first meetings.
A series of short scenarios (released in order) wherein darling meets the Houses.
Merascula
Her faith had not been kind to her and yet here she stood, trembling and alone in a land that was not her own. Amber eyes which betrayed her feelings were shrouded behind a black veil, but the thin piece of fabric did little to hide the trepidation splayed across tense skin and the hope falling from her hands clasped in prayer. Her breathing was ragged and light and she swore her heart had leapt from her chest to pound in her ears. Even as she knelt before you, groveling, she felt at peace because she was born to live on her knees; and despite it all, her lips parted in awe before she could disallow it.
“M-my queen, are you certain? My...talents are not something to be held in such high regard, please reconsider!”
Your eyes, beautiful in their splendor, shifted upwards to meet hers and her heart nearly burst fearing you could see under her veil. She does not deserve your warm gaze, she chastised, lowering her head in shame.
“Queens do not mince words, priestess”, you assured. She stiffened, feeling your finger lightly trace the precious metal of her golden circlet. The color stood out even under her veil, and her eyes would do the same had she not always kept them closed. “Do you doubt me?”
Her body, laden in thin black fabrics and brimming with magic, visibly relaxed, honored to even feel your touch. She was far more powerful than you or any sorceress in your court, but she melted under your touch as if it were the most potent charm. “You are right”, she finally relented. “I am deeply sorry, Your Highness.” She bowed her head, ashamed by the sheer audacity of her own doubt -- but you were quick to raise it, lithe and warm hands capturing her cheeks so as to raise her gaze. A flinch reverberated across her skin, but you paid that no heed; she was hurt and you’d see to it that justice was wrought in her name.
“Tell me, what do you go by?”
She hesitated, discomforted by the thought of revealing her true name. Associating with her would only bring about destruction, and perhaps she was selfish to seek refuge in your arms and in your kingdom in the first place; but even holy priestesses weren’t immune to desperation.
“I am Merula.”
A lie, but not quite, and she took solace in that -- a sweet contentment that lasted a split second once she saw how warm your smile was. Your arms encircled her shoulders and she almost lost herself in your sweet, floral scent when you pulled her close. You reminded her of an angel; she was horridly aware that her very existence by your side was a lie, a disgusting and ugly mar on the righteous dream you held for your kingdom. Merula felt she must earn the right to be by your side, to be alive; but what was done had been done, and she found herself promising to tell you the truth one day.
But promises were always so easy to break, so easy to overlook when you’re blinded by faith. And you’d become her religion.
— two. Ravana — three. Alocer — four. Therin