After Effects

"I have a pounding headache and I feel dizzy," Astra said.

"So do I," Fred(a) added. "It's like having a very bad hangover."

"That is only to be expected," Vincent said. "I'm afraid that Norla and I had to be rather rough in order to restore you to your right minds. The effects should wear off before too long. But you no longer find me irresistibly attractive. I hope?"

Even feeling as rough as she did, Fred(a) could not help giggling. "No," she said.

"Good. Now I suggest that you both sit down in those chairs over there, close your eyes, and try to rest quietly for a while. When you feel better, there are some tests that I would like to carry out on you, to try to determine whether and how I can undo the physical transformation spell on you. Meanwhile Norla and Xyllis are going to take Princess Astra into my inner chamber, in order to examine her and hopefully get to the bottom of the mystery of how there can be two Astras. They have the Queen's approval."

Norla and Xyllis led the still glowering, but submitting, princess into the inner chamber.

When they had gone, Astra turned to Vincent. "Even before we rest, I should like to get dressed in something a little less revealing."

"Me too," Fred(a) said. "Can you conjure something up for us to wear? I suppose that armour wouldn't really be practical with this body, but a long gown would be a big improvement."

1. "Of course."
2. "I'm afraid that there would be no point just yet. The spell that keeps you looking like that also works upon your clothing. Any clothes that you put on will be transformed into two wisps of thin silk just like those you are wearing now."
3. "Possibly."
4. Before Vincent could reply, there was the sound of a scream from the inner chamber, but whether it was Norla, Xyllis or Princess Astra they could not tell. Vincent, Astra, Freda and Queen Helia all dashed into the room.

Add New Option

Go Back

View Forward Story Tree
View Back Story Tree