Well, can you explain please?
She nodded. Yes, Edward. Follow me. I will take you to my home and
explain there. He flinched when she said his full name. She started to walk
off into the woods. She turned to us. Well, come on.
Noah started to walk towards her, followed by Sam. He seriously did not
take his eyes off of her the whole time. I dont know what he thought was
going to happen. He ran up and started to walk next to her. He tried to talk
to her, but lets face it, she wanted nothing to do with him and quite frankly
could probably kick his ass with her eyes closed. I started to walk behind
them, but then stopped when I realized that Eddie wasnt following. I turned
around.
Eddie, arent you coming?
He shook his head. This is crazy. We cant seriously be doing this.
Its fine.
Honestly you arent freaked out by this at all? He asked confused.
I sighed. I dont know whats going on.
I mean, what is this girl doing in Ernests basement? Are we even in
Ernests basement any more? Where are we? Is this even real?
I dont know.
It sure feels real.
I know it does.
He exhaled. Mallory, we have to go back.
I sighed. No, come on. Lets at least find out whats going on.
Mom is going to kill me if something happens to them.
I walked back and grabbed his hand. Youll be fine. Lets go, before we
lose Zola, not that she would forget you or anything.
He started to walk with me. Yeah, that was weird.
Seriously, I have no idea how you even manage to get girls from different
worlds to fall for you.
He smiled. Its a gift.
I started to laugh, but then stopped when I saw the other three stopped in
front of us. I looked at Zola. She was giving me a death stare. My eyes
widened and I dropped Eddies hand. She turned around slowly and started
to walk again. I saw Eddie smirk out of the corner of my eye. We all followed

30
her in silence.
After walking for about a mile, we reached her cave. We walked inside and
she started a fire. I looked around. It looked a lot like Underwoods place with
tapestries, blankets, and herbs. She motioned for us to sit around the fire. It
felt so good to get my feet warm. Eddie sat down next to me, and Zola, of
course, sat down on the other side of him. Sam sat on the other side of her
and Noah sat down in Eddies lap. He yawned.
Wow, I forgot that it was really late. What time was it? It was cloudy here.
I couldnt see the sun. Was it the same sun as Earth or were we on a different
planet? So many questions. I dont think anyone had the answer.
Zola cleared her throat. Okay, now, humans, we can talk.
Noah yawned again. Humans? Arent we all humans?
Oh, but young Noah, thats where youre wrong. Here in Celestia,
humans are very rare. In fact, there is an ancient prophecy that says that
one day four humans will travel to this land and bring peace.
Sam raised an eyebrow. Peace?
She rolled her eyes. Yes, thats what I said. Now, the witch Bruhara rules
the land with her evil son. Celestians everywhere are forced to obey her. She
is doing all she can to prevent this prophecy from occurring, including
hunting down humans.
Noahs eyes widened. He gulped. But, but, thats why Mr. Underwood
was arrested. Someone must have seen me and turned him in, but how?
Zola leaned in close. Like I said, the trees will hear you.
He gulped deeper. Even the trees are on her side?
She nodded grimly. They will turn in anyone they hear into the secret
police.
I turned to her. The secret police?
She rolled her eyes. Yes human. The witch has a pack of wolves that
patrol all of Celestia.
But, but there was a name on the bottom of the wanted paper, umm, B
something.
She sighed. Bernard?
Yes! Why dont we just talk to him?
She rolled her eyes again. Did you not just hear me call him evil? No?
Well then, oh yes, lets just waltz right up to the palace and turn ourselves in
to hopefully release the faun. Do you realize how stupid that is?
Sams eyes widened. Now thats my kind of woman. Sarcastic and
funny. He said under his breath.
Zola raised an eyebrow at him. He shut his mouth and nodded.
She continued. Now listen. Bernard is a puppet of the witch herself. She

31
uses her gift of magic to control the land. We cannot defeat her. She is too
powerful. But without him, she will have no way to enforce her power. He
runs everything. The witch just stays in her tower and gives instructions. So
if you want your faun back, you have to take him out.
Eddie looked confused. Well, whats he like? Do we even have a chance?
She smirked at me, and then turned to Eddie. Great question, Edward.
He stopped her. Eddie, actually.
She swallowed. Oh, yes, sorry. She smiled.
He nodded. Go on.
Now Bernard is from an island in the Great Eastern Ocean. The Witch
found him as a young boy. He resembled that of a human so she decided to
raise him like her own, to prevent the chance that he may upset her power.
Eddie looked at her. So hes like us? Well then why doesnt someone just
duel him or whatever. Is that something you do here? Duels?
She looked at him. Eddie, everyone is terrified of the witch. Not only that,
but they are waiting for the prophecy to come true. It is said that with the
arrival of the humans comes the return of the great leopard Deonesus
himself.
Noah perked his head up. See I told you! He cried looking back at Eddie.
Zola nodded. Deonesus is the great noble ruler of Celestia, well at least
he was until the witch came.
I scrunched my eyebrows. What do you mean?
She rolled her eyes. If you just let me continue, I was getting to that. See
Deonesus has disappeared for centuries, but now it is rumored that he is
back and raising an army to confront the witch.
Sam turned to us. Well, lets just go there then.
Eddie looked at him. Are you crazy? We have to go home. This is way
beyond us.
Noah looked up at him. But, but what about Mr. Underwood? We cant
just let him die! You have to fight Bernard, Eddie! He whined.
Me?
Yes! You have to lead the army!
Me? He asked again.
Noah nodded.
I dont know how to do that, Noah. Im sure the army can handle
themselves just fine.
No, they need you!
Eddie sighed. We dont even know where the army is.
Noah shook his head. I know where they are. Mr. Underwood showed me.
He said that you just follow the river until it empties into the Great Waterfall.

32
Then, you follow the cherry blossom trees until you reach the Valley of the
Dawn. From his house he said that it would only take like a day or two to get
there.
Zola stared at him in awe. Thats right. Apparently Deonesus is preparing
an army. My brother is one of the commanders. She said.
Noah turned to Eddie. We have to go. They need our help. Deonesus is
waiting for us. He motioned to the opening of the cave. The Celestians are
tired of winter. He said annoyed.
Eddie sighed deeply. Im, Im sorry Noah but we cant. This is too much
for us. We have to go back home. I cant risk your guys lives. Mom would kill
me.
Noah started to whimper. But, but, but the prophecy!
I looked at him. Noah, that prophecy could be about other kids.
Noah turned to me. But Deonesus is here and everything! We cant just
leave! He whined.
Sam was looking at Zola. Yeah man, we cant just leave!
Eddie sighed. Guys, this isnt up for discussion. We are leaving right
now.
But Im tired! Noah cried.
I will carry you. Eddie said.
But well get lost! We dont know the way back.
Noah, Im sure we will be fine.
We should wait until the morning when its light out so we can see.
We can see just fine. Its not that dark.
But there are wild animals!
We will be careful.
Sam nodded suddenly. Yeah, you know those wild animals are pretty
unpredictable. They might have a thing for humans. We should probably just
stay here to be safe.
Eddie sighed and looked at him.
Sam shrugged. Just saying.
Eddie exhaled and looked at Zola. Do you mind if we sleep here? He
asked through gritted teeth.
Zola nodded dreamily. Sure, Ill go get some blankets.
She got up and came back a few minutes later. She gave a pillow and a
blanket to each of us. Then, she sighed deeply. Well, umm, Ill see you all at
first light. She turned to Eddie. Think about it, please?
Eddie sighed. Zola we have to leave.
She sighed deeply again and walked off into the other room. Once she
was gone, Sam turned to Eddie. Man, why do we have to go? Thats my

33
potential girlfriend right there!
Eddie looked at him. Shes not even human. No one here is human!
Sam nodded and then paused. He looked off into the distance and looked
like he was contemplating something.
Eddie groaned. What, Sam?
I cant decide if thats racist or not.
Eddie rolled his eyes. Well, theres nothing to decide because were
leaving in the morning whether you like it or not.
Wow are you sure youre not ready to lead an army? Youre doing a bang
up job right now.
Sam, go to sleep.
Yes sir. He mocked, turning away from us.
A few minutes later, I could hear his light breathing, so I guessed that he
was asleep. I turned to Noah, who was moping underneath his blankets.
Noah, its time to go to bed.
He looked up at me helplessly. Mal, why do we have to go? He whined.
I sat down next to him. Because, Eddie just wants to make sure that
youre safe and that nothing bad happens to you. Right, Eddie?
Eddie came over and sat down on the other side of Noah. Yeah Noah. I
couldnt stand it if something happened to you.
Noah turned to him. But, this whole thing is my fault! We have to do
something!
I dont even know where we are! These people arent human! We are so
out of our league its not even funny!
But...
No, Noah. No buts. Go to sleep! Eddie yelled as he got up and stormed
off to the opening of the cave.
Well, that was dramatic.
I turned back to Noah. Why dont you try and get some sleep? Well talk
about it in the morning.
He nodded slowly and snuggled under the covers. I kissed him good night
and rubbed his back until he fell asleep a few minutes later. I sighed and
stood up. Well, now for the big problem. I walked towards the opening of the
cave. Eddie was sitting on the edge. I sighed.
Well, that was dramatic. I said as I sat down next to him on the ledge.
No, dramatic would be jumping off the ledge right now.
I swallowed. Dont do that.
He laughed. I wont.
We were silent for a minute.
He looked at me. We are doing the right thing, right?

34
 Why do you always ask me that?
He sighed. I dont know, but I just feel better when someone agrees with
menamely you.
I rolled my eyes. Wow, you know, last week you would hardly talk to me,
and now you are asking advice....
Its been a rough week. He said.
Clearly.
What are we supposed to do?
I have no idea. I dont know if were dreaming, if this prophecy is about
us, or even if this place exists.
Well it sure feels real, even if it is just some crazy dream. He said slowly.
I know.
I dont know what to believe any more.
I kind of like it here. I said quietly focusing on my hands in my lap.
You do?
I nodded. Yeah.
Why?
I pushed a strand of hair behind my ear. Because its different than
home.
He was silent. Oh. He finally said.
And people here dont hate me yet.
Im really sorry we cant stay.
I shrugged. Its okay, I know we cant.
Im glad youre not crazy.
Me too. Lets go get some sleep, and then in the morning we can go
home and forget that this ever happened.
He nodded. Okay. He said forcing a smile.
He stood up and walked into the cave. I really didnt want to forget this. I
didnt want to leave either, but if Eddie said we had to then I would. I wanted
to stay on his good side.
I stood up and followed him. He sat down by the fire and grabbed a
blanket. He put his head against the pillow and I heard him start to breathe
deeply. I sat next to him and curled up with a blanket. I closed my eyes and
before I knew it, I was asleep.

Im not really sure how long I was asleep, but when I woke up, it was light in
the cave and the fire was nothing but ashes. My back was sore from sleeping
on the stone. I sat up, rubbed my eyes, and looked around. I stretched my
arms. Sam was still passed out, and Eddie was asleep next to me.
I looked to Noah to see if he was awake. I saw a pile of blankets, but I

35
didnt see him anywhere. I scrambled up and around the cave saying his
name quietly. Oh god. I searched everywhere. He was nowhere to be found.
Oh god. I started to hyperventilate. Oh, this was bad. I ran back over to Eddie
and slid down next to him. I shook him awake.
Eddie, Eddie, wake up!
He rolled over to face me, still half asleep. Hmm, whats up? He said
dreamily.
Noahs gone.
His eyes shot open. What?
He, hes gone. Ive looked everywhere.
He scrambled up and looked around. No, no, no this is bad. Mom is
going to kill me.
What are we supposed to do? I asked urgently.
I, I dont know, Im, I, oh my god, oh my god, Zola! Eddie yelled.
Sam shot up from the floor. Where? He cried.
I raised my eyebrow. Sam, Noahs missing.
Oh, so wheres Zola?
Oh my god. I dont think you heard me. Noah is gone.
Well, maybe Zola knows.
Just then, Zola emerged from behind the curtain. Maybe Zola knows
what?
Eddie looked to her helplessly. Noahs missing.
The color drained from her face. Oh Eddie, thats horrible. She said
sympathetically.
Sam interrupted. Whoa, whoa, Im his brother too!
Zola looked at him annoyed. Sam! How horrible. Now can we please try
and find him?
Sam nodded.
The whole time, in my head, I was thinking that this was going to end
badly. I started to pace and touched my head. Where was he? Where was he?
Did someone take him? Was he even alive?
I stopped when I saw a little piece of paper poking out of his blankets. I
rushed over and snatched it up. Hey, hey guys! Look at this. I started to
read aloud. Dear Eddie, Sam, and Mal, Im sorry but I had to leave. I have to
find Mr. Underwood. He needs my help and so does Celestia. Dont worry Ill
be okay. Tell mom that Im sorry. Long live Celestia!
Eddie put his head in his hands. Oh my god.
Sam nodded. Hey, maybe hell just find the dude and come back like he
said. Im sure itll be fine. Hes a squirrelly little kid.
Eddie lowered his hands and tried to hold back his anger. Dont you get

36
it? What am I going to tell mom if we cant find him? Im a dead man!
Zola and I both stepped forward, but I gave her a death glare so she
stepped back. I put my hand on Eddies shoulder. Eddie, we have to go find
him.
He exhaled. I know. He paused. But he could be anywhere! We dont
know where Underwood is! We dont know how to find him!
Just then, Sam interrupted. Well we could go see that Deonesus guy. Im
sure he could help us.
Sam, thats a great idea. Ill take you there. Zola said.
Eddie was still hesitant. But what if its too late? We dont even know
what were doing.
Zola turned to him. I know a shortcut that will get us there in two sun
ups. We can do this.
Eddie looked at me. I sighed. Eddie, you know that we have to go and
get him back.
Eddie nodded. Alright, I really hope that this Deonesus knows what hes
talking about.
Zola grinned and motioned for us to follow her to the back of the cave.
He will not disappoint you. Come, lets prepare for the journey.
We walked with her as she went to a barrel and pulled out two swords.
She gave one to Eddie and one to Sam. There, she said. How are those?
They nodded slowly. Well, thats great. I turned to Zola. I need one too.
She looked at me annoyed. I suppose you do.
I forced a smile.
Zola dug around. She pulled out a small dagger. Here. She said,
handing to me slowly.
Wow okay. I mean I guess I had no idea how to fight with a sword, so it
didnt really matter.
Umm, do you by any chance have an extra pair of shoes? I asked.
She rolled her eyes and disappeared behind a screen. She emerged a
minute later with a pair of worn out moccasins and a coat. Youre going to
need something warmer. She said throwing them at me.
I nodded and thanked her. I put on the shoes and the coat.
Zola emerged again with a satchel bag. I packed two days worth of food.
If we leave now, we can make it there the morning of the third day.
Sam cleared his throat. And where exactly is there?
Zola sighed and pulled out a piece of parchment. She grabbed a piece of
charcoal and started to draw. Okay, listen carefully because I am only
explaining this once, got it?
Sam nodded quickly.

37
 Okay, well lets assume that this is a map of Celestia. We are here, by the
Oread Cliffs. She said drawing a star in the lower left corner of the map.
This is the Great River that we are going follow. She said drawing a curvy
line across the paper.
Sam raised his hand. Zola stopped suddenly and sighed deeply. Ask any
questions and you die.
Sam nodded quickly. Zola looked at him. May I continue? She asked.
He nodded again. She sighed. Here is the witchs palace and these are
the places that we are going to avoid. She said marking them with an x.
Our goal is to get you all to the camp which is all the way over here in the
Valley of the Dawn. Understand? She asked annoyed.
Wow, that was a long way to go. We were never going to make it. Sam
cleared his throat. Umm can I borrow that for a sec? He asked grabbing the
charcoal.
He drew four little stick figures next to the cave. I sighed. Zola scrunched
her eyebrows. Who are they?
Thats Eddie, thats Mal, thats me, and thats you! He said pointing to
the figures.
Why are you and I holding hands?
Oh, are we? I didnt notice. Sam said innocently. It must be a sign as to
whats going to happen in the future.
Zola rolled her eyes. Eddie sighed. Sam, can you please stop flirting so
that we can get going?
Sams expression hardened. Fine.
We all nodded and followed Zola out of the cave. We started to walk
down the path. Sam ran forward to talk with Zola. I think that she was
starting to warm up to him. Every now and then, I could hear her actually
laugh. I wasnt worried about them. Now Eddie? Eddie, I was worried about.
He was a wreck. He kept looking around.
I walked next to him. Eddie, well find him!
He nodded. I really hope so. All I can say is that if something bad
happens to him, that person is going to wish that they were never born. He
said grabbing his sword.
I started to laugh, even though I dont think that he was trying to be
funny. Do you even know how to use a sword?
He held out his arms. How hard could it be?
Pretty hard.
He waved me off. I pick up things really easily.
Right, lets make sure that Deonesus trains you before we do any thing
too serious.

38
 He tried to hold back a laugh. Yeah thats probably a good idea.
For most of the first day, nothing went wrong. We snuck around through
woods the whole day. Based on the stories that Zola told us, I figured that it
was going to be rough and we were going to last about five minutes. Well,
its been a whole day and nothing has attacked us. We could do this!
The best part of the day was that Eddie talked to me the whole day, and
not even about Noah or Lily, just about stuff. Completely random stuff. Like
movies, food, math class, music, and TV. It was freaky how similar we were.
We liked all the same things. We were really bonding.
We followed the river all day and when it got dark, we made camp. Now
lets just say that none of us were too fond of just plopping down in the
middle of nowhere and basically letting the witch sneak up and grab us. So in
other words, no one got any sleep, well except maybe Zola because she
could just melt into the rocks and be safe.
Zola, Sam, Eddie, and I sat around the fire, all a little jumpy. There was
still no sign of Noah. We were all tired, and lets face it, wanted to go home.
It was cold, and none of us had any idea what to expect.
Next to me, Eddie was poking the fire with a stick. My eyes started to
droop and I leaned on him. Im not really sure why, but for some reason it
sounded like a good idea. I was so tired that it didnt matter. I would have
lied on a rock. Although I would have preferred not to.
I know he has a girlfriend, but hey, Im sure girls lean on him all the time. I
take that back. Lily was crazy. So no, maybe girls didnt. Well, Lily wasnt
here. This was a big step for me. I was kind of proud of myself. He looked
down at me, then back at the fire. I even think that he leaned back on me a
little. I forced a smile.
Basically, for the next three hours we just sat there. It was awful. I was
afraid to sleep but I was so tired. Sam kept trying to make jokes, but none of
us laughed. I wasnt in the mood.
Finally, Zola got tired of it. Okay look, personally, I think that we are just
wasting time. No one is going to sleep so why dont we just get moving? We
can get there faster if we start now.
We all nodded in agreement. All of us were exhausted. She put out the fire
and turned to us. This was the easy part.
I looked at her confused. What?
Were approaching the witchs palace so Im not making any promises
about survival.
Oh.
Sam spoke first. So we are just going to walk right by the evil lair?
She looked at him. Have you got a better idea?

39
 He paused and shook his head after a minute. Nope.
Eddie sighed. Lets just go, fast.
Well were not going to go in and say hi! That would be suicide. She
laughed.
Sam leaned in close to Eddie. I like her.
Eddie rolled his eyes. Whatever, lets go.
We started to walk and followed the river for another hour. Finally, we
arrived in a clearing. I looked out over the hill. It was more like a huge ice
skating rink. It stretched on for a few miles. If there had been sun, the whole
lake would have been glistening but apparently the sun doesnt exist here so
I guess we wont find out. In the distance, there was a huge ice castle sitting
at the base of a hill with woods behind it. We stopped walking and stood in
awe.
Sam managed to speak. Im guessing that that is the castle that were
supposed to avoid? He asked.
Zola nodded slowly. What gave it away?
Sam started to laugh, but stopped when Eddie gave him a death glare.
Zola swallowed. Welcome to the Lair of the Bruhara. It really is a dreadful
place.
We all nodded slowly. Eddie gulped. You think that Noahs in there?
I looked at him. No, he cant be.
Yes he was. He had to be. I just didnt want to make Eddie feel bad.
Eddie nodded. I hope youre right.
Yeah, me too.
Sam shrugged. Lets find out. He turned to the palace. Noah! He
screamed.
What is his problem!
We all turned to him. Zola put her hand over his mouth. Are you insane?
She hissed. Theyll hear you!
He shrugged. Sorry. It was worth a try.
Lets go before they hear us.
Too late.
In the distance, we heard howling. Ah crap.
Zola whipped her head around. Theyve found us. She managed to
whisper.
My eyes widened. Who?
The wolves.
If you squinted, you could see that there were tiny specks moving down
the hill towards us. Oh dear. I spun around to face the others. We have to
get out of here.

