i cant think of a title for it

it is about a young girl that is brought out form dungeon to help find a bad guy

"why you think knights are seeking for someone, we should go Ask if they need our help"

I said pointing over to a group of people,they huddled together like they were forming a plan, I knew they wouldn't peasants, they had chain armor and breast plates with the symbol 

of their kings coat of arms.

"SASHA,our mission is to capture DONALD"

my partner replied in a firm voice,a deep frown changed his once happy small smile.

I stared at him into his deep sky blue eyes,it was like he seen right threw me and was displeased, that I would try to break a order so soon.

Rolling my eyes I left him and marched over to the group of people,that was only a few feet away from me,

standing on the path they blocked the trail,so even if I didn't want to help I still had to break threw.

When I first met them they were all staring at my face,and I knew why,it was that deep scar on my cheek,I would try to cover it up with my long hair but most times 

it never worked,

They were all carrying swords and bows,one man even held a weapon I never seen before,

it was long like a bow,it had a metal barrow like a cannon,what was this weird bat.

My eyes was fixed on the man that was carrying it.

"what is that"I gasped pointing at the weapon,the tall man proudly held it tight 

and replied.

"ya never saw a barrow weapon before have ya sweetcheek"

I shook my head,and just stared at the thing,but too scared to touch it,I kept my curious hands to my self.

"some call it a gun,some call it a body cannon,but I call it what it is,a barrow weapon"

he replied.

Then another man stepped out from the crowd between me and him,this man was smaller,

his beard covered his face and his clothes and armor looked like the best a man could get.

"what do you want?"he asked with a voice the would scare most people from talking.

But I kept my ground and never back away,not one step.

I shook my head trying to remember why I came up to this group of men,

the new toy took all my attention,I forgot what I was doing.

"my name is SASHA,that back there is MIKE,we over heard you as we were passing,that you were seeking for someone,and we would like to help"

I kept my voice calm like I didn't seem excited.

It been a really long travel trying to come here to SPARK STONE,so even if I was helping my natural enemies,it was still better then having to listen to MIKE 

talk about law,and how the system is too lazy.

"my name is JACK,the officer of this unit,thank you for your kindness but we don't need any support from a interloper"the bearded man replied,he turned away and the rest began to follow,

but one gentleman stayed and tapped on his shoulder to get his attention.

"hey this is my daughter were talking about,the more eyes and ears we have the better"

the man seem worried,I could feel it in his soft voice that can only come from a frighten man.

JACK stopped in his tracks and turned around,he looked at the man in the eyes.

"HARRY,were a unit from SPARK STONE CITY.

Knights and brothers, I can not allow a interloper to join, and I can't allow a woman to ruin our team,but if she wish to support us,she may do on her own terms.

Now brotherly knights,these men are dangerous,stay alert they may attack,but do not harm the girl we must bring her back safely,the kidnappers can't be far"

JACK said marching deep into the forest, drawing their weapons they were going to be ready for any fight.

I stood there with a firm frown,and a clinched fist.

The nerve of that man, I thought to my self.

"well you follow them but not to close,I well go up ahead"

I said cracking my fingers,like I was warming up to play some kick ball.

"SASHA,our mission is to search for DONALD,at SPARK STONE CITY,ya know the city 

where he fled away too, i can not allow ya to waste time,

we have but one mission"

MIKE said crossing his arms.he lifted his chin and tried to look down on me,

which was easy for him,I was shorter anyway.

I stood frozen not believing what I just herd,shacking my head 

with a broken frown I backed away from him.

"if searching for that that that...swine,is More important then a young girls life,

then I should just quit this mission"

I watched what he MIKE mighty say but he replied only with a sigh.I

Ran into the woods.

Swimming like a shark threw the scratchy branches,

I was glad I had my black cloak wrapped around me or it would really hurt,

going deeper into the trees the forest seemed to open up,

enough that I could stand up without a tree touching me,

I could hear the men marching threw the woods,their armor was noisy,

it gave there location away,they had no surprise of attack,

who ever they were after would know they were coming.

Standing in place I just looked around for any broken branches that would give me a tip,

to where these kidnappers must have ran threw.

I knew I had the surprise of attack,the kidnappers had no idea a woman like me

Was coming.

Making my way deeper in I could tell the ground was getting damp.

Water squeezed out with each step,like I was walking on snow in summer.

Getting close to a swamp,the kidnappers wouldn't be this way,it would be pointless to 

continue that path.

I could still hear the knights clanging,it was like a song of metal.

I seen some fallen leafs that was crushed,it must have been by a man,a animal would know 

not to make noise when hunting,

it was my first tip,so I made a run for it,like a deer I kept my head low so my eyes wouldn't get poked 

out by a lazy branch,forcing my way threw I spotted some moss on the ground,

it was torn up,it looked like boots ripped it apart,

it had to be the kidnappers,I followed deeper in but I slowed down,

I didn't want them to know I was around.

Finally breaking threw I was in some kind of clearing,a old farm land,it was a ocean of deep grass,deep enough I could hide in it,it tickled my chin as I walked threw,

then to my surprise a old wooden house,with the roof rotted away was standing 

in the middle of this forgotten land.

That's where they would hide,what a better spot,with four walls and a open view 

it would give anyone a good camp,I kept low and crawled threw the grass,I wouldn't sure 

if there was someone in the house or not but I didn't want to risk getting caught.

Finally reaching the north side I put my back to the house,I could hear whispers

Of men inside.

This must he the kidnappers,I tried to stay calm.taking deep breaths is hard 

when you got to stay quiet.

OK,OK,OK,come SASHA just do it on,1,2,3.

I finally found the courage to peek in the broken window,holding my breath I knew if I was spotted it would be game over,like a game of chess I had to make the right move at the perfect time,so I waited for the sounds of foot prints to fade away,

I knew then they would be looking out a different window,trying to scan for the knights.

So I peeked up slowly and got my eyes to the window,and inside I could see

Two ugly men,and a sweet little lass with her hands tied with rope,

there was no mistake this was the kidnappers the knights was searching for.

But could I take on these men or should I run back and find the rest.

The answer came to me when I herd a man inside say the words.

"lets just kill her,we got the gold"

then I heard the other say.

"we need her alive"

I knew time was not on my side,I had to do something but if I jumped in they would threaten to kill her,not a risk I wanted to make,

so I thought of a clever idea.

I tapped on the wall to get at least one to come out.

It worked,they whispered to each other.

"what was that"

I crawled away and hoped one would come to inspect the sound

But with luck both idiots came out holding their swords like children.

Just around the corner I was only inches away from them spotting me,

my chest was tight like someone was sitting on it.

This was my chance either now or never at all,I jumped in threw the back window, it was only a small thud but to me

it sounded like a crash, in a panic I knew the two men would be rushing in,

I only had but a few seconds,and in my panic I almost ran back out without helping the child.

The lass was shocked when I stood face to face to her.

Her beautiful dress and blonde hair,blue eyes,made her look like she was a little princess,

I must have looked like a rat to her,stained in mud and tree branches in my hair.

I could tell she wanted to cry,her shacking hands and water filled eyes 

screamed for a hug.

But there was no time for a happy ending,

with a quick cut from my sword,her hands was now free.

I was so desperate in getting her out iam not sure I remember what happened after that,

but I think I picked her up and threw her out the window like garbage.

When she fell to the grass and hit arms first, nearly making her flip over, I wanted to laugh but I screamed.

"RUN"

The lass never looked back but ran like lighting and screamed like, a little girl...huh.

Anyway after that before I knew it, the two men was standing only feet from me,

I knew I could not fight in the small room, I would be trapped and helpless if I stayed in there.

With frozen eyes, I knew they wouldn't going to take any prisoners,

my eyes caught a old clay cup that was sitting on the broken table, I snatched it and through it at them with all my might, they ducked,

it gave me enough time to run and fall out the window, slamming to the ground and getting dirt in my eyes, I stagger to my feet and chased after the lass, i could see the trail she made in the sea of grass.

The two men ran back and out the door, they screamed like wild pigs, waving their swords I knew I had to slow them down, they ran after the lass like a pack of wild wolfs,

getting closer to I cut them off, I was the only thing stopping them,

and trust me, a woman in a bad mood holding a sharp weapon is a scary thing to see,

what am I saying,a woman in a bad mood is a scary thing to see,if she got a weapon 

then I say all bets are off.

I knew the two men were scared of me at the start.

They stepped away from me as I stepped closer,our swords 

clanged as they slammed into each other,

I tried to just to slow them down so the lass could escape, for i did not want more blood on my sword, but the two idiots was pushing my patience.

the older one swung first as the other tried to get to my back,

i spin around and put me and the older gentleman into a lock, where 

both our swords were a treat to each other, his to my chest as i had mine to his throat,

now tangled up if either of us slipped it would mean death for the both of us,

a foolish act most would think, as i put myself in such a situation.

but there is wisdom in my insanity.

now the younger would have to choose between to save his own partner or chase the lass by himself, either way i would win, for if he tried to save his partner he would cause a struggle where i could easily kill him, and if the younger one continued to chase the lass then i would stab the older with my dagger and hunt the other down like a cat after a rat.

the younger took a swing towards me! i twist out of the twisted lock and control the older mans sword with my blade.

slicing threw the mans mans chest he falls like a pile of rocks.

the younger now backed away from me as i stand alone as the other man cries from the stinging wound.

like a child that fell from a tree house, he urgently clung to his chest, trying to stop the gushing blood that dripped out from the wound like rain on a window.

licking the cut like a dog, screaming in a numbing pain that forced tears even from a mighty man.

the younger man now stared me down like a eagle ready to jump his prey, i stood there watching him, waiting for him to make a silly attack.

he jumped to me like a child would in a game, his attack was slower then a snail,

it could have been seen a mile away by even the most unskilled swordsmen.

his unguided feet was his weakness.

i stepped out of reach of his blade, just like a boxer would to counter attack a hit.

before he could act i cut threw his fingers as he still held his sword.

the cut was fast enough that he stood frozen before the fingers fell from the hand to the ground.

screaming like he lost a brother he raised his hands to his face, in disbelieve that only parts of his hand was still holding together, the fingers look more like lifeless snails.

the blood spayed out from his hand like a mist.

tucking his hand in under his cloak, screaming in a cry only a frighting lass would make he runs away without looking behind.

It was over, the lass got away and the men could not hurt her, I wipe the blood stain off my sword and put it away. i take a deep breath watching the young man as he disappears

out of my sight, i then turn to the older gentleman.

"please don't hurt me" it was pathetic to see a grown man who kidnapped a girl now

Crawling away for his life.

"shut up and stop moving, if I wanted to kill you I would have you idiot"

I said making a slash with my fingers across the upper part of my neck,

he clung to his chest groaning in pain and fear.

I rip out of my pockets a rag and a small bottle of honey,

I sit down in front of him as he gasped in confusion,

 reaching out my hand to help but he just went tense.

But the man had no choice but to helplessly surrender.

"now listen, if you don't let me help you I will kill you"

I said, and that was the worst thing I could say to this idiot of a kidnapper,

he gasped and tried to craw away, but he was to hurt to move.

He was like a dog with only two good paws, trying to run away from a bear.

Screaming, he stopped moving and just sat there clinging to his chest, his lungs desperately tried to get air into his aching muscles.

I grabbed onto his hand to remove it from the wound, at first he tried to stop me but

He soon he knew I was now trying to help.

Blood oozed out and stained his old dirty shirt, I quickly clean the cut, it didn't seem deep, he would live for another day.

I put the honey over it to keep out any infections, and then tie the clean cloth around it, he bit his lip as I roughly tied the cloth around him.

He wouldn't sure if he wanted to curse me or thank me, because his eyes was filled with water, and his face was firm like he was angry.

Standing back up I take a deep breath and then marched threw the grass, I followed the path the lass made, as she ran for her life.

I made it to the tree line and I could hear cheers of joy.

She must have found the knights I thought to my self.

I staggered deeper in,I spotted them,they were far away,I could barely tell 

what I was looking at,because of all the think trees, but I knew it was them.

She hugged what must have been her father,he picked her up and the knights turned around and guided the lass safely back to SPARK STONE.

I gasped and ached as I stumbled threw the trees,but it was all worth every bit of it.

MIKE walked towards me,he was just out of sight of the knights too,he had a grin only he would make,

coming up to me and taking my arm,he threw it over his shoulder and helped take some of my weight.

We walked like a three leg man out of the forest.

Then reaching the trail back to where we started,I fell to my knees,clinging to my arm

I knew something was wrong,it ached like a knife was stabbing it,

but I knew no one got me,and I couldn't see blood.

My eyes went weird,it scared me,but it was a strange fear,like a fear of 

a scary dream,something happened but you don't know what.

I looked at MIKE and tried to speak but nothing came out,I just sat there like I was dizzy.

He had a puzzled face.his eyes was wide and he slumped down to my height trying to get me to stand with a shacking hand.

He said something but I don't know what,it was a blur and then before I knew it I blacked out and fell asleep.

CHAPTER 2 

one of my little secrets

my eyes slowly open,i struggled to keep awake as i just wanted to sleep.

a groan burst out of my lips,as i rolled over.

"where,and what happened" 

i rolled over to far and fell out of bed,i rip the sheets off the bed,it was like a avalanche of soft snow.

throwing off the pie of sheets i stand up rubbing my eyes,trying to figure out where i was,i pull back my fizzy hair from my blood shot sleep filled eyes.

in this small room there was shadows everywhere, the sun was just coming up,

the sun just started to cast light threw the window.

before i could learn anything more the door opened without a knock.

a man stepped in my room,his hands carrying a tray poked threw Before i could see his face.

he whispered softly.

"SASHA,ya awake" 

i got such a scare that i jumped for the first thing my hands felt and clung to it with my life, something as a weapon.

my body went tense, i could't feel my chest,my body was like ice,i could't feel anything

i even stopped breathing.

i didn't know at the time what i was doing, but because i was in shock 

i knew i grabbed something but would't sure what.

what kind of person walks into a ladies room without knocking,

the same that kidnaps her and brings her to a strage room in a strage place.

"now tell me what happened and if i find out you touched me when i was sleeping,

i will beat you too death,with this,this,this...pillow"

i replied in a tone only someone in shock could sound like.

staring at the pillow i turn red as a cherry,holding it behind my back

i felt like a idiot as i stared back at MIKE,i wanted to rip his smile off his face.

But i was glad to see his rosy cheeks and blue eyes,and it must be early in the morning because he never even combed his shoulder length brown hair.

but he was dressed in his common green shirt and dark paints,wearing that expensive 

coat and hat,makes him seem like a well tailored man.

"SASHA,ya finally arose from ya rest,a knight in learning must never be lazy"

he said that in a very grumpy upset kinda way,but i didn't care at the moment,

it was to early for me.

with a loud yawn i sit back on my bed,chucking the pillow at him i laugh inside as he almost tripped,i lay back in bed

making sure to cover myself up,i just wanted him out so i could sleep.

"were you born stupid,why didn't you knock,and how did i get here,and is that lass ok"

i said in one long breath.

He sat down on a chair next to the bed and put the tray of porridge over to me,

it was breakfast in bed,in a nice room,not to bad but,i did have to eat porridge that he made.

