𝕤𝕥𝕒𝕣𝕣𝕪 𝕟𝕚𝕘𝕙𝕥

[fatedfables]

𝖏𝖎𝖆𝖓𝖞𝖚​:

there was something, almost knowingly dangerous with how they spoke to each other. the wink sent his way had a shiver rolling down jianyu’s spine that he tried his best to not acknowledge. he knew that there were places and people in the world that did not have concerns over his preferences. some would even celebrate it. but there was the very idea of bringing dishonor to his parents that always kept him carefully walking a line he didn’t wish to cross. if only for them. that line, of course, was even more difficult when alasdair stood in front of him.

it was in those moment that he focused far too much on the warmth, from where the other touched him, that seemed to somehow be stronger than the sun beating down on him. how his eyes seemed to light up when they conversed. something he had with his closest friends but, it was always different with the other man.

“you too look well,” he replied softly, as they matched their steps while walking through the way. a hint of meat in the air they seemed to be tracing. didn’t he always look well? pushing the thought away, jianyu did his best to focus on the conversation. of course, al’s father would wish him to wed. all father’s seemed to wish such a thing. handsome man deserved handsome wives. nearly a law of nature, he was certain.

“adventure certainly seems to be your true life mate,” he smiled softly, a tease tilting edge of his words just right. “climbing that tower for instance. a tradition and a love all its own.” he continued, the statement stayed light and in truth, he truly believed it. happiness didn’t always come in the form of big moments. sometimes, it was the small things, like finding a good tree to climb, that would amount to all of the happiness in the world.

“outside of the normal tower climb, any other enjoyment you are looking for?” he questioned easily while doing his best not to run into any of the people they were walking near. it was easy to lose himself in the presence of alasdair. not a good idea in such a public setting. “the regatta, maybe?”

❖ ❖ ❖ ❖ ❖ ❖

❧︵┈𝖆𝖑𝖆𝖘𝖉𝖆𝖎𝖗 𝖑𝖎𝖙𝖑𝖊┈︵❧

there was this soft caress that was always carried in jianyu’s voice that was damn near enchanting. something alasdair might have called magic or enchantment if he wasn’t fully aware that it had come with a deeper connection and over time. he was under no spell. there was no amulet or charm swaying his favor, what he experienced with the other was genuine. this was a fear of its own devising, but he had never shied away from experiences that caused a thrill. indeed, it was not his name or reputation that stayed his hand when around the man from the imperil city, but his own understanding of the beliefs that were held.

his own preferences were not a secret, his reputation had a way of proceeding him, and most knew he was as likely to seduce a daughter as he was a noble's son. this gave him freedom. he had friends aplenty, and more adventures awaited him than could be numbered, still. he might be swayed from his mistress adventure if only the object of his own desire was free to make decisions as he pleased. ah well. it didn’t bear fretting upon. 

“dissuade me,” he chuckled, an affectionate grin lifting his lips as he resisted the urge to cross those careful boundaries drawn in the sand between them. “lest i climb a tower simply for the pleasure of your viewing it.” well, perhaps he would toe the line that was drawn. a flirt could only abide so many rules, and impeccable behavior had never been in his breeding. 

“i confess i’m a man of the forest, but me in water and i’m a bear with all the grace of a fresh hunt of salmon in the spring, but i am still looking forward to the regatta. i have a feeling a few maidens of the season will put on a daring display of chivalrous bravery and give us men a run for our coin,” his grin was filled with delight at the prospect, enjoying those brave few who put being themselves above societal standards. 

“and what about you, our stoic dignitary? will you be climbing aboard my ship and helping us towards victory or will i have to celebrate my efforts with you back on land?” 

[fatedfables]

𝖒𝖊𝖑𝖎𝖓𝖔𝖊​:

✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦

It was the latter of the two that Melinoe had expected as his response, but not the former. “I am rather shocked home as my driving force is something you would miss. In fact, had I been asked what I suspect you found most vexing about me, I would have suspect it be that.” Raph did not seem like one to hope, not in the way that she did. And so, she had always figured it was a trait of hers that he would look over. “The smirk, however… well I suspect you shall be seeing that more often.” She had plans. Ideas. Things she wanted to achieve in Auradon and some of those plans required her to get up to no good.

Letting her own gaze watch the lanterns above, she sighed at his words. She knew there was truth in them. Knew that these people were so concerned about their lives and their truths that they would believe whatever makes them sleep easier. That she and her companions should be grateful. Should want to assimilate into this new world and do their best to prove to everyone that they deserved to be there. That they could be good.

She scoffed. Rolling her eyes at the idea. They were condemned to be monsters or to forget the past transgressions made against them. And Melinoe knew which of the two she would pick if push came to shove.

Turning to Raph, she gave him one of her little smirks. “I am going to offer my services up to Faerilyth Moor. I do not know when, or how… as she is always being trailed by one shadow or another. But I am confident she is planning something, and I want to help.” She wanted to see Auradon burn. At least for a little while. Watch all the people scramble and worry for their lives. And then wanted to rule over their souls for all eternity within the underworld. When the time came.

“What do you plan to do with your time here? Before you run off in search of peace and quiet?” She propped her hand on her chin, leaned in closer and gave him a curious look as she asked. “What are your goals?”

❧︵┈𝖗𝖆𝖕𝖍𝖆𝖊𝖑 𝖋𝖗𝖔𝖑𝖑𝖔┈︵❧

“a common enough mistake,” he mused as he watched her, the madness lurking behind his gaze, always ready and willing to be set free. “darkness always seeks hope, little dove. its where wickedness goes to feed.” he had none of his own, the good lord had damned him and his family long ago, his fathers own madness was mere proof of the fact. that it had been contagious. had spread slowly like an all consuming, inevitable disease sinking below his skin and eating at him until he fell to it, that was the sign the lord and his blessings had abandoned the name frollo to rot.

“i am no more vexed by your tendency towards hope than i am by my own desire to taste it.” in fact, what he truly found vexing was the penetrating gaze of violet that she held him trapped in. and how his desire to taste, was hardly limited to her hope. his own body be damned to the hell he deserved to writhe in, even now betraying him. “god above be praised, let us never loose the smirk,” he teased, the lilt of his tone colored by amusement. “how lost we would be then.” 

he hummed in thought, his mind searching through faces and names he cared little to remember even from among his own. raphael took little pleasure in having acquaintances and the few he did have he protected with all the savage jealousy a man could possess. to his number, a healer, a young girl who needed all the protecting her own kin failed to provide in society, a lefou and the enchanting creature before him. but he placed to the name a face that drew a frown, those innocent features hiding a darkness more forsaken than his own. 

