Revenge, Riches and Redemption
PRINCESS OF ASTERIA
I twirled in front of the mirror, my silk gown shimmering in the candlelight. Tonight was the night of the grand banquet, and I couldn't wait to attend.
ERIKA ASTERIA
*excitedly* Father, may I attend the banquet tonight?
ERIKA ASTERIA
I've been practicing my lyre, and I'd love to play for our guests!
My father, Vivian Asteria, smiled at me. He was a tall, imposing figure with a strong jaw and piercing eyes.
VIVIAN ASTERIA
*smiling* My dear, you're too kind.
VIVIAN ASTERIA
Of course, you may attend.
VIVIAN ASTERIA
But remember, you're a lady, and you must conduct yourself with dignity.
ERIKA ASTERIA
*curtsying* Yes, Father. I'll be sure to make you proud.
VIVIAN ASTERIA
*sternly* And don't forget, Erika, there are those who would seek to harm us.
VIVIAN ASTERIA
You must always be cautious and stay close to your guards.
ERIKA ASTERIA
*confused* But Father, why would anyone want to harm us?
ERIKA ASTERIA
We're kind and generous to everyone.
VIVIAN ASTERIA
*serious* That's exactly why, my dear.
VIVIAN ASTERIA
Our wealth and influence make us targets.
VIVIAN ASTERIA
But don't worry, I'll always protect you.
ERIKA ASTERIA
*smiling* Thank you, Father. I know you'll always keep me safe.
[Just then, a servant rushes in]
SERVANT
*urgently* Forgive me, Your Majesty, but there's been an incident at the docks.
SERVANT
One of our ships has been attacked, and there are rumors of a rival merchant family involved.
VIVIAN ASTERIA
*grimly* I'll deal with this immediately.
VIVIAN ASTERIA
Erika, go to your room and stay there until I come for you.
ERIKA ASTERIA
*concerned* But Father, what's happening?
VIVIAN ASTERIA
*firmly* Don't worry, my dear. I'll take care of everything.
VIVIAN ASTERIA
Just go to your room and stay safe.
[Erika reluctantly leaves, unaware of the danger lurking in the shadows]
I made my way to my room, my mind racing with questions. What had happened at the docks? Why was Father so worried?
As I entered my room, I saw my mother, Helena Asteria, sitting on the couch, embroidering a beautiful piece of fabric. She looked up and smiled at me.
HELENA ASTERIA
*noticed the concern on Erika's face*
HELENA ASTERIA
Erika, my love, what's wrong?
I sat down beside her and told her about the servant's message and Father's worried expression.
She listened attentively, her eyes filled with wisdom and understanding.
HELENA ASTERIA
*said gently* Dear, you know that your father's business is not without its risks.
HELENA ASTERIA
But you mustn't worry.
HELENA ASTERIA
Your father is a clever and capable man. He'll take care of everything.
I nodded, feeling a little better. But then I remembered the look on Father's face.
ERIKA ASTERIA
Mother, what if something bad happens?
ERIKA ASTERIA
*voice barely above a whisper*
HELENA ASTERIA
*put down her embroidery and took Erika's hand in hers*
HELENA ASTERIA
A crown of gold draws eyes, my love—but not all of them kind.
HELENA ASTERIA
*her voice filled with a quiet warning*
HELENA ASTERIA
Remember that, Erika. True strength comes not from wealth or power, but from within.
I looked at her, feeling a sense of wonder at her wisdom. My mother was always so calm and gentle, but she had a deep understanding of the world and its ways.
I hugged her tightly, feeling grateful for her love and guidance.
ERIKA ASTERIA
Thank you, Mother.
ERIKA ASTERIA
I'll remember.
HELENA ASTERIA
*smiled and hugged back*
HELENA ASTERIA
I know you will, my dear.
HELENA ASTERIA
Now, get some rest. Tonight will bring its own challenges.
VIVIAN ASTERIA
Welcome, esteemed guests, to our humble abode.
VIVIAN ASTERIA
Tonight, we gather to forge new alliances and strengthen existing ones.
LORD LAURENTIS
*smirking* Vivian, always the gracious host.
LORD LAURENTIS
But let's not forget, we're not just here to make friends.
LORD LAURENTIS
We're here to discuss trade... and power.
VIVIAN ASTERIA
*smiling tightly* Ah, Lord Laurentis. Always a pleasure to do business with you.
