Disclaimer:
The following story contains graphic sexual scenes between underage boys. If material of this nature offends you, then you should not read this story. Additionally, if the law where you live forbids you to read such stories you should not read this story. This story is purely a work of fiction. Any resemblance to persons living or dead, or to events that may have occurred, is purely coincidental. Don't forget this is a story, not everything that is done here is legal so I claim no responsibility on the actions the reader might do as a result of reading this story. The author claims all copyrights to this story and no duplication or publication of this story is allowed, except by The Nifty Archive, without the express written consent of the author
Authors Note: Hello, and thank you all to those who have been emailing me with their support and comments. I appreciate it so much! I attempted to make this chapter longer but I'm not sure if I succeeded. Nonetheless, happy reading, and any comments just please email me at Jfaulkner1992@hotmail.com. Make sure you put R&J in the subject line or I won't open it! Xoxo- Jordan
The Invitation
I was still trudging home from the hotel where I left my cousin Johnny. It was night time now and the sky was black with dimly lit stars. The moon stood grander than a knight on his horse. Its presence was known and it's shine was bright. The moon wasn't full but it could have been with the amount of light it was emitting. I fiddled with the bracelet on my wrist and I began to think of my father. I missed him dearly and I began to think, was this what my father had intended for me? Such misery and strife? No, he couldn't have! He loved me, even if I didn't fulfill his desires of being like Hugo. Why else would he leave me this bracelet? I felt empowered when I thought about my father. I was just ready to be happy again and live my life nature had intended for me. Through all of this thinking I became closer and closer to my destination. I would with no doubt run into trouble with Hugo or Claudia, and I was curious to know how tonight's events would play out. Either way, a new day would dawn. I was determined to be alert on all of my chores to at least take some pressure off of me.
I approached the manor slowly. I stood and looked at it curiously. The large tendrils of vines were beginning to cover the sides and the front. The garden was blooming somewhat and noting spring's presence. The aroma of flowers filled my nose with warmth and happiness. The sweet smells made me think of carefree summers with my Mother. She would often have me garden with her. I could still remember her laugh with the delicate sounds of the wind and the caring sounds of a babbling brook. I missed what used to be but I've learned to not hold on to the past. With all of this daydreaming, I heard a clamoring of dishes. Just another rude awakening from what I wish was.
"Oh dear," I muttered. I walked through the pathway and up to the door. I rested my hand on the knob and began to tremble a little. The knob felt hot with anger. The walls seemed unsteady. There was a lack of balance in the air and for the first time in a while, I felt afraid to be home. I turned the knob slowly and entered the house. The tension was like a thick cloud of smoke for I couldn't see past the angry faces that awaited my arrival. I walked slowly around the hallway and into the parlor where Claudia sat, and on her right sat Hugo, both with faces as red as fire and eyes stern as iron.
"Well if it isn't the little peacekeeper!" snarled Claudia, "How dare you Julian! How dare you! Trying to protect the Mantz family are we? Thought we'd play a little heroic act? Thought we'd make Hugo look like a fool, hmmm? Looks like someone has time for vicious practical jokes!"
"But..." I began to plead.
"Hold your tongue!" she shouted. She stood up and appeared to be shaking with rage. Her hair was in disarray and gave the appearance of untamed flames. Her eye's glowed with anger, her soul was pushed by the thrill of betrayal.
She walked closer to me and stared at me thoroughly until she finally muttered, "Now you listen to me Julian. I will not have a traitor living under this roof. I will not have it! After all I have done for you..."
"Done?" I shouted furiously, "What have you possibly done for me? HUH!? Nothing!"
I too began to shake somewhat but I felt relieved. I felt like pressure was releasing from a tank. Slowly my nerves began to calm. The look on Hugo's face was pure disgust and somewhat fear. My stepmother's was a bit different. It was more of murder.
"I have become a slave in my own house Claudia! You call yourself a mother, but to whom?" I asked incredulously, "Your drunk of a son? Or your intelligent daughter whom you turn your back against? Whom you shun from society because you focus more on this war than you do your own family? My father, your husband, died because of this war! Of all people you should be the one who wants this war to end the most! I'm just a bastard child, whom you've been dumped with, aren't I?"
My stepmother Claudia stared at me, with big owl eyes. None of her children ever raised their voice to her like that. No one had ever challenged her like that. Thankfully, I was not her child so therefore I saw no boundaries that limited me from pursuing happiness and stability.
