Tears Are A Color

Introductions - Imani I’m Imani, daughter of Amir and Kiara. My dad is the Crown Mage of Rolice, and my mom is the headmistress. At sixteen, I’m training to be a member of the Crown Guard, an elite group of ten soldiers sworn to protect the kingdom. Not everyone thinks this is a good idea—especially my parents. Chapter 1 - Haze “Imani!” my mom calls. “Come down!”, “Okay!” I yell back, dashing down the hall. I love my parents. My dad works as the Crown Mage, mastering magic to help our people, while my mom is second in command to King Macron. They inspire me, and I want to be like them—strong and impactful. “Imani, your dad and I have been talking... we really don’t think you should train so hard.” “Why?” I ask, confusion washing over me. “Sweetie, the Crown Guard is a very strict group. They don’t just let anyone in…” I scoff, disbelief bubbling inside me. “Mom, really? I’ve perfected almost every attack and maneuver!” “That’s amazing, but…” Dad’s expression shifts, his brow furrowing. “The Crown Guard is an all-male organization.” I stop, stunned. After two and a half years of intense training, I’m just now realizing this glaring truth. “Wait, what?! No!” The world spins, and everything goes black. Chapter 2 - Nothing When I wake up, my parents hover above me, worry etched in their features. “Imani, can you hear me?” my mother asks softly. “What happened?” I manage to whisper. “You fainted,” Dad replies, concern lacing his voice. “It’s a lot to take in.” Anger bubbles up inside me, threatening to overflow. “Why didn’t you tell me sooner? I’ve trained as if I could actually join them, and now I find out I’m not allowed?” My heart races with frustration. I can sense their fear—fear of my challenge to long-held boundaries. But I refuse to let anyone dictate my path, not even the Crown Guard. Chapter 3 - Queen’s Letter The previous day's revelation loomed over me, suffocating my dreams of joining the Crown Guard. Years of training felt meaningless, and I locked myself in my room, consumed by anger and disappointment. The next morning, I found my mother in tears, my father trying to comfort her. Panic surged through me as I wanted to know what had happened. Dad handed me a letter with the royal seal, dread washing over me as I read aloud. “Dear Amir and Kiara Winston, I am sorry to write to you at this time. An assassination attempt struck last night, and the king is dead... Your daughter, Imani Winston, will be taken and fitted for action. Please say your final goodbyes.” - Dirse, Queen of Rolice My heart raced as the reality set in. The Crown Guard, my once-dreamed future, now felt like a prison. But I couldn’t let fear overwhelm me. “I’ll protect you! I promise!,” I declared, determination burning within me. “We will fight this together.” Dad's grip on my shoulder reassured me, while my mom’s eyes reflected unwavering support. This moment would define me, fueling my resolve. I am Imani Winston, Daughter of Amir and Kaira Winston, I’ll carve my own path, no matter the cost. Chapter 4 - Crown Guard Taking a deep breath, I embrace my fate for my family’s sake. Stepping into the Crown Guard transforms me. The first month is a whirlwind of drills and routines, but I excel beyond my wildest dreams. Each dawn, I awaken with unwavering determination. My male counterparts initially doubt me, but I wield my sword with precision and master techniques that surprise even the seasoned soldiers. I become agile and quick, outmaneuvering opponents with a newfound confidence. The instructors push me harder, and I thrive on the challenge, turning my bruises into badges of honor. As I earn their respect, a fire ignites within me. I miss my family deeply, but with each drill, I carve out my identity as a formidable warrior destined to protect my kingdom. I’ll show everyone that I belong—strength is my essence. Chapter 5 - My Letter? Three months after the king’s assassination, four new teens are recruited, and we’re finally recovering. When I return home for Thanksgiving, my parents greet me with an unsettling cheerfulness. I sense something’s off, like a shadow lurking beneath their smiles. After dinner, while they tend to chores, I can’t shake my unease and decide to investigate. I check the drawers and find another letter—not addressed to them, but to me! Chapter 6 - War Is Upon Us As I unfold the letter, my