ERIKA ASTERIA
*whispering to her mother* Mother, why does Father seem so tense around Lord Laurentis?
HELENA ASTERIA
*whispering back* It's just business, dear.
HELENA ASTERIA
Your father and Lord Laurentis have... differing interests.
JULIAN LAURENTIS
*watching Erika with intensity*
JULIAN LAURENTIS
Who is that beautiful young woman?
LORD LAURENTIS
*smiling* Ah, that's Vivian's daughter, Erika.
LORD LAURENTIS
A true gem, isn't she?
JULIAN LAURENTIS
*eyes fixed on Erika* I'll say.
JULIAN LAURENTIS
She's... captivating.
ERIKA ASTERIA
*noticed Julian's gaze*
ERIKA ASTERIA
Mother, who is that man staring at me?
HELENA ASTERIA
*following Erika's gaze* That's Julian Laurentis.
HELENA ASTERIA
Be careful around him, dear.
HELENA ASTERIA
He seems... ambitious.
VIVIAN ASTERIA
*clearing his throat* Shall we begin the feast?
VIVIAN ASTERIA
Tonight, we celebrate the prosperity of our great city!
LORD LAURENTIS
*smirking* Indeed, let us celebrate.
LORD LAURENTIS
But let us not forget, Vivian, that prosperity can be fleeting.
VIVIAN ASTERIA
*smiling* And now, my dear guests, I present to you my talented daughter, Erika!
VIVIAN ASTERIA
She will play for us on the lyre.
ERIKA ASTERIA
*nervously* Thank you, Father.
[Erika begins to play a beautiful melody on the lyre, and the room falls silent in appreciation.]
VIVIAN ASTERIA
*applauding* Erika, you've outdone yourself!
VIVIAN ASTERIA
Your music is as lovely as you are.
LORD LAURENTIS
*forced smile* Indeed, she is quite talented.
ERIKA ASTERIA
*whispering to her mother*
ERIKA ASTERIA
Mother, I'm so glad that's over.
ERIKA ASTERIA
I was so nervous!
HELENA ASTERIA
*smiling* You did wonderfully, dear.
HELENA ASTERIA
I'm so proud of you.
ERIKA ASTERIA
Mother, I'm so tired.
ERIKA ASTERIA
May I retire to my room?
HELENA ASTERIA
*smiling* Of course, dear.
HELENA ASTERIA
It's been a long evening. Get some rest.
VIVIAN ASTERIA
*kissing Erika's forehead* Goodnight, my dear.
VIVIAN ASTERIA
May your dreams be sweet.
ERIKA ASTERIA
Goodnight, Father.
ERIKA ASTERIA
Goodnight, Mother.
[Erika exits the grand hall, the sound of laughter and music fading into the distance.]
Author
This is my first ever story.
Author
If I ever make any mistake, please correct me.
ASSASSINATION???
NOTE:
*........* Actions
[.........] 3rd person's POVs
(........) Thinking
ERIKA ASTERIA
*sighing* Father, why must you always speak of business at dinner?
ERIKA ASTERIA
Can we not simply enjoy this fine meal?
VIVIAN ASTERIA
*smiling* My dear Erika, you may not care for trade routes and rival merchants, but this empire is your legacy.
ERIKA ASTERIA
*rolling her eyes* Legacy, legacy, legacy... That's all you ever talk about, Father.
VIVIAN ASTERIA
*chuckling* Ah, Erika, you're as fiery as your mother was.
VIVIAN ASTERIA
But one day, you'll understand the importance of our family's business.
[Erika's maid, Lila, enters the room.]
LILA(SERVANT)
*curtsying* Forgive me, sir. But Princess's music teacher has arrived for her lesson.
ERIKA ASTERIA
*excitedly* Oh, wonderful! I'm so glad I can finally focus on something I love.
VIVIAN ASTERIA
*smiling* Very well, dear. Go and enjoy your lesson.
VIVIAN ASTERIA
But don't forget, your responsibilities will come soon enough.
[Erika exits the room, followed by Lila.]
LILA(SERVANT)
*whispering* Don't worry, miss.
LILA(SERVANT)
Your father just wants what's best for you.
ERIKA ASTERIA
*sighing* I know, Lila.
ERIKA ASTERIA
But sometimes I feel like I'm suffocating under all these expectations.