40
 Zola started to hyperventilate. Lets go this way.
She started to run with Sam towards the forest. Eddie looked at me. I
exhaled deeply. He grabbed my arm and we tore off towards Zola and Sam.
Well, it was cold, and I hated running. Could this get any worse? Oh yeah,
wolves were chasing us. Worst day of my life. We ran for what felt like
forever. Finally Zola stopped running for a second. We all basically collapsed.
It was awful. I was so out of shape. She was breathing deeply.
If we can get to the other side of the waterfall, we will survive. She said
relieved.
Sam looked up at her. What? He managed.
The waterfall is too wide to run across. There is a rope that will swing us
across, two at a time. If we can get to the other side, the wolves cant follow
us. We just have to get there before the wolves catch us.
Sam turned around. I dont see them anywhere.
She nodded. Oh, trust me theyre coming. We just had a little bit of a
head start.
Well, were kind of wasting the head start.
She nodded. I agree.
So which way?
She looked around and grabbed Eddies arm. This way.
We all started to run after her for like another twenty minutes. It was
horrible, but the fact that we didnt want to be eaten by wolves kept us
moving. Finally, I could hear the rush of water. Water? What about ice?
Five minutes later, we emerged from the trees. About a quarter of a mile
ahead of us the ground dropped off into a cliff. We ran to the edge and I
looked down. It seemed to go on forever, but at the bottom there was a huge
river. On the other side, a cliff leveled out into grass.
Yeah, thats right, grass, not snow.
Zola took a deep breath. Well, I wasnt expecting this.
I looked at her confused. Where is the ice? Shouldnt the river and
waterfall be frozen?
She looked around. The waterfall is melting because the witchs power is
decreasing. As Deonesus grows stronger, springtime comes with him. It will
continue to get warmer and warmer, until finally the witch is defeated.
Deonesus must be near.
Sam nodded. So we are getting across, how?
If I remember correctly there should be a ladder or something. She
started to peek over the edge. Ha, there it is. She said pointing to what
looked like a set of monkey bars extending across the valley. Im not even
going to ask how thats possible. Ive learned that anything is possible here.

41
 I squinted. Were supposed to walk across that? Isnt there like a main
bridge or something that we can take?
She rolled her eyes and pointed. About ten miles that way, but unless
you want the wolves to just follow us right across, we should take this way.
Sam raised an eyebrow. Which is what exactly?
She sighed. There are two ropes attached, here. She said pointing to the
side of the cliff. She ran over and detached one of them. These should be
long enough to drop us over to the other side.
Eddie looked confused. But how do you get them back?
She nodded. Well, there is no easy way to get them back. This route is
very dangerous, and was constructed by my people, for my people only. I
wasnt really expecting for us to get this far so this should be interesting
Great.
But if was only constructed for you, then how are we supposed to cross?
She turned to the river. There is a small beach on either side of the cliffs
so you are to release the rope right before you hit the cliff and fall on the
sand. I will get you there.
Sams eyes widened. Are you crazy?
Eddie sighed. Sam, go.
Umm, pass.
Eddie pushed Sam to go with her. Go Sam. Well be right behind you.
Focus Mal. Its just a coincidence. Eddie didnt do this on purpose. No he
couldnt have. He was saving his brother. Sam nodded and stared at us for a
second. Then he turned and grabbed on the rope. Zola turned to us.
See you on the other side.
We nodded. Zola jumped off the side with Sam and we looked over the
edge. They were swinging towards the beach. At the last second, Zola
pushed Sam off the rope and he fell to the beach. Zola headed straight for
the cliff. She swung right into the side of the cliff and melted into the rock.
Seemed simple enough. Eddie knelt down and grabbed the other rope. He
was standing up when all of a sudden we heard howling in the distance. I
gasped. Eddie whirled around, dropping the rope in the process. No!
I reached for it, but it was too late. No, Eddie, the rope!
He whirled back around. Crap.
No, no wait, look! I said pointing down towards the side of the cliff.
The rope was caught on the side of a branch, twenty feet down. Well, at
least it wasnt swinging across with out us! It was just out of our reach with
wolves running at us. Fantastic.
We turned back around to face the trees. Sure enough, about twenty
wolves emerged into the clearing, followed by a man on a horse. Ah crap.

42
Eddie turned back to the cliff, and then back to the wolves.
He looked forward. Im sorry that it had to end like this Mallory.
My eyes widened. There has to be something we can do!
He shook his head. I dont think so.
The wolves were getting closer. I never thought that I would die with
Eddie. Never even crossed my mind. Not in a million years.
I exhaled. Eddie.
Itll be okay, Mallory.
No, no we are going to die.
He swallowed. I know.
Thats not okay!
He kept staring at the wolves. I know.
I, I, dont want to...
He cut me off. I know.
What are we
He stopped me. Mallory, I dont know what to do.
Me neither.
Im so sorry.
So we are just going to stand here and waste our last minutes telling
each other that we dont know what to do?
He forced a smile. I guess so.
We were silent for a second. My mind started to race. We never found
Noah.
He swallowed. I know. Hopefully hes safe.
Oh my god.
Do we die at home if we die here?
I dont know.
Oh my god.
What if we do? I asked slowly.
I dont know.
My mouth felt dry. I bet youd rather be with Lily than me right now.
He shook his head. Not necessarily. Shed be freaking out.
And Im not?
Surprisingly no. He managed to force a smile.
I swallowed. Or maybe you just cant see it because you arent looking at
me.
He turned to me slowly.
Because I am freaking out. I added as my voice waivered.
He looked at me sympathetically. Mallory.
I met his eyes and realized what I was going to do. I was going to kiss him.

43
Now was my only chance. I was going to. We were going to die anyway. I
heard the wolves. I swallowed deeply and pulled his face towards mine.
I kissed him.
He seemed startled but didnt pull back. Lets just say that it was the best
two seconds of my life, and maybe my last, but I was okay with that. His lips
were soft against mine. It felt right, which was strange, but it was perfect.
Just then, the wolves surrounded us. They were growling and looked very
angry. Eddie turned to them, but grabbed my hand. Oh my god. Id be
freaking out excited if we werent about to die.
When the man on the horse got closer, I could see that he was young like
us. His face was dark. He had black curly hair and deep black eyes. He got
off of his horse and strutted towards us slowly. He had his sword in its hilt.
Well, I hope Im not interrupting anything. He said sarcastically. His
eyes fell on me. His expression softened. Well whos this? He said as he
walked towards me.
Eddie tried to step in front of me, but I pushed him back. I should ask you
the same question. I snapped.
He stepped back a step. Feisty! I am the great Bernard. Son of her
Majesty and Sorceress Bruhara. Head of the Secret Police. And you are?
This was Bernard? I was expecting some old and powerful dude with a
beard and stuff! I tried to stay brave, but truth was that I was terrified,
because well he had a sword, and I bet he actually knew how to use it. Thank
god, Eddie stepped forward.
Im Eddie, and this is Mallory. He said, pointing to me.
Bernard stared at me for a second, and then he grabbed his sword from
its hilt. He started to move it around slowly as if he was inspecting it. You
know, you look a lot like this other boy that I met the other day. Hes been
staying with me and you could say that weve gotten to know each other
very well. His name is Noah. Heard of him?
I gasped and put my hand over my mouth. No! They had Noah! No, no.
The color drained from Eddies face. Bernard smirked and pointed his sword
at us.
I knew it. You humans will not make it out of here alive. He said evilly.
I swallowed deeply.
Bernard turned around and started to pace back and forth along his
wolves. You hear that wolves? Weve got ourselves two more of them!
The wolves started to howl. As Bernard was gloating to his wolves, Eddie
leaned in close to me. Mallory, do you trust me?
I nodded.
Good. He said under his breath.

44
 I looked up at him. Do I really have a choice?
Eddie smiled.
Bernard whirled around to face us. No talking while I am gloating!
We turned to face him. He continued. Now, I have decided to spare the
girl, if you tell me where the other human is.
My expression hardened. Nice try.
Well, I didnt want for it to end like this. I feel that we never really got to
know each other.
Just as Bernard was about to give the orders to kill us, Eddie stepped
forward. Bernard paused. Ah, what are you doing? He asked confused.
Eddie smirked at him and then turned to face me. What is going on? He
ran towards me and tackled me, off the side of the cliff. My eyes widened
and I screamed. What was he doing? We were falling! Oh my god! We were
falling! No! I looked up towards the top of the cliff and Bernard was looking
over the side and all the wolves were next to him.
Just then, Eddie reached his hand out and we werent falling anymore. We
were, swinging. He must have grabbed the rope that was stuck on the
branch! Oh my god, I thought that we were going to die! I looked around
frantically as my hair whipped in my face. We swung for a few seconds and
soon the beach was below us. Eddie pushed me off the rope and then he
jumped off. I landed in the sand and rolled to a stop. Ow, it was farther
down than I thought. I sat up slowly and touched my head. Ugh, that hurt. I
looked around.
Sam ran towards me. I turned around. Eddie was a few feet on my other
side. He sat up and grabbed his shoulder in pain. My expression hardened. I
stood up and stormed towards him. He smiled helplessly when he saw me.
He stood up but I pushed him back down.
Eddie Michaels, are you insane? I cried.
He shrugged and smiled. Probably.
Why is he so attractive?
I shook my head. We almost died. Give me a little warning next time!
I asked if you trusted me!
Yeah, but you could have been like hey Mallory, Im going to push us off
the side of a cliff now. That would have been helpful!
But then he would have heard us.
I sighed. I guess youre right. I paused. Were alive arent we?
He smiled. We are.
Just then, Sam reached us. His mouth was open. Oh my god, guys. If you
wanted to be alone, all you had to do was say so. He said annoyed.
I put my face in my hands as I started to blush. Crap. Crap. I kissed Eddie,

45
and we didnt die. Oh god. I swallowed deeply and turned to Eddie.
He smirked.
I turned back to Sam. Umm, Sam the wolves got us.
The color drained from his face. What? He looked over to the other side.
Oh my god. Yeah I see them. Whos the dude? He asked.
Thats Bernard.
Thats Bernard? He looked back over and waved at them. Ha! There
isnt a bridge for another ten miles. This is great. He smiled.
Bernard was a little speck in the distance. I think I could still hear him
yelling. It was great.
Eddie stood up and brushed off his hands. Sam, no its not. He has
Noah.
Sam whirled around to face us. What?
Yeah, they captured him. We have to get to Deonesus.
Wheres Zola? Last I saw, she melted into the side of the cliff. He said,
looking around.
Just then, Zola melted out of the side of the rock in front of us. Sam
yelped and jumped four feet in the air. Umm, found her. He said sheepishly.
She ran towards us. What took you so long?
Sam smirked. They were making out. He said, making kissing noises.
She raised an eyebrow. My face got super red and Eddie shoved Sam. I
managed to speak. For like a second. The wolves got us. See, theyre on the
other side. I said, pointing to the other edge of the cliff.
Zola gave me a death stare and turned to the other cliff. She squinted. Is
that Bernard with them? What is he doing here? She asked.
He came with them. Zola he has Noah. We have to go get him.
Zola shook her head. No, its too risky. We will have to let the others
handle it. We must get moving.
I nodded. Okay, where?
Zola looked around for a second. Here. She said pointing in the
distance. I squinted and I could see a cave in the side of the cliff. This is the
way.
We all nodded and ran towards it. We got to the entrance and turned
around to see if the wolves were still there. They were all still looking at us
dumbfounded. Bernard was yelling about something, but I didnt really care
because the closest way to get across was ten miles in the other direction.
Zola turned and ran into the cave. Sam turned to face Bernard and he
flipped him off. It was so totally hilarious, except for the fact that Bernard
had no idea what it was. Eddie started to laugh and he pushed Sam into the
cave. He and I followed Sam. Zola was waiting for us.

46
 When we reached her, she started to run again. The tunnel snaked around
until finally we emerged from a cliff hidden by tall pine trees. We walked out
into the clearing. My mouth dropped open. The snow was melting! There
were flowers growing. This was great! It was actually warmer! Zola started to
walk and turned around to face us.
We still have about another half of a days journey. We should be safe for
the most part. If we get separated, just follow the cherry blossom trees
there. She said pointing to the top of the hill. If you looked close, you could
see that there was a distinct line of cherry blossom trees leading off over the
hills.
We all started to walk towards the trees. Once again, Sam ran ahead to
walk with Zola. Im still not sure if she liked him or not though. It was kind of
hard to tell. She was still obsessed with Eddie I think.
Eddie stayed back to walk with me. Great. Here we go. I was dreading
this. I was so embarrassed. I was absolutely mortified. He put his hands in his
pockets. We walked in silence for a few minutes.
Finally, Eddie turned to me. He didnt say anything. He turned back. After
a second, he looked at me again. He looked away again. Then he looked at
me.
I sighed. Okay look. I thought that we were going to die so I panicked.
Im sorry that I kissed you. We can just forget about it. Act like it never
happened.
But it did.
Why wasnt he denying it!
Oh my god Eddie. What do you want me to say? Im madly in love with
you or something?
He smirked. Oh you are?
Yes.
Thats not what I said. I was just making up a situation.
Sure you were. He said skeptically.
I cant believe you right now.
He smiled. Calm down Mallory, Im just messing with you. Its fine. I
understand.
Just dont tell Lily okay? Shed kill me.
He sighed. What happens in Celestia, stays in Celestia. He said.
Good.
He was silent for a second and then turned to me. You really thought that
we were going to die?
I rolled my eyes. He had us cornered. You dropped the freaking rope.
What else was I supposed to think?

47
 I had a plan!
No you didnt! You stood there like a deer in headlights! You didnt even
pull your sword!
Well, your brilliant plan was kissing me! Eddie shot back.
Great. I knew he couldnt let it go. I bit my lip. I, umm...
He shook his head quickly. Oh, I didnt mean it like that.
I nodded. I think you did.
But I didnt.
And I thought we werent talking about it. I added.
He sighed. I guess not.
I smiled and started to laugh. He laughed too. Zola kept looking back at
us.

For the next few hours, everything was pretty quiet. We just talked the whole
time. Finally, Zola stopped on the top of the hill. We caught up with her. I
looked over the top of the hill. We made it! Oh wow, this was great. Below
us was a large valley. There were hundreds of animals and creatures with
tents and weapons. This was some army! We stood there for like five minutes
just watching, until Zola turned to us.
Welcome to the Valley of the Dawn. Deonesus is waiting for you.
She started to walk down the hill. We followed her very eagerly. We
started to walk down the path in between the tents. The creatures all
stopped working and stared at us in awe. There were a lot of whispers about
humans and prophecies.
Oh great, I forgot about that. I just really want to find Noah, and then well
talk about this prophecy. Finally, Zola stopped walking when we reached the
end of the path. There was a large tent, and I figured that it must be
Deonesuss. A man that looked a lot like Zola emerged from the tent. He
walked forward and Zola ran towards him quickly.
Brother! She said happily.
He nodded. Zola, I am glad to see that you have arrived safely. He said.
She nodded, and then turned to us. This is my brother, Orion. He is one
of the commanders of Deonesuss army. Then she turned to her brother.
Brother, these are the humans of the prophecy. I am sure of it. She pointed
to us. This is Sam, this is Mallory, and this is Eddie.
Orions expression hardened. Where is the other boy?
Zola nodded. The other, Noah, has been captured by the evil witch.
Orion looked confused. How do you know this?
I raised my hand slowly. I dont know why I did, but I did. He felt important
to me, like he was in charge and I had to listen to him. So, I raised my hand.

48
Umm, sir, we were, uh, attacked by Bernard and his wolves. He told us that
he had Noah. I said.
Orions eyes widened. He turned to Zola. He knows about them. We have
less time than I thought.
Just then, Eddie stepped forward. Sir, we have to get him back. Hes our
brother.
Orion looked at him confused. You are all related?
Umm, well Sir, Sam and Noah are my brothers. Mallory isa friend. He
said slowly.
Orion nodded. I see.
Please, we need to speak with Deonesus.
I am afraid that he is not here at the moment. We are unsure of where he
is actually. He never said when he would return.
Great.
All of our expressions saddened.
Orion took a step forward. However, my other commanders and I may be
of assistance. He motioned to two other men standing next to him. One
was a centaur and the other was an animal with very large horns. This is
Chatura, a centaur from the north, and Cornelius, a faun from the western
mountains.
We introduced ourselves. Then, the three commanders turned towards
one another and began to converse quietly. After a few minutes, they
stopped. Orion nodded and turned to us.
If you will help us fight the witch, we will help you get your brother
back.
Eddie looked at them concerned. But how? We dont know what were
doing!
Chatura stepped forward. Edward, we will train you. You will stay with us.
Well train you to become a commander. You would be very beneficial.
Eddie raised an eyebrow. You want me to run the operation? He asked.
Chatura nodded solemnly. It is your destiny.
Whoa, my destiny? Im not even supposed to be here!
Chatura turned to Cornelius. Its time.
Cornelius came forward and cleared his throat. His voice boomed very
deeply. The prophecy states that one day Celestia will be ruled by three
powerful kings. They will be humans, brothers in fact. With the arrival of the
kings comes the end of the witchs era and the return of Deonesus. Peace
will be granted to all of Celestia.
Sam leaned in close to me. Huh, no pressure or anything. He whispered.
Seriously!

49
 I smiled.
Eddie took a deep breath. So you are telling me that my brothers and I
are destined to rule this place?
Cornelius nodded.
Eddie shook his head. This is crazy. I dont know anything about being a
king.
We will train you.
Eddie nodded. Then he looked confused. Hey, but what about Mallory?
He asked.
Yeah. Wait, what about me? Why arent I in the prophecy?
The three commanders eyes wandered for a second. Orion stepped
forward. Umm, the prophecy said nothing of her.
What?
Sam stepped forward. Whoa, but Zola said something about four
humans.
Orions eyes widened and he turned to Zola. She shrugged her shoulders.
Umm, I could have been mistaken?
I stepped forward. But then why am I here?
Moral support?
Orion stepped forward. Alright. Enough of this. We are wasting time.
The others nodded. Orion cleared his throat. Okay, Edward. You will come
with us as we begin to train you for commandership. Samuel you will be
trained as an archer. Zola, please watch over him. Youre all dismissed.
They nodded and everyone went back to their jobs. Sam turned to us.
Well, Ill see you guys later. I have to go to archery practice. He grinned
and ran off towards Zola.
I turned to Eddie. So, a king, huh?
He shook his head. This is insane. I dont even know what Im doing.
I sighed. Eddie, umm I mean Edward, Im sure you will be amazing.
He forced a smile. Yeah, King Edward, it has a nice ring to it. He said.
I started to laugh. Just then, I heard someone clear his throat. We turned
towards the tent. Orion was holding open the flap and motioning for Eddie to
come inside. No, come on! We are bonding again!
Eddie turned back to me. Umm, well I guess I better go.
I smiled. Yeah. Ill find you later. Maybe we can go on a walk or
something?
He smiled. Definitely. He started to walk towards the tent.
He waved at me and then I waved back. Then he turned around and
ducked inside. Orion nodded at Eddie when he passed him. Then Orion
looked to me. He bowed his head in my direction and then went inside.

