A/N: This story will be written in the style wherein the Epilogue is first and the Prologue comes last.
When None are Left: to reveal the truth
Epilogue
I am almost glad when the Dynast calls the recess to a close. The Jurors give no sign as they walk in as to whose favor the decision is. My eyes rove to encompass the witnesses, who all look stoic, besides Filia. All besides she, her exquisite face a mirror of such tortured pain, it is enough to break my heart. I have suffered so long to keep her from knowing the interrogation I endure, the endless torture. It has all been in vain. But I love her all the more for her strength.
Dynast mounts the stairs to his post. He is shrouded in shadow, hidden in his judge's gown. As he takes his seat, he leans back, revealing the sharp features of his The sadistic satisfaction I see there is enough to tell me I lost. I bow my head as he calls the court to order.
"This court finds Xellos Metallium guilty of cohabitation and reproduction with a member of the ryuuzoku. The penalty of death will be meted out in due course. These offenses…." Dynast solemnly continues, but not without a barely visible smirk.
I am not surprised. Should I have expected otherwise? Should I have expected compassion from my fellow Mazoku? No, it appears not. And yet, although I am prepared for my death, there is still Filia. Her strained face is now buried in her hands, pristine tears flowing freely. Her beautiful voice is now employed only in broken sobbing. Her golden hair is a but thin veil, behind which she is bent over into her lap. It aches, it is such great pain to see her in such a state.
But for my her, I would not allow myself this dishonor. But for my love I would not allow Dynast the pleasure of disposing of his rival. And yet, I still may. Perhaps…. Perhaps I can convince her not to follow me, as I would do for her.
But no, I see Dynast's designs now, now that they are no longer hidden in whispers and murmurs. I see them as Filia is taken away, complacent. I see his plans. I am to be deprived even of this last honor, of seppuku. He will not allow us to speak. She will only see me die, not hear me as I plead. She will only see my strife torn visage, crying out of its own regard. But it will not be enough. Not without my words.
"Dynast!" I call, "Will you allow me my last wish, to be able to speak with my
koishii once before I die?"
"And tell her to kill herself before the Ryuuzoku decide that she is expendable? I think not. It is my duty as an administrator of the law to prevent anarchists like you from poisoning the society." He smoothly skirts my trap.
"I do not wish her to die, but the contrary. If you would but allow me to entreat but one word to her ——"
"I will not be misled by your terrorist designs." He snaps.
"—— or may I be granted the last honor of seppuku by your grace ——." Perhaps flattery..
"Ha!" a mocking laugh, "Do you think I will fall for such cheap tricks? Your flattery will get you no closer to your wish than insults. As for seppuku, men as low as yourself perhaps do not know how to perform the sacred ritual. And yet, if you do know, I will no more allow it. You will be given no opportunities to fake your death and escape." Dynast retorts.
Despair floods through me, Dynast has thought this one out methodically.
"What, no witty remark?"
I am silent, only hoping and praying for Filia to listen to reason…. and flee.