The Court of Endless Dreams

Inside the Mind of the Silent Midnight Lion

[themidnightleo]

DWC - Day 3: Linger/ Gaze

On one of the days he found himself home, Leo drifted wordlessly toward the river that cut through the edge of his yard. He settled at its bank, knees drawn in, arms draped loosely across them. Solitude was a dangerous thing for someone like him, but lately, the real danger felt like himself. Being alone, at least, spared others.

Tonight, though… he was just Leo.

The moon hung full and cold in the sky above, casting pale silver across the water’s surface. Crickets chirped in steady rhythm, grass rustled gently with each sweep of the wind, and the river hummed its ageless lullaby. The world around him exhaled, and for once, he felt no need to speak. No need to perform.

A chill crept through like the cool breath of autumn, but it brought comfort. Fireflies danced in the darkness like stars fallen to earth, and below the surface, fish traced glowing paths beneath the current—otherworldly and serene.

Leo's eyes locked on the distance, but his mind didn’t follow. No thoughts, no voices. Just quiet. Blessed, infinite quiet.

Time unspooled.

And he let himself drift, lost somewhere between the hush of the night and the ache in his bones, neither fighting nor feeding what lay beneath.

For now, the stillness was enough.

@daily-writing-challenge

[themidnightleo]

DWC Day 2: Placate/ Graceful

Another day. Another coin. Another slow step toward unraveling.

Leo had picked up more than just dust and bruises during his time in Undermine—he'd acquired habits that would have once disgusted him. Now, it was gambling halls instead of grand stages, whiskey-soaked nights instead of refined soirées. He threw away his gold as easily as he threw punches, often side by side with his best friend in taverns that reeked of sweat and smoke.

The drinking, the brawling, the reckless spending—it was all a carefully veiled performance. A façade to keep the beast within him sedated. For something monstrous stirred beneath his skin, clawing and gnashing with every breath he took. It whispered promises of liberation, of fire and ruin. The voices had grown louder, more demanding, and he had long since stopped trying to silence them. Now, he merely tried to drown them.

Self-soothing had become a foreign concept. Comfort? Impossible. All that remained was distraction. And so, day after day, he repeated the ritual—wager, drink, fight, survive.

And in those moments—the brawls especially—there were flashes. A second of bloodlust. A heartbeat where time slowed and he knew... he could win. Every fight. Every foe. Every damned soul that crossed him—if he just let go.

If he let it out.

But—

No.

It cannot be released.

He could feel it, coiled in the marrow of his bones, waiting for a moment of weakness. And though the temptation burned hot and sweet, Leo remembered too well what had happened that day. The day it escaped.

And he still wasn’t sure—if it came forth again—whether he’d ever find the strength to lock it away once more.

@daily-writing-challenge

[themidnightleo]

DWC - Day 1: Cruel/ Beauty

The Man in the Mirror

How long had it been now—months? Time no longer moved forward; it bled. The ache remained, crawling beneath his skin like rot, and with it came the slow erosion of care. He no longer bothered to maintain the elegance he once demanded of himself.

Leo sat in front of the mirror, in the room he shared with his best friend, GiGi. They had spent more time together lately, but even that comfort couldn’t reach the hollowed-out place inside him. He stared at the reflection in silence.

What looked back at him was not the man he once was.

Tired. Unkempt. Drained of all luster. The refined image he’d once guarded so fiercely had collapsed into something raw and unfamiliar. The past few weeks had been an endless theater of pretending—charming smiles, careful posture, polite conversation. But behind closed doors, this was who he had become.

He leaned closer to the glass, pulling at his skin, grimacing at the sight. “Pathetic. Hideous. Worthless.” The words rolled from his tongue like venom—an incantation of self-loathing. He’d begun to repeat them daily. They were a lullaby for the creature inside his chest, the one that twisted and stirred, hungry for ruin.

It wanted out.

It wanted to destroy.

And gods, how badly he wanted to let it.

He imagined it: giving in fully, tearing through everything that dared to exist near his pain. Letting the world burn just to match the wreckage within him. But something—some fragile tether—kept him from collapsing entirely. Not out of hope. Out of fear.

With a snarl, he balled his fist and drove it forward— The mirror exploded beneath the blow, shards flying like tiny daggers, scattering across the floor. His reflection lay in pieces at his feet, broken just as he felt inside.

With a ragged sigh, he pushed himself from the chair, stepping toward the ornate mirror across the room—an oval of gold, encrusted with glittering stones. GiGi’s mirror. It had become his salvation and his curse.

He stared into it, and slowly, the ruin faded. His features twisted and smoothed into the mask the world was allowed to see—flawless, composed, radiant. A lie, but a necessary one.

Only once the illusion was complete did he move, drifting from the room like a ghost wearing borrowed flesh.

It was morning. Time to play beautiful again.

@daily-writing-challenge

[themidnightleo]

Corvus Noctis

Here we were again.

The relentless internal battle that had begun a year ago had only grown fiercer in recent months.

And now this.

