A Focused Dominion

A heavy brass magnifying glass lay dormant across the open leaves of an atlas, its thick convex lens distorting the borders beneath. Retreating from the terrace chill into the study, I ascended the dark mahogany desk and drove the golden butt of my serpent staff into the leather blotter. Extending my clawed right hand, I seized the fluted brass handle, tilting the heavy lens until ambient lamplight gathered through its curvature. A concentrated disc of amber illumination fell squarely upon an engraved citadel etched into the aged paper. Even distant realms must submit when brought beneath my unrelenting gaze.