heart races. “Imani,” it begins, the ink smudged as if hastily written. “The kingdom is in turmoil. The assassination of King Macron is just the beginning; a group called ‘Death is Red’ is gaining power. Your training in the Crown Guard will soon be tested. I need your strength and cunning. You are crucial to our survival.” A mix of pride and dread surges through me as I read about a covert operation to root out this organization, and the stakes are higher than ever. The letter concludes with a simple plea: “Prepare yourself. War is coming.” Stepping outside, I see my mother tending to her flowers, her face weary. This isn’t just about me; it’s about protecting our kingdom. The Crown Guard is needed, and I won’t shy away from my destiny. I’m ready to fight for my family and all of Rolice. Chapter 7 - “Death Is Red” After accepting my task, I return to my quarters inside the castle. The Crown Guard occupies an entire section, with training rooms, dining halls, and everything we need to prepare for battle. We gather for an “Assembly,” which signals that it’s time to discuss our mission. As we sit in the dimly lit room, tension fills the air, and the gravity of our situation weighs heavily on me. Queen Dirse stands before us, her voice firm as she repeats, “We cannot risk the enemy intercepting our plans. No outside communication is allowed.” I remind myself that I’m seventeen; I don’t need my parents. We prepare for war. I return to my quarters, still buzzing from the day’s discussions, when I find a letter waiting for me. “To Imani, A Crown Guard,” it reads. I open it, heart racing, but my breath catches in my throat as I read the chilling words: “We have your parents.” I drop the letter, and despair washes over me. No, I tell myself. I can’t break down now. Chapter 8 - Ransom Panic grips me as I read the chilling words: “We have your parents,” and the weight of their lives ignites a fire within me. I can’t let them suffer for my choices, so I frantically pace my small room, thoughts spiraling as I wonder what they want and how to respond. Gathering my resolve, I know I must go to Queen Dirse; her understanding of the situation is paramount. My heart pounds as I rush through the familiar castle halls, greeted by the concerned expressions of the guards. When I reach her door, I steady myself and knock. “Enter,” she commands, and as I step inside, I see her poring over scrolls and maps, a surprise flickering in her eyes when she looks up. “Imani, what is it?” I stammer, “Your Majesty, I received a letter… They have my parents.” Her expression hardens, sending a chill down my spine, and I ask, “What do we do?” With narrowed eyes, she replies, “We’ll mount a rescue operation, but it will require discretion. You must focus on your training and trust that we’ll bring them back safely.” As I leave her chambers, the weight of the world presses down on me, yet a flicker of hope ignites within. I’m now part of the Crown Guard, and I will fight tooth and nail to protect my family and my home. War is upon us, but I won’t let fear dictate my actions; I will rise to the challenge, no matter the cost. Chapter 9 - Operation Pay Back It’s mission night, and tension fills the air. “You five are chosen to rescue Amir and Kiara Winston,” Queen Dirse announces. “We know little about ‘Death Is Red’; they’ve taken civilians for ransom.” I glance at Jalen, the soldier I secretly admire. I tell myself “Stay focused! You can flirt with Jalen later!” “My focus has to be on my parents’ safety.” We gather around a map as Dirse marks their lair. “We’ll move at midnight,” she instructs. The plan solidifies, and we slip into the darkness, navigating the forest toward the compound. With precision, we take down guards and move through dark corridors. Finally, we find my parents, bruised but alive. “Imani!” my mom cries. I embrace them, but alarms sound. “We need to move!” Caleb urges. Flames begin to engulf the hideout as we escape into the forest. Just when we think we’re safe, a member of “Death Is Red” appears, eyes blazing. “Stay close!” I shout, engaging in battle to protect my family. An explosion knocks me off balance, I feel a sharp pain. “FUCK” I yell. I think to myself “Did I really just pull a hamstring?” I think about returning to the group but an urge of revenge starts to fuel up inside me . Chapter 10 - Should I Have? I return inside to take my revenge on the organization that took my family from me. What I didn't tell anyone was that I had brought an explosive device. I found the heart, set the bomb and escaped. 