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Chapter Text

Magnolia was seated on the soft blankets of moss in the castle garden. She had been taking notes of plant growth and organisms within the miniature forest. 

"Iris, ivy, lily, rose.." The princess murmured to herself, tapping her pen against the notebook she held. It was beautifully bound, with golden swirls and flowers embroidered with silk. She gently brushed her pen over a sketch of a magnolia flower. She shifted her attention to the grand oak doors at the entrance of the garden, framed with an arch formed from twisting branches covered in vines and flowers as soft footsteps echoed through the hall. They stopped near the door, softly knocking on the door three times. 

"Come in," Magnolia called, trying to be just loud enough to be heard through the thick doors. Luckily, the servant heard her, and creaked open the doors slowly.

"What is it, Angel?" Magnolia inquired, standing up and dusting off her black dress pants. She closed the notebook, tucking the pen into the pages. 

The servant in question bowed, before looking up at the princess with sparkling hazel eyes. "You are required at the throne, your majesty." The servant, Angel, answered. 

"Thank you. Tell them I will be there shortly."

Angel bowed again and left the room quietly. As soon as the large doors closed, she sighed. What is it this time?   The princess pondered, walking to the doors and pulling them open. She pulled a piece of paper from in between the branches of the natural arch, humming in thought as she opened the small note. Analyzing it for a minute, she gradually folded it back up and tucked it between the branches again. There were many notes stuck into the branches, and everyone knew that the information hidden inside of them was strictly confidential. Being caught peeking at the notes, or even being in the garden without Magnolia's permission, was punishable by jailing, or even death. Magnolia smoothed out the creases in her Victorian ruffled blouse, which hugged her frame perfectly and outlined every dip and curve of her body. You must be pretty, princesses have to be beautiful and dignified,  Mother had told her. Magnolia rolled her eyes at the words, for she was more interested in sword fighting and gardening than being a pretty little princess. Mother had tried to get her to marry several princes before because she really wanted grandchildren. Magnolia refused, knowing she hadn't found the right one. Most princes only cared about status and wealth, not caring for their partner or making their "love" happy. Before she had more time to bask in her thoughts, Magnolia reached the end of the hall. She pushed open the doors, leading to the throne room. There stood her father, for her mother had died years ago. Thinking about it made soft tears prickle her eyes. She blinked the feeling away and walked inside, stepping up to the throne and seating herself. Slowly placing a golden crown upon her head, bedazzled with rose quartz and opal, she sighed and composed herself.

"What do you require of me, Father?" She inquired, glancing over at her father.

"Well, you do know how much your mother wanted to find you a prince.." The man began, meeting Magnolia's piercing golden eyes. 

Magnolia was barely able to stop herself from bursting that very moment. She pinched the bridge of her nose, closing her eyes and sighing. 

"Where is this going, Father?" She finally said after trying to calm down so she didn't figuratively explode.

"I've found you a prince, I know you'll love him, please, just trust me, Magnolia," The king pleaded with his daughter.

"Father, you know my studies are important to me. Having a lover would only be distracting for me, and I'm not gonna love a stranger I barely know. I don't even know their name! " Magnolia said, incredibly frustrated.

"Please, just give it a chance, for me, please?" The king pleaded once more, his eyes brimming with hope and desperation.

Magnolia sighed. "Fine, but no more playing matchmaker with my life if this doesn't work out, okay?" She said. 

The king nodded, a sincere smile spread across his face.

Time to meet the "love of her life."

 Bryony was painting in their room, gently stroking the brush here and there. They were just about to dab the brush in more paint when a soft knock came at the door. They set the brushes down, getting up and stretching.

"Come in," They said. 

A servant walked in, carrying a letter sealed with a wax stamp that pictured a light pink flower. Lily, was it? No, Magnolia. It was a magnolia flower.

Interesting, Bryony thought as they took the letter and peeled off the seal carefully. A milky white letter came out of the envelope, written in perfect calligraphy. 

This letter is addressed to Bryony and the Kingdom of Nymoria. 

Greetings, Prince Bryony. This letter is sent from King Gladiolus of Gardenia Kingdom. This letter has been sent to formally invite you to my castle for dinner and to meet my daughter. I believe it would be the best for both of our kingdoms for you to engage with my daughter. This act would enhance both the kingdom's status and wealth. I hope you will consider my offer. 

Kind regards,

King Gladiolus. 

Bryony scrunched their eyebrows in confusion. Are my parents in on this? They sighed. I guess I’m gonna have to change..

After changing, Bryony ventured down to their mother’s chambers and knocked on the door, hoping she would be there.

“Come in.” their mother murmured, clearly preoccupied.

Bryony opened the door softly.

“Mum?”

“Oh hello Bry, darling. I was just journaling, do you need to talk to me?” 

“Uh- well I wanted to ask you about the letter I received? The letter from King Gladiolus, that is.” 

They shuffled their feet awkwardly, hoping their mother didn’t have anything to do with it.

“Ah, yes. Your father thought it was about time we tried to find you a bride,” Their mother’s eyes gleamed with hope.

“What? Mum, you know I don’t want to be in a relationship yet. Why did you help plan this?”

Queen Amira winced, she had hoped that Bryony would take it well.

“Your father insisted, he and King Gladiolus are old friends, and you and Magnolia are around the same age..”

“I don't even know her, Mum.”

“Well that’s why your father thought a dinner might be nice, you’ll get to meet her. Who knows? You might even like her,” She smiled.

“Just give her a chance, please,” She gazed at Bryony hopefully.

“Fine,” Bryony grumbled, and promptly walked out of the room.

While glowering about having to go all the way to Gardenia just to meet a girl they already thought they wouldn’t like, they wandered into the courtyard.

The sky was a light azure blue, and fluffy clouds were scattered here and there.

They laid on a large flat rock and closed their eyes, slowly drifting off into a dreamless sleep.

Or an.. almost, dreamless sleep...

Bryony was in someone else’s room, soft morning light filtering in through the curtains. They felt strangely at peace. Trying to recollect how they got there, and where there was, they turned their head to the side and caught a flash of light pink hair..

And everything around them slipped away.

They woke up with a start, not remembering the dream at first. Brushing a few petals off of them, and glancing at the flowering apple tree above them, they stood up. As the dream floated back into their mind, a servant called to them across the courtyard.

“Prince Bryony! The carriage is ready and your parents are waiting."

Magnolia rested her arms upon the sides of the throne, waiting for something to happen. As she pondered who this mystery prince was and why they had even agreed to come here, the doors of the throne room creaked open slowly. Speak of the devil, Magnolia internally sighed. She watched as her “Prince Charming” walked through the doors. They continued walking down the long, blood red carpet until they came to a stop at the steps of the throne. They bowed, head down. The princess angled her head so that she would be making eye contact when the person looked up. They did just that, and met her gaze. 

Bryony grinned at Magnolia. 

“Your Majesty,” They said, although Magnolia wasn’t sure if it was sarcastic or not. 

“Greetings, Prince Bryony! It is wonderful you came all this way to see my daughter,” King Gladiolus smiled at the prince. The prince smiled back, looking over at the king.

“Come, come, you can stay in my daughter’s room until dinner is ready,” The king invited.

“It would be my pleasure,” Bryony responded, shifting their gaze back to Magnolia. She tried her best to keep a calm expression on her face, but she was on the verge of screaming. 

“Lead Prince Bryony to your room, Magnolia,” King Gladiolus smiled at the prince.

“As you wish, Father.”

Chapter Text

Magnolia took Bryony by the hand, wrapping her fingers around their wrist and leading them to her room. They walked down the halls, Magnolia completely silent except for her echoing footsteps. Bryony, however, grinned at Magnolia as they noticed the way Magnolia was holding their hand. 

“Leading me to your bedroom already? Buy me a drink first,” Bryony quipped. Magnolia turned the same shade as her pink hair, rolling her eyes. She pushed open the door to her bedroom and practically shoved Bryony inside. “Shut up,” Magnolia told the ginger. 

“That’s no way to treat your Prince Charming,” Bryony said sarcastically, grinning, and pretending to be offended.

“Drop the act, Bryony,” Magnolia said, exasperated. She turned to leave the room and leave Bryony there.

“Hey, where are you going? Your father told you to lead me to your room,” Bryony said, settling on the edge of her bed.

“He never said I had to stay with you. Wait here until dinner is prepared,” Magnolia commanded, walking away. Bryony got up, grabbing her wrist gently. 

“Where are you going?” They pondered.

“To the garden. Now leave me alone,” She responded, although she didn’t try to push Bryony away.

“Can I come with you?” 

Magnolia seemed to consider the offer, before finally sighing. 

“Fine, but don’t touch anything unless I say you can,” The princess said with a stern look.

Bryony grinned. 

“Lead the way.”

As Magnolia practically dragged Bryony down the hallway, they tried very hard not to stare at her. After studying her fluffy hair and perfectly unwrinkled clothes, they grinned wolfishly at the way she was holding their hand.

“Leading me to your bedroom already? Buy me a drink first,” Bryony quipped at Magnolia.

They pretended not to notice the extent to which Magnolia blushed.

Which was, to say, a lot .

Magnolia opened the door to, Bryony guessed, her bedroom, and shoved them inside. 

“Shut up,” Magnolia ordered Bryony.

“That’s no way to treat your Prince Charming,” Bryony commented, pretending to be offended, grinning at the look Magnolia gave them.

“Drop the act, Bryony,” Magnolia replied, already tired of Bryony’s antics.

She turned to leave and abandon Bryony.

“Hey, where are you going? Your father told you to lead me to your room,” Bryony wondered why she was already so tired of them.

I can’t be that annoying, right?

“He never said I had to stay with you. Wait here until dinner is prepared,” Magnolia commanded, starting to leave. Bryony stood up and gently grabbed her wrist.

“Where are you going?” They asked.

“To the garden. Now leave me alone,” She answered, not trying to push Bryony away.

“Can I come with you?”

I mean it’s not like I have anything else to do. Plus, I don’t want tonight to be a complete waste.

“Fine, but don't touch anything unless I say you can.”

Bryony grinned.

“Lead the way.”

As Magnolia dragged Bryony along to the garden, she trained her eyes on the ground in front of her. She focused on the ground, and not on the fact that her hand fit perfectly in Bryony’s, or the fact that she nearly got lost in those passionate, confident hazel eyes- No, quit it. It’d take more than hand-holding and eye contact for Magnolia to fall in love with this complete stranger.

But you want to, A voice in her mind supplied. She pushed the thought away and continued to guide Bryony down the hall. The princess pushed open the large wooden doors, hesitant to let go of the ginger’s hand. Eventually, she did, and went inside. Bryony followed shortly after, admiring the large ivy arch that loomed over the door. Noticing a slip of paper stuck between one of the branches, they reached for it. Magnolia reacted instantly, grabbing their wrist with surprising strength and force. 

