The huge mahogany door erupted into flames. Fire danced outside the window.   I closed my eyes and tried to bear the intolerable heat and pain. At least I was one of the best dressed queens to be burnt alive. A cold hand covered my hand and gave it a gentle squeeze. I opened my eyes in surprise and stared into …

21st July, XXXX Another year of travelling around the continent. I spent a couple of months with my family in Arerin. While I travel, a certain someone always follows.  “Your majesty, please go back and work!” “Want a drink?” He offered me a cup of juice which this tropical city is famous for.  “Your majesty, this is getting ridiculous. What …

17th August, XXXX After the talk under the star, Sebastian is back to the usual Sebastian.  By usual, I do not mean the following me around part.  He followed me when I was out browsing the market. He followed me into the book shop. He followed me into a boutique. Finally when he wished to follow me when I went …

13th August, XXXX It’s been more than a year since I left Arerin. I have been travelling the world this whole time.  But at the same time, Sebastian seems to be following me around the continent. I confronted him about that, but he said he was just paying visit to his neighboring countries. All very innocent, nothing suspicious. As for …

31st December, XXXX The anticipated Night Market has arrived. When we arrived at the entrance on a carriage, Sally and I put on our masks.  The masks were lighter than the ones we had during the ball. They were made of laces and other light materials.  We flew from one stall to another. Paper birds that sang in their paper …

28th December, XXXX I grilled Sally about her whereabouts when I finally met her at the ball a few hours later. She said she was detained in the ‘queue’ waiting to greet the prince. She was accompanying her diplomat father, but the prince was nowhere to be found. When her father finally gave her permission to leave, she could not …

21st December, XXXX Early this morning, Sally sent me a few pretty masks. I chose one that looked subdued yet elegant.  The mask was made of dark blue velvet. A few gemstones lined the edge. I wore a matching dark blue gown.  “Liana, you look beautiful,” Aunt Briana praised after giving me a glance. “Aunt Briana, you look stunning. I …

20th December, XXXX I arrived in Zehan after a week. My aunt gave me a warm welcome.  Then I began my days of shopping and sightseeing with Sally. True to her words, Sally really knew Zehan well.  “Of course! I have been living here for two years already!” Sally responded with her head held up. This would be a stunning …

10th November, XXXX Pinkish flowers, red flaming leaves, pearly green sea… I want to see this world.  I am lost and confused, I want to find Liana Cain back. I need some time alone seeing the world and when I return, maybe I will become a more mature and stronger self. I realized I am just a sheltered girl all …

5th September, XXXX “Liana, dear! You must be worried sick!” Mother rushed to my side and gave me a huge hug. Mother and my brothers then started to praise Sebastian. How smart he was… what a nice trick he pulled on the traitor… how well he treated the whole family… They were all beaming with pride. As if Sebastian was …