"Answer me!" I shouted.
My stepmother jumped at my bark. She stepped forward an inch closer to me, extended her arm, and slapped me across the face. The sting felt like the burn of a thousand suns. It was years of envy and hatred backed by brute force. But I knew I was going to be ok. I would heal but her conscience and her pride however, would not.
Anya stood in the back of the room where I did not notice her. She was silently weeping at the display of emotion she had just witnessed. Hugo sat still in his chair looking at his mother, and slightly glancing at me though never making full eye contact. Claudia was staring directly at me with her lips trembling in anguish.
"Both of you go to your rooms it's late," she commanded to Hugo and Anya silently.
"But mother..." spouted Hugo in anger.
"Go!" she shouted, "And not another word!"
She stood as stern as she could manage. She tried to grasp onto whatever control she had but her realizations of control over me where fading and I believe that scared her. Anya and Hugo scurried out of the room. I noticed Hugo drinking out of a bottle as he walked past me. What happened next was an utter shock.
"Hugo, come back please," asked Claudia with control.
Hugo turned around and walked slowly back. Anya stood frozen on the stairs and waited to see what would happen. There was a loud clang from outside the window. The clock tower from the town had struck twelve, marking a new day.
Claudia had extended her hand to her son and snatched the bottle of brandy from his grasp. She threw it in a fit of rage at the fire place. The alcohol fueled the fire with every negative emotion felt inside that house. The lingering flames danced with fierce energy. They mimicked the tendrils of vines outside the house, laughing at anything who tried to control them. Hugo stood in shock at his mother, his mouth agape with stupidity and slight drunkenness.
"I will have no more contributions to your alcoholic needs," said Claudia firmly, "Now both of you, go to bed."
With those final words Hugo and Anya trudged up the stairs and went silently to their rooms. I watched Hugo emasculated and embarrassed beyond my wildest imaginations. The new day had dawned. I felt a silent victory within my heart. I heard Claudia clear her throat at me and I turned to look at her. I wanted to say something to her, but I didn't know what. I had basically let a tank of steam off into her face. I didn't know how to fix what was broken.
"Julian," she stated firmly, "I expect your regular chores to be done tomorrow morning without attitude. And I will not tolerate another outburst like tonights. Nor will I allow any defaming of your father, God rest his soul, in my house either. I will not allow any of it at all! Do I make myself clear?"
"Yes, stepmother," I said silently.
"Very well then, now clean this place up, it's a sty," commanded Claudia, "And, goodnight Julian."
I watched my stepmother ascend the stairs gracefully and position herself at the top. She stared at a family portrait of my father for a few seconds. She then turned back at me and silently bowed with a sense of respect. My heart was pivoting with confusion. I heard my stepmother's door close and I stood in silence. I felt the air around me to be unstill and I just felt so different. A new emotion came about inside of me. I just didn't know what it was. I felt my father's bracelet and a small tear fell out of my eye. This isn't what my father had intended for me. Not at all. I still stood at the foot of the staircase in shock of the events from today. Apart from being a hero, getting clobbered by someone, being saved by a random stranger- a Mantz no less, and standing up to my stepmother I'd say today was very productive. I began to silently chuckle at my poor sense of humor and silently started to clean my families mess. To my surprise there wasn't very much to clean and I was done in no time. The side of my head still throbbed to the touch and I tried recalling the events of this morning.
Who was Johnny referring too? Who was this mysterious stranger? Why would Victor help me? All of these questions just made my head hurt a little more so I gave up on the thought process. I just need some good rest. I quickly tidied up the mess I had made from cleaning the original mess and started to walk to the tower. I ascended the staircase slowly. I was starting to feel fatigued and could not wait to rest my head. I finally reached my room and swiftly undressed and lit the fire. I rolled onto my bed and sleep soon overcame me. My body began to feel tingly and my head pains faded away. I was floating upon a cloud of dreams. Wonder and excitement were at my fingertips. Unfortunately, I was awoken by a loud chime. My eyes shot open and the sunlight flooded into my eyes. I slowly started to turn over and curse that damn clock tower. I felt like I got barely any sleep. I touched my father's bracelet and slowly rolled out of bed. My head had a pain to it still and it was quite sore. I got dressed with a languid attitude.
