Winter DO NOT READ

Chapter Two - Felisia

    Two guards held onto my arms as they led me towards the castle, their grasps unbreakable. It took all my self- control not to snap at them, exposing my true power. I let out a low whistle as I turned my gaze over to the guard from earlier, who held me down during my whipping.

    "I'm Felisia." I said to the guard. He peered over at me with utter irritation, his brows narrowing. I stared right back at him, my eyes scanning over his striking features. I'd be lying if I said this man wasn't handsome.

    The guard had chestnut hair that peeked out from under his ears, slightly curled. His eyes were a mysterious, warm brown, complimenting his naturally tanned skin. That was the first thing I noticed, actually. For all my years, it was a rare sight to see someone with skin that wasn't as white as the snow covering our earth. Why, I wouldn't mind having to glimpse at such a man on a regular basis.

    "And it concerns me?" The man snapped, breaking me from my trance. I locked my eyes with his, smirking.

    He looked over at me with great displeasure, no kindness in his dark eyes. The look in his eyes filled me with triumph and pleasure. As a witch, we enjoyed when anger and fear radiated off others.

    "Why," I began "it's rather rude not to introduce yourself. After all, I announced my name out to all. No need to fear me. You see, I'm in no position to use such news against you."

    The guard began to mumble curses under his breath, causing me to let out a roaring cackle. His eyes began to scrutinize me, as if contemplating whether my words were true. After a moments hesitation, he muttered into my ear. "Keteus."

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    We approached an imposing stone castle, soaring high into the sky. Guards lined the gates, watching me with significant vigilance, as if any moment I would burn them to the ground. And I assure you, it was ever so tempting.

    Holding my head up high, I fixed my stance. I showed no fear nor anger, just conquest. As if I knew something they didn't, as if I were the one who had the advantage. Which frankly, I do.

    Keteus and the other guard guided me through the towering gate, towards where the queen awaited my presence. Every so often, Keteus fixated his gaze on me, quickly removing it before anyone noticed. I would've pointed it out, yet, my life was already standing by just a slender hair.

    "Now," Keteus growled, "do as the queen says, and keep your abhorrent thoughts to yourself. Do you comprehend?"

    "Yes," I began, "but I fear that wont be attainable. You see, there's many thinks I'd love to say to your precious queen."

    "And I presume they aren't good?"

    A smirk formed on my face. "Not in the least."

    Keteus let out a shallow sigh, his brawny hold tightening. My eyes glowed with satisfaction as I took in his utter exasperation. A smug grin still on my face, I took in the surroundings. A crimson red banner flapped in the icy wind, the royal crest conceived in a brilliant gold. The windows were lofty and vast, giving my eyes access to the inside.

    "Does your queen like jewels?" I asked, my gaze trailing back towards Keteus.

    "Pardon?" He asked, wrinkling his nose.

    "Yes," I snapped, "pardon you. I'm wondering if your queen likes jewels. If I'm to save my life, I may as well begin by winning her favour."

    Keteus squinted, looking at me as if I were deranged. "Nothing is going to help you, witch. I can already envision your death, and it's rather painful. Likely, it'd end with your head on a spike."