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Chapter Text

It was a beautiful day.

The summer was nearing it's hight, and the fairy kingdom seared under the scorching sun. Trees and bushes practically ached with the heavy load of fruit and one could even smell the heat in the air.

„Phew, it's hotter than hell today.“ Marianne whiped her brow as she fluttered up to the throne room. After the whole lovepotion-debacle and their public announcement of the relationship, she was spending as much time as she could with Bog in the Dark Forest. It was a welcome cool down, shaded by the thick vegetation, the masses of moss holding back what little water fell during a summer storm.

Her relationship had blossomed into something very serious the past few months, more serious than any of them could have imagined. Bog had turned out to be exactly what she needed. He was her anchor, holding her down when she was about to explode as well as cheering her on when needed. Not to mention that he was one of the few men in both kingdoms able to kick her butt during a sparring session.

The air in the old stone hallway was pleasantly cool on her heated face as she made way to the heavy wooden door, a familiar sight greeted her: Dawn and Sunny waited for her there, giggling and occasionally sneaking a few smootches.

„Careful, don't let dad caught you.“

„Hi Marianne.“ Sunny waved at her.

„Marianne!“ Dawn smiled at her sister and pulled her into a quick hug. „Do you know what is going on? I mean, the last time he summoned both of us at the same time we were like this small-“ she hovered her hand at the high of her hip „-and had thrown a firecracker into the buffet at the spring dance.“ She gave her sister a stern look. „Did you throw a firecracker in a buffet recently?“

Marianne let out a hearty laugh. „Not that i know of. Come on, let's see what all the fuss is about.“

The throne room looked just like always, with her father situated on his lavish throne, guards at his side. But what caught Marianne's attention were the closed curtains, the thick crimson fabric drowning out the setting sun. Dimly glowing crystals illuminated the scene with an eerie glow, and it was as if she could feel many eyes on her back as she and Dawn approached their father. Immediatly, Marianne's good mood vanished. Something here was very odd.

„Ah, there are my girls! Come over, i have exciting news!“

„Ookaayy, but why are the lights all out?“ Dawn asked and let her gaze wander around the room.

Dagda laughed and clapped his hands. „Because our guests are not very fond of bright light, that's why.“ He pointed his finger towards the ceeling, and Dawn let out a little shriek. She hid behind her sister, and after a few moments staring into the darkness, Marianne saw them: dozens of glowing yellow eyes, looking down from the roof dome.

„This-“ Dagda extended one hand a figure landed next to them. „-is Bela. He is the majordomo of the Royal Family of the Southern Islands.“

As he stepped closer, they got a good look at Bela: he had grey skin, leathery wings fused to his boney long fingers, and a crest of shaggy dark hair adorned his neck. A cunning smile grazed his lips and he bared his teeth, showing off black gums.

„You are... a bat?“ Marianne wondered.

„Beautiful as she is intelligent. It is a pleasure to meet you, your highness.“ He dipped into a low bow, his large ears twitching.

„Well, it is a delight to meet you, but i wonder about the... circumstances of your visit. We have never met a visitor from the Southern Isles.“

„Now my dear princess, there were times when our kingdoms had strong bonds with each other, until the tragic and untimely death of your dear departed mother. And with the most gracious offer of your wise king, we want to renew those bonds.“

He shot Dawn a unsettling grin, making her want to bathe in disinfectant. Marianne smelled the bait, something told her that the whole thing was going to go down horribly.

„Dad? What is going on? What kind of offer?“

„Well-“ an aura of self-satisfaction floated around the old king as he leaned back in his throne and rested his arms on the armrest. „-i have decided that we will make a contract with the Southern Isles. By marriage.“

„What?!“ Anger, hurt and the feeling of betrayal welled up in Marianne's chest. „You know i can't comply to that! I cannot- I will not-“ She ran a hand through her hair, tugging at the roots as she started to wander up and down infront of her father. But Dagda simply smiled, waving his hand and tried to get his daughter's attention. Bela just grinned his evil grin as he observed the rambling princess.