Leo sat hunched in his chair, elbows propped on his knees, head bowed as the gentle breeze from the courtyard stirred his hair. He watched the strands sway, absently thinking, It’s getting long. Maybe I should cut it. But then, just as quickly, he dismissed the thought. Why bother? It wasn’t worth the effort. A long sigh escaped him, ruffling the hair from his face as he opened his palm, revealing the small stone resting there.

So much more could be said, so many words left unspoken—but none of it would change a thing. In the end, he would still be here, sitting in this chair, drowning in his own thoughts.

People had tried to comfort him—those who cared most. But comfort was a fragile thing. Every person filled a unique void in his heart, and when one was gone, that void remained. No amount of effort from others could ever truly mend it. That was the complexity of being him. Curse the world. Curse emotion.

His teeth clicked in frustration as his fingers curled around the stone, gripping it tightly. Anger surged within him—he wanted to crush it, to destroy it, to make the pain stop. But love restrained him. Love for her.

Darkness seeped into his fingertips, inky black spreading up his arm in jagged veins of shadow. It coiled, fed by the storm inside him. But before it could consume him, soft footsteps padded into the room. A familiar blue fox trotted to his feet, sitting with quiet understanding, looking up at him with wise, knowing eyes.

Vega.

She had always been a source of comfort when nothing else could reach him. After all, how could anyone remain upset in the presence of something so pure? So unconditional?

With a quiet exhale, Leo tucked the stone away, then reached down to scoop Vega into his arms. She wasted no time, scrambling up his chest to nuzzle against his neck, her warmth seeping into him like a balm to his frayed soul. She knew—she always knew when he wasn’t okay. And though Vega usually demanded the world revolve around her, today, she gave him her world instead.

The creeping shadows on his hands faded.

"You’re a good girl," he murmured, pressing a gentle kiss to her head. She let out a soft, happy sound in response.

Leaning back, Leo let his gaze drift to the ceiling, his mind slipping back to that place again. But this time, it didn’t crush him under its weight. Instead, a single tear traced its way down his cheek, falling in complete silence.

@zariasona

[themidnightleo]

Lurking Within

Leo sat on the chaise in the living area, his gaze lost in the flickering fire, with only his fox, Vega, for company. The distant sounds of children’s laughter and playful screams drifted through the air, a reminder of the life outside. Meanwhile, Trist and their newborn slept peacefully in another room.

What would have once been a dangerous moment of solitude, a time when his thoughts could turn dark and consuming, had become instead a rare moment of stillness. For the first time in what felt like forever, his mind felt empty—quiet. The usual din of voices, the constant clamor of thoughts that had become as familiar to him as his own heartbeat, faded into the background. They were still there, no doubt, but so much a part of him now that he barely noticed them.

From the far corner of the room, a voice broke the silence, cutting through the trance Leo had slipped into. "Yeh be doin' dat more and more of'en."

Leo blinked a few times, as if clearing away the cloudiness from his thoughts. "What are you on about now?" he asked, his voice low, not even bothering to turn and search for the source. He knew that voice all too well.

"Da way yeh look out inta nottin' for so long," the voice continued, its tone thick with an ancient accent. The footsteps came closer, soft and measured, despite the immense size of the Zandalari who owned them. "There be nottin' in yuh eyes when it happens. Like yeh be lost, like yeh be gone somewhere. Where do yeh be goin', Voidsinga?"

Leo sucked at his teeth, a faint twinge of irritation flickering in his eyes. "So I need a reason to enjoy silence now? You used to be so happy to see me find peace in these moments, and—"

"Dat was before them moments became sometin' else. I feel da air aroun' yeh. It gets tick and troublesome."

"Thick and troublesome? Please... you are reading far too into it."

"Okay... so where yeh go den? What was it yeh were tinkin' about just now? No lyin'."

From the moment they met, Zy'chaal had sworn to be honest with him, and Leo had vowed the same in return—no lies between them. "I…" Leo began, his voice faltering, the silence that followed heavy with unspoken tension. Finally, he admitted, "…I don't remember."

Zy'chaal pointed at him, approaching with more assertiveness. "See? Dat not be right. Dere is sometin'. Sometin' happenin' to yeh."

With a long sigh Leo leaned further back into the chaise, "I am just tired- exhausted even. A new baby is rough. I know Trist is doing most of the work but it is still taking a toll on me as well. It'll be over soon in a few months."

"And den it'll be too late."

Suddenly, Leo shot upright in his seat, the abrupt movement sending Vega skittering out of the room. "Stop talking like that! There is. Nothing. Wrong!" Each word dropped like a thunderclap, the final one laced with a growl that rumbled deep in his chest—a warning, primal and raw. His voice, now carrying the edge of his Star-Eater form, sent a shiver through the room. His eyes burned with unbridled fury, and, as the troll had warned earlier, the air around him grew dense, heavy with power.

"Dere it be..." Zy'chaal approached showing little to no fear. He kneeled before Leo and looked at him with worry and sorrow- an expression he's never showed before. "Da raven fear for yeh too."