“i don’t rightfully know that i have any sense of this faerilyth but i know i won’t be letting you get up to no good alone. so you better start formulating a plan, dove. i can’t rightfully help with no roadmap now can i?” 

his fingers flexed of their own accord as she leaned closer. he wasn’t one others often approached and this closeness was the exact sort of thing he avoided like rot and decay, it only led to impulses and those were so very often his own downfall. he would pay his pound of flesh for the way he was eyeing her at this distance. crestline blue dipping to the design of her bodice before slowly making their way back to that enchanting purple. “your goals are my own, my lady.” he breathed, a smirk slowly forming as he captured her hand, kissing the back of it. “use me as you see fit.” 

[fatedfables]

𝖙𝖊𝖉𝖉𝖞​:

✿❀✿❀✿❀✿❀✿❀✿❀✿❀✿❀✿❀✿❀✿❀✿❀✿❀✿❀✿❀✿❀✿❀✿❀✿❀✿❀

Teddy gave a heaving sign paired with a shrug of her shoulders. “I was unaware if Lord Pendragon was participating and if he would ask you to be a part of his team.” It was not an outlandish assumption to make, and Teddy was thankful it seemed he was sitting this year out. She was certain half her team would have gone to him if he had been participating. 

Looking at the slippers, Teddy laughed before speaking slightly above a whisper. “I will not tell anyone, if you do so decide to remove them for the race. We can keep them in the boat and you can slip them back on once we win and are escorted out of the hull.” Perhaps they should all do such a thing. It could be good luck.

“Such fun! To be honest, I was shocked they were letting women compete. But I will not ask questions, only enjoy that no one has changed their minds.” Looking up at the sky and following Cal’s gaze, Teddy took in the soaring bird above. Oh, how she wished she could own a falcon. Of course, her Momma would never allow it. Just her cat, as that was a much more respectable pet for a lady. “How incredible to see through her eyes,” she looked at Cal with a quizzical expression. “Do you two have such a bond? It would come in much help during the race.” As the bird came down to rest on her friend’s arm, Teddy moved closer. She held her hand out, hoping the bird would allow her to pet her. “Do you have any ideas on how to celebrate our win today?” She asked, letting out a soft sigh of relief when the bird nuzzled into her hand.

❧︵┈𝖈𝖆𝖑𝖆𝖓𝖙𝖍𝖊 𝖎𝖗𝖛𝖎𝖓𝖊┈︵❧

“eadric would have told me if he wanted me on his team,” she agreed. “but then i may have stayed with you anyway for the sheer joy of a competition led by one of my own kindred.” it wasn’t likely, as a girl on a quest to join her family line and be a dame of the round table, it was far more likely that she would follow her prince wherever he led, it was her job after all, to see to his wellbeing, it wouldn’t do for him to drown while she was competing against him, what would her parents think?  of course this also meant he was being left alone with his intended, which also couldn’t be a good thing...still. it was far too late to change her mind now. chaperoning their time together would simply have to wait a while.

 “nor will i tell your mother is you hike your skirts and tuck them in for better mobility aboard the ship,” she whispered back conspiratorially. it was true ridiculous to expect them to do this in full dress. half the men in society would give up from the sheer feel of half-stays. “it won’t do to have our captain tripping about the boat.” “with glenna?” she laughed softly, nuzzling her cheek atop the falcons head, the soft sounds she made in response more than enough for her to know the gesture was greatly appreciated. “her father was silver wings, he belonged to merlin you know! but she is not so magical as to bless us with shared sight. like my father before me, we simply have a language all of our own, i can tell by her movements what she means to say, and how best to respond.” 

she watched happily as glenna and teddy bonded for a moment. “but she will keep us truly ahead of the others and warn of dangers, i promise you that!” laughing cal shrugged. “i suspect any victories on our part will have to be celebrated in accordance with what your mother finds appropriate, but that doesn’t mean we can’t sneak away later and celebrate on our own! how i wish i could show you camelot already, you simply have to come meet my parents and see our home! the cliffs and the sea are remarkable, but my mother and father are the best sparring partners you could ever ask for. we can teach you so much.” 

[fatedfables]

𝖒𝖆𝖗𝖎𝖚𝖘 ​:

► marius wulff ►

This was hardly something he attended willingly, but it seemed there was little choice in the matter. With everyone going, he hadn’t truly been allowed to decline the invitation to the festival – no matter how badly he wanted to do so. Being on water was even worse, though he was determined not to allow anyone accompanying him to know that the form of transportation bothered him. Never allow anyone to see your weakness – words he had lived by since he could barely walk. Letting people he didn’t know, or trust, in one the fact that he was uneasy on the water seemed beyond stupid.

He’d done what they had asked of him. He’d written something stupid down on the small strip of paper that had been provided. He had accepted a lamp for the festivities. He was doing everything he could to appear well-behaved. Did he like it? No, but Marius supposed he didn’t really have to like it. As long as it was done. More so, he would have been content going about the boat ride in perfect silence, but it seemed his seatmate had other ideas.

A biting remark on his tongue, Marius didn’t get to deliver it before the boat lurched forward, his own heart seeming to leap into his throat at it did so. If not for the woman’s grip on his arm causing something of a distraction, he was certain his reaction would have been more visible. Instead, his attention drifted to the hold she had on his forearm and he barely resisted the urge to shake free from her grip. The distasteful sneer on his lips melted into a smirk as he listened to her confession. She thought this was rude? Involuntary touching?

In the passing shadows, he hadn’t been able to fully make out her features, but she hadn’t jumped out as someone he knew, which left few possibilities. Now, hearing what she considered to be a lack of proper manners by so boldly, openly, touching him, it solidified his answer. She wasn’t from the shadow realm; not like he was. No. She was from this land, the land that had too many rules and kept their people on too short of a leash until their basic human instincts felt distasteful and wicked.

With a voice as cold as the waters surely were outside, Marius reached over and took a hold of her hand, removing it from his arm before whispering out for only her to hear, “Perhaps one shouldn’t wander so far away from their friends if they have such…glaring disabilities. Don’t your people consider it some grave offense, to touch a man without some ridiculous agreement established?” His father had shared stories – not that Marius had listened to any of them. He had never cared for the stories that made Auradon seem like a livable place, only the ones his father told that dripped with bitterness. Those were the only stories that Marius ever cared about – the ones that held a longing for vengeance.

“So, you cannot see and you’re separated from your friends. What a compromising situation you’ve found yourself in. Tell me, what do they call you?”

he went so long without a response she had assumed herself in the clear, not missing the way he had seemed to jump under her grasp and she wondered if it was because of her, and if she should apologize again for startling him when she hadn’t meant to. her lips parted to speak again when he beat her to it, his hands removing her grasp causing her to sucked in a breath instead, unsure if she was insulted, embarrassed of simply upset. she settled on indignant, her own question answered. not one of the kind ones, then. 