LILA(SERVANT)
*smiling* You're strong, miss. You'll find your way.
ERIKA ASTERIA
*whispering to herself* I have to see it for myself.
ERIKA ASTERIA
Father's always talking about the market, but he never lets me go.
[Erika puts on a simple cloak and hood, disguising herself as a commoner.]
ERIKA ASTERIA
*excitedly* I'm actually doing it!
ERIKA ASTERIA
I'm going to see the market for myself!
[Erika walks through the bustling market, taking in the sights and sounds.]
ERIKA ASTERIA
*to a vendor* Oh, how much for the bread?
Someone
Vendor: *smiling* Ah, just a few coppers, miss.
ERIKA ASTERIA
*handing over the coppers* Here you go. Keep the change.
[Erika sees a poor family struggling to make ends meet.]
ERIKA ASTERIA
*to the family* Excuse me, do you need some help?
Someone
Poor Mother: *gratefully* Oh, bless you, child. We're struggling to make ends meet.
ERIKA ASTERIA
*handing over a pouch of coins* Here, take this.
ERIKA ASTERIA
It's not much, but it might help.
Someone
Poor Father: *tearfully* Thank you, miss. You're an angel sent from heaven.
ERIKA ASTERIA
*smiling* You're welcome.
ERIKA ASTERIA
Just take care of your family.
[Erika continues through the market, feeling a sense of purpose and compassion.]
ERIKA ASTERIA
*to herself* I had no idea it was like this. Father's world is so different from this one.
[Erika stops at a stall selling fresh flowers.]
Someone
Flower Vendor: *smiling* Welcome, miss! Fresh flowers for you?
ERIKA ASTERIA
*smiling* Oh, yes! I'll take a bouquet of those beautiful roses.
Someone
Flower Vendor: *handing over the bouquet* Here you go, miss. You have a kind heart.
ERIKA ASTERIA
*smiling* Thank you. I just want to help.
[Erika continues on her way, feeling a sense of fulfillment and purpose.]
VIVIAN ASTERIA
*to his guard* I want extra security around Erika at all times.
VIVIAN ASTERIA
I've received intel that there's a plot against our family.
Someone
Guard: *nodding* Yes, sir. I'll make sure to increase the guards around her.
ERIKA ASTERIA
*to her maid* What's going on? Why are there so many guards around me?
Someone
Maid: *nervously* I don't know, miss.
Someone
Maid: But your father has ordered extra security for you.
ERIKA ASTERIA
*frustrated* But why? I hate being cooped up like this.
LILA(SERVANT)
*soothingly* I know, miss. But your father just wants to keep you safe.
[Erika's carriage suddenly lurches to a stop.]
Someone
Coachman: *yelling* Whoa! The wheel's broken!
ERIKA ASTERIA
*alarmed* What happened?
Someone
Coachman: *shrugging* Must've been an accident, miss. We'll get it fixed right away.
[Later that day, Erika feels unwell after eating a meal.]
ERIKA ASTERIA
*to her maid* I feel terrible. This food must've been spoiled.
Someone
Maid: *concerned* Oh no, miss! Let me get you some water.
ERIKA ASTERIA
*frustrated* This is ridiculous. First the carriage, now the food. What's going on?
LILA(SERVANT)
*reassuringly* It's just a coincidence, miss. Don't worry.
ERIKA ASTERIA
*uneasy* I hope so...
[Erika tries to rest, but is awoken by a loud noise.]
ERIKA ASTERIA
*startled* What was that?
LILA(SERVANT)
*rushing in* I'm so sorry, miss! It was just a servant dropping a tray. No need to worry.
ERIKA ASTERIA
*nervously* Okay... I think I'll just go for a walk in the gardens.
ERIKA ASTERIA
I need some fresh air.
[Erika walks in the gardens, feeling uneasy and trapped.]
ERIKA ASTERIA
*to herself* I hate feeling like I'm being watched all the time. I just want to be free.
[Suddenly, Erika hears footsteps behind her.]
ERIKA ASTERIA
*nervously* Who's there?
Someone
Guard: *appearing from the shadows* Just me, miss. Your father's orders. I'm to keep an eye on you at all times.
ERIKA ASTERIA
*sighing* Of course.
ERIKA ASTERIA
*to herself* I'm so glad I finally got some time to myself.