„She is just like your late queen, your majesty. I remember she had the same strong personality.“

„Yes. It's a curse sometimes. MARIANNE!“

Silence. „Finally. I never said you would marry. I want you to remain here and get crowned as queen when the time comes. No, no, no. Pursue your current realtionship with Bog. It is not what i intended for you, but you seem to be happy. Also, should you two marry at one point in the future, it can only be of advantage for our kingdom.“

„But who else-“ she didn't get to finish her sentence. Bela made a step towards Dawn, extending a winged hand. „The contract between our kingdoms will be our greatest joy. We are pleased to be your new family, your highness.“

„New family? What- what does he mean?“ Dawn looked at her father with pleading eyes.

„He means that you will join the Royal Family of the Southern Isles and make a binding alliance between our kingdoms.“ The look in Dagda's eyes was kind of bittersweet as they settled on his little girl.

„You will marry the heir to their throne.“

Many things happened at once: Marianne felt as if her brain had short circuited. Dawn let out a loud shriek and started to cry immediatly, fleeing the throne room as heavy sobs wracked her. Dagda got up to follow her, but decided against it. And Bela watched the whole scenario with unabashed glee in his glowing eyes.

„You can't be serious! Dawn already loves Sunny! And you want to send her away to marry some stranger she doesn't even know, let alone love?!“ Chest heaving up and down in anger, Marianne stared at her father.

„Calm down, Marianne. I can ensure you, the prince and Dawn will be a perfect match. Besides, we are the leaders of our people. We all have to take responsibility and make sacrifices for the greater good.“

„Indeed“ Bela sneered. „Politics are no romantic parquet wich allows love to flower. It is harsh and unforgiving. Princess Dawn is very lucky her king chose such a good husband for her.“ He took a glance in Marianne's face, her features blemished by white hot fury. „But i see that our presence here is no longer appreciated. I will inform the Queen Regent about the impending wedding. Our court will arrive the next full moon to pick up the new bride.“ The servants pulled back the curtains, revealing the already darkening meadow. Bela snapped his boney thumb and index finger, and a barrage of bats fell from the ceiling and flew out of the windows.

„King Dagda, Princess Marianne. It has been a pleasure to meet you.“ and with that, he flung himself out the nearest window and dissappeared into the night.

Chapter Text

Dawn was inconsolable. She didn't want to talk to anyone, not even Sunny. It was as if her whole body had become numb, refusing to move. Eating and drinking was nearly impossible. Nothing stayed down anyway. There was just this mix of feelings overwhelming her.

Anger, sadness, dread, betrayal.

She barely noticed the knock on her door, followed by someone entering her room. Her bed dented a bit as someone sat down next to her and through tear-brimmed eyes, she recogniced her father. The old king let out a sigh and stroke his daughter's hair, a futile attempt to soothe her.

„Why dad? Why are you doing this to me?“ It was as if someone ripped his heart apart. „Dawn, please. I just want whats best for you.“ She let out a few sniffles.

„And that is why you send me away from home? From you and Marianne? And Sunny?“

Dagda cringed a bit at the mention of the elf. Maybe he could have looked over the fact that he was no fairy. But that he had been willing to use a love potion on his little girl... To force her into loving him... That was a something he couldn't forgive. Not as a king, but as a father. No. That was a liason he could not allow. Even if it meant that his daughter would resent him. Maybe she understood someday, when she had children of her own.

„Dawn. Please, you have to understand that Sunny... is not a suitable partner for you.“

„AHA!“ Dawn sat up in a heartbeat, jabbing a finger into her father's chest in a fit of anger. „So this is all because Sunny is an elf! I knew it! Screw your 'contract between kingdoms'! You just don't want an elf in your family!“

Now it was Dagda's turn to grow angry. „It is not that i have a problem with an elf. I just have a problem with THIS elf. And i would send you to the end of the world if that's what it takes!“

„And I-“ Dawn sat up on her knees, now eye to eye with her father „-will not marry some arrogant big-eared brat because you don't like my boyfriend!“

The old king stood up and cut his daughter off with a wave of his hand.

„Enough! You and Marianne have gotten more freedom from me than any princess in the other realms would have! And Sunny is not your boyfriend! Nor is he an acceptable suitor for you! You will go to the southern isles on the full moon and marry their prince! And that is my last word!“

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„Well, that is certainly an unpleasant move... but not really unusual.“ Bog stated as he sat on the edge of his bed, Marianne pacing up and down infront of him.

