Cruelty & The Beast {Completed}

My confinement was none the less than last time. The castle walls were still luxurious and intricate but yet they were dull and continuously frozen into place. All my surrounds were the same, never changing because they weren’t allowed to. And my freedoms had been perished long ago the day that I stepped foot into this horrifying/wondrous castle which belonged to my guardian/lover. My imprisonment is one of those things in which it will not be demolished. 1

My dreams, however, have not been demolished. They were are of me living freely outside these large walls, wandering outside in the meadows, picking fresh cut roses and enjoying the warmth that the sun gave. But that would never occur, I knew more than well now to not disobey the king (my supposed lover) Yoshiki. To do so would only bring me painful and severe punishments that seemed inhuman and more than obeying. Somehow I knew how to avoid all chastisement, by obeying wisely. I had done it only for the child which had once been inside of me for only three month’s, whose father was Yoshiki. And another reason was because I was forced into obeying him and loving him. It was easier to succumb to him and give him what he wants because I know that I’ll never be able to leave him, not even in death. 2

I had spent three months of my pregnancy wearing elegant dresses and jewelry and having these strange cravings all through out the day and night. Yoshiki was glad for us having a child, one reason was for having an heir one day when he dies. Timidly, he would speak of how he wanted to father a son instead of a daughter for royal purposes. I never engaged in these conversations. 3

When I was nearly four months pregnant, I lost our child. On that day, I had been walking down the long staircase, heading to the parlor room where I was to meet Yoshiki’s newest worker. It was a woman who would be cleaning the castle rooms, a maid was what she was. I had been wearing my new gown, a long and white laced dress which covered my beasts and made of the most expensive silk. Accidentally, I tripped on the fabric on the hem of the dress, my heels stepping on the fabric. I suddenly slipped and had no time to stop myself, no time to grab the rail. I tumbled down the stairs and hit the ground hard, landing on my stomach. By the time Yoshiki found me, I laid at the bottom of the stairs, crying out and clutching my stomach intensely with blood seeping out between my legs. 4

The four months that followed, I lived in deep despair. For days at a time, I locked myself in my bedroom, doing absolutely nothing but lingering around and staring out the large window. I always held onto my stomach, desperately thinking that I still had a fetus growing inside of me.  When it came time to eat, I refused to eat and so I would be held down and forced fed against my will. At nights, I longed to be with my unborn child and I would hysterically cry and scream, unable to sleep. Not even Yoshiki’s soft and seductive touch calmed me down, because I simply could not calm down or forget about what happened. 5

Yoshiki tried to get me to forget about our decease unborn baby in many ways. He even attempted to drug me with the latest medications but that only made me worse. One of the medicines caused me to have a severe seizure and another one caused me to vomit blood and hallucinate. I ended up refusing all medicines and demanded that they be disposed of. Eventually, it worked. 6

At most times, I was furious with Yoshiki for doing this to me, to get me to forget about our child. He never even comforted me, not once and tried to erase my memory. How could he even try to erase my memory? A mother can never forget about her child and its death, whether her child has been born or not. She will always remember her child, no matter the circumstance. To do so would be an atrocity. 7

In my time of sorrow, it was Lucian who was truly there for me. He was the kindest of all men and out shined all men, even Yoshiki. When I wept, it was Lucian who held me closely. And when I fell ill, he came to my aid and never left my side. I’ve never met any man like him before. He was more than chivalrous towards me. His hair was brown and in light and small curls and beautifully long. His skin was creamy white and absolutely flawless. And his eyes were an ice and steel blue. His body was attractive, fit, and muscular. He was truly something. 8

I found true love the day Lucian came to comfort me by the orders of the king because he couldn’t do it himself. I remember hearing his angelic and velvet smooth voice for the very first time. It was like Heaven had finally come down to Earth. And his touch was so gentle, gingerly. Not only did I fall in love with him, but he also fell in love with me. 9

But Lucian and I could never be together, for he worked for Yoshiki as a guard. In fact, he was the same exact guard would first brought me here. And I was supposed to be Yoshiki’s lover and he had just made me queen. If Yoshiki found out, he would kill or punish Lucian and then punish me terribly. I did not want that to happen at all so the two of us came up with a fool proof plan that just had to work. 10

So, both Lucian and I decided to be secret about our relationship, an affair. We always met in his quarters, in his room at night. Yoshiki would always be busy out in torture rooms so I wouldn’t be missed. We would greet each other with a hug and then a kiss full of so much passion. Some nights we held hands or each other and talked for hours, enjoying each other’s company. Other nights we made love, pure love. His hands felt good on my bare body as they would slide up and down my sides and hips. His hands were gentle, even when anger consumed him. His perfectly shaped hips thrusted forward in between my legs, a shock of pleasure always seeming to surge through me. And how his seductive lips brushed up against my bare skin. 11

Oh how Lucian was a great lover! Only if there was a way for us to be together completely and out in public….
12

 13

   After the final wave of pleasure surged through me, I relaxed and he pulled out of me quickly, both of us out of breath. Sweat beaded his face slightly and he lay down beside me, stroking my hair. 14

“Do you really have to go?” I asked him dolefully. He only sighed, a reaction to my question. 15

