Page 36 of A Kiss of Deception

"How is this possible?" I murmur, almost to myself.

Meetha's lips curl into a satisfied smile. "In this realm, reality bends to my will. Impressive, isn't it?"

We continue on, crossing fields of flowers that sing in ethereal voices. Their haunting melody sends shivers down my spine. As we approach a river of liquid starlight, I can't help but ask, "Why are you showing me all this?"

"Patience, Milkor," Meetha chides gently. "All will be revealed in time."

After what feels like hours of traversing this impossible landscape, we finally arrive at a massive structure that seems to be made of pure, solidified shadow. Meetha places her hand on the obsidian-like surface, and a door materializes.

"Welcome," she says, a hint of pride in her voice, "to my greatest achievement."

As we step inside, I'm unprepared for the sight that greets me. My jaw drops as I take in the vast chamber before us.

Rows upon rows of glass cases line the walls, each containing a different creature. Orcs, vampires, elves, even humans – all frozen in various poses, like living statues.

"What is this?" I growl, unable to hide my shock.

Meetha glides between the cases, her fingers trailing along the glass. "My collection. Every creature that's caught my eye over the centuries."

I follow her, my skin crawling as I pass by the imprisoned beings.

"You're insane," I spit out.

She turns to me, her smile predatory. "I prefer to think of myself as a connoisseur of the unique and powerful."

I stop in front of a case containing a particularly fierce-looking orc. "And what? You just keep them here for your amusement?"

Meetha shrugs. "Sometimes I let them out to play. But they always return to their cases in the end."

A chill runs down my spine as I realize the implications of her words. "You're a monster."

She laughs, the sound echoing through the chamber. "Says the demon."

I whirl on her, fury burning in my veins. "I may be a demon, but even I have limits. This is... perverse."

Meetha's eyes flash dangerously. "Careful, Milkor. You're in no position to judge me."

She steps closer, her presence overwhelming. "Besides, you should feel honored. I've collected creatures from all across the realms, but do you know what's missing from my collection?"

I swallow hard, already knowing the answer. "A demon."

18

MEETHA

Milkor's silver eyes blaze with fury as he glares at me. His pale skin flushes with anger, making him look almost alive. I can't help but smirk.

"You," he snarls, teeth bared.

I twirl the ring on my finger, feeling its power pulse through me. "Me," I agree.

He lunges forward, but I hold up a hand. The air around him shimmers, and he freezes mid-motion.

"Now, now. Is that any way to treat your new mistress?"

A growl rumbles in his chest. "Release me."

I tsk. "I don't think so. You're far too valuable to let go."

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