ERIKA ASTERIA
This old library is so peaceful. I can finally focus on my music.
[Erika hears a noise behind her. She turns around, but sees no one.]
ERIKA ASTERIA
*to herself* Must've been the wind.
[Erika hears the noise again, this time louder. She turns around, and sees a figure emerging from the shadows, dressed as a servant.]
ERIKA ASTERIA
*backing away* Who are you? What do you want?
SERVANT(SPY)
*smiling menacingly* You shouldn't be here, Princess Erika.
SERVANT(SPY)
You're a threat to our plans.
[The servant lunges at Erika with a poisoned blade.]
LILA(SERVANT)
*rushing in* Princess, watch out!
[Erika tries to dodge, but the blade grazes her shoulder.]
ERIKA ASTERIA
*collapsing* Ahh...
[As Erika loses consciousness, memories flash through her mind.]
ERIKA ASTERIA
*Thinking* Mother's smile... Father's laughter... The market... The music... Julian's eyes...
ERIKA ASTERIA
*thinking* (Is this how I'm going to die? Alone, in this dark library?)
ERIKA ASTERIA
(I never got to say goodbye... I never got to tell Father about the market...)
ERIKA ASTERIA
*whispering* Mother... Father... help me...
[Erika's thoughts become jumbled and disjointed as she fights to stay conscious.]
ERIKA ASTERIA
*whispering* I don't want to die... I want to live... I want to see the world... I want to fall in love... I want to have children...
[Erika's vision begins to blur, and she sees her parents' faces in front of her.]
ERIKA ASTERIA
*whispering* Mother... Father... I'm sorry... I'm sorry I didn't get to say goodbye...
[Erika's voice fades away, and she loses consciousness.]
Someone
(groggily) Where... where am I?
[A man across the table slams his fist down.]
MAFIA RIVAL
*yelling* Enough games, Taylor! Do you want the deal or not?
ZOE TAYLOR//ERIKA ASTERIA
*looking around* (What's going on? Who are you?)
[Erika finds herself seated at a metal table, wearing an unfamiliar leather jacket and combat boots. Her hands rest on something cold and metallic—a gun.]
ZOE TAYLOR//ERIKA ASTERIA
*seeing the gun in her hand* (What... what is this monstrosity in my hands?)
ZOE TAYLOR//ERIKA ASTERIA
*staring at the mafia rival* (Who's Taylor? What deal?)
[Erika freezes, staring at the man, then at the gun, and then at her reflection in the shiny table surface. Her mouth falls open as she sees Zoe’s face staring back.]
ZOE TAYLOR//ERIKA ASTERIA
*thinking* (This is not my face! These are not my clothes! What devilry is this?)
MAFIA RIVAL
*impatiently* You deaf now, Taylor?
MAFIA RIVAL
You used to have guts. Don’t tell me you’ve lost your edge.
ZOE TAYLOR//ERIKA ASTERIA
*completely confused* Edge? I… well… I do not believe I possess such an item.
MAFIA RIVAL
*stunned* What did you just say?
[The room goes silent. Everyone stares at her as if she’s lost her mind.]
MEET SAM
SAMANTHA LEE//SAM
*whispering* Boss, are you okay?
SAMANTHA LEE//SAM
You're acting real... off. Just nod and say the deal's good.
ZOE TAYLOR//ERIKA ASTERIA
*nervously* Yes... the deal. It is most agreeable!
MAFIA RIVAL
*skeptically* Agreeable?
MAFIA RIVAL
Since when do you talk like a schoolteacher?
MAFIA RIVAL
You sure you're okay, Taylor?
ZOE TAYLOR//ERIKA ASTERIA
*awkwardly* Oh, you know, one must expand one's vocabulary! The spoken word is an art form, after all.
MAFIA RIVAL
*raising an eyebrow* An art form?
SAMANTHA LEE//SAM
*interrupting* Enough chit-chat.
SAMANTHA LEE//SAM
The deal's good. Let's wrap this up.
MAFIA RIVAL
*sighing* Fine. Let's get down to business.
ZOE TAYLOR//ERIKA ASTERIA
*confused* Business? What business?
SAMANTHA LEE//SAM
*glaring at Zoe* Just... just go along with it, boss.
ZOE TAYLOR//ERIKA ASTERIA
*awkwardly smile*
[As the meeting ends, Sam drags Erika outside to their car.]