"SASHA,ya fell unconscious,i had to carry ya to SPARK STONE city,

once we arrived,guards attended and helped.

were occupying this house until further notice,

and yes,the lass is fine now"

he crossed his arms and sighed looking at me.

I stare back.our eyes lock.

"so we finally got here,we made it to SPARK STONE...sweet,cant wait to explore the city,

maybe they got those strawberry pies like back home,but first iam going to sleep,so leave"

i said as i waved my hand for him to leave.

"SASHA,have ya any past family illness of such to force sleep"

he said rubbing his chin,looking at threw the window with his back to me.

"this happened to me before,long ago,i dont think it is anything to worry about,

i dont think it is a sickness,i just needed to sleep,we did walk for a long time"

i replied shrugging my shoulders.

"SASHA,ya need to find DONALD,but first ya need to sign in to the guards of SPARK STONE.

remember ya mission,ya are under my watch,so a little respect would only help ya"

he said but i just roll my eyes.

he sighed and looked back at me, with his hand sitting under his chin he just stared and got up from the chair.

"SASHA,ya should rest"

then he left the room and shut the door.

i made sure he shut the door before rolling over to cover up.

i planned on seeing dream world,so i snuggle into the soft bed.

it was like a large feather.

i was happy he was gone,but more happy i didn't have to eat that porridge,trust me if MIKE cooked it,you dont want to taste it.

my eyes slowly shut as i drift into dream world.

but i still could hear something,it sounded like the front door was opening,

i could hear people talking.

it must be a neighbor asking to borrow eggs or something,i thought as

i kept my head deep into the sheets.i was in a cave of a dark

soft warm palace,and i had it all to myself i didnt want anything to 

with people for a while,so i didnt care what was going on.

my eyes start to close as i let out a deep breath telling myself to rest.

i could feel my body drifting away to a soft...KNOCK,knock,knock a pounding echo on my door.

your kidding me,he just learns to knock now.

I thought to my self.

Then before i knew it,the door was slowly squeaking open.

this time he wouldt going to get away with coming in,as i was trying to sleep.

i throw off the sheets and jump off the bed,

grabbing the porridge i wait for just the right moment for that idiot to step in,

and as soon as i knew the porridge was able to fit threw the door,i throw it with all my

strength,as it flew threw the air,it was like a arrow shooting at prey for the kill.

"YOUR A PEEKING TOM,WAIT UNTIL I SAY YOUR ALLOWED TO OPEN THE DOOR"

i screamed,i could feel my chest fill with power as my lungs took the air

to power that yell.

The bowl hits it target and splatters all over the nice shiny chain armor?

wait...ummm yeah,that was not MIKE.

JACK from the other day, the one who had the beard, was now standing in the door,with dripping porridge spotting his 

armor.he looked like he was mad.

his face was a cold dark stare,his eyes locked unto me like a eagle,

his lips were firm.

i was in shock.

My eyes open wide,and my heart shot up to my throat,

i could feel the butterflies trying to tickle me.

"sorry,i didn't think that was you"

i quickly say,not able to look at him i look at my feet.

Wait my FEET.i had boots on before i fell asleep back on the trail.

MIKE your going to have to explain alot of things, i thought to myself.

i was shocked by everything that happened so far,

first i wake up in a strange place,then i throw food at a man,then i find out MIKE may have taken my boots off while i was sleeping,could things get stranger.

"ma'am your under arrest" he said in a calm tone.

"WHAT" i gasped.

"do not resist your arrest,it would only cause you harm" 

pulling out rope to tie my hands i knew he really was going to arrest me.

MIKE came in the room,finally someone with some sense could tell me 

what was going on,and tell me why i was under arrest.

"SASHA,they simply taking ya to the office,just do as what they demand"

I roll my eyes and turn around,JACK grabs my hands and quickly 

tie them tight,it was fast like two seconds,and nearly impossible to slip out of,

this was not his first time arresting someone.

MIKE stepped out of the way and we both made our way out the bedroom,

it was my fist time seeing the house, sense i was brought here while i was sleeping so i never got to see it.

It was a nice little house, no paint but all stained wood, the walls look like they were just built,the floors never squeaked and even the windows were clean,

it was the kind of house you think a young family was living in.

Then out side there was a horse pulled wagon, it was painted red and yellow,

the colors the flags around here seemed to have the very kind that JACK and his men have on their armor, so it had to be the kings coat of arms.

the wagon had two guards in it,JACK guided me in,and sat next to me,

and as soon i sat down we jumped to a start,the horse started to pull us,

it was fast,like we were late for a party.

It was like a race against time,the wooden wheels bumped over the stone built roads,

it was like riding in a ship in a storm.

this city was amazing,it was so big,i never saw so many people before,

the sidewalks was packed with men,women and little children

houses and buildings form a wall on both sides of the road,it was like a maze made out of

wood and stone,there was so many different paths we could take,if i had to cone here

by myself i would be lost in seconds.

The driver drove like a crazy person,he shouted to 

warn anyone around to get off the road before we could squash them.

my hair was messy from not combing it yet,but now after the wind from the ride rip it 

around,it was now like a red fizzy animal.

and then we came to a quick halt as the driver ripped back on the reins to stop the horse.

i nearly fell face first,but JACK caught me.

parked out in front of a tall building JACK takes me my the arms and guides me out of the wagon and to the door of the building.

outside it looked like a tower,windows were everywhere,i think there was more glass then walls,

it too had a red and yellow flag hanging from its peek.

"this must be the office MIKE told me about"

i whispered,but it was loud enough JACK herd it.

"ma'am,you are wanted by the commander"he quickly said without looking at me,

he opened the door and pushed me in,he led the way threw the large hallway.

It had lots of chairs,and lots of people sitting in them,they seemed like they were waiting their turn for something,

there was a large table desk and a young man writing,i guess we had to wait for our turn,but i was wrong,we passed threw and never stopped for a second,

it was strange walking threw there,

it was like everyone was staring at me,i soon found my self down a narrow hallway with lots of doors,taking the third right,we enter in,

the solid steel door opened to a small room,it only had tables and chairs and one window,

with bars on it so close together that even water would find it hard to fit threw.

A man with grey hair and wrinkles was sitting at a table.

he was wearing a green shirt with medals hanging from his chest,his hat was decorated 

with a lovely elegant design,he looked like some kind of work of art.

"private,why have you this lady arrested...untie her instantly"

he said in a scratchy voice,he struggled to sound scary.

his hands were folded as he kept a low head.

like he was really tired.

"yes sir" JACK said as he untied my hands,he stepped back and stood at the wall.

The old man didn't say a word but just watched the chair in front of me,like he was expecting it to move,he gave a sign with his eyes,so with the hint i sat down,leaning the chair back on two legs i tried to balance it as i waited for him to say something...anything the silence was freaking me out.

"miss,the chair has...four legs" he muttered,i drop the chair down and sit like a lady,

well more like a child that was in time out is a better way to describe how i looked.

He had a tower of papers,next to him,he picked one and was about to say something but then the door burst open,we all quickly look,and there was MIKE just in time to get me out of this mess.

"good morning detective MIKE please come in"

MIKE stood there gasping for breath, like he was being chased by a bear.

of course i never knew he was a detective, that was somthing he never told me as we travled to SPARK STONE CITY.

i could't help but make a small smile knowing he ran all that way.

i had to cover my mouth so no one could see it.

He then saluted and took a seat across from me.

"miss,SASHA please to meet you, my name is commander CARSON,sorry for the way my men treated you,i asked them to bring you in. we are happy to have you join the SSp.

SPARK STONE PROTECTION.

i hear you are under MIKE'S authority,we will begin the paper work to transfer you under my authority"

he said with a broken smile.

his lips didn't touch.

"wait under your authority? that was not the plan, MIKE is my master for now, i was sent here from MIDDLE POINT, that is the town i

was kept in, i was in the dungeon there, i was thrown in to rot until MIKE came and took me out, you see i got a mission and

people there told me and gave paper work to prove 

if i can catch this man DONALD alive then i will be free, no one said anything about joining knights, or switching masters"

i said shacking my head, for i did not agree with what was going on.

"miss SASHA, the king of spark stone learned of your arrest, so searching for a skilled fighter you was top pick, to capture DONALD alive correct"

he grumbled as he was just repeating what i said.

"so explain why this paper here was written if you have power to control me or MIKE"

i asked, waving for MIKE to hand out papers he then took them out of his pocket, they were all crumpled.

"MIKE may i see those?" CARSON asked.

he reached out for them, after taking them he scanned them all over.

"miss SASHA this only states that when you reach SPARKSTONE that you are not in our system as a thief

 but a SSp member going threw training,

a guard in other words, this paper as nothing to do with this mission or the fact

 i am still in charge of things around here"

he said laying them down on the desk.

"wait, so those papers really just say that i am a guard? i thought i was in some kind of training"

i asked keeping my face firm.

he sighed, then took a deep breath.

"miss SASHA, listen to what i have to say, you are now a guard under MIKES authority, these papers that you must sign

to become a knight will then transfer MIKES onwership to the SSp, you must understand you are now just a paid slave.

for you once was a thief and then put into a dungeon, then the detective MIKE here learned of your arrest,

and then informed the SSp, which then paid for your leave.

do you now understand?"

he asked.

listening to all that made my ears bleed, but i knew i had no choice but to agree to what he said,

i nod my head to CARSON while keeping a eye on JACK, something about that man seemed off to me, or maybe i was just jumpy.

"miss SASHA, you must sign out papers, you see, you are now in the SSp as a guard, not a knight, and your criminal record is only 

covered and over ridden by my authory, you see, here in SPARKSTONE the knights have the power to wipe away any criminal record a man or woman

might have, your just lucky we need you and it is a trade off, you bring DONALD alive and your free of any record" CARSON said as he passed me a paper, and a feather to write with.

at first i was kinda shocked i could be free so easy, but i do now remember being told something like that when i was younger,

 that in this land anyone can start a new life.

I take the paper and just hold it, it was in my hand frozen. as i struggled to understand the ink blobs that was now in front of me on the dim yellow paper.

my hands freeze, my head went blank with not even a thought besides this paper in my brain.

"miss SASHA, is there a problem, do you not accept the guidelines"

he asked with a worried face, his eyes gave a glow like he was mad or something.

This was it, i had no other way out,i had to get off my high horse,and take it where it hurts,on the inside.

"ummm...i can't read or write" i said,i felt like a idiot.

my head was low,i could't even look at them in the eyes,not even MIKE,

i just wanted to run away.

i could feel my body turning cold,like i was getting a frost bite.

every man in that room sighed,it was like my chance to get away from my past and change it for the better slipped threw my hands,has i passed the paper back with a frown only 

a sword stab to the chest could compare too,i felt like i died,my hands went cold and

my heart started to race.

He cleared his throat and then said.

"miss SASHA"

MIKE groaned,like he knew what was coming.

and i knew it was over for me,maybe i could make a run for it,because iam not going back

to the dungeon.

"miss SASHA,we are happy to report you have been exclusive picked,

to hear by...blah blah blah.

My heart stopped,and my eyes opened wide like a poor man that won money,

i could feel my body coming back to life as the blood slowed down.

He was reading what was on the paper,but i thought he was going to say 

he could't work with me because i couldt read or write.

It was the best thing i could hear that day,it was like having your birthday song sung to you,you know that boring song but you are happy you are alive to hear it,that was what it felt like to me.

i thought maybe it was all over for me,

because you know,that i can't write...yeah i know what your thinking, if i can't write then how are you reading this,have you ever thought that i got someone else to write it for me! stupid.

anyway i remember sitting there with a smile on my face,it was the best boring thing i ever herd.

he was telling me what was on the papers,too bad i didn't listen,but i could't care less,i was just happy i still had a chance.

It felt like hours,i slumped in the chair day dreaming about something,but i don't remember now.

finally after he read me every thing,he told me there was a few questions and we would finish up,i sat up in the chair excited that it was almost done.

"miss SASHA,what is your age?"

most woman are scared of telling their age but it never bothered me,i look at it as 

a badge of life,showing the world i made it this far,so i raise my head and with pride i say. "20"

he wrote every thing down as i replied to the questions,he never even looked at me as he did it.

"miss SASHA,what is your surname and parents name"

i lean back in the chair and fold my arms.

"i dont know,i was adopted"

he gave a funny look,but quickly returned back to the paper.

"miss SASHA, have you been married"

i freeze solid for a second and clear my throat,with a quick peek to MIKE i look away,

i didn't want him to see me peek at him,

and quickly reply.

"no"

"miss SASHA have you children"

i was kinda shocked,i would't married so would't that give him the answer,so with a sigh i reply. "no"

he sighed the paper and took out another peace.

"miss SASHA,what village were you born in"

i tilt my head and put my finger on my chin,this was going to take a little explaining to do, i thought.

"i passed threw lots of villages,different people and kin,there is no real place i call home,but i was born in a village called, SPOT FORTRESS"

he and MIKE looked at each other with a strange stare,like i said something horrible.

"sir,this woman is from SPOT FORTRESS,could we allow such a...woman as that to enter our city,could we allow a woman from that place to become a SSp" 

JACK gasped.

CARSON gave a sign with his hand,JACK saluted and quickly left the room.

"CARSON, i never had info that SASHA was from such a land as SPOT FORTRESS"

MIKE bowed his head as he replied.

"miss,SASHA are you adware of that land, do you have proof you came from there"

CARSON asked rubbing his chin.

"that is what my grandmother told me"

i replied hugging onto my arm and looking away.

"could you introduce me to your grandmother, i wish to get more information"

CARSON said.

"no i cant do that...she died along time ago"

i cleared my throat and quickly replied.

"but i do know i got other kin,i just dont know where"

he sat there for a moment and then said.

" i must ask you to leave, and wait outside"

i slowly stand up and slide the chair,i pull my hair back from my eyes and 

leave the room with no more said,i shut the door gently standing outside i look

around in the hallway to make sure there was no one around,i lean on the wall and wait.

i wait for what seemed like way to long to finish up the papers,they were talking about what i said,for some reason where i was born had something to do with the way they acted.

did they know and only acted like this?and hoped to learn more,do they know something they are keeping from me?but grandmother never told me anything about my past so why would it even matter,nah,i was just over thinking.

i thought to my self as my head filled with thoughts i didn't want in there,

i shook my head,like a dog when drying off his soaking wet fur.

CHAPTER 3

things to do

finally MIKE opened the door, i quickly scanned for any smile to know if i was allowed to pass or not, soon a small glimmer of hope slowly turned my fear to hope, his face said it all.

i felt better after seeing him come out with a smile, i knew i was over thinking everything, MIKE waved for me to return.

"miss SASHA, welcome aboard"

CARSON saluted me and passed over a browns plack, it was just big enough to see, but it was all the proof i needed to be now part of the SSp, i take the plack and hold it tight in my hand, bowing to him i reply.

"thank you commander"

the plack was one of the most beautiful things i seen, even though it was just a bad paint job of a symbol, but 

it still showed me i finally belonged somewhere.

i was about to ask what was my first mission but

He shook his head and quickly replied in a voice that sounded like relief,

with a long gasp of air he said. " miss SASHA, you are under inspectors MIKE authority until we finish the papers"

I look over at MIKE,

my eyes were met too seem warm and caring but cold at the same time, 

i didn't want him to think i really cared i was partnered with him.

he just smiled back but it was a very small one like he was trying to hide it.