I opened the shutters and welcomed the morning with my back turned. I suppose it isn't the morning's fault that I'm so tired and fed up with my life. A bird had mounted my windowsill while I was finishing tidying up my room. He startled me with his morning song. It was so light and gay. It practically wrapped around me and hugged me with loving care. I slowly approached the bird. He was blue with red tints on his feathers. It was like he flew with light flames yet still had the appearance of safety. The bird still chirped his morning song and I smiled at him. At least, I think it was a him.
"Hey there little guy," I said. Great, I'm talking to a bird, what's next? After this thought the bird sang a more cacophonous tune. I chuckled as I pondered him reading my thoughts. He began to sing again with light elegance again. I reached over to my dresser and ripped apart some bread Anya had brought me from the other night. I slowly fed tiny crumbs to my new friend and I thought about naming him.
"Would you like a name little bird?" I asked. He sang with excitement and I took that as a yes. I laughed and thought of several names.
"How about Jack?"
The bird replied with a loud crow. I took that as a no.
"Ok, not Jack," I laughed, "How about Ryan?"
Again, the bird crowed harshly.
"Stuart?"
Once again I was hit with a rough tune. I began to feel hopeless.
"You're one tough bird to name!" I said humoursly, "What do you think?"
With my light chuckle the bird sang what sounded like a "brrrrr" sound. I thought of names that started with a "brrrrr".
"How about Bruno?" I asked.
The bird flew up in excitement and sang harmoniously. He flew around my room until he finally settled back on the windowsill. He looked quite please with his new name. His feathers fluttered with excitement and the arrangement of colors was exciting. It was an explosion of happy emotion upon his body.
"Alright Bruno it is!" I said, "But Bruno, I have to get to doing my daily chores. You have a good day now."
Bruno responded by singing a goodbye tune and flew away. I decided to spread out some more crumbs on the windowsill in case he wanted to come back for a snack. I hoped Bruno would come back tomorrow, or anytime really. Having an animal friend isn't so bad, especially when they sing so beautifully.
As I watched Bruno fly away I softly whispered, "Fly dear Bruno, fly free."
With all my animal adventures for one day I exited my tower and down the stairs. I went about my daily morning chores and started preparing breakfast. The morning slowly came by and there wasn't much excitement. The kitchen was cold and quiet except for my occasional creative messes lying around. For once in my life, it felt like a peaceful morning. This alarmed me for Acara was never peaceful where one could relax. It was always alive with scandal or excitement, but never relaxation. Many find it too boring I suppose. And I can see why. Maybe I am just so used to Claudia breathing down my neck that after last night, things might change. I smiled at that though and silently chuckled. Claudia and change? Poppycock! It was a lovely Sunday morning already, I couldn't ruin it with silly notions like that.
I quietly served breakfast to everyone and there wasn't much life present in anyone. Claudia was silent and subdued, Anya was half asleep but beautiful as ever, and Hugo was still a mindless ogre. I served them tray by tray and got them anything they needed. They were all silent and the tension was thick. Anya would gaze at me from time to time in apology. I know how much she loved me but sometimes I just wish she wasn't so afraid to show it. I began to turn out of the room and continue my chores until my stepmother spoke.
"Julian, I am not to be disturbed today. Is that understood?" asked Claudia quietly.
"Yes," I responded quickly.
I continued out of the room and into the back yard and was delighted to find that the sun was shining delightfully. I was just glad to be out of that house. I needed to tend to the garden as it was looking a bit dull. The flowers were losing their lust from their vines and it just simply wouldn't do. The essence of spring was very evident though due to the arrangement of colors and smells. Even if something was dying, its presence is still certainly known. I walked over towards the shed and grabbed the tin water can. The suns light reflecting off of its shiny surface. While filling it with water I began to hum. I could at least try and make this a good morning, couldn't I? Something just felt different in the air though. I couldn't quite understand what though. I shrugged my shoulders carelessly and decided not to worry about it. I started towards the rose bushes and watered them plentifully, making sure to not be too stingy to any single flower. Everything deserved a fair chance at healthy living. I heard the backdoor open and as I turned around I saw Anya standing there as beautiful as ever. Her auburn hair was somewhat put back which illuminated her pale skin and rosy cheeks. She was perfectly bright and perfectly present. Her long skinny figure was complimented by a lovely dress that fit her perfectly. The floral patterns gave way to her necessary curves and perfect chest. She smiled at me and she ran towards the shed. She came out with another watering can and filled it up promptly. She was quickly at my side.
"So, how are you?" she asked.