“my apologies, sir.” and she stressed the word like it might remind him of his manners, if nothing else. surely something as silly as grabbing his forearm couldn’t truly warrant such venom? her own frustration was getting the best of her as she tucked her arm around her middle, the satin of her gloves ghosting over the smooth silk of her gown as she looked pointedly at her knees. 

“not that i owe you an explanation, but i was with my friends. i was separated in the crowds quite on accident.” but she was sure she didn’t hold enough meanness in her entire body to truly bother this man. no worries. it would all be over soon and she could find emma and forget this portion of the evening ever happened at all. 

“the only thing compromising about my situation, sir, is that i seem to have found the only man among our party who wholly lacks any manners at all, which is truly no worry of mine. my friends will come to find me when we get back to land and i will be safe and sound, without further inconveniencing you.” at least...she hoped they would. he didn’t know to know that she was so unsure on that point.

“further more, i have no desire to give you my name, if it is all the same to you, since its meaning would be utterly lost in your hands. it was a simple mistake and i apologized, do they really let you out in polite society without —“ her tirade ended on a soft yelp as the boat rocked, laughter from behind them told her it was likely a younger party having fun, but she found her hand clutching his arm once more even as her heart raced in fear. 

[fatedfables]

𝖒𝖊𝖑𝖎𝖓𝖔𝖊 ​:

✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦

She had hoped the dark violet parasol would keep these pesky Auradonians away, if just for the day. But it seemed that was not the case. Perhaps the dark color was like a light for a moth. In a land of bright citrine’s, or pastel florals, perhaps darker tones was something so unusual it make people curious. Made them come closer.

Well, that was unpleasant. As cooler tones were all that Melinoe was drawn to. You could never find her in a bright yellow or a soft lilac. Not when colors like burgundy and indigo existed.

Regardless of whatever it was that drew this woman nearby, Mel was forced to smile politely and allow her to take a seat. After all, she did not know who she was. Did not know who she was connected to. And while Melinoe did not want to be bothers by others in this moment, she knew she would have to suck it up and suffer. Moving her parasol so it was on her left shoulder instead of her right, Melinoe looked up at the woman. “You may. Although, I do not own the land. So even if I insisted you find somewhere else to sit, you could ignore me and do as your please.”

Watching Miss Elaina sit down, Melinoe inspected the binoculars for a moment before taking them in her hand to get a better look at those snuggly duckling ruffians. “They do not look to be all that intimidating. What is it that they do exactly, during an event such as this?” She wondered. Although, what could you expect out of men who frequent a Tavern named the Snuggly Duckling?

“And yes, that is I.” She said, giving the girl a knowing smile. “Have you been hoping to meet me, Miss Elaina?” She asked, turning her body to face the other’s a bit more. “I do hope I live up to whatever expectation you’ve concocted in your head.”

❧︵┈𝖊𝖑𝖆𝖎𝖓𝖆 𝖑𝖚𝖒𝖎𝖊𝖗𝖊┈︵❧

she could feel the blush at the response, feeling somehow that she was being chastised for breaking the woman’s peace, and while she had accepted her company, albeit with more bite than anticipated, elaina wasn’t in a position to retreat. so, stealing what little courage she possessed she forced her smile to be brighter, more welcoming as she settled herself, feeling all the while like a child once more, scolded for sneaking sweets before supper or ruining her mama’s floral arrangements. 

“yes, well...” her words failing her she sought to quickly recover the situation, and figured the truth while exposing her as a creature of habit, was her best chance. “i almost always sit in about this spot for the regatta. i know it incredibly well, so when it starts to get later in the day i have an easier go of getting back from the shores.” that didn’t help with her suddenly feeling like a child, but at least it would excuse her apparent rudeness. 

caught by the question her head lifted, and she looked out towards the water. “well...its a race primarily.” she offered. “which would be rather boring and straightforward i think if they all played by the rules. the ruffians always seem to find a way to rig the event in their favor. one year they had a racing sale so large you could hardly see their boat!” 

clearing her throat she blushed once more, crimson spreading down her neck at her own chattiness. this was certainly not the way to go about making this woman her friend. and she decided now that they were seated near one another that she might like to be friends with her if only to see what she was like when she let her guard down. 

“i saw you once, back home. and i do see you around from time to time, miss. melinoe. you always wear the most beautiful things.” she’d had dresses made in the same tones of blush and blue for song long she had nearly forgotten there were other colors. “it always made me curious, and i’m happy to meet you finally.” 

[fatedfables]

𝖙𝖊𝖉𝖉𝖞​:

WHEN: MAY 29, FOURTH DAY OF CORONAN LANTERN FESTIVAL WHO: TEDDY LE BOUFF AND CALANTHE IRVINE

“Thank you so much for agreeing to join my team.” Teddy said to Cal as the team began to prepare for the upcoming race. She was confident her Momma would kill her once the race ended, but Teddy had already made peace with allowing her mother to not only stock her wardrobe for the next two years, but also allow her to attempt to set Teddy up with two suitable matches.

Was she going to give said matches the time of day? Most likely no, but her Momma did not have to know that. “I suspect there will be a handful of people in the audience that will turn their noses up at our team,” the blonde said, as she begun to plait her hair. “So I suggest we be sure to win in order to rub it in their faces.” Taking a leather strap, Teddy tied her hair off and huffed. If only she had been given the permission to wear pants today. It would make everything easier. And give them an even bigger advantage. Or at least level the playing field. None of the men rowing today had to worry about doing such a thing in a dress.

Perhaps beating them while wearing dresses will make the win all that much sweeter.

“I also overheard some men speaking and they believe that the lighter boats will glide much faster over the water. We have a real chance of placing today.” And while it was all in good fun, Teddy wanted to win desperately. @fatedfables​

❧︵┈𝖈𝖆𝖑𝖆𝖓𝖙𝖍𝖊 𝖎𝖗𝖛𝖎𝖓𝖊┈︵❧

“and what other team would you have me be on?” the question was punctuated by a beaming grin as calanthe worked her own hair into a messy braid huffing in irritation at the blasted skirt of her dress and the unseemly slippers that passed as ladies shoes. “i am almost positive these things as designed to keep us from running away,” she grouched, half tempted to ditch her shoes and stockings and use her garters to keep her hem above her ankles. “or beating the men to a pulp when they are short-sighted and irritating...” which was just about always, as far as cal was concerned. 

smiling reassuringly at her friend, she nodded. “let them talk and sneer, by the end of the regatta we will either be champions having proven them all wrong and wounded their pride, or we will still have been members of an all female team who out-competed at least enough fine gentleman to leave their pride smarting for the rest of the season, either way, what fun!” catching a shadow on the ground she looked up to the sky, hand blocking the sun as he grin turned wicked. 

