Ecstatic

The girl smiled radiantly and sat up in the bed. "But it's true, your majesty! I am the statue, brought to glorious life!"

Jastina looked from Joan to the other girl. "I admit there is some resemblance, but still..."

"But I can prove it. You had me taken from the throne room to the sub- basement below the dungeon. When I became animated, I was stored behind a cask of very cheap burgundy wine from the western kingdom and that chair your sister gave you that you don't like."

The Queen's jaw worked silently for a moment. Finally, she exclaimed, "A trick! It has to be some sort of - a - a trick?"

A she spoke, the final proof presented itself as a pair of delicate wings unfolded themselves from the girl's back, extending themselves so they nearly stretched the full length of the room.

"She is the Spirit of Ecstasy!" Joan exclaimed.

"Indeed I am, my dear Joan." Ecstasy replied. At her shocked look, she smiled again and said, "Oh yes, Joan, I know your name - and your true name as well. I know many things."

"But - but how did this happen?!" Jastina asked. "And why are you here with - with him?!?"

"I have been - comforting - dear Embron here," Ecstasy replied with a gentle smile, "Because he is such a lonely and misunderstood soul. And a darling man, as well," she giggled. The Queen scowled slightly. "As for how I came to life..."

1. "It's all part of the prophecy."
2. "It's the work of a friend yours, your majesty - a wizard named Belboz."
3. "It's the work of the mage of the Amazon armies of Arthema!"
4. "Joan here is responsible - though she doesn't know it."
5. "I'm not at all sure."

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