Chapter One - Scouring The Garden

Max narrowed her eyes against the sun's glare. The train sped through the rocky terrain of mountain known as Devil's Arch. Resting her chin on the palm of her hand, she leaned forward, enjoying the view of the barren wasteland that had killed so many before the wilderness was tamed.

Not that she was a sadist, but the royal's witless dogs were nothing more than the pawns of their masters. They were slaves without families or friends. Death would be kinder to them than life could ever be.

Years prior, she would have felt sorry for the poor fools, but anyone who gets involved with the monarchy is bound to suffer the consequences. She couldn't do anything about it, nor did she want to. Ergo, she did not give a shit.

Nowadays, people with money and power truly believed they were among the superior breed of humans, when in reality, they were sheltered cattle that, once left to roam about the real world, would be taken out by cunning wolves, far stronger than they.

As they neared Panthea, the landscape became filled with farmland and peasant homes, like the ones she used to live in. As she passed every ranch, she began to ponder on the life she once led. She had a promising future. She had gone to an academy, gotten an education. She was strong, quick-witted, and beautifully shaped.

The capital of Archaea was full of rich men with many wives, constantly looking for younger, prettier women to get their claws on. If her village had not been raided, then she might just have been one of them. A rich young widow, out looking for true love.

Eventually, the train came to a screeching halt at Flickerick Station, halting along with it, her train of thought. Adjusting her tunic, Max strode towards the plaza, reaching the castle gates.

'Halt.' Commanded a guard, a lustful smirk on his face. 'Who are you?'

'The new servant girl.' She deadpanned.

'And you plan on serving us strong men who protect the castle, no?' He cackled.

'If that is my assignment, the pay is worth the sacrifice.' She said flatly, showing no sign of interest.

The smile disappeared from the soldier's face.

'Go in.' He snarled, clearly annoyed.

She flashed him a sarcastic smile as she brushed past. All in a day's work.

Scanning the crowd of servants for the Head Retainer, Max shielded her eyes from the sun. She finally found him, striding over with a pleasant smile plastered on her face.

'Ah, hello there.' The man sneered down at her. She hated him already.

'Allo' She curtsied respectfully, trying not to roll her eyes.

'You must be?' He inquired.

'Max Thorne.' She replied curtly. There was no need for a false name, considering her identity as an assassin was never discovered.

'Well, Miss Thorne,' He paused, licking his lips, 'You will be Lady Rose's new chambermaid. You are to remain at her side until she dismisses you, and assist her with absolutely everything. Is this clear?'

'Yes sir.' She affirmed, dipping her head.

As she strode towards the duchess' room, she bit back a smile, thinking to herself how simple this would be.

And then she saw her.

Every inch of her body stiffened.

She felt the urge - the need - to protect her

She'd never felt this way before. About anyone. She loved her sister, but then she knew Mel didn't need her protection.

But this woman, she was different.

She looked so small and frail and gentle compared to the strong knights standing by her door. She managed a small bow. It dawned on her that she had to kill this gentle beauty, and she flinched internally. Her protective nature was betraying her.

Max's heart caught in her throat when the short woman turned, smiling gently at her.

This would prove harder than she thought.