“Aisa.” A deep, calm voice called out. It was a name given to a child born to be loved and was directly translated as ‘beloved.’
Kuroi, the street beggar lifted her head to behold the man who had called out that name and was surprised to see that he was right in front of her. With a frown, she swiftly grabbed her empty beggar’s cup as though he would take it from her.
“What do you want from me? Who is Aisa? If this is a trick to get my cup, I shall not give it. I have permission to beg on these streets, and this cup is my only proof.” She rose and backed away from him.
“Aisa,” the man called again, and Kuroi gazed at him as though he was beside himself.
“I do not know why you call me by that name, but I shall tell you, that my name is Kuroi. Although I cannot recall how that name came about, I believe it is because of the darkness of my skin. You see, I do not recall a lot of things from my past, but that is of no significance. If you wish to give me a coin, please do so. If you do not, then be kind enough to take your leave so that I may receive from others who shall take pity on me.”
“Your Highness, we must leave at once. I do not know why it is you must speak to such a wretched person.” Another man who stood beside the strange man stated. His harsh tone was one Kuroi had become accustomed to, given her lowly status. She was however surprised at the way he addressed the man before her. It was obvious from how he was attired that he was a nobleman, which made him even more suspicious, as noblemen never gave kindness for free.
His Highness ignored his companion and instead stretched out his hand to her. “Come with me, Aisa. You do not belong here.”
“You must think I was born yesterday to fall for your tricks. I may not recall when I was born, but I have been on this street long enough to know your wicked intentions towards a poor girl like me.” She would have said more, but the man’s companion yelled out in anger.
“How dare you accuse the Crown Prince of having wicked intentions towards you, a lowly beggar. You must be beside yourself and…”
“Hush Petros. You shall not speak to her in that manner.” The said prince ordered in a calm rebuke and Kuroi was astounded by their exchange.
“Are… are you truly the crown prince of Salem, Prince Zova?” She questioned shakily, a feeling of foreboding washing over her. She recalled the warnings of Zebub, her benefactor, on how the royals wished to see people like her locked away forever. “Have you come to seize and lock me away in the dungeons?”
“I have no desire to see you in a dungeon, nor do I wish to seize you at all. If you trust and follow me, I shall tell you all about yourself. You must believe that I have no intention to harm you, but only to restore you to your rightful place beside me.”
Kuroi stared sceptically at his hand for a moment, weighing her options. She had little to lose in following him, even if it were a trap, but if what he said was true, there was much to gain. She put her scrawny dark hand in his and allowed herself to be led to the luxurious royal carriage.
THE WRITTEN FAITH 
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