'The Monkey Prince' by Daniel MacPherson

<Tab/>Perched atop his favourite branch, in his most beloved tree, the Monkey Prince surveyed the land. His land. He had dominion over all that he could see. He had unchallenged authority over and unparalleled respect from every animal, from the lowliest insect to mightiest beast. It was his right to rule, and his responsibility to do so well. And so he did. He was a leader, a mediator, and confidant, …

…Tab/>With renewed moonlight, he found a stream, where he stopped, with the intention of tending to his wounds. He stooped to take a handful of water, but, before his eyes, it turned to thick, red blood. He saw his reflection. Staring back at him was no prince, no leader, but a skeleton, and angel of darkness, wearing the crown of the damned. He would be persecuted for eternity, exiled from his Eden.