Writing Sample

<The following takes place in a regal bedroom befitting royalty. A girl lies on wide, well padded bed and a woman stands at her side. The girl is tattered with minor cuts, and the following occurs as she opens her eyes after a long rest.>

"Princess! You're awake!"

As I peeled back my eyes, I awakened to an unfamiliar setting. The wall tapestries looked old, but not aged, and this bed was one I've never seen before. "Where am I?"

My semi-rhetorical question quickly received a response from a woman standing beside my bed.

"After the attack, we thought it best to bring you to one of the guest rooms rather than upstairs. Is it not to your liking?"

"A-Attack?"

"Yes. A group of militants attempted your assassination earlier this afternoon."

"What? Who would want to do that?"

"We believe the Eastern Empire is responsible, and was after your life directly. General Dane is investigating further."

"I don't know what you're talking about. I think I'd remember if any of that happened."

The woman bowed slightly. "I have no doubt, your highness. However, the coca may be affecting your memory."

"Coca? Like cocaine??"

"Coc-caine? I've never heard such an elegant word, but we administered coca leaves to ease the pain of your wounds. The effects should wear off soon."

"Mmhm. By the way, you keep referring to me as 'princess' and 'your highness.' Who exactly to you think I am?"

The woman suddenly lowered herself and quickly dropped her gaze. "You are ____ d'____, crown princess of the four kingdoms, and rightful heir to the throne."

"Ha! This is great! I don't know where I am, I'm being attended to by a crazy person, and I'm probably high - a fantastic start to any day."