Leo's nostrils flared, his irritation palpable, but at the mention of the raven, Saiya, his expression softened—if only slightly. His features returned to their usual calm, though the annoyance lingered in his gaze. "If she’s so concerned," he said sharply, "why hasn’t she come to me about this herself?"

"She fears yeh, Voidsinga. She know what yeh are capable of doin' to her if yeh let that power overtake yeh. Best to not be in yeh way when it happens."

A look of guilt crossed Leo's face at the confession, "She really thinks I will succumb to something that much?"

"We both do."

A look of surprise now, "I am fine. I feel great, honestly."

"I taut yeh were tired?" Zy'chaal tilted his head, calling Leo's bluff. "Yeh lied."

Leo stared down at his hands, turning them over as if expecting to see the transformation his companions claimed to witness—but there was nothing. No sign of the monster they feared. His voice wavered as he finally admitted, "I did lie. And I’m… so sorry for that."

Pressing his palms against his face, he let out a heavy sigh, the weight of his guilt pressing down on him. After a moment, he rubbed his face and lowered his hands again, his expression weary.

"It isn't like yeh, Voidsinga. Sometin' is happenin' to yeh. But I will remain 'ere and watch yeh. Just like I promised. I hear dem whispers too. And they be sayin' a lot about yeh. Yeh be important to them and everyone 'ere. Dun let dem take yeh." Zy'chaal placed his large hand at Leo's cheek. "Stay wit us."

Leo raised his hand, letting it rest gently atop the one at his cheek. His gaze locked onto Zy'chaal’s, searching those eyes for the comfort he desperately wanted to find. Every fiber of his being longed to make that promise, to give the reassurance Zy'chaal sought—but something deep within him resisted, a quiet, stubborn force that refused to yield.

No lying.

[themidnightleo]

Attention

This excerpt is written in the point of view of a Zandalari named Zy'chaal.

In the verdant embrace of the Jade Forest, Zy'chaal, a Zandalari, caught sight of an elf darting past him with unmatched swiftness. Determined, he endeavored to track and pursue the Ren'dorei with hair as dark as midnight. The elf's rapid pace posed a challenge, especially in Zy'chaal's current form. Waiting patiently amidst the dense foliage, the Zandalari underwent a transformation, morphing into a formidable black dragon before launching into the skies.

His form now shrouded in the essence of the void, leaving a lingering trail in his wake, Zy'chaal allowed the currents of wind and sound to guide him. His path led him towards The Valley of the Four Winds, where it seemed the elf had concluded his journey. Hovering high above, Zy'chaal observed not with mere eyes but with the augmented perception granted by his corruption. The elf had arrived at the abode of yet more elves.

"Hm…" resonated Zy'chaal's deep timbre as he pondered the Ren'dorei with a blend of thoughtfulness and curiosity. Circling well above the elven enclave, he waited for the opportune moment to approach, withdrawing to a distance for the time being.

It was only a matter of time…

Or so he hoped.

[themidnightleo]

Blackout

DWC- Day 6- Vanity/Feelings CW: Some blood and brutality at the very end

They stood intertwined in Ashenvale, each wrapped in the other's embrace, their significance to one another palpable. Perched nearby amidst the ruins were two ravens, exuding a mysterious void-like aura. Leo held his mysterious paramour close—a masked woman he'd encountered at a masquerade only a month or two prior. Since then, they had met in clandestine disguises, concealing their true identities from each other. Yet, their emotions had blossomed undeterred.

Masked and locked in an affectionate embrace, Leo's new love, known as "Mirage," whispered tender words to him, "I am glad that I have earned a place within your heart. For you surely have earned a safe haven within mine."

"I can only hope to do my place within your heart justice."

"But you already have, My Liege."

"What made you think you can trust me? And let me in? You haven't seen my face."

"Why would I need to see your face to see you? To truly see you? I know what you have given to me, I know how you've made me feel. I need nothing else from you beyond that. It matters not how you appear, but it matters more what kind of person you are."

Leo stood there, stunned by her words. His entire existence had been built upon the premise of presenting the best version of himself, primarily through his appearance. His face was his tool, his weapon—it was what drew people in, whether they were potential lovers or potential adversaries. It was all he believed he had.

All he had.

Yet, in that moment, the woman in his arms had shattered that belief by suggesting that he was lovable beyond his face.

As always, just when things seemed to be going well, and genuine affection was being offered to him, the voices started. It was the madness that came with the touch of the void, a constant internal struggle that he grappled with daily. Some days were easier to bear than others.

But today, the void seemed determined to triumph.

Leo staggered backward, his hands clutching his head as if trying to fend off the onslaught of voices and doubts that threatened to consume him.

Lies. You know you aren't worth anything without your face, your body. You will always be a tool of satisfaction and nothing more. You know this won't last. They all leave, they always do. She'll leave and so will all the others. It is only a matter of time..

