Also please imagine corrupt!Scarecrow and Glinda both side-eyeing the Tin Woodman when he c l e a r l y starts developing feelings for Una XD
Like, they're at a palace banquet or something that Dorothy demanded they have and Una's like 24 now, 'a woman' Tin calls her (staring at her in her beautiful green dress- one that Glinda of course designed so she would outshine many... but not herself). Glinda gives a butterfly-like giggle and nods. 'Yes, she's really becoming something, isn't she dear Tin Woodman?'. Then Tin just Leaves the two, no explanation, to approach Una and ask her clumsily (He slips on the polished floor and almost cuts her, but she just laughs it off of course) for a dance.
Glinda blinks, confused as to what exactly happened just then... before familiarity sets in. She's seen him act like that before.
With Dorothy.
And so has Scare, who's turning his head to look at Glinda with a raised eyebrow (or, the fabric behind his painted-on eyebrow was raised). '... a 'woman' ' he repeats.
'Oh no,' Glinda sighs. 'The Tin Woodman isn't... ' Scarecrow nods, a casual but disappointed air about him for his hopeless, odd old friend as he turns back to the pair dancing. Una's still a girl, in his eyes. She will always be just a girl. Just a silly, malleable, dumb little girl.
'Oh he's absolutely falling for Una.' He assures his... Glinda. Whatever Glinda is, to him. He's not sure; he's not sure he ever will be. Which is maddening-
'Good lord.' She rolls her eyes, all fake-warmth gone from her pretty ageless face. 'We're going to have to do something about that, arent we Scare?'
Now he sighs. He knows very well she means h e is going to have to do something about that. 'Yes, I guess.'
'Thank you. Because, as you know- we can't have her developing other alliances.' He nods. Yep, he knows. 'And the Tin Woodman would be- '
'Yes, I know. A disaster.' Oh how Scare hates it when people tell him things he already knows. What does he even have a brain for?? In order to stop the course of discussion, Scarecrow grabs a glass of bubbling green champagne he can't even drink off of a passing tray carried by a pretty servant girl (he thinks her name might be Astrid??), and watches her go through the crowd for a bit- from behind. ... when he realises that Glinda is glaring at him, he gives her shrug. 'Just enjoy the festivities, Glinda. I'll handle it.' 'Don't you worry that pretty little head.' He adds, a mischievous smirk spread across his stitched on lips, before he leaves her there.
As Scarecrow wonders off, waiting for the first oppertunity to leave this ridiuclous Dorpthy Party, he considers his new problem. He doesn't yet know what he's going to do to his old friend to halt these unfortunate feelings he has for silly young Una, but it may not be entirely pleasant.
Oh, dear.
Oh, well. It must be done, afterall~
... *deep breath* I have worked so hard on this drabble, that I don't want to just lose access to it if I answer privately. But I know Dorothy Must Die isn't a friendly book series and this kind of ship dynamic may be looked down upon. So I'm going to mark this as mature so it's not so easily accessible, even though there is Nothing risqué in this drabble! Anyone who reads this- I know Tin is a villain, I know this book series is controversial, and I know this ship dynamic might be more on the taboo side with the age difference. But please don't @ me 😅😅😅
But!!!! This this this this!!! Y'know this is part of the reason I had Tin and Una not develop a familial bond in the AU- that and because I legit can't see them interacting too much. But I need this!!! Una just seeing Tin as a heroic figure in Oz, while Tin is starting to see her as more than just Glindas Apprentice (also, can I just- point out how ballsy that is of him?? Bro is falling in love with a powerful and cruel witch's daughter, and he doesn't even consider asking for Glinda's blessing?? That heart really makes him blind, huh? XD)
But anyways- this dance but through Una's and Tin's perspective!! I must! Write! It! I tried to keep the time vague since I'm not quite sure if this is before or after Amy enters the picture. (Ohhhh imagine if this was the ball at the end of the first book though! Maybe Una gets captured?? 🤔🤔 oh would Tin not die since he's not by Dorothy's side?? Focused on keeping Una safe instead!? Or!!! Or maybe this is just when Amy Gumm lands in Oz, and Una and Tin can see her trailer flying through Oz from the balcony?? AHHHHHH!!!!)