„Not unusual? He wants to send Dawn to complete strangers in a foreign land, to marry a guy she doesn't love! What is usual about that?!“ Bog scratched his neck.

„I'm just saying, many princesses and princes get married off to other kingdoms. Some royals are just more strict about that than others. You could consider the Fairy Kingdom and the Dark Forest the odd ones out in that matter.“

„No longer that is.“Marianne ran a hand down her face. „Father wants to send Dawn away with the next full moon. He has guards stationed infront of her room and doesn't let her speak to anyone. I thought it was just a pipe dream of his, but he seems adamant to pull this through.“

„Next full moon? You mean tomorrow night?“ „WHAT?“ Marianne let out a shriek. „I- i thought it would be like... at least a month away!“

Bog smiled sadly and lifted a brow ridge at her. „You really need to learn the moon calendar like i told you.“

„I thought it was just a goblin thing!“

„Yeah, well, most of our year is centered about the moon, while yours centers around the sun.“

She crossed her arms and smiled coyly at him. „And you can read both?“

„Of course i can.“ Bog pondered for a moment. „Who is this prince she will marry anyway?“ „I told you. From the Southern Isles.“ He grimaced a bit at her answer and shrugged his shoudlers.

„That narrows it down immensly. The Southern Isles have, like, four heirs to the throne.“

Marianne stopped her pacing and looked at him over her shoulder. „How would you know?“

„Their father and mine used to be close friends. They spend lot of their childhood here in the dark forest.“

„You are kidding! Why didn't you tell me?!“

Bog frowned. „Because you never asked. It would have been weird if i just started talking about friends from when i was, like, this tall.“ He hovered his hand a few inches over the ground.

Interest piped, Marianne flopped down on the bed, sitting on her legs and grasped his hands.

„You have to tell me everything! Who are they? How are they? What guy will Dawn marry?“

„Well, uh-“ Bog reclined a bit, then cleared his throat. „As i said, there are four heirs: three princes and one princess. But one of the princes is already married.“

„And one is a princess. Leaves two.“ "Huh? Why that?“

Marianne looked as if he had sprouted a second head. „Uh, because Dawn's a girl? And two girls can't get married?“

Bog blinket at her a few times before it clicked. „Oh, yes. I forgot that you fairies don't have custom in that.“

„Custom in what?“ „Marriage between two members of the same gender.“

„You... you actually allow that?“ He shrugged at her. „In the Dark Forrest, we just never made a difference. Two adults love each other, they can marry. End of the story. Same on the Southern Isles.“

Marianne was dumbfounded for a second, looking at him with a comical expression on her face before shaking her head.

„Whatever. Back to the topic. Who are those four heirs?“ Bog scratched his chin as he dug out the memories of his childhood.

„Well, there are Judoras, Andeareth, Valastur and Rasuli. Born in that order. Judoras is the married one, so he's out of the picture. Valastur still has his head in the clouds, so i don't think his mother will marry him off. Leaves Rasuli and Andeareth.“ He shuddered. „I really hope for Dawn that she get's Rasuli.“

„Why? I mean, aside from the fact that Dawn would never marry a woman, what is wrong with her?“

„Let's just say, Andeareth is the most... inexorable of the four. She is a great leader, no doubt. But she can be really cruel if she doesn't get her way. Dawn should make sure not to caught her on the wrong foot.“

Chapter Text

Marianne fiddled with the golden cuffs adornig her wrists as she looked at herself in the mirror. She had changed her everyday clothing with more formal attire for the first meeting with the royal family: white thighs with a light green dress, a decorative golden belt around her hips, matching the cuffs.

Thoughts rambled through her brain; feelings overflowed her heart.

For when this day ended, Dawn would be gone, given to complete strangers behind the farthest border of the kingdom. Would she ever see her sister again? They had always been together, since the day of Dawn's birth. What if she hated her new 'home'? What if this prince treated her badly? And she wasn't there to protect her? What if, what if, what if.....

Marianne closed her eyes as she took a steading breath. A small sob escaped her and she wrapped her arms around her shivering body when she felt two steadying hands on her shoulders. Instinctively, she turned around and burrowed her face into Bog's chest.

