From Prisoner To Princess [amazon edition]

Chapter 55

Chapter 55

Exiting my carriage with the help of Sky, I wince slightly from the discomfort caused by waking up in Sky's arms this morning. Last night he and I had fully committed to one another and this morning when we woke up he made sure to show me how much he loves me.

"Did I over do it?" Sky asks as I link my arm through his.

"Yes." I pout as he leads me towards the stage where I will sit during the execution. I can already hear the crowd demanding blood shed for all the heinous acts Juden and his men have committed and I will gladly give it to them. My grandparents, Kolten and Arian are already seated on stage, each one wearing a black suit. Taylor and her own unit are spread out in the crowd, listening in for information in case any of Juden's men are mixed in waiting to free their leader.

Sky helps me climb the stairs to the stage, escorting me to the microphone that sits to the corner of the stage. Below me is another platform, one that houses eleven kneeling men and women. Only one has his head covered with a black burlap sack. These are the Nobles that sided with Juden and the man himself. Moving my gaze from them, I look into the crowd and see Demitrias and his family standing there, no longer finely dressed. My eyes meet my ex-fiancé's and he glares at me. I ignore him as Sky presses a kiss to my forehead before he backs away, taking the seat next to mine. One day he and I will rule this Kingdom together.

"Good morning people of Nimairene." I call into the mic, the crowds cheering quieting down.

"I am sorry that we all have to meet under these unfortunate circumstances but todays event will be a warning to any and all traitors under Juden Trilavantas' influence." I continue, turning my gaze towards the camera. I had been reassure that today's execution will be broadcasted for the Kingdom to see and I am grateful for it. No one will be able to say that I did something underhanded at today's execution.

"The men and women before us will each say their final words one at a time before their execution. It will be quick for them as we are not monsters like they are. Executioner, you may begin." With that I make my way to my seat, Sky taking my hand in his and giving it a light squeeze. One by one the Executioner brought a prisoner forward, giving them their chance to speak. Some begged for their lives, admitting their guilt and wishing for a second chance but I know better. If you give a traitor any chance, they will turn around and stab you without hesitation. Only three admitted they would do everything all over again if it meant gaining power and wealth all over again. Their words are the ones cut short as a bullet to their heart takes their lives. I wince with each gun shot, my hand clenching Sky's as I think about whether or not this is the right choice. Then I think back to how I was kidnapped in my own Palace and conclude that executing those who are irredeemable is the right choice.

Finally it is Juden's turn and the Executioner forces him to his feet. I watch their movement, something inside me saying this is wrong. Sky had informed me yesterday after making love to me that Max suggested using a bag to cover Juden's face and he had agreed to it.

"Juden Trilavantas. For the crimes of treason and murdering King Alex Nimair and Queen Evelyne Nimair, you are sentenced to death. As your confession has been said, we will consider them your last words." The Executioner raises his gun, the barrel pressed to the kneeling man's chest. The safety is released but the sinking feeling inside me won't leave.

"Stop!" I shout before the gun can be fired. Standing to my feet I make my way down the stage and onto the platform, not caring about the blood that covers the temporary stage.

"Remove his hood." I order.

"Yeah!"

"Remove his hood!"