For the Love of War

Part One

The sun’s rays shone warmly on my face and arms. They strongly suggested rest but I fought it. I had homework to finish.

I was lying on the grass, out of reach and out of sight of my home.

My book was held up just above my belly. I had been out side for an hour and I haven’t gotten past the third chapter.

“Eva Clio, or Clio, is one of the most puzzling historic mysteries.” I read from my book, Clio’s Curse. “She married King Aloysius the Third then was executed on numerous charges. In her diary, she boasts only her affair with Aloysius’ most trusted general, Marcellus. The rest are unknown but are believed to be: mutiny, refused to have more then one child, and witchcraft.”

Clio was a very important woman before I was born—before my grandparents were born. She was witty, mysterious, and gregarious. My mother said she reminded me of Clio, she said that I’m as wild as an untamed horse.

My family is middle class or Abrae, but we’re also practicing Magicians. We perform magic.

That’s okay to the royal government or Regia. As long as we’re not against the Regia’s religion, Christianity, then we’re not labeled as witches.

My eyes are starting to droop by now and the grass feels cushy under my head.

Clio’s Curse rests across my chest and my eyelids close slowly. I slumber for a while. I dream about Clio, a wild horse no one could tame. Then I turn into Clio, I become a beautiful Regia queen with a child and a wonderful king for a husband.

I don’t understand though—why am I running away? It’s a wonderful extravagant life.

A small bundle of cloth is held to my chest and I hold it protectively.

My face only shows fear and my eyes pray to the Lord that my newborn and I will make it to a far away village safely.

Just as my subconscious was trying to make sense of it all I heard screams coming from the cottage.

And not playful, laughing screams I normally hear from my younger and older siblings, these were blood curling screams. My family was in danger.