Curse of the Black Rose: A Tale of Sleeping Beauty

Chapter 1

Once upon a time, in the beautiful land of Acedia, there reigned two powerful kingdoms. To the mighty northern mountains was the kingdom of Selena ruled by King Malchior and Queen Aisha. Endymion was the small kingdom of the southern quiet plains ruled by King Rana and Queen Miriam. These mighty monarchs ruled the peaceful land yet longed for children. One day, their prayers were answered. Selena was blessed with six children: three boys and three girls. To Malchior's delight, his children went throughout the lands to rule in their respected kingdoms. Many years later, Endymion received two sons but they longed for a daughter. Selena was blessed again with a daughter and two years later, both kingdoms received a daughter. Soon, a festival was proclaimed throughout the world. Everyone was invited to pay homage to the future rulers at the northern castle of the smoky blue mountains.

King Rana stood on the balcony entranced by the vast majority of people who came to see his beloved little princess. Yet he was more enthralled by the impeccable beauty of Selene. Luscious green forests surrounded the kingdom and was home to some of the wildest and exotic creatures known to man. The air was crisp, cool and fresh. Rana closed his eyes and inhaled then gently exhaled.

"I thought you might find you here."

Rana turned around to comfort the two friendly bright blue eyes of Malchior.

"You always come when I am meditating." Rana exaggerated. "I can never get a quiet moment without you ruining it." 

"My apologies, my good friend," Malchior said putting his hand his friend's shoulder. "How can you find a quiet moment when the whole world is here?"

Rana chuckled.

"I cannot, it seems."

"Then come," Malchior began. "Let us rejoice and celebrate our good fortune and blessed future."

They left the balcony and traveled the stony beautifully aged castle to the main hall. The room glittered with gaiety as people from all over the world showed off their wealth from their dazzling robes to their stunning jewels. Each guest brought a special present for the new rulers. One could not imagine if the new princess would ever open all her gifts. Rana and Malchior walked the hallways and greeted each guest when one of the lords hastily approached them

"Your majesties,"

The short lean man with thick dark hair and a trimmed mustache dressed in a forest green tailored vest and dark pants with sturdy boots. A long silver sword rested on his left hip and swung back in its sheath as he bowed humbly before their majesties.

"Rise, Lord Adam." Malchior said. 

"Why so gloomy?" Rana asked.

"It is you daughter." The noble lord answered. "I cannot find her. She has disappeared."

Rana was not sure what the nobleman meant as he stressed the words but his friend caught whiff of what was happening. Suddenly, Malchior caught a glimpse of two small hands poking from behind the towering curtains hanging among the enormous glass windows.

"May I draw your attention to the windows, Lord Adam." Malchior said with a smiled. The two men followed him as they approached the windows and came next the lush red curtains. "By looking into the glass, one can see one's reflection as well as the truth." He caught a glimpse of little movements ducking behind the bright fabric. "Unfortunately, when we see the truth, we want to hide from it." He leaned in closure towards the window. "I'm afraid that applies to you, my darling."

Lord Adam pulled the curtain back to reveal the small little girl who bolted from her hiding place and right into her father.

"Gotcha ya!" He cried as he poked her shoulder. "You're it!"