50
 Well, that was creepy.
I looked around. Yeah, I was alone. I was still trying to comprehend the
fact that we were here, and what was happening. I was slowly starting to
wrap my mind around it. This was some dream. I looked around. Well, what
should I do now? I decided to go find Sam. At least I knew him. I started to
walk to where he ran off to with Zola.
After a few minutes, I could see him in the distance. I walked towards
them. Sam waved when he saw me. Zola told him to focus. He apologized. I
sat down in the field. I watched Sam for a few minutes. He wasnt that bad.
After a while, I lied down and my mind started to wander. Why wasnt I
part of the prophecy? Did Zola lie just to get me to come along? I had no
idea. This was so crazy. What was Orion saying about Eddies destiny? How
could he have known? Where was this Deonesus? Why havent we gone to
get Noah yet? I missed Noah.
But the question that was the biggest in my head and that freaked me out
the most was, did I just make a date with Eddie? Crap, I did. This was bad.
Lily was going to kill me. But wait, Eddie didnt say no, so maybe he actually
wanted to go with me. Or maybe his was just being nice, and he would blow
me off. No, Eddie wouldnt do that. Ah! This is so complicated. I seriously
thought about this for like three hours straight.
Finally, Zola called it a day. We followed her back to the camp. She led us
to a tent next to the commanders tent. This is your tent. I think there
should be enough beds for you. There are clothes and food inside. Im in the
tent across the way with my brother. She paused. Good job today Sam.
Same thing tomorrow.
Sam smiled. Thanks. Night Zola!
She waved and walked into her tent. Sam looked at me and shrugged.
Shes in love with me. I cant help it.
I rolled my eyes. I doubt it.
His mouth dropped open. Ah, Im hurt! I thought that we were tight Mal!
Whatever. Come on, lets go inside.
He started to walk towards the tent and held open the flap for me. We
walked inside and our mouths dropped open. This place was awesome. Like
seriously, it was a palace. Well, not in size, but in looks and furniture. We sat
down on the couches and looked around. Sam managed to speak.
This place is epic.
I nodded. Sam got up and walked over to a chest on the ground. He
opened it up and gasped. He held up a shirt. Whoa! Major time warp! Look
at these clothes. We probably look ridiculous to them now.
I got up and walked over to him. Wow, these clothes looked seriously

51
medieval. This was kind of fun. I grabbed a dress. Do they seriously expect
us to wear this?
Sam nodded. I guess so.
I grabbed the dress and went behind the screen. Well, lets see how they
look.
I took off my old clothes and put the emerald green dress over my head. I
put my arms through the sleeves and smoothed out the bottom. I laced up
the front and pulled it tight. God, I couldnt breathe. I hated this. But I knew
that it was frowned upon for me to just wear one of those loose shirts. I got
the feeling that this was a pretty old fashioned place. I exhaled as much as I
could, which was hardly any, and I walked out from behind the screen.
I raised an eyebrow when I saw Sam. He was wearing a puffy shirt and a
huge hat with a feather in it. He held his arms out when he saw me. So,
what do you think?
You cant be serious. I managed.
He started to laugh. Ha, yeah. There is no way that I would wear this. He
said taking it off. He held it in his hands. Maybe someday. He sighed and
took off his clothes until he just had a flannel shirt on and pants. He then
looked back at me. So, hows that dress treating, you?
I touched my stomach. Painful. I winced.
Well you look hot.
I turned to him. Shut up. Do I really?
He nodded suavely.
I smiled. Are there any shoes in the chest? I asked.
He shook his head. I have no idea. Lets see. He walked over to the
chest and dug around for a second. He pulled out a pair of ballet flats. He
winged them at me and I shielded my face with my arms. I groaned.
Was that really necessary? I asked annoyed standing up and walking
over to where the shoes landed.
I think it was.
You are so difficult. I said, picking up the shoes and walking back over to
the couch.
Id prefer the term unpredictable.
I nodded. Difficult. I said sitting down on the couch and putting on the
shoes.
Unpredictable.
Just then, the flap of the tent opened. Eddie walked in looking very tired.
He exhaled deeply and sat down on the other couch. He rubbed his eyes.
Sam cleared his throat.
So, what do you think of our new duds?

52
 Eddie raised an eyebrow, looked at Sam and then at me. You cant be
serious.
I shrugged and smiled.
He shook his head. Im not wearing clothes like that. You look ridiculous.
My mouth dropped open. Oh wow, ouch!
He stopped me. Sam, you look ridiculous. He said turning to Sam.
I laughed. Sam held his arms out. Dude, I look great.
Eddie nodded. Yeah, okay. He said skeptically.
Sam shrugged. Well, make fun of me all you want because you have to
wear the clothes too.
No, I dont.
Yup, this is their version of a t-shirt. He said motioning to his shirt.
Eddie groaned. Damn.
Mmhmm, so shut your mouth.
Eddie stood up and rolled his eyes. He turned to me. So, how about that
walk?
I felt myself blushing. I hated it. I tried to stop. I need to stop before it
gets embarrassing. He held out his hand. I took it.
Sam whistled. Well, you know what? Im really tired. I think that Im going
to call it a night. Dont be too loud when you come back in. He said suavely.
Eddie rolled his eyes. Come on Mallory.
I turned to Sam and smiled. He gave me a thumbs-up. I rolled my eyes. I
followed Eddie out of the tent. We started to walk along the path in silence. It
was awkward, to be honest. But I didnt know what to say to him. I crossed
my arms. After a few seconds, I turned to him.
So, how was training?
He shrugged. Fine, I guess. He paused. I still cant believe were here,
actually doing this. They treated me like a commander, which was strange,
and I havent gotten used to it yet, but Im working on it. They showed me
maps and we started training. I mean, I dont know. It was good.
That sounds cool.
Yeah, its just so much pressure, you know? They treat me like some kind
of god like Ill solve all their problems for them. Its crazy. They all look up to
me. I dont know if I can lead them. I mean, I just got there.
Eddie, youre good. Youre the best shot that they have.
Youre just saying that.
Sort of, but he was just so attractive. I couldnt help it.
No I mean it. What would all of the kids back at school think of this if
they could see you right now? I asked.
They would probably think that Im crazy. He said as he started to laugh.

53
 No, I mean see you like being king of this place. They would be like holy
crap! I could never do something like that! But if anyone could, it would be
Eddie.
He laughed. This is some motivational speech.
And me? They would be like: Holy crap! What the heck has Watto gotten
herself into this time! She doesnt deserve to be My voice lost its power
as I said the last part because I realized that it was true. I shook my head
quickly. Umm, I mean
He stopped me. Mallory, the problem is that they just dont know about
the real you.
Oh and you do?
He shrugged. I mean, Im starting to.
I forced a smile.
But, everyone else, they only know about Watto, the girl that Lily makes
you be He paused for a second. He put his hand on his face. Oh my god,
my girlfriend is a bitch.
I shook my head. No Eddie, I paused, nodding. Well kind of, but its
fine. I can handle it.
Realization spread across his face. I am a horrible human being. He said
sadly. I am so sorry.
Eddie, stop that. Youre fine. Really, it doesnt matter. Youve shown me
that you arent. Its just in school and stuff. At home youre
He stopped me again. At home I am a completely different person! I
know! Its so much easier at home
This time, I stopped him. With Noah?
He nodded.
We were silent for a second. He looked at me. And, no not with Sam.
I laughed. I figured that.
He put his hands in his pockets. I mean dont get me wrong, I love
school. I love my friends. I love my teams. I love everything about it. I love
who I am.
I picked up on the fact that he didnt say that he loved Lily.
I forced a smile. Well, I like the other you better.
I can see that.
The school you is a jerk. I admitted.
He laughed. Oh thanks.
But we arent at school, so youre good.
He smiled. I know.
We were silent again for a minute. I looked down. Do they have a plan for
getting Noah back?

54
 Not that I know of.
I sighed. Really? I asked annoyed.
I know. Im not too happy about it either.
We need to find him.
He forced a smile. I think that this thing would be so much easier if he
was around.
I shook my head. I cant believe that we didnt believe him in the first
place.
Yeah, who knew right?
I looked back up. I still cant believe that this is happening. If time works
like Noah said it did, then that robber is still in the house.
Wow, I forgot all about that.
I nodded. I know. I cant even think about any of that anymore.
Yeah Celestia is pretty overwhelming.
Tell me about it. I laughed.
He sighed deeply. Can I ask you something Mallory?
My heart beat faster but I nodded.
Do you think that they are telling us the real prophecy?
Oh. I paused, not expecting him to say that. I shrugged. I dont know
Eddie. I mean they seemed jumpy when you asked them, so my gut instinct
would be no. I guess that well just have to wait and see. I said.
Its so weird. I asked Orion about it, but he changed the subject. He
replied.
Oh really? I yawned.
By then, we had been walking for a while. Eddie smiled. Wanna go
back? He asked.
No.
Sure.
We started to walk back slowly, just talking about random stuff. Really, I
was starting to like this guy, like really, really. He was so nice! Now granted,
it was probably just because he felt super bad for ignoring me, but there was
a little part of me that thought that maybe he a little bit liked me too. I dont
know. Its crazy, right?
We made it to the tent. He held open the flap for me. I walked in quietly.
Sam was asleep on one of the couches. Eddie sat down on the other. I sat
down in the big chair. Eddie fell down onto the couch and put his hands on
his face.
He sighed. Good night.
I smiled. Good night.
Hopefully one of us wakes up back in Napa.

55
 If only. I smiled.
I got comfortable and tried to fall asleep. It wasnt working. I was
forgetting something. After a few minutes, I sat up. I turned to Eddie.
Eddie?
Hmm. He breathed with his eyes closed.
Umm, thanks for saving my life today. I said slowly.
Anytime, Mal.
My eyes widened. He just called me Mal! Thats the first time hes done
that in six years! Oh my god! This is so exciting! I looked at him, my heart
beating fast. You just called me Mal!
He opened one of his eyes and looked at me. Umm, thats your name
isnt it? He asked confused.
Well yeah, but you usually call me Mallory.
He scrunched his eyebrows. Did I do something wrong? He asked.
I smiled. No, nothing at all. Good night Eddie.
Umm, okay. Night.
I shut my eyes. Okay, maybe Im overreacting but: this was the best day
of my life. I seriously did not want it to end. I liked this place.

When I woke up the next morning, it was light out. I rubbed my eyes. I looked
around the tent. Sam was on the ground, eating breakfast. When he saw me,
he smiled.
Morning sunshine! How was your night?
I rolled my eyes. Fine, why?
Oh nothing, just wondering. He said innocently.
I nodded slowly. I looked around the room. We were alone. Hey, wheres
Eddie?
Wouldnt you like to know? He smirked.
Oh my god Sam. Just drop it.
He left a little while ago to go train. He said something about meeting us
in the afternoon or something like that.
Really? I asked quickly.
Yeah, so can you hurry up and get ready?
Oh, yeah sorry.
I got up and grabbed a dark pink dress from the chest. I freshened up and
slipped back on my shoes. I ran out from behind the screen. Sam was
standing up and grabbing his bow. I grabbed my dagger from the chair. I put
it in my belt. I grabbed Sams arm and dragged him out of the tent with me.
He yelped but followed me.
Geez, Mal. Excited much?

56
 I stopped running. Sorry, Its just that were, were late. I stuttered.
He raised an eyebrow. Right. He said skeptically.
I looked at him. You dont believe me?
He looked at me sarcastically. Mal, you just cant wait for him to save
your life again, can you?
No, really I cant.
My mouth dropped open. Sam!
What? I couldnt help myself! You people are just so interesting!
You were listening last night? I thought that you were asleep. I said
annoyed.
He rolled his eyes. Yeah, big deal. What I want to know is when you two
are going to stop denying the fact that you are completely and totally in love
with each other and just embrace it. He said bluntly.
I stopped myself from laughing out loud. Eddie was not in love with me.
My mouth dropped open again. Sam! I paused. Is it really that
obvious? I asked slowly.
Elementary, my dear Watson. He said in a British accent.
Of course.
I rolled my eyes. Wow, you were waiting to use that one werent you?
Yes, but dont change the subject. You two need to get together. He
said.
Not going to happen.
Why the hell not? He whined.
I paused. Well number one, hes dating Lily. Number two, he doesnt like
me, that much. And number three, its complicated.
Sam rolled his eyes. Mal, were in a freaking fantasyland. I think that
anythings possible.
Anything is possible. Ill have to remember that.
I managed a smile. Yeah, I guess. So, wheres Zola?
He perked right up and started to walk faster. Well she said she would
meet us out by the targets so, hey! There she is!
He ran into the field and towards the targets. Zola was waiting. When we
got to her, she waved. Lets go Sam.
Sam nodded and started to practice. I watched as she taught him a bunch
of trick shots. I was surprised how good he was.
After about a half an hour, I got really bored. This was pointless. I wasnt
doing anything. I sat up in the field. Hey Zola?
She sighed and turned to me. What?
Are you busy at the second?
She rolled her eyes. Why?

57
 Well, I was thinking that maybe you could show me a few moves. I said
sheepishly.
She raised an eyebrow. Cant you see that I am helping Sam? She said
annoyed.
Just then, Sam turned. Zola its fine. I got it.
She rolled her eyes. Ugh, fine. Grab your dagger.
I jumped up and grabbed it. She started to teach me some basic moves.
After about an hour, I thought that I was doing pretty well. I was impressed
with myself. I could get used to this. Sure, I probably looked like an idiot but I
needed to be able to defend myself.
We took a break for a few minutes. She went back to teaching Sam a new
move. I sat back down in the grass. Then I got bored again.
I got up and decided to take a walk, just around the field. I started to walk
around, and after a few minutes I was on the other side. The trees were so
beautiful. It was like a different world over here compared to the winter
wonderland on the other side of the waterfall.
I turned around. Zola and Sam were just little specks in the distance. I
could see others coming up next to them. I could see Zola pointing in my
direction. They all turned in my direction, so I waved. One of them started to
walk towards me. I kind of really hoped that it was Eddie. I smiled and
started to walk towards him.
Just then, I heard a twig snap behind me. I whirled around and gasped as
three of Bernards wolves stalked towards me. No! How did they get here?
How did they just sneak past the army? I reached for my dagger and started
to back away.
One of the wolves snarled. Oh, I wouldnt do that if I were you.
My heart leapt to my throat. I started to stutter. You, you just talked. I
said in disbelief, pointing at the wolf.
Yes, human. It turned to the other wolf. Report back to the Lord. Tell
him that we have captured another and will be bringing her shortly.
The other wolf nodded and ran off towards the woods. I kept walking
backwards slowly. Where are you taking me? I demanded.
The two wolves started to advance on me. Lord Bernard wishes for your
company as he prepares to defeat these creatures. It sneered.
Not going to happen.
Pity. I guess we will have to drag you there instead. It growled.
I turned and started to run, but the wolf lunged at me. It pulled me down
by my dress. I cried out, but I dont think anyone heard me. I whirled around.
I tried to scoot away for them but they kept advancing. My mind was going a
hundred and eighty miles an hour. I was trying to think of a plan. I looked up

58
at the wolves. I swear that they were smiling at me. I looked around
frantically.
Just then, the wolf in front pounced at me. I gasped and kicked it away. It
yelped and fell to the ground. I exhaled deeply and my eyes whipped to the
other wolf pacing in front of me. It pounced. I screamed and put my arm out
to shield myself. I shut my eyes. I felt a burning pain in my forearm. I cried
out in pain. I opened my eyes and saw the wolf had bitten my arm. I kept
screaming.
Oh my god!
Just then, someone tackled the wolf off of me and it let go of my arm. I
gasped and stared at the teeth marks in my arm. The teeth had torn through
my dress sleeve. There was blood everywhere. I clutched my arm and looked
up. My eyes widened when I saw Eddie wrestling with the wolf. I saw his
sword lying a few feet from him out of his reach. He flipped the wolf over his
head and his eyes flew to me.
Mallory! The dagger! He cried, reaching out his hand.
What? I asked dazed.
Your dagger! He cried again.
I reached for my belt and unsheathed the dagger. I threw it towards him
and he caught it. He whirled around as the other wolf lunged at him. He
jabbed the dagger through the wolfs chest as it pounced on top of him. The
wolf howled and then was silent. Eddie pulled the dagger out and pushed the
wolf off of him. He threw the dagger down and scrambled up as the other
wolf circled him. I watched in awe, but winced. My arm was throbbing. Eddie
lunged over to his sword and scooped it up from the ground. He whirled
around and held the sword out in front of him, putting himself between me
and the wolf. He looked at the wolf hatefully. He was breathing deeply.
The wolf snarled at him. Coward. You dont have the guts to finish me
off.
Eddie gulped. Well I just killed your friend, so try me. He said angrily.
Suddenly the others were there. Sam tried to lunge forward but Orion held
him back. Eddies eyes never left the wolf. The wolf looked at all of us and
then back at Eddie. It snarled once again and tore off towards the woods.
Orion stepped forward. After him! Bring back the boy. He pointed.
Ten of the soldiers ran off after the wolf, leaving just Orion, Zola, and Sam
behind. I winced again. My arm was still burning. I bit my lip and tried not to
cry out in pain. I shut my eyes and a tear rolled down my cheek.
Mallory! I heard Eddie cry.
Yeah? I managed.
I felt someone touch my arm. Your arm.

59
 I blinked a few times and bit back the tears.
Oh my god. He said moving my blood-covered hand.
I looked away.
Are you okay? How bad does it hurt?
I swallowed deeply, tears streaming down my face.
I am so sorry. He said quietly.
I shook my head. Its not your fault.
I should have gotten here sooner. He sighed.
I forced a small smirk. I was handling them just fine.
He laughed. We make a good team.
I looked back at him and smiled. I suppose.
Our eyes met for a few seconds. I wanted to kiss him again. I thought
about it. I wondered if he was thinking about it. I doubted it considering the
fact he had a girlfriend, but he didnt look away from me.
Our moment was broken by Orion handing down a piece of cloth. Here.
He said sternly. Wrap it in this. We will dress the wound back at camp.
Come.
I took the piece of cloth from him and wrapped it around my forearm. It
instantly soaked with blood. My arm was still throbbing. Orion helped me
stand and led me back towards the camp. Was he seriously doing this right
now? Was he oblivious or was he purposely not letting Eddie and I be around
each other?
The three followed us back to camp. Orion ushered me into a tent with a
bunch of herbal supplies and pieces of cloth. Eddie followed him into the
tent. Orion picked me up and set me down on the table. I held my arm out
slowly. God, it hurt. Orion unwrapped the blood-soaked piece of cloth and cut
off the sleeve of my dress with a knife. He quickly began to inspect the
wound. It hurt and I kept wincing. He never apologized. He just kept looking
and poking. Finally he nodded.
The teeth did not break the bone.
Eddie exhaled with relief and shut his eyes.
I tried to force a smile. Thats good.
Yes, but the punctures are quite deep. If the wolf had bit down a second
longer, the bone would have snapped.
I looked at Eddie, who was staring at me. I dont know why he still looked
so concerned. The worse was over. He had already saved me. I would be
alright. His furrowed brow told me he thought otherwise.
I looked back to Orion. Can you make it stop throbbing? I winced.
He nodded. Yes. He said, reaching for a piece of cloth.
He reached for five different herbs and started to crush them in a bowl.