“ Don’t, ” Magnolia warned, her voice threatening but calm.

“Oh- Sorry,” Bryony quickly apologized, walking away from the arch. Magnolia seemed to relax as soon as they did, humming to themself and continuing to jot things down in their notebook. Before she knew it, she found herself drawing those glimmering toffee eyes, that chiseled perfect build, those-

She stopped, her pen in the middle of a line. Bryony was peering down at her notebook.

“Whatcha drawing?” They asked with a grin.

Magnolia slammed the notebook shut.

“It’s- well it’s- just- it- nothing,” She stammered, turning the same shade as her hair. Bryony grinned, chuckling.

"C'mooon, show me, it's not that bad, right?" Bryony laughed.

"It's nothing," Magnolia said, tucking a loose strand of pink hair behind her ear.

"Whatever you say," Bryony said, unconvinced. A comfortable silence followed, Bryony admiring the garden and Magnolia reading a book. Bryony grinned at the opportunity and appeared suddenly behind Magnolia, placing their hands on her shoulders.

“GOTCHA!” Bryony exclaimed as Magnolia slammed her book shut and jolted. She turned around, irritated. She glared at Bryony, her eyes piercing and unforgiving. Bryony would’ve been the scared one if she wasn’t.. blushing? Her cheeks were a soft pink. It might’ve just been the ginger’s imagination, but it was strange either way. 

“What do you want, Bryony?” The princess asked, still glaring at them.

“Sorry, sorry, you just looked so distracted I had to,” Bryony said, trying to stifle laughter. Magnolia rolled her eyes and went back to the book. After a couple minutes, a knock came at the doors. 

“Come in,” Magnolia called, closing her book and placing it down. 

It was Angel, the servant. “Dinner is ready,” The girl informed Bryony and Magnolia.

“We’ll be there soon. Come on, let’s go,” Magnolia gestured for Bryony to follow her. No hand-holding this time. 

As Magnolia dragged Bryony along, (again) , they tried to ignore how perfectly their hands fit together.

Keep it together Bry, you already know she doesn’t like you, and it’s not like you even really wanted to come here.

Besides, the hand holding is just to make our parents happy, it doesn’t mean anything at all.

Magnolia opened the doors to the garden, and went inside, Bryony followed just after her. While admiring the large ivy covered arch over the door, they noticed a small slip of paper stashed in between two branches. Not quite thinking, Bryony reached for it. The princess grabbed their hand within a second, holding it steadily.

“Don’t,” Magnolia advised, keeping intense eye contact with Bryony the entire time.

“Oh- Sorry,” Bryony had to admit, they felt a little embarrassed, especially from the eye contact.

Magnolia’s piercing golden eyes had a way of finding their way into your heart and tugging at it.

Stealing it, even.

Bryony noticed that Magnolia was scribbling something- no, someone, in her notebook. They peered over to see, curious about what she was drawing.

“Whatcha drawing?” Bryony smirked, the drawing was a perfect likeness of them.

The pink haired princess slammed her notebook shut nervously.

“It’s- well it’s- just- it- nothing,” Magnolia turned as pink as her hair, barely able to stammer a few words.

"C'mooon, show me, it's not that bad, right?" Bryony chuckled, flattered.

"It's nothing," Magnolia blushed, tucking her hair behind her ear.

Her rosy hair perfectly enshrined her face, like the frame of a beautiful painting. Magnolia was just as much a piece of artwork as any painting in existence.

"Whatever you say," Bryony was unconvinced, the blushing princess was a terrible liar. You could tell by the blush alone, that’s not even to mention the stuttering.

A calm silence fell over the garden, it seemed to be hazed in a beautiful aura. One that could make anyone feel at home, no wonder Magnolia liked it so much.

Out of the corner of their eye, Bryony saw that Magnolia was quite focused on her book, and decided to have a little fun with her.

They snuck up behind her, careful not to make a sound, and..

“GOTCHA!”

Magnolia must have jumped about a foot, before slamming her book shut and whirling around to face the prince .

“What do you want, Bryony?” Magnolia glared at them.

Bryony probably would have been a little bit scared, except for the soft blush that crept like ivy up the princess’s cheeks.

“Sorry, sorry, you just looked so distracted I had to,” Bryony said, trying to choke down their laughter. Magnolia sighed and rolled her eyes.

A few minutes passed, and there was a knock at the doors.  

“Come in,” Magnolia called to whomever had knocked.

A small, black haired servant opened the doors.

“Dinner is ready,” the girl notified them.

Magnolia got up and dusted off her pants.

“We’ll be there soon. Come on, let’s go,” Magnolia motioned for Bryony to follow her.

To be honest, Bryony was disappointed that they weren’t holding hands.

Dinner was uneventful. They ate, washed, and all returned to their respective rooms. Since Bryony didn’t get a separate room, they had to stay in Magnolia’s. 

Just great, she thought. I have to take this stranger everywhere, and now they have to SLEEP with me? Wonderful. She sighed, now dressed in a light nightgown. 

Maybe that’s not so bad, her intruding thoughts said. She pushed it away and sat on the side of her bed. A minute later, Bryony opened the door in such a loud manner it was like they kicked it down. Magnolia, startled, jolted and shifted back on the bed. 

Bryony grinned at her annoyed expression. 

“Okay, so, you can sleep in the bed and I’ll go on the floor,” Magnolia told Bryony. 

“No, I’m the guest here, I’ll sleep on the floor,” Bryony insisted. 

“Fine, I don’t want to do this all night, you just sleep on the other side and stay away from me,” Magnolia concluded. Bryony just nodded in silent agreement and got onto the other side of the bed. Magnolia went to sleep practically instantly, so she must have been pretty tired. Bryony, on the other hand, couldn’t sleep, so they got up quietly and walked out to the balcony. They leaned on the railing, gazing up at the twinkling stars. The sky was especially bright tonight, streaked with dark purples and blues creating an abstract burst of colour in the night sky.

A couple minutes later, Bryony heard the bed creak and soft, staggered footsteps. It was Magnolia. She stumbled out to the balcony in a sleepy haze and draped her arms around Bryony’s shoulders.

“Magnolia?” Bryony spoke softly, afraid they would startle Magnolia.

“Mm..” She yawned. “Go to bed.. late,” She mumbled most of it but Bryony got the general sentiment. They reached up to place a hand on Magnolia’s arm. 

“I will, don’t worry about it,” Bryony reassured the sleepy princess. They carefully removed Magnolia’s arms from their shoulders and picked her up, bridal style. Setting her gently under the covers, Bryony was just about to walk back to the balcony when Magnolia murmured something.

“Mmm.. stay,” Magnolia muttered, quiet and sleepy.

“As you wish,” Bryony crawled under the covers and stayed a good distance away from Magnolia, recalling her words earlier. However, Magnolia wrapped her wings around Bryony and scuttled closer, her head resting in Bryony’s chest.

“Goodnight, Magnolia.”

Chapter Text

Magnolia shivered, even under the thick blankets of her bed. She felt something cold by her side, or rather, the absence of something. Shaking off the feeling, she pushed the covers off and rested against the headboard. Blinking repeatedly, she yawned and stretched her arms, feeling her shoulder brush against something feathery. 

My wings extended, Magnolia thought as she looked to her side to confirm that her wings were indeed fully out. When did that happen? I swear I tucked them in last night. She shrugged it off and tucked them back in, shuffling out of bed and pulling on slippers. Walking down to the dining room, the princess thought about what she would spend her time on today. The flowers are all watered, and I won’t need to check on the garden life for another 2 days, she recollected. She decided on practicing sword fighting today. Mentally planning out her day, she continued to walk down the hall until she nearly hit the doors of the dining room, lost in her thoughts. Walking through the doors, the girl noticed Bryony at the table, enjoying a nice plate of fluffy pancakes. They took a bite, glancing over to Magnolia.

“Look who finally decided to join us,” The prince commented in a smug manner, still chewing. “Come over here and have some breakfast, sleepyhead.”

“Don’t talk with your mouth full,” Magnolia rolled her eyes and walked over to the table. She sat next to Bryony, a plate of pancakes already waiting for her. Cutting a small piece from the stack, she dipped it in syrup and put it in her mouth. Bryony had already finished by now, and they were wiping syrup off their mouth with a cloth. They stood up, yawning.

“Well, I’ll be go-” Bryony stopped, looking down at Magnolia. “Oh.”

Magnolia looked back at them, confused.

Bryony reached down, grabbing a cloth off the table and turning towards Magnolia.

“What-” Magnolia was cut off by Bryony using the cloth to wipe a bit of syrup off her cheek. “There,” Bryony said, and folded the cloth, placing it onto the table. They just grinned at Magnolia and left the table without another word. 

Magnolia sat in stunned silence, feeling her face erupt into a blush. She reached her hand up to the spot where Bryony had wiped off the syrup. 

Why did they do that? Was it just a kind gesture? Why does my face feel so warm? Magnolia’s mind was racing. How did Bryony have so much control over her thoughts? It’s not like she loved them or anything, they were nothing more than two strangers in a castle.

That thought hurt more than it should have.

Magnolia finished her breakfast, dwelling in her thoughts and absently gazing out the windows. The sun was out today, and rays of sunlight streamed through the clouds. She headed back to her room, still quite lost in her thoughts. She opened the door to her room, not caring to knock. 

There stood Bryony, shirtless, back facing the princess. Upon hearing the door shift open, they turned around, smiling nonchalantly. 

“Well, hello to you too,” they smirked. 

Magnolia felt like her face was on fire. Her breath hitched in her throat as her eyes shifted down onto Bryony’s toned structure. 

“You like what you see?” Bryony spread their arms in a joking manner, grinning widely at Magnolia. It took her way too long to realize she was staring. 

“I- I- sorry- you- I didn’t-” Magnolia stammered out an apology, still burning red as she averted her gaze.

“Hey, it’s no big deal, you’ve never seen a person shirtless?” Bryony had to resist the urge to burst out in laughter. 

“No, of course not!” The princess exclaimed indignantly. 

Bryony just chuckled, getting dressed and then walking towards Magnolia. She quickly stepped back as Bryony leaned on the door frame, still smiling in a very, very smug manner. 

“I’ll- I’ll just go..” She just turned on her heel and quickly walked off. Bryony chuckled and went to go explore the castle. 

Magnolia walked off to the sword fighting practice arena. She still couldn’t get the thought of Bryony shirtless out of her head.

It’s fine- it’s nothing, just forget it, forget it..

