"A Tale of Alkayna (Mass execution & beheading) « on: October" By robblu (https://pastebin.com/u/robblu) URL: https://pastebin.com/9GWaVbjn Created on: Thursday 26th of October 2017 09:03:22 PM CDT Retrieved on: Saturday 31 of October 2020 03:17:22 AM UTC A Tale of Alkayna (Mass execution & beheading) « on: October 23, 2017, 07:34:40 pm » Quote Plot summary: This is a game of thrones kind of archetype where the ladies of three houses come up with a plan to destroy their enemy. Unfortunately their plan requires the forfeit of their own lives as well. The first chapter is just back story so you can skip that if you are just interested in the snuff. Chapter 1: The Plot. (Back story & build up) Chapter 2: The city square. (Mass beheading Spectators) Chapter 3: Up the steps. (Close up & First person Beheading) Chapter 4: The fate of the maid. (for later) Chapter 5: A girl’s unfortunate arena contest. (for later) I openly welcome all feedback, good , bad and ugly. As well as any corrections since my grammar is not the best. Chapter 1: The Plot It is the year 1236 in the kingdom of alkayna. A little know medieval state with surprisingly developed social, legal, and technological system. My story begins with a plot to do what all those in power wish to achieve, more power. As I am a lady of the high court my involvement in these matters is seldom relevant. Most of the time a high warlord will emerge, gain the confidence and trust of many allies, then wage a bloody conflict for control of more territory, subjects and political power. However as of late most of the nine large houses are in a military statement. Both have achieved fortifications and supply routes that make direct conflict horribly unproductive. No lord will risk the lives of his men in an endless siege. The true power now lies in economic negotiations undertaken in the high court. Much of the discussion falls to the ladies of the court, such as myself. We are emissaries sent to negotiate and reach compromises in matters of trade. No lord will openly discuss trade in the court as any agreement made can be seen as a sign of capitulation and weakness. Thus the wives, daughters, and sometimes concubines of the royal court are sent with specific objectives and information to further the interests of their houses. This negotiation is done within the palace of Amber. She is one of our feminine goddesses and within her palace no men are allowed, not even eunuchs. This mostly ensures an un coerced place of negotiation. Although most of the high court ladies spend time bathing, receiving massages and drinking sweet wine. Not I. The most intelligent of the houses select their female companions based on aptitude and ability, not birthright. The great, great, great, grandfather of my adopted uncle realized that intellect is the most valuable resource a lady can bring to the court, not a dowry. Many of the heirs that married a wench of high birth for land or resources end up with children that quickly squander it and bring ruin to their houses. Thus my house, house Crescent, always arranges marriages to those women who have proven themselves in either the academy of science or any one of the many trade or military guilds. Being born to a noble couple is almost a disadvantage as you must prove yourself under high scrutiny to even be eligible for any inheritance. I am unmarried. At 22 years old this is a bit unusual, however my uncle who adopted me and gave my standing in the high court assures me that my betrothal is not far off. Unfortunately for the past two years I doubt this matter has even entered his mind. House Brevin, one of the nine royal houses and general controller of most iron ore has been stockpiling forged weapons for the better part of a year. Our spies have seen large stockpiles of armors, swords, shields and various siege equipment. This would not be alarming usually as prolonged siege of any walled city is impractical however our explorers have been steadily bringing in supplies of spices and unique fabrics from far off lands. We can only assume they are planning to offensively expand into more primitive territory. Knock Knock I hear the noise at my door and place down my quill. A maid servant enters and announces: “Lady Joan of house Orlon” My friend gracefully enters the room. “This again, If your diary or reflection’s get into the wrong hands it could mean death for us all.” Says Joan. I fold my parchment and quickly place it into a lock box. It is of wonderful design. The box opens by aligning cylinders in the right order not with a key which any servant can sneak away. “Don’t be so paranoid, I have trusted maids watching my quarters at all times.” I said. “In these times there is no such thing as too paranoid. I need your help friend. I would like you to meet with me, my sister and the twins from house Stanton this evening.” Joan said. “What is this about?” I said. “I have a proposal that could spell the end for house Brevin. It will come at a high cost but we can bring them to their knees!” Joan said. “Very well, shall we meet at the usual place?” I said. “Yes, and please from now on, no more writing. Keep your thoughts between your ears. It is the only place they are safe.” Said Joan. Later that evening at an undisclosed location in the palace of Amber. “So here we all are. Let us swear that no one shall take any of this outside of this room on pain of eternal damnation!” Joan said. “I swear” I said. “I swear” Jenny and Heather said in unison. “I swear” Maria said. “Very well. I shall begin.” Joan said. “We are all hear for one purpose. To see an end to the proliferation and inevitable military expansion of house Brevin into the barbarian territories. Although each of our houses have tried negotiation their new leader Elka is unmoved by the most lucrative of proposals. However, sisters, I have recently discovered their vital weakness. You all know of Elka’s husband, lord Umbstof. My spies have confirmed that he is as riddled with leprosy as the rumors say. Elka as you know like us has been raised to her position due to her intellect and marshal ability. She is effectively in control of all operations of house Brevin” Joan continued. “Probably due to her elder husbands conditions she has not yet been with child and there is no news of this possibility. Nevertheless to secure her place she will take a stable boy lover sooner or later and produce an heir. We cannot let that happen. If we remove her the effective leadership and operation of the house will fall to her husband who will be unable to bear the burden.” Joan said. “We have explored this path before. An assassination attempt is