“Of course I must go. It’s the king’s orders for me to be in this fight. I don’t understand it either, since it’s his fight and not any of ours. But I am the leader after all, and so I must do this.” He answered me, kissing me on my arm. 16

“For how long?” I asked. 17

“Three days, I suppose. May be longer. Who knows.” He replied. I grabbed onto his hand and held it tightly, not wanting to let him go but knowing that I would have to, eventually. 18

“So, you’re leaving tomorrow morning?” I inquired softly. He turned to look at me again and laughed faintly. 19

“Christine, you ask too many questions, do you realize that? You’re always so full of curiosity, always wondering about things. You think too much but yes, I’m leaving tomorrow morning.” He smiled. 20

“What will I do when you’re gone? Yoshiki left two hours ago on a business trip. He has to take care of the fight between the other kingdom and he won’t be back for five days.” Yoshiki had caused trouble with a nearby kingdom by disregarding their king Chamberlain by killing one of his best men. The reason is quite unknown for why he had him killed but it was probably not a very good reason at all. King Chamberlain of Yorkshire then declared a battle against Yoshiki and now Lucian and all the other men must fight this battle. 21

“You’ll think of something to keep yourself occupied. It’ll only be for three days. And Yoshiki is far away from here, so you’ll be able to roam around. There are no guards or anything here until I get back. He did leave you under my supervision, after all.” He stated, always thinking on the bright side. “Now, why don’t you sleep? You have not been sleeping well lately.” 22

“But if I close my eyes, you will not be here in the morning to say goodbye.” I replied. 23

“I promise to wake you up and say farewell.” He promised me. “It’s not a final goodbye, you know…” 24

 25

   The sun shone down on the Earth, three days later, as it set down, the sky a beautiful pink, orange and purple haze color twirled in together. The air was filled with that of the fresh roses down below the balcony and with the smell of long awaiting victory. I stood near the edge of the balcony, overlooking the valley beyond the castle grounds. In the distance, I saw what appeared to be horsemen, gallant horsemen with a strong broad man in the front. My heart instantly melted. 26

I hurried out of the bedroom and hurried down the hall and down the stairs, careful to not trip on the stairs again. I practically ran out of the front double doors and out into the open, the fresh air hitting me right in the face. Walking down the pathway and around the castle until I was behind it, I stood there and waited without punishment. With Yoshiki gone, I had no restrictions, no rules, no nothing but Lucian. So for once I was free, even if it was for only a few days. 27

Lucian was the first to finally arrive, then the others. His long curly hair blew swiftly in the breeze as he rode upon his horse. His posture was straight and lean. I smiled as he reached closer and once he was within reaching distance, I saw how a joyful smile was formed on his face that was charming. 28

He climbed off his horse elegantly. We stared at each other with flickering eyes that glistened in the twilight. I looked him up and down as well. He wore armor of silver and his sword was put away. 29

Once the other men left us, he grabbed me and scooped me up in his strong arms. He twirled me around and I wrapped my arms around him affectionately. A minute later he set me down and we let go of each other. Then we kissed each other with so much passion, so much love.30

“I’ve missed you, wondering about you. At first, I was worried about you. But then I remembered how much of a fighter you were I knew that you’d be back.” I smiled with love. 31

He stroked my cheek. “Nothing bad will ever happen to me, Christine. I will always come back to you, always. And I’ve though about you during ever waking moment.” 32

I blushed at a high degree. “Oh Lucian, you will never expire in making me so loved. I believe that you’re the only one who truly loves me, besides my father who once did.” 33

He took my hand and held it in his, our fingers entwining. “I will never love anyone more than I love you. There will be no one else, I swear.” 34

“As do I,” I softly reply.35

“Now, I believe it’s your birthday. Tell me, how old are you?” He was up to something, I knew it. Maybe it was a special surprise that he had for some, something beautiful or delicious. Whatever it was, I was sure it would be great. 36

“I am seventeen now, while you are twenty-nine. I am still young while everyone around me is above the legal age.” I crooned. He silenced me profoundly. 37

“Don’t speak of such a thing! You may be only seventeen years of age while I’m nearly thirty but you are young still. Be grateful that you are and do not worry about ages! Age does no matter when it comes to love, my queen.” He nearly exclaimed. 38

Of course I know age doesn’t matter in love. But that’s only if you’re with the person you truly love and I am in love with you. It’s more than true love, I believe…” I stated. 39

“Certainly, you must also love the king?” He inquired. 40

“I guess I do, Lucian, but I have mixed emotions for him. I mean, he kidnapped me and then beat and raped me like he does to all his prisoners. How could I ever try loving a man like that? It is you Lucian that I love and hold dear.” I explained, taking his face in my hands. “And besides I could never love a man who murders and rapes girls and who murdered my parents so coldly!” 41

“Well then, I am highly grateful that you think so. Come now, my love and let me give you your birthday presents.” He happily smiled. 42

We ate dinner in candlelight in the dining room, the wondrous and delectable meal prepared for me by the head chef. The meal consisted of roasted chicken, potatoes and rice dipped in butter, vegetables, and red wine made from the finest wine company in Ravens. For dessert was a chocolate cake with strawberry filing and cherries on top which was my favorite. 43