"I'm fine, why wouldn't I be?" I responded nonchalantly.
"Well after last night I would be a little shaken, ya know?" she said solemnly.
I laugh and responded with, "Well, that's because you fear her. I don't."
She chuckled and sarcastically added, "Obviously."
We mindlessly chatted about various things as we watered the entire backyard garden. What I wasn't aware of was how Claudia was watching us from an upstairs window. Her dragon eye watched me more than I knew, but what was she guarding? Me and Anya bonded more throughout the morning and we both started to make our way to the front of the house. The tendrils were beginning to climb the house due to springs awakening. They reminded me of how Claudia likes to seize something when she's allowed too. Always grasping her writhing fingers around an opportunity that isn't hers. The morning was beginning to leave us and afternoon was slowly approaching. Anya was looking at me out of the corner of her eye and she fashioned a look of concern.
"What?" I asked.
"Your face, it seems to be healing a bit," she responded in a lovely tone.
I went to touch my face and squinted a bit at the pain that was still present. There was a slight decrease in the bump on my face and it was just more discomfort than sharp pain. I just wish I could remember more of that day and I wish I knew who that man Johnny mentioned just before I left was. Maybe I should find Victor and ask him. I laughed at that thought. Talk to Victor? That'll be easy.
"So, what exactly happened?" asked Anya inquisitively.
"I wish I knew," I said flatly, "I don't know what came over me. I just saw Hugo creating this ruckus and something inside me snapped."
"That happens to me almost every day with Hugo," laughed Anya which caused me to chuckle a bit myself.
`Yes," I added, "But that is beside the point!"
"Really? Then what is the point?" asked Anya playfully.
"That I did what I did. The fact I even thrusted myself in the middle of this stupid war. It's pointless. I can't even remember why this whole thing started."
"Yeah," said Anya softly, "But your father would have been proud."
I smiled at that comment and hugged Anya silently. Through that entire conversation I felt a new bond forming with Anya. It was stronger than ever and it was possibly a bond that was too strong for anyone to break. We had finished most of the garden until a man came through the gate carrying an awfully large satchel considering he was so short. He didn't look very pleasing and I hadn't expected any mail at this hour. Anya looked at me with curiosity and she shrugged her shoulders. The man fervently approached as if he was late for a very important date. His white hair made me think of him as a white hair, all he needed was a waistcoat and an oversized pocket watch to make my day.
The man slowly approached until he huffed out the sentence while handing me an envelope, "An urgent message in the name of the Governor!"
I took the envelope with great curiosity and noticed Anya was over my shoulder peaking as well. I felt a presence from the envelope. It was pulsating with change and it felt like much of what I was feeling this morning. The vibration was eminent. Anya could feel it in the air. I thanked the little man and he was off as quickly as was his arrival. The envelope was addressed as, "The Caps Family".
"What do you think it is?" asked Anya excitedly.
"I don't know," I said turning back to her, "But he said it was urgent."
"Oh my, mother said she didn't want to be disturbed! Remember?" warned Anya.
I smiled slyly at Anya and finally spoke, "I suppose I'll just have to interrupt her little vacation now won't I? I'm under strict orders, ya know?"
Anya looked at me with concern until she finally muttered, "This is not going to go over very well."
I laughed at Anya's insecurities with her mother and slowly walked up the steps towards the front door. Anya was still standing in the garden until I gave her a look of, "Well aren't you coming?" She huffed somewhat and muttered some type of, "Ok, ok". We both entered the house quickly and we stumbled into the lounge where Claudia was sitting quietly with Hugo. For once he wasn't drunk by Noon. Claudia glanced up at the both of me and Anya with fierce eyes. Her eyes lingered on me for a silent amount of time. I stared back just as challenging.
"This came from the Governor just now," I said to Claudia firmly.
She looked at me with resilience and finally stood up, snatching the envelope out of my hands.
"I can see you still don't know how to follow orders. I thought I didn't want to be disturbed, but seeing how it's from the Governor I suppose it'll do, for now," said Claudia firmly. She carefully ripped open the envelope and read the letter calmly. Her eyes got bigger with excitement and wonder by every word she read. Her face didn't go unnoticed by either of her children and I could see the curiosity building up in the room. After she was done reading the letter she excitingly stated, "There's to be a masquerade!"
"A mask?" screamed Anya with joy.
"When?" asked Hugo.
