Dream

Well, my first ever original story here at aff.net
Let me know what you think.
I\'ll be getting back to my YGO, Trigun and GW fics eventually...

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For those of you who seek to call me a great beauty, take heed. I’m not, by Lusitanian standards, anything special. Sure, as you barbarians like to say, my features are carved from the finest porcelain. My hair is the blue/black-spun velvet of the night sky. My eyes sparkle like the most precious of your ‘emeralds’. My lips are the colour of spilt blood on crisp, white snow.
But I\'m no poet. These words are taken directly from a barbarian’s mouth.

Oh, forgive me. You would know the barbarians as those inhabitants of the planet Earth. But I\'m not an alien by any means. Oh, no, no, no, no. We Lusitanian\'s are what you call angels. But we are not god’s creatures. To tell you the truth, there is no god. We started out as beings of pure thought, and the power of our thoughts created what you see today. The incredible beauty, the perfect race.

We exist wherever we wish to. But as of late, we are becoming more and more mortal. Astral travel is becoming difficult, and rather painful. Which brings me to my point.

On Lusitania, which is our world that exists on a different plane to that of Earth, the elders are holding a conference. We as a nation are concerned about our future. So, we are meeting with Earth to see if we might co exist with the native savages and I, Zyphere, daughter of the Lusitanian Emperor, am running late.

The view from my window could move any grown man to tears. I sat gazing out upon my city. Since my father is the emperor, I have to reside in the presidential palace with him and my three other sisters Zyznril, Zhallwan and Zasette. I am the youngest. I swear my father hates us, it’s no secret he wanted a son but my mother was unable to provide one for him. My mother died when I was very young, about six or so, which is infancy by our standards. We are immortal. It is not our wish to die, so the power of our thoughts allows us to live forever. We can, however, be killed. The more mortal we become, the more susceptible we are to disease, infection and the more vulnerable we are to poisons and naked steel.

I narrowed my green eyes against the glare of the afternoon sun. Lusitania is a beautiful city, but it is so beautiful that it borders on garishness. It appears I am the only one to think so. Though my best friend Karestian shares a lot of my opinions. The buildings themselves shine with a mother of pearl sheen; the ornate rooves are tiled in gold. Everywhere it’s inhabitants scurry around wearing gaudy jewel encrusted, flowing clothes.

The sun reflecting off the rooves is blinding. Of course, it never rains here. It is the perfect weather all of the time. What I wouldn’t give to be stranded in a decent thunderstorm.

I sighed and turned away from the window, my glossy black hair forming a kind of veil as I rose to stand before my jewelled mirror. I gazed at my reflection. My vibrant emerald eyes peered back at me from behind a curtain of wavy black hair. I blinked, and allowed my gaze to travel down my face, past my full red lips and shockingly pale complexion, past my gracefully curved neck to my thin shoulders and equally slender arms. I tilted my head back, allowing my hair to cascade down my back. I put my shoulders back and leaned in toward the mirror, enthralled by the slight swell of my breasts against the plain white of my nightgown. I looked to my tiny waist, and finely shaped legs.

I then turned away from the mirror, disgusted with my appearance. The life of a Lusitanian noblewoman is one of servitude, boredom and abstinence. My father would murder me if I tarnished myself before he could sell me into marriage. I returned to the window and squinted out on the city. There was a party making it’s way toward the palace gates. I didn’t recognize the standard that fluttered in the pleasant breeze above them, and I couldn’t make out any of the people’s faces.

I didn’t look up as my door was opened, nor reply as my name was softly called. I had to give in finally when my arm was grasped and I was whirled around.

“Zyphere, you must get dressed, our guests have arrived.” my maid Arachnida pleaded in her soft voice.

“Arachnida....” I whined, falling back onto my sickeningly soft bed.

“Come now mistress...” Arachnida replied, gently pulling me to my feet.

She deftly pulled my nightgown up over my head and folded it neatly, placing it on my bed. I crossed my arms and stood there naked, a disapproving look on my face. Arachnida chuckled, covering her thin-lipped mouth with one bronzed hand. Her dark coal eyes glittered with amusement.

“Will you go like this to your marriage bed?” she asked, mistaking my impatience for modesty.

“Never Arachnida. I’ll go as willing as a courtesan of L’Amoursun to any mans bed. Now, if you’re done laughing at me I’d like to get dressed.” I snapped.