“don’t forget, teddy. we also have glenna, who out of the rest of this lot are so fortunate?” putting her arm out she happily caught the falcon who was so careful with her flesh so as to never do more than leave a scratch she knocked her forehead lightly against the birds with happiness and satisfaction. “we’re an unmatched team in my opinion.” 

[fatedfables]

𝖆𝖘𝖙𝖗𝖎𝖉​:

Astrid tried terribly not to think about the last time she had attended the Coronan Lantern Festival, but it proved a difficult task. The more days she was there amidst the merriment and festivities, she found it harder to push away the memories of festivals past. It had been two years since she had walked those colorful cobbled streets, and she swore remnants of him remained. Visions of Dillon in the shadows, smiling and laughing at children passing by, watching the parade with a childlike gleam on his face. His ghost haunted her everywhere that sunshine and happiness persisted. Because in her world they could not truly exist if he were not there, and so even the sunniest of Coronan days turned grim and bleak for the young widow as she walked along.

Lantern in hand, a particularly bland dream of world peace written upon it — as it was impossible to dream of someone returning from the realm of the dead — she followed the familiar path to the docks. Dillon preferred releasing his lantern from the water than anywhere within the city, and it felt a little bittersweet to her to follow in his footsteps. Or perhaps she was so used to it that she just didn’t hesitate to do so. In truth, she wished she hadn’t been alone to do this, but it had been her decision to allow Rose to shirk her lady’s maid duties that day. She wouldn’t push her to spend time in her depressing company when she could spend this magical night with her daughter instead. It wouldn’t be right otherwise. So she figured the best way to not be alone during this massive festival was to pile into a rather crowded boat and let her lantern free among others. Just as Dillon would have.

As she made her way into line to get on a boat, her attention was pulled by the call of her name. Admittedly, Astrid had not recognized the man before her immediately, but she did have a vague notion that she may have known his face somewhere. It was only a second later she recalled her many goodwill visits to the boarding homes in Low Town, seeking out the chance to offer grace and warmth to the Shadowborn who now lived in the city. He was among those she brought baked goods and her, more than likely unwelcome, company. “Mr. Rasputin,“ she greeted with a bow of her head. “I thank you for the kind words, sir. It is a pleasure to see you this evening.” She wasn’t sure if she entirely trusted the Shadowborn but she had made it a goal to give them all a proper chance before casting judgement. And in that moment she found Mr. Rasputin to be an amiable young man. So when he requested to join her, she gave him a warm smile and nodded. “Of course, come with me. This boat has plenty of space. It is certainly the best way to experience the event. Just wait until the lights are reflected off the water.”

Astrid entered the boat soon after, saving a spot for Mr. Rasputin to join at her side. She had the fortune of being a widow and not as easily judged for being in the company of a gentleman, though she still longed for the buffer of Rose in that moment to keep her from discomfort should Mr. Rasputin somehow prove dangerous. Holding steadfast to her lantern, she waited as the boat began lurching forward into the water, deciding to wait until they were nearly halfway across the bay before moving to release hers. “How are you finding Corona?” She asked the man, wanting to learn of the other’s experience. “There is a small part of me that envies you, seeing all of this for the first time. I scarcely remember my first visit but I would love to relive such magic again.”

❧︵┈𝖐𝖔𝖓𝖘𝖙𝖆𝖓𝖙𝖎𝖓 𝖗𝖆𝖘𝖕𝖚𝖙𝖎𝖓┈︵❧

a pleasure he was all together positive it was not, however he would accept her sentiments, wasted as they have been. he was a dog with a bone when curiosity struck him, and he would play the ever attentive gentleman until that particular desire was satiated. “you honor me, my lady.” he offered with an easy smile and short bow in return. auradon could choke on the manners it forced upon its people. endless simpering and kowtowing, it was enough to make him sick with boredom. 

“i have been told by many that it’s a true wonder of the kingdom, this lantern lighting business,” he offered conversationally as he entered the boat, careful to keep his balance and disrupt the balance of the wooden vessel, moving to take a seat at her side, though with enough distance to remain proper. wouldn’t want to cause a scandal, it would hardly due for him to ended wedded to some vapid royal or other wasting away his life in constant agony and a string of mistresses. “but then seeing is truly believing is it not?” 

his genial smile and practiced good manners had somehow kept him rather well positioned within society, he mostly flitted from group to group keeping his intentions to himself and his confidences his own to safe guard. and yet everyday he found the task both easier and more taxing in tandem. “is she not with you?” he asked, eyeing the others in the boat with curiosity. 

“i don’t mean to pry, it’s just that i seem to recall a lady often at your side during your visits and yet here, you seem to be very much by yourself. its uncommon i should think that you would be out on your own after dark, even for a festival.” like breathing his face was a mask of concern, as his fingers gripped the seat below him to hold steady as the boat lurched into motion. 

at her question, his smile slowly resurfaced, mock awe and happiness rolled into one, his eyes showing true satisfaction that she seemed to care about someone lowly as himself. “i find the city very interesting, though overwhelming if i’m being honest with you, my lady. there are more colors, scents and sounds in this land that are unknown to me, just when i had adjusted to the last, it was off to do it all over again. not that this takes away from my enjoyment. the art was something to see.” 

internally he groaned at the sentimentality of it all. twisting the complaints he had heard from others that matched his own experience into something delightful and new. “i do not know if i will find a time my life when all of this ceases to hold me transfixed with its beauty,” his eyes had wandered from her to see the city around them. he wondered where their poor was located. if these people locked them away the same as they had done to him. if they were treated any more kindly as they slaved to make all of this a reality. his softened gaze found her face again and he smiled charmingly. “my apologies, i seem to have spoken more than intended. please. tell me of your time in corona?” 

[fatedfables]

𝖒𝖊𝖑𝖎𝖓𝖔𝖊​:

She continued to watch her lantern lift, join in with the other hundreds that littered the sky, and listened to his words. Tried not to allow them to hold any weight in her mind. But they made her heart heavy. Because what he said was not a lie. But what was she doing here if she did not allow herself to dream. Hope. Of a world where she and her father could be reunited for eternity, instead of spending it separated. While she has always craved the throne in the Underworld, she did not want to sit on it alone.

Once she lost sight of her lantern, the raven haired woman turned towards him and let a delicate hand softly press against his chest. “Oh? And what would you miss most?“ Her hand softly patted the lapel of his coat before she began to move away, find something she could lounge on. 

As it only seemed to be large boulders or grass, she chose the greenery. 

