Monday, February 23, 2009

Nadir: Masquerade Party



"So, whom are you masquerading?" asked Adam.

As promised, he showed up in front of my dorm exactly at 8 pm. Not a minute less. In his hand held a beautiful blossomed red rose, as if it was just being plucked from a sacred garden.

"Me," I answered, plain and simple.

I knew very well what the costume's representing. It symbolized the untouchable power of Princess Sophia, the great ruler of Zenba Empire from the ancient history. It was first worn at the beginning of her victory, and later for each success. Of course, as expected, it was Natalie who spilled all the details while preparing me. I could say she did quite an awesome job. The costume really represented who I was - the great power.

I stared at Adam's Medieval costume. He donned a chaperon with an arm long for its cornette tail and patte, wore a black scholar gown and perfected it with a knee-high boot. Even though it seemed a little funny, it did made an attractive ensemble on him.

"Beautiful rose for a beautiful lady," said Adam, handing me the flower.

I accepted, but startled for a moment. What was I supposed to do with it? I was never been given a flower before. Should I leave it in my room or should I bring it to the party? Do I have to hold it all the time? Ah, talking about unencumbered...

"Thanks," I finally said, still confused.

"Shall we?" asked him, extended his left arm.

I smiled, reached his arm and decided to bring along the flower. We walked towards Crystal Hall, the main hall of the citadel. That's where the party was. From the outside, I could already smell the vibes of hundreds of people.

The moment we walked in, the vibes doubled. This time, all eyes were fixated on me. I didn't have to be a rocket scientist to explain the behavior. Natalie had already warned me the price of accepting Adam's invitation. The reaction of the crowd would be either hate it or love it.

But I wouldn't care less. If they chose to dislike me, so be it. I didn't come here to win people's heart. I only have one motive and I would do anything to achieve it. Anybody who would get in the middle of my way, won't be tolerated. Even if they were hundreds of them. Nothing would stop me.

I looked at Adam. He seemed so cool and relax. It didn't bother him at all with the unwelcome attentions he received. I turned my head to another side. I could see Natalie waving excitingly at me. At least I knew she was in the love-it side.

My eyes kept on scanning the whole crowd, seeking for one particular person. But I could not spot him anywhere. I refused to believe that he wasn't there, especially when he actually became the eyes and ears for The Master.

One hour had passed. The jealousy circulated around me, didn't seem to fade away. I realized now, it won't be a smooth path for me. Not anymore. With Mark, and now, the hate-it crowd, all I should expect was more and more obstacles.

-to be continued-