She entered the arena and grabbed her sword. She practiced on one of the mannequins in the room, making sure to try different moves every time and maybe even throw in some stunts. Thirsty, she took a break and sat down on a bench, taking a sip of some water. Resting her elbows on her legs and her head in her hands, she heard someone enter the room. She tilted her head and looked over to them, her gaze met with warm toffee eyes. 

“What are you doing here?” Magnolia questioned Bryony. 

“Exploring the castle got boring, so I went off to find you.”

“This castle is incredibly large, how’d you find me?”

“One of your servants told me. Angel, was it?” 

“How did she know I was in here?”

“She said that you were usually in here this time of day when you weren’t in the garden. She led me to this little practice room, and here you are,” Bryony smiled, settling next to Magnolia on the bench.

Magnolia smiled, looking down at the ground. So Angel takes notes of my schedule? The princess found it rather endearing. 

“So, want to practice?” Bryony suggested, startling Magnolia out of her thoughts. It took her a second to process their words, but she got the message.

“Oh, are you sure? It might be too easy for me,” Magnolia teased, getting up and grinning at Bryony. 

“You’re on.” Bryony challenged.

Magnolia gripped the handle of her sword. It was polished and glinting, reflecting the determined golden gaze of her eyes. Bryony stood across from her, standing in the same stance, smirking. 

“Ready?” Bryony raised an eyebrow. 

“As I’ll ever be.”

The noise of blades hitting against each other filled the room, with the occasional huff or grunt. 

Magnolia ran at Bryony, attempting to swing her blade into their stomach, knowing they’d be able to block it. They did just so, and their blades pressed against each other. Their faces were incredibly close, and Magnolia could feel Bryony’s warm breath on her face. 

Are they.. blushing? Magnolia pondered, getting distracted for just a second. This second allowed Bryony to move out of the way and push Magnolia to the ground.

She held her blade out horizontally, shielding herself from any light hits Bryony attempted. 

“Ready to give up yet, my dear Magnolia?” Bryony teased, going for another hit.

Magnolia swiftly blocked it, panting. “Don’t get so cocky, my dear Bryony,” Magnolia mocked, then slid from under Bryony and moved so that she had a foot pressed against their back, pointing her blade to the ginger’s head. 

Bryony chuckled. Magnolia had moved her blade so that the tip was in the ground next to Bryony. Suddenly, Bryony jerked in an attempt to escape, and Magnolia lost her balance, still gripping tightly on the handle of the blade. 

Magnolia fell backwards as the air was knocked out of her lungs, and she spent a moment catching her breath. Rubbing her forehead and slowly opening her eyes, she caught the sight of Bryony, still on the ground. She was about to ask Bryony if they were okay, until her eyes caught something else.

A small pool of crimson red liquid spilling out of their side.

Oh, no.

Magnolia froze in fear and horror at what she’d done, mind overflowing with regret. She quickly rushed to Bryony’s side,  muttering a mix of curses and “oh my god.” 

“Bryony! Bryony, are you okay, are you-”  Magnolia was cut off by the sound of pained but genuine laughter. Slowly, Bryony sat up, holding an arm against the cut on their side. 

“You maniac! How could you laugh at a time like this?” Magnolia exclaimed rather indignantly. “Careful- don’t- Stop moving!”

Bryony just chuckled. “I’m fine, Magnolia. It’s just a small cut.”

“You are bleeding puddles.”

“So what if I am?” 

Magnolia scoffed and grabbed Bryony’s wrist with surprising strength. She dragged them to a bench and then forced them to sit down, walking off to go fetch the medical supplies. Luckily, the wound wasn’t all too bad, but it would require some rest for a couple of days. Bryony was just about to get off the bench, but Magnolia ran over to them and set a secure and assertive hand on their thigh.

“Sit.”

Bryony obeyed. There was no use objecting, and where could they go? Magnolia’s one of many servants would easily track them down, this castle was a labyrinth.

“Take off your shirt,” She said. 

Bryony grinned.

“Don’t even think of saying it.”

“Buy me a drink fir-” 

Magnolia prodded a finger onto the flesh surrounding the wound, and Bryony hissed in pain. It was Magnolia’s turn to grin. Bryony took off their shirt carefully, trying not to touch the wound. Magnolia cleaned it with disinfectant, while Bryony tried to ignore the stinging pain and the way Magnolia was ever-so-carefully brushing her fingers against their skin. The gentle contact made Bryony’s face erupt with red, but Magnolia didn’t seem to get it. 

“Are you okay? You’re all red. Do you need some water?” Magnolia tilted her head in confusion. 

Bryony cleared their throat, squirming under her piercing gaze. Those eyes would make the worst criminals confess in a heartbeat. 

“No- it’s just exhaustion, everything’s fine,” They lied as they broke eye contact nervously. 

Magnolia just hummed in acknowledgement and continued to just barely graze Bryony’s skin, sending shivers through their body like electricity. The princess hummed softly while bandaging their side, and then looked up. 

“You have a scrape on your chest,” She pointed out.

“I’m fine.”

“Let me clean it.”

“Listen, it’ll be fin-” Bryony tried to protest, but Magnolia had already started to rub a cotton pad onto the scrape. Bryony drew in a shaky breath, but it was most definitely not from the sting. Magnolia was practically fully against the prince’s chest, completely oblivious to how close they were. Bryony suppressed the urge to shiver as they felt every warm breath on their collarbone, or every delicate movement that Magnolia made. By the time that she finished cleaning the wounds, Bryony’s face was burning like the sun. 

“All done,” Magnolia smiled at them and then turned to put away the medical supplies.

“Th- Thank you,” Bryony said breathlessly, rising from the bench. 

“Careful, you might reopen the wound,” Magnolia warned.

What? Magnolia had put stitches in their side? Bryony was so distracted by the way Magnolia had maneuvered over their body they hadn’t even noticed the stitches.

“Yes, now come on, you need rest.”

“I’ll be fine,” Bryony moved to get up from the bench again. 

“Okay, but I’ll be watching you to make sure that you don’t open the wound again. You need to let it heal.” Magnolia locked her fingers with Bryony’s and started to stroll down the hall, talking about her favourite flowers. 

Magnolia didn’t mind the extra warmth on her hand.

For the next week or two, Magnolia followed Bryony everywhere to make sure the prince didn’t do anything to reopen the wound or injure themselves further. She’d rather cut off her tongue than admit it, but Magnolia started to like Bryony’s company. Their personality was the perfect amount of witty and charming, and it was easy to love. Love? Where did that come from? Magnolia waved the thought away, dismissing it as nothing but ‘silly feelings’ and ‘intrusive thoughts.’ The two were sitting in the garden, and Bryony was following a butterfly like a dazed child. A small smile stole across Magnolia’s lips as she watched them chase after the butterfly. She covered her mouth with a hand to try and stop her laughter, but small chuckles escaped through her fingers. Bryony was wildly chasing the butterfly, their furry tail waving around wildly. 

“What’s so funny?” Bryony smiled and made their way over to where Magnolia was seated. 

“Noth-” Magnolia was cut off by the ticklish sensation of Bryony’s tail brushing against her legs. “Hey, stop that! That tickles!” Magnolia giggled and Bryony smiled sweetly.

“Stop what, my dear?” Bryony said, widely grinning. Blood rushed up to her face and blossomed like a rose, covering her cheeks in red. She covered her face with a hand and murmured something. 

“What was that, dearest?” Bryony was grinning so hard Magnolia swore their face would split in half. 

“Nothing..” Magnolia mumbled, still covering her mouth with a hand. She shifted her gaze away from Bryony, and for the first time, Bryony saw that cold gaze melt into a warm embarrassment. Their grin shifted into a warm smile and a purr rumbled in their throat. 

“Are you.. are you purring?” Magnolia’s face was no longer bright red, but a pale shade of pink. 

Bryony quickly straightened up. “No,” They said, but the lie was clear in their voice. Magnolia smiled and giggled. The ginger blushed, thoroughly embarrassed. 

Suddenly, Magnolia clapped her hands and her face lit up. “Oh, that reminds me!” She exclaimed vaguely. 

“What?” Bryony was confused. 

Magnolia just smiled and gently grabbed their wrist. Before Bryony questioned it, she was leading them out of the garden and into the halls. The pillars were engraved with depictions of winding ivy vines and magnolia flowers. The stained glass made the light spill into the room, as if a rainbow had cracked and shattered into pieces of light. Bryony admired the hall like a kid in a candy store. Eventually, Magnolia came upon a stained oak door. A butterfly was engraved into the door, beautifully detailed. Without a word, Magnolia pushed open the door. She led Bryony inside, and it was rather dim in the room. She shut the door behind Bryony, and turned to face them.

“Magnolia, where are we?” Bryony raised an eyebrow, eyes adjusting to the darkness. 

Magnolia said nothing, striking a match and then holding it up to a piece of rope hanging from the ceiling. In an instant, the fire climbed up the rope, as if consuming it and hungering for more. It eventually reached a copper candle and lit the wick. The candle illuminated the room in a warm glow, shedding light over the various desks and shelves. Bryony took in a breath, admiring the room. The stars were painted in silver on the ceiling, showing various stars and constellations. The walls portrayed insects and wildlife, butterflies and bees on a cream colored background. In some of the display cases, there was a monarch butterfly in a frame. Next to it stood a display of a sparkling blue butterfly, bordered with black. Many displays of this kind filled the shelves to the left of the room. On the right was an excellent collection of books, old and new. Bryony could smell the intoxicating scent of paper and stories waiting to be read. 

“Magnolia, this is beautiful, but why’d you take me here?” Magnolia smiled again. 

“I saw you chasing that butterfly. I thought you might like my collection.” She recalled the moment in the garden, clear as day. Magnolia hesitated. “Do you.. like it?”

Bryony smiled brightly. “Of course! This is beautiful.” They walked over to one of the cases and admired the butterflies in the case, tail wagging. Magnolia stifled the urge to giggle as Bryony turned around.

Bryony smiled. “What’s so funny?”

“Nothing!” Magnolia stood up straight and looked them in the eye, a smile tugging at her lips. A second later they burst into laughter, doubling over with tears in their eyes. The laughter went on for several minutes, with lots of crying and giggling. Magnolia wiped a tear from her eye and let out a breath, cheeks sore from smiling. The two had grown much closer than they used to be, realizing how lonely they were in the empty halls of the castles they lived in. For the next few hours, Magnolia and Bryony stayed in the study until the moonlight flowed through the curtains. Magnolia read books from the shelves, breathing in the smell of another world from within the pages. Bryony admired the bugs on display, asking Magnolia a question about a certain bug that caught their eye every now and then. Not until it was past midnight did Magnolia and Bryony exit the study, walking through the hall. The purple twilight filtered through the stained windows, shining onto the floor. The two walked slowly to admire the sky outside, dazzling and sparkling like glitter. Their footsteps echoed through the hallway, and it felt as though they were the only two in the world, the galaxy. They basked in the comfortable silence, fingers intertwined. The pair returned to the bedroom. Instead of sleeping, Magnolia led Bryony out to the balcony, leaning against the railing. They admired the beauty of the night sky in silence. In this silence, so many important words were left unspoken.. and that is louder than anything. 