“You make a good point. What do they truly believe will come from this decree? Do they think we are all so honest and just that we are willing to turn our backs on everything we know just to be one of them? Or are they waiting for us to prove them wrong, and send us back beyond the mirrors?”

It was a form a torture, the shadow realm. To watch these people enjoy their lives and to know that there was a chance she could never escape the one she was born into. A kind of torture that she doubted these people even let their mind consider. “I need to dream.” She confessed to him, her violet gaze holding a heavy weight. “Not of a better life. But of a fair one. One where these people are punished for how they treated all of us. They trapped us in a cage and called it justice. But would they be saying that if we did the same?”

❧︵┈𝖗𝖆𝖕𝖍𝖆𝖊𝖑 𝖋𝖗𝖔𝖑𝖑𝖔┈︵❧

he stifled a hiss at the touch of her hand against his chest, even through layers of fabric her touch held affect. this simple thing, freely given affection, striking him to the marrow in his bones and setting them on fire. what a foul thing he was. to harbor such impure impulses towards this beautiful creature. 

it was an effort worthy of samson himself that he managed to pull his wits together, eyes following in her wake eyes tracing the lines of her figure for a moment before he sneered to himself, back straitening as he followed after, opting to stand guard as she settled herself. “you’re freedom of thought and the hope that drives you forward.” he offered, odd answers. but his, nevertheless. “and that little smirk you get when you’re up to no good, naturally.” 

he sighed, long and low as she spoke, his eyes glaring up at the lanterns in the darkened sky as they drifted further away. a frivolous tradition for a frivolous society. “i don’t suspect they believe there to be anything to forgive, dove. or that we might be anything but grateful that our oh so merciful princess would see fit to free the things that go bump in the night from their horrible plight.” he scoffed glaring hardening with his own thoughts. 

“they who have known naught but peace do not realize that all stories are penned by the victors. look at some of the children among our number. what sin did they commit? what transgression against the crown other than to breathe and be born? we are to bear the weight of our fathers and mothers alleged sins, and be grateful that one royal out of a million due some misguided justice or sense of obligation took pity on us and set us free.” 

he was not wholly without feeling, not an automaton. true he was rarely within his sane mind, though he had tempered himself as harshly and often as possible to avoid his true eventual fate, but it was the tangible weight. the burden that should not be her boulder to push ever up the mountain side that finally had him kneeling beside her. 

“then dream, little dove. dream of your justice and how you might bring it about,” his eyes searched her face for a moment before offering a half smile and incline of his head. “and then wake up and share your daydreams so we might make them a reality. all of us deserve better than this.” 

[percyfraser]

ANA DE ARMAS as Melinda Van Allen DEEP WATER 2022 • dir. Adrian Lyne

[fatedfables]

𝖊𝖆𝖉𝖗𝖎𝖈 𝖕𝖊𝖓𝖉𝖗𝖆𝖌𝖔𝖓:

when: may 28th, 3rd day of the lantern festival  who: eadric pendragon && calanthe irvine @fatedfables​

the music had a quality to it that almost seemed alive. it shifted through every street and every road. eadric could practically feel the glee and enjoyment of the people heading to the square. he couldn’t really blame them. it was meant to be a joyous event, a way to get swept up in celebration for one of their cities most merry moments. somewhere, he understood that. but, unfortunately for him, he was fresh off a scalding missive that had come from his parents. more specifically, his mother. it looked as if his father had a say in it, but they would know better.

it had taken him little time to toss the letter to the side and head out of the day. he had hoped he could immerse himself in the festivities and find some enjoyment, but it seemed that was not meant to be. sighing lightly, he resigned himself to find little enjoyment in the moment as took a seat in the sun. unlike many others, he loved the hot sort of days. it made him yearn for him. of course, home was a different sort of heat when it came. sun shining through the foliage and a humid sort of heat. it made training days both the worst and the best in his mind. still, it was enjoyable.

closing his eyes for a moment, he tilted his head upward and let the sun hit face full on before letting out a sort of sigh that was closer to relief than annoyance. willing the tense feeling to leave him, he rolled his shoulders before tilting his head back to the right angle. his eyes opened when he heard feet shuffle closer to him. it wasn’t fear or mistrust that filled him, but something more akin to recognizing the way the person walked. turning his attention to the figure, he found himself easily smiling. catching sight of someone from home. calanthe irvine, someone he had known for all their lives. a small little annoyance that turned into an actual friend.

“cal,” he greeted her softly, the smile on his face turning into something warm and the familiar sight of a friend. “i feel like i haven’t seen you once these past few weeks,” there was humor in his words as he leaned forward on his knees with his elbows. there was not an ounce of decorum coming from him in the moment. “how’d you get out of dealing with… all of this?” when he paused he waved his hand in general towards the surrounding festivities.

❖ ❖ ❖ ❖ ❖ ❖

❧︵┈𝖈𝖆𝖑𝖆𝖓𝖙𝖍𝖊 𝖎𝖗𝖛𝖎𝖓𝖊┈︵❧

eadric had a face she knew as well as her own, and she had spotted him from a distance, all tense shoulders and dissatisfaction that spoke of his mother, and father and all of the disappointment that king arthur had heaped upon his son’s shoulders. she had spent so many days in their shared youth chasing after him, soothing what stings of rejection she could and letter her own mother and father take over when it was beyond her expertise. some looks weren’t easily forgotten however, and she felt the familiarity settle into her bones as she approached, all playful smile and wild hair. 

“glenna needed some time to soar,” she explained. “and i needed a good run. we went across the bridge and explored the shore.” as if summoned by her name the falcon who had looked over her since hatching swooped down to land with more grace than her adopted human on the bench beside their friend. “i envy her, you know. to be so free, and yet here i am, still forced to wear these silly dresses.” tugging the fabric to find some semblance of comfort she laughed. 

she claimed the seat on the other side of the falcon, head tipped back to enjoy the summer sun and soft breeze coming off the water as the chaotic din of voice and sound filtered towards them. “now we’re returning to properly participate. though i’m more for dancing than wish making and lanterns. no matter how many times i see it i never stop finding it dull. you can’t just will your dreams to come true!” opening her eyes she shaded them from the sun with her hand, turning to grin at him. 

“it’s a nice tradition though i suppose...” sighing finally she stood, making a show of dusting her skirts before she turned, offering him a hand. “come on, young prince. let us get you to the feast so you can dazzle the fair maidens with that smile of yours while making goo-goo eyes at the true damsel of your heart and the three of us can dance until we pass out!” 

pausing, she tilted her head curiously eyes narrowing slightly. “unless you’d like to spar on the bank over there?” she pointed towards the waters edge shaded by the trees where she had just been. “in which case i will truly show you how formidable i can be!” 