60
He spread the paste across the piece of cloth and folded the cloth over my
arm. It burned for a second but then felt cold. He wrapped the cloth and
nodded again.
There.
Thank you. I smiled.
Yes. He whirled around. Come Edward. He said gesturing for Eddie to
follow him out of the tent.
Eddie followed him without a word, leaving me alone in the tent.
I sighed deeply. Well, that was anticlimactic. I looked down at my arm. It
had begun to sting and I had a hard time moving my fingers. I bit my lip.
Suddenly, the tent flap opened and Eddie came back into the tent. I
looked at him confused as he walked towards me. He stopped in front of me
and kissed me suddenly. I was pushed back as he leaned over me, but I
kissed him with relief. He let go of me and smiled, our foreheads still
touching.
Now were even. He smirked.
I stared at him wide-eyed with my mouth still open. He backed out of the
tent slowly and the smirk on his face turned slowly into a smile. I kept staring
at him with my mouth hanging open.
Slowly, I smiled back at him, still in awe of what just happened. He
disappeared through the flap and I was alone once again. I put my hand over
my mouth and tried to not jump around and squeal like a teenage girl. I
would contain myself.
But seriously, did that just happen? I blinked a few times.
The tent flap opened again and Sam ducked inside. He smirked. So?
I put my hand down. What?
He looked at me expectantly and after a second, he sighed. Hows your
arm? He asked.
I nodded. Its okay. Im wishing for some stitches and pain killers
though.
He forced a smile. Yeah, thats great. He paused and nodded. So when
are you and Eddie gonna get together?
I looked at him confused. Umm, I dont, what? I asked.
He groaned. Dont even deny it.
I looked down. Well, I mean...
I knew it! I totally told you so! He said triumphantly.
Told me what?
That you two were in love.
Were not in love.
I beg to differ. He smirked.

61
 I shook my head. Sam, Eddie is not in love with me.
He pointed at me. But you love him.
I swallowed. Eddie is not in love with me. I repeated.
He nodded once. Maybe not yet.
Ever. I corrected.
He looked at me like it was obvious that I was wrong. Mal.
Sam, I dont know what two people you are thinking of right now, but its
certainly not Eddie and I. I said, standing up.
He followed me out of the tent. I started to walk down the path. He caught
up with me. Mal, but you have to admit that this is a step in the right
direction though.
It really is, but I cant let him know that. I am not letting him make fun of
me for being that girl.
I shrugged. A small one.
A small one? Seriously? He asked annoyed. No, this is like a gigantic
freaking leap across the ocean. He hated you like a week ago.
I realize that Sam, which is why Im not counting on this working out.
Mal, would it kill you to have a little optimism? You know, the glass is half
full. He leaned in close to me. Of love. He said suavely.
I laughed and pushed him away from me. Shut up.
We reached the clearing of the archery range. Zola was standing there
shooting arrows. She whirled around when she saw us and looked at me
angrily. I was very confused. Extremely confused.
I looked at Sam. Umm...
He nodded. Yeah, shes pissed at you.
What? Why?
Because of you and Eddie.
What? I asked confused.
Yeah, shes not to fond of the fact that youre winning.
I swallowed deeply. Oh.
So, umm, Im gonna go distract her and you run. He nodded walking
towards her.
I turned around and ran back towards camp. I pushed the flap back on my
tent and went inside. I touched my face and tried to stop myself from
smiling.
Eddie kissed me.
After I kissed him.
I take back what I said before about ever wanting to leave. I loved this
land. I loved Celestia. I was never leaving.
My arm throbbing pulled me out of my daydreaming. I reached down and

62
touched the cloth gently. It hurt to touch. I swallowed deeply. I sat down on
the couch and shut my eyes to stop some of the throbbing. It sounded like a
better idea in my head than it actually was.
I wasnt sure what kind of herbs Orion had mixed in the medicine but my
eyes started to droop. I lied down, with the hopes of feeling better once I
woke up. I was still slightly unconscious when I heard trumpets in the
distance a long while later.
I shot upright. Trumpets? Those are usually good right? I jumped up and
ran towards the opening of the tent. Soldiers everywhere were stopping what
they were doing and looking to the path. I squinted. There were ten soldiers
walking towards the commanders tent.
Wait, make that eleven.
There was a small dwarf or something leading them. He had his sword
raised and was marching proudly towards the tent. He was wearing a
Batman shirt. That was no dwarf! It was Noah! Oh my god, he was alive! This
was so great. Thank god!
I exhaled with relief and ran forward. The soldiers marched and stopped in
front of the commanders tent. Orion emerged and nodded at the soldiers.
They bowed and went back to their duties.
Just then, Eddie emerged from the tent behind Orion. His eyes widened
and he ran passed him. When Noah saw him, his mouth dropped open. He
dropped the sword and ran towards Eddie with his arms open. Eddie reached
him and scooped him up in his arms. I walked towards them, thankful and
speechless. He was alive. He was safe. He was alive. He was with us. I
stopped in front of him and Eddie. Noah saw me and reached out to me. I
took him from Eddie.
Mal! I missed you!
I rubbed his head and held him close to me. Noah, Noah, oh my god.
My eyes widened when I saw the bruises on his body and his split lip.
Mal, its okay.
No, we were so worried.
Eddie started to rub Noahs back. Noah, you shouldnt have left like
that.
But, but I left a note! He cried.
Still.
But you guys wouldnt have gone! I had to find Mr. Underwood.
I know, I know.
I found him. Noah said, his eyes darting back and forth between the two
of us.
What? Where?

63
 He was in the dungeon cell next to me. We had a little window where we
could talk to each other and we developed a tapping system for talking to
each other silently. Like A is one tap. He said tapping his hand on my
shoulder. B is two taps. He said tapping twice. C is one short tap and
then one long tap.
Eddie nodded. Thats cool Noah. He said, even though I knew he didnt
mean it.
So wheres Deonesus? I have to talk to him.
I sighed. We havent seen him. He hasnt been here yet.
Oh. Noah said sadly.
Just then, someone behind us spoke. Noah?
We turned. Sam was standing there with Zola. Noahs eyes widened.
Sam! He cried.
I set him down and he ran towards him. Eddie and I watched as Sam
picked him up and hugged him. Noah was so excited. Sam secretly looked
relieved. Eddie stood next to me. He swallowed deeply.
Mal, they locked him in the dungeon. They locked an eight-year-old in a
dungeon. Did you see the bruises on him? Bernard punished him for trying to
escape.
I sighed. I know. I said, rubbing his back.
Hes a dead man when I get my hands on him. He hissed.
No, calm down. Now is not the time.
I dont know whats worse, the fact that I want to kill Bernard or the fact
that Noah didnt even seem to care what Bernard did to him.
What? Treat him like a prisoner?
Eddie nodded and looked at me.
I shrugged. Eddie, hes eight. It was an adventure for him. He probably
loved it.
Well, he shouldnt have.
I know.
Sam walked over with Noah and cleared his throat. We looked at him. Sam
nodded. Okay, well, play time with Sam over. He said setting Noah back
down in front of us.
Noah looked at me. He gasped when he saw my arm. Mal, what
happened? He asked concerned, touching it gently.
I knelt down next to him and held out my arm. Well Noah, see I was
walking in the field over there, watching Zola and Sam practice archery. But
thats when the wolves surrounded me!
His eyes widened.
I nodded. It was terrifying, Noah. They wanted to take me back to

64
Bernard and hold me as a prisoner. I wasnt as brave as you were. Eddie had
to save me. I looked up at Eddie and Sam, who had been whispering but
stopped when they saw me looking. I forced a smile. Long story short, I got
bit by a wolf.
Sam laughed. And surprisingly that wasnt the most eventful moment of
the journey! You forgot the part where we swung across a waterfall and got
chased by Bernard and heard about a prophecy! He said fake excited.
Noah sighed. Aw, I missed all the fun stuff. He moped.
I looked at Eddie, telling him with my eyes to fix this. He nodded and
hopefully he understood what I meant. He turned walked up to Orion. They
started to converse deeply.
After a few minutes, Orion cleared his throat. I have decided that tonight
there will be a feast held in honor of our brave young man Noahs return.
Noah looked up at me excited. A feast! For me! Oh this is the best day
ever!
Everyone cheered. The sun started to set. Preparations for the party
began immediately. Orion stepped inside the tent. Eddie followed him. Sam
nodded. Okay well, Ive got some bonding to do with a mountain guardian.
Zola? Noah laughed.
Shut up! Sam said defensively, pushing past him.
Noah looked at me. What was wrong with him? Did I miss something?
I snorted. Not really.
He looked at me curiously.
Come on. Ill fill you in while they are setting up the feast for you.
I led him into our tent. His eyes widened when he saw the inside. Cool!
He said as he jumped up on one of the couches.
You want to see something really cool? I asked.
What? He said sitting down on the couch.
I walked over to the chest and opened it. New clothes.
His mouth dropped open. I grabbed a shirt and put it on him. He thought
that it was the coolest thing ever. It seriously took me like half an hour to
get him dressed because he wanted to try on everything. When we finally
found something that he liked, I got him dressed. He plopped down on the
couch and insisted on telling me his adventure for the third time.
After he was done, I attempted to tell him everything that we learned
about the prophecy and the battle and everything else. He was seriously
freaking out and kept telling me that he told me so in the first place.
Finally, after I finished, I could hear music playing outside. We got up and
went out of the tent. Wow, there was food, dancing, singing, you name it.
The soldiers were already hooting and hollering with each other. I walked

65
Noah up to the front commanders tent where Orion was waiting for him.
Orion squatted down and began to speak with Noah. Noah listened intently
and nodded a bunch of times.
The tent flap opened again and I looked up. I smiled as Eddie emerged. He
exhaled deeply as he looked around, his cheeks red and his hair pushed out
of his face. God he was attractive. He smiled when he saw me and walked
towards me. He slid his hand into mine and pulled me along with him to the
feast. We pushed past Zola, who was walking the other way, probably
looking for Sam.
Eddie turned back to look at me. We are so monumentally screwed.
I scrunched my eyebrows. What?
For the battle.
Why? I asked concerned.
He shook his head. Bernard has just recruited the minotaurs.
Uh...
Theyre bad news apparently.
Oh. I said quietly.
So I think its safe to say were monumentally screwed.
I nodded. They dont have a plan at all?
Eddie shrugged. Kind of.
Kind of? I asked confused.
He pulled out a chair for me and I sat down. He walked around to my right
side and sat down next to me. I may have figured out a way to save us.
Can you tell me or is it classified? I laughed.
He exhaled. I dont know... He said, his voice lingering.
I raised my eyebrows.
He shrugged. Well, I guess I can risk it. He said, sitting forward. Okay,
remember the Sonoma Heights football game last fall?
I looked at him like it was obvious. No. I finally said.
Werent you at that game?
No.
Really? He asked confused.
Why are you surprised by this? I laughed.
He shrugged. I guess, I just thought that you...
I cut him off and raised my eyebrows. That I secretly went to every single
game to stalk you because I was secretly obsessed with you?
Was? He challenged, laughing again.
The color drained from my face. Hes making this seem like a pity
relationship. Like hes some celebrity who is gracing me with his presence. I
shook my head annoyed and crossed my arms.

66
 Eddie thats getting really annoying.
What? He asked innocently.
You think youre a god who is gracing me with your presence and its not
funny anymore.
He shook his head. Im not...
Yes, you think Im obsessed and in love with you, just because Im less
popular than you are.
Whyd you kiss me then?
I looked away from him. Whyd you kiss me back?
He swallowed. Because I like you.
And I like you too, but youre making me feel like an idiot.
He reached over to touch my hand. Youre not an idiot.
I turned back to face him. I feel like it.
Look Mal. Im trying, I really am. Its just hard to you know after all this
time, He paused. Like someone who isnt your girlfriend.
Because you already have one of those.
He sighed. Mallory.
So are we going to talk about her or no? I asked, bitter.
I dont want to. He groaned.
I looked down. You dont want to be with her. I know you dont.
Yeah and here Im not, so lets just forget about it.
Eddie she doesnt deserve to be cheated on.
He looked at me confused. Um, Im sorry, this is Lily Bennett were
talking about right?
I tried not to smile. Yes.
I can name probably seven other guys that she is hooking up with.
My mouth dropped open. Why do you
He shrugged. I dont know. Its all about popularity.
I sighed. Of course it is.
Shes Queen Bee and she needs a king. Who better than the class
president star athlete?
I shook my head, realizing just how shallow he really was. Thats messed
up Eddie.
Its not all bad.
It sounds like it.
He shook his head again. I mean, Im used to it at this point. It works. We
fit together well.
I looked away from him again. So thats why you kissed me.
He groaned. Mallory, Im glad Lily isnt here. Its cleared my head. Now I
can think straight. Now I dont feel pressured. He paused. I can be with

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who I want.
I sighed.
You. He finished. Beautiful, adorable, smart, caring Mallory.
My cheeks reddened as I looked back to him. Was he seriously saying
these things about me? I had to be dreaming.
He forced a small smile and pushed my hair behind my ear.
I swallowed and leaned closer to him. So do you always know exactly
what to say?
He grinned, pulling me in for a kiss.
I shut my eyes with relief. It felt amazing to kiss him. God it felt amazing.
He kissed me again. Even. He said quietly. Again.
I laughed.
Come on lets dance. He said, pulling me away from the table.
So we danced. And then we ate and were merry. It was great. I didnt
realize that a feast could be this fun. I seriously could have done that for the
rest of my life. It was nothing like parties back home.
Not that I would know, considering the fact that Id never really been to a
party back home. But I could get used to this! Eddie was so great. I thought
he would be distracted with all of this king stuff, but no! He only wanted to
talk to me, about anything and everything. I was still in shock, but it didnt
matter. Whatever it was, I seriously liked it.
The festivities died down a few hours later. I walked back to the table and
got Noah. He was busy telling these big guys about all of his action figures. I
dont really think that they understood what he was talking about though,
but bless their hearts, they let him go on about it anyway.
I picked him up, he said goodbye to the men and we walked back to the
tent. He scrambled inside. When I walked inside, Eddie and Sam were talking
intensely, but stopped as I walked in.
Sam took a deep breath. Well, umm, Im gonna go to bed now. He said
awkwardly, laying down and closing his eyes. Peace out.
Okay, what was that all about?
Eddie was sitting on the ground and Noah ran over to sit down next to
him. Noah turned to me and patted the spot next to him. I smiled and sat
down.
He took a deep breath and exhaled deeply. This is fun. We should stay
here forever.
Both Eddies eyes and mine widened as we looked at each other. I had
forgotten all about home. I mean, I wanted to stay, but I knew that wed have
to wake up sometime. What were we supposed to say? No? We couldnt say
no! That would kill him.

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 Eddie sighed. Well see Noah.
Noah turned around to face us. When I was talking to Mr. Underwood, he
said that he would really like to meet you guys. We should go get him after
we win the war thing.
Sure. Eddie replied. We definitely will.
Noah rubbed his eyes and yawned.
I rubbed his shoulder. Are you tired? You want to go to bed?
No, Im fine. He turned and put his head on Eddies legs and he
stretched out and put his legs on my lap. Maybe, Ill just take a little nap
Eddie reached for his arm. No, umm, Noah. Thats not what she meant.
But it was too late. Noah got comfortable and closed his eyes. We
watched him in silence as he drifted off to sleep.
I turned to Eddie slowly. My voice was a whisper. Should we move him?

Eddie shrugged. Well let him sleep for a little bit.

We were silent for a minute. I nodded. So, are we staying here forever?
He shook his head. I have no idea. I mean, this isnt our real life. He said
slowly.
It could be.
I know, and some parts of me wish that it was, but come on Mallory. This
isnt really where were supposed to be.
I sighed. I guess. Its just that I like this life a whole lot better than the
other one. I said as I looked up at him.
He forced a smile. That might partially be my fault.
I rolled my eyes. You think? I asked sarcastically.
He started to laugh, so I did too. Sam rolled over. Oh my god, will you
two just go to sleep? He moaned.
Sorry. We both said sheepishly.
Eddie put his head back against the couch and closed his eyes. I did the
same, realizing that we werent going to move Noah.
I opened my eyes after a minute. So are you going to tell me about the
plans or no? I whispered.
Itll be a surprise.
I sighed. Fine.
Night Mallory.
I smiled. Good night Eddie.
I could get used to this. I took a few deep breaths. Before I knew it, I was
sound asleep. I dont remember my dreams. Actually, I havent had a dream
since Ive been here. Maybe because I was living one.

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The next morning, I woke up to Noah staring at me, two inches from my face.
Mal? What are you doing?
I jolted awake. I looked around and saw Eddie and I cuddled up next to
each other. When I jumped, he woke up immediately.
I turned back to Noah. What do you mean?
Why didnt you guys sleep on the couch? Its more comfortable!
My eyes widened. Oh, well you fell asleep on top of us so we didnt want
to wake you up.
Sam was sitting on the ground next to us, eating toast. Smooth. He
said sarcastically.
I rolled my eyes. Eddie jumped up. What time is it?
Daytime. He retorted. They dont exactly have clocks here.
Eddie grabbed his sword. Oh crap Im late. He ran towards the door. He
turned around. Umm, Ill come see you guys if I get a break.
We all nodded. He met eyes with me and smiled. My heart skipped a beat.
He ran out of the tent. Noah sat down to eat with Sam. I noticed Noah
seemed really perky today.
Sam looked at me. Yeah, hes been up for like three hours.
I walked over to the chest and grabbed a new dress. I went behind the
screen. I changed quickly, finally getting a hang of the wearing a dress
everyday. I came back out and grabbed some clothes for Noah. I got him
dressed, and then I sat down and ate some food. I was just about to suggest
that we go for a walk when I heard trumpets sounding. Except for this time,
they didnt sound too happy. Noah jumped up and ran out of the tent. He
came back in two seconds later with a panicked look on his face.
Its Bernard! Hes come back for me!
Oh god.
Sam and I both looked at each other. We jumped up and ran out of the
tent. Sure enough, there was a lot of booing and jeering coming from the
soldiers. Zola was standing in front of her tent and was staring at me
intently. I had no idea why.
Orion, Chatura, and Cornelius were standing outside the commanders
tent. Eddie started to walk out too, but Zola ran from her tent and pulled him
away from the tent. She walked with him towards the woods. He seemed
confused, and kept looking back at the camp. I looked after them confused.
Where were they going? Where was she taking him? The three commanders
watched as Bernard rode up on horseback with twenty soldier escorts around
him.
He got off of his horse and walked forward. He looked at us, and then
back at the leaders.

70
 Orion stepped forward. State your business Bernard.
I have come to negotiate about the boy that you stole from my camp
yesterday. He sneered.
Orion looked over at Noah and then back at Bernard. Very well. Come
with us. He said, holding open the tent flap. Bernard smirked at Noah and
followed them inside.
Noah looked up at me. Mal, are they going to take me back? I dont want
to go with them! He cried.
I patted him on the head. No, no, Orion wont let them. Youre fine. I
said reassuringly.
Sam sat down. Well, what I want to know is where Zola took Eddie.
Sounds to me like shes going to make a move on him, and I am not happy
about it. He said, pulling at pieces of grass.
I sat down with him. Noah sat down next to me. I sighed. Sam, Im sure
its fine. I paused. I dont know.
I liked to think that Eddie was only focused on me. But then again, I guess
I didnt know what was going on in his head.
Well, I had time to stew about it. It felt like hours had passed before
Bernard finally emerged from the tent followed by the three commanders.
We all stood up.
He smirked at Noah. I will get you eventually human.
We sighed with relief. Good, he wasnt taking Noah. Thank god. He walked
passed us and got back on his horse. We all watched as he looked down to
one of his minions.
Grab her. He said. And lets go.
My eyes widened as an ugly ogre started to walk towards me.
Sam and Noah looked around confused. What?
The ogre grabbed my arm. No! Oh my god! You cant be serious! No! The
ogre pulled me towards Bernard.
No! You cant do this! Stop! No! I screamed.
Sam and Noahs eyes widened as he pulled me away. They rushed
forward and scream my name, but others held them back. Sam managed to
get past them but they shoved him back, hard. He came at them again, but a
fist connected with his face and he fall back behind the others.
They gave me to Bernard? How dare they? No!
I was about to scream out again when another ogre came up and put a
gag in my mouth. Tears started to stream down my face, and I started to kick
my feet. The other ogre picked me up and bound my feet together. You
cant be serious. I cant believe that they were taking me. No! Eddie
wouldnt let them. Where was he? He could help me! I tried to look around,

71
but I didnt see him anywhere. By this time, we had made it to Bernards
horse.
Bernard was smirking. Okay, just put her right here. He said
triumphantly.
The ogres set me down in between his arms. Oh my god, youve got to be
kidding me. Bernard turned back to the commanders. He nodded and the
commanders did as well. He flicked the reins and just like that we were
racing back to the other camp.
Bernard kept looking down at me and smirking. I just gave him death
glares the whole time. I was seriously pissed off. At everyone. I was in shock
that this was even happening!
We made it to the other camp in about half an hour. The temperature
dropped twenty degrees and the sunny skies had turned gray. Creatures and
beasts filled the campsite. Bernard stopped the horse, but did not get off of
it. He barked orders at the other creatures that had gathered around him.
Okay men. The war has been postponed. I am going to return to the
palace. I wish for you all to stay here and continue to make weapons so that
we will be able to crush Deonesus when he returns. Send a rider if something
comes up. Farewell. He said valiantly.
All the monsters cheered, and we were off again just the two of us. We
rode in silence for a few minutes, during which I continued to try and loosen
the gag on my mouth. Finally, Bernard looked down at me again. I kept
giving him death glares.
He sighed. Oh will you stop looking at me like I am the bad guy? He
asked annoyed.
I rolled my eyes.
I am simply saving you.
What! I raised an eyebrow.
Yes, thats right. Well not you, but your silly little resistance movement.
My expression hardened.
When I entered the tent, I told the men that I was going to attack them in
order to get that child back. What was his name? Bernard paused, thinking.
Right Noah. He was fun to have around. So puny and helpless, yet so
annoying. Well, anyway, they all got very scared and started to plead to me,
asking what is it going to take for me not to attack them now, so I told them
that I would be willing to spare their pathetic army if they would give me
you. Quite frankly, they seemed relieved. They agreed and well, here you
are. So you see? You sacrificed yourself, and now your little movement is
safe, for now.
I struggled and managed to spit out the gag. They would never do that.