impossible. She has maids that prepare and taste all her food. She has amongst the best trained guards with her at all times. Any attempt would be foolish and produce repercussions.” I said. “There is a way. We cannot dispatch her directly ourselves, however if she was sentenced to die by the high court all the houses would support the decision.” Joan said. “And how would we achieve that. Framing her for any significant crime would be impractical and again the repercussions if the plot was discovered.” I objected. “Just hear me out. We need not get her sentenced directly we can undertake our own sacrifice and have her be collateral damage.” Joan said. “How?” Said jenny of house Stanton. “We arrange for the botanists from house Stanton to procure some potent poisonous extracts. These are passed on to the old matriarchs of our three houses. Amongst their evening tea time the poison can be used to contaminate all their drink. All the matriarchs will fall at once. This will prompt an investigation that will be deemed fruitless as those who perpetrated the crime are already dead. Furthermore as it will take place in the palace of Amber only the other ladies of the high court can be suspects. We will have to undertake the plot on a day of celebration where there will be the highest attendance and confusion within the palace.” Joan said. “So we will instigate an unsolvable conspiracy. The judges and inquisitors of the high court would not be able to determine the perpetrators and hence they cannot issues a sentence.” Heather said. “But they can, and they will. I will provide hints via my spy network to the lord judges to be skeptical of all the ladies of the court. The conspiracy will seem insurmountable. They will have to universally punish all the ladies of the high court.” Joan said. “By punish you mean execute?” I said. “Yes but it will be a noble death as befitting our high stations. We will not be stripped and send to the dungeon or gallows like the commoners. Most likely they shall use the French machine. Its quick and effective.” Joan said. “With one swift blow we shall cripple house Brevin. I have two heirs already as does my older sister Maria. My sacrifice is a small price to pay.” Joan continued. “Not all of us have had the fortune of marriage and heirs yet” I said. “The reason house Crescent has not betrothed you is that they fear further division of their assets and lands. They already have six lord families with heirs. They won’t likely add a seventh no matter what your uncle keeps telling you.” Jenny said. “We all have sworn to lay down our lives for our houses.” Joan continued. “Although us ladies really get the privilege to do this on the field of battle this is our change to strike a vital blow to our enemy. We should take it” I had always dreamed of being able or fit enough to participate in battles. This did sound quite different though. “You all would seriously consider this? Why did you even consult me? A suicide plan hardly needs spectators.” I said. “But we do need your godmother the grand matriarch of house Crescent to co-ordinate the tea plot. We know even at 72 years of age her mind is still sharp and she will ensure as many old and retired ladies of the court will be there.” Joan said. “So house Stanton provides the poison. House Crescent provides the organization. What does your house provide Joan? I sneered. “House Orlon, besides proving the plot and information, will provide Jacob, one of our many loyal servants. He is now lieutenant to the high executioner. He can ensure our enemies are dispatched first and we arrive late to see this. Also he will ensure our transition takes place with dignity.” Joan said. “I do not think there is anything dignified about being tied down a wooden board and having a blade slice your head off.” I said. “I must also say it does not sound very appealing” Heather said. “Perhaps falling in battle is more dignified to you? Being stabled or sliced over and over until you lose the strength to stand. Having your enemy stand over you and slowly place their blade through you. How is that more dignified compared to a clean and fast slice?” Joan said. “But we are not on the battlefield. This responsibility is not required of us women!” Heather responded. “We may not be on a battlefield but we are at war. I suppose most ladies do not realize this until a conquering horde has breached their own keep. Perhaps it would be more apparent to you once the soldiers of house Brevin are within your bedroom. Where they may take what the please of you while holding their blade to your neck.” Joan said. I shuddered slightly. It may have appeared that Joan was overdramatizing our situation but every few years one does hear stories of a keep from a minor house being taken. Even the best fighters from house Crescent have publicly described their exploits. “That is enough. We cannot decide this tonight. Let us all take time to reflect and reconvene later.” I said. “We cannot take too much time. My youngest sister becomes a liable adult on her eighteenth birthday on October 16th. That is five months from now. The plot must be carried out and execution passed before that date. I propose we take two weeks. Reflect upon this ladies and we shall then reconvening here” Joan concluded. Two weeks later There I was at another secret meeting. My mind had been racing for the past fortnight. I had spoken to so many members of my house, informants, and lords of the high courts. All I concluded was that the threat from house Brevin was real. I thought of the childhood stories of great warriors that went up against unwinnable odds. How did they fight knowing they could not survive. Here I stood, having to do something so simple comparatively and a was petrified. Joan broke the silence. “Let’s not mince words. All we require is a unanimous decision. Say yes or no. I say yes for myself and on behalf of my sister Maria who is unable to be here tonight” After a slight pause Jenny said “Yes”. Shortly after her sister Heather said “Y.. Yes”. I wanted more time. I was still paralyzed with indecision. Three sharp gazes were pointed at me. “Allright yes!” I blurted out, feeling a surprising amount of relief even though I just signed my death warrant. “It is done then. The plot shall proceed as planned. We should all thank the gods for this opportunity. We have never felt the thrill or fervor of battle, but we shall experience what it is like to give our lives for our houses. Let us undertake the plot immediately.” Joan said. “You all do realize that even if this plot is successful we will all perish in a gruesome way. I saw a few criminals dispatched