>>5984801Fighting the wave of dizziness, you grapple the closest non-dead thing. “Your weakness, don't let them see. Many here wish for your destruction.” For the first time, you are relieved to hear Yamir's Shanghaian, a fitful reminder of humanity's continued existence outside. “Who are they?”
“All who had been given to the Feast. Ancestors, enemies, criminals.” Enemies? It couldn't be... Your eyes frantically search up and down the walls and columns for any excessively round skull. “Behind you.” Yamir's claws squeeze painfully around your throat, choking the scream back down your lungs. “They were moved into this corner long ago, away from their compatriots' prying eyes.”
Instinctively, you feel sharp claws sink into your flesh, hear blood dripping into the waiting bucket, see candles swinging on the chandelier above. Yamir's vise-grip loosens obligingly to your index finger's slight pull. “Were they still alive?” The pitter-patter slows down. “Yes, but they felt nothing. What do your people say? Enough for an ell-le-fant.” You pinch your thighs. Good, the pain's still there.
Suddenly, the candles all went out. “He's here.” You can barely make out a massive shadow floating down the central aisle. The shadow stops between the wing gaps and turns around, sweeping the room with its gaze. Your eyes lock for a long moment, or maybe it is meant for Yamir.
Just as sudden, from behind the butterfly gallery, light of every colour flood the room. The figure also spreads its own wings, adding to the majestic display. A herald hisses loudly, “From surface below arrives. His Lowness Kosyt-Hysret. [Overlings], kneel/humiliate!” Immediately, all the Hys present bend their legs straight and press their belly flat onto the ground in supplication. Yamir does the same, but under a crack in his exoskeleton, you notice the torn stems of once-wings shuddering in remembrance. What happened?
Now you are certain Kosyt's attention is fixed on you. You who refused to kowtow to the queen. And who will once more show her respect with but a bow. Whether he is angry or satisfied, you could not tell. Eventually the wings fold back behind the Keeper's torso, signaling everyone to rise again.