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 Oh great! Now were talking again.
Eddie would never give me up. I said, staring at him hatefully.
Oh actually, he was the one who agreed. He seemed quite happy to
oblige. Its almost like you meant nothing to him.
Thats, thats not true. He wasnt in the tent when you were there.
Oh Im almost positive that he was. Bernard argued. Tall, blonde hair,
dreamy blue eyes?
I gulped.
Bernard noticed the expression on my face and nodded. That was
definitely him.
I shook my head. I couldnt believe that. But, but he wouldnt. He would
never do that.
Afraid so Mal. Bernard smirked. Can I call you that? Mal?
No. I spat.
I still couldnt believe that he gave me up.
Oh, well Im going to anyway. So, how have you been since our last
meeting? He said as he looked down at me.
Well I was fine until about an hour ago.
He started to laugh. Oh, youre a funny one. Mothers going to love you.
Where are we going?
Home, of course.
Your stupid ice castle isnt my home. I hissed.
He raised an eyebrow. I would appreciate if you were more open to me.
This is the rest of your life that were talking about.
No. They will come get me.
Mal, you He started but I cut him off.
Dont call me that.
He sighed. They are not going to come get you. They wouldnt dare come
this close.
Then I will escape.
You will not. He replied.
Watch me. I said.
Alright. Well that was good talk. Im just going to put your gag back on
now. He said, reaching up to my mouth.
No! Stop. Its fine. Im not going anywhere. I conceded, my voice
trailing. Unfortunately. I said under my breath.
He nodded. Thats right.
How much longer?
That does not concern you.
Fantastic. This sucked. I decided to not talk to him, with the hope that

73
maybe he will get tired of me and give me back to the others. We rode in
silence for the rest of the trip.
Finally, it got colder and I knew that we were getting closer. I looked
around. Yep, one ice castle dead ahead. Its hard to believe that we were
here with Zola a few days ago. This is insane. We rode up the steps and into
the gate. He stopped the horse and wolves surrounded us. I stared at him.
You can untie me now.
He looked at me skeptically.
I rolled my eyes. Im not going anywhere. No one wants me anyway. I
said sadly.
Now thats what I like to hear! Let me give you the grand tour. He said
happily.
He untied me and I hopped down, rubbing my arm gently. The wolves
snickered at me. Bernard started to drag me towards the grand hall. We
entered and I saw two thrones. One of them was occupied. A dark form was
hovering over the throne on the right with dark green smoke curling off of its
body. I swallowed deeply. Was that Bruhara? I felt a chill in the air, so it
probably was. Bernard approached her.
Hello, mummy. This is Mallory. Deonesuss army traded her to me so
that I would not brutally attack them. He said triumphantly.
The witch stood up and walked towards us. She studied me carefully. She
started to smirk. Yes, the prophecy is working just as planned. Well done,
son. Wait a few days and then attack the army again.
The prophecy? Wait, hold on, what?
Yes maam.
I stepped forward. But, but Im here. You promised that you wouldnt
attack them.
The witch looked at me, cackling. Thats not the way war works human.
Bernard turned to me. Oh, you are highly misinformed.
I shook my head. No. This is ridiculous.
The witch stared at me. Her eyes darkened. Take the human to her
quarters. Shes your responsibility now. She said, coughing.
Bernard stepped forward. Are you alright, mother?
She fell forward a bit as she hobbled away. Leave me.
I scrunched my eyebrows after she disappeared. Whats wrong with
her?
Bernard turned to me. Her power is weakening.
Because of Deonesus.
Yes. He hissed. Your boyfriend and his army are taking quite the toll on
her strength.

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 I sighed. Hes not my... I paused. Deonesus is coming and she will die.
Well too bad you wont be there to see it.
He pulled me along and we went up a different staircase. He pulled open
a door and tossed me inside. I saw a bedroom. There was a very ornate bed,
a small desk, one window, and a dresser. He walked inside after me.
Okay, well this is were you will be staying temporarily. There is a
servants door right there. They will bring you food. Dont get any ideas
about escaping. He said, pointing at me.
I scrunched my eyebrows. Im not staying with you?
He smiled, stepped forward and grabbed my hand. Well eventually yes,
but if youre ready now. His lips were an inch from my face.
I stepped back and slapped him in the face.
His expression hardened as he rubbed the side of his face. Fine. Just
know this. I am trying to be polite. You will spend the rest of your life in this
room. No one will come for you. You will be miserable. I guarantee it. He
roared as he walked to the door and slammed it behind him.
I could hear a bunch of locks turning. I looked around the room. This was
horrible. I cant believe that they just gave me up like that. It was starting to
set in now. I couldnt just walk out of here and walk back to camp. I couldnt
escape. I felt a tear fall down my cheek.
I walked over to the bed and sat down on it. I started to cry. I lost track of
how much time passed, but I guess that it didnt matter. No one really cares
anyway. This sucked. I knew that it was fake the whole time. How could I
have been so stupid? He wouldnt fall for me. He didnt care. None of them
cared. Story of my life.
Hours later, I heard a small cough behind me. I looked up. There was a
very small woman standing in the doorway. Umm, sorry to bother you miss,
but I just came up to introduce myself.
I managed a nod. You can call me Mallory. I said quietly.
She bowed with her head. Yes, Miss Mallory. You may call me Gretta.
I nodded. Hi.
I am head of housekeeping at this horrible palace. If there is anything I
can do to make your life here a bit less miserable, do not hesitate to ask.
I scrunched my eyebrows. You dont like it here?
Oh its dreadful. My sisters and I are forced to wait on these people.
They are rude and brutal. We were captured years ago, and must do
whatever these loathing creatures say. She explained.
That sucks.
She scrunched her eyebrows. Yes Miss, but we are too scared to escape
for fear that they might lock us up in the dungeons. She said slowly.

75
 You know of the dungeons?
Yes, dreadful places. They stretch on for miles underneath the ice. She
said motioning to the window.
Wait, the ice in front of the palace?
Yes, the whole lake.
Oh my god, Noah was under us and we probably walked right over top of
him. I feel so horrible. Gretta must have seen my saddened expression.
Miss, is something wrong?
Oh, umm, well its just that someone I knew was down there. I said
slowly.
You know, now that you mention it, there was a boy down there maybe a
week ago. He was very young. He was human just like you. Poor child. He
never stopped talking. You know what? I think that he mentioned your name
a few times. She said, pausing to think.
Noah? I asked.
Her eyes lit up. Ah yes, that was the boys name. One day, Bernard took
him away. Pity, he was nice company. I hate to think what happened to him.
She said sadly.
I sighed. Hes fine.
What?
Oh, hes umm, well not technically my brother, but kind of. I stuttered.
Pardon me for asking Miss, but you are the humans of the prophecy,
arent you?
I shrugged. I guess so.
Oh, this is splendid. Deonesus will come and we will be free. She said
happily.
I nodded.
She looked at me curiously. You will be free too child.
I nodded. I know.
Do you not want to be free? She asked confused.
I shrugged. I dont want to go back there.
Why not?
Because, they gave me away.
She nodded. They gave you to Bernard as sacrifice?
I nodded once.
Did you agree to this?
I shook my head and my lip quivered. No, I had no idea what they were
doing.
She pulled up a stool and sat down. She patted my leg. Oh dear. I am so
sorry.

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 I swallowed deeply. I still cant believe Im here.
Did you leave your family behind?
I nodded.
Did they protest?
I nodded but then stopped when I realized that Bernard said that Eddie
was the one who agreed to give me away. I looked down and a tear fell out of
my eye.
Gretta looked at me sympathetically. Why dont you tell me everything
and maybe I can help?
You wouldnt understand. I said quietly.
She raised an eyebrow. Try me.
Well its a really long story.
Ive got nothing but time. She challenged.
I exhaled deeply and began to tell her everything that happened since we
got here. I told her about the prophecy, about the camp, about Sam, Noah,
and Eddie. I told her all about Eddie and I and how complicated it was.
Everything. I probably shouldnt have, but at this point there was no stopping
me. She listened intently and after I was done, she stood up.
Im sure that everything will be just fine dear. She said patting my leg
and walking back to the other door. She opened it and looked back at me.
Trust me.
I nodded. With that, she was gone and I was alone. I sighed deeply and
looked around. I found some books in the desk drawer. Realizing they were in
English, I decided to start reading them, needing some way to pass the time.
After a while, Gretta came back in with some food and some bandages.
She treated my wound on my arm. It wasnt healing. I was concerned. I was
hoping that she could do something to make it feel better. My fingers ached
every time I move them. After she had finished redressing the wound, I went
back to my reading.
It was starting to get dark. There was a window seat next to the window. I
sat down in it and looked out over the forest. I looked up at the sky. I saw the
stars. Well, I guess that I better get used to this.
I heard a knock on the door. I spun around. Who is it? I demanded.
I would suggest you watching your tone.
I figured that it was Bernard.
Go away. I said.
Mark my words Mallory, you will regret the way that you are acting. The
voice said as it trailed off down the hall.
I decided to try and get some sleep. I climbed into bed and pulled the
covers over me. Ugh, this sucked, but somehow I managed to fall asleep.

77
 Still no dreams.
The next morning, I woke up and stretched. My arm ached. I groaned.
Well, I was still alive, unfortunately. I rubbed my eyes and sat up. I walked
around and heard the creaking of a door. I spun back around, but it was
Gretta. She offered to help me get ready. I shrugged.
After about an hour, I was in a new dress and she had pulled my hair into
a braid with ribbon. I thanked her and she brought up breakfast. It was hard
to think that it was only yesterday that I was eating with Noah and Sam. I
brushed off the feeling.
For basically the whole day, I read the books, talked to Gretta, yelled at
Bernard to leave me alone, and looked out the window. I was really getting
this feeling that this was my life from now on. I had to get out of here. I
missed Noah and Sam. I needed to see them.
That night, I stayed up for most of the night just looking out the window at
the stars.
The next day was the same as the last. I was getting antsy now.
The day after that, I had managed to finish every single book in my room.
Now, I was super bored. If I were at the other camp right now, I would
probably be hanging out with Noah and Sam. Eddie would come and see me.
I paused at the thought. No scratch that, he wouldnt. He didnt care about
me! He threw me to the wolves.
Literally!
I felt a tear fall down my cheek. I walked over to the window and sat
down. I picked up a piece of stone that had chipped off the wall. I carved my
initials into the stone under the window.
M.W.
I would decorate the entire room before I got out of here. Was this what
my life had come to? Carving things into stone?
I rested my head on my hand and stared out into the forest. This is crazy.
Im never going home. I cant believe this. How dare they! They treated me
like I didnt even matter. I could not believe that.
I was going back there. I was going to show them.
I was going to fight back.
I looked out the window. I looked down. I was maybe thirty or forty feet off
the ground. Too far to jump, but maybe there was another option.
I stood up and ran over to the bed. I threw the covers off and I pulled the
sheets off. I started to tie together the sheets into a rope and tied the
blankets on too. After a few minutes, I tied one end to the bedpost and
picked up the rest. I threw them out the window and watched as the blankets
fell, creating a rope. I exhaled deeply and hoisted myself up into the window.

78
I looked down and swallowed. It was so far down. The ice was so slick. But I
had to try.
Suddenly, someone grabbed me around the waist and pulled me back into
the room. My eyes widened.
Bernard!
No! I screamed.
I started to thrash around and try to kick him. He spun me around and
grabbed my arms. I looked at him and the color drained from my face.
I blinked a few times. Eddie? I whispered.
He shook his head. I, I, I oh my god. He stuttered letting go of me. He
backed away from me. I, I thought you were going to jump. Oh, oh my god, I
thought you were going to jump. He said dumbfounded as he began to pace
around the room. Holy crap, Mallory.
I swallowed. What are you doing here?
He put his hand on his head. Oh my god. I thought you were going to die.
I have never been that scared. He stopped himself. Oh my god, what is
wrong with me? He shook his head. He exhaled. Okay, its okay. Youre not,
you didnt.
Was he seriously freaking out right now? About what? Did he think I was
honestly going to die? Did he not see my blanket rope?
I swallowed again. What are you doing here?
He shook his head. I, I just
I stopped him. If you say that you thought I was going to jump one more
time, Im going to slap you because you obviously are blind and did not see
my well constructed blanket rope. I said annoyed, gesturing to the sheets
tied together.
He exhaled with relief. Yeah, I see it now. He smiled.
I raised my eyebrows.
What? He asked.
Eddie, what the hell are you doing here? I asked angrily.
I came for you. He said, taking a step forward.
Oh really? I asked skeptically, crossing my arms.
Yes, I came as soon as I heard. He said.
You heard?
Yes, as soon as I heard what they did to you.
Eddie it was your decision! I cried angrily.
What? He asked dumbfounded.
I nodded. Yeah, dont think that I dont know what you did. I heard that it
was your idea to let them take me! I heard everything! So dont come here
pretending like youre not the reason Im here! Just leave! I said backing

79
away from him.
His mouth dropped open. Mal, I, what are you talking about?
Just go! I will stay here just like you wanted. You know you were pretty
convincing with the getting even stuff and the compliments. You really had
me going there for a while.
You honestly think that I dont... He paused, exasperated. Mallory did
you not just see me have a freaking heart attack when I thought you were
going to die? He cried.
Why? I asked.
I, I dont know! He started to spew out. I dont know whats going on in
my head! I dont know why I care so much! I dont know! For some reason, I,
I just cant handle anything bad happening to you.
Then why did you do it?
His eyes widened and he held out his arms. Mallory, I didnt do it!
Bernard said that you were the one who agreed to the trade.
He nodded. Well, theres your problem! Youre listening to Bernard!
I paused. Crap, I was. That day was coming back to me now.
Eddie cut my train of thought. Mal, I wasnt even in the tent.
Orion, Chatura, and Cornelius were standing outside the commanders
tent. Eddie started to walk out too, but Zola ran from her tent and pulled him
away from the tent. She walked with him towards the woods. He seemed
confused, and kept looking back at the camp. The three commanders
watched as Bernard rode up on horseback with twenty soldier escorts
around him.
I scrunched my eyebrows and then looked at him. You, you were with
Zola.
He nodded.
What were you doing with her?
He exhaled. Well, turns out it was a distraction so the others could give
you to Bernard without me having a say in the decision.
That made so much more sense. I knew in the back of my mind that he
wouldnt let them take me.
I looked down. Oh.
He took a cautious step towards me. Because I would have said no.
I nodded.
I would have rather had him attack us right then and there.
I shook my head. I still dont understand why the others agreed. Do they
not care at all? I asked looking up.
He stopped in front of me. No, they do. They just know something that
you dont.

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 Oh, but you do?
He nodded. Zola told me.
And what did she say?
The prophecy. He said.
I nodded. About the three kings?
Yes.
My eyes widened. Theres more to it?
He nodded.
What? What does it say?
Well, there is a fourth human.
Realization crossed my face. Me.
He nodded. Yeah, and this fourth human will sacrifice themselves to save
the others.
I swallowed deeply, my face falling. Oh.
That was my reaction.
So, Zola thought that if I would be given to Bernard, that would count as
sacrificing and the others would be saved?
He nodded.
I blinked. But I didnt go willingly with Bernard. It doesnt count.
I know. They handled it poorly.
I had to sacrifice myself. I had to die. Oh my god.
I looked down. So, does this mean that I have to die?
He reached out and touched my cheek. God I hope not. He said quietly.
I looked up and our eyes met. I saw a small smile on his face. I smiled.
Me neither. I whispered, pulling him in to kiss me.
We kissed with relief. I put my arms around his neck. He pulled me closer
to him and we kept kissing. I felt so dumb for thinking that he would actually
agree to give me away.
I heard a loud banging on the door. My eyes widened and our heads
whipped to the door. Crap.
Mallory, open this door immediately.
Who is that? Eddie whispered, pulling me away from the door a little.
I swallowed deeply. Bernard.
The banging got louder. Bernard started to yell. Now!
Umm, I said quietly, my mind running a hundred and eighty miles and
hour. I looked around frantically. I nodded. Here! I said to Eddie, pointing to
the bed.
He nodded and rolled under the bed. I made sure that he was gone. I ran
to the door. I whirled around and ran back to the bed. I untied the blanket
ladder from the bedpost and threw it out of the window. I ran back to the

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door. I unlocked it and pulled it open.
What? I demanded.
Bernard strolled into the room. Watch your tone.
I rolled my eyes. What do you want Bernard? I asked annoyed.
I mean it. He said pointing at me. You better start to respect me. He
said hatefully.
My eyes narrowed and I smacked his hand away from me. He sighed
deeply and this time, he slapped me in the face. Ow. I fell down to the
ground. I could see Eddies eyes widen under the bed. I rubbed my face and
stood back up.
I, I am sorry Bernard. I said in a forced tone. I am just feeling a little bit
sick. I lied.
Sick?
Yes. Now can you please leave me be? I was hoping that I could try and
get better quickly, so that, so that I can spend the night in, in, your room
tonight. I forced a super fake smile.
Bernard bought it. He seemed really proud of himself. Well then. I knew
that you would warm up to me eventually. Now, clean up. You dine with me
tonight.
I would be honored.
He stopped in the doorframe and turned to me. Until tonight. He bowed.
Wouldnt miss it in a million years. I lied, smiling.
He grinned and shut the door behind him. I didnt move until the footsteps
trailed down the hall and were silent. I rubbed my cheek. Eddie scrambled up
from under the bed. He breathed deeply, storming for the door.
I swear Ill kill him.
I put my hand on his chest to hold him back. Save that for later. We have
to go, now.
I ran over to the desk and pulled out a piece of paper. I grabbed the quill
and scrawled a quick note to Bernard that said, Bernard, you lose. Enjoy your
dinner.
Eddie looked over my shoulder. Ready?
I turned to him and smiled. Lets go.
He grabbed my arm. We ran towards the servants door. So thats how he
got up here. We ran down the steps and burst into the kitchen. All the
dwarves jumped and studied us curiously. We ran past them and I looked for
Gretta but I couldnt see her. I didnt know where she was. I would come back
for her. I would free her from this place.
We ran outside and headed for the woods. Twigs crunched beneath our
feet as we tore through the bushes and then I saw his horse. He stopped and

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helped me up. Do you know how to ride a horse? He asked.
Well, I was in Girl Scouts in elementary school. I smiled. If that counts
for anything.
He laughed. Sure. He said as he got on behind me.
I leaned back against him. But Ill let you have the reins because I know
that you really want them. I laughed.
How thoughtful. He smiled.
Within a few seconds, we were speeding away from that horrible place.
After a few minutes, he looked down at me. So, one of these times, its
going to be your turn to save my life. He smiled.
I rolled my eyes. Okay, half of the times, I could have saved myself.
Oh really?
Yes, I was handling the wolves just fine. And I had a way out of the
Bruharas lair. But I will give you the waterfall. That counted.
Oh wow, thank you. He said sarcastically.
I laughed. Im not some damsel in distress like in the movies.
Im not saying you are.
But Ill let you be my knight in shining armor every once and a while just
to keep you happy. I smiled.
Deal. He smiled, but paused. Mal, you know I meant those things I said
to you at the feast.
I nodded. I know.
We were silent for a minute.
He swallowed. Hows your arm?
I shrugged. Ive gotten kind of used to it.
Has the pain gone down at all?
A little I guess.
I swear I do not understand medicine here. Its so strange.
I smiled. You mean you dont believe in magical herbs?
He shook his head. Not the slightest.
Do you believe in magic at all? I asked.
He shrugged. I dont know. Were here now, so I guess I have to.
True.
I want to see it when we get back.
I raised my eyebrow. And what exactly do you think youre going to do?
Im going to see if I can stitch up the cuts.
And since when do you know how to stitch up skin?
It cant be that hard.
My mouth dropped open. Well, what if you miss and stick the needle in
my vein and I die from blood loss?