[fatedfables]

𝕵𝖎𝖆𝖓𝖞𝖚 ​:

travelling had taken time. unlike many of the others that had come for the season, he had not come at the same time as everyone else. in fact, the lantern festival was the first event in the season he would be participating in during the current season. it was a well-known tradition that had developed. many from all the lands came to celebrate not only the birthday but various art forms. there were also different types of food that were randomly about. both, of course, were things jianyu himself would enjoy partaking in. often, he came for the contests and other such things but in truth. he preferred the calm days. ones where he could simply walk among others, with no expectation.

his clothing was light enough for the warmth of the sun. he found himself basking in it silently as he looked among the stalls in interested. he was not looking for anything specific, but he was open to possibilities. it was a rare thing that he could simply, wander. it brought him more delight than he could possibly put into words. that of course didn’t mean there was no spark of elation at seeing alasdair in the crowd. nor, did it stop it from growing when he bowed in return, as decorum stated and offered a smile in the other man’s direction. “you must not have been wondering for long.” he countered with humor and the curve of his lips still on display as he looked at the other man.

this of course, was a dangerous game. it was not one jianyu tended to play. on the contrary, commonly he was very careful giving too much attention to men he found… attractive. when it came to the other man in front of him, he had never been particularly good at it. not since they had met when they were younger.

that didn’t mean he wasn’t surprised by the offer of accompaniment. it would be… wonderful. “i would be happy to join you,” he offered easily. “they always reorganize this every year. makes it a bit of a scavenger hunt,” he laughed softly at his own words. in truth, it was always a bit of fun. “but you know you had me at food.” was added with another laugh before he nodded in a direction they should go.

“i wasn’t sure if you would be at the festival this year,” it was the sort of doubt that plagued his mind from time to time. a worry that jianyu did not mean to think of. “have you found anything to climb yet?” his friend was like a young bear. always looking to have a view from heights and safety rather than the ground.

❖ ❖ ❖ ❖ ❖ ❖

❧︵┈𝖆𝖑𝖆𝖘𝖉𝖆𝖎𝖗 𝖑𝖎𝖙𝖑𝖊┈︵❧

his grin was full of pleasure and delight at the others warm greeting. he always expected to be kept just on the outskirts of his affections, and was always surprised at how close he was truly allowed to get with every encounter, still on the outskirts. but so close he could reach out a hand and push through the wall that stood between them, if he saw the need. if he could justify the compromise to jianyu’s comfort. he cared for him too well however, and so he stayed carefully in the outskirts. 

“i looked long enough to be discouraged,” he offered a full pout on his lips as he sighed woefully. “i almost gave up my search all together and stopped for libations. but then i realized how sad you would be if i had food without you. it was my strong will to never disappoint you that kept me going.” he tipped a playful wink at the shorter male, stretching lazily in the cornan sun happy for the fresh air.

“i had us both at food,” he agreed with a hearty laugh, clapping the other lightly on the shoulder. “but we will find the art, never you fear. and you can tell me all the things i don’t see when i look at it, and i will point out the shapes that remind me of clouds and animals of the forest and somewhere in the middle i’m sure we will have a very pleasing afternoon.” 

“you look well,” he offered fondly, as he settled into step beside the other, tone pitched for a more intimate conversation as he followed his nose towards something that smelled deliciously like grilled meat of some sort. he didn’t care much for what it was, only that its scent made his mouth water in anticipation. 

“well, father is still holding out hope that i might marry and settle down,” he offered honestly. “though we both know adventure is my true mistress. to be trapped in one place for too long...” he shuddered at the thought. “i haven’t,” alasdair answered truthfully. “but then, i haven’t done my annual climb of rapunzel’s tower either, and you know how i love to climb the tower!” 

[fatedfables]

𝖈𝖔𝖘𝖊𝖙𝖙𝖊 𝖌𝖔𝖙𝖍𝖊𝖑​:

Who: @fatedfables​

When: May 26th, Day 1 of the Lantern Festival

Cosette strolled beside her friend, pointing out little curiosities that were around the town. She, of course, needed to pretend to be the lady but with such a kind chaperone by her side, whoever would believe her as anything but. Her brother, of course, was somewhere else entirely but Raphael was by her side. Whenever Damien was busy he always seemed to be there to guide her.

It was nice, truly, to have someone she knew genuinely cared about her and wished to protect her. Not many people did. Most of her life she had spent staring into mirrors, jealousy raging in the pit of her stomach.

But now, well there was nothing wrong with enjoying herself was there? Just a bit. Even if this was the day her mother’s downfall was celebrated.

“Oh look at this!” Cosette cried in delight, pointing to a rather beautiful golden necklace. “They have such fine things here, don’t you think? It’s exquisite. I never was able to see these up close in the Shadow Realm. But here I am now, fawning over jewelry.” She couldn’t help but let her excitement shine through.

❧︵┈𝖗𝖆𝖕𝖍𝖆𝖊𝖑 𝖋𝖗𝖔𝖑𝖑𝖔┈︵❧

and here was the crux of his own failings. this innocent young girl who knew nothing of the world at large but had been thrust into it. something about her had captured his attention in a very platonic way. paternal almost, as he strolled along beside her, making sure his eyes stayed fixed on those around him, a stern glare shot at any who might approach. 

he never trusted the intentions of these outsides. these royal and free-born people who smiled so easily. who knew so little of darkness and gorged themselves on prejudiced superiority.  they might approach hoping to make a new friend. or they were approaching out of morbid curiosity. whatever the case, he was her buffer. nothing would slip past him. 

“it is...” he winced a bit as he looked at the jewelry. he never pretended to know or care about pretty things, but seeing the joy on her face he weakened. “pretty.” he finished. knowing that looking was about all they could afford. something like that would take several shares of their so called ‘allowance’. 

looking about he gave another internal sigh, before offering her a slight smile, softer than the one that would usually mark his features. “it is different.” he agreed. “and there is...more variety.” his mind struggled to come up with nice things to say about the extravagant show of wealth around them. how wasteful of them. “did you wish to look at the stalls all afternoon? or is there something else you might wish to view as well?” 

[fatedfables]

𝖓𝖎𝖉𝖆𝖑 𝖆𝖇𝖆𝖇𝖜𝖆​:

☥

He’d never been quick to flush, yet Nidal felt the warm heat creep along his neck at the addressing of him. He was royalty in Agrabah, certainly, but the throne was still held by his mother for the time being. Soon enough, it would go to him, but those weren’t days that he was counting down anytime soon. Still, he didn’t pull his hand away as she took it into her own. Such an act could be seen as insulting, and regardless of how sincere – or not – her words were, the last thing Nidal wanted to come across was insulting himself. Activity like that would have his parents calling him back home for a hell of a lecture, he was sure of it. And, in a place like this, nothing went unobserved for too long.

