Jupiter Eclipsing

by amandamayclair

Jupiter Jones once dreamed of escaping her life of drudgery for the lure of excitement and wealth. Having received those in overwhelming abundance, she wouldn't mind dealing with a few simple troubles for a change. But her destiny isn't resting, and when it comes hunting, she must rise to the challenge that, for better or worse, can change a world, or a universe.

26. Chapter 26

1.

Bowing low, the ever stoic gray feathered Malidictes backs slowly across the travertine tiled hall from Her Majesty Kalique's agitated presence. Her low, sleeveless gown of black lace catches the light with glittering gold and blue glints beneath the fury of her pacing. Her delicate lips are etched in a deep frown, and she flicks the image of Jupiter Jones from her screen with a dramatic flourish of her gold embraced arm.

2.

Titus Abrasax, redolent in deep navy velvet over black leather breeches, leans against a gilt cushion, throws back his head to expose the black with glowing blue light encircling his throat, and laughs.

3,

A lush riot of greens spreads into the distance below the balcony on which Morkenin rests her right palm. A cape of white feathers flutters over her tunic of ice green. Her face remains inscrutable as she stares over the rolling trees as if heeding only the calls of distant birds. But as she looks aside, a single tear glistens at the corner of her bright blue eye. A sim's cold voice interrupts from behind her.

"Your Majesty, the ship awaits your command."

4,

Captain Tsing squares her shoulders and turns back to the view screen. Only the tightness in her brown eyes belies her concern, though Phylo glances up, like the rest of the bridge crew, testing the mood.

"Surely there is more to the story," he offers, before returning hastily to his duty.

"There always is," Captain Tsing replies to herself.