SAMANTHA LEE//SAM
Alright, boss, let's get out of here.
[Erika stumbles, unused to Zoe’s combat boots, nearly falling face-first.]
ZOE TAYLOR//ERIKA ASTERIA
*stumbling* Whoa... what's with these weird shoes?
SAMANTHA LEE//SAM
*laughing* Seriously, boss, what's with you today?
SAMANTHA LEE//SAM
Did you hit your head or something?
ZOE TAYLOR//ERIKA ASTERIA
*dramatically* I… I believe I may have hit my head quite severely!
SAMANTHA LEE//SAM
*chuckling* Okay, boss. Let's get you to the car.
ZOE TAYLOR//ERIKA ASTERIA
*looking at the car in horror*
ZOE TAYLOR//ERIKA ASTERIA
WHAT IN THE WORLD IS THIS CONTRAPTION?!
SAMANTHA LEE//SAM
*bewildered* It's your car, Zoe.
SAMANTHA LEE//SAM
You drive it every day.
ZOE TAYLOR//ERIKA ASTERIA
*incredulous* Drive it?! You mean... operate it?!
ZOE TAYLOR//ERIKA ASTERIA
Like a carriage without horses?
SAMANTHA LEE//SAM
*dying laughing* Boss, you're killing me!
ZOE TAYLOR//ERIKA ASTERIA
*getting in the passenger seat*
ZOE TAYLOR//ERIKA ASTERIA
I refuse to touch that... that... wheel thingy.
SAMANTHA LEE//SAM
*stunned*
SAMANTHA LEE//SAM
You're not serious right now?!
SAMANTHA LEE//SAM
You're Zoe Taylor, and you don't know how to drive?
ZOE TAYLOR//ERIKA ASTERIA
*haughtily* Of course, I know!
ZOE TAYLOR//ERIKA ASTERIA
I simply prefer... to be chauffeured today.
SAMANTHA LEE//SAM
*face-palming* This is going to be a long day...
[Back at Zoe’s penthouse, Erika paces in front of a massive mirror, examining Zoe’s reflection. She pulls at her leather jacket, frowning.]
ZOE TAYLOR//ERIKA ASTERIA
*to herself* Ugh, these garments! They're so... tight. How does one breathe?
ZOE TAYLOR//ERIKA ASTERIA
*picking up the gun* And this!
ZOE TAYLOR//ERIKA ASTERIA
What sort of weapon is this?
ZOE TAYLOR//ERIKA ASTERIA
It's heavy, ugly, and utterly impractical!
SAMANTHA LEE//SAM
*entering the room* Boss... are you talking to yourself?
SAMANTHA LEE//SAM
And why are you holding your gun like it's going to bite you?
ZOE TAYLOR//ERIKA ASTERIA
*freezing* Ah, yes!
ZOE TAYLOR//ERIKA ASTERIA
I was merely... admiring its craftsmanship.
SAMANTHA LEE//SAM
*skeptical* Craftsmanship?
SAMANTHA LEE//SAM
It's a Glock, not a piece of art.
ZOE TAYLOR//ERIKA ASTERIA
*nervously* Oh, yes! Of course!
ZOE TAYLOR//ERIKA ASTERIA
I was just... testing its balance.
SAMANTHA LEE//SAM
*raising an eyebro* Testing its balance?
ZOE TAYLOR//ERIKA ASTERIA
*defensively* Yes! One must always ensure that one's... tools are in good working order!
SAMANTHA LEE//SAM
*shaking his head* Boss, I think you've been hit on the head or something. You're not making any sense.
ZOE TAYLOR//ERIKA ASTERIA
*to herself* What is going on? Where am I?
[As Erika tries to figure out her new surroundings, she hears a voice in her head.]
ZOE TAYLOR'S SOUL
(in Erika's mind) Hey, princess, what the hell are you doing in my body?
ZOE TAYLOR//ERIKA ASTERIA
*startled* Who said that? Reveal yourself!
SAMANTHA LEE//SAM
*concerned* Uh... Boss, no one said anything.
ZOE TAYLOR//ERIKA ASTERIA
*panicking* What's going on?!
ZOE TAYLOR//ERIKA ASTERIA
Am I going mad?!
ZOE TAYLOR'S SOUL
*Thinking* (Nope, not mad. Just unlucky. Because you’re about to get yourself killed in my world.)
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