The cacophony of voices, spanning all ranges, relentlessly battered Leo's mind, causing him physical anguish as he struggled to combat them. In the midst of this turmoil, the only respite came from the mental connection he shared with his spouse through their soulbind. Trist's soothing voice flooded his consciousness, bringing a sense of calm amidst the storm.

"Focus on her here my love she had no reason to lie. You are a King. A lord. You're a leige because of your darkness and your passion but she speaks. Truth because there is no reason to lie to a fantasy." Trist's voice had always served as a balm, something to ease even the darkest of Leo's moments.

"GET AWAY FROM ME!!" In real-time, Leo let out a primal roar directed at Mirage, a warning as the inner dialogue continued to communicate with his spouse. He understood the precariousness of the situation, knowing all too well that things could spiral out of control in the blink of an eye.

Despite the relentless resistance put up by the darkest aspects of Leo's psyche, Trist remained a steadfast source of reassurance, "I am here for you my dark god."

As Leo felt himself losing grip on every fragment of his being, sinking further into the abyss of madness, an unexpected relief washed over him. The voices, once tumultuous and overpowering, began to subside, their relentless pursuit of his psyche relenting.

However, it was a fleeting reprieve. Before he could fully grasp this newfound calm, Mirage, having witnessed Leo's descent into madness, took drastic action. With a forceful display of her own void powers, she bound him to a nearby pillar with aggressive determination.

The moment Leo's back collided with the pillar, the world around him plunged into darkness, enveloping him in its ominous embrace.

And all went black...

Minutes later, Leo regained consciousness, only to find himself sprawled on the ground, consumed by agony. His skin was charred, and it felt as though fire raged within him. A deep gash marred his right bicep, and his clothes hung in tatters. His once-fair skin now bore a hue as black as the night sky, shimmering with an ethereal starlight.

Art by SCHUREIZEG on YCH.Commishes

Beside him lay his lover, similarly transformed and bearing multiple wounds from the ordeal- mauled and bloody. Her beautiful dress had been in strips and torn to pieces. Though battered and bruised, she was alive, her breaths a testament to her survival.

What have I done?

@daily-writing-challenge

[themidnightleo]

One Jump Ahead

DWC- Day 5- Notorious/Altruistic

Snatch.

With deft movements, apples vanished from one spot, a loaf of bread from another. The necklace of a noble disappeared, as did someone else's entire bag.

What's that commotion? Whoops, was that your sandwich? Not anymore.

Silvermoon City was gripped by a plague of thievery, perpetrated by a mysterious figure no one could apprehend. This elusive presence came and went swiftly, leaving market vendors in uproar.

Leo huddled in his humble abode, surveying his day's haul, mostly food for sustenance. Any material possessions would be sold off come morning to the fence.

Posters plastered the city walls, branding the culprit as "The Void".

"The Void? Hm, not bad. But could be better," Leo mused, emerging from his hideout to examine the poster. "No picture. How do they expect anyone to catch this person?" He flagged down passersby, pointing to the poster. "Seen this?" he asked.

The couple nodded. "Hope they catch whoever it is. A menace. A leech," they remarked, eyeing Leo's disheveled appearance with disdain.

"Indeed. But how will they catch them without a picture?" Leo queried genuinely.

"They'll set traps, obviously. What else?" the couple retorted.

"Traps? Like what?" Leo inquired.

"Bait them with what they steal most," they explained, rolling their eyes and moving on, advising Leo to take a bath.

Insults were nothing new to Leo- whether about his smell or looks, he had heard it all. He pondered the idea of traps as he returned to his makeshift shelter for the night. "Traps, huh? Good to know," he muttered before retiring.

@daily-writing-challenge

[themidnightleo]

Showtime

DWC- Day 4- Vengeance/Satisfaction

You have practiced for weeks. You got this.

Throughout the evening, an inner monologue had persisted as the show unfolded—a grand display of talent that many eagerly awaited each year, and now Leo was about to participate. Confidence had filled him until this very moment. But why? He knew all the steps, the lyrics to the songs, the flair and tricks to enhance the performances. Yet, he found himself paralyzed at the mere thought of stepping onto the stage.

One stellar performance followed another, each act leaving the audience in complete awe. Every performer seemed to outdo the last, raising the bar higher and higher. How could the act Leo was a part of possibly surpass any of these outstanding displays?

The day had been fraught with tension due to personal matters, heightening the difficulty of the evening for Leo. Swallowing thickly, he endeavored to push aside the weight of it all and concentrate on the present moment—the performance.

Indeed, it was challenging when the issues loomed large, particularly with his bandmates. Tension simmered between Trist and Leo, stemming from Leo's single-minded focus on perfecting the performance, inadvertently neglecting their relationship in the process. Additionally, Faolan seemed perturbed by Leo's recent involvement with a new lover, further complicating matters within the group dynamic.

And to add to the complexity, Leo's new lover was among the audience members, adding another layer of emotional tension to the already fraught situation.

As if caught in a whirlwind of chaos, everything felt like it was spiraling out of control. However, in a sudden and unexpected turn of events, everything snapped back into place the moment the announcement was made.

