Winds whistle through the moor in this land far way. Sunshine glistens on the running water moving freely, unencumbered. Butterflies move effortlessly through the air while animals search for their next meal.
A strict ruler governs the land; he demands respect and will not tolerate anything less. His wife is well behaved and does what she is told when she is told. Her mind belongs to him; she has no freedom and longs to escape her prison. He keeps her thoughts locked tight in the dark dreary dungeon along with the criminals and rift raft.
Her clothing is tailor made from the finest cloth. Her jewels are crafted and cut special for her. The halls are adorned with fine pieces of art from all over the world. However, with all this her heart is still sad and alone.
Daily life for her consists of making him happy and fulfilling his every desire. She can no longer live in this cold dark place. Evening is upon her when she decides it is time to delve into the world outside these shackled walls, and explore the opportunities life has to offer.
She walks cautiously down the hall, aware of every step and being certain she does not alarm her husband. Moving towards the back doors, she approaches the guard standing tall and confident while he protects the castle's walls. She looks at him and says, "My dear sir, it is my desire to go out these doors."
Peering at her with curiously he replied, "Your Highness, you know I cannot do that, the king will have my head!"
With sadness in her eyes she looks at him and replied, "I am the Queen and I order you to back away from the door! You do not seem to understand, if I am to spend one more night buried in my gloom I wish to no longer live."
"I never saw you this evening your Highness, never!" He replied, as he moves away from his post, allowing her to slip behind and out the door. She is overcome with excitement and disbelief as she moves into the darkness of the night. Looking back at him, she smiles with delight.
She tingles as the crisp night air clings to her skin. The night is black offering little light to guide her adventure. However, the moon is rising up into the clear sky to dance with the stars; she knows it will not be long until its gleaming beauty offers her a path to follow.
She continues to walk as the moonlight begins to light her way. She is frightened yet thrilled to be away from her repressive existence. For the first time in her life, she feels completely free of burden and the constant need to be perfect.
She sees a twinkle on the horizon; it appears to be that of a lantern burning bright. She walks quickly towards the light, as she approaches it becomes clear to her that she has stumbled upon a stable. The light is coming from within the stable.
She can hear the sounds of horses being brushed and cared for. Her curiosity is peeked and draws her closer. The door to the barn is open. She can see a shadow of a man moving his hands up and down gracefully while he brushes out a horse's mane. She must get in closer to see him.
Trees and shrubs surround the grounds. She walks slowly so the sound of breaking twigs does not give away her presence. Getting closer, she sees him. He is standing near the stable doors now looking out into the black; the lantern creates a warm deep twinkle in his eyes. He is tall with short dark hair and his body is very muscular. His appearance overcomes her and she is feels drunk with desire. Her body begins to shake as she crouches down into a shrub to conceal herself from his wondering eyes.