"Tonight," said Claudia with angst, "This gives us little time to prepare, so Julian I will have a few chores for you to manage please."
"But, mother, what about Julian?" asked Anya.
She looked at me then her daughter until she finally spoke, "What about him?"
"But mother, he's still part of this family!" shouted Anya.
"Honestly, Anya, why would they allow servants to a political function like this?" snarled Hugo.
"But it's addressed as `The Caps Family' and he is still part of this family!" defended Anya.
I stood frozen through this entire display of catharsis. I was amazed at how passionate Anya was defending me. It felt good, but Hugo was right. There wasn't any place at a function like that for me, but I was- technically- still a part of this family. Claudia watched the argument continue on between Hugo and Anya until she finally took command.
"Anya, you will go upstairs and get ready. You must look your best tonight. Hugo, I suggest you go shower and wash the smell of alcohol off of you and get ready yourself. We'll be escorted to the Governors at 8. And, as for you Julian, I have some things I need tending too," commanded Claudia.
I stared at her and finally spoke, "Alright."
Anya just looked at my response in awe. She gave me a look of "What the fuck?" and stormed out of the room and up the stairs. Hugo had stumbled right after her and I was wrong. He was drunk before Noon. And to think I thought today was a good day. I laughed somewhat inside and began to venture towards the kitchen until Claudia spoke.
"Aren't you going to ask if you can go too, Julian?"
"Why give you the satisfaction to know that I want to go?" I said firmly.
She laughed haughtily and smiled, "You have so much of your father in you Julian. You're stubborn. Quite stubborn."
"Yeah, and you're a bitch. Now that we're pointing out our flaws is there anything else you'd like to say?" I said quickly.
She appeared shaken at my violent conjecture and huffed somewhat until she finally spoke, "I'll not be spoken too in that manner. And to think I even considered letting you go. Like Hugo said, Why invite a servant?"
With that statement I grabbed my father's bracelet and bellowed out, "This isn't what my father had intended for me!"
Claudia had stopped where she was and turned around slowly and softly spoke with utter control, "No, he didn't, but he's dead, isn't he?"
With her sly smile she walked out of the room and up the stairs. I stood dumbfounded at such a statement. A statement that sounded like pure emotionless void, and from his wife no less! From someone who was labeled as my mother. A small tear escaped the corner of my eye and it was a moment that I truly missed my father. He was the leg of a three-legged-table, and now that he was gone that table couldn't stand anymore. I felt like that table and I feel like Claudia had just ripped that leg off once and for all. Through my thinking she came back into the room with a list of chores. She handed them to me properly and kissed my cheek while finally whispering, "I would like these done by the end of the night." I shuddered at the sound of her voice due to it being so venomous. She was a viper who had just struck her prey and decided to strike again for the thrill of it. She gave new meaning to killing someone with kindness. I somberly watched her leave the room again and sighed heavily. I felt a shudder through my body again and felt an uncontrollable wave of emotion flood me. I ran. I ran out the backdoor. I ran up the stairs of the tower. I ran into my room. I simply ran.
After throwing myself on my bed I felt the hot tears rush back against my cheeks. I felt so hopeless. Through the continuous chokes of solitude I couldn't help but feel what my stepmother said was right. Yes, this wasn't what my father had intended for me, but he was dead. What was the use of that notion since there wasn't anything I could do about it? I felt a cold sting of cold on my wrist and looked at my father's bracelet. Clean slate my ass. I took it off and threw it across the room. Who cares about some stupid party anyways? It's not like it matters. I'm sure it will be awfully dull, and boring, and completely...completely...ugh, completely wonderful. Oh well. What doesn't kill you makes you stronger, I suppose. Even clichés couldn't comfort me at the moment. I got up from my bed and wiped my tears away. I walked across the room and picked up my father's bracelet. I noticed that I slightly bent the hook that holds it together. It fitted looser on my wrist but it stayed there and that was all that matters. I was frustrated that I was letting her get to me. I couldn't let Claudia get to me. I had to fight her fire with an even hotter fire. I just couldn't let that bitch get the best of me. I just couldn't. I'd figure out some way to make my way to that masquerade. I just had to plan heavily, with acute precision. I felt that this was right, I felt it. I knew it.