"Please welcome Night Blooming Vulpine!"

There it was. The moment had arrived. Leo exchanged glances and nods with the band, a silent coordination between them. He told himself he was ready—or at least, that's what he wanted to believe. As the music started, signaling it was time to get into place, Leo braced himself for what was to come.

Shadows.

A multitude of eyes watched intently. Lovers, friends, best friends—all of them focused on Leo and the band. The weight of their expectations bore down on him, intensifying the pressure of the moment.

Don't mess up, don't mess up.

Leo moved with the music, seamlessly singing his parts and interacting with the others on stage as if all tension had vanished. Yet, beneath the surface, they were all merely playing their roles, putting on a performance that masked the underlying complexities of their relationships.

Art by nastovski on YCH.Commishes

One song done. Two songs done. Three songs. Four. And then the finale.

After taking a bow and basking in the roaring cheers from the crowd, Leo's smile widened, grateful that they had thoroughly enjoyed everything the band had to offer. Backstage, he shared in the jubilation with both Trist and Fao, reveling in their collective victory. Adrenaline surged through their veins, electrifying them with the thrill of the moment.

Despite the challenges and complexities they faced, they had this moment, and it was undeniably beautiful.

@daily-writing-challenge

[themidnightleo]

Something Lost, Something Gained

DWC- Day 3- Bargain/ Myth

He had recently awoken, the lingering venom coursing through his veins, though its potency seemed diminished, as if countered by an antidote. Leo lay still, devoid of the strength even to shift his gaze around the room.

Bang, bang. He jerked in surprise. A voice, loud and filled with anger, reverberated through the space, striking every wall with its forceful presence.

Bang BANG.

Another involuntary twitch. His brain seemed to thrash against the confines of his skull, the sensation worsening with each passing moment as the overly excited voice persisted.

What were we talking about? Why the yelling? Can everything just stop existing for a moment?

A torrent of burning questions raced through his paralyzed mind as he struggled to compose himself, helpless and at the mercy of those surrounding him. The voice continued to yell, its words echoing loudly. "I trusted her with you!" it reverberated in his ears, cutting through the turmoil in his thoughts.

Oh, right. That's what we were talking about.

It had to cease—all of it. The agony, the anguish of his loved ones, the relentless sound.

"I won't see her anymore..." Leo spoke weakly.

A wave of shock rippled through the room. Leo understood the gravity of the situation, the significance of relinquishing this particular beloved, who held a special place in his heart. Yet, he was prepared to sacrifice anything to alleviate the suffering of those around him, especially Trist, the voice's owner.

"Are you sure...?" the question came hesitantly from Trist. "I am sure." Leo responded.

It wasn't a falsehood. Leo was certain he would sacrifice anything for his partner—certain that nothing was worth causing them distress. Yet, he understood it would come at a cost, though he hadn't fully comprehended what that might entail just yet.

@daily-writing-challenge

[themidnightleo]

Full Circle

DWC- Day 2- Suppress/Pastel

Another day dawned upon Stormwind, and Leo found himself navigating its streets with caution. The past few months had seen him keeping a low profile, laying low and hidden from the limelight, all thanks to a daring heist he had orchestrated against a renowned tavern within the city walls. Now, tentatively stepping onto the cobblestone pathways, he couldn't help but notice the lackluster ambiance that surrounded him, despite the city's usual bustle.

As he wandered through the maze of canals and districts, his journey led him to Lion's Rest, where a familiar figure caught his eye amidst the crowd—a certain ginger-haired dame.

GiGi Fiske.

GiGi had always been more than just a friend to Leo; she was his confidant, the one person with whom he shared his deepest secrets—something he couldn't bring himself to do with anyone else, not even his former partner in crime. Approaching her, Leo was serenaded by the gentle strains of a lute, played skillfully by a magenta-haired elf standing nearby—a sight and sound he had sorely missed.

After exchanging greetings with GiGi, Leo's attention was drawn back to the bard, whom she introduced as Trist'Ayran Ambrosio-Autumnrayne—a name that sparked recognition within him.

Trist'Ayran Ambrosio-Autumnrayne was his name.

Gif by Kotlass on YCH.Commishes

There was an undeniable allure to the lute player, a stark contrast to Leo's own demeanor. Clad in vibrant teal hues, the elf's attire screamed of brightness, his hair a striking color that caught Leo's eye. Despite the exuberance in his appearance, a somberness hung in the air as the lute's melancholic melody filled the space. Leo stood at a distance, observing the bard with keen interest. He noted the fluid movements, the subtle flicks of wrists and ankles that set the bells adorning Trist into motion, adding depth to the sorrowful tunes. Everything about the bard seemed to radiate sadness to those who paid attention.

Yet, as people passed by, smiles adorned their faces, greetings and compliments showered upon Trist for his masterful performance. It was indeed a captivating display, but they failed to grasp the pain concealed behind his façade.