on the French machine this morning. It’s now called the guillotine. It was horrifying. One moment they had heads and the next it was gone.” I said. “And I’m sure they felt a great rush of exhilaration after being parted. It is common knowledge that the closer you are to death the more alive you feel. Rather than suffering countless blows and the discomfort of the enemy’s swords and arrows piercing your flesh, you get a quick end. The machine is so quick it leaves the head essentially undamaged. Jacob has used it several times and he said he can see the consciousness in the eyes of the condemned for minutes afterwards. He describes their passing as them appearing tired and drifting off into sleep.” Joan said. “I’m glad you are so optimistic” I said. Could Joan really believe that losing your head would be an enjoyable experience? Everyone I have seen dismembered in our fighting arenas has wailed in pain or torment. Surely a neck is a larger part to sever from the body than an arm or foot. How could it not be painful? Perhaps severing the spine shocks the body enough to lose all feeling. But then there is the rest of the neck. It must at least be as painful as having your throat slit. But it does happen very fast… Gah I did not wish to think of this further. I stood up and said: “So be it. Let us all undertake our parts immediately.” Report to moderator Logged gfd4000 Newbie * Posts: 4 View Profile Personal Message (Offline) Continued « Reply #1 on: October 23, 2017, 07:35:26 pm » Quote Meeting with Jacob The last month had been a blur. The plot had worked so quickly and smoothly it was surprising even to me. Me and Joan were now walking to meet her contact the executioner’s lieutenant. “Hello, Jacob so wonderful to see you again.” Joan said. “Always a great honor milady.” Said Jacob. “Although Jacob was not able to be indoctrinated into our house he has always served us so loyally ever since my father supported his education in the martial arts.” Joan said. “There could be no other path that duty demanded” Jacob said. “Well Jacob my house requires your services yet again” Joan said. “As I have often told your father I would lay down my life for your house at his beckoning.” Jacob said. “I thank you for that however it is not necessary. All we require is you perform your duties as an executioner to the highest standard.” Joan said. “Milady I have always done so, when do you require my services?” Jacob said. “I do not. The high council of judges will issue a decree very soon. It will stipulate that all ladies of the high court be put to death by beheading. We require you to selectively come and collect six of those ladies. Myself, my friend here and four others.” Joan said. “That is unbelievable. But I assure you of my upmost loyalty. On the day of the execution I shall come collect those you require and take you far away wherever you desire. My men are trust worthy and will help us in this Endeavour.” Jacob said. “Excellent I knew I could count on your loyalty” Joan said. “Where shall I arrange to take you too on the day?” Jacob said. Joan showed a small smile and then said. “Take us to the boxburry Inn for a round of drinks!” “But milady that is but a few blocks from the central square where they are bound to host the execution! You will surely be caught.” Jacob said. “No we won’t because after we have our drinks, you shall take us round to the end of the line and personally oversee our executions.” Joan said. “Wha…”Jacob said. “You need not think unto this further. Your task is only to ensure we arrive late enough such that we may witness the other ladies of the high houses meet their end before us. Those of house Brevin to be specific.” Joan said. “But milady if you know of ..” Jacob said. “Now is not the time for selecting a course of action. Tell us how long shall it take for all 150 of the ladies of the high court to be guillotined?” Joan said. “Um.. well, let me see… If it is truly a spectacle and with so many…. I would expect the high executioner would have each head off in less than a minute and a half.” Jacob said “So close to four hours then.” Joan said. “Well not exactly, there would be breaks. Usually they take five or six up the platform. Execute them then clean the platform, put the bodies on a cart and prepare for the next group.” Jacob said. “Very well therefore so if we arrive around 2pm most of the houses would be in the line already and we can witness their end?” Joan said. “Yes but most of the high executioners lieutenants would be told to have their charges present before noon milady.” Jacob said. “I’m sure but you can always say the streets were crowded, you were delayed, make any excuse. Since you will be showing up with your full charge I don’t think the high executioner will give you too much sanction.” Joan said. “His will would not matter my hand is yours to command.” Jacob said. “Very well then it is settled ensure that Jenny and Heather of house Stanton, my friend here and my two sisters are collected and brought to the platform at 2pm on Monday the 17th.” Joan said. “It shall be done milady” Jacob said. The court’s decision After almost three months of deliberation and endless debate amongst the lords of the high houses the decision came down. Those with the most wisdom wasted little time deliberating in the court and spent most of their time acquiring prospective new ladies of the court for their houses. My uncle wanted a seamless transition so he had already prepared paperwork for adoption and marriage of high quality women from the commons which he would submit the day after the execution. The grand inquisitor judge issued a written proclamation: “After much deliberation, the court has come to the conclusion that all corruption shall be swiftly rooted out and punished. It is with a heavy heart that we condemn all current ladies of the high court in their eighteenth year or older to death. The sentence shall be carried out on Monday the 17th of October.” it read. That was more than two months away. I could not understand why the delay. Then it hit me. Joan’s youngest sister Alice and holder of a significant dowry from house Orlon was born on the sixteenth of October. In fact she would be turning eighteen this year. The date had been deliberately manipulated to include her in the roster of those sent to the guillotine. I wonder if this had been the work of house Brevin or if her own house decided to use this opportunity to dispatch her. She had always been weak and unintelligent which could result in future instability of the house. It did not matter really. I arranged a meeting with Joan to see how this would impact