Recalling the night where Magnolia wrapped her arms around their neck, Bryony smiled, shifting their attention to the princess in question. The princess was gazing longingly at the sky, as if wishing to fly up to it and sleep among the stars. Bryony walked back to the bed, snuggling beneath the warm covers. Soon after, Magnolia joined them. This time, Magnolia was resting against Bryony’s chest, feeling it rise and fall as they breathed, drifting into a peaceful sleep.

Chapter Text

Bryony awoke to white feathers tickling their back, and saw Magnolia still sleeping soundly against their chest. Their wings were wrapped around Bryony, drawing them closer to the sleeping princess. They smiled, a warm feeling in their chest. It was so peaceful, that quiet moment of happiness and comfort. Bryony wished they could take this moment, frame it forever, keep it in their heart. They loved this- they loved Magnolia, it was true. Bryony would never admit it out loud, but this feeling.. It was more than friendship, wasn’t it? Since the day they came here, Bryony wasn’t very open to the idea of marrying a stranger, but Magnolia was no longer a stranger to them. Magnolia was more, they wanted her to be more than just a stranger, more than just a friend.

Lost in their thoughts, they didn’t notice when Magnolia opened her eyes and blinked sleepily. Coming to the realization of how close the two were both physically and emotionally, she flushed a deep red, looking away in embarrassment. She quickly tucked her wings back in and sat up, a hand over her mouth. 

“I’m so sorry! I didn’t mean to-” Magnolia quickly apologized, still embarrassed.

Bryony laughed. “No, no, it’s alright! I promise you-” They were interrupted by laughter bubbling up in their throat.  “I promise, it’s okay!” Bryony sat up as well, smiling. They found themselves doing that more and more often in Magnolia’s presence. Something about her.. it felt so right, but what could they do? It was clear Magnolia had no interest in them as a romantic partner, they were just friends..

And that hurt more than anything. 

Bryony and Magnolia were chatting happily over a cup of tea, talking about anything and everything. The conversation jumped from topic to topic. They were out in the castle garden, sitting at a table. The sun sang a song of light, beaming upon the two. Bryony gazed lovingly at Magnolia as she smiled and went on and on about flowers.

“Did you know gardenia flowers symbolize secret love? Interesting, isn’t it?” Her eyes shined with love for flowers.. and something else? Bryony shook the thought away. It’s just wishful thinking, they thought. 

“Yes, very interesting..” Bryony wore a small smile, swirling their cup of tea distractedly. Suddenly, there came a knock at the door of the garden.

“Enter,” Magnolia said, still holding her cup of tea. 

Angel entered. Magnolia’s maidservant. She came over to Magnolia and murmured something in her ear. Bryony flicked one of their ears, but figured this was something they shouldn’t be listening to. Magnolia’s smile dissolved off her face, and she dropped her teacup. It shattered onto the table, but she paid it no notice. Standing up abruptly, she cleared her throat. Magnolia’s eyes were now blank, waiting for any emotion to fill them. 

“I’m sorry, Bryony, but I have some important business to tend to. Please don’t wait for me to return. Explore the castle if you’d like.” Without another word, she turned and walked off. Bryony could see that she was trembling as she left. 

“Father!” Magnolia shouted as she slammed open the door to her father’s bedroom. Her lower lip trembled, sorrow filling her chest and threatening to spill tears. The princess took a shaky breath, walking over to where her father lay. She took his hand in her own. It felt cold, as if the warmth of life was drained from it. 

“Magnolia..” The king spoke in a pained way, coughing. “The study.. the stud.. the study, Magnolia..” 

“Father, please, please don’t go,” A tear rolled down Magnolia’s cheek. She had never felt so much pain, it was excruciating. Every breath she took was filled with sorrow and grief. She trembled, closing her eyes. 

“Father, please..” She said in a muted voice, as if speaking too loud would make Death come faster. 

“I love you, Magnolia. Never..” He coughed, shaking. “Never forget.”

“Father, no, no!” She yelled, but it was too late. Death had taken what it came for. There was no point in trying anymore. She held her father’s cold, lifeless hand to her forehead, weeping. 

“I love you..” 

Magnolia locked herself in the study, searching through every nook and cranny, trying to figure out what her father meant. What did it all mean? Does it mean anything anymore? She trembled as she opened another book, flipping through the old pages. Magnolia had not slept for days on end, trying to find something, anything to grasp on, anything to keep her from drifting away from the world. She had not spoken to Bryony recently, either. She did not trust anyone with the secrets she held. Sighing, she was tired of the monotonous searching, finding nothing, again and again. All the things she wanted to know were hiding from her in every shadow, under every leaf or behind a corner. She couldn’t reach it, not yet.. 

Rubbing her eyes, she opened another book.

Bryony laid against the side of the bed, watching the sun slowly set in the distance. Tears brimmed in the edges of their eyes. Never have they felt this alone, even when they were in the confines of Nymoria Castle. Burying their face in their hands, they took a deep breath.

Come on, it’s not like she ever liked you in the first place. It was all a facade, she was just pretending to be nice.. it’s just because of her father, isn’t it? She won’t even look at me anymore.. It was just a lie. Smoke and mirrors.

Bryony shook with grief, tears streaming down their face. Any hope of happiness now was just a distant dream. They’d never love someone like that again, never. I should’ve known better, I should have.. They let out a shaky sob. I’m not worth anything, am I? I was just another random stranger to her. A nobody. They reached down to where Magnolia had wounded the prince with her sword, and traced across the soft skin. A smile without any joy made their way across their lips. Bryony closed their eyes, recalling the way Magnolia’s fingers delicately handled their wounds, the way her fingers brushed against Bryony’s abdomen, her warm breath on their neck.. The smile faded. Bryony clenched their fist, shaking, cursing themselves for being so stupid and falling in love. 

Getting up from the side of the bed, Bryony left the bedroom. They went down to the garden, walking over to where the magnolia flowers grew. Picking one, they decided to preserve it. Just as they were about to leave the garden, they saw a small flash of pink hair. They shook their head. It’s just my imagination. Bryony left without looking back.

Magnolia watched Bryony in the garden, hidden in the shadows. She waited and waited until Bryony left with a flower, and then went to the large ivy arch. Plucking a small folded slip of paper from the branches. she went back to the study, unfolding it. Inside, it contained…

Magnolia’s eyes widened.

Bryony set the flower onto the nightstand next to the bed that they shared with Magnolia.. used to share. They crawled into bed, taking in a deep breath. Big mistake. They smelled a familiar peach scent, but it was missing something. Somebody. A tear flowed down Bryony’s cheek, and they didn’t get much sleep that night.

Magnolia brushed a quill back and forth over a piece of parchment, writing a letter. She was writing by candlelight, the moonlight illuminating the deep brown desk she sat upon. Rolling up the letter, she tied it with a ribbon and sealed the letter with a depiction of a magnolia flower. She smiled, her heart filled with both sorrow and joy. 

Should I really just leave them all alone? After we’ve gotten so close? She shook her head, cursing herself and her soft heart.  Curse you, curse your heart, Magnolia! It’s too late to fall in love now. You have only one priority, and that is..

Neither of the two got much sleep that night. 

Bryony awoke, their throat dry from crying. The sun broke through the clouds in fragments of light, but Bryony was in no mood to admire the sky. Looking over at the flower on the nightstand, they spotted the letter. Opening the seal delicately, they read over the letter..

To my dearest Bryony,

I’m sorry I couldn’t stay with you longer. To you I bid my sincerest goodbyes, and I don’t know if they shall last forever. There’s no need to wait for me to return. Find someone else, someone who can stay with you, someone who makes you happy. 

Goodbye,

Magnolia. 

Bryony clutched the letter, trembling with anger and regret. Find someone else? Find someone else? What kind of sick nonsense was that? I can’t just switch off my feelings and forget you, Magnolia! Bryony’s own thoughts shouted in their head. I’ll wait for you.. I’ll wait an eternity and half, but I’m not leaving! I’ll live my life in solitude if I have to, but I am not leaving!

The garden was more silent than it had ever been. The princess adjusted her glasses, watching Bryony read the letter. The balcony windows were still open, and she recalled the nights they spent on the balcony together, wings unfurled and wrapped around Bryony. She felt a lump in her throat. Turning around, she unfolded her wings, and took off towards the sun. 

Bryony roamed the halls, wandering the places that they and Magnolia had been to, recalling happy memories that filled them with regret. The prince- no, king, walked through the hall of stained glass, lost, a king without a queen. The windows glinted with the morning sun, spilling colored light onto the floor.. Bryony remembered how Magnolia had led them through these halls by the hand, warmth radiating from her touch. Bryony pondered if they’d ever feel that same warmth again, see those same golden eyes. The king cursed themself a thousand times over for hopelessly falling in love with someone they could never have. Lovers or not, I wish we could have just a little more time together.. If I have to wait, I will.. Anything to feel her embrace again, to see those familiar white wings. Where is she now? In the silence of the halls, Bryony regretted all the words they hadn't said, all the things they could say. The things they wish they could say. A stray tear slipped down Bryony’s cheek, and they rubbed it away, coming upon the door of the study. A nostalgic feeling fell upon them, and they pushed open the door. 

Sunlight lit the room, making the glass displays shine. Bryony did not care for the butterflies, or the smell of paper. Everything in the room seemed abandoned, full of grief. Walking over to the desk, they saw a small slip of paper with neat cursive on it, signed by.. King Gladiolus. Magnolia’s late father. It felt wrong to read the note, but it might have contained something, anything to help Bryony find Magnolia. On the note read:

Magnolia.

 If you are reading this note, that means I have come to my unfortunate demise. Go on without me, move on. You’re old enough to know the truth. The truth is, your m

The words were crossed out, and the ink seemed to be fresh. Bryony cursed under their breath. 

Do you remember our special place, Magnolia? Please, give the magic back to where it belongs. I believe in you. 

Arcane Gladiolus 

Bryony grabbed the note, folding it and putting it into their pocket. Time to find this special place. 

Magnolia felt the breeze run through her hair, and she smiled for the first time in a while.  A genuine, small, but genuine smile was on her face as she inhaled the scent of the pine forests below, the crisp air filling her nose. She remembered learning to fly like this, deep into the night. When she was 9 years old, she had a dream of flying up to touch the stars, but that was just a silly dream. Right?

