"Kneel down!" One of the guards pushed me unceremoniously to the cold floor. King Nick was sitting high on his throne with his golden crown, his hands resting on the arms of his chair, and his right palm supporting his head. Only his eyes were closed, as if he were asleep or deep in thought.

"Your Majesty, the prisoner has been brought in!" said the guard.

"I'm not a prisoner!" I pleaded loudly.

 "quiet!" " cried King Nick suddenly, his hollow, dark eyes fixed upon me. Then he waved his hand wide, motioning the guards to step back.

"Your Majesty, what is my crime?" " I asked, looking up.

"What...