our plan. Meeting with Joan Alice, Joan’s youngest sister was a slim girl of weak constitution. She was always pale and had no bosom to speak of. She was very childish although now at 18 years of age she should be an adult in every sense of the word. I could not imagine she would be so upset at the news. When Joan told her the High Judge’s decision she was hysteric. She screamed and cried for almost three days straight. Joan decided not to tell her about the true plot as it would only upset her more. I met with Joan and the Stanton twins a week after the decision. “How is your sister taking the decision” I said. “Horribly, It was an utter bit of evil to arrange it this way. I really hope she composes herself on the day and does not completely dishonor house Orlon” Joan said. “Just give her a draught of the sleep tea before and she will be all relaxed.” Said Heather. “How am I supposed to do that? We will probably be waiting in line for two hours before it’s our turn. I doubt there will be a tea maid available. Also seeing head after head roll will not add to her relaxation.” Joan said. “A blindfold then.” Said Heather “Let’s not be cruel” Jenny said. “She is very young and full of spirit, she feels cheated by this as she did not choose it as we have. Let us try to make her transition easier. I know we have to decide so let’s to it now. I will go first. Then my sister should go. This will set an example and not cause to much anticipation between us.” Jenny continued “Hey, don’t just go volunteering me” Heather said. “Honey you know I love you but we have to show some decisiveness. Just arrange the order now and so be it. It is a matter of a few minutes difference.” Jenny said. “Fine, and who goes next?” Heather said. “Alice goes third. She would have seen our example and Joan and Maria can help calm her before her turn. After that it really does not matter what the order is.” Jenny said. “I think that can work” Said Joan. “So to not appear indecisive I can go fourth, then my sister can go fifth” “And that leaves me for last” I said. “I’m not complaining but I wonder if it really is the best position to go” “No point discussing this further, at least you won’t have another head dropped on yours.” Said Joan. “That is a plus.” I said with distinct irony. “Now that that is settled I think it is best we do not interact socially for the next few months. The date is set and we do not want any last minute changes to the plan.” Joan said. “Very well so we shall all meet in the line on Monday the 17th?” I said. “No, remember my friend Jacob. He will come gather us and take us in a group. This way we can ensure we go in the right order and that we arrive late enough to see Elka’s head roll before ours” Said Joan. “Very well, I shall see you all on the 17th. Give my best to your houses and may we pray this course of action brings the prosperity and stability we desire for our houses.” I said. Report to moderator Logged gfd4000 Newbie * Posts: 4 View Profile Personal Message (Offline) Chapter 2 « Reply #2 on: October 23, 2017, 07:35:53 pm » Quote Chapter 2: The city square. I woke up really early. The sun was not yet up and it was profoundly dark. I lit a few candles and went to my mirror. It was truly a wonder from the Far East. The silver had been polished so smoothly I could see an almost perfect reflection. My long auburn hair went down in front of my gown almost to my bellybutton. I rang the bell for my Talya my maid servant. A few minutes later she arrived. “Yes mistress?” Talya said. “Can you please go downstairs to the grand clock and tell me what time it is?” I said. Later when she came back she said: “It is four and one quarter hour in the morning my lady”. Four and a quarter hour in the morning I thought. If the execution starts at noon and there are one hundred and fifty ladies of the high court, one and a half minute per lady is over two hundred and thirty minutes or just over four hours. That means I only had twelve hours left. It seemed so few and I definitely did not want to spend any more of them sleeping. “Please do my hair up, curled and tight in a bun.” I said. It took longer than I was expecting. My maid worked diligently to raise and style my hair. I told her to keep making it smaller and tighter. Once she was finished I told her to leave and tell me the time again. It was 5:30 in the morning. Less than eleven hours now. It felt surreal. I looked in the mirror. My face looked quite pretty with my hair up. My long neck was highlighted. I was staring at my neck in the mirror. I placed my hands on it. It was warm, soft yet sturdy. I found it hard to imagine that in an instant it would be severed. I shivered slightly. I wondered what I would look like without a head. It was hard to imagine. My gaze kept coming back to my face. Oh well I shall see soon enough I thought. Or maybe I won’t once my head drops in the basket all I will see is other heads. The executioner does show the head to the crowd however that doesn’t mean I will see my body. It would be lying somewhere on the platform beneath my gaze. Jacob is Joan’s man, perhaps I could ask him to show me. It would be a strange request but if what Joan had said was true and I had minutes of consciousness after there was plenty of time. I decided to ask. I untied my robe and dropped it to have a good look at myself in the mirror. My body was well rounded a bit plump but not excessive. I wished I would have participated in the fighting arts more so I could be and leaner, but no matter now. If I had been born a man I would have been proficient in the fighting arts. I loved studying the strategy and technique. I was even acceptable in the children’s arena games. However as my feminine physique lacked the strength for real combat I would have no effect on the battlefield but to give blood to my enemies. Some women are quite proficient fighters but they are lean and fast. I was never that quick and agile. I had the build of a bruiser. Not too tall but well built. With my hair up my breasts were fully exposed. They were large and yet still quite firm. I took a fighting stance I had learned in my youth. My upper body was quite muscular and firm. I picked up a knife I kept near my bed and swung it in some offensive strokes. I watched my form in the mirror as did some of the strokes. The form was good, well balanced well positioned. However I was distracted by my breasts jiggling around with each stroke. Large breasts although appealing to look at are quite distracting and painful when moving quickly. In any real combat I would have to bandage them up tight before. Which would make it harder to breathe deeply