After we ate, Lucian led me up to my bedroom this time since Yoshiki was not here. He closed the door and locked it once we were inside. We kissed until he seductively pushed me down onto the bed, climbing on top of me without saying anything or muttering a word. Hastily, we tore each other’s clothes off and haphazardly threw them to the floor. He sent unbearable kisses down upon my chest and neck. His lips felt so warm on my pale cool skin and his fingers teased me as they trailed ever inch of my body, down my thighs, and hips. 44

My head tilted back as my back arched back. I placed my hands on his shoulders, gripping them and knowing that I would need to. I kissed him along his neck as he forced himself inside me hard, thrusting in and then out of me. He continued to thrust in and out of me rapidly and harder like I desired him too. The bed shook from him fucking me and my body moved into rhythm with his. 45

All the while, his hands started to slide underneath me, playfully grabbing my ass. A few times, he would lift me up and then slap my ass erotically since I had a crazed excitement for it. Returning the favor, I grabbed his perfectly shaped ass and held it within my hands as well. 46

Once or twice, he fucked me so hard that it caused me to gasp out nearly in pain. But I disguised the pain by moaning out in pleasure and begging for him to go harder and faster. I loved how he fed me nothing but pleasure, how he made the adrenaline run through my pulsating veins so intensely. 47

Half an hour later, he pulled out of me breathlessly and lay down beside me with sweat upon his face. I used my hand to wipe the slight sweat away. We kissed once. Twice. Thrice. I moved closer to his naked body and snuggled myself up against him with my head underneath his chin. He stroked my hair and cheek, kissing me in between. 48

“I wish this night would never end.” I whispered in a secret tone. 49

“As do I but he’ll be coming back soon enough. I hate to have it as much as you do. After tomorrow he shall arrive.” He replied. “All good things must come to an end eventually.” 50

“Because of Yoshiki, we can never truly be together, Lucian. I hate hiding our relationship. It’s not wrong for us to be together.” I frowned. 51

“Be grateful we are together, even secretly. I’ve seen what he does to you when you disobey him. When you first came here, I witnessed it. Your screams and cries were to agonizing for me. I don’t want that to happen again.” Lucian said. 52

“And I don’t want anything to happen to you. I wish we could do something about it.” I replied. 53

“Like get rid of him? We could do no such thing! He’s the king, Christine! And besides, we’d be no better than he is. Murder is not something you want to have on your conscious.” He exclaimed. 54

“I am sorry Lucian for thinking such things. How foolish and sinister I must’ve sounded. But we can’t hide this forever, you know. Eventually, we’ll have to do something about it. “I said. “Because I won’t allow him to take you away from me.” 55

“I would do the same for you.” He replied. 56

“Lucian,” I called out his name softly. 57

“What is it, my love?” He asked. 58

“I love you with all my heart.” I admitted once again. 59

“As I love you,” He smiled charmingly. I couldn’t help but smile back. “I’ll love you even in death for death cannot do us apart.” 60

I fell asleep in Lucian’s arms. Whenever he held me tight and close, I always felt safe which was something I never felt with Yoshiki. With Yoshiki there was a faint love but not really there. He could be unpredictable with his usual mood swings. One minute he could be pleasant and the next he’d be angry. I always deemed that he would try to strike me with his hand but he always proved me wrong. Being with him wasn’t healthy. I did not truly love Yoshiki, for I only did it to please him, regardless of how attractive he was. 61

In the morning, both Lucian and I got dressed. I changed into a black dress that was lacey, tight, short, and leather. This dress was recently made by the finest designer of Italy. It had been made just for me. The only reason why I received all these luxuries was because of Yoshiki and mainly because I was queen. Being queen, I could have whatever I desired. And Lucian wore a black shirt and leather pants, much to his desire. 62

Once we were both dressed and ready, I was given breakfast in bed by him. I ate eggs, toast, and sausages. He told me that I was allowed or rather should be allowed to eat in bed because I was a queen and so breakfast in bed was fit for a queen like me. A lovely and beautiful royal queen. He joined me as well and then we went down to the library, which was my favorite place of the castle. 63

The library was very old and huge, which contained every book possibly published or made in the world, all translated into English. In order to get to the very top shelf you had to climb up one of those sliding ladders since the top self was nearly up to the ceiling. In the middle of the room was a long coffee table and green and black velvety chairs surrounded it. Candles of all colors were lit on the table and a few literature books rested beside them. 64

I could spend hours in here, maybe days! I would always get lost in the imagery of the books that I read. They were so vivid, so descriptive that I felt like I was actually there. Books and writing were my true escape. It was the only way for me to leave the castle where I could be curious and never get in trouble for it. 65

Lucian took out a book full of love poetry and flipped through the book, looking as if he was searching for one. And in fact, he came across a love sonnet by William Shakespeare. With deep passion, he recited it and stared at me as if he memorized the poem:
66

 67

 68

And then, he read recited a poem that he came up with all on his own:

 69

Oh my sweet queen,
How you sparkle in the sunlight
And glitter in the evening.
Your flickering eyes are so deep and keen
That they forever keep me lost in your heart.
Your love is something special,
Something so secretive that we must keep it hidden.
And we must hide our love for it shall be forbidden
Or the fiery depths of Hell will take it away.
My love, is that something you will risk to lose?
To die for?
Well, I would die for you a thousand times, my love
For you are the blood in my pulsating veins
That keeps my heart still beating.                                            70