Approaching the bard, Leo engaged him in conversation, each word tinged with a sense of desolation. The adeptness with which Trist crafted a façade of beauty to mask his inner torment intrigued Leo deeply. He felt compelled to delve further into the enigma that was the bard.

No, he NEEDED to unravel the mysteries veiled beneath Trist's cheerful exterior.

@daily-writing-challenge

[themidnightleo]

Stalking Prey

DWC- Day 1- Flirt

Leo had ascended far in his career as an escort, mastering the art of discerning people's desires and effortlessly weaving himself into their lives. Serving as the coveted trophy on the arm of nobility had not only earned him a reputation but also a substantial fortune, ensuring his comfort and style. Now, he reveled in his sense of power, feeling capable of manipulating anyone to fulfill his whims.

His latest target was a formidable businesswoman, the mistress of an extensive trading empire. Enthralled by her strength, cunning, and beauty, Leo saw her as the ultimate challenge. Standing nearly as tall as him, with a gaze that could intimidate the most confident man, she presented the perfect opportunity to test his skills.

One day, he made his move in the bustling market, shadowing her as she discreetly made mundane purchases. Leo observed her every move, analyzing her demeanor and mannerisms to devise his approach. Her effortless grace and poise were qualities he had spent years honing, yet she seemed to possess them effortlessly.

As he prepared to approach her, she preempted him with a cutting remark, piercing him with her steely gaze. Leo, dressed as a nobleman but far from it, sensed her judgment, perhaps aware of his profession and the façade of charm he maintained. "Done stalking me? Finally found the courage to speak to me?"

With a respectful bow, Leo offered a fabricated apology, "I apologize for having such an uncouth way of coming to you but I had to ensure you were the owner of this piece of jewelry that I suspected fell from you." He then presented a stunning ruby necklace he had skillfully liberated from her possession. It was a gorgeous marquise shaped ruby necklace in silver, feathers appearing to spring from the gem itself. Her finger had a ring that matched it's likeliness. Her surprise momentarily softened her icy demeanor as she accepted the necklace, her mind racing to comprehend how it had been returned to her.

Lifting it slowly from his palm she muttered, "Thank.. you." Her eyes remained on him in thought. Leo tilted his head, "Is something wrong?" She observed the necklace. It was very much real and it was hers. "How- when..." Leo smoothly deflected her inquiries with a fabricated tale of happenstance, masking his true actions behind a veneer of chivalry. He smiled at her, "Sometimes their latches can come loose. That goes for -any- piece of jewelry. Fortunately I was nearby to see when it fell from your neck."

A lie. He had stolen it straight off her neck masterfully without her noticing the weight of it lifted from her body.

The businesswoman, grateful yet suspicious asked, "How do I repay a kindness such as this? This is a custom set that no other owns. You could have very well made your way home with it."

"And what sort of gentleman would I be had I done so?" Leo smiled softly.

"Oh so you are a gentleman now?" That judgmental glare returned with a perk of her brow.

"Suppose it is a matter of perspective. But I like to think I am. But never mind paying me back. It was nothing but a simple gesture of kindness I suppose." Dismissing any notion of repayment, Leo maintained his façade of gallantry, deflecting her skepticism with a charming smile. As he gracefully took his leave, a sly smirk danced upon his lips, knowing he had successfully intrigued her.

In a twist of fate, the businesswoman, intrigued by Leo's charisma, extended an unexpected invitation, unwittingly falling into his carefully laid trap.

The woman asked, "Are you free for lunch?"

@daily-writing-challenge

[themidnightleo]

Monster in the Mirror

Three days had elapsed since the Ashenvale incident had left him confined to his bed. Now, having regained the ability to stand, he seized a moment of solitude—perhaps the first since the unfortunate event unfolded. Confronting himself in front of a mirror towering over him, he locked eyes with his reflection. A surge of anger and hate emanated from within as he confronted the person who had lost control that day. The realization hit hard—he was the catalyst for all that had transpired.

"It's about time we had a conversation," he declared to his own reflection. Within the silvered surface, a distorted version of himself stared back—monstrous in appearance. His skin resembled a black void, adorned with small flecks of silver starlight. Antlers sprouted from his head, and his feet had taken on a digitigrade form, complete with claws on both hands and feet. His arms appeared elongated, contributing to the overall otherworldly aspect. Despite the unsettling transformation, the reflection remained silent, offering no response.

Art by nodensart on Twitter "Curious that you remain silent. Your sole talent is sowing chaos and wrecking everything for me," Leo said. "It seems your perspective is unique. However, if that's your way of admitting your weakness compared to me, I'll accept it." The creature in the mirror smirked, its voice deep and resonant, carrying a demonic quality capable of sending shivers down one's spine. "Your admirers seem to appreciate what I provide. 'She' found pleasure in my presence..."

Leo's eyes widened, his expression turning stern as he spoke with a grave seriousness, "Keep her out of this." "But that's precisely what this meeting is about, isn't it? How I had to assert my dominance when she dared to provoke me." "You lost." "She was immediately healed. She would have bled out and died, and you know it."