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 He sighed. Mal, I think youre overreacting.
I shook my head. Fine, but when you get hurt I get to stitch you up.
I dont plan on getting hurt.
Shut up. I laughed.
On the rest of the way back to camp, Eddie told me all about the military
plans and what they had been teaching him to do. Time flew by and before I
knew it I could see the cherry blossoms. We rode into camp and everyone
started to cheer. They followed us as we rode up to the commanders tent.
Eddie stopped the horse. He jumped down and helped me off. The three
commanders emerged from the tent. I walked towards them slowly and
bowed. Orion stepped forward.
Lady Mallory, what a pleasant surprise. We beg you to forgive us for this
unfortunate misunderstanding.
I shrugged. I guess it was just all part of the prophecy right?
The three of them nodded solemnly. Yes, we are all very sorry that we
could not tell you all of the prophecy. We were just afraid that you would run
off.
I smirked. Me?
Orion bowed his head. He turned to Eddie. Edward, come, we have much
to discuss.
Eddie nodded and turned to me. Just dont go anywhere this time, okay?
I smiled. Im fine. Go. I said, pushing him towards the commanders
tent.
He turned and ran back to me. He gave me a quick kiss and ran back to
the commanders tent.
I blushed and looked around.
Someone screamed my name. I turned and was tackled by Noah. I
exhaled with relief and scooped him up. I hugged him tight and rubbed the
back of his head. I shut my eyes.
After a second, I heard Noah speak quietly. I cant believe that they took
you.
I swallowed. Im here now.
I missed you so much.
I missed you too, Noah. I smiled.
Did he lock you in the dungeon? Did you see Mr. Underwood?
No, he didnt lock me in the dungeon.
Oh, lucky.
I laughed. But he is still bad news.
I know! Thats why Im training. You should see how good Im getting at
fighting!

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 Really?
Yeah! Im good!
Someone else yelled my name. I whirled around and smiled. Sam. I said
relieved.
He ran towards me and threw his arms around me. Are you okay?
I nodded. Yeah, yeah Im okay.
Well, youre squishing me! Noah cried annoyed, pushing us apart.
Sam smirked and looked at me. So, how romantic was it when Eddie
showed up to save you?
I pointed at him. I will have you know that I was on my way to escape
when he showed up.
Sam held his hands up in surrender.
I looked away from him. But yes, it was romantic.
He started to laugh.
I saw Zola walking towards me. I swallowed deeply and set Noah down. I
had a bone to pick with her. I exhaled and turned to her. She stopped in front
of me. I raised my eyebrows. She nodded.
Umm, I...
I cut her off. The sacrifice has to be a willing sacrifice.
She looked down. I know.
So, it didnt work.
I, Im sorry.
I nodded.
She looked back up at me. I had to try something. I cannot let the evil
witch triumph. I was desperate.
I know.
I did it for Celestia.
Zola, its fine, I get it.
She nodded. Okay. She smiled.
Sam walked forward and put his arm around her. Well, want to go
practice?
She rolled her eyes. Yeah, you need it.
He turned and walked with her towards the field. He turned towards me
quickly and gave me a thumbs up. I smiled. Noah tugged on my dress. I
looked down to him.
He smiled. Can we go practice now? I want to show you my cool moves.
I forced a smile. Sure, lets go.
We walked together to the field. He pulled out his sword. I will admit that
I was a bit concerned that they gave an eight-year-old a sword but I guess it
wasnt really my decision. We began to fight slowly, but soon picked up

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speed. Wow, he was good! I think that I even learned some stuff.
We did this for a few hours, until it got dark. I figured that it was pretty
late and Noah looked tired. We headed back to the tent. When we got there,
the camp was quiet. We walked into the tent. Eddie was sitting on a couch
and Sam was lying on the other. Once again, they stopped talking when we
walked in. It was annoying.
I raised an eyebrow. What were you guys talking about?
They both looked at each other and then back at me. Nothing. They said
at the same time.
No, of course not.
I nodded. Right. I said skeptically.
Sam nodded. Well, Im going to bed.
He turned over on the couch. A few minutes later, we could hear him
snoring quietly. I turned to Noah, who yawned very loudly. Noah, are you
ready for bed?
He nodded aimlessly and crawled into the big chair. He curled up and
turned to face us. Good night Eddie.
Eddie stood up and walked over. He kissed him on the forehead. Night
big guy. He smiled.
Then, Noah turned to me. Will you still be here in the morning?
I smiled. Yes, hopefully. I said, looking up at Eddie.
He rolled his eyes.
Noah smiled and closed his eyes. I sat with him and rubbed his back for a
few minutes, until I was sure that he was asleep. Then, I stood up. I turned
and saw Eddie sitting on the other couch, staring at me. I raised my
eyebrows.
What?
He held up a needle and thread.
I groaned.
He smiled. Come on Mal.
I sat down next to him and held my arm out. I think I should warn you.
Warn me about what? He asked, unwrapping the cloth.
Im a screamer.
No you arent.
I sighed. I can be. I shot back.
He laughed. Okay, sure. He said, touching my arm gently.
I looked down and saw all the puncture wounds. None of them had healed
at all. I nodded. Glad to know that medicine here doesnt help us.
He forced a smile. Our bodies must be immune.
Lucky us.

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 I know.
I swallowed. So I guess that means no anesthesia.
He looked up at me. Sorry.
And its going to hurt.
Yes.
I exhaled. Great.
He was silent for a second. Then he nodded. Okay, heres some
anesthesia. If you scream, youll wake up Noah.
Oh god. I laughed.
And you and I both know that its a bitch to get him back asleep.
I shook my head. Okay, I wont scream.
Good. He said, threading the needle.
I shut my eyes and bit my lip, waiting for the pain. I waited for a few
seconds, but when nothing happened, I opened up one of my eyes. Eddie
was staring at me with his eyebrows raised.
What! I laughed.
He shook his head and grabbed my arm. Stop making that face.
Oh you mean my Im in pain face? Im just preparing myself.
Well, its freaking me out.
Because you know youre going to cause me pain.
Yeah! He said, like it was obvious.
And Im going to get angry at you.
I know you are.
Well, I wont.
Promise? He asked.
I nodded.
You sure?
I nodded.
He looked at me suspiciously and leaned forward close to me.
I rolled my eyes and kissed him.
He laughed. Fine, I believe you.
Good.
If you dont scream or cry, Ill give you a present.
What kind of present? I asked, suddenly interested.
A good one.
Wow, thats descriptive.
Youll just have to wait to find out.
Fine. I said. Go. I said shutting my eyes.
I heard him exhale. Then I felt a pinch in my arm. I bit my lip harder as my
arm started to burn. Another pinch. I winced. I think they were getting worse.

87
My arm had started throbbing again. I let out a little cry, but quickly covered
my mouth and opened my eyes. Eddie stopped and pointed at me. I shook
my head. He laughed and kept working.
Okay, time for the truth. It hurt like hell and honestly, I didnt need the
stitches. I hope Eddie doesnt plan on becoming a doctor. But there was no
way I was telling him to stop.
We were silent for a while as he worked. I could tell that he was
concentrating really hard. I winced a bit every time I felt a pinch, but I got
used to it after about thirty pokes. My eyes fell on Eddie and I saw the look of
intent focus on his face. He had his eyebrows scrunched and the tip of his
tongue was sticking out of the corner of his mouth.
Eddie. I finally said quietly.
Hmm? He breathed.
Im bored.
He forced a smile. Im a little busy right now.
Talk to me.
He sighed. Mal, I have to focus.
Come on. I whined.
He exhaled and looked up at me. Do you want me to mess up?
No. I said sheepishly.
Then I cant talk.
Youre talking now.
He looked back down. Shut up.
I laughed.
We were silent again for a bit.
I looked at him. What are you thinking about?
Nothing.
Well you have to be thinking about something.
Im thinking about how I need to focus on not stabbing you with the
needle for making me talk.
Come on Eddie.
He sighed. Fine. He nodded. Im thinking that this has, by far, been the
strangest spring break I have ever had.
I started to laugh. You mean you havent ever traveled to mythical lands
on spring break before?
No, I cant say I have.
Well theres a first time for everything, I guess.
Yeah. He said, making another stitch.
Have you ever fought a war or ruled a country on spring break?
He smiled. Havent done that either.

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 Wow, youre boring.
He laughed. Shut up.
We were silent for a minute as he worked.
He finally sighed. Mal, I really screwed us over by taking you from
Bernard and bringing you back here.
I nodded. Bernard was going to attack you anyway.
I know that, but now hes angry.
When is he not angry?
Hes going to want to take you back. Eddie said slowly, making another
stitch.
I swallowed. Well, if it will stop the war, then Ill let him.
I wont let him take you.
Eddie, you cant just
He cut me off and set down the needle. Mallory, I dont think you
understand that
I stopped him. Eddie, peoples lives are at stake.
He sighed. I, I know that, I just cant, He rubbed his face with his hand
and exhaled deeply. Mal, I dont know.
Whats wrong Eddie?
He shook his head. I dont know whats going on. Something in my brain
freaks out any time anything bad happens to you and I feel like Im going to
die inside. I dont know what it is. I dont know why, but its killing me.
I swallowed. Oh.
I mean, you saw how I freaked when I thought you were going to jump
out of that window. I cant control myself. I go crazy and I dont know why.
I bit my lip to stop myself from smiling. I dont know either.
It just, it just freaks me out.
I looked at him. Im sorry I freak you out.
He smiled. No, no its not you. He said, making one final stitch.
Good.
He let go of my arm. There.
I nodded impressed. Wow, youre practically a doctor.
A doctor and a king, can I handle that?
I laughed. Im sure youll be fine.
We were silent as he put down the needle and rolled up the thread. I
looked at him expectantly.
What? He asked.
Wheres my present?
He laughed. If I recall
I cut him off. Eddie.

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 Okay, okay, close your eyes.
I closed my eyes and waited. I felt him reach around my neck and then
something metal fall against my chest.
For my beautiful, adorable, smart, caring Mallory.
I reached up to touch it and opened my eyes. I looked down and saw a
tiny gold necklace with a crest charm on it hanging from my neck.
I smiled. Its beautiful.
Im glad that you like it.
Was this seriously happening? I started to laugh.
He scrunched his eyebrows. What? He asked.
Nothing, its just that I wouldnt peg you as the romantic-get-a-girl-a-
necklace type.
His mouth dropped open and he looked appalled.
All of a sudden, Sam rolled over. Hes not! The necklace was my idea!
Now shut up and go to sleep! He moaned as he threw a pillow at us.
We started to laugh quieter and apologized. We were silent for a second. I
looked at him. His eyes met mine.
What? He whispered.
I smiled. Thank you. I said, pulling him into kiss me.
Youre welcome. He breathed as he kept kissing me. I lied back on the
couch and pulled him on top of me. We kept kissing.

The next morning, I woke up to trumpets blaring. I rubbed my eyes and I

looked around. Sam and Noah were eating on the ground, but Eddie was
nowhere to be found. I sat up and touched my face. I remembered what
happened last night and I couldnt help but smile.
Sam gave me the sup nod and Noah waved. Sam cleared his throat.
Do you guys always have to be so loud?
I rolled my eyes. Oh my god, Sam. We were just talking.
Thats not what my ears heard.
I felt myself start to get red. I brushed my lips. I dont get to see him at
all during the day.
Poor you. Nice necklace by the way.
I grabbed the necklace on my neck. I still cant believe that he gave it to
me. It was so unexpected. I turned back to Sam. Thanks.
He nodded. So did Doctor Eddie fix you up good?
I rolled my eyes. Shut up. I said looking down at my arm.
I inspected the stitches for a minute. They could be worse, I guess.
The trumpets sounded again. I turned towards them. Who is that?
They both shrugged and got up to go see. I walked out with them. Other

90
soldiers were beginning to gather around as a small messenger ran past
them to the command tent. The three emerged from the tent along with
Eddie. When he saw me, he smiled. I smiled back. The messenger stopped in
front of the men and breathed deeply.
Sir, this just arrived. He said holding up a scroll.
Orion nodded. Read it aloud.
The messenger nodded and unrolled the scroll. He cleared his throat.
From the Lord Bernard. You pathetic resistors have made your final mistake.
The girl was mine. There is no other option. Prepare yourselves, for tomorrow
at dawn, my army attacks.
He stopped, rolled up the scroll, and bowed. Oh god. Everyone at the
camp was silent. Finally, Orion spoke. Soldiers. We knew that it was only a
matter of time before this day would come. Weve been preparing for
months. Now, we must make last minute adjustments, and begin last minute
training. Tonight, we will brief you of the plan.
Everyone nodded and went back to their duties. Was this seriously
happening? I never thought that we would actually be involved! This is crazy!
The commanders all slipped back inside the tent. Zola walked over
towards us. Sams expression lightened when we saw her. She seemed very
tense, like she had been waiting for this day to come for a long time. Sam
walked forward with his arms out.
Hey, you look like you could use a hug. He said.
She pushed past him. No, were going to practice, now.
He pretended like he was only putting his hands in his pockets. Okay,
maybe later then. He called after her.
Noah and I both started to laugh. Sam turned to us. Not funny. He said.
I managed to stop laughing. Yeah, its funny.
He rolled his eyes and ran off towards Zola. Noah started to follow him
and then turned to me. Arent you coming?
We walked to the field and Noah started to practice with me again. Thank
god I wasnt left handed, otherwise I wouldnt have been able to hold a sword
at all. My arm still hurt. I think it was infected. Then again, I have no idea. It
just hurts. Bad.
We practiced for a few hours, until he got really bored. Then, I practiced
with Zola for a little while. I was actually getting good at this. After lunch, we
practiced some more, until all of us were really sore. I really just wanted for
this battle to be over already. My fingers tingled with anticipation.
Thankfully, the trumpets sounded. We took that as our cue to head back
to camp. We arrived back just as the other soldiers were beginning to gather
around the tent. The three commanders and Eddie emerged from the tent.

91
Orion cleared his throat.
Celestians! Now is the time to fight for our freedom!
The crowd of soldiers erupted into cheer.
It is time to take back what was rightfully ours!
More cheering.
I know that Deonesus would be proud of such brave soldiers!
Orion calmed the crowd down and turned to Cornelius. Cornelius nodded
and cleared his throat. Now we know that this is not going to be easy. Our
spies have reported that Bernards army has nearly doubled in size.
Murmurs and whispers could be heard in the crowd. I could tell that all of
the soldiers were freaking out now. Cornelius raised his hand. Everyone was
silent.
But that does not matter! He yelled. Because we have something to
fight for! Our independence!
Once again the crowd erupted into cheer. Chatura banged his hoof on the
platform. Everyone was silent. Chatura walked forward.
Soldiers, we have gone over the strategy many times. This changes
nothing. We must out wit and out fight the horrible witch if we wish to claim
back our land. Down with winter! His voice boomed.
For like the tenth time, the crowd interrupted in cheer. These soldiers
were easily persuaded to fight to their death. Chatura bowed his head and
stepped backwards. All of the soldiers were dead silent and looked up at
Eddie. He was just looking around. Eddie looked down at them and then at
the commanders.
Me? He said, pointing at himself.
Oh god.
The three commanders motioned towards the crowd and nodded. Eddies
eyes darted around and he started to shift uncomfortably. Oh, I dont have
anything to He paused. His eyes fell on us. We all gave him thumbs up. He
took a deep breath. I really had no idea why this was so difficult for him. He
was like the class president and everything. He turned back to the soldiers.
He stepped forward.
Umm, hi. He started. Im Eddie and I am proud to be one of your
military commanders. As a military commander, I have much responsibility
when it comes to running this army... He stopped suddenly as he looked
over at us.
Noah shook his head, Sam shook his hand and gave him a gesture to cut
it out, and I raised my eyebrows and mouthed for him to stop. He studied us
carefully and then turned back to the soldiers. They were all staring at him
like he was crazy. For some reason, he seemed much more nervous in front

92
of these people than the school people.
Eddie gulped. Umm, what I meant to say was that my brothers and I
would be honored to be your kings. We appreciate you welcoming us to your
land
The soldiers were still looking at him confused. He looked back to me. I
waved my hand and told him to wrap it up. He looked back at them.
Umm, He stuttered as he raised his arm and put his hand in a fist. Long
live Celestia and long live Deonesus!
The crowd erupted into cheer. We all started to laugh. Orion went over
some last minute details and the troops disbanded. The three of us went
back to our tent. I sat down on the couch and Noah sat down on the ground
underneath me. Sam lied down on the other couch. Eddie came in half and
hour later. Sam stood up.
Ladies and Gentlemen, the President of Celestia. He said motioning to
Eddie and clapping.
Ha!
Noah and I started to clap along. Eddie rolled his eyes and pushed Sam
down on the couch. Eddie walked over and sat down on the couch next to
me. Noah yawned. He turned around and looked up at us confused.
What time is dawn?
Eddie nodded. Really early, so its time for bed.
Noah nodded aimlessly and walked over to the big chair. He curled up in
it. We said good night to him and within a few minutes, he was asleep.
When I looked over to Sam, he appeared to be asleep so I walked over
and sat down next to Eddie. He slipped his hand into mine and rubbed it
gently with his thumb. We looked at Noah for a few minutes.
I swallowed. You really need to work on your public speaking skills.
He laughed. That was bad.
Why were you so nervous?
He shrugged. I didnt know what to say. I felt like they wouldnt take me
seriously. I feel so young compared to all of them.
Yeah, no one wants to listen to young punks like us.
Exactly. He smiled.
Especially not Sam.
He laughed again. Especially not.
Have you seen him practice archery?
He shook his head. No, why? Is he good?
I nodded. Yeah, hes not bad.
Well, I hope he can handle himself tomorrow.
Ugh, tomorrow. I groaned.

