Gardenia Lockwood: A GATE Tale

Gardenia Lockwood

  It was a dark day, literally, dark grey clouds masked the sun. Figuratively, everyday was always dark. I don't let that show though. What kind of princess would I be if I did? No one wants an unhappy princess. Though, just like in the fairytales, we all seem to have some sort of problem.

  "Gardenia!!" A deep voice shouted from downstairs. It was my dad, and by his shouting, I knew he wished to see me.

  My dad, Alistaire Lockwood, is the king of Vulpestria, which is the planet I live on. Everyone in our kingdom are Kitsune. The history of here is always a good read.

I lifted my dark purple dress a bit as I made my way down the spiraling stone staircase, being careful not to trip. As I approached a wooden door, two guards moved out of the way.

"Excuse me, but was my father not just calling for me from down here?"

  The guards sort of exchanged a glance before looking at me. The taller one spoke.

"King Alistaire was, but he went ahead on into the lounge. I'm assuming he is still there and waiting for you, princess."

"Very well." I said, flashing a polite smile before leaving the staircase. The two guards closed the doors behind me and I sighed, rolling my eyes. "Lazy bastard can not walk up the stairs himself..."

  I made my way through the castle, smiling at any servant, maid, or guard that walked by. After a short walk, I pushed open the doors that led to the lounge.

  My father stood on the other side of the room, looking out a large window. He turned around, looking at me.

"You were supposed to be out in town  socializing ten minutes ago, Gardenia. I can not have you disregard our schedule.." He said, his eyes slightly narrowed.

I clenched my teeth as I tried to hold in my temper. I can not talk back. I forced a small smile, speaking. "My apologiea, father. Books can be distracting at times."

  My gold eyes drifted over to my teacup that was on a small table mear the couch. I've been meaning to get that. I held out a hand, using my telekinesis to move it. The half full cup and plate lifted off of the table and gently traveled to my hand. As soon as it landed, my father's large hand slapped it to the floor, creating a loud shatter. My eyes met his, and I was angry. Well, so was he.

  The doors bursted open, a servant and a guard appearing. "Sir, is everything alright? We heard a crash!"

  My father spoke, keeping his eyes on me. "Yes...all is well. You are excused."

They left, leaving my father and I alone.

"How many times must I tell you that magical powers are not ladylike! You are a princess, you are a woman! I will not have you practicing the skills of a male!" He yelled, stepping forward.

I didnt back up. I stayed there, locking eyes with him as he yelled.

"I didnt think moving a cup of tea was so harmf-"

I was interrupted by a stinging slap to the face. My pale skin began to burn and I placed my hand over the area that was hit.

"Go speak to the commoners. Set a good example, and don't let me catching you using your powers again!" King Alistaire boomed, storming off.

I remained in that one spot, pressing my hand against my burning, freckled cheek. This was nothing new to me, but rather just something I grow tired of.

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  The kingdom was booming. What could be causing so much excitement though?