"miss SASHA, just to clue the misunderstanding that you may still be wondering why you were arrested today, i asked JACK which is

forth in command, to come and bring you to the SSp office, so you understand it was a miss understanding

JACK sometimes acts like he is above his authority"

he said giving a small bow to show he was being genuine.

i shake my head and smile replying.

"think nothing of it commander"

"miss SASHA i do have one thing to ask"

CARSON said.

i raise my eyebrow wondering what he was about to ask.

i mean he did just kinda end everything off, don't you hate that, when someone says everything and then thinks of one last thing.

"miss SASHA, here at SSp we offer a life that many can only dream to have, i know for now you are forced to do this work,

but once it is all finished, if you consider changing your mind to join for full time

then please let me know"

stay forever here in this place, not in a million years, i don't want and will not be a SSp member all my life if i got the choice, i think to my self. but i knew i could't say that so i just smile and say.

"yes sir"

finally we leave the room and go straight for the hallway, i clip my plack onto my shirt, it felt good knowing i was now part of something, it was like i had finally found my place, maybe.

we walk out pass the huge room where people were still waiting, the young man in the front desk was still busy.

the room was like a giant waiting room where people would come to get reports and make complaints and pay tickets.

then at the doors to leave there was a desk where a young man seemed to be filling out paper work

MIKE quickly rushed over and leaned in over the small deck to grab something, reaching in behind the desk he pulls out a sword.

to my surprise it was my sword.

"why was my sword behind the desk?"

i asked snatching it from his hands like a child.

i tie it around my side where it belongs.

finally everything felt good to me, nothing to worry about.

"SASHA, ya was taken away, and i thought ya would want it after we were finished speaking with the commander"

"well i would thank you for bringing it but, this means you went into 

my room without me knowing! AND THAT REMINDS ME MIKE, why is it my shoes was taken off when i was sleeping?"

i asked jumping in front of him crossing my arms.

he froze in his place like a wall was placed in his path, but this wall was pissed and wanted a answer.

he scratched his head and even tried not to give eye contact.

"SASHA, ya was resting and i removed your boots because it seemed uncomfortable"

he said, his face was towards me but his eyes was trying their best to look away.

i gave a glare, but a glare that would scare even the most mightiest man.

"don't ever, touch me or my belongings when i am sleeping, you can never come in to my room unless i say you can"

i snapped making a fist.

he said sorry but to me it seemed cold, like it was fake.

but i accepted it.

leading the way out i follow, but a drawing of a man on the wall caught my attention,

he was old and bald with glasses, and his name was CLINT, he was a wanted man,

a reward too for bringing him in.

i stand there and take a good look of the picture and try to remember the face.

then after making sure i could't forget the face, 

i follow MIKE, walking out side passing threw the glass doors i take a deep breath in the fresh air,

it was way better then the smell inside, it smelled like sweat in that place.

cracking my fingers i take deep breath to relax.

MIKE opened a small pouch and then handed it to me,

with a puzzled face i was unsure what to do with the bag.

"SASHA, ya now part of the SSp, the coins in that bag is ya first pay,

it is not fit for a knight to be walking around dressed like a hunter, ya need to invest in new clothes and weapons,

usually the SSp prepares this but in your case...you can buy it"

he said pointing at each and everything i was wearing, to my head to my shoes.

I was shocked at the coins, i gasped when my eyes saw them,

i never saw so many in my life.

MIKE pointed down the busy street, i struggled to see what he was pointing at,

i stood on my toes trying to look over the heads of the crowd.

"SASHA, there is a shop just for swordsmen, a black smiths, you cant miss it, built with wood and metal"

when i herd that

my eyes opened wide, like a child drooling over cake.

my heart raced as my blood shot to my legs, like a waterfall.

i just wanted to run over to that black smith.

"then lets go" 

i quickly reply taking him by the hand.

but as i grab onto his arm and try to run it was like trying to pull a house, i come to a stop quickly, turning

 back i drop my mouth open, wondering why he would tell me that and then not go.

"SASHA, have ya forgot our mission, i must seek for DONALD.

ya must follow orders of the SSp, for now ya are a guard,

explore the city, and become familiar with the pathways,

for ever member need to know all the streets if they are going to be a part of the team,

then tomorrow we will work together on tracking"

he said before tilting his hat, he turned around and put his hands in his pockets and walked away, slowly drifting into the busy street.

i stood there watching him until i could no longer see him.

i would't sure about everything he said, somethings never made sense but i was not supposed to question any knights and guards,

for every time i did, they seemed to get upset.

"so i got to do is explore the city? well that is easy, boring but

 still this is my job, just follow orders and soon i will be able to live my life"

i said as made a fist showing my self, to prove that one day i will be free.

i can do anything this city needs me for, i will become a amazing...oh i almost forgot, the black smith is down that street.

so after thinking it threw wasting no time i race towards it,

dodging the old and young as i race towards the blacksmith, it was like playing kick ball without team mates, everyone was blocking your goal as you ran towards the end.

finally reaching what looked like the blacksmith house i stood there trying to guess if it was open.

panting for breath i rest before stepping in.

it had a large window for display, showing off his work, like the armor or axes.

a large chimney towered high as smoke burst threw to the sky,

the walls was metal with wooden beams.

it had to be the place, so without thinking twice i barge in.

the door opened to a small room, but it had a high ceiling,

it looked like it was taller then it was wide.

The room was filled with swords and bows, and those barrow weapon things that look like cannons.

knifes and axes, it was just a wonderful sight, my heart filled with butterflies,

because i knew sometime later i would be coming back here.

My head filled with thoughts of what i should buy,

i felt like a child in a candy shop, my eyes jumped from one shelf to another.

"may i help you" a old man said, his voice was just loud enough to hear,

he never even looked at me, he was to busy reading a book.

"just looking around, thank you"

i had to look around first, i thought that asking something like that was a dumb thing for a shop keeper to ever ask.

if i needed help would't i just ask for the help, i mean it was not like 

he gave me time to even know if i needed help...

ok off topic.

i slowly walked around the shop, checking all the shelfs,

i wanted to make sure i knew i seen everything in there.

then a wonderful sword on display caught my eyes, it looked like a well built sword,

i picked it up and tested the balance,

it was perfect, it could balance on my finger just away from the handle.

i tested it's weight, i pretended to fight, as if someone was about to attack me,

i took a fighting stance putting the blade over my head ready for a finale attack.

"miss, are you ok?" the man asked, he peeked out over the counter,

when our eyes met 

i was frozen and turned red like a straw berry, i felt so stupid,

like ten people just watched me trip over my own feet.

"oh, well, yes, thank you, well"

i stuttered as i tried to think of something to say so i would change the subject,

i cling to the sword and bring it to the counter and lay it down.

then pulling out mine i lay it along side the new sword,

it looked like a old worn part form a wagon wheel compared to the new sword.

"how much could i get for this"

asking him as i slide my sword to him, but he just stared at my face,

i knew he was looking at my scar, i turned a little so he could't see it,

then after he realized what he was doing he faked coughed and acted like he 

didn't do that, i just roll my eyes and forget about him staring, not only is he a old man,

he is a rude man.

he picked it up and felt it over,

the deep scars in the metal was like battle scars, showing it's history.

the sharp edge was still able to slice a leaf but it had cuts deep into the blade,

it was more like teeth on a dog then a sword.

with a straight face he looked at me and said.

"miss this sword is in really bad shape, i could melt it down and make a new one,

i will offer two silver coins for this sword"

i gasped, i thought it would't worth much but that was a low offer.

i pick up the lovely designed sword and hold it tight in my hand but making sure not

to point the blade at him.

"so how much is the sword?"

i asked tilting my head.

"miss that is more then you could ever make in a life time, i suggest to pick 

another"

I felt like punching him in the face.

don't you hate it when people judge you by how you look, by how much money you have.

i kept my anger to myself, he would't worth getting mad over,

so instead i took out the bag that MIKE gave me, and tossed it on the table.

to me it was better then a punch in the face, because he was adware that he was wrong.

the pouch sounded like a pile of bricks as it fell to the counter.

his eyes jump as his hands quickly rush to open it,

and when he peeked in his mouth fell open.

"so can i have the sword" i asked.

i knew he was going to say yes.

as he reached out his hand to take the coins and count the price, the door opens.

we both peek over, and standing there was a woman, dressed in the same type of cloths 

the rest of the SSp knights have, she even had the symbol on her armor, 

dressed like a proud knight she marched to the countertop with her hand laying on her sword,

as the other swings freely.

i was surprised to see a woman dressed in the SSp armor, most i seen so far was men.

"good day, PAT, how is the wife, i hope she got over the flu" she asked in a bright smile.

"getting better but the doctors at the infirmary is still struggling to keep the fever down" the shop owner replied.

passing over her sword to PAT the woman peeked over to me, but kept her eyes from locking to mine.

"you think you can have this fixed soon, the sword needs a little love, oh is my order in yet?" she said.

"breaking swords in battle, sounds just like you, but yes MILADA i can have this good as new before sun down. 

yes your order is here, just arrived.

one moment i be back" PAT replied as he took the sword to another room, to where i could only think must be his work shop, where he builds and fixes swords.

then we were alone, it was a little awkward as we both stood waiting for PAT to return,

i was never for the silence when with people so i had to break the ice some how.

"so i guess you work for the SSp, how long have you been with them"

i said not bothering to look at her.

with a sigh she looked to me and leaned on the countertop.

her straight hair like a whip was black like coal, 

tall for a woman and looking like a really relaxed person,

she looked middle aged, her wrinkles was not showing or grey hair,

but you knew she was no spring chicken.

not someone you would think of when you think of a warrior.

"i been with the SSp for at least ten years. say i never saw you before are you a visitor 

from a far land come to see our wonderful city?" she asked.

"well funny story, in fact i just joined the SSp, well not really i am still getting paper work done, but you know it well be done soon i think" 

i said locking eyes to her.

"oh! really, what is your name and why no armor? are you just a guard,

we can't get enough recruits"

she replied in a small smile, like she was happy i joined.

"the name is SASHA, and yes i am from SPOT fortress" i said proudly.

frozen for a second she never moved or blinked.

"well SASHA nice to have you aboard, not many woman in the SSp you know, so another is welcomed" MILADA said holding out her hand to me to shake.

i reach out for a friendly hand shake, gripping my hand and squeeze hard, like she was testing me.

just smiling back i act normal like what was happening was her not knowing her own strength.

"glad to meet you too. so where you from anyway, were you born here or did you like move here long time ago?"

i asked as she let go of our not so friendly handshake.

she was about to answer but PAT returned.

"i will have the sword finished shorty, so come back when the sun is high, oh and here is your order you wanted"

PAT said carrying a box, he then lays it on the counter top.

"thank you PAT, speak too you later SASHA"

MILADA took the box waved goodbye and walked back out.

"miss, is this sword all you are buying?" 

PAT asked.

but i never said a thing, because i was thinking.

why did MILADA freeze when i told her where i am from, CARSON acted weird when i said the same thing, when we were doing paper work back in his office in that room.

there must be a reason why? 

what is it about SPOT FORTRESS, i mean i was never told anything by my grandmother.

i thought as i started to think about what just happened.

"MISS, are you ok, are you ok?" PAT asked as i had to shake myself out from day dreaming again.

"sorry, yes that is all i want" i replied.

PAT counted the money and gave me back my change.

i thanked him and took my new sword, putting it in it's sheath,

waving goodbye i walk out the door.

CHAPTER 4

a new fried or enemy?

i rushed outside, in search for MILADA, i was hoping to track her down

but she seemed to have vanished, like a magic trick.

the morning was passing fast, my stomach was growling like a bear, 

huger filled my mind as i thought about getting a bite to eat.

if i was hungry then chances are MILADA would be too, so if i went to the food 

market i would probably find her there, and plus i get something to eat.

it be killing two birds with one stone!

i thought to my self.

i stay up on the stone built side walks keeping away from the busy streets,

where horses and carriages seemed to flow like water in a river.

it was so busy in this part of the city it looked like a bunch of beavers 

building a dam.

the perfume of fresh food put me in trance, the smell of fired fish and eggs, bread and even bacon cooking on pans from the small brick ovens outside, would make every mouth 

drool like a dog.

the sight of the apples in crates and fresh fruit made me want to cut in line,

freshly picked dew covered fruit sparkled from the sun, they looked like diamonds.

SPARK STONE CITY was famous for it's apples, it had the best land for growing.

 i remember when i was young hearing about stories of people coming from far lands to this city just to eat them, now i was going to get my chance at it's famous cooks.

my stomach ached for food.

the food market was over populated, chatting in all directions made it impossible 

too hear what was said just next too you, i had trouble trying just not to bump into 

someone.

finally i found my place in line of a breakfast corner shop,

the canopy over the small outdoor shop kept the sun from beaming down on the cooks.

steam from pots towered like smoke from a chimney.

i could smell the sweet perfume of the eggs and bacon sizzling in the frying pans.

slowly the line would get closer and closer, soon i would have my breakfast.

"THIEF" a woman cried.

she ran out chasing a lad, but he was way to fast for her fat body.

his little legs was like lighting, they were a blur.

ZOOM, right pass ME the little snot, he was a thief and i had to stop him.

quickly i put my hair back into a pony tail and chase him down the street.

i ran like thunder after him, we were both dodging people,

it was like a game to him, he would look back and lick his tongue at me,

jumping over barrows and running around carts, it was like a crazy race inside a

house full of chairs.

When i was chasing him i felt like a big sister chasing my little brother because

he did a prank and made a run for it.

my feet was starting to struggle too keep up with him, he was just to fast.

if i could not out run him then i would have to out smart him.

so the next time he tipped over a crate trying to slow me down i faked that i tripped.

the owner of the crate tried to blame me for the mess but i could't explain anything now,

saying sorry i got out of sight and run down a small ally way, between two buildings,

they were just the right distance apart to spread myself like a spider and climb,

putting one side of my body too one wall, and the other side of my body too the other wall i cling to the brick buildings.

 my nails cracked and my boots slipped as i rushed to the top fast as i could make my self go.

gasping for breath my lungs just wanted to quit, because it felt like trying to hold your breath after swimming under water.

never knowing a child would out run me i felt out of shape.

my body wanting to give up and say he won, but i could't let my self loose to a brat,

forcing my aching muscles to climb, i cling for my life, and grab onto the next layer of wall and the next, finally reaching the top, i gave a final kick and falling to the top, taking deep breaths i wipe the sweat off my face,

forcing my self to stand my body stumble to the other side where i fall to let myself rest,

looking out over the roof, as if i was a condor looking for meat, i try and spot that lad in the crowd.

then my eyes catch him, near the pubic fountain, he was getting a drink,

if he was stopped it was because he felt safe.

the idiot, if he only knew i was watching him like a eagle,

he slowly walked away from the fountain.

so i stood up and had no choice but to follow,

then reaching the end of the roof top, i gaze down,

like i was looking from a mountain, one wrong step and i would fall, to a solid ground where my knees would break from shear impact.

The lad was slowly disappearing from view, i had no choice but to risk it and make the jump to the other side, so taking a deep breath i stepped back and made a run for it,

i flew in the sky for a second before crashing to the other roof.

finding my feet i stand up and brush off.

now i had to do it again to the next roof top, i did this until i could finally see him,

then he was making a turn down another street.