again making me less effective and slower. So my destiny is not an enemy’s blade piercing my flesh. I won’t feel the adrenaline of battle and only one stroke will end me. I shivered again.I put that out of my mind and called for Talya to dress me. I selected a white and blue dress with bare shoulders. It promoted my cleavage nicely and I also placed my house insignia on the seam between my breasts. I wanted it known who I sacrificed myself for. I was about to walk outside when I noticed how pale Talya’s face was. “Why so scared? You need not go down to the city square today.” I said trying to present a demeanor of bravery. “Milady, wh.. what do you think will happen with us maid servants?” Talya said. “You were not in the palace the day of the plot so don’t concern yourself with such things.” I said. She did not look too relived. She was not clever enough to reach a high position within house Crescent but she definitely surmised that in the next few days the streets and gates of the city would be decorated with the hanging bodies of all maid servants from the palace. They would probably take their time with the less important servants for logistics purposes. But undoubtedly as she was known to be my personal maid she would be dangling for the gallows within a week or two at the most. I caught myself staring slightly at her slender neck and then quickly turned and walked out. That neck will definitely break on the gallows. Then again the bastards of the common judicial system almost always hoist their victims up to get a better show. I should remind Jacob to take care of her with some more respect when the time comes. I walked to a narrow hill near my estate where I could watch the sunrise. Some time later. I felt the warm sun on my face and quickly jolted to my feet. The sun had been up for some time almost approaching mid day. I could not believe it. I had fallen asleep on the grass outside. I ran to the house and asked my door man. “Has Jacob come yet?” “No milady, he is expected at noon and it is but 11 in the morning.” I felt relief and uneasiness at the same time. Jacob had not come yet however there were less than four hours left. I felt faint and went to the kitchens. Having some warm tea and biscuits revived me and just as I was calming down I heard the call. “The executioner’s lieutenant is here!” The doorman announced. I rushed up again, walked to the front of the house and saw a somewhat grim carriage with Jacob at the reigns. I was relieved that he had managed to arrange himself to be our executioner as planned. He hopped down and opened the clasp on the door. Inside I saw my five compatriots, they looked rather uneasy. All had their hair done up to expose their necks. Maria and Heather also had bear shoulders like me. I thought I would break the silence first. “Well it looks like a clear and sunny day today at least.”I said. “Good it will give us a clear sight of the fall of our enemy.” Joan said. I looked towards Alice. She was whimpering softly. Even though she didn’t know of the plot it did not appear she gave any heed to what Joan just said. “Let’s enjoy our drinks first, we need a good two hours delay by our plan.” Jenny said. At the BoxBurry in. Joan was clever in selecting the Inn. It was very close to the city center but almost empty as it was a day of execution and everyone had already rushed to the town square. The barman came over and said. “Greetings ladies, you all look of noble stock, ye best not be out in public lest ye be caught with the others being rounded up today.” “We are not worried of this; bring us some ale, your best wine and sweet wine along with some biscuits.” Said Jacob. After the refreshments were placed at our table we all slowly sipped and nibbled at them. We had but a few hours left and conversation was scarce. Perhaps the weight of consequence was bearing down hard on each of us. I too seemed to be confined within my own mind and rarely glancing at others or the food. Ding! Dong! The town square church bell rang nearby. I felt as slight relief as Jacob gestured us up and to get going. We quickly got back into the carriage and drove to a guard house on the square corner. We walked in through the back via a room which had its entire floor covered with hair. Maid servants were there to cut it off anyone stupid enough to wear their hair down to their date with the guillotine. This was not necessary for us so we walked by and out into the square. It was pandemonium. A roaring crowd cheered and jeered loudly every minute or so. From the guard house we saw an empty corridor in front of us maintained by three layers of soldiers on either said. The rest of the square was full shoulder to shoulder. As we walked along the path we saw the great scaffold ahead. Large and surprisingly tall with its death instrument perched on top. As we arrived from the back of the scaffold we could see several ladies standing on it along with other assistants and their uniformed executioner. An open cart passed by. I turned to peer inside. I saw the bare feet of six ladies lying down in the cart, some on top of each other. I assumed they no longer had heads. “Where are they taking them?” I said. “They will be dumped in lesser squares where the commoners can scavenge their clothing. Afterwards pig farmers have been informed and will come to collect the feed.” Jacob said. Oh gods. I supposed feeding our remains to livestock was an effective boost for animal growers but it really freaked me out. Best not to think about it further. We approached a small makeshift double gate that opened to a subdivided area of the square where all the remaining ladies of the court were waiting. “Before I leave you please take off your shoes, rings, jewelry and anything of value except your house emblems. You may toss them to the crowd.” Jacob said. “Leave us? Where are you going?” Joan said. “My duties require that I process quite a few groups today. But do not worry just wait in the line and as you approach the scaffold I shall come collect you and take you up as a group.” Jacob said. He gave us a quick salute then went past the line of soldiers and towards the other side of the scaffold. We walked in towards the cordoned off area for the high court ladies. It was quite large as we were not crowded at all compared to the mob. As we walked closer to the platform we saw an opening where we could see the front of the scaffold. We were close and had a great view but I felt uneasy watching. We saw every minute a head pop out of the lunette between the two large rails of the guillotine. The lunette would be locked in place and then the executioner would stand