The Hunt for Freedom

Chapter Twenty

    "No more, I just can't." I whimpered.

I had been trying on dress after dress, approving fabrics and style. How many outfits does a princess need after all?

I had seen silks, satins, linens, and lace, what I had not come across was good old denim. My days clad in jeans and a t-shirt appeared to be at an end.

The room was cleared and a delicious smell wafted in....Grandmother in her infinite wisdom had called in a caterer. Scrumptious grilled tuna over a bed of asparagus, a milky cream sauce and a mixture of tropical fruit. I gorged myself on the tuna to the point that none of these dresses would fit. As planned, the food had my energy levels rising and Grandmother suggested a quick run on the beach.

"After that, we have just a few more things to try on." She said and I rolled my eyes. I can see where Mom gets her skills. Grandmother had played me like a fiddle.

After the next clothing selection I was dragged to the salon. My hair actually had tinfoil in it! My skin was oiled, my body massaged, nails done, and my new hair surprisingly looked amazing. It was drawn up into a half up-do with the long tresses highlighted and curled.

Grandmother skirted me up the back staircase, usually used for the servants during a party. As they were designed to keep the wait staff unseen, she knew she could keep my new look a surprise until the designated hour.

It was nearing sunset when we reached my suite. Grandmother left me to nap in the sun promising to be back in an hour with a snack and a surprise.

Grandmother came in with a box that was long and narrow. I thought maybe she had brought me a keyboard, and I was going to learn to play. I noticed, however, that she handled it as if it didn't have much weight. I was glad, because I have not ever been very musically inclined. It was wrapped elegantly in purple paper with delicate white roses. Across the front was a large bow in the shape of the purple roses from the paper. I could actually smell roses as I sat next to it and stared up at Grandmother.

"This day has been better than Christmas and now there's more?" I am amazed at her generosity.

"I have stood by and watched you hide your beauty long enough Katalea. We won't have that anymore."

I slid off the intricate rose bow, intending to keep it forever. The top of the box was wrapped separately from the bottom and it opened easily. Inside, nestled amongst gobs of sparkly tissue paper was a gown that looked designed to match my eyes. This gorgeous creation was made of the softest silk, my fingers delighting on the texture. Grandmother prodded me to stop fondling it and actually try it on. It shimmered over my head and as I turned to look in the mirror. I was beautiful! Whoever said money can't buy looks never saw my transformation. The cobalt color of the gown deepened to almost purple as it rested at my feet. It was exactly the right length to show off the new silver heels that were part of my shopping spree. As the blues of the dress catch the last rays of the sunset, part of me can't help but think of the dragon's iridescent scales from the Utah attack. I didn't mention that to Grandmother as I didn't want to ruin her fun.

The gown had a detachable train, and I had two of the cutest cherubs to hold it as I entered the coronation ball. We practiced walking about the room until we got our timing in sync. As my nerves got the better of me, I longed to throw on a pair of jeans and run for the trees.

The coronation ball was to begin at nine, but by eight I had a team of make-up artists, hair specialists, and well wishers crowding my suite. As my make up was being applied, Grandfather appeared with a long black velvet box and a bouquet of white roses.

The roses were beautiful and smelled heavenly. The box lay there between us, an unspoken gesture of love. I was afraid to open it, I knew it would dazzle the eyes but it seemed to be a symbol of adulthood I wasn't ready for. Grandfather's eyes glistened as he nudged me to take it.

"With this gift, I relinquish my power as Alpha over to you, young Katalea. May you wear it as a symbol of our Prides' strength, loyalty, and love. It is your to give to the next black panther or to put back into the sacred vault if there is not one after your reign.

His words wee heavy on my shoulders but I picked up the box. Insides was a delicate panther pendant made of onyx, surrounded by tiny rubis, the eyes were a dazzling sapphire as blue as mine. It was supported by a tiny silver chain that didn't look strong enough to survive what I would put it through.

Grandfather saw me eyeing the chain and read my thoughts. "It is made of a metal stronger than platinum, that is found only on our island. It can not be broken, once forged with the heat of the gods."

Always thinking of the war to come I asked, "Is it possible to make our weapons of this metal?"

Grandfather chuckled, "that's my girl. I think that would be a great edict for your first order of business. But forest, let go make you a princess."

He helped me into the necklace and we walked arm in arm to the grand staircase. The crowd below looked up in awe. Every knee bent as we descended, even Dalya. Not being the Alpha yet, Grandfather was the one to speak.

"Rise, treasured guests. Thank you all for coming to witness our lovely Katalea as she assumes the throne."

I saw Maggie beaming at me from the left of the room, a tear running down her cheek. I saw Jade smiling holding hands with Aunt Pria, both looking as if they had just won the lottery. Behind them, by herself with her hands fisted, I saw Dalya scowling at me.

I hadn't spoken to Abe since we had arrived here and I searched the crowd for him. He was standing near his father, both clapping enthusiastically as I made my way to the front. He was in a tuxedo, and looked completely amazing. Kaya, my panther, made her presence known. She purred lightly as I felt my claws tingle in anticipation of extracting. Down girl! She rarely has made herself known, but I felt her this night.

Abe hadn't shaved and the scruff on his face paired with his fancy suit made my insides do gymnastics. He had his hair tied back with a black leather strap. He definitely had the sexy vibe handled. He looked at me with a mischievous grin. As lustful hormones roared through my body, I knew it wouldn't take much for him to tempt me to head out in the garden with him afterwards.

It was a very formal ceremony, Mr. Kalb presented me with the ceremonial sticks to the ancient Tahtib. They were carved with hieroglyphics that told the legacy of our Pride. I saw the birth of a black panther, and the doom of a red cloud carved into the ancient sticks.

Mr. Toma presented me with the ancient scrolls that told of our past and predicted our future. The scrolls ended at my birth, our future was ours to write.

Grandfather stood and faced me. He placed the tiara on my head and went down on one knee. The alpha had bowed to another, and in that instant power was transferred. Everyone followed suit and soon all were kneeling to me, even Dalya.

"Please rise, my fellow werecats." I began this time with no coaching, instead I spoke from my heart. I hope I can live up to the hope you have placed in me. I will do my best to serve you and help our people thrive."

Thunderous applause rang out as all regained their feet. "Let us go into the dining hall for the great feast."

Smiles and congratulations came from every direction as we made our way into the hall. The room had been transformed into a heavenly garden with lush plants and tiny sparkling lights. The air was scented with tropical flowers and as I walked the long walkway to the head table a light snowfall began to fall. Inside! The crystals that landed on me reflected the light , giving the illusion that I was glowing.

As we were seated there was a commotion at the back of the hall. Mr. Toma ran to my father's side.

"Sir" he began, then stopped. Dropping his head he turned to me instead.

"Princess, Dakari has been taken!"