Shift in Perceptions: Chapter Two
''Welcome,'' echoed the three Shadow Judges, sitting upon their thrones that appeared to the corpses of humans. The candles beside them were illuminating the velvet red and gray room, and only the starchy robes of the Judges were able to be seen, accompanied by pairs of red eyes that scorched with fierce negativity. ''Young woman, you bear the Dark Seal yet we have never had your presence in the past. Why do you trespass?''
Evelynn turned and faced the group of guards on either side of her; fifteen guards stood about her with looks of uneasiness, along with abrasions and gashes upon their armor from the unnerving creatures they battled to find the dismal throne room. Originally, she had eighteen accompanying her for protection, but little did they know their main purpose was to be offerings for immortality. She handed the seal Theresa gave to her prior her leaving to the guard on the left side of her, before facing the Shadow Judges with a earnest look she tried to hold, though inside she was terrified.
''I am Queen of Albion, Evelynn Wren. I have come to make a bargain, Shadow Judges, that is, if you accept what it is I have to offer.''
''Speak quickly.''
''Ah, yes. I wish to be granted immortality, and have brought sacrifices as my first payment. I believe I have fifteen innocent men with me now- their souls are yours if you accept the offer.'' Gasps among the crowd of men began, while others begged for their life as they spoke of wives and children. The doors behind her closed, preventing the men from escaping, only allowing them to bang and claw at the cracked bricks. Evelynn felt herself tearing up as she did not wish to take fifteen lives, but dismissed the tears as Theresa's voice reminded her that Fate depended upon this moment. Stay strong, the journey is only beginning.
''Immortality? There is currently another with such a gift... we cannot grant every mortal what they ask for! Offer declin-''
''Wait! I... I will present the lives of three every time I visit to have the deal fulfilled and renewed. Surely that is more than Reaver is giving...''
''Hmmm, such a tainted mind you have, child,'' one of the Shadowed Judges chuckled, Evelynn fighting within herself as she could not believe the words she was speaking. How could I be so selfish? I'm beginning to doubt the authenticity of this expedition for a weapon I have never even heard of! What does Theresa need with the Solstice of Avo from the start? ''Wicked and aphotic as night turns the color of your heart to the shadows. We are pleased with your proposition, and this deal we will honor. Remember, the rules cannot be broken and you must return with three mortals.''
A billow of smoke appeared around her and the other men, and they burned, scorching to ashes. The screaming and cries of being burned alive ringed in Evelynn's ears, and she cringed, holding her head as if she was awaiting the flames to reach her own self. The smell was putrid, and with closed eyes she ran from the room into the other chamber after the door was agape for her release. She opened her eyes, wiping stray tears while she trudged to the entrance of the Shadow Judges and their dwelling.
Never... never will I forgive myself. I know what I have done was wrong... How can others even call me a Hero now? A Hero... Personally will I write a letter and give compensation of gold to send to the families of these loyal men... Theresa, if you can here me, I hope you are satisfied...
Before leaving, Evelynn raised her head and breathed deeply, her feelings of regret and grief now bubbled heavily within her chest, replacing the shallowness with absolute anger. The dim light of the outside blinded her, and she squeezed her swollen eyes shut to regain vision and assess the situation. Where in the entire marshy area she was secluded in was she to find Reaver now?
''What is a gorgeous, imperial dove leaving the Shadow Court for? You have flown far from your nest, far indeed,'' came the voice of the pompous man she was thinking of only seconds ago. The end of a gun's barrel was placed at the side her skull, and the distinct clicking of the gun as he cocked it was heard clearly in the silence. Her eyes rolled to the left, but only trees dressed in vines could be seen as he was angled away from her perspective.
''I was just thinking of the son of Skorm! Reaver, I advise you remove your gun for I am no mood to participate in your folly games!'' Evelynn snapped, though she kept her position as Reaver can be so unpredictable. Immortal or not, she was and will continue to be cautious around him just as he should be around her. She thought of herself not only politically compelling, but her strength and Will abilities were well developed over the years since the awaking of her Hero blood alongside training.
''You are no longer bound in the walls of your snug kingdom Queen- do not bark commands at me in this lawless land as your words hold no power. Order me once more and I will put a bullet through that pretty skull of yours.'' The point of the gun was pushed slightly, and then thankfully removed from her head, allowing her to face the threatening man. He appeared different, outstandingly more younger and his paleness became more toned. His built was still the same, along with his bothersome personality the Queen despised at times.
''Well, Reaver, you have been absent rather a prolonged time- leaving the kingdom to fend for itself; hmph, quite a cowardly action, I must add. I see you have made your sacrifices and tied loose ends... I hope you are prepared for a new conquest, as I need your assistance once again, and not your Industry, but your naval skills.''
''Is that so?'' he remarked, ignoring the comment of his betrayal and flee from the palace when the Corruptor was to arrive. He still held the Dragonstomper .48, waving it around as his arm was arched, causing Evelynn to still be nervous. ''Well my love, you are graced with the presence of the precisest, and most attractive captain in all of Albion. Let us travel to my temporary camp where we may discuss the details over wine and fruits, shall we? The insects flourishing here are so infuriating!''