The small cave entrance was covered up by vines of ivy and young saplings that weren’t fully grown yet. If you looked close enough, you could see a radiant purplish-blue glow from inside the cave. Magnolia landed safely on the ground in front of the cave, taking in the scenery before tucking in her wings and moving the vines aside to enter the cave. At first, the cave was just small enough for you to crouch inside of, but it gradually got larger and led to a ring of glowing blue mushrooms that formed a ring around a pond. The sun reflected off the pond water like the stars, earning it the name Starlight Cave. Magnolia admired the cave, all her memories of it flooding back to her. She walked over to the pond, kneeling by the edge. Taking out a book, she turned to page one. Time to wait for nighttime. 

The moon was slowly rising above the silhouettes of the trees. Tonight is a full moon, Magnolia thought. Lucky me. Opening a jar of small fragments of objects like little candies, she set some into the pond, watching them swirl in the water. Slowly, the cave fogged up, and images of fawns and hares leaping about started to form in the mist. Magnolia smiled, remembering how her father had shown her how to speak to the mist. 

“Moon, oh, Moon, let me hear your voice in the night,” She whispered, as if her voice might disturb the creatures of mist. “Show me the way.” 

Magnolia. We meet again, I see. The moon whispered back. 

“Yes, Moon. It has been a very long time since I came to speak with you.” She closed her eyes, holding her hands together. 

What do you seek, Magnolia? Where is Arcane?

“My father is..” Magnolia swallowed the lump in her throat. “He’s dead.”

The moon was silent for what felt like an eternity. Just then, it started to rain, as if the sky was weeping.

I am sorry. He lies among the stars with us in spirit. The voice of the Moon was one of sympathy and sadness. 

“Moon, I come to you with a wish.” 

Wish, my child. What do you seek? 

“Moon, I wish to find my mother. In return, I will return the magic to this cave, and the ones who lived in it,” She said finally. 

The Moon paused, as if thinking. Magnolia, we cannot control who lives and dies. We are the sky, not the underworld. 

“Please, Moon, help me,” Magnolia pleaded. 

There is only one who can overpower Death, Magnolia. That one is Love. Love is the one thing Death cannot take away. Find your love, and take the Heart with you. Entrust the Heart to the right person, Magnolia. We are counting on you. 

Magnolia thought it over for a second, opening her eyes. The mist around her had faded. Only one figure stood in front of her. It had no features except for one large eye on it’s head. Magnolia knew this was the Moon. 

“I will do as you wish, Moon. I will return the magic to this cave, in return for the Heart.” 

The figure opened their cloudy arms, and produced a small colorless heart shaped crystal. Magnolia took it delicately in her hands, knowing this was one of the most valuable things she would ever hold. 

“Thank you Moon. I will wait in this cave until there is a moonless night.” 

Good luck, my child. Do not fail us. With those last words, the figure dissolved into nothing and everything at the same time. Small particles of mist filled the air around Magnolia, and she tucked the jar of light back into her bag. Laying down by the pond, she closed her eyes and went to sleep.

Chapter Text

Bryony squinted through their looking glass, watching the stars in the sky. They flickered like lightbulbs, dim, bright, dim, bright. Suddenly, the sky shimmered. Rain. How? It was a cloudless night, and the rain focused on one area.

Their breath hitched, and the world seemed to stand still. Bryony knew exactly what- no, who , caused this.

It was time to visit Magnolia’s special place.

Bryony quickly stuffed a skin of water, a notebook, some dried fruit, and the note they found in Magnolia’s room into a satchel. After a moment of thinking, they grabbed a small dagger that had been a gift from their father. It was better to be safe than sorry, after all. Right?

Unfortunately, Bryony would not be correct.

As they rushed through the palace halls, they worried about Magnolia.

Is she okay? What is she doing? Is something happening to her?

I just hope she’s alive.

As these thoughts swarmed through their mind, Bryony fought back a sob. They still couldn’t understand why Magnolia left them. 

Does she even care?

They didn’t know. But they were determined to find out.

Bryony hurried through the forest, their mind moving about as fast as they were. They had to get to Magnolia, there was no telling what was happening to her. Tears streamed down their face as they silently cursed themself. Stopping for a quick breather, as they felt like they could have passed out, they looked up at the sky and saw the rain had stopped. 

There was no time for a break. Bryony had to get to Magnolia now .

Magnolia stepped around the dandelions, humming softly as she examined a bee on the palm of her hand. She pulled a journal out of her bag and knelt down by a tree stump. She let the bee crawl onto the stump as she pulled out a pencil and opened the journal..

That journal. She grabbed it in a rush when she ran away from the castle. 

Magnolia still remembers the day she got the journal. 

“This.. this is beautiful..” 

The spine of the book was beautifully detailed with gold letters, spelling out MAGNOLIA. The words were bordered by depictions of sparkling gold ivy vines and flowers, the top and bottom of the spine depicting a fox, Magnolia’s favourite animal. The cover had a magnolia flower on it, also painted with gold. The toffee brown cover was soft and smooth, perfect for holding. 

“Thank you,” Magnolia said, barely more than a whisper. Her breath was taken away at the beauty of the journal, and she admired it with a sparkle in her eyes.

“It’s a journal for things you love,” Bryony explained. 

Opening the journal, she wrote Bryony on the first page.

She ran her fingers over the cursive writing. Bryony. Tears threatened to spill from her eyes as she shut the journal, shoving the pencil back into the back along with it. The bee was long gone now, flown away to pollinate flowers. Everything was a reminiscence of Bryony, the dark ginger bark that lined the trees matched their thick hair. The earthy and fresh smell of the woods brought back memories of the garden, holding hands, sword fighting, the endless corridors of the castle.. 

A twig snapped behind her. Magnolia stood abruptly, whipping her head around. She half-expected it to be Bryony, or at least a familiar face, but there stood a woman. She had milky white hair that flowed over her shoulders, reaching down to her waist. They wore a beautiful white lace dress that dragged across the forest floor. Their head was adorned with flowers and plants, and her ears were pointed at the ends. 

Magnolia reached for the opal knife at her belt, but the figure only smiled. 

“Magnolia. It’s you, isn’t it? You’re all grown up now.” The figure spoke in a calming and soft tone that was also all-knowing and powerful. 

Magnolia gripped the knife at her belt, ready to unsheath it. “Who.. who are you?” She tried her best to keep her voice from trembling as she took a step back. 

The figure laughed. “I am Evelyn. I was a good friend of your parents.”

Magnolia loosened her grip on the knife. “My.. My parents? Did you know.. my mother?” She hesitated, but felt the need to ask. 

“Yes, your mother. I knew them both when they were so young.. I’m sorry about your father.” 

“How do you know about my father? What happened to my mother? Where is she, do you know where she is?”  Magnolia’s mind raced with questions, fighting back tears. 

Evelyn sighed, a smile of melancholy on their face. 

“I’ll answer that all in good time. Please, follow me. I have much to show you.”

Chapter Text

Bryony scanned their eyes over the entrance of the cave. This must be the one, they thought. Walking towards the entrance, they pulled the vines aside to find..

Nothing. Bryony sighed, exhausted and sad. They walked towards the pond in the middle of the cave, illuminated by a hole in the ceiling of the cave. In the water there floated a single white feather.

Magnolia's wings.. she was here. Why?

Bryony frowned, confused. What did Magnolia want with this place? Why was it raining on a cloudless night? All these questions, but not enough answers. What was she hiding?

Magnolia cautiously followed Evelyn as the elf stepped into the overgrowth. She pushed aside the reeds, careful not to step on any creatures skittering across the forest floor. Evelyn hummed the song her father taught her when she was a child. 

"How do you know that song?" Magnolia asked, growing increasingly apprehensive about Evelyn.

"I learned it from your father. He learned it from a strange man named Wisp," Evelyn smiled as she recalled the memory.

"Wisp? A strange name," Magnolia noted.

"Indeed. They say he's doing quite well these days."

"He's still alive?" Magnolia stepped over a snail.

"Yes. Being immortal truly is a horrible thing, isn't it? Watching as your friends grow old and die, wishing you could have done something about it, but you never can.."

Magnolia grimaced at the thought. She didn't speak after that. 

After walking for a while, the two came upon a large willow tree, it's branches concealing the world hidden behind them. Evelyn pushed aside the branches and gestured for Magnolia to enter. She walked up to the willow cautiously, walking between the parted branches. Magnolia was greeted by a path of mushrooms springing up beneath her feet. Evelyn walked next to her, approaching a waterfall. The water parted like a curtain as they walked through it, leading into a cave.

Magnolia admired the place in awe, looking at the sparkling scenery around her. Bright crystals sprouted from the roof of the cave, serving as lighting. 

Two iron garden chairs and a table furnished the middle of the cave, with a small tea set on the table. 

“Come, have a seat,” Evelyn invited. She sat across from Magnolia, pouring out a cup of tea for herself. “Tea?”

Magnolia winced, remembering the last time she had tea. “No thank you,” She politely declined. “I’d rather talk about my mother. What was she like?”

Evelyn took a sip of her tea and smiled. “You’re a curious one, aren’t you? Well, your mother was a very kind and benevolent woman. She loved the garden in the castle. When your mother wasn’t playing outside or sleeping, she was in that garden. Your mother even raised wild birds there.”

Magnolia smiled, but it quickly turned into an expression of thought. 

“My mother.. What was her name?”

Evelyn paused, setting down her teacup. “You don’t know her name?” 

Magnolia frowned. “I never met her. My father never spoke about her, not that I can remember..”

Evelyn pursed her lips. “I see. Where is your mother now?”

“I don’t know, my father never told me where she went.”

“I see. Your father didn’t tell you anything about your mother, hm?” Evelyn took another sip of tea.

Magnolia nodded. “So, what was my mother’s name?”

“You speak about her as if she is dead,” Evelyn noted. “But you don’t know so.”

Magnolia was growing tired of these cryptic messages. “Please, I just want to know her name.” 

Evelyn nodded. “Jasmine. Jasmine was her name. Isn’t that a beautiful name?”

Magnolia soaked in the information. Jasmine. I wonder if she still thinks about me. She took out her journal and wrote Jasmine next to the name Arcane . 

Evelyn peered at her journal. “What’s that?”

Magnolia smiled. “It’s a journal for things I want to remember. I have my mother’s name, my father’s name, and..” She paused.

“Bryony? Who’s Bryony?” Evelyn raised an eyebrow. 

“I..” Magnolia faltered. “Someone I used to know.” 

 Artemis rubbed small droplets of water off the lenses of his glasses. He sat in the tall grass by a small creek. A rabbit peeked it's head out of its burrow by the roots of a tree. Wisp stood next to him, holding a map. 

