Original X-roads-2003

    Casandra observed the endless sand in any direction she would wish to escape. She was more than aware of Mark’s strategic abilities. There would be water at the edge of the sand, maybe. If there was, it would be three days after you’d already died from thirst. She sat hunched over in a cage meant for an animal. It had no door to escape from, just metal bars. Metal bars that would be burning hot from the sun in the day, and freezing cold in the night. The only mercy the cage had was the wood bottom. She still had to lean over constantly to avoid contact with the top.
    Ja’net tossed her sleek black hair back and watched the bars disappear.
    Casandra felt her body move on it’s own. She stood and began walking behind the voluptuous woman with long black hair. Casandra tried to speak, but the air wouldn’t get past her lower throat. She was like a puppet in this woman’s control… In Mark’s control.
    They walked inside a lush tent. It was cooler here, she could feel a slight breeze coming from somewhere. The room was dark only a small lamp was lit on an end table. Lush pillows were strewn about, in vibrant colors they looked so inviting. The carpet was a blood red with intricate designs in golden thread weaving in and out at almost every angle. Casandra felt a little mesmerized as she looked at it, as it if the pattern were moving under her feet.
    Mark leaned forward into the light.
    Casandra’s gaze immediately snapped to his face as if they were magnetic. He looked oddly familiar, she couldn’t quite place it. It had been so long since she had seen him though, he was probably going to change a little over time. Maybe it was that. He seemed younger if that was possible, though knowing Mark it probably was.
    “How does it feel to have your body be your own prison?” Mark questioned her.
    Casandra still could not speak.
    “One man went completely insane without my control. He shot half a squadron before he was stopped.” Mark allowed her to speak.