Forevermore I shall love you,
Even in death. 71

I blushed yet again as I listened to his poem. It was so beautiful and touching, I have never heard one like it, because it came from his heart and only his own. I silently said it along with him, memorizing it. I kept it locked away in my heart. No one could ever deprive me of it, not even if my heart bled and was ripped out of my chest. His words were so kind and gentle yet he harbored me no ill will. 72

These were the moments I longed for each and every day. These were the moments that I cherished the most and the ones that made me happy in prosper. Live long and prosper, with Lucian. That was what I lived for now, nothing else. Not to be a lover/queen of a ruthless king. I was not that kind of person who would just let happen. To do that would be a worse deed than committing it myself. 73

Sadly, it was noon when Yoshiki arrived at the castle. Knowing me well, he strolled into the library, carefully eyeing Lucian and me but not suspecting a single thing. I stood up and greeted him like I was supposed to. We hugged and kissed. I knew that Lucian was jealous because he could not show me any affection publicly. I could sense his jealously, how horrible he felt whenever Yoshiki touched and kissed me. 74

“How did things go?” I wrapped my arms around Yoshiki’s waist without thinking. He picked up my hand and trailed my fingers along his jaw line. 75

“Surprisingly well. Everything’s all set for now. And how were you? I see you’re wearing your new outfit…” He answered. 76

“I was good, Yoshiki. Things went well. I listened to Lucian and obeyed him at all times.” I reported myself, leaving out exclusive details.” 77

He turned to Lucian. “Is this true? Was she on good behavior?” 78

“Yes my lord, she was absolutely fine. There were no problems at all, I can assure you.” Lucian spoke. 79

Yoshiki nodded his head and turned back to me. “Sorry that I missed your birthday, love. I hope that you forgive me and that you had a great birthday without me.” He beamed. 80

I watched as Lucian walked behind the king. “Yes, I very much did.” I hid my smile that only Lucian saw. For that, I was grateful. 81

Yoshiki removed my hands from his waist and put my hand down, letting my arm falling softly down to my side. He kissed me once more. “Come now, Christine and follow me. I have a belated present for you.” Grabbing me by the hand and then walking off with me, I had no choice but to go with him. I was not disappointed when my love did not follow us. He had work to do, now that the king was back. His hours of relaxation were over now. 82

I was led into the parlor room that was recently furnished and on the table top were a couple of presents wrapped up in what appeared to be shiny wrapping paper. My heart skipped a beat and melted. He had gotten me presents, how thoughtful of him. The two of us sat down and one by one, he handed me the two presents. 83

The first present was a box of chocolates and the second one was a beautiful pendent of ivory, emerald, and silver. In the middle of the pendent was a cross like shape. It was truly beautiful, I have to say. He helped me put the pendent on. 84

“Oh thank you, Yoshiki. This pendent is so wonderful. I don’t know what I did to deserve it.” I smiled happily. Inside, I thought that I did not truly deserve this beautiful present. For the past few months, I’ve been cheating on him and copulating with his right hand guard behind his back. I’ve fallen in love with Lucian and I don’t love Yoshiki, not even a little bit but yet, he still showers me with gifts. That’s because he doesn’t know of us yet. Once he does, that will the be the day that I will fall from grace and loose my angelic and innocent wings.85

“Your welcome, my angel. I knew you would love it. It is fit for a lovely queen like you. You simply deserve the best and it is my duty to make sure you do.” 86

Over the next few weeks, I felt sick. I would experience morning sickness just about every morning like I did when I was once pregnant. And tiredness always consumed me at all times of the day. I had counted the days and so twenty-eight days have passed. My period never came after those twenty-eight days and so after two weeks overdue, it worried me. That was when I discovered the shocking news that I thought I’d never hear again. I was pregnant. 87

My knees went weak and I collapsed against the bed and gasped. I couldn’t believe it. I was pregnant, for the second time. Both at once, I was excited, nervous, and scared. This time I would make sure that I do not lose this baby…88

I sat in my bedroom alone for hours on end that day, determining who the father of my child is. Yoshiki and I haven’t copulated for nearly a month and half now so it couldn’t be him. I was merely two weeks pregnant. Lucian and I had sex two weeks before I became pregnant. It is Lucian who is the father, I just know it! I can’t be anyone else’s! 89

When Yoshiki went out with a client, I ran over to the guards’ quarters and pounded on the door of Lucian’s room several times, calling out his name urgently. He answered the door a minute later and let me inside. His hair was ruffled and he wore no shirt, revealing his hard chest and lustful muscles. 90

“I have urgent news!” I exclaimed to him in a happy and alarming voice as I slammed the door shut. I had to keep this conversation private. 91

“What is it?” He inquired. 92

“I am pregnant, Lucian.” I blurted it out. 93

“So he has bred you yet again, didn’t he? To himself a child, to have an heir to the throne?” He remarked, nearly scoffing with disgust. He sounded bitter and envious, not being able to give me a child as (or so he had thought). 94

