A Rose for the Crown

Chapter 25

Vaati's POV

So far, I must say I was quite amused watching the pitiful humans crawl their way up to my palace. Especially that one man, Star was it? To sacrifice himself to save the princess. I admire his courage and stupid recklessness. He doesn't realize that bravery will get him nowhere in my palace.

I sat comfortably on my throne, looking upon the crystal ball that allowed me to track the group's journey towards my home.

"I am waiting for you, my sweet."

"You will not touch a single hair on her body!"

"Is that so?" I said taking a glance at my new prisoner, "You should be careful with what you say. After all, you are the one in chains, Tenebris."

He growled and struggled even harder against the restraints keeping him captive. I smirked dismissing the glowing orb. The closer I got to him the more he growled. Just like an untamed beast. I yanked on his silver locks forcing him to meet my gaze.

"You seemed to have forgotten whom you belonged to, Number 7."

His eyes widened. His leg kicked out in fury forcing me to move away. He dropped to the ground, whimpering upon contact with the cold, unforgiving surface.

"Oh, do you not like the name? After everything, I've done for you, this is how you repay me for my efforts ?"

"I will never accept that name, never again will I turn to your side! You'll have to kill me first."

I smiled a glint of evil in my eye.

"Well then, let's hope your friends get here in time before your wish is fulfilled. Guards, take him to the tower. I'm sure he'll have fun in his room."

He screamed as they dragged him to the darkness below. He was willing to return but needed a little push, dare I say. I chuckled in delight and excitement.

"Please do hurry dear heroes, the fun has only just begun."

Rose's POV

I felt a shiver go down my spine when the palace was within sight. The surge of anxiety that had suddenly build up inside my core made me stumble.

"Are you alright, Rose?" asked Ocean who was walking at my side.

I shook my head, "No, something is going on in there. I don't know why but I have a terribly bad feeling about that place."

He comfortingly patted my back, "Everything will be okay. You have us to protect you."

I nodded dismaying the unsettling feeling. Maybe I was just nervous. That's probably it, right?

"Rose, how are going to get up there?"

"I can bring us all toon boy."

"How? And I thought we had made it clear to stop with the names?"

"I can fly and you made it clear I just don't listen. Now be quiet and hold hands."

They all linked together like a tight chain.

"Ventu, tune mean illa sibilabit."* (picture above).

Like the waves in a storm, I merged with the breath of nature. I was calm as a breeze but my eyes trashed like Zephyrus winds. They all looked at me in awe.

"Keep em closed boys, we're going up," I said hooking my hand to theirs.

Without a moments notice, I shot up.

"AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!"

I giggled and went even faster. Oh, how I could torture them right now. As my foot touched the solid ground at the entrance, my extravagant dress was back to my mundane attire. Here, another three doors awaited us.