~
Una's POV
"It's is my greatest honor to present; our beautiful and noble ruler, Princess Dorothy! The great and beloved witch of the north, Glinda! And her apprentice, Lady Una!
I had been quite nervous at first, when mother and I made our entrance into the ballroom right alongside Dorothy. Mother is on the rulers right, her slippers never touching the polished ground as normal, and I myself walking with practiced grace on Dorothy's left. The last thing I wanted was to accidentally anger our princess again, especially during a time of celebration (for what, I'm not entirely sure. It seemed mostly just for Dorothy's amusement... But everyone in the palace work very hard, so why not have a night of festivities to relax? ^^). But Glinda assured me earlier that I couldn't possibly outshine our leader ("Everyone's eyes will be on the lovely Dorothy Gale, my dear. You won't risk taking away any of her deserved attention~" she had said... I'll admit, a part of me couldn't help but feel the way she strung those words cut into me a little. Though I'm used to that from mother), so I just smiled warmly to the crowd and held my chin high, just like Glinda instructed, and descended the stairs into the ballroom.
However, despite keeping as much poise in my posture as possible, I couldn't help but scan the room; only my eyes gliding across everyones faces, hoping to spot a trace of him. I'm certain mother and Dorothy would allow us just one dance? Even if he's a servant, we're still friends! And he deserves the night off, too. However, the only familiar faces I found were father, the Scarecrow, my best friend since childhood, The Courageous Lion, and the general, Tin Woodman. When the munchkin servant announced our presence, the two inorganic men and giant feline had their eyes trained on all three of us.
Scare, of course, had his eyes on mother. How could he not when they love each other so much? (Not to mention how breathtaking she looked in her pink, glittering ballgown- the one with the skirts flowing over each other like flower petals, and a shorter tiara that showed off her magnificent red beehive bun. My father wasn't the only one who couldn't look away from her, and I have a feeling she knew.) Lion glanced between Dorothy and I, and I could feel my smile grow when he looked particularly happy to see me. A giggle even escaped me when he called out to me, "Una! Over here!" Gosh, it's been so long since our last visit. But Tin... That's odd. If I didn't know any better, I'd think he was looking at me with that awestruck expression... But that's just nonsense. Everyone knew the woodman only had eyes for Dorothy Gale... Even so, I know I'm not walking that close to her... (Be still, beating heart. You know those eyes are not for you.)
Speaking of the Princess, she had already run off to enjoy her party, or try some of the champagne while demanding a specific song from the band. I can't recall if I've heard it before, but I had to focus on keeping the grimace off my lips. Even if she was the ruler, it was always an astonishing sight to see how rude the witchslayer was. She couldn't be bothered to address her people first?? But I can't disappoint my mother (I can feel her eyes on the side of my head right now). She's worked hard to teach me to keep my cool, especially among guests. Ignoring the pang of guilt in my heart, I take in a deep breath before fixing my smile and turning back towards mother. She returned my smile, and I breathed a sigh of relief through my nose. I didn't upset her, "Come along, dear. We must greet our special guests, then you can go and enjoy the festivities tonight."
"Of course, mother."
I followed her floating form to where father, Lion, and Tin Woodman stood, approaching my straw parent first, of course. I looked towards Glinda first, and only when she nodded in approval of my silent request did I breach the distance between us. Even if we were in front of company, and he has been becoming... Less himself these past years, I still embraced him. Squeezing him a little like a pillow, the crunching sound of his stuffing had long been a comfort to me since the first time he picked me up, "Father! It's so good to see you out here."