“No! It’s your child!” I chimed with excitement. His entire face lit up. He scooped me up in his arms and rained kisses down on me. I cannot describe to you how happy and excited he was. To do so would be illogical. 95

“Oh Christine, this is wonderful news! We are going to be parents! But what about Yoshiki? Clearly he cannot know about this or us.” He gleamed brightly. 96

I seized. I did not think of that. If Yoshiki discovered the fact that Lucian was the biological father of my child, there would be hell to pay. Since Lucian is his right hand guard, he won’t kill him. Instead, he might severely punish him, but that’s a risk that I would never take. 97

“It’s alright sweetheart, don’t cry. It’s not your fault.” He pointed out that I started to cry and he wiped away my tears. Oh how sweet and caring he is! “We shall figure out a way.” 98

“But we can’t hide this from him. It’s impossible to do. Eventually, he’ll find out. Our child cannot be raised like that. I refuse to do so.” I complained. 99

“We’ll have to do what’s right, even if it means letting the king think he’s the father.” He dolefully suggested. 100

My eyes glared with anger. “That’s not right! Yoshiki is not the father so why should he get our child!” I yelled. “I will not let that happen! Never!” 101

“Calm down.” He contorted. 102

“Calm down? I’m pissed off! Aren’t you?” I huffed bitterly. He took me by the wrists and held onto them with roughness. No matter how much I struggled or how much I fought against him, he refused to let go of me. 103

I attempted to kick him but he moved out of the way, He was determined to get me calmed down, to get me to see his views but I despised his views. I would never let my child think of a man (that’s not their father) as their father. I would be a horrible mother if I did that. I wanted my child born and raised with its biological parents. My child deserves that much. 104

“I don’t want him to act as the father. I only want you, no one else because Yoshiki is nothing to me.” I said. I stopped resisting and rested against him, pressing my face against his face. “I demand it to not happen.” 105

“As you wish my queen. Whatever you desire shall come true. I will see that it happens soon enough.” He pressed his lips against mine gently. 106

“As long as he’s alive, our happy ending will never happen. And I’ll be a prisoner until the day he dies. It is so horrid to belong to someone, to be their prisoner, to have to always please them or face the consequence.” I explained lightly. “As I know killing is wrong, something must be done.” 107

Unfortunately, there was no way for us to get rid of Yoshiki, alive. And there wasn’t a simple way either. He kept us at bay, forcing us to keep our relationship. Death is probably the only answer in which I have concluded. Yes, killing Yoshiki. If he was no more, I would be free again, not a prisoner in a castle. I could freely be with Lucian and together we could raise our child without worry. 108

Although I thought this, I knew Lucian was right in a way about killing Yoshiki. We’d be no better than he is but it’s a deed that must be done. I kept justifying it by reassuring myself that it was the right thing to do in order to gain my freedom back. I hoped to god that I was right. 109

In the meantime, I didn’t tell Yoshiki that I was pregnant. He didn’t need to know that fact. It wasn’t his business, didn’t concern him at all. For three long weeks I did my best to hide it from him. Not once did he suspect my odd behavior and my lack of absence. But he did become suspicious of how I wasn’t always in our plush bedroom all night long. 110

“I am wondering, Christine, as to why you are hardly ever in our room at night. I mean, you wander around the castle and just disappear.” He confronted me one night after those three weeks passed. 111

I nearly seized. “It gets boring in the room, always lingering and lounging around and brushing my hair for hours on end. So, I get up and walk around the castle, pondering. Sometimes, I go to the library and read before I decide to go sleep or I merely write. Other times I help out the maids clean up so they can rest and talk to them. It is important to have a social life, you know…” I explained myself to him, lying in the process. None of it was true but he didn’t have to know that. 112

He nodded his head. “Yes well, since I don’t have to go visit any of our prisoners, I will be staying here. It seems that my lack of absence has caused you to be this way.” I silently cursed. How was I supposed to go meet up with Lucian? Surely, Yoshiki would accompany me or follow me and then my love and I would be found out. 113

“Your absence does no such thing. I love going down to the library and helping out the maids. They are most friendly to talk to. Was it not the doctor who told me I should be social?” I held myself together. 114

“Yes, I guess so. And Lucian has done wonders to you while in your time of despair. He truly has helped me make you happy once again. I see it on your face, in your eyes. You’re genuinely happy. Tomorrow, we shall convey him some gratitude. I couldn’t have done it without him.” He placed both his hands on my shoulders. 115

I hid my smug smile. Yes, Lucian has done wonders with me, wonders that you don’t even know about. And yes, he has made me happy, Yoshiki. We’re in love and you don’t even know….