"perfect, this is like cat and mouse"

i said to my self.  i watched him go around the building to the other side right under my trap,

all i had to do was jump down onto the canpoy below and grab him,

easy right, all i had to do was plan it just right,

just like a game, you just wait for when the other player to make a wrong move and then

you strike.

He was below me, and stopped, he was watching a customer at some kind of shop 

for clothes.

he was probably thinking on how to steel from that place.

so i sit on the ledge of the building letting my legs hang over the side. taking a deep breath, before pushing my self off.

it was like when you were a child on a big slide,

you knew everything would be ok, but you were still really scared.

falling like a stone i burst threw the tents roof, it helped slow my fall.

it ripped open like a shirt being cut with a blunt sword.

falling on dusty ground below i slam into the ground spreading out my hands and legs,

it hurt but not enough to make me stop my mission.

when i landed, cloths flew in the air like kites in a storm, breaking the shelf's they were on, clothes spotted the ground.

it was good for me to make the surprised catch, the lads face was just wide eyes and a mouth,

he could't believe his eyes and neither could the shop owner.

as soon as i could feel my legs i jumped at him like a cat on it's prey,

slamming him to the ground i body check him to his back.

"finally"

i said in long breath, i grabbed onto his hand making sure he could't get away.

"LET ME GO"

he shouted, ripping at my hand, he desperately tried to get away, acting like a caged animal.

We both stood up.

 i was happy knowing i did the right thing,

might even get a raise in pay for such a good job, maybe a medal or 

a nice trophy i thought.

"HELP"

the shop owner screamed running away.

i thought to myself he must be calling for knights to come help,

of course he didn't know i was a knight, i never got the clothes for it yet because 

i never really started yet, but i knew they would completely under stand.

with a job well done my body finally could calm down,

i felt like i just finished a race and that i came in first.

the crowed watched in disbelief as a few including the shop owner ran for help.

"THERE IS A INSANE WOMAN TRYING TO KIDNAP PEOPLE"

he screamed running to a knight, he grabbed onto a knights arm and pulled him back,

then with a knight leading the way the crowd marched closer but kept their distance, making sure if i did try to get away i would have no chance, unless i wanted to slice my way threw, which was lucky for them that i did not want too.

their faces said it all, they would't going to take kindly to what happened, to what i did, catching this snot of a child.

my joy turned to fear, as i saw them come to me with faces of anger.

the lad kept trying to get away but i made sure he would't going anywhere,

i held onto him like a bear trap.

then as the knights got close i gave the boy a push, to that of a sister tripping up her brother.

he fell to the guards feet.

"well i caught the thief, you can thank me later"

i said brushing my hair out of my face.

"take him in" one of the men said.

"your under arrest ma'am" another guard said pointing to me.

"what? i caught the brat, he was steeling money from a shop owner"

i gasped pointing to the lad.

the guard stepped forward, reaching out his hand like he was ready to grab me.

"back off, iam didn't do anything wrong" i cried backing away lifting my hands,

showing i mean no harm.

then one of the knights from behind jumped me, wrapping his arms around me

like he was giving a bear hug.

"LET GO YOU IDIOT" i shouted, but he just hugged tighter, the other guard then 

came at me ready to tie my hands as i was trapped.

but like a caged animal i struggle to get free!

i quickly whipped my head back, hitting his nose, breaking it, it sounded as if i broke 

glass.

shouting in pain he drops me and clings to his face, like a dog licking his wound.

then before i could get a chance to make a run for it, the first guard came at me with his fist raised and ready to fight.

he tried to slam me down to the dirt, but as he grabbed onto my arm i grab his hand,

spinning around like a twister in a flash, i bend over throwing him over my shoulder, 

like i was taking a swing with a ax chopping wood.

he slammed onto the ground, his chain armor rang like bells.

i knocked the wind out of him enough that i could have gotten away, but 

a third guard came bursting from the crowd racing towards me.

the crowd watched in disbelief as i already took on the two guards.

this one came at me knowing a simple tackle was not going to bring me down.

like a boxer he lifted his fist and danced like a pro.

my hand jumped to my sword to draw it...but i knew i could't kill them, making my self 

release my thoughts of using my sword, i try to back away, but he clearly was not going to let me leave.

every time i tried to escape he jumped in front of me, but stayed far enough i could't hit him.

ready to defend myself i raise my fists, like shadow boxing i try to punch him,

we were standing like two boxers ready for the bell to ring.

but i was blind to the real plan, it was a trap to sidetrack me, then the other two guards i dropped to the ground finally found their legs and soon the three of them came at me.

they took me down like a house of cards, one went for my legs causing me to loose balance 

as the other ones jumped me, we fall down, i struggle to get up but it was useless,

over powered and out numbered, i gave up.

they got me back to my feet and arrested me, a SSp carriage seem to come out of nowhere 

to pick me and the lad up, they put us in it and soon we were heading back to the SSp building. sitting in the horse drawn carriage, being surrounded by guards seemed like deja vu to me.

this time i got a better look of the city, it was like a tour, i noticed the buildings and people more, i was almost enjoying the ride.

"if you just minded your own business then neither of us would be in trouble"

the lad said nudging my elbow.

"oh shut up you stupid snot" i backed kicked him, we both started to fight with our legs,

but the guards separated us.

then before i knew it, we were parked back at SSp headquarters, getting out and brought inside, the lad and me was split up, going to different rooms, we looked like a sister and brother that got in a fight and now was being punished.

they guide me back to the hallway where all the small rooms are.

i was back to the door that opens to the same room i was in already.

the guard untied my hands then opened the door, the room was empty! as he pushed me in he slammed the door before i got a chance to turn around.

with a sigh i sat down in the corner waiting for someone to return.

then i could hear foot steps coming closer, my ears jumped with excitement.

hoping it was MIKE.

the door slowly opened and to my disappointment JACK was standing there.

he stepped in and gently closed the door behind him.

i jumped up to meet him face to face and try to explain what happened.

as i got close we were only standing feet from each other, his lips was firm 

like anger was filling his heart, without blinking he stared at me.

" why you disrespected your superiors"

JACK grumbled

"what are you talking about? i caught a thief on my first day on duty as a guard,

i didn't do anything wrong"

i argued.

he stepped closer trying to get me to back away.

i never made a move just stared back.

but i kept my ground,

we were nose to nose like to ally cats preparing to fight.

"YOU DESTROYED PROPERTY AND REFUSED ARREST, THEN ASSULTED THREE MEN FROM THE

SPARK STONE PROTECTION, PLUS YOU NEARLY KILLED A CHILD BY JUMPING FROM A ROOF TOP"

JACK shouted, turning his head spiting to the floor.

"ok so i did a few bad things but i can improve"

i laughed rolling my eyes, joking trying my best to take what he said with a grain of salt.

"IMPROVE" he snapped. raising his hand to hit me.

my hand jumped to my sword from reflex, without thinking i was about to draw my sword,

we both stood like solders unsure if to attack.

then it went quiet, no sounds to be heard.

he took a deep breath and took his hand away, rubbing his face like he was washing it JACK turns around and sits in the chair.

i sigh relief and take my hand away from my weapon.

"ma'am your acting like a child,

 for the way you acted in the field today means some sort of penalty, but i don't have the authority too do that, but i will make a note of it, i will see too it the commander gets it" JACK said.

sitting in the chair he pulls himself closer to the desk, dipping the feather in the ink bottle he begins to write something.

"well i guess i should not have hit anyone, i should be the one to say sorry,

but everything happened so fast, and i still dont understand why i got punished for catching the brat"

i said brushing my hair back behind my ear, wanting to change the topic but i could't think of much. thinking this was just as good as time as any to address a problem i have with this man.

"why is it you hate me, i mean the first day i came here you been sassy to me,

so what is it that i did"

i asked.

"ma'am i dont hate you, i disapprove of your kind to be here in the SSp , if you don't understand it, it is because you don't understand history"

he said still writing on the paper.

i was going to ask what he was talking about but then the door swung open.

"sir, i, SASHA..."

MIKE gasped trying to tell us the news.

JACK stood up from the desk and took the paper.

"MIKE, good timing, me and SASHA was just having a talk here about how she could improve on following orders, she is making progress in being a better guard"

he said in a tone that seemed happy? like he just went from a upset child to a puppy.

"JACK this is not the time or place, but hear this, it seems the ship was spotted.

where is COMMANDER CARSON?"

MIKE said in a gasp, he really did sound like he was about to run out of air and die.

"wait, MIKE it was spotted?" JACK asked with his mouth left open.

he jumped from the chair rushing to the door.

MIKE nodded.

"i think CARSON is in the back room, you go find him, i will search for MILADA.

wait here SASHA we will be back"

JACK said as he stepped out pushing MIKE out as he went.

CHAPTER 5

all aboard!

when they left the room i sat down in the chair and waited for them to come back, after so long i got board, i mean it was not like there was much to do.

he was taking longer then he needed too.

getting from my chair i put my ear to the door to make sure no foot steps was heard,

after waiting a while without hearing a sound i knew it was safe to open the door.

there was no one around,

nothing but a long hallway painted with doors along the sides.

stepping out i watched my back, making sure no one would spot me,

i walked down the hallway the same way a lass would try to sneak away from her mother when bath time was coming.

passing by a closed door i could hear a faint chatter, 

i lean in and put my ear on the door wanting to know what they were talking about.

"i can make it look like accident"

i heard a voice say, but the door was too thick, the voice was muffled.

leaning in tighter i try to hear the voices better using my whole 

body to the solid door and hold my breath so even my breathing wouldt distract me.

"don't be foolish if you act without with that plan even a idiot would catch us"

i herd what sounded like a old man say.

"who are you guys" i whispered to my self, i tried to pin point the voice 

but i could't think of who it could be.

"what about SASHA!" i herd a voice say.

my heart stopped. who ever it was knew my name but i still could't understand who it could be.

"that red head well be leaving soon, remember she is just a hired sword"

the one that sounded old replied. it was hard to pick out the words behind the door but i was sure this is what was said.

trying to listen behind the door was like having your own hands over your ears as you talk.

biting my lip i wanted to storm in the room and catch them in their plan,

only problem i didn't know what the plan was.

i only knew it sounded like they were going to kill someone!

but who?

"i thought CARSON was supposed to be here?" 

"just be patient, they will be"

the two voices chatted.

when i herd that i knew i needed to get back into the room

JACK left me in, i jumped from the door and rushed back quietly,

running back down the hall and

getting back just in time to sit down and act like everything is normal.

just as i got back too my room, a knock came on the door and then MIKE peeked in the room.

"SASHA, can you come with me, we have a meeting"

MIKE said waving me to come.

i jump from the chair and join him.

as soon we were in the hall way walking too CARSON'S office i whisper to MIKE.

"i have something to tell you"

he brushes me away and keeps walking.

"SASHA, this is not the time" 

he said.

"MIKE, it is really important"

i whispered again.

"SASHA, it well have to wait for later, ya have a meeting now with the COMMANDER"

MIKE replied with a shush.

standing at CARSON'S door, MIKE pulls it open for me to enter, then he follows,

shutting it as we went in.

"miss SASHA, glad you made it, the time as come for you too make good on your promise"

CARSON said.

he was sitting down at his desk.

books, papers and a map stretched out across it like a table cloth.

"yes sir" i saluted.

"miss SASHA this here is miss MILADA, she is one of our best knights"

CARSON said pointing to her with a open hand.

"yes i know, we already met" i replied nodding.

he gave the thumbs up and returned looking back at the map.

MIKE went and sat down across from him at the huge table,

JACK and MILADA was sitting only feet from MIKE,

they were all studying the books, there eyes focused like they were playing chess.

MIKE poked his head up from the papers and singled with his eyes for me to

come over with them.

i pull out a chair and sit at the huge solid table, it was built like a frame for a house, strong enough to hold what ever you could fit on it.

keeping my hands to my self i didn't dare touch the map that was covering the whole table, like a blanket on a bed.

i was surprised how detailed it was, every shop and street was marked,

of course i had no idea what was written there.

commander CARSON sighed and then shut the book.

i perked up ready to listen to his order.

"miss SASHA, you and MIKE will be working together on this one, sense you two already have some trust built.

your mission is simple, you and MIKE will search for the hostages, we believe 

in the belly of the ship, in the cargo hold is where they are being held.

once you find them get them to the poop deck"

commander CARSON said.

i peeked over to MIKE and then back to the commander.

"wait, i thought i was supposed to help find DONALD, no one said anything about a rescue mission!" 

i replied crossing my arms.

"miss SASHA, you were informed you were to assist MIKE, of course it is a rescue mission,

for we can't fire cannons from our ships and risk killing our own woman which was kidnapped" he replied.

"kinda still not following why you would want me?" i asked.

"miss SASHA, we can't attack the pirates with our ships, but the pirates can attack us,

so you see we have to do a rescue mission in the dark, only a small amount of people can board the pirate ship, iam sure you under stand archers are not any use for close combat, so swordsmen is the only choice, your skills have many rumors so as you see your a great 

asset too the SSp"

CARSON said.

"well that makes sense i guess" i replied scratching my head thinking it was a silly reason to ever take me out of the dungeon.

"SIR, WITH ALL RESPECT DON't YOU THINK HAVING THIS WOMAN WOULD ONLY CAUSE US TROUBLE"

JACK barked jumping from the table.

"SASHA did her time, now she is a citizen in training for the SSp"

MIKE replied, glaring to JACK

"hey anyone that can save a lass can't be all evil? but...she is very skilled in swordsmenship, she might turn on her own" 

MILADA said keeping her face to the papers not bothering to look up.

"SILENCE. MIKE have taken it upon him self to have her as his apprentice,

she is his responsibility.

now back to the plan to save our woman and children, don't forget this is why we are here" commander CARSON said.

JACK stepped away from the table and went to the window, he stared out, his hands 

hung to his sides.

he was watching the crowd outside as if he was a wolf stocking prey.

CARSON faked coughed to get everyones attention, the cough was dry like he was forcing it.

"MILADA and JACK, you two will dismantle every canon onboard, turning the pirate ship into a helpless raft, while i myself will go and dismantle the ships wheel.

after that is all in place we will single to our ships to come from the docks and then 

we will be able to capture everyone onboard without bloodshed"

CARSON said. 

"but wait, they out number us, what if we wake them! what then?" i asked putting my finger to my chin thinking this plan could all back fire.

"miss SASHA, don't panic, we will be boarding the ship at night, the pirates will be sleeping during the mission, but if we clash with a pirate then i have a plan B to take control of the situation, we will be carrying guns, new technology to change how we fight, with this weapon we can kill ten pirates with one shot"

CARSON said stepping up out of his chair.

"i agree with SASHA, those pirates would average at the very least thirtytwo, which means at best we will have five or more pirates each, so the best outcome is twenty precent, so commander this means only a fifthteen chance of survival, that is only if we put 

in the facts that we all know how to fight"

MILADA said peeking over to CARSON.

"mis SASHA, please excuse MILADA, she tries to factor down everything in math"

COMMANDER CARSON REPLIED.

he walked over to the back room, JACK peeked behind his shoulder but kept in place and stayed near the window.

opening it up there was a solid built safe behind it.

CARSON pulled out a key and slid it in the slot,

turning it the lock opened. a thud sounded like a hammer hitting a pile of wood, the 

large door in the safe squeaked open.

pulling out a barrow weapon he smiled as he held it tight.

