Lost Horizon (Sample)

Prologue

Sanctuary has everything a human needs. To look for more is simply a suicidal thought poisoning the mind.

This was the reality of many. An unspoken fact among society looming over the heads of the population. It was set down by King Jacob. For a man like him, searching beyond the safety of Sanctuary's walls was preposterous. He'd hoped they'd see his line of reasoning but to no avail.

Towering above every living soul was a transparent glass wall in the shape of a dome. It separated humanity from the horrors of the outside. Nobody questioned it. Nobody dared to complain in public. What lied beyond was sand and sand only. Storms of gold spraying as far as human eyes could possibly see. A wasteland filled with death and forgotten dreams. It was a realm unfit for their kind.

Regardless, these creatures were named humans. Eventually, curiosity consumed specific individuals and urged them to venture into the unknown. They saw no problem leaving Sanctuary. No problem dying in an endless desert. What did they seek? Perhaps a ticket to a better life? How imbecilic. Nothing existed in this world. Not anymore. As such, the semblance of hope faded and the flame of determination sizzled to a feeble spark. Sanctuary was a society of unmotivated mortals.

Yet her hope remained.

The floating vehicle sluggishly hovered down the street. Her guardian and royal advisor sat next to her silently, a gargoyle dressed in a suit. Sighing, she gazed out the stallion's window, sky-blue eyes observing curiously. The poverty-stricken Ensett District was a dreadful sight to witness.

Wooden houses stood on both sides of the cracked street as people, malnourished and defeated, limped aimlessly wearing ragged and torn clothing. Truly they lived lives she knew not. Whenever she saw the state of the poorer districts she couldn't fight the conception that her father, the current king, failed at ascertaining his citizens' well-being. Surely more could be done.

"Something troubling you, Princess Alice?" her protector finally inquired, noticing the girl's frown. Lucas had served her family for as long as she remembered. He was a guardian to be depended on. The navy blue colored uniform he wore served to hide the well-built physique underneath. Neatly kempt blonde hair sat atop his head while a pair of lime green eyes stared concernedly.

"How should I put this," she replied, waving her hand. "When I said I wished to visit the walls I was under the impression I could go by myself. Having you escort me makes me feel as if I'm weak. Not to mention it's a huge waste of resources."

"The king would never allow it, you know this."

She bowed her head. "Of course,"

"Keep in mind, princess, we aren't in the luxurious Eris or Phana districts. We're somewhere filled to the brim with criminals, thieves, and low-lives. As your protector, I must ensure your safety." His hardened gaze targeted the window. "You're the rightful heir to the throne, Sanctuary's next leader. Do you know what would happen should any harm befall you?"

"Bad things?"

"Indeed," Lucas confirmed grimly. "For starters, Sanctuary would be without a crown, someone to establish laws and-"

"Is that really so terrible?" Alice cut him off. "The riots in the lower districts are happening for a reason. People are angry at my father. If there wasn't a king or ruler then would it not be better for everyone?"

Oh, the sweet innocence of a child. Lucas couldn't directly fault her for coming to such a conclusion. His princess was highly analytical for her young age. "Princess," he started, sliding closer to the girl. "It'll be much easier for you to understand if I tell you this first: A nation without rule is bound for failure. Should no-one act as leader Sanctuary would inevitably plunge into chaos."