Arachnida took a step backward and placed a hand on her chest as though I\'d wounded her. Her eyes were widened and she bit her lip. To piss me off was certain death if my father found out.

“Oh come now Arachnida. Good, sweet, kind Arachnida, forgive my venomous words. I am impatient to meet our new guests...” I said softly.

She smiled slightly but regained her composure.

“At once my lady.” she stated and hurried over to a wardrobe carved from ivory and overlaid with gold leaf.
It was the ugliest thing I had ever seen. Arachnida laid out on my bed a flimsy dress of pastel green, a thick black belt, thigh high pastel green stockings that had black bows up the top and a pair of high-heeled black court shoes. The ugliest shoes in the world, with curlings ans and ridiculously high, thin heels. The height of fashion here in Lusitania. Give me a pair of carpenter’s boots any day.

The dress slid on over my head. I pulled it down over my breasts and stomach. It barely covered my backside. It was tight in the sleeves then flared out over my hands, it was tight across my chest and back then flared out a little at the bottom. I pulled the stockings on and tied the black ribbons at the top. I then squashed my feet into the horrific court shoes and wobbled over to the mirror. In short, I looked ridiculous.

The dress was small and very revealing. When Arachnida clipped the belt around my waist it shrunk three sizes and my breasts gained a size. I stifled a laugh as I gazed at myself. I was ordered to take a seat as Arachnida started fussing with my hair. She pulled most of it up into a high ponytail, then clipped random strands all over the place. The rest fell down my back in small waves. My fringe was left out to frame my face. The height of fashion.

“You have such a lovely complexion my lady...” Arachnida gushed, running her hand softly down my cheek.

I looked in the mirror. I was as white as a ghost, my green eyes were eerily bright and my lips too red, as though I\'d just feasted on the blood of the living and missed a few drops. Arachnida outlined my eyes with a thin kohl pencil and brushed a little gloss onto my lips.

“There you are mistress. Your father awaits you in the courthouse.” Arachnida stated, stepping back and admiring her handiwork.
I got to my feet and rushed out of the room without a backward glance. I didn’t care that I looked like a fool, I was going outside. The courthouse was a golden monstrosity on the other side of town. I stopped at the gates of the palace, took a deep breath, and then stepped out onto the street. Everywhere I went heads turned. I could hear them whisper about my beauty, my lovely clothes, my father, and my youth... It was never-ending.

I deftly stepped out of the way of a passing group of youths on their way from one tavern to the next. I followed a cobbled side street, cast in shadow and slipped on the uneven stones in the ghastly court shoes. I landed unceremoniously on the hard ground.
Momentarily stunned, I didn’t move.

“My, my. Aren’t you a pretty little one...” a wavering voice called from the shadows of an open doorway in front of me.
I rose to my knees and peered into the inky blackness. A thin old crone shuffled out of the doorway and made her way to my side. Her hair was lank and white/grey, she wore an old stained lavender dress that had a high neck, long sleeves and trailed on the ground. But her dark eyes were alert and watchful, and her grip when she helped me to my feet was deceptively strong. I pulled my hand away slowly.

“Forgive me, but I must be on my way. My father...”

“Yes of course dear. It’s not wise to keep the emperor waiting. I must warn you though, at the meeting you are hurrying to, you must be careful. A great threat awaits you there.” the old woman replied.

I nodded my thanks, a little shaken and completed my journey to the courthouse. I was allowed in at a glance and strode into the main audience chamber.

“Her royal highness, Mistress Zyphere...” the herald called, racing in after me.
My father was standing beside the raised dais on which a gilt ne sne sat. He was a small man, clad in vibrant purpelveelvet. His white/gold hair was pulled back into a long braid that hung down his back. His long white beard was neatly combed and he had a thin gold circlet that sat on his brow. He was deep in conversation with two barbarians. My father looked up at my approach.
“Ah, Zyphere my daughter, come here.” he boomed.

I inclined my head, keeping my gaze trained on my father. I went to stand by his side, sinking into a low curtsey. I rose only when I felt his hand on the top of my head.

“Father...” I said softly, now standing beside him.

“Daughter, may I introduce General Quinn, and his son Maverick.” My father replied.