„It's alright, tough girl. Let it all out.“

Crying freely now, Marianne clung onto him, her tears now no longer a trickle, but like a stream. Bog stroked her back, not even trying to cheer her up. He didn't pester her with all those hollow phrases like every one else had done today. He was just there, allowing her to show her feelings and didn't judge her for it.

„There, there.... hush now.“ Placing a finger under her chin, he tilted up her head and whiped away her tears, along with some smudged make-up. „They're not half as bad as you think. Just... give them a chance.“ Marianne wanted to retort as a loud fanfare interrupted her. Both glanced out of the window: a big dark cloud loomed on the horizon, approaching with great speed. It was darker and faster than any cloud Marianne had ever seen.

„Time's almost up. We should head to the throne room.“ Bog muttered as her little handmaidens fixed her smudged make up before he bend down to press a kiss to her lips. He let out a small 'oof!' as Marianne threw her arms around him and pulled him into the most desperate kiss she had ever given him. „You stay at my side all the time? Until this day is over?“ she whispered into his neck as she clung to him. Initial surprise subsided, Bog gently brushed his long fingers over her hair. „All the time. Promise.“

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Ist was a horrible day. So it matched Dawn’s mood perfectly. Heavy drops of rain pounded against the walls and windows of the castle as she looked at herself in the mirror: her hair was neatly combed and she wore a very beautiful silver dress. It shimmered with every movement she made, accentuateing her features. Delicate silver jewellry adorned her neck and wrists, and she had never looked more beautiful. With an angry sob, she gripped her necklace and gave it a hefty pull. The fragile lock gave way and a loud crack echoed through her room as it hit her mirror. It bounced off and landed somewhere under her vanity. She only sniffled a bit and glared at her reflexion. It was so unfair. This should be the happiest day of her life, to be shared with the one she loved. With Sunny. Not some pampered princey from across the sea. And not only did her father betrothe her to a stranger, he also ignored any of her wishes regarding the wedding itself. Dawn wasn‘t allowed to choose decorations, her dress or the dishes served at the following feast. 

A light knock on the door made her twirl around and her stomach flipped with anger. Her father entered her room, carring a little box while he mustered her with a small smile. His brows furrowed as he noticed her missing necklace before he spotted it next to her vanity. Setting down the box, he picked up the delicate jewellry and looked at it for a moment before he slowly walked over to his daughter. 

 „You look so very beautiful, Dawn. I wish your mother was here to see you.“ The old king said as he gently laid the necklace around his daughter‘s neck. „Don‘t worry. I know you will like the prince once you get to know him.“ Dawn huffed sarcastically. „Oh sure. If it isn‘t Sunny waiting for me at the altar, i highly doubt that.“ Dagda let out a tired sigh and went back to the vanity. „I mean, what if we hate each other? Or he treats me badly? Or is terribly ugly? Or far too old?“  

„I can ensure you, he is neither too old nor ugly.“ The old king turned around and in his hands he held a delicate crown. Fine crystals shimmered on the silver metal and a vibrant sapphire was centered in the middle. Dawn‘s eyes went wide for a moment as her father approached her. „And neither will he mistreat or hate you. You might not understand my reasons yet, but never would i send you to people who would do you any harm. Maybe you will once you have children of your own.“  

Dawn shuddered involuntarily as she thought about doing it with a complete stranger. Cold crept up her spine and numbed her limbs as she realized that it was only a matter of time until she had to consummate the marriage.  

Dagda gently placed the crown on his daughter’s head and looked over her shoulder as she stared into the mirror. „I know this is distasteful for you, Dawn. But please: at least try not to look at the prince with complete revulsion.“

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Prince Rasuli sat at the vanity table in his assignet suite and gave his chrest a good brush over. They had arrived in the middle of the night and his wings were still sore from the long flight. His big sister and her constant paranoia. She had pestered their mother inessantly to speed up the wedding, fearing some non-existant conspiration against the crown. Well, if Andeareth was so anxious, she could marry that fairy. Why did it have to be him? His sister and brothers were infront of him in line for the throne. But no, his mother had quickly jumped onto the whole alliance-by-marriage-thing.  