I made my way back into the house and through the parlor. The house was busy with preparations. I found the invitation on the table where Claudia had carelessly left it. I picked it up and scanned its contents carefully. It read in fancy fonts and bright sparkles:
"You are cordially invited to Governor Paris' Masquerade of Mystery! Located at the Governor's Manor starting promptly at 8pm lasting until time sees fit. Expect a night full of enigma and wonder. Questions lie around every corner, and answers lie right before your very eyes. Leave your life behind and enter the Governor's World of Mystery and Wonders! Formal attire is mandatory with an accommodating mask. No entrance will be allowed without one's identity properly concealed. Every eligible person is to attend."
I gasped as I read it. She lied. "Every eligible person is to attend," I read aloud. I felt an immense sense of nerve rush through my fingertips. I heard footsteps trotting down the stairs with light and airy gayness. I put the invitation down back where I found it and pretended to appear busy with task. I turned around to find Anya fashioning what looked like an incomplete outfit. She stood in front of me poised with a green corset tied tightly around her. A frothy dress skirt accompanied the corset in a tasteful fashion. Her hair was somewhat styled, but it appeared unfinished. She fashioned a gleam of glitter around her eyes in a mysterious tone. She smiled lightly at me and walked forward slowly.
"I'm so sorry Julian," she said lightly while touching my shoulder, "It pains me to see the way she treats you. I tried everything I could, but, take this."
She handed me a small silver key with an open hole at the top. It had the appearance of age to it and I looked at her curiously. I felt like a new beginning was lying to the lock that partnered this key. As I looked back up at Anya she smiled once more and hugged me slowly. She kissed my cheek while whispering, "Everything can only last till midnight. Mother plans to be home around 12:30. Find the gray box that lies within your father's chambers. It will be of use to you."
With that final note, Anya turned and bounced her way back upstairs in light giggles. She was excited and so was I. I was curious to know what this key had in store for me. I quickly stuffed it in my pocket and began on my chores. Claudia had often called for me at various times throughout the night, until finally the sun had set and the moon had risen. I was standing in the parlor with great exhaustion after all the tasks Claudia presented me with. Most of them were completely mundane and unnecessary. I stared out the window and noticed the stars and the glimmer of the full moon. My gaze was interrupted by my Stepmother's cackle. I turned around and looked at the presence before me. My stepmother stood before me in full formal dress. Her hair was done up with wild volume. Her mask concealed her aged eyes but still penetrated anything that came across its way. The mask had a light gray fabric with some dark cloudy stones and short gold tassels dangling from them. Her form fitted dress was a smoky gray that varied from dark to light hues- sometimes almost constricted. The grays were at battle with each other. The swirls were able to intimidate any onlooker but I felt the whole dress pretentious. My stepmother no longer fooled me. She descended the staircase firmly while gazing at me from time to time. Following right behind her was Hugo with the same pretentious fashion as his mother. A nice dark suit and an accompanying mask concealed his imbibed identity. And if he wasn't drunk he soon would be. But, behind the dark clouds emerged a green goddess. Anya had slowly descended the stair right after her brother. Her corset was tied tighter than before and the fabric was pressed fashionably. Her bare arms were sparkling with glitter and her hands had sported green cloth that slithered up her arms. The tendrils had given Anya a newer confidence about her. The dress that lied beneath the corset has smooth and shimmery and was nicely complimented by green heels. Her hair was up in a bun with a few strands against her face. The strawberry color highlighted her pale but alive complexion. Her green mask covered her eyes but was sophisticatedly fashioned by plant green shadow. She was a vine in control, and her flower was near blooming. I smiled at the awe I had felt about her.
"It's a pity you can't go Julian," laughed Claudia, "but I'm sure there will be other times."
This weak statement was followed by a loud huff from Hugo and a noise of anger from Anya. I smiled sweetly at Anya, and gazed vehemently at my stepmother. I walked over to the door and opened it for them. I watched them all set out for the Manor while I replied to my Stepmother, "Don't worry, I'll be sure to attend at least one."