Only then did I raise my eyes to meet those of his companions. The general appeared to be a battle-hardened warrior, clad in stiff leather armour, a silver sword strapped to his waist. He had very short black hair, cropped close to his skull. Beady little black eyes and a toothy smile. I disliked him instantly. His son was something else. He was tall and thin; he had long silvery blonde hair that hung straight down his back, pale blue eyes and white skin. He was dressed in a long sleeve, ground length black coat that did up the middle with little silver clasps. He had black pants on and shiny black boots. Beside his father, Maverick looked like an elf. He was very beautiful.

“Charmed...” I said quietly, narrowing my emerald eyes at Maverick.

“My lady Zyphere...” he replied, inclining his head.

I felt my knees grow weak and I smiled faintly, nodding to General Quinn who had greeted me.

“Zyphere, the general and I have some business to attend to, would you show Maverick the Imperial Gardens?” My father asked.
I’d been summoned here for this? My gaze flickered to Maverick who was watching me intently. I felt my cheeks flush and I mumbled my assent. I fixed my eyes on the marble floor, and didn’t look up until my father’s footsteps receded into the background.

“Shall we go my lady?” Maverick asked, holding his arm out to me.
I raised my eyes to his face.

“Follow me.” I replied curtly, setting off out the door, ignoring his outstretched arm.
I could hear his boot heels click on the marble as he followed me. What was my father thinking to leave me alone with a man? Especially one as handsome as Maverick. I was getting all hot and bothered just thinking about him.
The Chez river gurgled to my left. The waters were crystal clear, and tiny Japanese koi carp could be seen in the depths. They were a gift from a Japanese emperor long ago. I followed the stone path to the back of the courthouse and the beginning of the Imperial Gardens. It was there that Maverick came to walk beside me. He kept his eyes straight ahead, but I was keenly aware of his presence beside me.

The path shifted from stone to intricate mosaic as we reached the shelter of the tall oak trees. The trees were so big; ten people reaching around the base could not entirely circle it. It was intensely quiet in the gardens. The only sound was the click-clack of our shoes on the tiles.

I stopped at the end of the path, overlooking an ornamental lake filled with more koi carp and pretty rainbow coloured fish.
“It’s beautiful...” Maverick said softly.

I couldn’t decide on the timbre of his voice. It was soft, yet commanding. Musical yet harsh.
I smiled bitterly; remembering he was only a barbarian who thought everything about my land was beautiful. I turned my head so he wouldn’t see the look on my face.

“Don’t you think it’s beautiful my lady?” Maverick asked.

I turned to face him, tilting my head back, my lips curved up into a smile.
“Not at all actually.” I stated.

To my surprise, Maverick chuckled.

“No, I don’t suppose you would think so. Being exposed to it everyday must be dreadfully boring.” he said, smiling slightly.

I opened my mouth to reply, my cheeks flushing. How had he known my heart so well? I narrowed my eyes angrily.
“You presume too much sir...” I snapped.

“Maverick. Call me Maverick.” Maverick replied.

“Only if you stop calling me ‘my lady’ and start using my name.” I retorted.
“Deal, Zyphere.” Maverick said, turning back to the lake.

I crossed my arms over my chest and scowled at the crystal water of the lake. He was the most infuriating person I had ever met.
“My father seems to think it’s good idea to have a party. That\'s what he wanted to talk to the emperor about.” Maverick continued, oblivious to my resentment.

I nodded absently.

“You are invited of course, as are your lovely sisters. As far as I know, it will be at the courthouse.” Maverick added.
I smiled slyly.

“I’d rather die, but thank you for the invitation sir...” I replied irritably then turned and walked back down the path.
Maverick hurried after me.

“You know” he began, falling into step beside me “You’re completely different from all of the other people here.”
I said nothing and kept my gaze fixed on the end of the path.

“It’s a welcome change. They’re all so pretentious. I thought the emperor’s daughters would be the worst of the lot.” Maverick continued.

“And?” I replied.
“They are.” Maverick laughed “But you’re something else.”

I chuckled at the thought of my prim and proper sisters swooning over Maverick. I uncrossed my arms and smiled at Maverick. He smiled back and offered me his arm. I raised one of my perfectly manicured eyebrows then slipped my slender arms through his. We walked slowly back down the path.

Maybe he wasn’t so bad after all.

My father waited with the general at the end of the path. My father took my hand and pulled me away. I stumbled after him, looking over my shoulder at Maverick who stood still beside his father, a small smile on his face.

“Ah, my daughter...” my father began.

I stopped trying to see over my shoulder and looked up at him.

“A party. Tonight at the court house.” my father stated.