68 seconds later; BOOM! Everything within a 10 mile radius was incinerated; Including some houses of innocent civilians. I didn't care at the time. I was focused on taking from those that took from me. We met back up at Fort Katolin; a fort constructed for out-of-territory missions. “Mission Success” Dirse says, a little joy seeping into her voice. We all smile, but Jalen’s is just majestic! We ride back home on horses and I can't help but feel a little guilt. Should I have finished off the lives of those who weren't involved? This thought plaques my mind for the entire journey home. Chapter 11 - Tears Are A Color We returned home and I learned a truth that would stain me forever. After my mother and father were settled back in she told me. “Amira…” she coughs, her voice weak. I quickly comfort her. “Mom, are you ok?” “Amira,” she continues, “I have been poisoned, my days are numbered.” I break down. Scream, Cry, and Morn. “NO!” I cry, “Mom!” Dad quietly morns too. Hours later, The air in the room was thick with grief. As I watched her fight against the poison, each shallow breath felt like a countdown. I had saved her from captivity, but I couldn’t save her from this cruel fate. Days passed in a blur until, one fateful night, she took her last breath. The moment her light faded, an emptiness consumed me. At her funeral, surrounded by sorrow, I whispered promises to honor her memory. In the days that followed, I channeled my grief into my training with the Crown Guard. Each drill became an act of defiance against the darkness that had stolen her from me. I would not let her spirit fade; I would let it fuel my resolve. Standing at dawn, I realized that tears were a color woven into our lives. A color all of us understand and surrender too. I am Imani Winston, daughter of Kiara Winston. 18 year old female crown guard of Rolice. The fight was far from over, and I would stand fierce and unyielding, carrying her memory like a shield. Chapter 12 - Aftermath The funeral was over, but I felt frozen in that moment. “Imani?” Jalen knocked softly. “Can I come in?” I nodded as he entered. “How are you holding up?” “Fine,” I lied, my voice shaky. “I know it’s tough…” he began, but I interrupted, anger rising. “Tough? I took lives to save my parents, and now my mom is gone! What if I’ve become the monster?” “You did what you had to do to protect your family,” Jalen said, concern in his eyes. “But at what cost?” I cried, tears welling. “I should have fought harder to save her from the poison.” “You’re not alone. We all feel this pain,” he reassured me. “You shouldn’t bear this burden alone.” “I can’t stop thinking about it!” I sobbed. “I see her face fading away.” “Maybe you should talk to someone. Queen Dirse has counselors. It takes courage to face your pain.” I hesitated, feeling weak. The Crown Guard was supposed to be strong, and I was meant to be their hope. Inside, I felt like I was breaking. In the silence, Jalen stepped closer. “Imani, you’re stronger than you know.” “I just wish I could feel whole again,” I admitted. He brushed a strand of hair behind my ear. “You’re not alone. I’m here for you.” Our eyes locked, and in that moment, I felt a spark. I leaned in, and Jalen met me halfway. Our lips touched gently, and all the pain melted away. It felt right—like a promise that we could face whatever came next together. Even in my grief, I realized there was hope for healing, and perhaps, love. Chapter 13 - Choice To Make Weeks turned into months, Months turned into years, and I felt the weight of reality pressing down on me. Training with the Crown Guard became both a refuge and a painful reminder of my loss. Yet, Jalen was always by my side. One evening, after a grueling session, I gazed at the sunset. “I’m caught between my duty and my feelings for you,” I admit. “You don’t have to choose,” Jalen comforts me. “We can find a way to do both.” “But what if I fail?” Anxiety crept in, tightening it’s grip on me. “Then don’t. We’re stronger than that,” he urged. I took a deep breath, his words resonating within me. “You’re right. I want to fight for my kingdom and build a life with you.” As we stood in the light, I felt a new sense of