to the side to give the crowd the full view. He pulled a clasp on the right rail and the blade fell with a rumble. It fell so fast and the head beneath it seemed to fall with it immediately as it hit the bottom. It was rather anti climatic. You could not see the expression of the head in the basket. A moment later the executioner would pick up the head by the hair and hold it high in front of the crowd. He would walk from the right to the left of the platform before tossing the head back in the basket. “Do you think Elka has gone yet?” Joan said. “She is quite clever and would probably not want to arrive on time either.” Heather said. I looked around those waiting in line but did not see her. Then I saw the next group of ladies walk up the platform all wearing the traditional green dress of house Brevin. “There she is on the platform.” I said. She was third in lane and had an expression of pure scorn on her face. “I think she really cannot believe this is happening to her.” I continued. “She does not need to believe it, just to experience it” Joan said. I was amazed at the efficiency of the executioner’s team. It was less than a minute between each head falling. The longest part of the process was displaying the head to the crowd. During that time assistants would remove the last body, clean, and tie in the next person. Elka’s head appeared through the lunette, still looking scornful as ever. I felt my heart racing in anticipation. The blade dropped with an audible Thud since the crowd had quieted down slightly. Perhaps they were aware of her higher station. I felt an instant relief. I was almost expecting her head to not fall. “It is done. Our plot has succeeded. Glory be amongst our houses.” Joan said. I squinted to take a good look at Elka’s face as the executioner held her head high. Her expression was dazed and relaxed. No scorn, no vile actually quite pleasant yet a bit pale. With this expression I realized just how beautiful she had been. It looked like she no longer cared and was contempt with her fate. Was what we had done worth it? Now that it was all over I did not feel different in away. I felt no overwhelming sense of achievement or pride. Suddenly the exploits of house Brevin seemed less important to me. I felt a flush of panic and a bit light headed. I had to take a knee and place my hands on the ground to compose myself. “It’s all right, we succeeded. Everything went according to plan.” Heather said kneeling beside me. I took a deep breath stood up and said to Joan. “Can you wave to Jacob we should go next I do not wish to wait in this line any longer.” Joan glanced at her sister Alice who seemed to be losing what was left of her composure minute by minute. “Very well lets go.” Joan said grabbing Alice’s hand and guiding her towards the scaffold. It was surprisingly easy to advance in the line everyone moved out of the way and we were shortly beneath the scaffold near the steps. Joan spotted Jacob nearby and waved to him. “You are here so soon? I was expecting you within an hour or so.” Jacob said. “It’s best we get this over and done with, can you take us up as the next group?” Joan said. “Let me speak with the list master.” Jacob said while headed over to a short man upon an elevated desk with a large roll of parchment. As Jacob spoke to him I saw him cross out some names from his parchment. Jacob walked back and gestured to his assistants. They quickly came over with cords of thin rope in their hands. They were quite gentle as they placed my hands behind my back wrist on top of wrist. They rolled my sleeves up a bit then started to lace the cord around my wrists. After a few loops one of them pulled tight and my hands felt as they were locked in a vice. I felt my fingertips and palms of my hands go numb. I immediately felt the urge to scratch my face. I thought of complaining but I would only have to endure this discomfort for ten minutes maximum. The last group of ladies had finished and an attendant was walking down the steps with the large basket in hand. As he walked by me I got my first close up look at the severed heads within. They all seemed so fresh and life like. Some witches even claimed if they had a sufficiently fresh head they could sow it back on and breathe life back into the person. Perhaps I should have spoken with a witch about this, but then who knows how long my head would wait in the basket before someone from my house could recover it. Why do I think such foolish things? Across the other side of the platform I could see the bodies of the last batch being loaded onto an open cart. Each one with a vivid red stump between the shoulders. I found my eyes drifting to the bosoms of those wearing low cut dresses. Not having a head seemed to accentuate the cleavage some of the ladies had on display. I looked down towards my own breasts. They were pressed up and together by my corset making them appear even larger than they were. I took a deep breath and watched them rise and fall. Pity to lose these I thought. As I looked up I saw Jenny, Heather and Alice were already on the stairs climbing them awkwardly with their hands tied behind. I took a few quick steps to get in line behind Joan and Maria. As I stood at the base of the stairs I looked up. I know I’m not coming back down at least not in one piece. I shivered slightly. Before taking my first step I turned to Jacob who was standing beside me and leaned closely. “Can you please do me two favors?” I said. “What do you require milady?” Jacob said. “Please see that my maid Talya gets a respectable end if it comes to it.” I said. “I shall give her kindness but she will have to end by the manner befitting her station if sentenced. What is your second favor?” Jacob said. I flushed a bit red. It was now or never to ask. I don’t know why I would be embarrassed I would be technically dead when he would do it. I blurted it out. “Can you, p please, show me my body afterwards?” I said. “Of course milady, it is not that uncommon of a request. Although no one really knows how much you will see.” He said kindly. I felt a bit relived turned right around and took my first step up the scaffold. Report to moderator Logged gfd4000 Newbie * Posts: 4 View Profile Personal Message (Offline) Chapter 3 « Reply #3 on: October 23, 2017, 07:36:26 pm » Quote Chapter 3: Up the steps My legs felt heavy as I walked up. The platform was at least 15 feet high but it felt much higher. With my arms tied behind my back I was off balance and kept leaning forward. Once I reached the top I felt weak and winded even though it had only been a few steps. We instinctively lined up in the arranged order: Jenny