The Castle

We sprint toward the castle as fast as possible. I can here the footsteps of our pursuers. They're fast, it hasn't even been two minutes and I'm already tired, and pain from the lashings is getting unbearable. Every step I take makes my wounds hurt more. I don't think I'll be able to run the whole way.

"Luke, I can't run anymore. Let's stop in the next alley we see." I urge.

He nods, and we turn into the next alley.

"I'm sorry I couldn't keep going."

"It's okay. Just catch your breath and we'll go again" he states,

"I don't think those were the guards." I huff,

"Yeah I think you're right."

"Okay, I'm ready to go again" I tell him,

"Alright, Ready…Go!"

This time when we run towards the castle we make it the whole way there.

"This way to the entrance to the butler quarters" Luke tells me, and I follow. The area is empty when we get inside. We head down the hallway and into a room.

"Now we're safe." I say with a smile

"So, this is where you live? This room is super nice." I ask,

"Yeah... This is where I live."

"Oh yeah, since you live in the castle you must have heard the rumors about the wondering ghost, right?"

"No, not really, sorry." He replies,

"That's ok. It's getting late so I should probably head out so you can get some sleep." I say,

"Oh yeah! I was going to ask you where you live so I can deliver the money you earned today when I hired you."

"Actually, this is my first day in the city. I was just going to sleep outside since I have no money to buy lodging." I explain,

"Sleep outside? But it's freezing out there. Just stay here for the night. You can use one of the vacant rooms." He urges

"Would that really be ok?" I ask

"Of course. You could even stay in here if you don't feel comfortable taking another room." Luke asks,

"It's ok. I'll be fine with another room. Is the one next door available?" I ask

"Yes, that room is available."

"Alright, then I guess I'll see you tomorrow." I say,

"Ok, see you tomorrow."

I go next door and take off the cloak. I inspect my back in a small mirror on the wall. Big gash marks cover my back, and my dress is ripped and frayed. I try to pull the cut of the dress closed, but it seems that when the Warden ripped it, she tore some of the dress off. I won't be able to fix it so I head to the bed. I use the blanket I got from Anthony to snuggle up, and drift away into sleep.

———————-

"Emily! Time to wake up! Can I come in?" Luke asks

"…"

"I'm coming in Emily."

"Wha-"I mumble still half asleep,

As I begin to open my eyes, I see Luke opening the door. Ugh. He probably thinks I'm still asleep. When he starts to open the door, I see the cloak hanging on a hook on the wall. Oh no... my cloak isn't on! I quickly put my head under the covers so he can't see me.

"What are you doing Emily? You know It's morning time, don't you?" Luke asks

"Give me my cloak." I grumble

"Oh yeah, your cloak… I want to see what you look like though" He whines

"Just get it." I demand,

"Do you wear a cloak because your ugly? Don't worry I won't judge." He teases,

"I am not ugly! Just give me my cloak...please."

"Alright, alright, no need to get so angry, but how are you going to put it on under the covers?" He asks as he gets the cloak off the coat hanger,

"I'll figure it out." I grumble,

"Ok, here you go-"

"Slam!" The door crashes open and guards come rushing in.