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 Were about to fight in this battle. Eddie said dumbfounded like it just
hit him that it was actually happening.
I forced a small smile. Yeah. Its crazy. I never thought that I would
actually fight in a war.
Eddie sighed deeply. Yeah, see, thats kind of the thing that I wanted to
talk to you about.
What?
He opened up his mouth, but no words came out. He looked back to
Noah. I, I, need you to stay here with him tomorrow. He said, staring me
straight in the face.
What? Eddie. I protested.
He cut me off. No.
Eddie, I can help.
No, you have to stay here, where its safe.
Eddie, Im not going to just let you go off like that. You cant just leave
me behind. I argued.
He stood up and turned to face me. Mallory, cant you see that Im trying
to protect you?
Just then, Sam groaned deeply. He got up, grabbed a pillow, and started
to walk for the flap. Oh my god. Thats it. If you need me, Ill be in Zolas
tent. He said as he stormed out.
I stood up. Eddie, I can make my own decisions. Im not some helpless
little damsel in distress. You know that.
Mallory, stop.
You are being way too overprotective! Why do you care so much? I
yelled.
He started to breathe deeply. Dont you get it? I cant lose you again! I
cant handle it! He yelled. He started to shake his head. He turned and he
stormed out of the tent.
Eddie! Oh, Eddie! Wait! I yelled after him, realizing my mistake.
Crap! Oh my god, what have I done? I knew what he was trying to do! He
was just trying to protect me. What is wrong with you Mal? I felt awful.
I sighed deeply and turned back into the tent. I jumped four feet in the air
when I saw that Noah was standing in front of me. He was looking at me with
his big eyes.
Why were you fighting Mal? He whimpered.
I walked towards him and picked him up. Oh Noah, we werent fighting.
I sat down with him on the couch. He looked up at me. Well, you guys
were yelling and stuff.
Did we wake you up? Im sorry.

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 Mal? Whats wrong?
Im just a little nervous for the war tomorrow. I lied.
He raised an eyebrow. Really, Mal?
I, umm, yeah. I stuttered.
Well, if Mr. Underwood was here, Im sure that he would know what to
do.
I forced a smile. I cant wait to meet him.
Noah started to yawn and I could hear his voice start to fade. Yeah, did I
mention that he makes good cookies He said quietly.
I looked down, and he was snoring quietly on top of me. I put my head
back against the couch. The more I thought about it, the more I did not want
to fight. I wasnt that good. Noah needed me because there was no way in
hell that he was fighting. I didnt feel right killing people. So why did I freak
out at Eddie? Ugh, okay, first thing in the morning, I am going to fix this.
I couldnt sleep.
Which was unsurprising.
I stay up all night staring off into the distance, replaying the conversation
between Eddie and I in my head. I hated myself.

The next morning I heard trumpets blaring again. I missed my alarm clock.
My eyes were bloodshot and I was exhausted. I rubbed my eyes and looked
around. Noah was sitting on top of me and he was still asleep. I sighed
deeply and moved him off of me slowly. I got up and got changed.
I walked back over and woke up Noah. He yawned but perked up
immediately. He still thought that we were fighting. I didnt have the heart to
tell him that we were staying behind. I dont know. Ill make up something
later. I got him ready and we walked out of the tent. Soldiers everywhere
were getting their weapons ready. I saw Sam talking with Zola outside her
tent. I turned towards the command tent. Eddie was in full armor and talking
with Cornelius outside. I took a deep breath and walked towards him. I looked
down at Noah, but he was already running off towards Eddie. I swallowed
deeply.
Eddie scooped him up and hugged him. They talked for a moment, until
Eddies eyes fell on me. He exhaled and set Noah down. He said something
to him and Noah ran off to Sam. Eddie looked back to Cornelius.
Will you excuse me for a second? I heard him ask.
Cornelius turned around. When he saw me, he nodded slowly. He walked
back into the tent, leaving Eddie and I alone. Eddie walked towards me
slowly. From what I could tell, he didnt look happy. Crap.
I opened my mouth to speak, but Eddie cut me off. Mallory

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 I stopped him. Eddie look, about last night
He cut me off. Mallory please listen to me
I cut him off again. I just wanted to apologize
Will you shut up and let me speak? He asked annoyed.
I was slightly taken aback by his annoyed tone. I recoiled a bit. He sighed.
Sorry. Now look Mal, I am the one that needs to apologize for being
overprotective. Its not my decision whether you fight or not. He paused.
But, I would really, honestly, prefer you not to. He pleaded.
I swallowed deeply. Im not going to.
You arent?
I shook my head. Ill watch Noah.
Even though...
I stopped him. Eddie, Im not ready to fight.
But weve been training...
I cut him off. Mentally.
He swallowed. Oh.
I nodded. Its too dangerous. I said looking down.
Im starting to realize that.
I couldnt sleep last night.
He swallowed. Me neither.
I feel horrible.
You feel horrible? He asked. I ruined what might have been our last
night together. He said annoyed.
The color drained from my face. I didnt think of that.
He nodded.
I felt my eyes start to well up. I sniffed in and wiped away some tears
quickly. Eddie, dont talk like that!
Mal, Im sorry, but...
You are not dying. You are not doing that to me, to us!
I, Im just trying to keep it realistic. No one knows whats going to happen
today. I could...
I sighed deeply. But what am I supposed to do then?
I, I dont know. He started to stutter.
I sniffed in and put my hand over my eyes. I tried to force a laugh. Now I
know how you feel. For some reason, Im dying inside and I dont know why,
even though you arent even dead yet.
He pulled me into a hug. Oh Mal, its okay.
I shook my head. No its not.
He rubbed my back. It will be.
Just then, the horn sounded. All of the soldiers started to march towards

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the battlefield. Eddie looked back at me. Well, I guess thats my cue.
I forced a smile. He kissed me. I closed my eyes and touched his face. I
didnt want to let go. Finally, he pulled back.
Please come back alive. I begged.
I will. He said as he started to back away towards the other
commanders.
Promise me?
He smiled. Yes.
I opened my mouth to say something, but I stopped. I didnt know what to
say. I had a hundred things I wanted to say, but I couldnt say them. I
swallowed. You better not break your promise.
I wont. He said as he turned and ran off to the other commanders.
I sighed. I sure hope not. I said under my breath.
I looked up to the sky. Please, let him come back alive. I looked back
down. Sam and Zola walked passed me holding hands. Well then, I take it
last night went well. I ran over to them.
Sam! I yelled.
He turned around. When he saw me, he smiled. I held my arms out. He
walked towards me and hugged me.
Be careful, okay? I said.
Thats the plan. He said back.
Dont die on me.
I wont. Us young punks gotta stay together.
My mouth dropped open. You never sleep, do you?
Well, I dont know about Zola, but I slept wonderfully last night. He
smirked, letting go of me and looking at her.
She rolled her eyes.
I turned to Zola. Take care of him for me, or else his mom will freak.
Zola smiled. You mean, make sure he doesnt shoot himself in the foot or
anything? Yeah, I got that covered.
I laughed. Sam shrugged and ran off with Zola.
Noah came up behind me. Come on Mal, lets go. He said pulling me
along behind them. He had on his armor. I dont know who put it on him, but
no one can tell him no ever, so I guess he thought we were still fighting.
I grabbed his arm. Umm actually Noah, we arent going with them.
His face saddened. What?
Because, because we have, we have been given another top secret
mission.
He leaned in close to me. What? Did you say top secret? He asked
interested.

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 Yeah, super secret.
Like, like, spies?
Yeahspies exactly! I nodded.
Well, he just saved my butt, because I had no idea what to say.
What is our mission? He stared at me intently.
Umm, well we have to, umm, stay up high and observe the battle, to, to,
to make sure that the enemy doesnt sneak around our army.
His eyes widened. I accept the mission.
I nodded. Good, now lets go.
Where should we hide? He asked quietly, looking around discretely.
Lets go this way. I said, pointing towards the field.
We started to follow the soldiers who were marching down to the
battlefield. Noah was looking down. Suddenly, he looked up at me.
Did Eddie give us this mission?
I nodded. Yep.
Am I making him proud?
I swallowed deeply. Very proud.
The soldiers started to line up and take their positions. The battle was to
take place in this meadow littered with rocks and boulders. Our army was set
up in a patch of rocks. They were huddled very close together. I looked
around for Sam but I didnt see him anywhere. I grabbed Noah by the arm
and pulled him aside. We climbed up some rocks and finally I stopped.
We were perched high above the battlefield. We could see everything. My
eye caught movement across from us on the cliffs. I scrunched my eyebrows
but then smiled when I saw all of our archers hidden behind the rocks,
waiting to ambush Bernards army. It was brilliant.
The best part was that the whole time Noah actually thought that we were
on a secret mission. This might actually work. Noah kept looking around and
pretending to be stealthy. It was kind of cute and I might have played along,
except for the fact that I was freaked out. I didnt take my eyes off of Eddie.
Him and the three other commanders were in the front, like ahead of
everyone else, like Hey! Im going to lead you into battle! From what I have
read in all of the books about war is that the guys in front usually die first.
This is horrible. My gaze shifted to the other side of the meadow when I
heard trumpets sounding and evil jeering. Well, theyre here! Let the worst
day of my life begin! I could see Bernard riding in the back of a chariot. He
led his army towards ours. I looked around, but I couldnt see the Bruhara
anywhere. I was seriously starting to freak out. My heart beat fast.
Finally, I heard trumpets sound and cheers erupt from both sides. I
couldnt take my eyes off of the place. Eddie raised his sword. He pointed it

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towards the enemy, and before I knew it they were racing towards Bernard.
Bernard did the same, but instead of leading his army out, he let them just
race past him. I waited in agony as the armies got closer and closer, until I
heard another horn at the last minute. I looked up confused as our archers
revealed themselves and targeted Bernards soldiers with their arrows. I
smiled as Bernards soldiers fell. They werent expecting it at all! It was
genius!
Finally the armies clashed.
Ugh, it was horrible. I sat on the rock with my head in my hands, peeking
through my fingers. I kept my eyes on Eddie the whole time. He somehow
managed to stay alive. Noah kept darting around the rock like a spy. He
didnt seem to get the fact that we were all in extreme danger. Every now
and then, I would squeal a little when Eddie got close to dying. When I did,
Noah would run up next to me.
What? Is there a spy?
Seriously, I must have done that like ten times. Every time, Noah would
run up to me like that. I grabbed my necklace. Oh my god. This battle
dragged on forever. Soldiers were dying left and right. It was horrible to
watch. Im not really sure how one side would win. I guess if you kill the
other leaders, then you win. I really tried not to think of it like that,
considering Eddie was one of the leaders. Or I guess you could win by killing
all of the enemy soldiers. Well, Eddie was one of those too. Either way he
would die. I shook the thought from my mind. I hated this. My mind was
freaking out.
Finally, I heard a trumpet being blown. I looked over and my expression
hardened when I saw that Bernard was finally riding into battle. I really did
hate him. I squinted and looked close at him. He had hatred in his eyes and
he seemed to be locked onto something. I tried to see what he was looking
at. My heart sank when I saw Eddie battling through creature after creature,
straight towards Bernard. Oh god. This cant be happening. Eddie was
holding his ground okay, but I could tell that he was slowly tiring.
He had no idea that Bernard was racing towards him. Lets face it,
Bernard has pretty much been fighting his whole life and Eddie had maybe
been fighting for a week. This was not fair. There was nothing I could do. I
just stared in disbelief, waiting for the end. Bernard smirked as he jumped off
of his chariot and started to slash through our soldiers easily. I watched as he
got closer to Eddie. This was a nightmare. He didnt even know what was
coming.
Someone had to save him.
I stood up suddenly. I was going to save him. I was not going to watch him

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die. He promised that he wouldnt. I was starting to understand how he was
feeling. I dont know why I cared so much. I mean sure, Ive been in love with
him for like 10 years, but only recent developments have given me a reason
to actually be justifiably worried and need to save him.
I had to do it.
I had to stop thinking and just do it.
I turned to Noah. Noah?
He ran over to me. A spy! I knew it.
No, listen to me. I have to go help.
What? He said looking up at me with his big eyes.
I, I have to go fight. They need me.
Okay, Ill come with you. He said, reaching for his sword.
No, I insisted. You are staying up here.
But, but, but... He whined.
No, please Noah. Stay up here and out of harms way.
But, I need to help!
You are helping. Watch for the spies.
I will. He said.
Good.
His expression saddened. Dont die please.
I hugged him. I wont.
He nodded and went back to scouting out for spies. I smiled and started
to sneak down to the battle scene. I kept my eyes locked on Bernard the
whole time. He made his way towards Eddie until there were only a few
soldiers in between them. Oh my god. I started to sprint towards him. I
wasnt going to make it! There were like a bunch of enemy soldiers in
between us. I drew my sword and somehow managed to fight my way
through them. They were probably surprised to see a girl fighting among
themI knew I was. I tried to track Bernard, but I had no idea what I was
going to do.
Pretty soon I could see Eddie. Oh thank god he was alive. He stared at
someone in the distance. I whirled around and saw Bernard walking towards
him gallantly. They faced each other. Eddie swung first. Bernard dodged
easily. Eddie swung again. Bernard deflected the attack. Eddie kept swinging.
Bernard out maneuvered him easily. Eddie was tiring quickly. Bernard began
his attack. He swung at Eddie relentlessly until Eddie fell to the ground. I
gasped. I needed a plan, now. My mind raced as Bernard raised his sword.
A willing sacrifice.
I took a deep breath and ran to them. I dropped my sword. My ears were
ringing. I jumped in front of Bernard and grabbed his arms. He looked at me

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confused.
I heard Eddie behind me. No Mal. He moaned.
I looked into Bernards eyes as he lowered the sword. Bernard. I
pleaded.
Well Mallory! He said surprised.
Please take me instead. I said, reaching up to rub his cheeks with my
thumbs. We can go back to your castle. Ill do whatever you want.
He smirked. Hmm, tempting.
Mal, stop! Eddie cried from behind me, breathing deeply.
My eyes didnt leave Bernards. Im not going anywhere.
Bernard looked down at me. Thats what I like to hear. I knew youd come
around. He paused. Now, will you please move out of the way so I can
pleasantly run your beloved Eddie through with my sword? Then we can get
going. He said, advancing forward.
I moved with him. No, I want to go now.
Mallory. Eddie warned, still gasping for breath.
Bernard leaned closer to me. Feisty. He growled, dropping his sword and
pulling me in for a sloppy kiss.
I was really starting to regret my plan.
I tried to make it believable.
Bernard let go of me after a moment and smiled. I smiled back. He leaned
his forehead against mine. Mal I would love to take you back with me, he
paused.
I gasped as I felt a searing pain in my abdomen. I looked down and cried
out in pain when I saw that he had thrust my dagger into my stomach. I
looked back at up at him.
But see, you missed dinner. He said innocently. And I cant have that.
So I guess, youre the one who loses. He sneered, pulling the dagger out
and throwing it to the ground.
I kept gasping as I turned to face Eddie, who was now standing. I covered
my stomach and blood stained my hands. My eyes widened.
The color drained from his face. No! He yelled.
Tears fell down my cheeks as I cried out in pain and started to shake. My
body was burning. Bernard shoved me forward and I fell into Eddies arms.
My knees buckled.
No, no. He moaned. No, Mal.
I shook my head. Eddie. I managed, falling sideways.
My head was spinning. I couldnt see straight.
I fell from his arms to the ground.
I put my hands on my stomach. Blood covered them. Oh my god. Oh my

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god. I was going to die. Oh my god! Oh, oh. What have I done? Ow, ow, ow.
Oh god.
Bernard smirked and picked up his sword. I looked around slowly. Time
seemed to slow down. This, this cant be happening. I wasnt supposed to
die. I paused.
A willing sacrifice.
Oh god. I was supposed to die.
All of a sudden, Eddie was there. He tackled Bernard to the ground. I had
never seen Eddie so mad, ever. Anger seethed from his veins. I could feel
myself fading. I winced.
I needed to talk to Eddie. I needed to talk to him. I tried to reach out
towards Eddie and call his name, but I dont think that he heard me. I kept
gasping. I shut my eyes.
Just then, I heard this horrible screech. I looked around to see where it
was coming from. I could see a blurry black flowing form rising in the air. At
first, I thought that it was a bird, but then I realized that it was human. Oh
my god, it was Bruhara. When she shrieked, all of her soldiers started to gain
strength. Oh god. The enemy soldiers started to plow through our men like it
was nothing. The screeching continued until it was replaced by another
sound.
A growl.
It was the loudest thing that I had ever heard in my life. Thankfully, I
wasnt the only one who heard it.
All of the other soldiers whipped their heads around. I looked to where
they looked. I squinted and in the distance, right where Noah and I had been
hiding, there was a large animal.
A leopard.
Wait, could it be? I squinted more and saw that there was a small boy
riding on its back. Oh my god. Was that Noah? The child raised his arms.
Deonesus returns! He yelled at the top of his lungs.
Oh my god. No way. I watched as the leopard started to race down to the
battlefield with Noah on his back. He stopped and let Noah jump off.
Everyone was still watching in awe. Deonesus growled deeply and pounced
towards the Bruhara. In one lunge, he tackled her to the ground. Okay, for
sure, time slowed down. I was positive.
All of the enemy soldiers dropped to the ground. All of our soldiers started
to cheer. I tried to sit up and see what was going on, but I collapsed. Ugh,
the pain in my stomach was unbearable. Ow, ow, ow. There was no way that
I was going to last much longer. Oh god. I continued to gasp for air. I closed
my eyes for a few seconds.

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 Okay, Mal you could do this. There was a rock a few over a few feet from
me. If I could crawl over there, I could prop myself up. I managed to roll
over on my stomach and pull myself along slowly, with one hand still
covering my stomach. It took me a minute, but I finally made it. I turned
back over, and put my back against the rock. I pulled my legs closed to my
body in the fetal position. I breathed deeply and squeezed my eyes shut.
I couldnt open them. Oh my god, I was fading fast. I had to find someone,
anyone. Someone slid down next to me a moment later and I forced my eyes
open. Eddie was alive. I gasped with relief. He knelt down next to me, and he
pulled me towards him.
No, no, no. He managed.
I swallowed deeply. Eddie. I said with relief, reaching up to touch his
face.
He shook his head and moved my hand from my stomach. His expression
saddened. No, no why didnt you stay up there like I told you?
I could feel my face get cold. I tried to keep my eyes focused on him. It
was my turn to save your life. I said, forcing a smile.
I could see his eyes well up. No Mal, that was crazy.
I swallowed deeply. The sacrifice.
The prophecy? He asked.
I nodded. I, I, I had to. Its, its my destiny.
He shook his head. No, no youre going to be okay. Ill get someone to
help you. He said urgently, looking around. His face was stained with my
blood.
This time, I shook my head. No Eddie, its too late.
No, no it cant be.
I nodded slowly. I started to see black spots. I tried to focus on him.
Eddie?
He leaned in close to me.
I dont want kissing Bernard to be the last thing I remember. I said, as
my lip quivered and I pulled him in for a kiss.
He let go of me and rested his forehead against mine. I could see a tear
trickle down his cheek.
I forced a smile. Its okay, Eddie. I said wiping the tear away from his
cheek.
Mal, you know I cant do this.
Yes you can.
No, no, I need you
I love you. I croaked quietly.
But I, He started, but then looked at me confused. Wait, you what?

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 I opened my mouth but no words came out. I forced a small smile. I
started to black out. I couldnt hear anything anymore. I tried to focus. He
didnt say anything. He didnt say anything at all.
I could see Noah, Sam, and Zola running towards me. Another figure
appeared in front of me, a leopard. Deonesus said something to Eddie, and
then he blew on my stomach. I didnt feel any different. I looked up at Eddie.
He looked down at me urgently, with fear in his eyes.
Then, I blacked.