Leo recalled the pool of blood under her body when he found her on the ground. "What… happened? Why did it happen?" "She angered me. No one restrains me. Holds -us- down." Leo raised his voice, "Don't make this about me. YOU did this! Not me!"

“-We- did this.  Do not try to victimize yourself.  You could have very well stopped me and you didn’t.” “You took over.” “With your permission.”

Leo felt the anger surging within, his blood reaching a boiling point. Nevertheless, he attempted to regain composure, stating firmly, "I never gave you permission." "But, in essence, you did," the star-flecked monster grinned once more. "We are one person, Ithilios. I'm not a separate entity, though you may want to believe otherwise."

It was in that moment that Leo realized something. Would others perceive the reflection as he did? The monster, attuned to his thoughts, answered the unspoken query, "It's just you. Engaging in a profound conversation with yourself in a mirror. Pathetic, but I suppose it was about time. Took you long enough to arrive. Perhaps now we can understand each other better and actually collaborate. And maybe, just maybe, it won't require me attempting to harm a lover next time—"

Leo suddenly violently shattered the mirror into pieces, sharp shards cascading to the floor as his hand bled from a few cuts.

Amidst the wreckage, he growled with anger, "I explicitly warned you to keep her out of this..."

Art by chrisnazgul on Twitter

[themidnightleo]

Growing Pains

While Leo's introduction to the world of escorting may not have been the smoothest, his determination to turn it into a sustainable livelihood was unwavering. Surprisingly adept at the job, Leo not only mastered the physical aspects but also gained a profound understanding of the mental and behavioral expectations from his noble clientele.

As time passed, days morphed into weeks, weeks into months, and months into years. Despite the aging process, Leo remained relatively young, considering how early he had embarked on this unconventional career. Now, he was not only well-versed in the physical intricacies but had also honed his skills in understanding and satisfying the emotional needs of his recurring customers.

Leo became a purveyor of fulfillment, ensuring complete satisfaction for his patrons at the end of each encounter—whether it concluded in the late hours of the night or extended into the morning, contingent on the compensation. While Leo admittedly had favorites among his clientele, every encounter was just another job—a cycle of dazzling, charming, bedding, and repeating.

The protocol was clear: payment upfront, a night of charming companionship, and a return to regular life the next day. No attachments, no emotional entanglements—just a transactional exchange.

Yet, amidst the routine, one patron grew unexpectedly possessive and jealous.

"Where are you going?" she asked, her voice filled with sleepiness as daylight gently crept into the room.

"Home, Shandrial. As always," Leo replied, his tone soft and composed. Sitting at the edge of the bed, he exuded a quiet confidence.

She reached over, groaning, "Must you? Stay with me..."

With a sigh, he turned to look at her—a vision of radiance. However, Shandrial was just another customer. "How much longer?"

A hopeful smile played on her lips. "Forever... I'd hope."

Leo frowned, glancing away. "Shandrial, you know the rules. This is not— you are messing this up."

She sat up, questioning, "So what then? You're just going to keep selling yourself to the highest bidder?!"

"YES! THAT'S WHAT I DO! Remember?! We agreed on this. You understood," Leo asserted, standing up to retrieve his clothes.

Wrapped in linens, she moved to follow him until Leo raised a hand, signaling her to stop. "No. We're done."

"I will ruin your reputation," she growled.

He chuckled. "Sweetheart, I am an escort... No matter what you say, they all want to —fuck— me. Just like you."

Enraged, she hurled a lamp in his direction, her screams echoing through the room. With graceful agility, Leo effortlessly evaded the airborne projectile, savoring the satisfaction that her outburst provided. "You're nothing but a selfish brat. But I suppose that's to be expected from your kind. I am something money will never buy you. I still possess my dignity and will never submit to some noble as their permanent plaything. May your next escort be as skilled as I am. Frankly, I doubt anyone can match the way I bend and satisfy you just right." Leo winked as he gathered his clothes, leaving the noblewoman to throw her tantrum in solitude.

He bid a subtle farewell to the mansion's servants with a knowing wink, gracefully making his exit. In that moment, Leo carried an understanding that the grand doors closing behind him marked the end of any future encounters with Shandrial.

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[themidnightleo]

New Friend

It didn't take long after Leo severed ties with his first love, who had been his everything but had, like others before, abruptly departed from his life. Each time, she would vanish without explanation, leaving Leo to bear the scars of her absence, hidden behind a stoic smile.

Had she truly been absent for as long as he believed, or was he deluding himself? No, he realized he was making excuses again. It was time for her to leave, and so she did. Leo orchestrated it, but the difficulty of the act could potentially unravel him.

Alone in an opulent bed surrounded by the darkest, most gothic aesthetics, Leo lay there, staring at the canopy after a night of restless tossing and turning. The voices in his head surged with activity, assaulting him with piercing words.

There goes another. No one will ever stay. See how worthless you are? Why are you even alive?