"I was hoping you'd grow out of this phase..." I'm not sure if he could feel my grin weaken at that, but I forgot that small pang when his gloved hand patted the top of my head. It wasn't a reciprocated hug like I wanted, but with how standoffish he had become recently, this was better than I could hope. I lifted my head off of his chest to look into those realistic button eyes of his (sometimes, I can't help but wonder if they are actual eyes...), and noticed he was donning his blue suit tonight. The one he usually wore during court. It may not have been new or particularly fancy, but I like to think that that was a sign he truly cared ^^ "You're rather cheerful, tonight."
"Well, it is a night to celebrate." I resisted a giggle when he just raised a canvas brow down at me, unimpressed, "Celebrate a chance to relax. At least, that's how I'm choosing to take this party."
"A waste of resources, if you ask me. But whatever." The Scarecrow rolled his eyes before trying to pull away. I knew by now what that meant, and just let him go with a sigh. Now standing in front of him with my hands held together, he and I both glanced towards mother when we saw her sugary sweet smile from our peripheral. She always looked pleased with how close we were, "It gives you girls a chance to dress up, I gue-"
"Enough hogging her time, Scare! I need to see my cub!" It was far too easy for the humongous feline to throw his old friend to the ground just by simply bumping into him. Fortunately, father managed not to collapse to the ground and only stumbled with a huff. I almost reached out for him to help, but when Lion crouched down to me, I chose to place my hand on his big muzzle instead. I felt like my grin was going to split my face open with how happy I was to see him! "Una! I swear, you grow bigger every time I see you."
"I could say the same for you, Lion!" This time, I let out a hearty laugh before practically pouncing on him for a hug. I'll smack myself for losing my composure in front of so many people and mother later, but for now all I cared about was the warm, giant paw on my back and the gentle lick kiss Lion always dragged across my forehead whenever we saw each other (fortunately my up-do wasn't ruined. Mother spent a whole hour getting my look just right for tonight's banquet). I have heard frightened whispers in the halls of the palace, about my dearest friend. But whenever I saw him, all I could see was the fun-loving cat that would tell me stories while I rode his back, "You'll stay the whole night, right? You don't have to leave so soon?"
"Of course not, little cub." He couldn't purr like the occasional tiny cat I've found on the streets of this city, but he did give me a gentle forehead nudge while maintaining eye contact with me. My heart swelled with joy with his answer, "After all, someone has to make sure everyone is having fun. Isn't that right?"
Now... About those whispered rumors. I will admit times like this, I can see why they are passed along. Despite the light-hearted air, there was some kind of threat behind his voice... I understand Lion takes his role in Dorothy's court seriously, but that seems a bit much...
Still, we only see each other once in a blue moon! I don't want to dampen this moment with any of those dreadful doubts. So I just smile back and nod before pulling in closer for one more squeezing hug, "Of course. You are the life of any party, after all."
(Behind me, I swear I can hear my father and Lion share a snicker at what I just said. That's very odd; they usually disagree on so many things. Father with Lion, most especially...)
After some time enjoying Lions embrace for as long as possible, he pulled away claiming he had to 'scout around'. I noticed he was eyeing a servant with a tray of hors d'oeuvres, so I giggled. Clearly he just wanted a quick bite. I let him go, reassured I'll see him again later tonight, and turn my attention finally to the hero of Oz. The Tin Woodman.
I flushed and felt embarrassed; not only had he been watching me act so carefree, but I didn't even notice he had just been standing to the side, silently and paitently. He was definitely staring at me now, looking nervous with his tuxedo (how did he get that thing on? Wasn't it uncomfortable for a mechanical being like him?? Oh goodness, the poor man! He must be trying to look his best for Dorothy... Does she know?). Somehow, he managed to look taken aback despite his metal features. No doubt wondering how someone as ridiculous as I could possibly be related to the regal Glinda.
