Power of the Heir's Passion (Andy Smithson Prequel Novella) Read online

  ***

  Five hundred years later…

  Imogenia sat reading a book at a table in the castle’s spacious attic. Her father sat quietly nearby in an overstuffed armchair, slowly rubbing two fingers up and down his temple. On the coffee table next to him sat a tall Grape Pop Jack from which he took an occasional sip as he was watched her. Finally, he interrupted the silence. “I’ve seen your brother learn from his mistake and grow wise as a result of the curse.” He sipped his foaming drink. “Honey, I think it’s time to end this punishment.”

  Imogenia looked up from her book. “I don’t want to end the curse yet,” she said in an even tone. “Kaysan killed me.” She paused several seconds, then added, “He deserves everything he’s getting!” Her pitch rose as she spoke.

  “I understand how you feel, honey, but think of the people of Oomaldee. They were my subjects and I have always felt responsibility to care for and protect them. It’s been over five hundred years after all.”

  Imogenia did not respond.

  “I’ve supported the punishment. Your brother needed to pay for what he did. I don’t disagree. He was a jealous, scheming fifteen-year-old. But the people did nothing wrong. All these years you have used them to punish him. It is enough. It’s time to move on.”

  Imogenia stood up, holding her book. “I’m sorry, Father, but I do not agree. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’m going to read in my room.” At that, she disappeared through the wall.

  Several weeks later, Imogenia overheard her parents talking over breakfast. Her father indicated, “I’m going to take this up with the board. Imogenia still refuses to even talk about ending the curse, and it’s just not fair to the people of Oomaldee. They should no longer be subject to Kaysan’s punishment. I made it clear at the beginning that I wanted the people released from the consequence as soon as possible. That time has long passed. Imogenia is not being reasonable.”

  “Do you really think that’s wise? This could hurt our relationship.”

  “Believe me, I’ve thought long and hard about this. I honestly believe she never intends to end the curse, and it’s just not right. Who’s looking out for my subjects?”

  “You always were one to stand up for your people,” the queen said, smiling.

  “I would be irresponsible if I sat back and did nothing while they are being oppressed.”

  “I know you’re right, dear. I’m just concerned for our family.”

  At hearing this, Imogenia’s eyes narrowed and her jaw clenched.

  A few days later, the tall, balding Agent Puddington made another of his regular visits to check on the progress of the beta test. As always, he wore a dark, see-through trench coat and carried a thick notebook under one arm.

  After routine questions to Imogenia regarding her satisfaction with the curse’s progress, the king interrupted. “Agent, the curse has been in effect for over five hundred years now, and I have seen my son learn and grow from it. I believe he feels remorse and repented of his crime long ago. Its purpose has been achieved. The only thing that’s happening anymore is that the people of Oomaldee suffer. As I stated at the beginning, I wanted them released as soon as possible. It’s not fair to them.”

  “Father!” exploded Imogenia. “This is my curse to do with as I please!”

  Agent Puddington looked up from his notes. “Am I to understand you are withdrawing your support?”

  “Yes,” the king replied, glancing over at Imogenia.

  Imogenia fumed but did not utter a response.

  The queen glided over and put a hand on her husband’s shoulder.

  “Are you also withdrawing your support, ma’am?”

  “Yes,” she replied, drooping her shoulders and sighing. “I’m sorry, honey. I happen to agree with your father. It’s time for this to end. It’s not fair to the people, and someone needs to take a stand for them.”

  Imogenia glared at both of them, shaking her head in disgust.

  Agent Puddington broke the tension. “Very well, let me file my report with the board. You will be informed of next steps shortly.”

  At this, the agent closed his notebook, stood, and floated out through the wall. Imogenia fled from the room, silver tears streaming down her cheeks.

  A message arrived later that day addressed to King Hercalon IV, his queen, and Imogenia. It read:

  Concerning: Beta test #7253 – The curse of Hercalon V, King of Oomaldee

  The Board hereby requests the presence of all parties to discuss the progress of said beta test, as well as the request of King Hercalon IV and his queen to withdraw their support.

  Hearing time: Four hours past sunrise, twelfth day of the new moon. Parties should arrive twenty minutes before the appointed hour.

  Signed,

  Felius Dudge, Esq., Chairman

  Board of Afterlife Affairs