Chapter 23: Cordelia

The ten of us spread across the hall stage. Somehow I ended up being in the center.

I always enjoyed the haunting nature of this song. It is both seductive and terrifying. I again feel an intense gaze burning into my skin. I feel completely exposed and on display even if my dress is exceptionally modest.

The slow and steady beat of the drum begins to pound.

“Go on,

Go on and break my heart.

Go on,

Go on and break my heart.

I am not worthy of your heart my king” the singer’ sorrowfully croon.

Our bodies moving seductively to convince him otherwise.

“Go on,

Go on and break my heart.

Go on,

Go on and break my heart.

Burn the funeral pyres.

I cannot live without you” the singers continue to plead.

Our arms extended above our heads like flames as we spin and pound our feet to create the jingle of the bracelets. The drums and the bells like a beating heart, pleading to be loved.

“Go on,

Go on and break my heart.

Go on,

Go on and break my heart.

Reject me,

Plunge your sword into