The verbal onslaught felt like a barrage of knives stabbing deep into his soul. He writhed, attempting to control the internal chaos, but nothing seemed to work.

Finally, he erupted in a deafening roar, unleashing a shockwave of darkness that shattered everything around him. It was a power he hadn't tapped into before, unaware he possessed. In its aftermath, he sat in the demolished space, his widened and pained eyes surveying the wreckage of his mind's torment.

For a moment, the voices fell silent, but the whispers gradually returned, growing louder. The patriarch of the Root came to Leo's aid, accompanying him through the night and many more until he could manage the voices once again.

Returning to his gothic abode, Leo stood alone, gazing into the pitch-black night. A raven landed beside him—an unexpected visitor.

The raven tilted its head. "Finally, you came home, Master." Leo blinked, incredulous that the raven had spoken directly to his mind. "I've been waiting for you." "How...?" "I felt your power when I was born. But you were nowhere to be found. So I waited for you." "Who are you?" "I am whatever you need me to be."

Over the next few days, Leo sought to understand the capabilities of this strange void raven and eventually bestowed upon her a name.

Saiya.

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[themidnightleo]

After Dark

The latest After Dark soirée, hosted by the enigmatic Succulent Tarts, unfolded tonight. Leo effortlessly slipped into his sleek black leather thigh-high boots, paired with shorts and a tantalizing corset vest. His face adorned with alluringly dark makeup, accentuating his amethyst eyes. Accompanied by his ever-present husband, they embarked to the event.

Securing front-row seats among the eager crowd, Leo and Trist anticipated a night made even more special by the impending performance of their lover, Anzhin. The copper-haired half-elf's sensual showcase drew not only Leo and Trist's attention but also others who shared an intimate connection with him.

The diverse array of performers presented a series of erotic spectacles, each leaving an indelible impression on Leo and his husband, who sat together, suggesting a promise of enjoyment.

"If you behave tonight, you might just get what you desire," Leo stated with a seriousness that conveyed the depth of his intent.

As the performances concluded, the after-party unfolded. Trist took to the dance floor with Anzhin, while Leo opted for a refreshing beverage to quench his lingering thirst.

Rather than joining the dance, Leo positioned himself on the periphery, a silent spectator to the unfolding festivities. The duo on the dance floor reveled in the joy of each other's company, while Trist, not content with just the dance, engaged in short conversation with Dice. The pair, noticing Leo's more reserved stance, playfully nudged him toward a conversation with Ryland. Leo, making the best of the moment, attempted to catch Ryland's eye with a subtle gesture from across the dance floor. When it went unnoticed, he gracefully redirected his focus, particularly fixating on Trist, who now moved with a captivating flair, dancing not just for the room but with an undeniable intention to captivate Leo's undivided attention.

Without uttering a word, Leo became a silent observer, his eyes fixed on Trist, the predator studying its prey. Even as others approached, inviting Leo to join the dance, nothing could divert his attention from his captivating husband.

As the night wore on, the crowd dwindled, and Leo's patience wore thin. "I'm tired. How about you?" he asked Trist.

"Exhausted," came Trist's immediate response, his voice tinged with a deadpan stance.

Leo sighed, casually hooking a finger at Trist's collar to draw him close. "Then I suppose it's time for us to depart, don't you think?"

Trist nodded as Leo, still holding the collar, led them out of the event.

Once outside, in the quiet of the night, Trist muttered, "Ruin me..."

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[themidnightleo]

Unmerry Holidays

The year had whisked by in a blur, and suddenly, Leo found himself gazing at the unmistakable face of December – Winter Veil.

During his childhood, it held no particular significance for Leo, a boy who had grown up fending for himself without the luxury of festive gifts or celebrations. Each passing day was just another chapter in the book of survival.

However, as he grew older, Winter Veil took on a newfound importance over the past few years. It transformed into a source of joy and merriment for his children. Witnessing their delighted shrieks as they unwrapped gifts and baked cookies for Greatfather Winter became everything Leo could ever desire. It was also a time of heightened, unresolved awareness for the struggles faced by his husband.

In their initial year together, Leo had orchestrated Winter Veil to be a grand spectacle, aiming to eclipse any lingering negative memories associated with the holiday. Since then, he made an effort to perpetuate that spirit.

Now, the season was upon them once again.

Leo found himself pacing his room, lost in contemplation. He delved deep into the recesses of his mind, seeking inspiration from the farthest reaches. Despite his efforts, he found himself grappling with a sense of emptiness.

What could he do to ensure the happiness of his nearest and dearest, regardless of the cost or the strings he might need to pull? Leo stood before the fireplace, his mind already painting a vivid picture of it adorned with festive decorations while the children eagerly plotted to create s'mores over its crackling flames with their trusty partner-in-crime, Faolan. A smirk played on Leo's lips at the delightful prospect. Winter Veil had transformed into a truly joyous occasion, each passing year more precious than the last.

With a nod to himself, Leo felt a surge of newfound determination. This year would surpass all others, becoming the pinnacle of happiness and merriment for each of them.

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