I cleared my throat and willed my blush to go away before plucking my skirts and curtsying in greeting, just as mother taught me to do, "Good evening, General Woodman." This time, my smile was mostly polite, and I nodded to him, even if I did have to crane my neck to look him in the eye. A lock of hair came undone from my braided bun, so I had to tuck that behind my ear before continuing. I'll fix it in just a moment, "You work so hard to keep us safe. I hope that tonight, you'll be able to enjoy your well-deserved break."
The tall man of tin made a sound, like he was a man of flesh and blood sucking in a breath, before nodding vigorously. I hope his collar won't get stuck in his joints and circuits, "Yes, yes. Of course, my dear. Thank you. May your evening be just as festive for you, a-as well."
Although his behavior was strange, and him calling me dear was even stranger, I knew better than to draw attention to it. I wouldn't want that if I was feeling as nervous as he clearly was. So I just offered one more nod before turning to my parents and curtsying to them, "I'll be on the dance floor, if any of you need me."
"Of course, my dear. You go and have your fun."
"Sure."
Well, at least neither of them seemed bothered by my lack of manners earlier- except maybe father, but it's hard to tell if that's his usual expression or his disappointed glare. But I can't bring myself to care too much, either way. Now that I can finally go off to find Benjamin. It took everything in my being to not to let my excitement show before I joined the crowd!
(However, despite looking for my friend, my thoughts kept going back to the Tin Woodman. Yes, he seemed rather anxious tonight. But come to think of it, he seems to be unfocused every time I see him lately. Whenever I accidentally bump into him while turning corners, or pass by him in the hallways. He's even been in the dining room with me, despite not needing to eat himself. I haven't been able to figure out why the general always seems to find me in the palace nor why I, supposedly, am making him so skittish... I haven't had the heart to admit to anyone how it makes my heart skip a beat. I can't. Tinman was no doubt just trying to do his job and ensure everyone's safety, not... No time to think about that now. It's time to enjoy the night!)
~
Tin's POV
Beautiful. That was all that I could hear in my head the second I witnessed Una descend the stairs into the ballroom, the skirts of her satin emerald dress billowing with each step she took like a rare ozian bird. It was like a mantra, though not a very great one; there was truly no way to describe the young witch or how she made the heart in my chest feel like it would pop out of its cavity whenever I saw her, but simply the word beautiful was practically an insult to her! She was far too lovely, too gorgeous, too enchanting, too precious, to simply be referred to as beautiful. By anyone, but most especially I. The way she had looked at me just now, how my name sounded coming from her soft lips and how big and shining her eyes were when looking at me?? I had just wanted to fall to my knees at the moment and greet her with a kiss. Or brush back the stray locks of hair from her face for her.
These feelings for Una were far different than what I had for Dorothy. And now, glancing towards our princess currently making a spectacle of herself on the dance floor and sending venomous glares towards anyone who approached, I wondered with a small frown how I ever fell under her spell when she came back. Una, darling Una, was so, so different than our ruler; even grown, her frame looked so delicate, I couldn't help but wonder how she doesn't get hurt when we collide in the halls (she needs someone to hold her and protect her. I need to protect her...). Her eyes shone with a light from her pure soul, a kind of light I can't even remember when I last saw (she has no idea how she was surrounded by the evils of Oz. It's both heartwarming and concerning. If she puts her trust in the wrong people...). Usually, she let her hair down, giving the illusion of being shrouded in sunlight. However, tonight, she decided to pile the pale yellow strands into a loose bun with two long locks framing her face and exposing her delicate neck and shoulders to the crowd (I could never kiss her or touch her there. I could kill her if I did so... But I'd be lying if I said I never dreamt of her in such a way when I was alone in my closet). And although she looked magical in whatever she wore, the dress she decided to wear tonight? The shimmering, emerald green ballgown with the lace bodice, decorated with strings of pearls that were sewn into the sheer ruffles around her shoulders? It could take any man's breath away.