"We've already been down to Glass Lake to visit the fairies," Wisp said. "Where do you want to go next?" 

"I don't know," Artemis sighed. He put his hand to his forehead, squinting at the sun. “This heat is unbearable.” 

“I don’t think it’s that bad,” Wisp chuckled.

“Yeah, cause you were literally born in fire, idiot,” Artemis retorted lightheartedly. 

“I suppose it is a little warm,” Wisp admitted.

Is he serious? Artemis turned around to face Wisp, immediately regretting his decision. Wisp was staring down at him with a smug grin, waiting for a reaction.

“You’re fucking shirtless.” Artemis was not amused.

“Watch your profanity.” 

“Oh my god..” Artemis put his head in his hands as Wisp laughed. “Shut up.”

Wisp put his hands on his knees, bending down to mock Artemis’s height. “And what if I won’t?” 

Artemis placed a hand on the side of Wisp’s neck and drew him close, whispering in his ear.

“I’ll ruin you.” 

He pushed Wisp away and turned back to the water in the creek. 

Wisp smirked. “Sure, pretty boy.” Artemis felt his face go warm, but he blamed it on the sun and rolled his eyes. 

“I swear, one day I’m gonna kill you.”

“You love me. And we’re immortal.”

Artemis sighed. He didn’t like being reminded about the immortality thing. “I know..”

Wisp walked over, sitting down next to Artemis. “Sorry about that. I know you don’t like to remember,” He apologized. Artemis smiled, leaning his head on Wisp’s shoulder. 

“You’re still shirtless.” 

“Admit it, you like it,” Wisp grinned.

“I don’t.”

“You do.”

“I don’t.”

“You do.”

“I’m gonna punch you in the face.”

“You wouldn’t.”

“I would.”

Wisp took Artemis’s wrists in his hand, leaning forward until Artemis’s back was to the grass.

He leaned in close, warm breath against Artemis’s neck.

“Would you now?”

Artemis turned red and stammered. Wisp grinned and gave Artemis a kiss on the cheek and sat upright again, letting go of his wrists. 

“I hate you,” Artemis said.

“You love me.”

“So I do, what about it?”

Chapter Text

The empty halls were filled with the sound of footsteps as Magnolia walked to her bedroom. She was exhausted and felt stupid for wanting to run away from the castle. As much as she loved the forest, she missed the castle dearly. 

Would Father have wanted me to run away like this?

It was for the best, she told herself.

She tells herself. 

And yet she still doesn’t believe it. 

Every day, she feeds herself lies to justify her course of actions.

It wasn’t for the best. 

Magnolia set her bag down on the floor, crawling onto the bed and bringing her knees up to her chest. She struggled with her thoughts, trying to tell herself it was going to be okay.

It’s going to be okay. 

It’s going to be okay.

It’s going to be okay..

Is it?

Tears rolled down Magnolia’s cheeks as her regret and emotions overwhelmed her. 

It would, in fact, not be okay. 

Bryony inhaled the crisp scent of trees as they wandered through the forest, with nothing better to do than wander hopelessly.

Where am I to go?   They thought, pulling a mushroom from the ground and splitting it open. open. Dropping it, they sighed. The birds chirped and whistled in the trees, as if ridiculing Bryony. I can’t just return to the castle and give up.. I have to keep looking for her.

Move on, a voice in their mind whispered, taunting them. Let her go.

Bryony shook their head. There’s too much left undiscovered. They couldn’t give up now. 

We were supposed to be weaving a story of our own with a happy ending. Where is it? Bryony clenched their fist. 

They couldn’t lie to themself anymore. Bryony was in love with Magnolia, and they knew it. 

I’d never be able to tell her, anyways. She probably hates me.. she never loved me, we were just friends . 

Suddenly, they heard talking a few feet away from where they stood. Not unusual for this area, I suppose. It is a hiking trail, after all. Maybe I should find where the voices are coming from.

Following the voices, Bryony stepped through the tall grass and called out. 

“Hello?” They called. 

Two figures sitting together by the creek perked up, raising their heads and stopping conversation. The dark haired one turned his head, followed by the ginger. 

The shorter figure had black wavy hair and round golden glasses. Just like Magnolia’s. “Um.. hello? Who are you?” The boy responded. 

“I mean no harm. I’m Bryony, I was just looking for someone, but I decided to take a rest,” Bryony explained. The two had no idea they were speaking to the king of Gardenia, and decided to welcome them over. 

Wisp smiled as Bryony walked over to them and sat by the creek. “I’m Wisp, by the way. This is Artemis.” Artemis nudged Wisp with his shoulder. 

“You’re still shirtless, you know,” He muttered. Wisp laughed and grinned wider. Bryony watched the glimmering water as it passed by, dipping a finger in the stream.

After a moment of silence, Wisp spoke up. “Who were you looking for, anyway?” He asked.

“Hm?”

“Earlier, you said you were looking for someone. Who was it?”

Bryony went quiet for a moment. “Someone very close to me.. I care about them very much.”

“What’s their name?” Artemis questioned. 

“Magnolia. Magnolia Gladiolus.” The name felt like bittersweet honey on their tongue. Both Wisp and Artemis paused. 

“Gladiolus.. Oh! We’re looking for her as well, I suppose.” Artemis explained. 

“What do you mean?”

“We were good friends of her father, and we think we should catch up,” Wisp added.

Bryony paused, contemplating if they were to be the one to reveal the news. The three went silent as Bryony drew in a breath.

“About that.. he’s dead.”

Both Artemis and Wisp stopped in shock. Sad silence followed, letting the news sink in. The chirp of the birds in the trees now seemed louder than ever, and the rushing water sounded like a hailstorm in the quietness. 

Artemis was the first to speak. “He’s.. dead. Dead.” His voice was heavy with sorrow. 

“Hey,” Wisp began. “At least we have each other, right?” He said in an attempt to comfort Artemis. 

“You always say that.” Artemis’s words cut like a knife. Bryony grimaced, wondering if sharing the news might have been a mistake. 

Wisp went quiet. He turned away from Bryony and Artemis, trembling ever so slightly. 

“Why are you looking for his daughter, then?” Artemis asked Bryony. 

“Ever since her father died, she’s been acting strange. She ran away from the castle. All I have left of her is a white feather, a cryptic note from her father, and distant memories.”

“The castle? How do you know Magnolia? Why were you at the castle?”

Bryony paused. “Well.. our parents had a marriage arrangement and..”

Artemis nodded. “Oh, I see.” The air was still once again as the two listened to the woodland ambience. A pale yellow butterfly fluttered past, landing on a lily growing by the creek. Moments where Bryony could sit still and enjoy their peace of mind were rare, especially with the unfortunate circumstances of the last few days. Ever since Magnolia left, Bryony had been neglecting taking care of themself. Conversations over a cup of tea and sandwiches became unappetizing and they couldn’t even drink anything with flavor without thinking of that fateful moment. The memories wouldn’t stop replaying in their head, day and night. The sound of porcelain shattering onto a table was unforgettable, the cold tone and sorrowful eyes of Magnolia. It was too much. 

Maybe it’s time to move on. Bryony shook their head. I don’t want to think about this now. I should just enjoy nature for a while. Besides, I could just talk to Wisp or Artemis. Speaking of Wisp.. is he okay?

Wisp had not spoken to Artemis or Bryony in a while. Ever since Artemis’s comment, he had gone oddly silent and stared coldly at the ground. 

“Hey.. Wisp. Are you okay?” Bryony said worriedly. Wisp did not reply for several moments, pondering the question. 

“I’m.. fine.” He did not look up from the water, continuing to stare, looking for something that wasn’t there. Artemis glanced over at Wisp, but made no attempt to speak to him. 

“Well, I really must be going,” Bryony said, trying to relieve the tension. 

Artemis smiled and waved. “Until we meet again,” He bid goodbye. 

“Until we meet again.”

Angel hesitated outside of the door, listening for any sound. Magnolia was once again locked up inside of her room, refusing to eat or get out of bed. Love sickness, it was a terrible thing. The maidservant had two books and a cup of hot chocolate in an attempt to cheer up the girl. She knocked. Once, then twice. There was no answer. Angel hoped Magnolia wouldn’t think it horribly impolite as she slowly creaked open the door.

“Magnolia?” Angel spoke softly. Magnolia was curled up and buried under a pile of thick sheets. Her hair was mussed and unkempt. Angel stepped over to the side of the bed, setting down some books and the cup of hot chocolate. “I brought you some things. You seem unwell.. I hope I didn’t interrupt you, I’ll leave if you wish-” She was cut off as Magnolia raised a hand to stop her. 

“Don’t apologize,” She said. Sitting at the edge of her bed, it was clear Magnolia had not slept for several days. Her glasses were crooked on her face and there were circles under her eyes. “Thank you for coming in, actually. I appreciate your concern.” Her voice was tired and raspy. 

Angel quickly nodded and bowed. “Really, it’s nothing, again, I’m sorry for disturbing you, I hope you’re not ups-” Magnolia sighed loudly and grabbed Angel by the collar of her shirt, pulling her close. Angel’s lips met Magnolia’s, and the maidservant's eyes fluttered open in surprise. The kiss lasted only a few sweet seconds, eventually ending in Angel pulling away to breathe. 

“Oh- I-” Angel stammered. 

Magnolia just smirked. “See? I’m not mad. You can go now.” Angel quickly nodded and left the room, closing the door behind her. She resumed her daily tasks, but not without thinking of Magnolia. That kiss.. it was only a couple of seconds, but it felt like years.

Love sickness, it was a terrible thing.

AN EXCERPT FROM THE JOURNAL OF BRYONY NYMORIA

2/12/XXXX

I have met a girl named Magnolia. I’d rather be in my castle right now. 

She is not very kind or welcoming of me. She journals, like me. I wonder what she writes about. There is a garden in the castle. 

Gardenia Kingdom. What an interesting name. Mine is strange, too. Nymoria. 

I have practiced my smile in the mirror. Maybe I will get to use it soon.

This castle is very interesting. It is like a labyrinth. 

The halls are endless. There is a giant hallway with windows of stained glass. The light is very pretty in the mornings. 

Everyone is calling me a prince. Maybe, when I am brave enough, I can tell them.

Have faith in yourself, Bryony. 

2/13/XXXX 

She took me by the hand today. She does not enjoy my jokes, but they are still funny to me.

I got to smile today.

2/14/XXXX 

She took me to the garden. Magnolia held my hand again.

Magnolia? A very interesting name. I am beginning to think this won’t be so bad. She is very easy to fluster. I think it’s [ Crossed out ]

I am smiling more often.

Maybe this was a good idea, after all. 

