The Game of Monarchies "Sanguis Rosa"

Chapter III

The kingdom started to quiet down as the night approached. The lights were starting to dim down, silence overtook the city. Everyone was sleeping, except Zea, who was in the garden staring at the stars. Keeping her company was a lantern and a random cat. The cat's fur – almost as dark as the night sky. The most beautiful green emerald eyes stared at her, before closing and falling asleep.

Zea couldn't help but think, if all the flowers could talk, what would they say? Their life is short lived, yet without roses, tulips or orchids we cannot imagine beauty. Zea knew from the old tales that Gods take beauty and grace first. Maybe that's why all flowers do not exist for long, but are merely a reminder – all good things come to an end.

This night would be one without sleep or rest. Not long after the argument with the King, both siblings received some interesting news. The family is going to Collis. An important ball is going to happen. All royal families must attend. But that is not the part which was concerning her or taking sleep away. The disturbing plan didn't let her sleep; the night of the ball, the royal family from Collis will be assassinated. Their legacy ending, erasing them from the game of monarchies.

Zea felt hopeless and small. Is killing really the answer? For centuries everyone had lived in peace, harmony ruling over the land. But as of now it seemed like all values were being ignored for greed, for want of power. Everyone knew Aggeris' rulers as honest and truthful people. Yet her Father was blinded by the hands of greed. It seemed like the name Icarus now perfectly suited Father. Soon enough, he will fly too close to the sun. But instead of falling by himself, he'll take everyone with him. The thought of her home crumbling down kept Zea awake until morning.

Birds started to chirp, the cat on Zea's lap started to shift around. Soon it hopped off and ran away. She stood up and proceeded to go to a small pond. Zea took some cold water in her palms and splashed it on her face hoping this would wake her up. Or at least make the princess feel better. Today she is going to leave for Collis. Apparently, the King saw this as the perfect opportunity to teach his kids the importance of making connections and gathering information.

Before leaving the garden, Zea picked a rose. And with the small fire that was left from the candle in the lantern she set fire to the flower, watching it slowly burn and turn to dust. Maybe this was a warning from within. If Zea doesn't do as the monarchy games require, the kingdom of Aggeris will become ashes and her name – forgotten and lost to time... But the consequence of killing someone will leave a mark. Just like the ashes leave soot on her fingers...