Though, that was just her physicaly beauty. I had only seen her a select few times when she was younger, but by now it seemed that Glinda had moved Una into the palace. I didn't know what to expect from the girl the good witch had adopted, but I couldn't have imagined finding her chatting away with the servants around the castle- or at least those few who hadn't run from her. I never thought I would have found Una, the same girl Scarecrow had helped raise, trying to find a splint small enough for a wounded bird she had found in the gardens. And how could I ever forget when she found me in the halls, unable to control my tears after another failed attempt to win Dorothy's affections, and she wiped away every tear and consoled me while oiling my cheeks and eyelids? I'm certain that was the moment I truly realized who was the one for me.
Granted, it took some time for her to be brought into this world, but Oz was always strange in it's ways. Perhaps I wasn't meant to be with my lovely Una until after I could properly protect her? Maybe I needed the heart Glinda gave me to properly love the little witch. But it doesn't matter now. I may be Queen Dorothy's general, but my heart was never meant to be hers, clearly...
My thoughts were interrupted, however, when I overheard Scare and Glinda talking to each other. About Una. I had forgotten I was just standing here, but how was I to remember myself when my spring blossom was just mere feet away? But what I heard Scare mutter managed to grasp my attention, "... And she still acts like a silly girl."
My jaw twitched at that, and I had to fight the urge to whirl in on my old friend. I didn't want to upset Una by fighting with the one she considered a father, but how could he possibly say that about her!? She may not be his child by blood, but even a blind oaf could see how much she treasures him. He's not even grateful to have someone as kind as her in his life. How could he be so disrespectful towards her???
"A woman." I corrected, feeling the pair look up towards me. But I couldn't tear my gaze away from Una. Almost as soon as I felt that flash of anger, I felt it dissipate as I continued to watch my love. She was slowly disappearing into the crowd, clearly looking for a dance partner.
...
'Perhaps... No, Dorothy never wanted to dance with me... But Una isn't Dorothy, is she? A treasure such as her shouldn't be left alone on the dance floor, moreover.'
The rest of the world disappeared from my focus as I nodded to myself, trying to calm my racing heart and gather my courage. Una isn't Dorothy. Una isn't Dorothy. I should try to ask her for a dance...
'But what if she says no? No! No. No thinking those thoughts! I can't cower away, now...'
I took in a deep breath despite not needing to, and decided. It was now or never. Everyone on the floor cleared a path for me, fortunately, allowing me to reach my starlight easier. Of course, with how observant she was, she noticed the guests around us disperse and turned towards me. Her beautiful eyes of polished silver widened when she saw who it was, and she quickly curtsied like she had a moment ago, "O-Oh! Tin Woodman. How may I help you?"
Oh Oz, her voice. It wasn't like Glinda's that was like a chiming bell. Una's voice sounded like warm and sweet honey. It made me feel weak in the knees instantly- wait, why was I still standing?? Why had I let Una curtsy to me like she was a maid?! I should be the one bowing to her greatness!!! Of course, this mistake had to be rectified, and I quickly got down on one knee for her, "Un-"
In a second, I wasn't looking into my loves' eyes. Instead, I had slipped on my knee and was about to collide into the floor! In front of Una! How could I be so clumsy!? She'll never want to dance with me now.
However, the resounding crash never came, as I felt two hands touch my arm, followed by pulsating, soothing energy. I knew without even looking up that it was my true love. I opened my jaw to beg for forgiveness and promise to never fall on her again, but before I could string the words together, Una had already started to pull me back up onto my feet with her magic. Her silver eyes wide in an expression I hadn't received in years; concern, "Oh, General Woodman! Are you alright?"
"I... I..." I may be made of metal, but right now, it I felt like my throat was closing up like I was a full blooded man again. All I could do was nod and watch her as she tilted her head to the side, and I realized I had just been gawking slackjawed at her this whole time. It felt like steam was ready to burst through my funnel hat as I cleared my throat into my free hand, "Una, there's no need for formalities between us. We've known each other for so long, after all."