'You are always so lonely, Rasuli. A relationship would be good for you, Rasuli. I don‘t want  you to be so alone, Rasuli.' Pfft. Pile of bullshit…. 

He thought as he arranged the last few strays of his unruly curls. Making sacrifices for the kingdom wasn‘t new to him, but he couldn't help the waves of anxiety rolling over him. What if the princess hated him? Or thought he was ugly? Or if she was a totally spoiled brat who only got on his nerves? Surpressing a shudder, Rasuli grabbed a large powder puff and applied some powder on the left side of his cheek.

„My my brother. A little make-up, a pretty gown and you could almost pass as handsome." a gleeful voice echoed over to him: his older brother Valastur leaned at the doorframe from the suite to his bedroom, winged arms crossed over his chest and a spiteful little grin on his face. Rasuli rolled his eyes and accentuated his right cheek with a bit of black powder. „Do you need anything Val? Or did you just come to watch me bathe in my misery?“ Valastur let out a snorty laugh. „Bathe in my misery? Who are you? Edgar Pinhead Poe? Come on now brother. This is your big day. I mean, what about the prospect of all night long-" The fur on Rasuli's back stood up. 

„Don't say it."

„-knee chafing-"

„I said no!"

„-sweat dripping-"

„Valastur, i‘m warning you….“

„-ball slapping-"

„I hate you, you know that?"

„-bedframe-breaking sex has you so bummed?" 

Rasuli whirled around and chucked the brush next to him at his brother. Valastur only watched unimpressed as it swooshed past him and landed on the floor with a loud clatter. He let out a annoyed hiss to wich his younger brother responded with a rude gesture. „I'm your big brother, Suli. You can tell me." Rasuli let out a tired sigh and rested his chin on his hand as he looked at his reflection in the mirror. „What if she hates my guts, Val? Or is generally unhappy with me as her husband?" Valastur shrugged. „Bad for her i guess. 'S not like you have a choice either. "

Rasuli pondered for a moment, then grabbed the intricate silver crown resting on a plush silken pillow on the far side of the vanity-table and jammed it unceremoniously on his head. „Let‘s go.“ He stroked over his gown, smoothing out a few non-existent crinkles. „We can't be late to the banquet. Or Andi will throw a fit.“

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The Royal Family was.... not at all what Marianne had expected.

They had all taken place in the dining hall to be introduced to their guests, a great feast awaiting them after their long journey. As the decorated doors opened, a familiar face greeted them all:

Bela sauntered in, chest puffed out with pride and clad in an ornate robe of dark purple. His trademark grin turned into a downright evil smile as he laid eyes on the princesses before he announced the arrival of his masters with a booming voice.

„Her majesty the great Queen Hestia; fourth of her name, ruler of the Southern Kingdom and mother of bats.“

He dipped in a low bow and shuffled to the side; off the thick crimson carpet to make way for his queen. And where both Marianne and Dawn had expected a ratty old croon, similar to Bela in appearance and attitude, they were greeted with the sight of an extraordinary beautiful woman.

Queen Hestia practically floated over the carpet in graceful steps, her long silken dress trailing behind her. Her skin was light grey and shimmered silvery in the crystal light. She lacked a furry crest around her neck, and her ears were far more elegant. Long black hair was pinned back with ornate clasps and a crown unlike any Marianne had ever seen rested upon her head. It was intricate and silver, a shiny moonstone and a vibrant sunstone hovered in unison above her; held up by powerful enchantment.

King Dagda stepped forward and bowed his head respectfully, the gesture returned by the Queen. „Queen Hestia, i cannot tell you how delighted not only i, but my whole kingdom are about your presence.“ The smile on her lips was genuine as she thanked the King for his hospitality before her kind, golden brown eyes settled on Marianne.

„My stars. Marianne, is that you?“

Bewildered, she nodded. „Forgive me but... have we met before?“

Hestia let out a soft chuckle before extending a winged hand and placing it under Marianne's chin, so she could tilt her head up and take a better look at her face. Her last three fingers were elongated and fused by the membrane of her wings, only her thumb and indexfinger free of skin; adorned with sharp claws. But the skin between her fingers was impossibly soft, even more than a fresh rose petal.