“Please, there is no need for such words. I am simply here as a guest, intent on watching the festivities just as anyone else. I do not even hold the throne yet, so your formalities are premature.” He was just here as a guest, a guest who was meant to be enjoying himself. Not that he had looked forward to watching the play about Rapunzel. He would watch it and hold his tongue, because that was what you did when you wanted to remain on civil terms with another ruler, but he hadn’t been eager to attend the festival either. For now, all he was truly doing was trying to find some enjoyment out of everything while staying moderately out of trouble.

“I require no service at this moment.” Again, that flush crept along his neck, this time up to his cheeks. It wouldn’t seem proper form to blush as that would show his slight nerves, but there was nothing he could truly do about the matter now. “Simply enjoy the show and be gracious to the hosts of these events. That is all.”

Dark eyes scanned over her face then, picking up on features that were familiar from his mother’s stories. There was a dept there, one that Nidal had been sure his mother was exaggerating on up until this very moment. Though he had no real reason to doubt her sincerity, he knew to keep a reasonable distance from Jafar’s daughter.

Perhaps she thought him dumb, too stupid to realize who she was. Or, maybe, she had figured that Nidal’s mother had kept everything from him – a foolish assumption. “You clearly are familiar with me, yet I cannot recall your own name. Do you wish to share it with me?”

❧︵┈𝖐𝖍𝖆𝖉𝖎𝖏𝖆 𝖋𝖆𝖗𝖔𝖚𝖐┈︵❧

“are you not the sultan of my generation?” she asked, all softness and gentle admiration. she had a lifetimes worth of practice at acting. emoting shyness, empathy, loyalty and even wonder. this was no different than the nights she had spent soothing her fathers broken ego, cutting herself on the jagged edges of his failures that he tried to make her own. “your mother i hear has led agrabah admirably. but for me. for our generation, you are the sultan that will lead us. i am honored.” 

such softness was in her eyes as she beamed at him. carefully arranging her cards, deciding his fate. if he was going to be cautious of her, destruction would be mandatory. but there was still time yet to weave her magic. to captivate him with full fluttering lashes and ruby lips.

at his request she internally sneered. as if she would sully her own name and reputation with unnecessary rudeness. she had rubbed elbows with the princess. had flirted with nobles and played coy with men and women alike since she had arrived at court, playing the game admirably well despite her burning hatred. “as my sultan requests,” she acknowledged, inclining her head before settling back into her seat. 

“apologies,” she offered willing a blush to her cheeks as she peeked back towards his face, internally smirking at her own ridiculous actions. “i am khadija farouk, it is an honor to meet you sehzade nidal.” with this, she played shy, tucking slender fingers in her lap nervously as she adverted her gaze from him. “our families...do not have the best history.” she offered, tone reserved as she looked ahead towards the stage. 

“my father was a fool,” and the contempt in her tone was genuine, she never could stand jafar and all of his endless whining. his own pride his downfall. “he craved power and in his quest forgot the thing that was most important. agrabah. i apologize for the mess he created. i truly hope your family has recovered well despite his treachery.” 

[fatedfables]

𝖒𝖊𝖑𝖎𝖓𝖔𝖊 𝖕𝖆𝖕𝖆𝖙𝖔𝖓𝖎𝖘​:

WHEN: MAY 28, THIRD DAY OF CORONAN LANTERN FESTIVAL WHO: MELINOE PAPATONIS AND RAPHAEL FROLLO

Melinoe had convinced an older gentleman to purchase a lantern for her. Explained how this was her first time in the city, her first time attending a festival of the sort, and that she wanted to embrace everything it had to offer. That was a lie, of course. All she wanted was a lantern. But she made the man feel as if he was single handedly giving her a chance at seeing a dream come to fruition, and she was positive he would jump at playing hero. She had been correct. He pulled out his coin purse and purchased her a lantern from a nearby vendor, and with numerous thanks, Melinoe was off towards the cliffside. 

He had mentioned joining her, saying they could partake in the lighting of the lanterns together, and she was quick to reject him. 

Melinoe didn’t care about traditions, or gimmicks. But she was superstitious, and if joining in on this activity would help her with her plans, then why not give it a try.

𝐼 𝒹𝓇𝑒𝒶𝓂 𝓉𝒽𝒶𝓉 𝓂𝓎 𝒻𝒶𝓉𝒽𝑒𝓇 𝓌𝒾𝓁𝓁 𝓁𝑒𝒶𝓋𝑒 𝓉𝒽𝑒 𝓈𝒽𝒶𝒹𝑜𝓌 𝓇𝑒𝒶𝓁𝓂, 𝒶𝓃𝒹 𝓉𝒶𝓀𝑒 𝓅𝓁𝒶𝒸𝑒 𝑜𝓃 𝒽𝒾𝓈 𝓇𝒾𝑔𝒽𝓉𝒻𝓊𝓁 𝓉𝒽𝓇𝑜𝓃𝑒.

After her dream was written out on a piece of parchment, the raven haired demi-god attached it to her lantern and released it into the night sky. Watching the golden light flicker as it rose, she did not take her eyes off it until she felt a presence next to her.

“Will you be partaking as well?” She questioned. “Do you even dream?” @fatedfables​

❧︵┈𝖗𝖆𝖕𝖍𝖆𝖊𝖑 𝖋𝖗𝖔𝖑𝖑𝖔┈︵❧

curiosity he told himself. curiosity and nothing more. not his odd sense of respect or even the slight twinge of attraction that he would torture himself for later, no. he had trailed her trim figure up the cliffside for nothing more than a few answers to some burning questions. this was the lie he would stick to as his eyes of striking blue meeting brown for a brief moment as he sucked in a breath. 

did he dream? surely he did. not of beautiful lovely things however. those were the dreams meant for better men. his were filled with twisting, vile things that slithered and whispered of his sins while tempting him towards more.

“what’s the use in dreaming for people like us?” maybe too honest, but he had never been the sort to add honeyed lies to his list of transgressions. the truth was always preferable. “we’ve escaped the shadows, made noble pledges to be good little boys and girls and in return we’ve been granted the opportunity to dine with our captors under the false pretense of freedom..and...equality.” 

he quirked a roughish smile in her direction. “though i believe we both recognize that half of them would throw us back in if they had the chance and the other half are delighted by the thought that they hold something so special that we’ll change our horrid ways and see the light.” his tone dripped with mocking as he looked down from the cliffs edge at the waters and city below and chuckled. 