I noticed a small smile spread along her lovely lips. Great Oz, just gazing upon her made me feel weak, but just then, I heard what had to be the most heavenly sound in any world; a twinkling, light-hearted laugh from the little witch herself with no traces of mockery, "Well, Tin, you can't be falling for me. We don't want you to hurt yourself now."
Oh, how my heart lurched and pounded even harder in my breast plate. 'If only you knew how true that little pun was, my darling sunlight.' I couldn't tell if it was my nerves or if Una's aura was that contagious, but I started to chuckle alongside her (how long had it been since I laughed like this?... I don't remember), "Right, of course, Una."
"Hehe, sorry I couldn't help myself. I guess I get it from father." The woman sighed out her last ringing laugh before looking up into my eyes, "Was there something you needed, Tin?"
At that moment, I felt very fidgety and unsure of myself at that moment; was my suit just right? Did the rose I pick out start to wilt? Were my joints oiled just right?? If I was still flesh, I knew I would have felt my mouth dry up at that moment. But it wasn't the same anxiety I felt with Dorothy; the warmth and care radiating from my dandelion gave me a sense of hope. Maybe, just maybe... "Yes, actually. Una, I..." I reached for her delicate hand instinctively, but I forced myself back. It was too risky right now, "Would you give me the honor of your first dance, tonight?"
I couldn't believe I was able to get the words out. It just came to me far easier than it ever did with Dorothy (surely that must be more proof that Una and I are meant to be!). Her big, beautiful eyes widening, however, made my heart tighten. Was I mistaken? Was I too hasty?? Despite my worries, though, I was frozen in place. I wanted to say something- anything that could possibly soften the inevitable. My mind raced at the speed of light waiting for Una's answer, that I almost missed it when she spoke, it was both a relief and shock to my system, "Woodm- Er, Tin. You truly want to dance with me? What about Princess Dorothy?"
'That... That wasn't an exact no. Could it really be?...'
I couldn't mince words now. Not if I truly did have a chance. This time, I carefully extended my hand to her- which I only just now noticed how huge it was compared to hers (I always knew how sharp and dangerous my hands were, especially to her. But I suppose it never really sunk in until now). I've longed to hold her for so long, but I didn't want to cut her perfect skin either, so I waited to see how she would proceed. I can't fail now! "No, Una. If you'll have me, I wish to spend the night with you."
It was now or never. My jaw squeaked ever so slightly as I clenched it- I thought I oiled all my joints perfectly before tonight! Oh, Oz. I pray she didn't hear that. I tried not to think of it as I awaited the answer that would break my heart or make it soar. The young witch seemed puzzled at first (she didn't doubt my truthfulness, did she? Surely she knew anyone would be blessed to be within her presence, right? Did someone convince my songbird otherwise?! I won't let that stand!), her eyes wide as she glanced down to my sharp outstretched hand and then up to my eyes. She was one of the few people in this world who would dare look me in the eye anymore, and my knees felt ready to buckle under her gaze.
It felt like an eternity before her glossed lips tilted up in a timid smile. That alone made my adoration of her multiply- I had no idea that was possible, yet here we are. But when she raised her gentle hand, using her magic to form a shimmering, opal shield around the digits before resting them on my knives, My jaw let out a terrible noise when it dropped. And her confirmation sent my heart beating harder and faster than it ever had before, "It would be my honor to spend the evening with you, Tin."
'This- This is real! Really real! Una, lovely, pure sunlight Una, wanted to spend the evening with me!? Keep calm. Keep calm!'
I'd be a liar if I said I had planned this far ahead. Dorothy never allowed me this close, and although Una isn't my first love, I felt like a young and inexperienced boy stumbling over his every move. It took everything in me to keep the steam from blowing out of my top as I shakily nodded. "Th-The honor is all mine, Una." I couldn't stop from glancing to her hand in worry. I so desperately wished to enclose it in my own, but... I would never forgive myself if I cut my beloved. Such a sin would deserve only the worst of punishments.