Claudia and Hugo laughed while Anya looked back in mysterious gaze. The night had begun and I had to transform into an unexplainable mystery. I raced upstairs and down the hall. I faced the door of my Father's room and I slowly opened the door. The room had emptiness inside it. It was a widow's room no doubt. A room filled with pain, anguish, unfinished business, and lost love. I made my way through the room and found the chest Anya had mentioned. It lay at the foot of the bed and I knelt down in front of it. The leather padded chest held the mystery inside. I rubbed my fingers across the lock and felt the energy of excitement come from it. I grabbed the key and entered it into the lock. I twisted with nerve and was met with a loud pop. The trunk had popped open with age and as I opened the trunk the creaks of time were made present. I looked inside and saw another key, but it was larger. I didn't understand. I grabbed it and stared at it. Where does this one go? It was larger than the first key and I couldn't think of which trunk it belonged too. I pondered for some time and felt defeated. Perhaps Anya was mistaken of the contents in the box. I sighed and decided to just go to sleep. I closed the box furiously and got up. My hopes were crushed and I trudged back to the tower. The noises of my steps were evident of my crushed hope. The scraping of the ground was just another reminder of failure. The night had tricked me and a cruel trick it was. As I entered the room I sat on my bed in disappointment. The window was open and there was no sign of my bird friend Bruno. The light breeze caused me to turn my face and stare at the wall. I noticed that a few things fell earlier when I had thrown my bracelet. I walked over to return everything to order until I noticed a trunk I had never given thought too. I went to pull the gold studded trunk from the wall and noticed its weight. I tried opening it and realized it was locked. My eyes glistened with hope as I felt the key inside my pocket. I took it out and felt a desire burning through my fingertips. For the second time that night I had turned a key in anticipation and was met with another opening. I pulled the dusty trunks lid open and wondered the contents of the inside. I looked and was met with a cloth wrapped tightly around something. I undid the cloth and was met with sheer answers. The contents of the box were a costume perfect for the night. The black suit was pitch black, detailed heavily in mystery. The gold embroidery was evident on the minute details around the seams. I smiled greatly and wondered the origin of this outfit that lay inside my tower. I looked further into the chest and was met with a white mask that had gold tendrils along the side. The mask was different as it only covered one side of my cheek, but my eyes were still concealed along with my forehead. My right cheek lay open to the mysterious air, but I found this convenient considering the wound on my face would be covered. My stepmother would have no way to identify me. I quickly got dressed with excitement. I felt the night had something in store for me. As I was putting the final touches on my appearance, the clock had struck eight times. I would be fashionably late, but if I hurried, I knew I would make it there in no time.
I scurried out of the tower and flew through the garden. I felt a light breeze aiding me in my efforts to fly and right beside me chirped my Bruno. I was quickly scurrying to the Governors Manor and decided to cut through the forest. The path wasn't that hard to find, thanks to Bruno, and the forest presence had echoed the theme of that night. I passed a shimmering lake that reflected the stars and distant moon. Mystery lay all around me, and for once in my life I was excited to not know what lay ahead. I felt the power of my father's bracelet but the looseness of it had concerned me. I figured it would be ok and I knew it wouldn't fall off without force. Through my quick scurrying and Bruno's helpful navigating skills I had heard the commotion of the event that was highly anticipated by everyone. Sudden parties were always the funnest I suppose since they captured the very essence of mystery. No one knew of the event until this morning and everyone was eager to solve their own mysteries. I certainly was.
I made my way out of the forest and back onto the road. I watch Bruno chirp me goodbye and he took off into the night. I gathered my breath and made my way to the Governor's home. I was met with the most ostentatious display of wealth and desire. The front of the Manor had been decorated by gothic flames that casted dark shadows, only causing the mystery to move forward. The epitome of curiosity was present. I made my way through the gate and slowly advanced to the mystery that lay inside. As I entered the luscious manor designed with mysterious features, such as crimson drapery and colorful floral arrangements, the crowds were all foreign to me. I knew no common face and I was lost in a sea of the unknown. I was met with curious glances by many, each giving silent whispers of approval and rejection. I slithered my way further into the heart of darkness. The party had also gathered outside. I walked down the golden hall and walked through two double glass doors, highly decorated with a neoclassical fashion. I walked out onto the balcony that had two stairs leading to the bottom of the outside patio on my left and right. I leaned over the edge to watch the sea of paper faces on parade. Everyone was at peace and comfort was felt through everyone. I had noticed that many people from the outside patio were staring at me. I slowly descended the stairs with masculine poise. I felt the eyes of many on me, and what was the most intimidating was that I didn't know who my judges were. The judgment was anonymous and it terrified me.
"Hello," a dark voice whispered to me.
I turned around to see Hugo standing right in front of me. I felt nervous and I immediately thought my cover was blown. I stood silently until he finally spoke again.
"Well, do you have a name?" he chuckled.
I laughed somewhat, but then I realized who was flirting with me. My stepbrother of all people. I still stared blankly at him and he began to fashion the common look of confusion.