“Why don’t you come stay here with me tonight?” He suddenly suggested. I seized again. I was supposed to be with Lucian tonight. He promised me that he’d take me out under the stars but Yoshiki was growing suspicious so I had to keep him busy, to distract him. 116

“As you wish, my lord.” I gave in to him, swallowing hard. 117

And so exactly one minute later, I found myself lying on the bed on my back, with Yoshiki on top of me. He forced himself inside me several times, thrusting repeatedly. I allowed him to do whatever he desired to me as long as it wouldn’t hurt the baby. And with each thrust, I felt more and more horrible as I pondered about Lucian and how he was probably waiting for me. I had let him down.118

When the next night came, Yoshiki went to the torture room as he was supposed to, which gave me the opportunity to sneak out and go to my shining and bright lover. But little did I know that I was being pursued….119

“How are you doing my love? I haven’t seen you in nearly two days. Everything alright?” Lucian asked me, holding my hand.120

I gripped his hand. “I couldn’t come yesterday. He was suspicious, so I had to occupy him. I’m very sorry.” I answered, lowering my head. 121

“I am not angry although I hate how he gets on you and forces himself inside you. I am only happy that you are here now.” He pleasantly stated. He placed his hands on my pregnant stomach. I was one month pregnant as of now. As he felt my stomach, his face lit up with joy. 122

“You will make a great father.” I smiled. “And a great husband.” We kissed. He took my face in his hands as we kissed romantically. Then, he picked me up by the waist and tossed me onto his bed with easiness. He growled playfully as he pounced on top of me. I let out a feign shriek. He scooped me up in his arms and the both of us began tearing each other’s clothes off. 123

But the door to his room slamming open was faster than us. The both of us stopped dead in our tracks as we stared at the person in the doorway. It was Yoshiki. My heart stopped for a moment. I gasped fearfully. Yoshiki’s face was twisted up into an enraged expression. His hands were clenched into fists. He looked as though he was on a murderous rampage. 124

Not saying a single word, he grabbed me and yanked me off the bed, pushing Lucian away. As hard as he could, he slapped me across the face. 125

“I can explain everything,” I was frantic. 126

He slapped me again. “Guards!” He was screaming now. Before I knew it, two large guards stormed into the room, preparing themselves. He threw me at one of them and the other took Lucian. I struggled with all my strength but I couldn’t break free. The guards were too strong. Lucian, however, did not fight back. He knew it would be useless. 127

“Take her away to the chamber. I want her chained up completely. Have her stripped and ready. I will deal with him.” Yoshiki demanded. My eyes widened with fear. I was going to the torture room! 128

“No, don’t take her there! She can’t go! I won’t let you hurt her!” Lucian fearfully yelled. Yoshiki backhanded him, hard. So badly did Lucian want to scream at Yoshiki that I couldn’t go to the torture room because I was pregnant. Maybe that would stop the king…129

“Please don’t take me there, Yoshiki. You’ll hurt my child! I don’t want to lose this child, not another one. Please.” I pleaded with him. He thought for a moment and then he came to a heartless conclusion, 130

“Take her away.” 131

I looked over at Lucian and saw terrible sorrow in his eyes, on his face. If I didn’t know any better, his heart shattered at that very moment. Everything that we had together was gone, taken away from us. Before I was dragged off, I gave my love the same horrid look.132

The chamber, also known as the torture room was as bleak and stone cold as the last time I stepped foot in there. The only differences are that it is empty and it terrified me to no end. The room was large in size and the horrific items, including the fire pit, made up parts of the room. It was cold but not enough to make me shiver. My eyes widened in fright when I saw how there was blood smudged and splattered on some parts of the floors…and the floor. That was when I felt tremors go down my spine. 133

The guard led me over to the wall on the other side of the room. Without warning, he tore off my clothes without any feeling. In no time, he lifted me up and pushed me against the wall and then chained me to the stone wall like so many other girls before me. I shivered in horror, knowing my fate. I know what’ll happen to me. I’ve witnessed it more than once. I’ve watched Yoshiki as he beat, cut, and raped girls in ways that aren’t even possible. None of them ever got out of it, never escaped. They took the torture and suffered. I would follow the same fate.134

I stared around at my surroundings with teary eyes. I struggled to stay strong, to not break down and cry. To be pathetic and cry would be showing weakness. I had to be strong for my love, and for our unborn baby. After what seemed like a few minutes later, I suddenly heard distant but yet close yells and screams of pain. The screams and yells were so horrifying and painful that it was agonizing, to tell you the truth. And the screams were followed by a ‘swish crack’ sound. I cringed completely. Tears rolled down my face and I nearly screamed out in horror. 135

It was Lucian. He was the one making those screams and yells. He was being beaten, whipped by the hands of Yoshiki. I bit down on my tongue hard and forced myself to not cry out. I pictured him being beaten and how he would be bloody beyond belief, and breathless. Timidly, I prayed to God, begging him to make sure Lucian was alive. All I wanted was to see his face one last time, to tell him one last time that I loved him. 136

My heart sank, thinking that I’ll never get to. 137

Yoshiki came stomping in a half hour later, holding onto my love that was shirtless and tried to breathe. Without care, the heartless and ruthless king flung him to the ground before me. I gasped in complete terror when I saw him. Lucian’s back was covered with long, bloody whip marks. They were all vertical, some overlapped and they were open with blood seeping out. On his chest were a couple of them. The ones on his chest would heal, I knew. He was in terrible pain and I screamed on the inside. He was suffering because of me. 138

“Lucian!” I half screamed, half cried out to him in a horrified voice. 139

Slowly, he stared up at me, his eyes full of agony and red. “Do not worry about me. I am alright. I am a fighter, remember?” In all his suffering, he found it in himself to smile, for me. I attempted to smile back and I half succeeded. 140