„Of course we have, my dear. But i think neither you nor Dawn can remember.“ Reciprocating the gesture on Dawn as well, Hestia let her gaze wander over them. „Both of you were still young children when we last met. And it warms my heart to see what beautiful women you both have become.“

Marianne and Dawn exchanged views, clearly surprised.

„But i know a certain someone who definetely remembers me“ said the Queen and her motherly gaze settled on Bog, who had been standing a few feet behind Marianne along with his mother, Stuff and Thang. He stepped forward and dropped down on one knee before grasping Hestia's outstretched hand and gently pressed it to his forehead.

„It is my highest pleasure to meet you again, great Queen.“

An amused and very un-queen-like little snort followed by a chuckle escaped her.

„Well-mannered as always. You have become a good King, Bog. I can tell.“ Her gaze wandered over the goblins standing in the background, with Griselda winking at her with a big smile. Thang tried to yell a greeting as he flared his arms to get her attention, but Stuff was quick to slap a hand over his mouth. She reciprocated their greeting with her own gentle smile and a little nod, before turning her attention back at the portal.

„And i am sure you remember my children-“ Hestia gestured towards the door, and eight eyes shimmered in the dark hallway „-Judoras, Andeareth, Valastur and Rasuli.“

Four bats joined their mother, displaying the same noble elegance as they approached. Marianne quickly remembered what Bog told her about them:

Judoras -the eldest- was the largest of them all, with buldging muscles and broad shoulders. A nasty white scar was visible on his folded wing, probably spanning over the whole limb. The hairy crest around his neck was not as even and flawless as those of his brothers, but by far the thickest. His skin was darker and a stern look was plastered on his face. His straight hair was very long, almost reaching his waist as it swished over his back in a ponytail.

Andeareth was standing next to her older brother, just as tall as her mother; towering nearly two head's length over the fairies. Her straight hair was pitch black, pinned back with pearl-decorated hairpins and her skin tone similar to her mother's. She also sported the same high cheek bones and finely boned face. Marianne took one good look at her and knew why Bog had warned her about the princess: Andeareth looked like the type of woman who didn't accept any kind of competition, the queen bee, the biggest and baddest bitch of them all. She was practically oozing self-confidence.

Valastur was a tad shorter, his hair bound up in a ponytail like that of his older brother, but it was not as long. He was more slender, more lean-muscled, and were Judoras' face was stern, his was far softer with a mischievous smirk on his lips.

Rasuli on the other hand had to be by far the most unique bat in all of existence: his skin was etheral white like moonlight and a pattern of pitch black spots, big and small, was littered all over him. One large blotch was situated over his right eye and took up a large part of his cheek and forehead; the lashes and eyebrow on this side of his face not black but pure white. His hair was also by far the longest of the four, reaching past his hips as it tumbled down his back in large black and white curls. The soft membrane of his wings was also devoid of any colour, safe for a few spots here and there, as well as on his thumbs and index fingers. Marianne was able to see even the finest blood vessels as the light from the crystal lamps shone through the thin skin.

He was fascinating. Darkly beautiful, even.

In one suavè motion he took a step forward, grasped Dawn's hand and bowed down on one knee before her:

„Princess Dawn. It is my greatest joy and pleasure to finally meet you in person. Know that i am overjoyed by this glorious union of our lives.“

Chapter Text

It was a grandè feast. That was for sure.

Marianne felt her eyes bulge as she took in all the dishes carefully prepared by the kitchen staff: giant roasts and whole fish, piles of steamed grains and various other side dishes, vegetables in all kind of preparations as well as tediously stacked pyramids of tartelettes and windbags. Juice and wine was served in chilled silver pitchers and champagne flowed in numerous tiny streams down a pyramid of intricate crystal glasses. On top of all were more different kind of fruits she had ever seen in her entire life. Juicy smooth and soft cubes, others more sour and tart. One fruit was served in slices, the countless little kernels removed, and the bats hanging from the ceeling fought for the best pieces of the soft orange meat.