first, then Heather, Alice, Joan, Maria and finally me. Jacob walked over to Jenny first and I was relieved to see he had not accidentally got the order backwards with me first. “All right ladies, keep your heads high and accept this fate with dignity and you shall be well remembered and revered by your houses.” Jacob said. Heads held high… I nearly laughed. Perhaps he was trying to be funny as he knew damn well all our heads would shortly be very low on the ground in a cheap farmers basket. The guillotine looked larger and more menacing up close. The blade had to rise up at least 10ft. I wonder if that much height is really necessary for our thin necks. “Once we get started we want to move along rather quickly. You’ve seen the line up and the pace and I really do not want to appear to give any special favors.” Jacob said. “We understand, let’s get it done fast” Joan said. I had opened my mouth to speak but thought to better leave it at that. I glanced over at Alice. Her face was violently quivering and tears were streaming from her eyes. Damn, I thought we should have just had her go first. Jacob put his hand on Jenny’s arm and lead her towards the bascule which had a table that was upright. She stood in front of the table as assistants tied her down with two belts. One around her back and one around her hips. As the assistants tightened the belts, she turned her head slightly towards us and said: “See you all in the basket” Immediately after the table was rotated horizontally and she was rolled forward into the lunette. Jacob pressed the top part of the lunette down on her neck. We heard a roar of the crowd as her head emerged. Jacob waved to the crowd and gestured towards Jenny’s head. “Chin down and take a deep breath.” Jacob said. I could not see Jenny’s head past the lunette, but saw as her torso expanded by taking a breath. Her last breath. As she began to exhale Jacob pulled a switch, the blade jerked then fell with a rumble. It took less than a second to hit the bottom. Thud. I was not sure if I saw Jenny flinch at all. The assistants moved in to untie the belts. Jacob bent over and reached inside the basket. From my perspective behind the guillotine I could not see if Jenny’s head was still attached. I had seen many illusions with guillotines when a blade fell and left the victim unscathed. This was no illusion as made clear when Jacob lifted Jenny’s head and showed it to the crowd. I could not see her facial expression as it was turned towards the crowd. Jacob walked around the front of the platform displaying it then casually tossed it back into the basket. I hope that did not hurt. However it would have probably hurt less than the blade falling. The assistants rolled Jenny’s body off the table and towards the right side of the platform. They untied her arms and crossed them on her chest. I saw below a fresh empty cart had arrived. “See no big deal.” Heather said turning to Alice. Alice was leaning on Joan and almost loosing the strength to stand. “It will be over soon honey, watch me.” Heather said as she took almost a skip step towards the now upright table. I was in awe of her courage. As they strapped her in I saw her shiver slightly. Perhaps it’s harder to be brave once you’re strapped down. As before she was tilted forwards and rolled into the lunette. “Chin down and take a deep breath.” Jacob said. I saw Heather take a deep breath immediately. She did not want to wait. Neither did Jacob he released the blade. Thud. At the same moment Alice’s legs gave out, she collapse to the floor and started to cry out loudly. Joan tried to comfort her but it was no use. Jacob came up to Joan and said: “I closed their eyes they look peaceful” “Please just hurry.” Joan said. Jacob waved at his attendants they came quickly and grabbed Alice by the armpits. The sudden jolt stopped her crying out. They half lifted half dragged her to the table which had remained horizontal. As Alice was very light and small they effortlessly placed her on the table with her neck in the lunette. Jacob did not lower the top part of the lunette. I saw him immediately reach for the release clasp. Alice had just turned her head downwards and uttered a piercing shriek. Thud. It was cut short by the blade. “Thanks goodness.” Joan said. “Hopefully the roar of the crowd drowned that out” Joan said. Things were moving too fast. Three already gone and Joan was taking slow steps to the table. I wanted to tell her to slow down but I could barely stand. Maria had a stern look on her face. Perhaps she too was upset by her younger sister’s weak demeanor. Thud. Oh goodness, I quickly turned around to see Joan’s head in Jacob’s hand. He was parading it as usual across the stage. I really need this to slow down, I thought. Maria was already taking small steps towards the bascule. As Joan’s body was rolled off it joined the other three in a lineup, lying down on the platform. I wished I could see their necks but all I saw was dirty feet from this angle. “Wow there are a lot of heads in this basket. Are you sure I will fit?” I heard Maria say. “Don’t worry, a head really bounces out of a half full basket” Jacob said. As he reached for the release latch. I turned around looked towards the platform stairs and the end of the square. I could run. Thud. But I would probably just trip down the steps. My legs felt so wobbly. “Alright your turn.” I heard Jacob Said. That was so fast I had not even noticed the blade fall on Maria. “But wai…” I was about to say until I saw her body was already rolled to the floor and the table was upright. “Come on, get it done quickly, don’t let the anxiety build up.” Jacob Said. He was probably right. I took a deep breath and briskly walked over to the table. A small wooden box was placed at my feet. I stood on and pressed my body against the table. My neck was exposed just at the end of the table. I suppose they had different sized boxes for different heights. That makes it convenient, I thought. The assistants had already buckled the belts around me and one pulled the top belt tight. I felt my breasts squeezed hard against the board. The other pulled my thigh belt tight forcing my hips in tight contact. I was about to complain again but the table quickly turned horizontally and was sliding towards the lunette. “Chin Up.” Jacob Said. I looked at him and was about to ask why. Then I felt myself slid over the lunette as the bascule bottomed out on the rail mounts. I saw Jacob reach for the top part of the lunette. But before I could focus on that my gaze fixed on the basket. There they were. Five of my friends. It was surreal to see their heads like this. Jenny and