Date: Sun, 18 Apr 2010 15:15:55 -0700
From: Jordan Faulkner <jfaulkner1992@hotmail.com>
Subject: Romeo and Julian 4

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.