Another secret sneak out of the Sultan's palace proved fatal for the princess. As she dashed between the market stalls, she did not notice that she was being followed. "Belle, buy dates!" shouts a vendor and the princess turns round at the loud sound, and then strong hands grab her and then only darkness follows.

The bright scents of spices and the sound of sand break through the darkness that has come. She opens her eyes and sees the tent canopy above her. "Pearl Princess..." comes a low male voice. When she turns her head, she sees a man in dark robes. His raven wing black eyes stare straight at her.