I nodded.

“Maverick told me as much.” I replied softly.

“You must head home and ready yourself. I shall send an escort at seven.” my father said.

“But father, is there a theme to this party? What on earth shall I wear?” I asked.
My father sighed.

“I wish you wouldn’t use that expression. Honestly... ‘Where on earth’ indeed...” he muttered.

I hid a smile, suppressing the urge to correct him.

“You will wear whatever Arachnida sets out for you. It shall be a costume party.” my father said, stopping by the palace gate.
I nodded and hurried inside the gate and up to my room. I wondered how everyone would know about the party... but there seemed to be a party almost every night, so people would just leave at a moments notice.

Once inside my room, I ripped off the court shoes and threw them out the window.
“Now mistress, must you always do that?” Arachnida asked, rising from her needlework in the corner.
“Yes. I hate those shoes.” I replied.
I sat down on my bed.
“No what say you of my costume for the party?” I asked.
Arachnida smiled evilly. It was quite frightening.

“Something you said earlier gave me an idea mistress. Wait right here.” she stated, hurrying out of the room.
I stretched out on my bed, pulling my hair out of the clips it was in and letting it fan out about my head.
“Come on, get up.” Arachnida said a moment later.

I slowly rose into a sitting position and looked at her. She held an armful of shiny material.
“Off to the bath with you.” She stated.

I grumbled all the way into the bathroom, right up until I sunk down into the steaming hot water. I then closed my green eyes and rested my head back against the rim of the tub. I lazily washed myself, then waited patiently while Arachnida washed my hair, then conditioned it, then rubbed oils into it. The spicy scent of cinnamon filled the room.

At last I climbed out of the tub and wrapped myself in a fluffy white towel. I followed Arachnida back to my bedroom where I dried myself and allowed her to rub more oils into my skin. I smelt like cinnamon.

Then Arachnida revealed my costume for the night. She had decided I should dress like a courtesan from L’Amoursun. I blinked, and then laughed.

“You’re joking right?” I said.
Arachnida giggled.

“Not at all. Come on, lets get you dressed.” she replied.

I let her slip the dress on over my head. If a dress is what you could call it. It was two strips of black vinyl held together on the sides by thin black laces. It fit like a second skin. It was strapless and reached the ground. The lacing stopped just below my hips. A thick black satin sash was tied around my waist with long ends trailing down the baI thI then tried to put on the thigh high black vinyl lace up boots with horrific heels and intricate buckles the length of them. It was actually easier than it looked. Once those were on, I wandered over to the mirror and laughed at myself. I looked, well, like a courtesan.
Arachnida sat me down and combed my hair out, rubbing more sweet smelling cinnamon oil into it. She tousled some of it, parting it slightly off centre, spraying it with hairspray so that it fell messily over one side of my face. It was straight over my shoulders and down my back.

Arachnida outlined my eyes with thick black liner, and then dusted my eyelids with shimmery green shadow. My eyes looked very... oriental was the only word that came to mind. I sat patiently while Arachnida fussed over my long nails, eventually painting them the same shade of green as my eyes. While they dried, Arachnida applied bright red lipstick to my lips and then went to fetch something from another room.

She came back holding a whip. I chuckled. Nothing else surprised me about this night. I stood up and took the whip. I had no idea how to use it, but it was a prop, so I didn’t really have to know I guess.
It was nearing seven.

I stepped out into the hall, feeling very attractive and confident. Until I ran into my sisters that is. I have mentioned before that I am not especially beautiful by our standards. Well my sisters are. They are each more lovelyn thn the moon reflecting off the velvety midnight waters of the Chez river.

I ran headlong into my eldest sister Zyznril who was a vision in pristine white. She wore a long gown with a high neck and full sleeves that trailed in her wake. The gown was white, adorned with feathers at the throat, waist and over her hands. The bodice was beaded with crystal beads, as was the train that slid along the ground. She had hair the colour of oxblood that was pulled back from her face into an intricate mass of curls. Her full lipped coral tinted mouth curled up into a snarl.

“Where are you going dressed like that little whore?” she asked sweetly.

“To the party...” I replied softly.

“When you speak to me you will address me appropriately little whore.” Zyznril snapped.

“Yes your highness.” I murmured, lowering my head.

Zyznril pushed past me, muttering angrily.