"miss SASHA, guns are the future, more powerful then a sword in a mans hand,

faster then a arrow, guns will soon be the weapon all SSp members will use...

but they still have their faults"

CARSON replied walking back to the desk, laying it down.

"what is the fault?" i asked scanning it over.

"the reloading is slow, that's why a archer is still a more dependable choice"

MILADA said, with her head held low, it looked like she was cleaning dirt from her nails.

"miss MILADA, a archer can't penetrate as deep, this weapon is more powerful"

commander CARSON said.

MILADA used her hand like a puppet, as if she was speaking the same words as him, it was like MILADA herd the very words a hundred times.

CARSON grumbled after realizing what was happening.

the scene made me think of a daughter and dad relationship on how they can know each other inside out.

tilting my head keeping my finger on my lip i just sat there thinking.

"sir, can i pick it up?" i asked.

CARSON nodded.

i reached out my hands and grabbed onto the metal barrow, the wooden handle was clunky.

holding it like it was a baby, the dead weight was too much for me to hold for long,

it was like carrying a horse, i struggled to keep it in my arms, just as if my body ached to carry it much longer i had to lay it back down.

"how can anyone hold this? it would tire out a man having to drag this too war"

i said brushing my hair back behind my ear.

"that is another issue with the damn weapon, it is too heavy"

MILADA said.

CARSON shook his head.

"this is the future if you believe it or not"

he replied in a deep voice trying to defend his claim.

"well we are not in the future, the past can't touch us and were stuck in the present"

MILADA replied making a smirk knowing a quote always defeated a complaint.

i had to agree with her on this topic, i knew CARSON thought highly of his weapon 

but for now it was nearly useless.

"sir, what is the point in showing her such a weapon?"

JACK asked quickly turning around from the window, throwing his hands in the air.

"private. every SSp member is titled to see and learn any advancement we make"

commander CARSON replied.

"sir, she is not even a member, she is..."

JACK replied but stopped as CARSON showed his hand like a sign.

looking back down to the barrow weapon i could't help but think 

it was the future but not till it got up grades.

"well i myself well stay with the sword, i have yet to see enough proof that these...

weapons are better" i said.

MILADA gave a small smile as she peeked over to me, faking to draw her sword,

i think it was her way of showing approval.

the commander faked coughed to get everyones attention. this time the cough sounded more dry, like this time it was more like a scratchy sound like you get when your sick.

standing proud he put his hands behind his back standing like a student at graduation.

"very well. the plan is set in place. everyone was informed, tonight we attack the pirates and put a end to these kidnappings"

the commander said.

"sir i will fetch the ammo for the guns, but i my self will use a sword for my protection"

MILADA said slowly getting up from the table.

the commander nodded then turned to JACK.

"private, go and inform the sailors at the docks the mission is still going ahead,

tell them to prepare for tonight"

JACK saluted and then left the room.

the rest of the day i was speaking with commander CARSON, he told me all about the SSp

and it's laws.

talking to him was boring, but my trusted stomach got me out of the chat, once the COMMANDER herd it growing he knew i have yet to eat that day, he quickly got me to the cafeteria. to me it was a little strange here we were getting ready for a mission and he

brings me to get a snack.

chapter 6

i remember

the room was fairly a good size, it was much like a normal cafe,

you pick up your tray and get in line, moving pass glass walls with steaming food on the other side, that was being survived to you by a old cook lady.

the smells inside was like perfume to my nose, the food there was far better then any normal person would buy from the market.

every pie or cooked meal was prepared as you ordered, nothing was hours old.

it was fresh or it was thrown out, to me it was a waste but i had to admit it tasted way better.

you only had to wait a few moments to get a meal.

soon after getting our meals we sat down too a table that was already nearly filled with people, like the other tables surrounding it.

commander CARSON was chatting up a storm with everyone there, lame jokes and smiles filled the air as i tried to eat.

he introduced me too lots of new people, telling them my name but not once did 

he say where i was from, if they asked CARSON he would just skip the question or say i was from a nearby village.

CARSON told me more about the SSp, how there is different divisions and how they all work together, then he told me about some of the history of the building,

how part of it was destroyed long ago by some crazy person using a cannon.

or when the SSp building was used as a shelter when SPARK STONE CITY was hit by a storm.

i admired the place a little more now knowing it was more then just a building but a part of history.

the cafeteria was large, big as a classroom in school.

way more people worked in the SSp then i thought, the place was like it was swarming with ants.

i could't help but wonder how many of us was in this building.

"sir, how many people work for the SSp?" i asked as i had was digging into my bowl of hot soup.

but there was no point in asking, he was too busy talking with the crowd, he talked with them for way too long.

it was like watching a sales man trying to rip people off.

the place seemed like a giant family, a family that you could trust with your life.

as chatter surrounded me i tried to ignore it all and just enjoy my dinner.

but my head filled with thoughts, then i remembered something!

"sir, sir" i asked trying to get his attention, finally he picked up on my voice and turned to me.

"miss SASHA, what is it that you seek?"

"early this morning i caught a lad, what ever happened to him?"

"the people that is brought to this building is too be put on trial, 

until their day come, they wait in the silent room"

before i got a chance to think to ask anything MILADA butted in.

"follow me, i got to show you something, unless you like sitting listening to people talk in a crowd" she said.

i wouldt sure how to act or if i should go with her or look for this so called silent room. but early this day i tried to find her but she walked out on me, now i had the choice to be with her, so i took it.

i nodded and took my soup and brought it up front to the kitchen before leaving, i stepped into the hallway and headed towards the entrance.

"what is it you want to show me?" i asked puzzled.

"like i said silly, just follow me and don't worry about what it is, lets say it is a surprise" she replied.

bringing our unfinished dinner to the kitchen i felt bad for the pile of dishes that was piled like a tower for him to wash, the men working there seemed like they were in a rush trying to keep up with the demand.

as soon as we were in we left.

we walked back threw the hallway and we past the cafeteria.

then i saw the stairs, it was the same as seeing a tall hill, we began our journey up the steps,

i kinda wanted to explore the rest of the building sense we were passing by another floor each time we went up another set of stairs.

every time i got a chance to peek out a window i did, watching my self get higher and higher like i was scaling a mountain, it was ten floors we walked up, then at the top was a door.

it was built like a dungeons gate, feeling a little uneasy about it all.

"well come on, i hope you like it" she said.

MILADA pushed it open and to my surprise, wind kissed my face, sunlight burst threw casting a warm hug, stepping out i learned we were now standing on the roof of the SSp building, there was a large flag pole in the middle that proudly carried the flag of the KING.

the red and yellow symbol was the same as the coat of arms painted on every SSp armor,

it made me feel like i was the only one without that title, the title of a real member,

i never received my armor yet so i still stood out from the rest of the SSp members,

but with my plack i knew i was on my way to becoming one, but my stomach told me something was not right.

MILADA stood to the edge of the roof and leaned on the fence that surrounded the roof top,

the shoulder high metal fence was the only thing stopping anyone from falling to the roads below. 

i walked over and stood next to her, but i watched my step, a little uneasy about the height, so i kinda clung to the fence for my life as she was resting her head on her arms, her eyes glaring out to the city below.

my chest was tight like someone was sitting on it.

the sun beamed down on us and we had shadows stretch from one side to the other of the roof top. it was slowly getting late and soon the light we did have was soon going to be from the moon.

MILADA looked so calm, as if every problem that she ever had just disappeared.

"it is just wonderful, don't you think so?" she asked.

my mind was racing with thoughts of the roads that looked so far, i could even see the roof tops below me that i was on earlier chasing that lad around.

i felt as close to flying like a bird then i ever did, the strong breeze made my hair swim like it was in the sea.

after i adjusted to the height slowly becoming less scared.

soon i could force my fingers to let go of the railing and just lean on it like MILADA.

turning to me she asked. "so what do you think? is it too high?"

shacking my head because i didn't want too seem like a wimp.

"the city is amazing" i said looking out over the railing like i was some kind of queen.

ha, like i could ever be such a high title, but to be honest iam not sure i would want to

be a queen, all show and not much more

i thought to my self.

the buildings were different from seeing them with a birds eye view. watching people below looking like little ants, made me think of the city as a maze. you know like a maze for mice you build as a child too see if it could find the cheese you hid.

the sun was slowly setting down pass the evergreen covered mountains, it splashed red and orange over the sky like a child would draw a picture.

the bright sun was slowly sinking like a boat at sea, our faces was being kissed by the last bit of light.

"i always come up here when i feel upset, sometimes people just need to stop and smell 

the roses"

her mood changed to what seemed to darker thoughts, a fake smile and lowered eyebrows painted her face.

"hey now SASHA...do you ever think about death?" MILADA whispered gently like she was telling a bedtime story.

unsure how to answer i pause for a moment, i knew why she was asking this, it was 

because deep down under that experienced warrior their was a lass, 

one that was scared of dying.

"i think about it alot, i even tried to get it to get to come" i replied, she peeked over at me with a puzzled look waiting for 

the rest of the story.

i felt really awkward knowing i almost told her i nearly tried to commit suicide.

i had to quickly think of anything to help move the topic forward, i felt like a 

mother trying to explain the birds and the...

we stood there for what seemed like years but it was only seconds.

"i think so much of it, i wonder why and how we die, we all die at some point in life,

it is not that i am scared of dying, it is just that i know it will happen so it makes me feel lest scared. i bet that sounds crazy"

i said.

scanning the buildings below i just keep my eyes at the roof tops.

the gentle wind blew up the building to the roof, like the mist you feel from standing close to a waterfall.

nothing was said for a while, we both just leaned on the rails, watching the sun set.

"yeah it makes sense. so how about you, you ready to keep working for SSp"

MILADA replied in a slow manner like she felt as awkward as i did.

"yeah i guess, but working here is not that bad"

i replied.

she giggled.

"what you think being in the SSp is all about work! it is a way of life for many,

i mean we don't always fight or kill people, that is just one part of it,

lots of times we just help the farmers or even explore new lands.

when i was young i thought the SSp were just war hungry killers"

MILADA said.

"so wait? you said you been in the SSp for about ten years,

why would you join if you thought it was so bad?"

i asked.

with a sigh and scratching behind her head she replied.

"pa wanted me to join, he said it be a better life then working as a baker,

i remember fighting with him because i never wanted to join, but because

he was part of the SSp it was nearly impossible for me not too,

my pa was such a strong willed man"

she replied in a light giggle.

"he was?" i asked thinking the man must be dead.

"yeah...he was. he was killed in battle,

ma struggled with it but soon got hitched. i was young when he died, pa never seen me in the SSp, or carry a sword to battle, he thought i would never join"

MILADA said but was nearly chocking up, but she kept all tears back.

acting tough.

we stood like statues and just watched the clouds slowly turn from a soft pink to a dark black.

then just before the sun drooped out of sight she perked up.

looking all around up in the sky like she was expecting something was going to drop out of it and crash.

then taking a deep breath she whistled, wrapping her hands around her lips trying to echo the sound for it to reach deeper into the air.

puzzled i just stood there watching her not sure how to react.

she kept doing it over and over to the point where i was about to ask if she was alright,

but then her whistle was met with a scream.

the scream of a hawk.

the hawk circled above before making a quick drop down, falling like a kite without support.

MILADA held her arm out, the bird pitched softly, like it knew not to use it's talons for a kill.

"hold it, you got a pet?" i laughed.

MILADA smiled."SASHA meet SHADOW"

MILADA stroked it's feathers, the bird looked relaxed on her arm.

delighted to see a hawk so close i wanted a closer look at a hawk, not every day i can see one.

stepping closer the bird screamed and flapped it's feathers like it was about to attack,

jumping back i raise mt hands too block my face.

MILADA laughed like a clown that was at a party.

"iam sorry SASHA, SHADOW don't like other people, you stepped to close, these birds are like that too their owners you know, so don't take it personally"

"good you can keep him" i barked because i knew the dumb bird was sassy with me.

chapter 7

"come on, it's getting late, we need to find the commander, soon we will be heading out to the mission" MILADA replied.

we both went back down the steps down to the first floor, this time i kept my distance from her, i never wanted the hawk too feel threatened.

 we walked pass the empty cafeteria and passed the entrance, back down the hallways where the doors lined the walls. then before reaching the commanders office we stopped at a door. that i could only guess what was on the other side.

"i need too feed SHADOW"

MILADA said. pulling out a key she unlocked it, we both step in the room.

"sorry it is so messy, i never get a chance to clean it" she laughed.

the room was filled with pictures and paintings, it was like a art gallery.

paper bags and empty containers was stacked like towers.

empty food sacks cover the floor and the bed was a complete mess.

i seen a parcel sitting on the floor, the same one from earlier today, i wanted to ask what was in it sense she have yet to open in, but i thought it was none of my business.

"wow, you really live in this room?" i asked.

MILADA was putting the hawk back in the cage, it leaped from her arm and jumped into the large cage which took up half of the room.

"what? no no no, i live downtown with my husband, but while i am on my shift i sleep here in the SSp headquarters, plus it is a way to get away from that jerk of a man"

she replied locking the cage.

"jerk! do you mean..." i asked but never kept my tone.

"yes my husband is a jerk put nicely, he is always away on business trips,

i am the one who has to deal with inlaws, look after our child by my self,

and deal with all the other daily stuff.

sometimes i think he loves money more then me...sorry for rambling, but sometimes my husband really gets on my nerves" MILADA said shacking her head. pointing to the door hinting for us too leave, we both step back out to the hall way.

marching to the commanders office we knock on the door.

"enter" a voice calls out.

we open the door and step in shutting it behind us.

it was almost like a copy from the first time i came in, commander CARSON was sitting at the desk where a maps stretched out like a floor mat.

MIKE was sitting across from him but JACK was nowhere too be seen. 

"miss SASHA i must apologize for asking MILADA to find you, i should have kept you by my side.

well miss SASHA are you ready? we leave shortly, JACK is preparing the ships and informing all the sailors" CARSON said.

i nodded and he saluted, then i saluted back.

MIKE and commander CARSON stand up from the table, they both took a barrow weapon each and then rest it on their shoulder, the butt of the weapon they carry in their hands like a baby.

MILADA quickly took off the armor she that was steel clinging too her body,

taking it off in only seconds she looked different as i never seen her with out it,

under that metal armor was a woman after all i laughed thinking too my self.

taking the noisy armor off was a good idea, i was thinking it would be pointless to have it for a stealth mission.

