He was behind a large metal gate with thick bars, unable to escape. She transformed in front of the man’s cell, glaring down at him as he sat in a heap on the floor.

“You are going to tell me why you are here. And be quick about it.”

The man looked up at her and scoffed before standing up and walking over to the bars of his cell. “I have no business telling you why I am here. I was sworn to secrecy for the time being.”

“I heard you had gone through my room looking for something. It must be important to have torn it apart like that.” She looked up at him now, as he was taller than she.

“Like I said, I cannot tell you. But I do not mean any harm to you. I heard there was a princess in this kingdom though I did not think you would be considered such, knowing your heritage. Besides, you look so much different than before. I did not recognize you.” His gaze became gentle, much different than it was before.

“Wait, you...know what I am?” She was surprised. And suspicious. “How could you?”

“Solara, I know much about you. I am no stranger.” He smiled. “You will know in due time how I know of you. For now, I must bid you adieu.” The man suddenly changed into a small rat and got out of his cell. He rushed up the stairs and exited the chambers. Solara thought it best to do the same with herself. She turned back into a cat and left, heading up to her bedroom. She turned back and laid back on her bed, letting out a sigh. What an eventful night… The way he left, had he been waiting for her to come and speak to him? He could have left whenever he pleased…

A knock came at her door. “Princess! Are you alright?” It must have been one of the guards. She got up from the bed and opened the door.

“Yes, I am fine. Why? Is something the matter?” She played dumb. It was obvious why he was here.

“The prisoner escaped. I wanted to check on you and make sure he did not come after you again.”

She smiled softly. “Thank you, but I am just fine.”

“Just doing my job. I will stand watch and make sure he does not enter your chambers.” He nodded and stood off to the side, sword in hand.”

“It is much appreciated.” She shut the door again and went to her vanity mirror. She muttered a spell and her hair came down from the braid. Looking outside her window, she could see that it was almost dinner time. She had lost her appetite for the evening… Too many thing happened in one day and her head was a mess. How did this man know her? Had they met? Was he a witch as well? That last one was obvious. He had transformed in front of her very eyes.

Calling it a day, she undressed herself and put on her sleepwear. She laid down on her bed and covered up, soon drifting off into a deep slumber.