She seemed to have read my mind though, "It's alright." Her melodious voice reached through the fog in my mind, snapping my attention back to her. I could now see the slight pink on her cheeks, making me gasp. That was... Was she?- "Mother taught me this spell; nothing will break through it."
As if to prove her point, Una squeezed my index finger, or rather blade, as hard as she could. It gave me a heart attack and instinctively I tried to pull my limb away from her, "Wait! My darling!-" All of a sudden, she let go of my hand. As she assured, there wasn't a drop of blood or a stray slice of skin to fetter her beautiful skin.
But it was her expression now that made me freeze. Once more, her silver eyes were blown so wide, and her mouth was parted in shock whilst she stared up at me. It was only then when I realized what left my lips, and I wanted to slap myself right then and there. It was the truth, she was my darling. But so soon!? After she had just blessed me!? That would startle any woman! I have to salvage this! "Forgive me, Lady Una, I never meant to offend-"
"No no no! Don't- Don't worry." The words died in my voice box once she took my blades in both of her hands- both of them now protected with her magic. My hands were trembling, but they steadied themselves when I was able to see there was no offense or disgust behind her expression or voice. In fact, all I could see in her eyes was glimmering tenderness (and... Was that hope? Could it be??), "I'm not offended. Truly. It's... Lovely of you, to say about me."
... Oh stars of Oz, are my prayers finally coming true? Did Una feel a connection between us?? We truly were destined to be???
I blinked, and all of a sudden I was aware of where we were again. I could sense all if the unnerved eyes on eyes in the middle of the ballroom, but Una didn't seem aware of it. Or at least she ignored them. With a newfound hope I never thought I would feel, I straightened myself up and smiled down to my turtledove. How my heart hadn't melted from my chest cavity, I had no clue. But it was high time I give her the night she deserved, "Well... My darling Una," (No. No I was not mistaken. The adorable little noise that escaped her when I called her that again couldn't just be a coincidence. All I want is to pick up my precious lily and cradle her to my heart.) "The band is playing, and the guests are merry. I would be more than happy to have this dance with you."
"As would I, Tin." Her genuine smile? The love in her eyes? Have I died and been delivered to heaven??
She held far more grace than a swan with just interlocking her fingers with my own, and then guiding my other hand to rest on her waist. It had been far too long since I felt the warmth of another in my hands that didn't include bloodshed, and to already have the pleasure to hold her waist could have been enough to incapacitate any man, organic or otherwise like me. Yes, this was just how I was supposed to hold her in a dance, but I knew that this would haunt my mind long into the night. And many nights after this party. She couldn't reach my shoulder unfortunately, but I straightened my arm as best as could; offering her my forearm to grasp instead. Hopefully this won't be too awkward.
And without another word, I led my treasured goddess into a waltz, following the beat of the music and ignoring how everyone scrambled away from us.
(Out of the corner of my eye, however, I see Glinda and Scare supposedly in conversation while looking our way, before they both headed in opposite directions. Glenda gliding through the crowd, and Scare blinking away abd out of the ballroom. It may not seem like anything to worry about to the untrained eye, but I knew my old ally well. There was very little chance that their conversation while watching us was mere coincidence...)
~
RAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHH OMG!!!!!! I finally finished it! I cant believe it! 😭😭😭😭😭😭 I really hope this was worth the wait! (I wanted this to end with Una and Tin going out to the balcony just like Beauty and the Beast, maybe sharing a spur of the moment kiss, but I ran out of paitence 😅)
Also- Idk if you remember, but I was originally planning on Una having a crush on a servant boy named Benjamin... But as you see, I changed my mind. I couldn't resist Una developing a crush on Tin. And Tin, having had a relationship before and a hopeless romantic, seeing that in her eyes 👀
As for Scarecrow and Glinda... I know they're so cruel, but I hope to the writing gods that they don't hurt either Una or Tin! 😭😭😭😭😭 (but they better be prepared. Tinman seeing Una isn't at all opposed to him like Dorothy is has given the general more strength than anyone may realize 🫢)