"come my comrades. COUGH. tonight we fight for the freedom of our people, too free them from a burden these pirates have given too us"

CARSON said marching away.

his voice sounded like it was getting deeper, the sound you get when the flu attack the throat.

we left the SSp headquarters threw the back door, the back door was connected to the barn next to the building, it is where they keep the horses and wagons,

most of the horses were in their stables resting, but one pair was hooked up ready to move on a moment notice,

they were waiting for us like we were masters.

the barn was wide, it must have over fifty stables inside, lamps hung from the roof and shined like stars lighting the way threw the hay covered paths.

it smelled bad, that of what else, s**t.

all the windows or open doors could never air out a smell so gut turning.

climbing aboard the wagon we wait for MIKE to open the barn door, soon with the large double door open CARSON took the reins of the horses and whipped them,

with a bounce the wagon squeaked forward.

moving slow enough leaving the barn gave enough time for MIKE too jump into the moving wagon, he pulls himself in and over like a child would effortlessly climb a fence.

as soon MIKE was in we raced away like lighting,

the wheels bounced down the stone roads.

we speed threw the roads like a wild animal would on a trail, CARSON was making the 

horses race like our lives depended on it, the city was so beautiful at night,

the stars above shined like diamonds, the moon was cast a dim shadow on everything

making it look taller then it really was.

street lamps danced as candles in the house flickered, giving a warm light too dim eyes.

the paths were lit like fireflies painted them, for even the moon could't cast the light the lamps were showing.

but in the pit of my stomach i felt scared, i could feel the 

pain in my body like it was a stomach ace.

holding my self tight i tried my best not to seem nervous 

we quickly made our way closer to the docks where JACK was waiting for us, soon i could smell the sea, the salt perfume was like candy for my nose, i loved the smell of the sea.

ships danced in the water as the gentle waves splashed their bodies.

tall like mountains and big like a town the ships could have been seen from miles away,

their mast stretched high into the sky as the white sails dangled like wind chimes.

proud and strong the ships were like guardians protecting the city.

finally reaching the seaweed covered docks we come to a stop, jumping out we meet up with

JACK, who was patiently waiting for us, standing with him was the captions to each and every ship.

JACK saluted.

"sir five ships wait for your order, our row boat is ready and the pirates ship was last seen 4 miles north just before sundown"

JACK said.

"that is nice to hear, good work private. now tell the captions don't make a move until 

we give the single" 

CARSON said.

JACK turned around and waked back to the captions and informed them.

we all marched down the wharf too the end, to where our so called ship would be waiting,

the small row boat waved like a leaf in the wind, the water pushed it around like it was a bully.

"were all fitting in that thing?" i asked stepping back.

i didn't want to get into the raft of a boat, it looked older then CARSON.

"well all aboard" MIKE laughed looking at the small boat.

"after you" JACK said.

CARSON took the first step down the rusty ladder too the boat below, then the rest of us followed, finally after we were all in we the ropes was untied.

CARSON and MIKE sat side by side and started to row.

the boat was like a leaf floating in a river, it was almost helpless to the sea,

the tiny boat was perfect for a secret mission at night, for it's size would make it hard for any eye too spot us out in the middle of the black sea. it was more of a mirror then anything else, we slowly made our way out the cove and into deeper water too where we believed the pirate ship was anchored. 

i kept my eyes out for anything that seemed out of place, but it was not much too see besides water and the moon.

JACK kept his eyes on the compass making sure were kept north.

but then slowly a shadow of a large ship stood in our path of sight,

the pirate ship seemed like a resting animal, it seeded as if to me it was a trick.

i thought to my self, i could feel something in side my body.

it felt like a man pulling my hair.

 telling my mind not to get near this ship, but i had too finish my mission.

chapter 8

dark as a cave

the dark outlining of the pirate ship was like a painting, a dark painting that only a skilled artist could master.

it was spooky watching it float in the black sea, with only the moon to cast light

over what looked like a ocean made of glass.

slowly we rowed towards the ship, keeping our guards up MIKE held a barrow weapon aiming at the ship, in case a pirate was keeping night watch.

if a pirate did spot us we could fire at the ship to distract them long enough for us to get out of harms way.

creeping up to the ship my heart jumped, i could feel sweat coming form my hands,

i just wanted to run away but i knew i could't i had to do this,

fear stung me like a scorpion.

first it was only a touch but soon the poison would take over your body making you useless.

our tiny roll boat now along side the pirate ship was like a lion and a cub.

like a house it stood tall and proud.

we waited for a minute to listen for any sounds of foot steps on deck,

but our ears was only heard the sounds of silence.

MIKE took a small anchor that was tied to rope, the metal was cover in padding so it would't make a sound as it landed.

spinning the anchor in a giant circle he let it fly in the air up and over out of sight,

right over the side of the ship.

pulling on the rope he made sure it was caught before climbing, must have been the bravest man to go first into such danger, if anyone spotted him we would be helpless to help.

he climbed it like a cat in a tree, fast like lighting.

like a knight in shiny armor, he was my...first man i would pick for a mission.

after he reached the top he gave us the all clear, we all took our turn and climbed up 

like we were master ninjas, my hands aches to let go and fall but i forced my hurting muscles to keep moving.

up on the deck we were only greeted with the ships three masses and tied sails,

nothing was in sight, not a sign that people were even on this ship.

it seemed totally dead.

"JACK? did you not say this pirate ship was rated DD!" 

CARSON whispered.

JACK scanned the deck but never moved his feet but kept in place,

trying to see what he could without making a move.

"sir, my sources informed me this was ship was rated DD" JACK whispered back.

i was worried and confused about what they were talking about but they seemed upset so it was enough for me to be scared.

my eyes glue open.

"so what do this mean?" i asked MIKE as quiet as i could.

"SASHA, ya stay close, the ships layout is different then we believed,

but the mission must keep going"

MIKE whispered.

CARSON nodded and gave the thumbs up.

we stayed in a pack, as if we were making a plan for a ball game,

with very few words whispered we split up, for we all knew the plan anyway,

it might be a little harder now, but this was the only chance.

the shadows kept pirates eyes from spotting us, i watched CARSON head to the captions wheel, 

but as soon as he passed a corner it was like he went missing, not even a trace or sound.

now our mission was to tie the door shut to the captions chambers, it is always the 

door up near the poop deck. with the moon light giving a white light, the deck was painted in shadows as clouds above drifted away,

cutting some rope from one of the masses was a great idea, it was the same as killing two birds with one stone.

after we cut the ropes that controlled the sails we turned the ship into a raft with a wheel, it was not just a floating house, 

we used the rope from the mass to quietly tie the door shut,

if anyone was inside it would make it a lot harder to escape and attack us, if they knew we were here, and by cutting the masses rope it turned the sail into just a white sheet hanging from a pole. slowly but without a doubt we were taking over this ship. 

it was now the rest of us had to head in the other direction, the four of us tip towed 

across the deck, trying our best to test the boards before stepping on them and making a sound with a loose plank.

coming close to one of the large masses we could hear foot steps from the other side of stacked boxes. my mind raced with thoughts, i thought we were going to be caught,

my body felt tense, it felt as though bricks was covering me,

it was the same feeling that you get when playing hide and go seek, 

the feeling of you know where they are but you wonder if they are only playing with you 

but really knows you hiding spot.

but this game could mean life or death.

my hand hovered over my sword ready to draw it, but MILADA whispered to me.

"no, you jump him and i will get him,it is much safer if we work together"

i never argued to why she wanted me to jump him, i was to scared to think.

we all moved a little closer to the stacked crates, a barrow standing next to it was filled with apples.

i put my back to the wall of boxes and move like a ant, fast but without noise.

sliding my back i held my breath as i came close to the end.

i could see the man dressed in rags standing near the railing,

his hair was a mess, like he never combed it.

i never counted to three and i never thought twice, as soon my eyes seen him i jumped him from the back, as i was in mid air i stretched out my arms.

just like a tiger jumping prey.

soon my feet touched the deck and i wrapped one arm around his mouth and the other around his arm and shoulder, he struggled to break free. it was like hanging onto a wild horse.

we both fell to the planks.

i never let go, but with both of my arms wrapped around his body it left mine free to a hit, he tried his best to hit me, but i clinging to his back made it nearly impossible for him strike me.

MILADA raced over and ripped out her weapon, faster then a blink form a mans eye.

before i could say a word she stabbed him in the skull as i was still clinging to him.

his head split open like a peach would, if you threw it to a brick wall.

her sword only inches from my own head, i knew one wrong place step and i would have been killed and not him.

but MILADA guided her sword with precision better then a skilled painter with a brush.

her movements just like a clock, nothing out of place, with the result of a killing strike without hurting anyone else.

the old pirates body stopped moving immediately, without pain the pirate left this crazy world, that was the only thing that kept me from feeling like i helped the murder.

but this was no time to think about life or meaning we have in this world, there was no time to waste or keep.

pushing the dead body off i quickly get back to my feet.

his blood now clinging to me, reminding me life is short.

i was gasping for breath, the struggle took the wind out of my body, it was a short battle but he was a powerful man, any longer and i would have no choice but to let him go.

MILADA came close to me.

"are you ok? do you need a cloth to get the blood off"

i nodded and she passed me a rag, i wipe my face.

without losing time we keep on our journey.

finally reaching the front of the ship where the last mass was standing we came to the door in the floor that would send us to the hoard.

in the belly of the ship is where we must go, down in the darkness where eyes would be 

useless and pointless.

it would be the same as entering a cave without a lamp.

opining the door we slowly and carefully open it trying not to make any noise.

inside was nothing but a black wall.

one by one we climb down into the ship.

with only sound and touch we had to feel our way threw, hoping we would not bump into a man in the dark, none of us would see and it would be like fighting blind.

we would have a better chance killing one of our own then a pirate if a fight did happen.

i wanted to scream from fright, i could feel my muscles going tight like a hammer left in the rain turning with rust.

we were like a bunch of blind mows digging in the dirt, not sure where we were going but knew we were going.

walking slowly deeper in i felt that this was a crazy plan, a plan that could get us all killed, but we could't see any pirates down here then they could't see us,

so keeping that thought in the back of my mind it kinda made me feel a little more safe.

"listen i can hear someone" MIKE whispered.

we could hear the sounds above us, it was foot steps on the deck above, there was many, they were searching for something? they knew they would't alone and we knew the plan has now back fired.

CARSON was up on deck alone, we were down under the ship searching for the kidnapped woman and children, the mission was to find them and save them from these men, but now we have been found out, with our options running low we had to make a new plan and fast.

clinging to my arm i was gripping it tight, almost ripping the skin with my fingernails,

my stomach felt ready to burst, i could't hold it in, i was about to vomit, fear anger and a stabbing pain filled my body, it was the same filling as watching your own death.

confusing would't be able to come close to the right word to describe how i was felling.

MIKE used a flint to light a small wick, the tiny bit of light was only enough to see each others face.

"listen we need to keep going, what ever happens we don't go back"

JACK said, MILADA nodded. MIKE looked back thinking we should return to the deck.

i was just not sure what to do.

JACK led the way, we followed and crept around the next turn in side the belly of the ship, we were ready for a fight but what we didn't know was they were going to bring the fight to us.

as soon as JACK walked around the corner a pirate popped out, tall and dressed in what must have been stolen royal clothes.

JACK took a swing with his hand like a boxer, landing a solid hit the pirate slammed up to the wall, JACK lifted up his barrow weapon and put it tight to his shoulder, 

pulling the trigger the weapon sounded like thunder as a flash of light broke from

its mouth. the small led ball cut threw the mans body, it burst open 

like a bottle under pressure, his chest now with a fist size hole in it.

blood flowed out as if it was a river.

the man died in seconds.

JACK was about to reload,

but then another pirate from the left jumps JACK, they both fall to the floor in a struggle. MILADA draws her sword, but it's length was a challenge, scraping the walls as she would hold it, made it a useless weapon down here.

then a swarm of pirates screaming like mad men came charging towards us,

it was a wall of angry men, JACK was covered like a beer to a bees nest.

MILADA stood her ground blocking the pirates attacks as long as she could,

but the small area was the downfall for her, unable to dace with her sword she 

was quickly over taken.

MIKE still holding the small wick was the only light that cast threw the shadows,

he grabbed my arm to run away but i ripped his hand off, i couldt just leave.

the chaos took over the plan.

it was the same as watching a ball game fall to peaces because the other team was cheating.

i jumped back unsure what to do.

then i had a idea.

snatching the light from MIKE before he could move in any direction,

i throw it at the back of the wall and soon it went out, the shadows covered everything,

everyone was screaming and fighting, struggling everywhere, it was like war with blind cats.

i felt like a child with fighting parents.

i lid down to the wall trying to stay out of the battle, i was kicked by the stumbling men, listening to the cries of my team now vanishing into the dark i was slowly becoming adware in the chaos and the fear i was somehow missed. now alone the pirates take 

my team away, our clever planing and experience was nothing to their over powering numbers.

 i was blind but i could here them go to the top.

panting like a old dog i tried to stay calm, just like how a teen would

pump their self up before asking to go on a date.

standing back up leaning to the wall. unsure if i should continue my mission or rescue my team. i marched back to the door, the hatch that was the only way back up to the top.

standing below it i looked up to it, feeling like a rabbit wondering if a hawk was waiting.

i slowly push the door open and peek up, my eyes level with the deck, i could see the planks stretch out glowing from the moon light, pirates was surrounding my team.

they were all there, even CARSON. now i knew we were in trouble, if they had him that would mean he never got the signal out to our troops back at SPARK STONE CITY.

now we were alone with these crazy men, that out numbered us like a bees nest.

then the chatter and chanting went quiet.

my eyes scanning what little view i had.

then i heard heavy foot steps coming closer.

then just feet ahead of me i could see the boots of a man who was staring at my team,

he was back on to me so i didnt know what he looked like.

"i see that my men have found some guest, but i will sure you iam not friendly"

the man said.

"i knew DONALD you would be part of this corrupt gang, but i didn't think you would be leading it into it's own filth"

CARSON said in a calm voice.

his hands tied behind his back just like MILADA, MIKE and JACK.

"DONALD?" i said to my self but quickly covered my mouth, i could't believe 

the very man i needed to capture was now only feet from me, and to put a thorn in a wound 

he captured us.

they were all in a line. 

DONALD walked up MIKE but never bothered to say a word to him, just looked him in the eyes and then he walked up next to MILADA.

"not bad" DONALD rubbed his hands, scanning her over like a teen would do if they were trying to build up courage to ask a lover out on a date.

MILADA grumbled and jumped towards him, struggling to break free and fight him, 

but the pirates grabbed her and slammed her to the deck, it sounded like a peace of meat hitting a plate.

"dont hurt this one, iam keeping her" 

DONALD smiled.

"get off of her...bastered" JACK said.

DONALD walked over to him. JACK went from a anger filled man to a frighten child.

"dont tell me what i can do. kill the men but i want her" DONALD snapped.

i gasped, i could't believe they were going to kill them so quickly, i had to do something, but what, there was too many of them, i mean all the pirates seemed to be on deck...

wait a second, if they are all up there then that must mean.

i thought to my self has i got down from peeking up threw the hatch in the floor.

i got down and quickly felt my way threw the narrow hall ways.

still dark like a cave i struggled to walk, but soon i found my way to the back of the 

ship, right where we were attacked the first time.

then there was a door, two in fact.

light stretched out under them like a child's eyes peeking into a room.

i opened one with my sword drawn ready to kill anyone who dare to step out, but inside was just a lamp and lots of bunk beds along the walls, it was the sleeping chambers.

i took the lamp holding it tight i use it to light my path.

turning next to the door to my right i tried to open it but it was locked,

a large lock was the only thing keeping me from what ever was on the other side.

i slammed my body to it trying to bust it down, but my small frame was nothing to this wall. it was like a fly to a window.

i had to get in, but how? i thought to my self.

then my dumb memory hit me, i had a hair pin in my hair, i take it out and bend it to make a tool, i was going to pick the lock, i was not a master at picking but anything was worth a try. it took me several tries until i finally herd the click, the lock was now open, i remove it from the door.

chapter 9

is it true

finally i push the door open, it squeaked as i slowly pushed it open.

inside was a dark room filled with woman, 

their eyes squinting as the light from the lamp burned deep into their shadow filled eyes.

the womans arms was tied behind their backs, they were sitting on the bare floor with no more then splintering wood for a pillow.

the sight reminded me of a chicken farm, everyone was cooped up together with no space between them.

i felt as if i was a messenger on the way to a king about to give good news,

my heart filled with excitement as a dog finding the stick her master thrown for it to receive. i was now staring at the very woman i was set here to help bring home.

but anger shot threw me like a arrow, i was unsure of my feelings for the pirates 

until i finally seen what they did to the woman they stole away.

i was filled with a burning desire to kill every pirate, i wanted revenge on the men 

who dared to call them self men, people who can treat others in such a way is lower then wild animals. i thought to my self.

i knee down to the closest lady to me, she was dressed in a torn dress,

her hair was fizzy and she looked cold and weak.