“Both of you have committed a horrible crime! Christine, all of people you should have known better! You were always disobeying me, even before I made you queen!” Yoshiki spoke. 141

I didn’t respond. 142

“I loved you and I still do. But yet you betrayed me. Why would you do such a thing?” He continued. 143

“He was there for me when I lost the baby. He comforted me and you weren’t even there for me.” I explained.144

Yoshiki went over to the nearest table and picked up an implement. My heart thudded. I knew he really wouldn’t torture me. He would only whip or cane me like he always did. My eyes nearly came out of their sockets when he put the cane down and picked up an iron rod. Professionally, he walked over to the fire pit and stuck the tip of the iron rod near the fire until it glowed red and was red hot. Then, he made his way over to me. 145

Lucian screamed out to him, begging for him to not hurt me. But the king ignored him and spread my legs wide open right before he slammed the tip of the iron rod up my vagina. I screamed out in agony. He pulled it out and then slammed it inside of me once more, causing me to scream even more. Then, he pulled it out for good and smacked me across the face with it. It nearly burned an area on my face and I was sure that it did so. 146

Next, Yoshiki put down the iron rod and picked up another implement. It was a whip, a small one. “Stand up!” He barked at Lucian viciously. Lucian stood up. “Now get over here!” Like he demanded Lucian came over to him. 147

“Lucian, do you love Christine Wharton?” He asked him profusely. 148

“Yes, I love her with all my heart.” Confessed Lucian. 149

“Do you love her now after what I did to her? I mean, look at her face. I could never love her after looking at huge hideous bruise and burn mark on her face. It sickens me.” Yoshiki pressed. 150

“I will always love her.” Lucian promised me, his blue eyes intensifying. 151

“Very well then,” He handed the whip to Lucian. “Since you love her so much, then you can be the one to punish her for her actions.” 152

My heart stopped. How could he do this?153

“I will not hurt her.” Lucian protested. 154

“If you don’t whip her, I’ll peel and burn off her flesh piece by piece and then I’ll make you eat it. Seven lashes on the front of her nude body. Now.” Yoshiki commanded, getting in his face. 155

With sorrow and hurtful eyes, Lucian looked at me and looked as though he was about to cry. “I’m sorry, my love for what I’m about to do.” He whispered. 156

The first hit of the whip smacking against my nude body was very painful but I gritted my teeth in an effort to stop myself from yelling out in pain. It hit me directly across the chest. The second hit came, then the third. I shrieked, whimpering in nothing but pain. The last four hits from the whip were agonizing as they came fast and hard. I cried out in pure agonizing, not able to control myself. Once the deed was done, I looked down at myself. I had whip marks on my chest and stomach. I screamed out. 157

Lucian dropped the whip, allowing it to fall to the floor. As he came to comfort me, Yoshiki pushed him aside. “Christine, do you still love Lucian? After what he’s done to you?” Yoshiki asked me. 158

“I love him,” I answered, wincing. In one swift movement, he punched me in the stomach. I cried out in pain. If I could, I would have bent over in pain. He gritted fiercely to me, 159

“How dare you love anyone but me! I’ve given you everything but yet you go slutting around?” He punched me again. I was hysterically crying by now. 160

“Please stop! My baby, you will hurt it terribly! Please stop. I’m pregnant.” I begged to him. 161

“So you are pregnant, huh? That’s all I keep hearing. Tell me, who is the father. It’s Lucian, isn’t it, you bitch.” He demanded. I nodded my head. He removed me from the wall. I dropped to the ground. The instant I fell, Lucian came to my aid. 162

Yoshiki pulled out a knife and plunged it into my shoulder, kicking my love away in the process. He pulled out the knife and stabbed me again in the shoulder, then in my left arm twice. I yelled out. 163

“Let her go.” Boomed Lucian angrily. 164

“Like I’m really going to listen to you.” Laughed Yoshiki as he started in on my neck. 165

Yoshiki laughed deviously as he pressed the blade against the side of my neck. Ever so slowly, he trailed a bloody cut along my neck. Then, he made another cut, and with each cut he pressed the blade hard into my skin. Dark red blood was gushing out as well as pain was being inflicted. Instantly, my hands shot up to my neck in an effort to stop the nearly copious bleeding. In the process, my hands began to shake, from terror, pain, and shock. 166

Tears began to flow down my face. I really didn’t want to die but yet at the same time, I was more afraid to lose my love. I would rather die than have Lucian die because I refused to live without him. So I would let Yoshiki do whatever it is he was he wanted to do to me, only if it meant that Lucian would still be existing in this world. 167

The sharp and horrific blade made another slash on my neck and this time Lucian rose up to his feet after hearing my cries of heartbreak and agony and my struggle to breathe still. He looked so menacing, so scary.168

“I said let her go.” Roared Lucian and hooked Yoshiki with his right fist. Yoshiki was sent flying and landed on the ground. He didn’t get up. Relief and security washed over me but fear was still intact.169

My love came running to my aide and when I took a closer look at him, I came to see that he was in fact crying. He was scared for the both of us, that I was going to die. 170

“My baby! Oh Lucian, is it alright? How is my baby?” I seemed to be hysterical and screaming at the top of my lungs, but Lucian soothed me. 171