“if i dream at all, it is of peace and quiet and land away from these simpering royals and their fine polished traditions to spend the rest of my life left alone.” of course he knew it wasn’t likely to happen. still. if scrawling it along the side of a lantern would somehow help he’d have tossed a dozen of them. “no, i will not be partaking. i’m simply here to make sure no royal gets the idea of tossing you off a cliff, dove. i’d miss you terribly.” 

[fatedfables]

𝖔𝖑𝖎𝖛𝖊𝖗 𝖈𝖔𝖌𝖌𝖘𝖜𝖔𝖗𝖙𝖍·:

●╭╮╭╮╭╮╭╮╭╮╭╮╭╮●

Oliver would not normally be so informal, so relaxed around another individual, but this was Elaina. They were practically family. Their fathers, though they would deny it sometimes, were practically brothers and she practically his elder cousin. If there was anything he ever needed assistance with, she was the first person he would go to.

But this, well this was perhaps outside even the scope of her knowledge. However was he going to take this moment to rant and rave to his hearts content.

“Of course. Of course it makes perfect sense, really. Miss Potts and Mr. Coggsworth. It’s logical. I understand what makes them think this way, but truly I cannot help but find the whole thing foolish.”

Oliver sighed and finally took a seat beside her. There was a comfort there that helped ease his worries, at least a little anyway.

“I just fear that nothing will ever make sense between us. That there will be this hatred forever, this rivalry. If there is I will simply refuse to marry her. They cannot make us. No formal papers are drafted, just a spoken expectation. And hardly anyone knows of it.”

❧︵┈𝖊𝖑𝖆𝖎𝖓𝖆 𝖑𝖚𝖒𝖎𝖊𝖗𝖊┈︵❧

she gave him a sympathetic nod, knowing that matters of the heart couldn’t be forced, which is what she truly believed the issue to be. knowing both of them well enough she figured there would be no issue to discuss at the moment if only it had been their choice to unite their families.

something about forcing things always seemed to have this effect, but as she felt strongly about the importance of his happiness, she had long since decided she hated the arrangement herself, on principal, of course.

you may find someone else yet,” she added, nodding with a soft smile as nimble fingers adjusted her gown to reclaim her seat, carefully selecting from the number of cookies and tea cakes she had provided for his visit, selecting the ones she liked best and offering them to him.

the season is still early, and you never know who you might meet. i would hardly stand in your way, in fact. i would be among your loudest supporters if you found someone who made you truly happy.” taking a few plain sugar cookies with flowers delicate pressed into the golden tops she took a small bite before dunking it in her tea.

she gave him a sisterly smile, wishing she could do more to easy his troubled mind. “forgive me for not being able to offer better council.” it was truly the best she could do to be there for him, to offer an ear and fresh sweets and hope he found some comfort in her presence. lucky her family had no expectations. lucky that her father was pleased to bequeath her a large fortune of her own if she became a spinster. “is there anything i can do?”

[fatedfables]

𝖓𝖎𝖉𝖆𝖑

whom: the hon. khadija farouk of the shadow realm and the the sehzade sultan nidal ababwa of agrabah. when: the twenty-ninth day of the fifth month in the year 1885, under the reign of his royal highness king adam, the beast of conques. where: the city of corona the occasion: the coronan lantern festival, spanning from the twenty-sixth day, to the thirtieth.

❧︵┈𝖐𝖍𝖆𝖉𝖎𝖏𝖆 𝖋𝖆𝖗𝖔𝖚𝖐┈︵❧

her nerves were on edge, she had played nice and sweet. had hummed and hawed, laughed and played sympathetic. she was longing for a night alone. to meditate and see to her alchemy. the sound of a mortar and pestle grinding ingredients to dust beneath her will as she crafted a potion that altered the way reality itself worked. to bend reality to her own will once more, how glorious. to be her true self, how decadent. 

instead it was yet another event. more fake laughter, the mask fully in place as she saw a play about the silly rapunzel and her happily ever after. how quaint. how abhorrent. how...fortuitous. the seat beside her was filled with a face she knew almost as well as her own from the amount of time she had spent discreetly studying it. the lucky man destined to inherit her dream. to seduce or to destroy was a decision she was still struggling with. 

both had their pros and cons. both yielded the same result. agrabah. her destiny. her one true desire. the only reason she smiled day in and day out dealing with these horrid excuse for royals and the society they demanded. “my sultan,” she breathed, quick to rush into a proper greeting, hand clasped and raised above her head before she lightly took his hand, lips hovering above the warm skin. 

she might not have decided, but how much easier to destroy when the target believed you a subject? a loyal subject at that. she pressed her forehead lightly to the back of his hand before freeing his hand. sitting with better posture so as not to embarrass him. “you honor me with your presence.” on her rouged lips was a sweetly inviting smile, her gaze holding wonder. “how might i serve you, your highness?” 

[fatedfables]

𝖒𝖆𝖗𝖎𝖚𝖘

whom: the hon. elaina lumiere of auradon and the hon. marius wulff of the shadow realm. when: the twenty-eighth day of the fifth month in the year 1885, under the reign of his royal highness king adam, the beast of conques. where: the city of corona the occasion: the coronan lantern festival, spanning from the twenty-sixth day, to the thirtieth.

❧︵┈𝖊𝖑𝖆𝖎𝖓𝖆 𝖑𝖚𝖒𝖎𝖊𝖗𝖊┈︵❧

this wasn’t supposed to happen, she was supposed to be in a boat, seated with her friends, safe and secure with a proper escort to help guide her from the boats when it was all said and done, and instead she was seated next to a stranger, worriedly staring at the nearest lantern and the fuzzy flow of what she could see around it, which wasn’t much, vision failing the further away from the source of the light she tried to view. 

in her lap, her hands twiddle around the soft paper, her wish scrawled along the inside in her delicate script. oh how a few minutes could change her entire mood. she had been so elated when she’d written her wish. the anticipation to get on the water and elation at viewing her own personal stars now slowly turning to dread. 

mustering her courage she looked to the gentleman beside her, the lack of bright, focused light made it difficult to make out his features, but he was handsome enough, she was sure of that. unfamiliar though. meaning he was either a local she was unacquainted with. or another member of the shadow realm. she couldn’t afford to be picky, and hoped against hope that if he was one of them that he was at least one of the kind ones. 

“its a beautiful night,” she offered, voice more tense than usual from her own anxiety. small talk was always a good place to start, and necessary for a proper introduction. she could hardly ask a favor without small talk first. she felt the lurch of motion as the boat pulled from the docks, and despite herself, her hand shot out, catching his forearm in a shaky grip. “i’m so sorry,” she whispered. “i just can’t see very well and i was separated from my friends..” she offered a tense smile. “i didn’t mean to be rude.”