purpose. Chapter 14 - Balance With resolve, I return to training, each swing of my sword fueled by determination. Jalen remained my anchor, encouraging me to push my limits. After an intense training session, I told Jalen, “We need to train together more. If we’re going to protect this kingdom, we need to be at our best.” “Agreed, but we also need downtime,” Jalen grinned. I laugh. “Let’s make time for both—training and fun.” I chuckle and wrap my arms around his neck, he moves his hands lower. We engage in the kiss I've been waiting for. His soft, coily, jet black hair. The feeling of his hands on my lower back. “I love you babe.” I announce, “I love you too.”. Chapter 15 - Love Again Embracing our feelings for each other made training into a love-filled experience. As we pushed each other to our limits, laughter mingled with clashing swords, and love infused every movement. After a year, the Crown Guard gathered for a special “Assembly.” Queen Dirse entered, glowing as she announced, “I have met the love of my life.” Her affection for Jeremiah was displayed with us all, and they shared a kiss. Jalen and I exchanged a glance, our love mirrored in theirs. “The wedding will be in two weeks,” Dirse continued, excitement rippling through the room. In the days leading up to the celebration, our training was filled with anticipation, and we eagerly helped with preparations, weaving our love into every detail. Chapter 16 - Again?! Today is Dirse and Jerimah’s Wedding Day. Me and Jalen are preparing for the special occasion. As Dirse requested I’ll wear my custom-made gown and Jalen will wear a custom made silver suit. As we arrive, we see Dirse and Jeremiah exchange kisses and loving embraces, they finally notice us. “Oh, hi,” Dirse blushes. “Didn't see you there.” Me and Jalen smile as we take our seats. The wedding begins and her brother; Devon, walks her down the aisle. As the priest starts with opening remarks, Jalen tells me he’s gonna head to the restroom. I think nothing of it at the time. The wedding ends and Jalen still hasn't came back. Now I start to panic, I check the restrooms, and all the other rooms; Nothing. After the wedding, I ask the Queen “ Have you seen Jalen?” “No, I haven't”. “Fuck!” I tell myself, ”Jalen, where are you?!” As I return home, I see a note on the table. I open it hoping it wasn't what I thought it was. “We have Jalen.” Chapter 17 - No Fucking Way As I reread the words one by one, tears well up in my eyes. “Jalen. Babe. Why?!”. “I need you. You were the one thing still keeping me together.” I fall to my knees and cry. I cry for hours. I finally gather the courage to get up and I think to myself “Dad has to know what to do. He's been through this before.” I arrive at dad’s house and his house looks like a tornado rampaged through it. “Dad?” I say in a low voice. “Dad, Hello?” I look around the house only to find more mess. I finally go to his bedroom and I find another letter. “At this point, nothing worse could happen that hasn't already happened.” I tell myself. I open the letter. “Imani Winson, we have taken you father and fiance captive. You can have one back, the other tortured. The choice is yours.” I break down in tears. I can't believe what was happening. I had to choose between the love of my life and my care-giver. I laugh maniacally “There’s no fucking way this shit is happening to me!” I cry, my voice filled with rage. “Why me?!” I continue like this for the rest of the day. By the next morning, I’ve gotten over my pain and have made a decision. I'll save both. Chapter 18 - Jalen Now, Dad Later, I Promise As morning approaches, determination fills me. Jalen and Dad are in danger, and I won’t let despair control me. I head for the training grounds, where my fellow Crown Guards gather for morning drills. “Caleb, I need your help. They’ve taken Jalen and my father. We need to plan a rescue.” Caleb’s eyes widen. “We won’t let them take anyone else from us.” We quickly make a plan, splitting into teams. Hours pass in a blur, and as the sun sets, we prepare. Caleb shares that “Death Is Red” has been spotted at an abandoned hotel 10 miles outside the city. “That’s where we’ll go,” I say, adrenaline coursing through me. Under the cover of night, we secretly approach the hotel. The area is heavily guarded, we tactically knockout the guards and slip inside. I find my father tied up and