Chapter 1: The Burning Empress
These flames I march toward burn. I know my flesh will melt and charr, but I feel hollow. I know I will scream against my will. As Reina thought Tears slowly drifted down her face. She glanced up to the skyand then turned her glazed to the wooden platform.
Emperor laughed while sitting on a higher platform. " Pfft pitiful woman. Are you praying now?"
A breeze swished by causing the woman's wild long black hair to sway.
She sighed heavily before raising her head. "How many times do I have to burn? How many times do I have to die? I am tired, my Lord." Reina bowed and pulled at the corners of her dress Curtesing, she then slowly raised staring directly at him. "My heart aches. I have protected and let you use me. I am done being your empress in this life and the next."
Reina released her dress. She moved her hands to the end of her dark red corset. She tugged Hard a few times, ripping the clothing item off and tossing it aside.
A few guards mobilized to stop her. They trembled, approaching with spears.
Reina grabbed a spear on the end with her right hand. Her hand clutched around the sharp edges. Her blood leaked dripping down on to the wooden platform. With her left hand she undid her long flowing skirt, allowing it to fall unceremoniously to the ground. Another guard trusted his spear on her. He jumped back immediately.
The emperor's breath picked up. His eyes widened . "Empress Reina Hopestride. I gave you dignity to die in front of a small gathering. I command you to cover yourself up."
Reina's once tearful eyes narrowed. Theie redness stood out against the setting sun. Her voice soft and deadly. "I am dignity." Sje removed the last of her clothing including her shoes. She spun in the small room. Her bare feet ING harshly against the wooden floor. Her hands wandered around her body smearing the blood from her palm. "These scars, are the sins I committed protecting you." Reina poked her stomach. "Poison meant for you. I drank, rendering me infertile." She tapped her neck. "An assassin sent to kill you at midnight. There are many more. I have no shame, only regret." She turned on her heel and advanced toward the flames. Reina tilted her head to the side, throwing the emperor and his New woman one last glance. "My regret is giving everything to protect a pathetic child. You do not deserve my might."
Lillian's eyes wondered between the Emperor and Reina. "Roland."
Roland eyed his new empress. He squeezed her hand tightly and Reina threw herself into the flames screaming, laughing, and crying.