When I opened my eyes, I gasped for air. I was alive? What is going on? I
reached down and touched my stomach. I wasnt bleeding. What is going
on? Why arent I dead? Was it all just a dream? This is crazy! The bite on my
arm was gone. What had happened? I sat up.
Boy, was I lightheaded. I lied back down and put my hands on my face.
Oh my god. What have I done? I started to have flashbacks to the battle. If it
was real, I think that we won. Deonesus showed up and saved us. Did he
heal me? He must have.
Oh Eddie.
Crap, I did it again. I made this huge dramatic speech and embarrassed
myself because I thought that I was going to die. Well, Im not dead again
and this is awkward. Ugh, I am so stupid. We had only been here like a week
and a half, and I said that I freaking loved him. Fantastic. Good work, Mal.
How was I getting myself out of this one? I had to find them. Tell Eddie that it
was just a big misunderstanding.
Maybe, hell understand.
I managed to sit up. My head was throbbing. I looked around. Eddies
sword and shield were thrown on the ground. Sams bows and arrows were
tossed on the couch. Well, the battle definitely happened.
I stood up. I walked slowly towards the flap. I peeked out of the tent.
Soldiers were in their tents. Some were cleaning up, some were injured, and
some were celebrating the fact that we won. I snuck out of the tent, hoping
to not be seen by them. If people saw me, then they would freak out and my
cover would be blown. I had to see if Eddie was freaking out or not. Then, I
would decide what I would do.
I could just run away if this whole thing went badly. I managed to sneak
onto the path into the woods. Now I just had to find them. I walked for a few
minutes, stumbling over my own feet because I was still lightheaded, until I
finally saw them in the distance. I was back on the battlefield, except for high
up like I was with Noah before I went in. I could see Deonesus talking with
the three of them.

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 I snuck towards them and hid behind a rock. I peeked out from over top of
it and saw that the three guys were sitting down with their backs to me.
Deonesus was facing them. His voice was very deep.
As the kings of Celestia, you will rule the lands from the palace of
Celsoliel on the edge of the Eastern Ocean. It is a few miles from here.
His voice trailed off and I realized that he was looking right at me.
I ducked below the rock and prayed that they hadnt seen me. I held my
breath for a few seconds until Deonesus continued.
Yes, your coronation is at sundown. He finished.
I peeked back over.
Only Noah seemed excited. This is so cool! Do we get crowns and stuff?
Deonesus nodded solemnly. Eddie was sitting next to Noah, picking at the
grass. What does it matter anyway? He said dejectedly.
Deonesus didnt take his eyes off of me the whole time. Sam sighed. It
was part of the prophecy Eddie. She saved your life. Deal with it. It was going
to happen no matter what you did. Yes, we all miss her, but shes not coming
back so youre just going to have to move on.
I cant move on, Sam. He rubbed his face. God, I should have seen it
coming. I should have told here to stay at the tent, not that she would have
listened to me anyway.
Noahs eyes got huge. But, we were on a super secret spy mission!
I slapped myself in the forehead.
Eddie scrunched his eyebrows. Noah, I told her to stay behind with you
because I didnt want you guys to get hurt.
What? There were no spies?
Eddie shook his head. Sorry.
Oh.
Deonesus still stared at me intently. I was not liking where this was going.
Noah cleared his throat.
Umm, Mr. Deonesus?
Yes, young Noah?
I was, um, wondering, well you see when I was in the dungeons at the ice
castle thing, I saw that there were a bunch of creatures locked up. One of
them was my friend. His name is Mr. Underwood. He makes really good
cookies and I was hoping that we could maybe free them?
Deonesus nodded. As you wish. We can travel there shortly.
Noah smiled. Good. Hopefully it will be less scary there now that Bernard
isnt ruling.
Just then, Eddie looked up at Deonesus. What happened to Bernard
anyway? One second he was there and the next he disappeared. I never got

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the chance to kill him for what he did.
Deonesus nodded. I banished him to an island far away in the Eastern
Ocean. It is a gruesome place. I believed that it was a fate worse than
death.
Eddie nodded. Good. He deserves it. When Im king, Im going to make
sure that he regrets what he did, every single day for the rest of his
miserable life.
I swallowed deeply. Great.
Deonesus nodded. As you wish. I cannot stop you. The Bruhara is
defeated. Her reign is over. Winter is no more. This is your land now.
Sam whistled. So were really in charge?
Deonesus nodded. Yes, Samuel.
So, umm whats your policy on, uh, hooking up with maidens?
Oh my god, Sam.
Deonesus frowned. I beg your pardon?
Noah sighed. He wants to take a queen.
Deonesus nodded. Yes, my king. I would actually encourage taking a
queen. It is very good for alliances.
Noah started to say something but Sam cut him off, and put his finger on
his nose. Dibs on Zola! Ha! I called it!
Eddie had been quiet this entire time. Finally, he picked his head up.
Thats, thats great for you Sam. Im so glad that you will get to be happy
for the rest of your life. He said angrily.
Sam nodded. Thanks! I appreciate it! He shot back annoyed.
Deonesus looked down at Eddie. Edward, I am sure that everything will
be fine. He said looking up at me, and then back down at Eddie. Give the
magic a little bit more time. It might still work.
Eddie shook his head. Its been too long. It didnt work. Shes gone.
Noah patted him on the shoulder. Its okay. Im sure well find you
someone else. I mean we are in Celestia. There are so many possibilities.
No Noah! Eddie yelled. He paused a second to calm down. I, I dont
want anyone else.
They were silent.
Eddie shook his head. Do you know, do you have any idea what her last
words to me were?
Noah shook his head slowly. I could tell that he felt bad.
Eddies voice lost all of its power. She, she said that she loved me He
said slowly throwing down the pieces of grass in his hand.
Not my best move, I will admit.
Noah and Sams eyes widened. Eddie didnt wait for them to answer. He

106
kept picking at the grass miserably. He took a deep breath. And do you
know what I said?
They both shook their heads. Deonesuss eyes were still fixed on me. I felt
really bad for not stopping Eddies misery, but I wanted to hear what he had
to say. I know, Im a horrible person.
Eddie threw the grass down. I didnt say anything. I didnt say anything
at all.
Sam and Noah exhaled deeply. Noah looked up at him. Why not?
Eddie continued. I didnt know what to say. I was in shock. I was scared.
I was scared of what have might happened if I did. You know, Lily always told
me that she loved me, but I never said it back. I never wanted to, but now
that I had someone I wanted to say it to, I couldnt.
Noah sighed and looked up at Eddie concerned. So you never got to tell
her how you really felt?
Eddie sighed. No
Sam cut him off. Dude, dont tell me that you were actually in love with
her. I was joking around earlier with the whole matchmaker you guys are in
love thing. That was a joke!
Well, its not now.
Dude its been like a week! You cant seriously be in love with her. He
said dumbfounded.
Eddie sighed. Sam, when you know, you know. Time is irrelevant.
The color drained from my face.
He loves me.
Sam exhaled deeply. Well thats good because she is going to be
spending a lot of time dead. Her life will never be complete because you
never said how you felt. She will be wondering in heaven forever what you
were thinking, alone.
Eddie looked down. Exactly.
Sam opened his mouth but paused. Wait, I wasnt being serious!
Eddie shook his head. No, youre right Sam. If I could do it all over, I
would. Id just walk right up to her and say, and say His voice started to
trail.
Deonesus met eyes with me. He nodded once, and I understood that it
was time. Oh god. I walked from behind my hiding place, until I was behind
them.
And say what? I asked him, my voice wavering.
All three of them whipped their heads around at the exact same time.
Eddie and Sam jumped up. Their mouths dropped open. Sams eyes widened.
Thats impossible. He whispered.

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 Noah started to smile and look back and forth from Deonesus and me.
This is so great. I knew that you would be alive! I just knew it!
I smiled back at him, and then my eyes fell on Eddie. He was just staring
at me, like he didnt think that I was real. He backed away slowly. He turned
to Deonesus. Deonesus nodded.
Yes, Edward. Shes real.
I took a step forward. Eddie?
He whipped his head back around to face me, staring at me. I smiled.
I could hear Deonesus behind us. Come. Let us leave these two. Noah?
Hmm? He replied, still mesmerized that I was alive.
I believe that its time to pay your friend Underwood a visit. He said.
Really? Noah said excited.
Yes, Samuel?
What? Sam asked uninterested.
Miss Zola is waiting for you. Deonesus said sternly, trying to get Sam to
go with him.
But, but, aww fine. Im coming. He said, admitting defeat.
Coronation is at sundown. Do not be late. I will meet you there.
Deonesus said.
Eddie and I stared at each other. Honestly, I didnt even know what to say.
He breathed a sigh of relief. Mal?
I nodded.
He shook his head. I, I dont know how this is possible. How are you...
I shrugged, walking towards him.
Wow, this is...I never thought I... He looked down and exhaled, at a loss
for words.
I stopped in front of him. Me neither.
I just, I cant believe its you. He reached out to touch my arm and then
moved his hand up to my face. It is you, right?
I smirked. Who else would willing kiss an evil and ugly jerk to save your
life?
He grinned. Only you. He said, pulling me to kiss him.
I let go of him and put my head against his chest. He leaned his head on
mine, holding me tight. That was some turn you took at saving my life.
I started to laugh. Well you know, go big or go home, right?
Mallory, I honestly thought that you were dead.
I was.
He shook his head. Dont remind me. I was the one that had to carry you
back.
I swallowed. I, Im sorry.

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 I still cant believe that you did that. He said slowly.
Me neither.
He sighed. Although it was probably one of the worst moments of my life,
I have to admit that it was kind of brilliant.
Thanks. I was scared out of my mind.
He took a deep breath. I want to apologize.
I let go and looked up at him. Why on earth are you apologizing?
Well lets see, besides the fact that I completely ignored you for the past
six years, I cant think of anything major. He said annoyed.
Its okay I started, but he cut me off.
No, its not. I mean look at us now. I have been avoiding this, avoiding
us, for years. He said, holding out his arms. And I am so sorry for that.
Its okay. I smiled.
Something in my brain just clicked, and now it all makes sense.
I nodded. It does?
Yes, now it kind of freaked me out when you, you know said that thing
before you died but, but it helped
I stopped him. I know that weve only been talking, like I mean actually
talking, for like a week. It was way too soon, but hear me out. If you were on
the verge of death, wouldnt you do the same thing? Just in case you never
got to do it later? I mean, you know me. I tend to do crazy stuff when I am
about to die.
He stopped me. Mallory, I love you. He said, grabbing my arms.
Iwhat?
He smiled. I love you.
You do?
Yes. He said, kissing me.
Oh my god!
I, well...
He put his forehead against mine. I didnt know until you died, but thats
when it clicked. Thats when I realized I couldnt live with out you and I dont
know why the hell my brain thinks that, but Im starting to believe it and just
go with it.
I laughed. Maybe our brains are trying to tell us something.
He put his arm around me as we started to walk back. Yeah, theyre
pretty impatient though. I mean they didnt even let me take you on a date
first.
Well, I mean, you can still do that.
He laughed. I will.
This was seriously the greatest moment of my life.

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 As we were walking back, I felt lightheaded again. I started to sway and I
almost fell over. Eddie grabbed me. Whoa.
I touched my head. Sorry. I just felt really dizzy all of a sudden.
Im not surprised. You lost a lot of blood.
My eyes widened. I did?
Most, if not all, onto me, but thats okay. He said, forcing a smile.
I looked up at him. Oh my god. Im so sorry.
No, Mal. Dont worry about it. Its fine. He said reassuringly.
I shook my head. No! Its embarrassing!
It is?
Yes!
Why? You dont have like a contagious blood disease do you? He asked,
trying to hold back a smile.
I hit him in the arm and started to laugh. No.
Then, whats there to worry about?
Nothing. I smiled.
We walked back into the tent and saw that most of my stuff had already
been taken to the palace. Eddie and I decided to walk towards the palace.
You know, so that we could spend more time together, because there wasnt
a war or anything.
I was honestly living my dream.
By the time that we finally started to walk up the steps, the sun was
starting to set. Well, perfect timing. The castle was decorated with banners
and flowers. It was beautiful.
My mind wandered to the future. What was going to happen? Do we stay
forever? I wanted to. I wanted to so bad. There was no way I could go home
now. As we got closer to the door, I sighed.
Eddie, wait. I said, stopping on the steps.
He turned to look back at me. What?
What now?
Umm, theyll tell us what to do Im sure. He said, reaching for my hand.
I forced a smile. Thats not what I meant. I mean what are we going to do
now? The wars over, they crown you and give you a country?
He shrugged. Thats the general idea.
Not very descriptive.
So were not going back home? I asked.
Eddie sighed. Mallory this is our home.
But what about
He cut me off. I dont want to think about Napa.
What!

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 I smiled surprised. You like it better here?
He looked at me, his big blue eyes shining. Yeah.
Thank god. I liked it so much better here. I was just slightly confused as
to why he wanted to stay. I mean, his life at our other home was pretty
amazing.
You do? But youre amazing in Napa. Youre perfect. What about your
friends, and school, and, and your parents! My eyes widened.
He touched my hand. Mal, no time has passed. They dont even know
were gone. Its okay.
I shook my head, confused. Eddie, I dont understand. Why would you
want to give all that up? I mean its your entire life!
He leaned to whisper in my ear. I dont know. He paused. I must be in
love or something.
Whoa hold on. I didnt think that we were actually...
I mean we just started...
I hardly even...
The color drained from my face.
He pulled back to look at me. He scrunched his eyebrows. Or...maybe Im
not?
I reached up and rubbed his arms. Eddie, I, I looked down. Okay, I only
thought we said that to each other because I died. I said as my cheeks
reddened.
Oh. He said quietly.
I mean, I hardly... My voice trailed.
He stopped me. You dont think that were at the I love you, I love you
too stage yet?
I nodded.
He nodded once and looked away from me. Mal, Ive never said that to
anyone outside my family.
Me neither. I replied, hoping he didnt see my eyes widen.
He didnt love Lily.
Because Ive never been in love before.
Me neither.
I dont really know what to do.
Me neither.
He looked back to me. So Im just going to say it and you can say it back
whenever youre comfortable, okay? He asked.
I nodded and met his eyes.
He pushed my chin up and kissed me lightly. I love you.
I swallowed and forced a smile.

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 He smiled back at me and turned to meet Orion in the hall.
I was left alone.
I did love him. More than anything I think. Why couldnt I say it to him?
I looked into the palace. The grand hall was packed with Celestians talking
and laughing. That was when I realized that we had just freed these
creatures from suffering for the past however many thousands of years. We
did it. We saved them.
I could see Noah in his little king getup talking to this faun. Im guessing
that that was Mr. Underwood. Ive been told that he makes good cookies.
I looked around some more and I saw that Sam was talking to Zola. Still
the charmer. I rolled my eyes and laughed.
I walked towards the front of the hall. No one really paid me that much
attention, which was fine. I mean I was supposed to be dead. They all
thought I had disappeared with Bernard when I sacrificed myself.
I turned around and walked out onto this huge balcony. It was overlooking
the beautiful ocean. Wow, I could get used to this. To be honest, I really had
no idea what I was going to do from now on. I didnt really have a job. I
wasnt royalty. I dont know. Id find something to do.
I heard a growl that echoed through the hall. Everyone was silent.
Deonesus made some big huge speech about a new dynasty. I dont know, I
wasnt really listening. At the end, it was King Noah the Brave, which was
fitting because well he was the one who led us here in the first place and ran
off by himself to go look for Mr. Underwood. King Samuel the Great, yeah, I
really didnt get that one, but, umm, sure he was, I guess. And of course,
High King Edward the Magnificent.
After they were crowned, the party began. I debated trying to find them,
but there were so many creatures that I couldnt see. So I decided to stay on
the balcony. I leaned on the railing and looked out over the ocean.
After a few minutes, I could hear someone behind me. He stood next to
me and leaned on the stone railing. We didnt say anything. I kept looking
out to the ocean. I smiled after a few seconds. So, magnificent huh? I
asked.
Eddie smiled and took off his crown. Yeah, Im not really digging the
getup but the crown, thats a nice touch.
I bumped into him with my shoulder. Youll make a good king.
He laughed. High King.
Oh sorry.
We were silent for a second.
I exhaled. I love you too. I blurted out.
He turned to me, surprised. Well that happened quicker than I expected

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it to.
I smiled. I just wanted you to know that I do. I paused. But, I dont think
Im ready to say it all the time though.
He nodded. We dont have to.
Its just, its too soon, and
He cut me off. We can slow down if you want to, thats fine. He said.
I could sense a bit of nervousness in his voice some reason.
Thank you. I said with relief. I turned back to the ocean. Lets just enjoy
it.
Eddie looked to the water. This is some view.
I nodded. It is.
We get to wake up everyday to this.
I laughed. Dibs on the room that faces the ocean.
He was silent.
I looked down. What, did you want the room that faces the ocean?
He was still silent.
I smiled and looked at him. Maybe Ill let you have it.
He suddenly became very interested in his crown in his hands.
I moved over close to him and smirked. For a price. I said kissing his
cheek.
He exhaled deeply and backed away from me.
I scrunched my eyebrows and turned around. Eddie?
He shook his head. Mal, I...
Whats wrong?
He tried to speak, but no words came out. He paused and nodded. He
stepped back towards me. He exhaled. Mal, okay, listen.
Did I do something wrong?
No, no, its just that, okay I know you want to slow down but...
What is going on?
I swallowed deeply. Eddie, what?
He nodded once. Okay, I talked to Orion before the coronation.
So?
He looked down. So, he essentially told me that dating isnt really a thing
here in Celestia, especially not for the royalty.
What?
Well he used bigger words but basically what it boils down to is that
dating is frowned upon as immoral.
So, we, we cant...
He cut me off. Yes.
But then, what are we...

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 He rubbed his face. This is where youre going to freak out. He groaned
under his breath.
Excuse me?
He sighed and looked up. Mal, if we want to stay together, I have to
formally take you as my queen.
The color drained from my face. I tried to think of something to say, but I
couldnt. Finally after a minute, I nodded. Umm, so
He cut me off. So if I asked you right now to marry me, what would you
say? He asked hesitantly.
I exhaled deeply. I dont think I could fully comprehend what exactly was
happening right now. This had to be a dream.
An amazing dream. But still a dream.
I turned around and looked back out over the ocean. I leaned on the rail. I
didnt know what to say. I had no idea of how even to begin to respond to
that.
I heard Eddie behind me. You know, in keeping with the theme of moving
way too fast in our relationship. He added moving to stand next to me and
leaning on the railing.
I bit my lip to hide my smile.
We were silent for a minute. My mind was lost in thought. I could picture
myself married to him. I could picture it perfectly, and I wanted to be, but I
dont think I was ready. Im not ready! This was like years of a relationship all
smashed into one week! My goodness! I cant keep it all straight! This is not
happening!
Eddie nodded. Mal, can you say something please?
I swallowed. I want to.
He sighed with relief. Really? Honestly I am
I stopped him. But...
He looked down. Oh.
I shook my head. Im not ready.
He nodded. I know.
Why is everything moving so fast?
I dont know, Im sorry.
Do we have to get married right now? I asked, looking at him.
No, we can wait until youre ready to say it all the time. He said, forcing
a smile.
I could imagine saying I love you every single day to him. I really could,
if only my brain would let my heart do the talking, but apparently my brain is
the more rational one of the two.
I laughed. Thank you.

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 We can just call it an engagement. He paused. Like a five-year
engagement or a ten-year engagement or whenever youre ready.
I nodded. Fair enough.
We dont have to act like a married couple at all.
We dont? I frowned.
Unless you want to. He stuttered. Whatever you want to do.
I smiled.
And if you find someone else you want to marry when the time comes,
thats fine I understand.
I raised my eyebrows. What like a tree?
He laughed. If you want to marry a tree, I will let you.
I shrugged. Trees arent really my type.
He turned to me. So youre stuck with me I guess, unless I dont know,
you have a thing for dwarves or fauns or something.
I shook my head. No, no, I dont see that happening.
He nodded. Well, then Id like to give it a shot.
Do I still get the room facing the ocean?
We can share it. He said, leaning closer to me.
Fine. I laughed.
And Ill still take you on a date. I dont know where, but we will find
somewhere.
Good.
So is that a yes? He asked, putting his forehead against mine.
I nodded and kissed him. Yes.

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