Heather with their eyes closed looked like they may have been taking a nap. Alice like she was about to cry and yet sleepy. Joan and Maria both had their eyes half open and looked as if they had indulged in too much wine. You would expect to throw some water in their faces and they should wake up. That is until you see their neck stumps. There was surprisingly little blood in the basket. Just a little oozing out of what was left of them. Thud. Ouch. I thought as Jacob pressed the top part of lunette against my neck. I heard him lock it in as I tried to regain my breath. I looked straight ahead. I could not see the crowd, just heard their noise and saw the end of the raised platform we were on. I turned slightly to the right and saw Jacob standing behind the right rail. This is it, I thought. It is inevitable now. I was actually surprised to have had the courage to pull this off. Perhaps I still did not fully comprehend the consequences of the next few moments. I saw a shadow move on the ground and my heart went racing. I don’t think it had ever beaten so fast. “Chin down and take a deep breath” Jacob said. “I’d like too but then I know what happens next, perhaps I will take my time” I said. “You can but it is a long line up, and the crowd is waiting. Do you really want your personal vanity to deter their satisfaction?” Jacob said. I couldn’t care less about the crowd but what was coming had to happen. I thought I would be brave and leave an impression if I could. “Fine, Of I go then.” I said. I was mad that my voice quivered a bit as I said it. But no point trying to change that now. I briefly closed my eyes and tilted my chin until I could feel the damp cold wood right underneath. I opened my eyes and began taking a long breath. I wished it would be as long as possible, however after my lungs were fully expanded I inevitably began to exhale. I heard a click then a rumbling above. I knew what was coming and closed my eyes tight and tensed my jaw. Thud. It happens so fast, faster than I anticipated. A blinding hot flash jolted up and down my spine. I felt a flash headache with an intense numbness throughout my entire body. I could barely process it until I hit something soft and warm face first. I abruptly opened my eyes. My vision was a white blur. Things came into focus rather quickly. I could see Maria’s somewhat paler face in front of me. Her eyes still rolled towards the top of her head. My mouth and tongue felt numb, I tried to close my mouth but it responded slowly. My vision quickly shifted to Maria’s neck, or what was left of it. A short stump that seemed to be receding into her head. I thought I would have a similar appendage now just as my hair was abruptly grabbed. The world was spinning and a bright flash of light hit me in the eyes before everything leveled off. I felt nauseous as a white light obscured my vision. I felt the muscles in my throat tense up as if I were to throw up. But nothing came up. Instead I was now more aware of a searing pain and burning sensation in my throat. It felt like someone had lit a gentle fire beneath my chin that was warming my entire head. I felt out of breath and needed to breathe. I closed my eyes and opened my mouth again. I expected to feel my lungs expand but all I felt was numbness beneath my chin. The world seemed to still be moving. Enough, I said to myself. It’s done. Count to three and then enjoy the last sights of the world. 1,2,3. I opened my eyes. The bright white light subsided and I was surprised at my visual acuity. I was looking out over a crowd. May people cheering and happy yelling out. My hearing seemed muffled but I could see perfectly clearly. It was as if I had received a shock of clarifying adrenaline. Time seemed to move slowly. Perhaps Joan was right and this was the most alive I had ever felt. I was determined to make the most of it. The crowd was turning before me. I had no control of my motion but I could anticipate what was coming. Jacob would parade my head around the platform then show me my desire. I so wanted to see it. The crowd dulled me. I did catch the expression of some of the remaining ladies of the court waiting in line. They seemed pale, shocked, and not even a little gleeful. I honestly thought at this point my situation was not so bad compared to what they must be going through. I was liberated. I had no worries, no anxiety. But before I could think anything else my world spun around towards the platform. The table was clear; I was no longer on it. Two stock boys were washing the blood off with buckets. I was taken around the guillotine and saw the lineup once again. There were six ladies lying down, almost as if a sleep. It took me a moment to realize the one in the blue dress farthest to the left was me. As Jacob brought me in closer I noticed my hands were untied and folded neatly over my abdomen. Right above them on my chest was the family crest I had work so hard to secure. It was standing proudly upon two ample breasts. I had never noticed how large my breasts were until I was looking at them up close from below. “It’s always a shame to throw these away” Jacob said. As he grabbed my right breast and gave it a tight squeeze. I wondered if he knew I was still conscious. I thought I should be outraged, but I felt nothing of his grip. That was not me anymore, just a dead body. My eyes kept gazing towards where my head was supposed to be. But there was nothing there; it felt so surreal, almost as if I was not convinced this was me. “Well here you are my lady. I hope it was not too unpleasant” Jacob said. While he orientating my vision towards my neck stump and bosom. The burning in my neck was not as intense as before. From this perspective the wound seemed massive. A large circular red pulp with several cut tubes still leaking gently. I felt the urge to through up again as I thought that this is what remains beneath my chin. I focused upon my cleavage. It was truly beautifully. Its pale white colour contrasted with the bright red of the stump. I wished I had allowed more men to enjoy it before my end. “XghaXjassjgh Shja ASJKK sjkahGW” I heard Jacob say. I could no longer distinguish the words. My vision began to blur again. I felt a slight jolt as I landed back in the basket. As my vision began to fade I gently closed my eyes again. I thought it best to look peaceful and not scare the children with a blank death stare. As planned we were all at last together, sharing a basket. I felt a primal rage building up inside me. How could I have let it end like this? As my mind began to drift, filled with rage and despair I was sure of one thing. This was not worth it.