Birds chirped and sang as the morning sun began to rise over the hills. Magnolia was rinsing her face, rubbing the sleep from her eyes. She dried her face with a washcloth and yawned, covering her mouth with a hand. Her pink hair was messy and ruffled, but she didn’t quite mind. The magnolia flower in her hair was still in the same place as it always was. Putting her glasses on, she put on her slippers and left the bathroom. It just so happened to be that Angel was also walking through the hall, carrying a basket of towels to put in the washroom. Magnolia stepped away from the doorframe so that Angel was able to enter. 

“Magnolia! I wasn’t expecting to see you here,” Angel said, opening the cabinet under the sink.

“Yes, I wasn’t either.” She paused before continuing. “What I did yesterday.. I do apologise.”

Angel waved her hands dismissively. “Oh, no, it’s okay, I didn’t mind.” She stopped, cheeks turning bright red as she realized what she just said. “It’s okay because I know you didn’t mean it, of course!” 

Magnolia smiled. Cute. She thought this behavior absolutely adorable , but she did not say so. 

“I see. I’ll see you around, Angel.” 

“Goodbye, Magnolia!”

Magnolia continued the rest of her day as usual, in the garden or on the balcony..

The balcony.

She doesn’t want to remember what happened on the balcony. 

They could have had so much more, if only they had time..

They never had time.

Were our circumstances different.. I would strive to be everything to you. You would be everything to me. We could have been so much more.

She doesn’t want to think about it. She just wants to move on. Why was it so difficult? They were never close. They never will be anything more than strangers. Strangers, kingdoms apart, stranded in eternal loneliness.

She will always remember. 

She just wishes she couldn’t.

She can only drown it out for so long. 

Move on.

Weeks passed, the halls full of song once again. Magnolia was once again in the walls of the castle she had known all her life. Angel and Magnolia continued to bond, and Magnolia could almost forget everything.

Her father, Bryony, even the soft words that the Moon had spoken to her. Her mother and Evelyn no longer occupied her thoughts every waking hour. It was just another mystery lost to the past. She never had a problem with living in solitude, so why now? 

You know something sweeter than loneliness.

Yet no matter how hard she tries, she cannot suppress the memories. 

It feels as though the world has turned against her, and there is nothing she can do.

Do I deserve this? She asks herself. Everyday..

Magnolia gripped the banister of the balcony tighter. Oh, how fast the night could change into a blurred mess. The darker the night, the brighter the stars. 

There was nothing to be done. There were so many chapters Magnolia and Bryony never got to share.

She’s glad she had the ones they did. 

Bryony had been feeling a sense of longing and regret for the castle of Gardenia. They wanted nothing more than to relive the memories in those endless walls, to dance through the halls in the colored light that shined through the stained glass windows, to smile and laugh in the garden, just as they once had. 

They still remember that night. 

“Quit it, I’ll fall!” Magnolia laughed as Bryony held one of her hands in their own, the other supporting Magnolia’s back as the two leaned close to the floor. Pulling Magnolia up again, Bryony spun her around and pulled her close. 

Magnolia’s back was to Bryony’s chest, she laughed breathlessly, attempting to hide a smile behind her fingers. 

“I could look at you like this forever,” Bryony murmured sweetly. 

They didn’t have enough time. 

“What’s stopping you?”

They’ll never have enough time. 

“Nothing.”

Oh, Magnolia. If only you knew.

Bryony spun Magnolia again, so that Bryony could look her in the eyes.

Those eyes, shining like gold, sweeter than honey, so innocent.

Those rosy lips, soft and pink like the petals of a rose.

What’s a rose without thorns?

Bryony leaned in closer, closer.. 

Nothing.

They kissed. 

And it was nothing more than a kiss. 

One kiss. 

Two lovers.

Not enough time. 

Chapter Text

Bryony mounted their horse, riding in the direction of the high flag that flew over the Castle of Gardenia. It was a large white cloth with a golden Gardenia flower embroidered on it in golden thread, accompanied by 3 flower petals falling from the flower.

Bryony would not let their grief get the best of them. They could not just sit there and watch the world move on. They were going to fix this, even if it was the last thing they did.

Oh, Bryony.

They rode on, day after day until they finally reached the giant iron gates of the castle, guarded by several troops. Bryony greeted the guards with a smile. They had become familiar with some of the guards during the short time they stayed at the castle.

“Hey, stop right there.” A guard raised his spear. “What’s your business here?”
Another guard nudged him with his elbow. “Don’t you remember? That’s the prince.”

“Which one?”

“From the kingdom of Nymoria. Allow them in.”

“Are you sure?”

“Do they look like they’re going to kill the princess, idiot?”

The guards continued to bicker with one another while another guard opened the gates for Bryony. They gave an appreciative nod, and rode on.

No, Bryony would not be killing the princess.

Oh, Bryony.

Riding down the gravel and dirt path, Bryony stopped and dismounted their horse, deciding to walk for the rest of the way. They took in all the familiar smells of the pines that bordered the castle and the lavender bushes that filled the air with a sweet aroma. There was also an earthy and mossy smell, faint but pleasant.. Heather.

Oh, Bryony.

Once again, Bryony came upon guards. This time, they were positioned in front of the grand castle doors, standing still like statues. Bryony raised their hands, showing that they were not a threat.

“Shall we alert Queen Magnolia that she has a visitor?” One guard said to the other. The other guard nodded, and went inside the castle. Bryony waited patiently, admiring the scenery and the pale, faded tones of the sky. A few minutes later, the guard emerged once again, but there seemed to be someone following him.

She stepped out, eyes shining defiantly against the sorrows of the world.

“Magnolia.”

“Bryony?”

The two stood there motionless, silent. Magnolia’s confused expression changed into a bittersweet smile, both sad and relieved to see Bryony once again.

“Magnolia. It’s been so long since I’ve last seen you. You’re just as beautiful as ever,” Bryony said, smiling.

“You flatter me, Bryony. Do come inside.” Magnolia waved a hand and walked inside. Bryony followed, and Magnolia led them to a room with a bay window, the sun just beginning to set in the hills. There was a small coffee table with teacups and coasters on them, accompanied by a sugar bowl and a teapot.

“Have a seat. We’ve much to talk about. How have things been, Bryony?” Magnolia sat down, picking up a teacup. Bryony sat down next to her, fidgeting with their hands nervously. It felt awkward to sit so casually next to the person who had presented them with such passion and love, only to rip it away.

This is your chance to make things right, Bry. Don’t screw it up. They thought.

“Nervous? I suppose our memories with tea aren’t the best. I can fetch a servant to make you a different drink, if that’s what you prefer,” Magnolia offered.

“No, no, it’s not the tea. In fact, thank you for the tea. I’m just thinking about a lot right now.”

“Well, do share. I’m listening.”

"I- it's hard for me to say."

Magnolia smiled. "My dear Bryony, you can tell me anything."

Bryony's heart skipped a beat, they felt a fluttering sensation in their stomach. They didn't know how to say it.

"I- I'm a woman. I have always felt this, but I- I've never known how to say it." Bryony swallowed, her eyes teared up slightly, but she forced the tears away.

“I see.. I understand, Bryony.”

And for the first time, Bryony felt free. Free from the prison that the world had enforced on her, the limits she was confined to by the expectations of others. But now, it felt as though the world was beneath her now, she was everything she wanted to be and she could finally feel like herself.

Oh, Bryony.

“I met new people, too. Artemis and Wisp. They knew your father,” Bryony said. Magnolia set down her cup of tea.

“Oh? Tell me about them, if you will.”

“They claimed to be immortal. Is such a thing possible?” Bryony wondered. Magnolia thought of Evelyn and what she said.

Being immortal truly is a horrible thing, isn't it? Watching as your friends grow old and die, wishing you could have done something about it, but you never can. Evelyn had said to her.

“I believe it,” Magnolia said.

“One had bright orange hair, ruffled and messy. He had freckles and was.. shirtless.”

Magnolia laughed at that.

“He was accompanied by a boy named Artemis, with black fluffy hair. He had glasses with round lenses, and vivid purple eyes,” Bryony explained.

Magnolia nodded. “I see. I have much to talk to you about as well.”

“That is?”

Rosy blush dusted Magnolia’s face. Her gaze shifted to the hills outside, and she smiled for a moment, a joyous, innocent smile.

“I am in love, Bryony.”

Bryony’s smile faltered. Her heart dropped. It cannot be true. She wanted so badly to unhear the words that had just been spoken, that jabbed at her heart like a knife. She couldn’t believe it.

Oh, Bryony.

Nevertheless, she continued to smile, hiding the tears that stung her eyes. “With who?”

“Angel. You know her. I have known her for many years. She is beautiful, vivacious and so full of life. Just the sight of her brings me great joy. Oh, her smile shines bright enough to light up the world. She is my world to me, Bryony. I cannot imagine living a life without her.”

Oh, Magnolia. If only you knew what Bryony thought about you.

“Well, Magnolia, I’m glad you are happy. You deserve to be happy.”

“Thank you.”

“Of course. You are the best person I’ve ever had the pleasure of meeting.”

“Really? I feel sorry for you,” Magnolia laughed. Bryony laughed along, heart panging at the sweet sound of Magnolia’s laughter. She wanted to hear it a hundred times, a thousand, forever.

They didn’t have enough time.

“Oh, Bryony. Life has intoxicated me, it has filled me with a new burning passion, a desire to seek adventure.” She leaned against the window, hand against the glass.

“I see.”

She once again fixated her attention on Bryony.

“What’s in that leather backpack of your’s?”

“Ah- this. Mostly journals, things I like to carry with me, perhaps some food and water.”

“May I see?”

“I don’t see why not,” Bryony was confused, but didn’t see anything wrong with letting Magnolia see the contents of her bag. It was only natural to be curious, right?

Inside the bag was a journal, pencils, and other random belongings such as dried fruit and some geodes. However, the item Magnolia found the most interesting was a small dagger. She pulled it out of the bag, rotating it in her hands and examining it.

“What’s this?” She asked.

“Oh- that's the dagger my father gifted me. I brought it with me when I went out to.. look for you. I didn’t bring it here for anything bad, I promise,” Bryony frantically explained. “I forgot I even had it in there.” Magnolia just laughed, holding the dagger in the sunlight and watching it sparkle.

“It’s okay, my dear. I know you wouldn’t hurt me.” Magnolia leaned in closer, an unreadable look in her eyes.

“Uhm- Th.. Thank you?” Bryony wasn’t sure how to handle this situation, especially with Magnolia being so close to her.

“I wonder.. if the same could be said.. about me?” She pressed the dagger near Bryony’s throat. She instantly panicked, pressing against the corner of the bay window. She was shaking now.

“Checkmate!” She laughed, eyes glinting with victory. She talked like it was just a game. “I've got you right where I want you to be.” It was all a game to her.