I could feel tears sting my eyes. But I was determined not to cry. Zasette, my third eldest sister floated around the corner, dressed in a nymph-like dress of gauzy blue the same shade as her sapphire eyes. Her golden blonde hair was pulled back into a half ponytail, then fell in waves down her back. She stopped and looked me up and down.

“Don’t say anything.” I said angrily.

Zasette bit her lip then walked slowly past me. At least she hadn’t called me by their pet nickname. I’d always be ‘little whore’ to them. Not daring to risk an encounter with my second eldest sister Zhallwan I turned to head for the front gate. My father’s escort would be arriving soon anyway. Another boring nobleman who will flatter me all night long.

It was a short stroll to the entrance foyer. I stopped at the foot of the stairs; my mouth gaped open in astonishment. By the door, deep in conversation with my demon witch sister Zyznril was Maverick. He was dressed in tight black vinyl pants, black high-heeled boots, a ruffled white shirt and a deep red fitted waistcoat. His long hair was dead straight and hung down his back in a silver curtain. His gaze flickered to me, his pale blue eyes widened slightly, then he inclined his head and turned back to the demon witch.
Confused, I took another step into the foyer. This time, Zyznril saw me.

“Oh come here Zyphere...” she said sweetly.

I narrowed my emerald eyes and slunk over to her, standing out of arms reach.

“Zyphere, this is Maverick. Isn’t he to die for?” Zyznril gushed. rai raised an eyebrow in amusement then looked him up and down.

“Hardly my type, but I\'m sure he would make a fine accessory for you for fathers party.” I replied, my voice as sweet as honey.

Zyznril narrowed her eyes.

“Well, that was all.” she stated, dismissing me.

“Demon witch...” I mumbled, walking away.

“I heard that!” Zyznril called after me.

I shrugged and kept walking, ignoring the soft tones of Maverick’s musical voice, soothing my sisters’ anger.
I stepped into a parlour adjourning the foyer and walked up to the window. A carriage was pulling into the long drive, and came to a stop at the front entrance to the palace. I drew back the curtains and peered out. The carriage door was being opened and a young man leapt out. It was my best friend Karestian, clad in big black boots, tight blood red leather pants and a loose fitting open neck white shirt. He had a silver sword strapped to his waist, and a big black cloak flung around his shoulders. His messy chocolate brown hair was, well, still messy, and fell across his hazel eyes.

Karestian strode up to the front door. I raced him to it and flung the door open before he could knock. I leapt into his arms, hugging him tightly. It had been a very long time since we had seen each other.

“I missed you Zee...” he whispered into my ear, sliding his arms around me.

I didn’t say anything. I stepped back and smiled.
Karestian smiled back.

“I’m supposed to be taking your sister Zasette to this stupid party.” he said, looking around the foyer.
I blinked, confused.

“You’re not here for me?” I asked.

“No Zee, sorry. Your father and my father have ordered me to take Zasette. Speak of the devil....” Karestian replied, looking past me.

I turned around and stepped aside as Zasette floated over to us. She was truly beautiful. The sapphire blue dress clung to her in all the right places, and was strategically transparent across her arms, back and thighs. Her golden hair was magnificent in the dim light, pulled back into a half ponytail.

“Shall we go my lady?” Karestian asked, offering his arm to Zasette.

Zasette looked at him, then at me and took his arm. Karestian rolled his eyes at me, then led my sister back out to his carriage. I stood aside, so that Maverick could lead Zyznril outside. I stood in the doorway, watching the carriages pull out of the drive.
Well, aside from Maverick and Karestian I knew not whom my father would send for me. I should hanownnown though, but imagine my surprise at being greeted by the General Quinn, clad still in a military uniform, with shiny black boots and a heavy looking silver sword.

“My lady Zyphere...” he purred, bowing low on the doorstep.

“General... can I help you?” I replied, inclining my head.

“Of course. I am here to escort you to the party.” General Quinn said.

I blinked. My confusion must have shown, for the General burst into hearty laughter.

“Oh dear... just a pretty face are we?” he snickered.
I narrowed my emerald eyes, hating him with a passion.

“Well come on girl, we can’t be late.” The general added, taking my arm and leading me out to his carriage.