"who...who are you?" she asked, her voice sounded like she was sick.

"my name is SASHA, i work for the SSp and iam here to get you out of this place,

but you need to help me"

i replied.

they started to perk up, going from looking like dead bodies too people not ready to throw in the towel, they all looked weak from lack of food.

i knew they would't be ready for a fight but their numbers would be enough to pull us threw, all we needed to do was over power them and take back control of this ship.

as i cut threw the ropes with my sword i quickly explained what the plan was.

then after everyone was free, young and old i lead the way to the hatch that would bring us up to the deck.

i take my first step on the stairs and then i look back to the crowd, they were ready,

some making fists as others took deep breaths trying to prepare their minds for a fight.

i scream the top of my lungs to hopefully distract the pirates enough so i could burst out and make the first strike.

bursting threw the hatch i jump to the deck, i was jumping threw a cloud of shadows into

the moon lit sky. slamming to the planks i draw my sword in a blink of a eye, holding it for anyone ready to attack me or the woman.

i could see my team mates was now standing near the waters edge, pirates about to push them over, they had their hands still tied, they were about to drown them.

MILADA was in the corner with DONALD, he was rubbing her hair, and trying to kiss her,

she struggled to get away but the pirates clung to her like a bear trap.

it all seemed like bullies back in school.

i could see her face, it was not the face of a frighten woman, but the face of a mother bear ready to protect her cubs. 

she was forced to her knees but stood taller them any man on the ship.

i only had seconds to act upon my plan, my distraction was now over, the men would soon be attacking me.

my anger flowed thew me with the power of water running down a mountain, even if i wanted to calm down i would't be able to control myself.

the woman burst threw the hatch like ants to a spider attacking their nest, swarming out like wild beasts they scream with revenge.

the pirates surprised draw their swords, the woman might not have been warriors but they were acting like them, without words or a plan they seemed to know what each other was about to do.

one would act as bait and try to attack a pirate, as he tried swinging to a helpless woman he was jumped from behind and brought to the deck, slamming his face first.

but it was happening all over the ship, the same story over and over.

the pirates even the older more experienced was not 

able to fight, none of them was ready for this, none of them knew what to do.

it was war and confusion unlike they ever fought before.

it was a unfair match, i thought the pirates would kill them given the chance but they acted as if they were only attack to hurt them not to take their life.

all the men was acting as if a twister was about to grab you but you had nothing to grab to save your life.

DONALD spotted me in the crowd, for it was only a second but it was enough for me to freeze in place, when my eyes saw him i knew it was the same man from all those years ago.

i was shocked, my mind raced with thoughts i couldt peace together.

the man i met in the forest when my village was burned. the one who saved me that day,

all those years ago, those memories flooded threw me like i was dreaming.

for a second i could't think, only about him.

i was in shock with my mouth open and staring into nothing, if it wouldt for the fact 

of the pirate that was about to attack me was screaming he would have stabbed me like a knife cutting threw a careless hand.

the pirate guided his sword to my face, we were like foxes fighting over a home.

i counter his attack and with carefully placed steps i spin around and to get behind him,

but he was more skilled then too fall for a old trick,

he countered and jumped back, i blocked his next stab to my leg, using my sword

i guide his up and away, we step closer to free our swords from the sword lock,

it was as if we could dance to the music.

grabbing his shirt i keep him from backing off,

twisting my sword i free mine from the lock and before he could act i

stab him in the shoulder, screaming from the cold pain he falls to the deck.

taking my sword i stab him in the chest, he screams like a dying animal,

his body struggle to move but the aching pain keep him from any movements.

he slowly died as blood came up to his mouth, dripping out like a cracked pipe.

with my sword i twist it and rip out as much skin as i can as i pry it from his body,

using my foot to keep his body to the deck.

it was like using your hand to help pull out a knife from frozen meat.

the next man was holding MILADA'S sword. running to me with anger to get revenge after seeing his own brother die 

he tried stabbing me, but he was acting with anger and not using his head, his own blinded mad thoughts kept him from controlling his sword.

catching his blade with my own sword i slide mine close to his face and step in, like a dace move.

we were locked together like a broken puzzle forced into a wrong hole. now only inches away from his face he was about to jump back and take another swing,

but i spit in his face, it was enough of a distraction for me to slide my sword out of the lock, grabbing his wrist, it made it impossible for him to swing at me, before he could react i stab him in the arm cutting it up to his neck, blood gushed out as if a  was bottle breaking under pressure.

he clings to his arm and with a hard body check i send him down, to where he hugs his body trying to stop the bleeding, he was like a deer with a fatal wound.

snatching back MILADA'S sword i take both of them and rush over to MILADA.

she gets back to her feet. spinning around she leans back pushing her arms out to make it easier to cut the ropes.

her sword slices threw the ropes like a hot knife threw butter.

she spins around and grabs her sword before i could get a chance to pass it.

"come on we can't let him get away, or do you want to die filled with anger"

she said.

i look back to where the rest of my team mates was, but in all the chaos it seems 

that the woman got them all free, the tides was turning to our favor, it was no longer a war, but a fight that we was winning.

i chase after DONALD with MILADA, racing up to the poop deck next to the captions champers, he runs in slamming the door behind him for a desperate way trying to escape.

i reached the door first, i break it down by body slamming into it.

finally inside the room i got a quick look of the captions chamber,

a small room with lamps for light, a bed and a table for eating.

like a small house.

DONALD was pointing a barrow weapon to me, i was frozen in place, unsure what to do.

our eyes meet.

"wait... your that girl" he said lowering the gun.

"dont shoot me iam on your side i think" i replied lowering my sword showing i didnt want to attack.

MILADA stormed in screaming like a crazy person her sword was blood thirsty.

with a fright DONALD acted with fear, without aiming he pulled the trigger,

the loud deafening bang stunned us all.

the led ball only skimmed my shoulder ripping flesh as he passed, finally the ball stopped in it's tracks behind me in the wall.

hugging my shoulder i try to hold back the tears.

the burning pain was more then i could bare, falling to my knees i bite down on my own teeth trying to take my mind off the knife like pain.

MILADA jumped DONALD as he was about to reload, but she was to fast for him to get another shot, they fall to the planks. like two lovers.

he dropped his barrow weapon and she lost her sword in the fall.

they were in a desperate struggle, MILADA had the upper hand and was punching him repeatedly, just like a girlfriend that found out her boyfriend slept with a another woman.

"MILADA DON'T HE NEEDS TO BE ALIVE" i screamed. jumping to my feet i run and body slam into her, i knock her off, she then slams me down to the floor in rage, and pins my arms over my head, making it impossible for me to move, my shoulder now acing like it was being torn 

i cry for her to let me go as she screamed in blind anger.

it was as if a mother screaming at a baby.

"you can't kill him MILDAD" i said.

"YOUR A SPY, I KNEW I SHOULD HAVE 

NEVER AGREED ON YOU COMING, YOUR A JUST A REBEL"

she punched me in the lips, i cover my mouth and  roll out of her way as she jumped up and was about to attack me and him.

DONALD jumped back to his feet and ran to the corner, where a lamp was laying on a table.

"give up DONALD your out matched, call off your men" MILADA snapped reaching for her sword.

"no little beauty, your out matched with a clever man as me" he replied 

taking the lamp he opened it so the flame was without a glass case to protect it,

he took the fire and lit a fuse that was poking out from the wall, it burned quickly and then went out of sight down threw the floor.

"what did you do, where do that fuse go to?" MILADA said poking her sword at him, she was only feet from slashing his neck.

with raised hands he smiles and replied. "so queen what i your choice, die trying to kill me, or run for your life, that fuse is heading down to the hoard where tons of black powder is waiting to blow up" he replied.

"thats just a trick" she said.

but his calm reaction told us he would't pulling our leg, with a smile like that, a smile of victory and so 

calm that his life was about to be taken from him by a womans sword we knew it was not a trick.

MILADA grumbled and ran to me, grabbing my hand we burst from the room.

back out side where our team mates and the rescued woman now have taken control of the 

ship, the pirates now all tied to the mass in a circle.

"GET OFF THE SHIP, ITS GOING TO BLOW" she shouted waving her hand to CARSON and the rest.

running to the starboard side we climb the rails, balancing on the rail we were ready to jump, unbalanced we tip trying to stay on top.

MILADA looked to me and said.

"i be right behind you, but i got to do something" she gave me a push, i tried to grab her hand, but she knew i would try, falling reaching up i felt like i was betrayed, i wanted to stay if she was staying.

my feet kiss the wooden planks for a final goodbye, falling as if i was a anchor, i plunged into the sea, water splash into the air.

i swim back to the surface, i cough repeatedly from swallowing water in my lungs, i almost choke.

i felt helpless now, just swimming in the water, i was noting for anything,

i could't help anyone on board, i felt so much like a kitten to a giant,

no matter what i did would't be able to effect a thing.

all i could do now was helplessly watch the battle.

then i watched DONALD jump the stern of the ship,

after you watch the caption abandoned ship you know things were real,

the pirates still on the ship cried to be released from being tied to the mass.

but there was no time.

everyone was jumping over the ship, i felt as though i was watching 

marbles roll off a table.

some of the woman refused to jump, my heart felt frozen, why would't they jumping?

i asked my self, they leaned over the rails but could't pull them selfs together to make the fall into the dark water.

i searched for MIKE, CARSON, JACK, and even MILADA, but i couldt spot any of them.

my body was getting ever tired from trying to keep myself a float, the fighting from on the ship already put a dent into the energy i had.

even if i did see them i would't know, for everyone looked the same in the water,

just black spots on the deep sea.

shouting and cries echoed threw the sky.

i was now starting to struggle to keep my self floating.

then before i knew it. 

BANG!

the ship exploded into a million peaces, a fire storm burst in every direction besides down, the fire was so bright it was like putting your eyes to the sun,

the explosion was louder then anything i heard before, louder then any cannon.

my ears was ringing with pain, i put my hands up in front of my head to protect my face, planks of wood fell all around me like apples from a tree in a storm.

a giant wave came rushing towards me as a wall, it pushed me like a water slide,

to it's mercy i drifted away from the explosion.

then it went dark and quite, nothing to be heard besides the water slapping my body.

i shout out for anyone to hear, i scream as if i was a mother looking for her lost child.

chapter 10

who did the wrong 

i was still floating in the water alone, nothing but debris of the ship drifting around me i was now alone. i was in shock.

"was everyone dead?" i asked my self, my body went so tight and cold that the water around me was slowly turning to ice.

my thoughts raced like a wild horse out of control, i was ALONE IN THE SEA.

i desperately searched for a peace of the ship big enough to support my weight,

slowly i look threw the splintered wood as if i was searching for a puzzle peace from a box. checking twice making sure you would't miss it.

finally i found something that could float me, clinging to it i let my body rest.

but my mind could't.

"SOMEONE, ANYBODY CALL OUT PLEASE" i shouted as i desperately searched for any signs of life. "MIKE, JACK, CARSON, MILADA" crying over and over like a lone wolf in search of it's pack. i would be quit after each call hoping i would hear them,

but my calls was met with silence, slowly accepting the fact i was the only one alive. i felt sick to my stomach, pain shot threw me as the loss of my team mates ripped threw me like a hot knife threw butter, a part of my body felt dead.

the ice cold water soon started to take any heat i had left, i was starting to freeze up, my hands started to shake, loosing control of my fingers i knew a few hours from now and i will be dead like my team.

moving as less as possible to try and save energy my muscles started to stop working,

i could feel myself dying.

i must have been in the water over a hour, i watched as the moon slowly started to rise to the top of the sky.

even though i knew there was little hope for me i still felt calm,

strange enough i felt relaxed as i knew there was no point in fighting,

i just accepted that i was about to die, it was the feeling as if i was old and 

was rocking in my old chair looking out a window looking back on my life.

then my ears picked up the faint calls of someone shouting, it was only a whisper.

more quiet then a mouse squeak.

thinking i was dreaming i ignore the calls, until i could here it again only this time it was louder, they were getting closer.

it was CARSON! i knew he was close, his desperate cries whispered in the still air,

i pushed off from the broken peaces of wood that kept me a float, splashing back into 

the cold water, like a wounded sea turtle i struggle to keep my head above water,

my body felt like it was slowly rusting.

"WHERE ARE YOU CARSON" i shouted looking all around only to see peaces of the ship drift away like memories.

then i see a shadow of a body floating face up, it had to be CARSON, he would't moving,

i desperately swim faster, after i reach the body my stomach turned to a frozen rock,

my heart nearly stopped, the body i was looking at was that of one of the woman that 

was on the ship, her face burned like fried chicken, her hair gone, only a rag covered the rest of her lifeless body, that slowly drifted away.

the sight nearly made me vomit.

then i could hear coughing, like a old man, CARSON was close to me,

the moon lit night gave only hits to help me find him, i see a arm rise up out of the water like a tree growing from a desert.

"CARSON" i shouted as if i was a child that just found her mother after being lost in a store.

swimming over i finally meet him. he was laying on his back on a peace of broken wood,

he was clinging to his chest, blood oozed out of his mouth like a broken pipe.

his eyes staring up to the sky, he looked relaxed like i did when i was thinking about accepting death.

"CARSON, don't move, dont talk, save your energy" i replied ripping my sleeve to make a

bandage, but he would't let me lift his arm to see the wound.

"you got to let me see it, we got to stop the bleeding"

i said nearly crying.

feeling as if i was a mother watching her child die i clung to him as if he was my baby.

"MISS...S, you need to" CARSON said but he was coughing to much to get any words out.

blood jumped from his mouth like rain hitting metal.

he sounded like he had the flu with a high pitch breathing, he was struggling to catch his breath.

"STOP USING YOUR ENERGY" i cried clinging to him, staring into his face.

he gave one last breath and then he went silent, he stopped breathing.

i checked his pulse but there was no pulse to feel.

his body became lifeless like it was now only a warm statue.

the cold motionless face sent chills down my spine colder then the water around me.

"CARSON?" i whispered over and over, but there was no reply.

i asked over and over like i was trying to wake a sleeping man, with each time i had no response i repeated it faster and faster louder and louder, like a music band starting a song. 

"CARSONNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNnnnnnnnnnn" i yelled the top of my lungs tilting my head back screaming to the sky, like i was angry with the world, as if life seemed to hate me for no reason. my head raced with thoughts that made no or any sense.

worst then a twister trying put together a broken cup.