“I do not know, sweetheart, but you are not alright. You need medical help right away. You’re bleeding terribly.” He answered me, tears in his eyes. 172

He gently lifted me in his arms as I continued to put pressure on my mutilated neck. His hands traced the horrid and painful whip marks on front of my body. They disgusted him to no end. My hands were now officially drenched in sticky, warm dark red blood and my breathing was shallow. I acted as though every breath I took was my last. 173

Just as Lucian started to pick me up to carry me out of the room, Yoshiki was up and collided with Lucian, sending the two of them slamming against the stone wall in the opposite direction. My heart raced. 174

Lucian was faster than Yoshiki. He punched him angrily and Yoshiki went flying across the room, his face contorted with madness and bloody. Blood oozed out from his nose and mouth. Before Lucian could get him, Yoshiki hit him with his left fist. Lucian’s head snapped back, causing him to stagger and nearly fall to the floor. Lucian was quick and kneed Yoshiki several times. 175

I watched as the two of them continued their fight, my eyes wide and distant. My vision was starting to get blurry so I couldn’t see that well. From what I could tell, Lucian was winning the fight. For that I was very glad. Yoshiki eventually fell to the ground after being punched two more times. 176

Quickly, Lucian ran over to the silver knight statue and grabbed the heavy sword that the statue held (the sword was real and made of only the finest metals). Yoshiki rose once more, this time he has deranged more than ever.177

“You think you can kill me, huh? I am the king! No one has ever been able to kill me, not even your precious little sister Rhona. You remember her, don’t you? I loved her but then I killed her and bathed in her blood. Remember? Oh how her blood felt and tasted so sweet and rich.” He smirked murderously. “And I can’t die. If anyone is to die, it’s you two who committed blasphemy.” 178

Lucian gritted his teeth, as if he was trying to control himself. “The only blasphemous person here is you.” He narrowed his eyes, glaring intensely as he prepared himself with the sword. 179

“You’ve been given loyalty, life, and gratitude so how could you betray me and go off with my loving queen? You ruined my queen, my love!” Yoshiki exclaimed angrily. 180

“I loved her.” Shouted Lucian. His steel and ice blue eyes flickered with anger. The fire light on the wall glared off on him like a reflection, giving off a fiery orange color with red mixed in. He looked so demented and enraged in the firelight, especially with the way he held the sword so strongly like the fighter he truly was. And his long hair was matted but yet perfect. For a minute, I swore that he looked a bit murderous, scary like he was going to snap at any moment. 181

Suddenly, Yoshiki charged towards Lucian, screaming as if in battle. I flinched, excepting the worst. Lucian’s reaction was greater than all and he thrusted the sword right into Yoshiki. Pulling the sword out, Lucian scoffed at the now dead body of Yoshiki. I saw how blood drenched the blade of the sword. 182

But by then, I was growing tired, weak from my injuries. With pleading eyes, I glanced at my victorious lover and tried calling out to him, 183

“Lu….Luc…Lucian….” 184

As he came sped towards me, my eyes closed and I gave in to the darkness without even fighting…185

After what seemed like an eternity of being trapped in darkness, I finally woke up. There was no pain, only the feeling of being rejuvenated. I felt as though I died and had been brought back to life. 186

That feeling is amazing to experience. I felt as though I was reborn again . 187

I scanned around at my surroundings, to determine where I was. I found myself lying on bed, my very large bed to be exact. And I was wearing one of my gowns, a simple one. That was strange. I figured to be in a hospital bed or something. 188

Soon enough, I felt fingers stroking my hair and cheek. Startled, I looked to see who was touching me. It was Lucian. My heart melted and I smiled. 189

“You’re awake at last. I was worried that you wouldn’t make it.” He smiled joyfully. It seemed like he was at my side the whole entire time.190

“How long was I out for?” I inquired.191

“Three days. The doctor said you could be out for more than that.” He explained. 192

“And the baby?” I was hopeful. 193

“Yes, the baby is fine, Christine. We almost lost the baby at first, but everything’s alright now.” He answered. 194

Happiness took over me. My baby-our baby was going to live. I believe that Lucian was happier about the news than I was. His face said it all. I took his hand and held it in mine. He felt so warm. 195

“He’s dead, if you’re wondering. He can never come back and hurt you.” He stated protectively, holding onto me. Scooting closer to him, I snuggled up against his body. I couldn’t believe that it was actually over, that Yoshiki was actually dead. His reign of terror was no more. No more killings, torturing, raping, or fear. No more girls going missing. The town of Ravens didn’t have to live with hushed voices and in fear anymore. Now the town could focus on more important things. 196

“I’m finally free?” I was astonished at that one fact. It was so simple that it almost seemed intricate or impossible. 197

“Yes, you’re free at last.” He nodded his head. I nearly cried, but they weren’t tears of sadness. They were of something else. Lucian and I could finally be together freely and publicly.198

I grabbed Lucian by the shirt gently and he leaned into me seductively. We kissed passionately without worry and then he pulled away, his lips moving to my right ear. His breath was sweet but heavy, causing me to flinch ever so lightly. Lucian whispered slowly in my ear, 199

“Live long and prosper we shall, my sweet young queen.”

 200