I allowed him to assist me up the step and into his carriage. It was very plain wood with uncomfortable seats and it smelt like stale sweat. I pressed myself up against the wall with my head stuck as far out the window as was polite.
The general’s intentions were very clear. As soon as he climbed in the carriage opposite me, his eyes never left me. The predatory glint in his eyes unnerved me. As we pulled out of the drive, his hand came to rest on my vinyl-clad knee. I took a deep breath and ignored him. The general slid his hand up my thigh to the top of my right boot. I uncrossed and re-crossed my legs, shooting him a furious glance.

The general grinned.

“Now, now my lady, don’t be coy with me.” he said, and then groaned.

“Oh Zyphere, what I wouldn’t give to take your virginity right here and now.”

I looked out the window quickly. We had just pulled in to the courthouse drive.

“Very well General.... you’ve caught me out.... I can’t deny it any longer...” I said meekly, curling my hand through the handle on the door.

The general’s eyes widened, then he leant forward, sliding his hand up my skirt.

“Oh general” I breathed, “Please be gentle with me...”

I slid my hand to the top of the door and held on up the top. Once the generals weight was all on me, I wrenched the door open, clinging to it as it swung in a wide arc. I then dropped to the ground neatly a few paces away.

The general tumbled out headfirst, cursing and swearing he got to his feet and made after me. Nimbly I ducked into the courthouse where the party was in full swing. I draped the whip across my shoulders and looked around.

The hall was full of people standing around gossiping. All were in elaborate costumes but in most cases I was able to tell who was who. Those of more important stature usually left their faces bare, as was the case with my sisters, the general, Karestian, my father, Maverick and myself.

My eyes caught those of my sister Zhallwan who was standing by the wall to my left talking to a young man. She wore a dref shf shimmering gold satin with a tight bodice and long gauzy sleeves. Her rust coloured hair was loose around her shoulders in messy curls. She looked like an autumn princess. I looked away hurriedly and set off into the crowd.
I had barely gone three paces when my friend Karestian intercepted me. I fell into step with him and he led me out onto the dance floor.

“Your sister is a nightmare.” he whispered.

“I know.” I replied.

Karestian pulled me against him and curled his arm around my waist.

“Seriously... she is so weird... Like she lives in another world...” he continued.

I chuckled as a vision of Zasette floating down the corridor filled my mind. I opened my mouth to speak but dissolved into giggles. We stopped abruptly in front of my father. He frowned at us sternly, which made me laugh more.

“I’m glad you find things so funny Zyphere, but Karestian doesn’t have the time to be dancing with you. There will be plenty of time to catch up after the party.” he stated.

I pouted, then kissed Karestian on the cheek and went to stand beside my father. I watched him reunite with my sister Zasette and suppressed a chuckle.

“Are you having fun Zyphere?” My father asked.

I shook my head.

“I figured as much. You know General Quinn wishes to betroth his son to Zyznril. Lord Vineyard is interested in your young friend Karestian wedding Zasette. The Lord and Lady Calonne wish for their son Asichi to wed Zhallwan...” My father continued, his voice trailing off.

“That just leaves me...” I said glumly.

My father nodded and turned his head away.

“Right...” he stated.
He took a deep breath and turned back to me.

“What am I going to do with you?” he asked.

I narrowed my emerald eyes slightly, expecting reproach, but instead I got a tired smile.

“I am getting old Zyphere. The more human I get, the frailer I become. I am not long for this world. I want to see that you are taken good care of.” My father said.

My eyes softened. I hadn’t heard him talk like this before.

“Don’t say that father, you shall be just fine...” I said softly, though if my father heard he gave no sign.

He wandered off into the crowd. I took off outside onto the balcony with a glass of lemon liqueur. I stood by the rail looking out over the town. There was a slight breeze that toyed with my dark hair but there was not a single cloud in the sky.
I sipped on the liqueur, feeling its warmth right down my throat. I coughed harshly then chuckled to myself.
I could feel it taking effect. I downed the rest of the glass and set it down on the railing. The moonlight glinted off it prettily. I knelt down and looked at the glass closely. It was a rainbow prism, with beams shooting around inside it. It captured the light and magnified it. I raised my hand and flicked the perfectly carved glass off the railing. It made a pretty tinkling sound as it smashed on the ground below.

I rose to my feet and peered over the railing. I could see the fragments of glass shining on the tiled path to the imperial gardens.
Satisfied, I turned and walked back into the hall, then stopped in my tracks. Everyone was back against the far wall. My father lay in a pool of blood on the middle of the floor. Without thinking I rushed over to him and knelt down in his blood.

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Mwa ha ha ha..........