"DONALD YOU SON OF A. I WILL MAKE SURE YOU DIE" i yelled pushing CARSON away, my desperate mind now wanted revenge of the man i believed was the killer of CARSON,

i wanted to make sure DONALD had the same future CARSON now had. none.

my once cold body felt numb to the cold as a anger flowed threw me worst then a 

raging storm. i slammed into every peace of the broken ship looking for DONALD.

but soon i was left with nothing but water to take out my rage.

soon i could hear the calls of men, it was the ships from SPARK STONE CITY,

they come to look for us, sadly it was late. CARSON was dead, and everyone else i had no clue if they were alive, i call back.

"HEY IAM HERE" the ships sailed towards me, soon two men jump over board to rescue me from the water. they use a net and the men on board pull me up like a whale, up over the side i fall to the deck like a turtle on his shell, i could't move a muscle, i finally 

feel to tired to even lift my head, i just lay on the deck as the men cover me with blankets and rush me inside the captions room.

the small lamp was the only heat i felt in hours, i sat in the chair and watched it as if 

i was a peace of ice waiting to melt.

my body was shacking like a flag in a wind storm.

the caption of the ship dressed in his suit sat just feet from me, taking some hot water he puts it in a bucket for mt feet, and gets a steaming hot towel and wraps my hands in it.

"your lucky to be alive, your blue as a whale" he grinned with his chubby cheeks.

"where...did you see anyone else?" i asked slowly.

my head to heavy to life it just kept looking at my own hands.

the caption sighed and put his hand on my shoulder.

i peek to his warm face.

"we found your team but we have yet to find..." he said but

 soon stopped talking as he heard men form out on deck shouting.

 the caption raced out. i knew it was CARSON they just found in the cold ocean.

for there would be no one else for them to shot too.

i broke down with tears, screaming like a lass i try 

my best to keep the noise down. i was like a sister who lost a brother.

we sent sail back to SPARK STONE CITY, the gentle rocking of the ship reminded me more of

back when i was young and grandma would rock me too sleep as i cuddle up in her arms.

memories stabbed my heart like a bee sting, not enough to make me scream but enough to 

make it hurt.

"how foolish was i to act like life met nothing, the last few years i been thinking it is all nothing, barely wanting to live i use to play with the thought of death, and now here is CARSON, a man that never asked to die now have his life taken from him"

i said to my self, as i cling to my arm, like a child would do if he was  a shame of what he did.

the water splashed the bow of the ship, the captain came back inside and too my surprise MILADA was with him, i jumped up from the chair still clinging to the blankets that was wrapped around me.

i quickly wiped away my tears not wanting anyone to see me cry.

a few quick sniffles and i was as good as new.

"your alive, are you hurt?" i asked, quickly stepping closer.

"i should be asking you the same thing. will SASHA i guess this means your name is cleared" she said, with a small smile.

not sure if it was from the fact i was still tired or that the ship was rocking in the sea that made me loose my balance. i tripped over my own feet and fell to the floor like a child who was learning to walk.

MILADA reached her hand out to help me up, i refused the kind gesture and stood on my own, pulling my hair out of my face i then wrap the blankets tighter around my cold body

that seemed to just keep shaking, it was like my body didnt know i was out of the water.

"just get some sleep, we will soon be shortly back at SPARK STONE CITY, after everything is over we can finish those papers for CARSON C..."

MILADA started to break down but kept any tears from showing, instead she turned around and walked back out side from the captions chambers, back on deck.

she seemed like a young school girl who was shy and didnt want to show any emotion.

she and the caption left me alone, i didnt see her anymore until we finally docked back at port, ropes was thrown to the men on the wharf, it was like tinging a calf to a fence,

they scrabbled to wrap the think ropes to the beams, pulling the ships in they all dock,

it was like watching a cow boy round up cattle.

MIKE and JACK was on the other ships that docked behind me, DONALD now under arrest,

his cloths still wet from being in the water, i could have only have guessed to what they must have done to him down in the billy of the ship once they caught him.

the night never showed any sign of giving up its darkness, morning was still hours away,

a horse and wagon took us back to SSp headquters 

at night the building looked like a tree full of fire flies.

CHAPTER 11

the end of the old 

the following morning after waking up from my sleep that i needed, i climbed out of the small bed, spending the night inside the SSp building i got a better apperation for my bed back in my house. the ones in the SSp was the same as sleeping on planks of wood as the peace of bark for a pillow.

everyone was in gloom, you could see it in their faces, the death of a friend and a amazing commander was laid to rest.

but no matter how heart breaking the story life goes on.

that morning CARSONS funeral took place, all his family was there, dressed in black,

only ones close to him was invited to his funeral, leaving me and many others to only 

wait for the funeral to be over so we could pay our respects.

after all the crying and the finale roses cast upon the grave was the graveyard yet silent. 

hugging and loving words gave little comfort to his now widowed wife.

soon they left and walked out to continue in life that would't stop even for this respected man.

finally with everyone gone i could stop leaning in on the fence and enter the graveyard myself. it was full of tomb stones, the grass long and dirty, with crows resting in the trees made it seem kind of eerie.

the bright sun hovered as it slowly grew and became higher in the sky.

i slowly walked threw the graveyard as i peeked to each and every grave,

trying my best not to bump into a tomb stone.

it was like a poorly built maze but the walls only knee high.

then finally i found CARSONS, the fresh dirt now covering where he now rest.

roses and eye catching flowers covered the stone built tomb stone.

still not able to read i could't even know what final words that was written there.

i sat down crossing my legs, with my cloak wrapped around me like a blanket.

i had my head low as i struggled to think of last words to give.

the feeling going threw me was like what a child would feel after watching their pet dog die, it was a ripping heart that i struggled to keep from breaking into two.

but i kept my self from crying.

"CARSON, i know you can't hear me, but...iam thankful that you gave me a chance to

clear my name, i know i never really thanked you so i guess now is better then never. THANK YOU FOR BELIEVING IN ME AND THANK YOU AGAIN"

i took a deep breath and stood up still staring down.

feeling guilty that i never really took the time to thank him i would now have to keep those words forever.

my guilt was like a dog that have torn up a pillow of his masters bed, a lowered head with soft eyes.

"i thought i would find you here or at least at the wharf" 

i jumped up holding my breath turning around.

"MILADA?" i gasped in shock surprised to see her.

she was dressed in all black clothes, long sleeve and a black skirt with a hat and every thing, wearing what you would expect a woman to wear at at funeral.

 

"i was just...visiting?" i said slowly.

"he will be missed, but that dont mean you have to forget him"

MILADA replied with a smile.

she walked up next to me and sat down, we were like two lasses watching a play.

we just stood there in the dead grass, the crows sat on the branches and watched us,

it was a freaky feeling but the pain i felt in my chest from knowing he wouldt coming back made it more frighting.

the sun grew higher in the sky, the wind gave a gentle breeze, clouds started to form and change the bright day to a grey morning.

i sat there just looking at that tomb stone for what must have been minutes,

my mind was filled with racing thoughts.

she gave a cough, it was a dry cough, one that was forced, trying to give me a hint to look over to her, she made a small wave for us to leave.

i nodded and we begun our trip out of the grave yard.

"MIS SASHA, i have to ask a few questions, lets get some tea, unless you don't want too"

she said walking with her hands behind her back like she was now a leader of a gang.

back to the street we took a left and headed towards the uptown part of the city, the houses were more beautiful then the ones down town near the ocean, the ones up this way was newer, taller and painted fresh.

the stone built streets seemed to have fewer broken stones and the sidewalks was in much better shape, seemed to be less children out playing and more quiet, it was a part of the city i have yet to explore, it all seemed so new to me, it was like i was entering SPARK STONE CITY for the first time, every sight was something new.

but one thing this part of the city lacked was animals, there was none pulling wagons or carts, in fact the streets was really clean, no crap!

we passed by many houses and shops, there was no carts or flee markets like downtown part of the city.

but high class shops to buy dresses fit for a princess, or shops for gold ear rings, eye catching shoes and even hats that would make a diamond look dull, and things like that.

passing by people on the street dressed like this was something that i was not use to.

i know you never judge a book by its cover but i couldt help but wonder if these people 

really was as rich as they made out to be.

finally we made it to a small tea shop, the bright colors the walls were painted made it stand out.

MILADA entered first as i followed,

stepping inside i felt like a rat in a rich man house.

everything was eye catching from the chairs to the mugs, everyone in the small place seemed to be dressed in the finest cloths anyone could buy.

standing by the counter we waited for someone to show us to the table,

finally only a few moments and a lady with black hair came to greet us,

she talked to MILADA like she was a friend, the woman then peeked pass MILADA

and stared at me.

"oh! sorry i forgot...this is SASHA she is a new recruit to the SSp,

i thought i show her around and come to the best tea house in the city"

MILADA giggled nudging the womans arm.

the lady smiled and she tried not to seem like she was staring at my scar, but i watched her eyes, they were not looking into mine.

i turned slightly to one side and just ignored what happened.

the lady then continued to chat with MILADA and soon she brought us to a table next to the window.

the lady then left to attend to the other customers.

we sat down to our table and MILADA raised her hand to get the waiters attention.

then a young man with a shaved face came to our side, MILADA ordered two drinks,

the waiter then left and in a moment returned with our tea.

the tea house was designed like a beautiful wealthy mans castle.

hardwood floors and bright varnish, the lamps was gold platted and the waiter was dressed nice, it was not a common tea house for the poor.

"don't worry about anything i will pay this time. you know i well feel bad that your leaving so early"

she said as she hugged the hot cup, warming her hands from the chilly morning, even if it was early summer it was still colder then normal today.

"yes i know, but we can finish those papers now, i just want to start my new life"

i said with a small smile that even if i tried i would't be able to stop from showing.

"none of my business but what about MIKE? have you told him that you were leaving to start your new life?"

she asked.

i paused for a moment not sure how to reply to that.

"not yet but it dont matter i dont think, i mean, it's not like were a thing or it's not like i like him. cough"

i stuttered like a shy girl.

MILADA gave a small evil glare, like she knew right where to attack her enemy, but in a playful way.

"well if i was you SASHA i would just get it over with, just tell him how you feel,

at least honey you would know"

she replied drinking the tea looking out the window, watching people has they pass along.

i took a deep swallow and played with my hair, thinking maybe i should do what she said.

i was about to blush as i started to think more and more about everything.

i needed to change the topic.

"wait what about DONALD, what is happening to him?"

i asked as i went from a shy girl playing with her hair to a guard folding her arms.

she leaned back in the chair and then laid the mug back to the table, taking a deep breath she replied.

"first we got to question him, get information and then he will be put on trial"

"when you say question him, you dont mean..." i said but ended it off to see if she knew what i was trying to say.

"yes we will torture him if it is needed, SASHA the world is a evil place and letting a man free of what he did would only allow more crime to start, soon even children will take over and do as they want"

she grumbled like she was upset from me saying the wrong words. 

"i cant tell you what you can or can not do, or what is right. but could i at least ask him a few questions, i mean we go way back" i said playing with my cup.

she jumped but still stayed in the chair, her eye brows lifted like she seen a monster.

"you know DONALD?, now sense you say that, it reminds me, back on the ship the two of you were nearly on the same team" she said putting her hand to her chin starting to think.

i quickly shook my head like a child would if they were mad their parent didnt understand them.

"no it is nothing like that or anything, that man saved me from when my village was burned, i forgot what he looked like and i never knew his name of the man who saved me all those years ago, but now that i seen him, i know it is him, my memory is dull but iam sure he is the one"

i replied.

"your village was burned? i thought you said you knew nothing about SPOT FORTRESS?" 

MILADA snapped.

"i dont know anything about SPOT FORTRESS, this was just a small village with a few hunters living there, it was where i was raised up for a part of my life, until the thiefs who attacked it took it away"

i said quickly.

"why would thiefs attack a small village, no money and the live stock in such small places are small and weak, they must have been desperate"

MILADA said.

"WHY IS IT EVERYONE SEEMS TO KNOW ABOUT SPOT FORTRESS BESIDES ME, WHY DON'T ANYONE TELL ME,ANYTHING,WHY"

i raised my voice sounding like a cross baby.

the people in the tea house stared to me and then as i knew i was now a spot light i 

sat lower into my seat. soon they returned back to their own business and chatter started again like i never caused a scene.

"give me a few days and i will get some info on what you want, right now i am swamped with work, first we got to get the castle ready for our foreign visit,

then we got more problems to solve with the rise in crime here in SPARK STONE CITY,

i need to do more paper work on the war up in the MOUNTAINS OF BLACK"

MILADA said in a tone like she was just tired of everything.

to me she seemed like a mother worn out from a super long day.

still seating in the seat i peek out the window that stood taller then most men,

the view of the busy street reminded me that life goes on no matter what, even if your part of it, as soon as you die then your part is done.

MILADA raised her hand to the waiter, soon he came over and she ordered a another cup.

"so i guess you are now the commander?" i asked.

she took a deep breath.

"sort of but not just yet, the authority he held is now mine, but there is paper work i need to do, folders and letters i have to send away to the other members of the SSp which is in lands far away, i have his authority but many people are just not informed about it" she said.

the table was smooth like a peace of ice.

built for a king it was made from oak as a slab of black marble rock was the top.

the more i looked around the tea house the more it seemed like i didnt belong in such a nice place.

"SASHA! you seem to have alot on your mind, is there something bothering you, or are you always like this" she asked.

"well like i said, i would like to know more about my past, where i came from who is my family, and my roots, but even the word SPOT FORTRESS seems to upset people"

i replied not looking at her.

"life is like tea, if you take it straight you might wonder why even drink tea,

for the taste is strong.

but if you add something sweet to the tea, the water is worst for you but you enjoy it more"

MILADA whispered, i turned to her and wondered to what she met by that.

"so what you mean, you siad get ready for someone, do we have some important person coming here?" i asked

"the prince of a far away land was invited by our king, unusual thing is the king is not here to attend. so his daughter, PRINCESS ZOBIA will be in his place, all SSp members are to attend the ball, for protection of course of the royal family"

MILADA said lifting her head like she proud to be invited to such a gathering.

"so sense iam leaving the SSp i guess i dont have to go? so you guys can go and

party the night away, i will prepare to leave and be gone in the morning, after all

the contract was to only capture DONALD and i helped do that"

i said looking out the window not bothering to look at her.

she then perked up, and leaned in.

"yes we will all enjoy our selfs, we did have a long time sense we let any hair down. i hope MIKE well have a good time, he is going to be the man of the hour that night"

MILADA said with the grin of a evil man making a plan.

i quickly turned to her.

"what do you mean?" i asked raising my eye brows, like she poked me in a soft spot.

she then turned cold and acted like she wouldt interested in me.

"well MIS SASHA i well get that paper work finished and we will have everything cleared up, you can be packed and be able to leave tomorrow"

she mumbled.

we both just sat quietly, i stared at my mug, i was pondering on the best thing to say,

here i was now free and able to do what i want, it was the whole point in everything,

but now sense i reached my goal, i noticed there was no prize.

when really i was back to where i started before i ever came to SPARK STONE CITY,

i felt like a mother about to have another child after the first one was grown up,

it was the same stuff all over but this time i knew the rules.

the end for now