"I'm sorry," I said softly, "I'm just parched is all."
Hugo smiled and bellowed out, "Well, let me get the handsome gentleman a drink. I'll be right back."
As he turned around I noticed blankness in his eyes. I knew I needed to escape from the position I was in. The sea of people was too difficult to maneuver through at times, but I had successfully escaped my current position of danger. I was wrong to think my stepbrother incompetent for he ended up mysteriously appearing next to me with a drink in his hands.
"Trying to run away from me are you?" asked Hugo.
I was startled by his sudden appearance and quickly answered, "No, I just, needed some air. I just felt compressed, that's all."
Hugo looked at me and I felt like he was beginning to catch on to my façade. He spoke slowly, "I'm sorry, but you seem so vaguely familiar. Have we met?"
I quickly answered, "No!"
He looked at me with suspicion until I finally gave an explanation of, "I'm sorry, it's just that I am staying with a cousin of mine, and I seemed to have lost him. That's all. I get nervous around people sometimes."
Hugo laughed with an unattractive masculinity about him and I immediately wanted to get away.
He put his arm around me with a horrible suave and said, "It's ok sweetheart. I promise I won't bite."
I nearly gagged in my mouth as I realized my incompetent stepbrother was hitting on me. I needed a quick get away, and fast. I needed something, or someone, to distract him with. At that moment I felt a green presence around me. I noticed Anya was slithering her way through the crowd and stumbled into Hugo.
"Hey, Anya! Watch where you're going!" sneered Hugo.
"Oh hush you bitter drunk! Oh is this your next victim? Hey buddy, if I were you I'd scram. Don't waste your time with this loser..." explained Anya. Her voice had trailed off and her eyes grew big as she stared at me. She knew who I was. And she looked frightened at the situation at hand. I mouthed the words, "Help me" to her. She coughed somewhat and regained her composure.
"Say, Hugo, mother needs you for a quick second," she said slowly but surely.
"Why?" he asked angrily. I don't think he was going to listen to her after her attempt to keep him from getting some type of sexual encounter. I grew tenser as the situation unfolded.
"Because, she just needs you ok. There's alcohol where she's at I'm sure. I'll keep your friend company. See look, there she is now!" replied Anya pointing at my Stepmother out of sheer dumb luck.
Hugo huffed something and made his way over to his mother while looking back at me with anticipation of a dream that would never come true. Me and Anya watched him wiggle his way through the crowd and out of site. I let out a loud sigh of relief.
"Oh my goodness, thank god he's a complete idiot! That was a close one!" cried Anya with relief.
"I know," I agreed slowly.
"You look wonderful though Julian! Now go! Escape! I try and keep Hugo occupied," said Anya with disappointment. She kissed my cheek and ran off. I was once again in my own little world and the population was just me. I maneuvered my way through the crowds again and more into the garden section. I was met with a wonderful display of flowers and a fountain in the center. The beige stone was beautifully constructed and the water shimmered off of it nicely. I noticed that I was alone and I felt uncomfortable. I started to make my way through the garden and I sat down on the edge of the fountain. I ran my fingers through the water and gazed at the moon. I got back up and decided to make my way back to the party until I heard a muffled sound of voices. I didn't want to be discovered for fear of it being Hugo so I made an attempt to hide. I went to turn the corner of the garden where I ran smack into the middle of a man much taller than me. He fell back and I fell on top of him. The sound of surprise and pain filled the air. I got up and muttered some sort of apology and offered my hand. As I helped the mysterious gentleman up I noticed his mysterious outfit to be very, appealing. He wore all black, with his suit really complimenting his broad shoulders and toned body. His mask was black too but with a crimson outline. His hazel eyes had penetrated my gaze and a sudden connection was felt. I slowly muttered a gasp of fate and stumbled a bit. The mystery man caught me and was saying something I couldn't understand. He smiled at me lightly and ran his hand across my face.
"You ok?" he asked with care.
"Yes," I replied.
He balanced me on my feet and I felt a light breeze of wind circle around me pushing me towards him. I fell closer to him and he once again caught me. His eye's never left my gaze though. I knew this man, I could tell by his eyes. The glimmer of a previous meeting flickered through our eyes. It burned with a desire that was unexplainable. The light of the stars echoed the desire felt. I smiled slightly and turned away from his everlasting gaze. The night had just begun, and I was already presented with a previous mystery that I was eager to solve.