bruised, and Jalen unconscious nearby. “Jalen!” I whisper, rushing to him. My father wakes. “Imani, what are you doing here?” “I’m here to save you!” As I untie my father and check on Jalen, we hear footsteps. “Go! I’ll hold them off!” my father urges. “No!” I protest. “Save Jalen!” he presses, and I nod reluctantly. “I’ll be back I promise.” Realizing he’s right. I escape into the night, supporting Jalen as we stumble through the woods. He stirs, his eyes fluttering open. “Imani…” “I’m here,” I say, relief filling me, appreciative that he’s woke up. As we reach safety, I collapse. “Stay with me.” He is able to smile. “I knew you’d come.” With the sounds of battle fading behind us, I realize the fight with “Death Is Red” is far from over. I know with love fueling me, I won’t give in. “I need to go back for my Dad.” I tell Jalen. “Ok, I'll be fine, go ahead.” Jalen comforts me. I kiss him “Love you babe.” “Love you too.”. I ride back to find the battle still in full swing. “Imani! Go Save Amir!” Dirse yells, “Ok!” I yell back determined. I sprint inside just in time to save him. “Dad! Are you ok?”. He has bruises, cuts, burns, and scars. “I’m fine.” Dad grunts as I help him up. “Let's get out of here”. I lift him and carry him around my shoulders and we make it outside. “Your Majesty, I have him!” I inform her. “Then that's our cue. Caleb, Jalen, Quince, Camden, and Tristan, Lets go!” Dirse helps me lift dad into the carriage. “Thanks”, “Anytime” she reassures, smiling. “Hey! They’re getting away!” A guard of “Death Is Red” yells. Their Archers began to shoot arrows. “GO, GO, GO!” Dirse demands. After arriving back home, I breathe heavily, “Goddamn”, “I can't believe we made it out alive.”. “We are a lucky few.” Dirse chuckles. Chapter 19 - 5 Years After saving Jalen, our bond deepened. 5 years had passed since we first met and confessed our love. Having been together for three years and engaged for two. “I want to build a life with you,” I said, looking up into his eyes, the warmth of his presence wrapping around me like a soft blanket. “I think it’s time we consider marriage, my love.” He smiled, wrapping his arms around my waist, pulling me closer. As he leaned in, our lips met in a gentle kiss that ignited a flutter in my heart. “I’m ready. Are you?” A smile spread across my face as my excitement showed. “I think this calls for a celebration,” Jalen said with a playful glint in his eyes. Later that day, Jalen gathered friends, family, and members of the Crown Guard for an “Announcement Party.” The atmosphere was filled with laughter and anticipation. About an hour in, Jalen stood up and called for silence. The room hushed. “Today, I want to share not just our love, but our commitment to each other,” he declared, his voice filled with enthusiasm. “Imani Winston, will you marry me?” Cheers and applause erupted, a wave of joy washing over us. My heart swelled with happiness. “Yes! A thousand times, yes!” I shouted, tears of joy streaming down my cheeks as I rushed into his arms. He lifted me off the ground, spinning me around as laughter and cheers filled the air. “Let’s raise a glass to love, commitment, and our future!” Jalen called out, and glasses clinked throughout the room in celebration. In that moment, surrounded by our loved ones, I felt a certainty, we were ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead, together. Chapter 20 - Goodbyes The wedding day dawned bright, yet a bittersweet ache filled my heart. As I adjusted my gown, I longed for my mother’s presence beside me. Walking down the aisle, I felt her absence, but Jalen’s loving gaze grounded me. Our vows echoed in the warm air, each promise binding us closer together. “With you, I am whole,” I declared, tears shimmering as we shared our first kiss as husband and wife. The celebration was filled with laughter, but in a quiet moment outside, I whispered to the stars, “Mom, I wish you were here.” I could almost hear her laughter in the breeze. Jalen found me, wrapping me in his warmth. “I’m right here with you,” he said, and I felt the weight of the past lighten. As we danced under the stars, I understood that tears are a color, the one that enriches our journey. Together, we would face whatever storms lay ahead, hand in hand. I was Imani Winston, daughter of Amir and Kiara, and now, a wife. With love as my guide, I was ready for my future.