The Tale of Stories

by The Sagemaster

Tales of gallant heroes, evil villians, and fairy-tale princesses have all been heard and told throughout the known world. Yet this is only the beginning. There are more adventures, more journeys, villains more powerful and ancient than the next, secrets and long-lost realms, and new heroes, who have their own stories to be told. It is time, for the tale of stories to be told.

11. Book 1: Epilogue

Tale of Stories

Book 1

Epilogue

The princess, no, now Queen, strode confidently further into the dank halls and dark stone passages. She moved passed the burning torches and a few grim guards, who seemed to be part of the dungeon rather than guarding it.

After sauntering down several pathways and passages, the young royal found herself in front of a great wooden door. She felt like a child again, scared in her father's great big castle, so devoid of joy and life. Most of all, it reminded her of her mother's own dungeons, dark places that only screams and shrieks came from. Yet her she was, facing her mother in the bowels of twisted metal cages and stone works.

She looked to the guard at the side, pulling back the blue hood from her face.

"Is she secured?" she asked the grim-looking man.

He replied flatly, "Yes. She is held down. Do you wish me to go in with you?"

"No, thank you. Let me speak with her myself."

With a deep breath, she opened the door and walked into the dungeon cell.

Her mother was sitting in a corner, her hands tied down. The woman before her was calm, smiling even, as if she was expecting and awaiting an old friend. Though there was, as always, that sinister feeling behind her stepmothers soft grin, that always permeated her facade.

"Mother." Snow said softly, trying to sound as brave and kind as she could.

The Queen smiled back, almost tenderly, and said, "Little stepdaughter. I have been waiting for you."

Snow White swallowed, and all was quiet for a minute. Finally, the Queen spoke before Snow began, "I'm sure you have questions for me."

"Yes," answered Snow.

"Oh, don't worry my dear little daughter. Almost, everything will be explained." Then, breaking composure, the Queen spat disdainfully, "You always were the fairest."

"Stop speaking in riddles! Your plan has been foiled!" Snow White exclaimed, shocking herself with her emotional outburst.

But her stepmother was creepingly calm, and simply responded with, "Oh, my dear little one. I did fail. But this was just the start. Many are surprised I am even alive. There are so many more game to be played. So many more tales to be told."