Bryony did not have the courage to speak.

It’ll always be a game to her.

And now, Magnolia’s knife pressed against Bryony's neck, was going to win.

She had always read of great love stories where the beautiful princess was saved by the handsome Prince Charming.

Dagger in hand, there was nobody to save Prince Charming now.

“Don’t worry, my dear. I won’t make it too quick.” Magnolia’s comforting yet malicious tone made Bryony’s stomach turn. She closed the gap between them, dragging a line down the fabric of Bryony’s shirt, exposing their bare chest.

“Magnolia.. W-what are you doing..?” Bryony tried to back up more against the window, but it was impossible. “Stop.”

Magnolia smiled, amused. “I’m the one with the dagger here, my dear, and you’re trying to give me commands? I’d advise against it.”

“Please..” She murmured, unsure of what she was asking for anymore.

“Hush.”

The knife glided down Bryony’s chest, light but stinging. Beautiful scarlet drops beaded against the cuts, flowing down her chest and dripping from the dagger. Bryony found it hard to breathe, fearing for what was to come.

Oh, Bryony.

"It truly is a shame, my dear. I thought you were finally out of the way.. I suppose I was wrong. No worries, however- I can take care of that. Perhaps, if our circumstances were different, I would strive to be everything to you. You would be everything to me. Oh, how sour life can be," Magnolia spoke, tracing the knife down Bryony's chest. She drove the knife slightly deeper, and Bryony cried out in pain.

"Why.. why are you doing this?" Bryony began to weep.

"Oh, Bryony. You're truly that clueless? Everything has an end."

"Even love?"

She dug the knife into Bryony's abdomen.

"Especially love."

Bryony gasped. She could feel blood trickling down her stomach and onto the floor. She put a hand to the wound, feeling the blood in shock.

"Why?" Her voice broke. "I loved you."

"You loved the person you believed me to be. And yet I'm still the best person you've ever met?" Magnolia scoffed. "I truly should feel sorry for you."

Bryony gritted her teeth in pain as Magnolia slowly pulled the knife out of the wound. She stabbed again. Bryony cried out.

"Oh, what convenient timing you had, showing up here all of a sudden. Truly, if you just returned to your little castle and ran far, far away from here- you could have lived. Ah, what a tragedy!” She cried out, followed by short, humourless laughter. “All the best love stories have tragedies, am I right? It’s what gives life it’s color, it’s excitement, the thrill of being in love. Oh, Bryony.”

Bryony could only feel the seconds tick by, waiting for Death to claim her.

“Unfortunately, your time is over. Goodnight.”

She waited and waited until Bryony’s skin grew cold and her body went limp.

“Very well then,” She said, to no one in particular. Magnolia got up, dusting off her slacks and dropping another sugar cube into her tea. She called for a servant to come and help her, and was met at the door by Angel. Of course it was Angel, she was in charge of all services regarding Magnolia.

Angel walked in, bowing to Magnolia.

“No need for formalities, Angel,” Magnolia waved her hands dismissively. Help me and clean up the tea set, will you? Leave my cup, however- I will finish it later. I have some matters to attend to, and then I will ride down to the theatre for the evening. Romeo and Juliet shall be showing tonight, I believe.”

Angel nodded, and went to clean up the tea set, pausing when she saw Bryony’s limp body by the window. Her breath hitched and her throat went dry.

“M.. Magnolia..?”

Magnolia turned, a smile playing across her lips. She smiled a charming, innocent smile, and for a second, Angel couldn’t believe she was staring at a murderer. Magnolia walked closer as Angel backed up. Magnolia eventually reached Angel, holding her chin in her hand.

“Not a word about this to anyone, my dear. You just might regret it.” Her eyes sparkled with amusement, as if she found Angel’s shock and fear entertaining. It was like watching a play, she thought, but so much more exciting, to see real fear, real terror, real blood. Everything was just a game to her, it always would be.

God, Magnolia, what have you done?

Angel nodded, shaking as she cleaned up the fine porcelain set of china. She tucked it away into a cabinet and began to wipe up some of the blood, when Magnolia stopped her.

“Don’t worry about that,” She said. “I’ll need that for later.”

Angel just shuddered and nodded. “I’ll go and call a chariot for you.”

“No need, my dear- I am going on foot. I think I would be up for a stroll in the golden hours of the dawn. It would be a pleasant experience, yes; it is exactly what I need. Would you care to bring me my bag from inside my bedroom? It is in the corner, made of leather. You will recognize it when you see it.”

Angel nodded and quickly hurried away, footsteps clicking down the hall and retreating into Magnolia’s bedroom. A minute later, she returned carrying a leather bag.

“Thank you,” Magnolia said as she opened the backpack and pulled out the Heart that the Moon had given to her. She nestled it in Bryony’s wounds, and the heart slowly faded into a deep crimson. She removed it, setting it back in her backpack and pulling out a knife.

“Just one more thing..”

She traced a heart on Bryony’s chest with the knife, and then cut it open. Angel watched in horror as Magnolia tore out the heart of Bryony, and put it into a jar.

“Well, Angel, do help me clean this up, will you? I’ve many things to do right now. And while you’re at it, have Bryony Nymoria buried in the garden. Call Reginald to have a headstone carved for Bryony. You’d best not tell him why, I say- I know you’re smarter than that.”

Angel nodded, and left the room. She felt sick.

Magnolia then got dressed casually, washing the crimson off her hands and watching it flow down into the sink. She laughed at her reflection- it was strange, how her face had changed from yesterday. Yesterday, her honey-like eyes had been pure, untouched by the horrors of the real world. Now, they were cloudy like a sky before a storm, filled with evil and injustice. However, Magnolia paid no attention to her features. She paid more attention to the Magnolia flower fastened in her hair, and how the petals had been dusted with brown at the edges, faint but slightly visible. Had it been like that before? How had she just noticed? Also- the feathers on her wings. Were they always that grey? It troubled her, but she paid no mind. Nothing could spoil this pleasant afternoon for her. Drying off her hands, she exited the castle.

She walked down the dirt path, admiring the flowers that lined the side and the magnificent hedges that depicted varying animals, such as serpents and lions. She did not care much for the grandiose decorations, but rather the flowers and small insects that hopped about, unbothered by the burdens of life or the pains of old age. They would never have to look in a mirror and regret their decisions, or have to feel the fear of growing old. Animals were such simple beings- they did not need to feel fiery passion to feel complete in their life, they did not need the intoxicating rush of tearing someone’s heart out to feel alive.

Magnolia could not draw the curtains on her life like the stage- she could not stop and look away, she could not walk out of the theatre of reality. But you, dear reader, you can. Stop reading, turn back a couple chapters, to where Magnolia and Bryony were still the sweet cliche that everyone wanted them to be. This story is not going to be a happy one. Not every romance ends in two, and not everyone will live. This is your chance to draw the curtains, relish the applause, enjoy closure in not knowing what happens next.

Please, while you still can.

Please.

Magnolia walked along the sidewalk, heading down to the theatre, where the show was to begin in 15 minutes. She watched crickets hop along the pavement and birds landing on a wire. She could finally appreciate the scenery without having to watch out for a certain ginger-haired person. I suppose you learn to appreciate life once you take it away from someone. Life was suddenly filled with new joys and passions to her, she found a great deal of amusement in watching people try to chase the pleasures of life or give up on themselves. It is all a game to her, nothing more. She knows it.

She entered the theatre and took her seat. Tonight, she could watch fake sorrows and scripted words. However, she still had a burning desire to make others feel sorrow, pain, heartbreak. It fueled her.

The voice of the actor on stage rang out;

Don't waste your love on somebody who doesn't value it.

She could almost laugh. She did not feel Romeo’s love, nor Juliet's sorrow- no, she was curious. Curious about the way the human mind felt such strong emotions, the way it felt compelled to do everything they could for another. How absurd! After the play was over, she applauded, but only as a polite gesture. The actors on stage were too dramatic, they made everything feel artificial. After the show, she walked down the streets of the square looking through the windows of shops and libraries. It had been a long time since she had left the castle, worrying about ever meeting Bryony and looking her in the eye.

God, Magnolia, what have you done?

Magnolia entered one of the bookstores on the street, greeted by a breeze of cool air from inside. There were long shelves of dark cherry wood, lined with different kinds of books. She wandered over to the classic literature section. She browsed the various selections of books. She came upon Alice in Wonderland, but it had a weathered, torn paper binding. She pulled it out of the shelf and examined it. I surely will have to get a new binding for this. It is hideous. While scrutinizing the book, she caught a glance at a person with fluffy black hair and glasses with circular lenses. Could it be?

She strolled up to him and tapped the ‘young’ man on the shoulder.

“Pardon me, good sir, but you seem familiar,” She began. “I do believe I know you, or at least, an acquaintance of yours.”

The man raised an eyebrow. “And that would be?”

“Bryony, Bryony Nymoria. Perhaps you have not heard of her? Oh, but I am sure you have heard of my father. Arcane Gladiolus, he was a great man.”

His eyes lit up with surprise. “Could it be? You.. the royal heir?”

A smile played across her lips. “Yes, I am afraid so,” She laughed.

He adjusted his glasses. “Yes, I knew your father. We were good friends."

"I know. Bryony told me about you."

Artemis raised his eyebrows in surprise. "So they did?”

Magnolia nodded. “It’s quite unfortunate she’s dead, isn’t it? Death loves those who love. What a shame.”

Artemis was silent. How? It hadn’t been that long since he met Bryony, was it? Curse this immortality, curse it all! He hated being immortal. If only he could take it all back. First Arcane, now Bryony. Life truly was cruel.

“How.. how did they die?” Artemis asked, trembling.

“Oh, Artemis..” She began to laugh. There was something maniacal in her eyes, something insane. What.. What the hell? “Artemis, Artemis.”

“Wh.. What? Why are you laughing?” He stepped back.

“I killed her.” The words fell from her lips like bitter poison. She had no regrets, not even any remorse. Artemis was frozen with fear as Magnolia loomed over him, laughing. “You won’t tell, right? of course you wouldn’t. Why would you? You’ve no reason.”

“O-Of course I have reason! You’re a murderer, a cruel murderer!” Artemis cried out. Magnolia struck him across the face.

“Silence! Tell someone, and I’ll make sure you never speak again. Just because you’re immortal doesn’t mean you’re safe from me. I know your weakness, Artemis, and you know you’d do everything to keep him safe. You will leave this bookstore and you will not tell a soul. Understood?”

Artemis nodded, heart beating wildly. He had to get out of here. The man turned on his heel and ran out of the bookstore. Magnolia watched him run with a smile. Oh, how it filled her with joy to see others fearing for their lives!

God, Magnolia, what have you done?