To be honest, never had the fairy kingdom hostet more messy guests: Marianne would never forget the disgusted look Dawn and she exchanged as they watched their guests dig in, chewed their food throuroughly, only to suck out all the juices and spit the remains on the polished floor! In no time, the whole festive hall was covered with mushed pieces of fruit, condeming the servants to permanently wipe the hall. Marianne couldn‘t tell if her father shared their disgust, if so, he hid it well. King Dagda was situated on her left, Queen Hestia at his side. The latter was enyoing some slices of the juicy yellow fruit, but at least she had the decency to swallow her food. Eyes wandering, Marianne‘s gaze found Dawn‘s.

Sitting next to her brand new husband at a table only for the bride and the groom, she looked strangely calm: not one tear rolled over her cheeks, not once did she pull up her nose or tried to surpress a sniffle. No, Dawn just sat there, like a puppet, next to an equally stiff Rasuli. He occaisonally nipped at his wine, but didn‘t look directly at his bride. Marianne noticed how he observed the crowd, eyes firmly pinned on two persons over the rim of his cup.

Bog was engaged in a lively conversation wih Andeareth, who had abandoned the seating order and was now sitting between him and Griselda. The old goblin was constantly pouring rose wine into their cups while the princess continued her story. And then she saw it. The look on Bog‘s face. He drank in every word Andeareth said, gazing into her pristine face with a stupid grin on his lips. When both let out a hearty laugh, her hand landed on his thigh and his wrapped around her shoulders to draw her in a firm hug. As they laughed and laughed over their silly joke, Marianne felt a blinding hot, boiling fury bubble up in her chest. She made way to stand up, to wipe that stupid grin off that cunt‘s face, to slap Bog five across the eyes. How dare he, flirting with another woman at her sister‘s wedding?! How dare he leave her sit alone like an idiot?

„Marianne!“ Bog flared his arms wide as he spotted her, a wide grin on his face. Andeareth already did let go of his thigh, resuming her pristine and orderly appearance as a princess. 

„My favourite tough girl! We were just talking about you!“ 

„Oh, were you now?“ Marianne crossed her arms with annoyance. 

„Sure! I just told Andi how you punched that arrogant prick right in the face!“ He swished his fist through the air, almost knocking out Thang, who just brought another bottle of wine, then slammed it on the table. „Perfect knuckle sandwich, Andi! Wish you could have seen it!“ Andeareth let out a melodic laugh and, after a look at Marianne‘s face, snached the bottle from Thang before he could hand it to his king. „I think you had enough, Boggy. Better keep your sweetheart company, before she gives you a knuckle sandwich.“ 

Bog frowned, took a look at his girlfriend, then nodded. „Are you sure you can handle that alone?“ He asked with a wink at the wine. „Oh, don‘t worry about me.“ Andeareth turned in her seat, her gaze settling on a pretty, black haired fairy with emerald green wings. „I won‘t run out of company.“ And off she was, practically floatig across the hall, bottle in hand.

„Sorry-“ Bog muttered through the awkward silence „-just got a little… carried away.“ 

„It‘s fine.“ It was not. She was still mad. „You guys are pretty close, huh?“

„Well…“ He sheepishly scratched the back of his neck. „Andi, her brothers and i go way back, like i told you.“

„Way back? You mean since diapers!“ Griselda chimed in, earning herself a frustrated groan from her son and a surprised look from Marianne. „That long?“

„Jup.“ The old goblin picked at something stuck between her teeth, then washed it down with a gulp of something dark and strong-smelling. „My late husband and their father were super close. And Hestia and i were pregnant the same time.“ „Seriously?“ „Sure! She with her Rasuli and i with Mr. Grouch here.“ She pointed her thumb at her son, who hid his face in his hands. „The two were inseparable from day one. Not much of a challenge if you ask me, given that Rasuli is only twenty-six hours older than Bog. We always jested that he couldn‘t wait to meet Rasuli, so he made me go into labour shortly after! And let me tell you, twenty hours it took! Better than poor Hestia though, Rasuli tormented her for over three days and nights before he was finally born and-“

„Alright mother, THANK YOU.“ Bog cut her off, rising from his seat with a small swagger and offered Marianne his hand. 

„Sorry about that.“ They had strayed from the party, finding a quiet spot on one of the adjacent balconies. „It‘s fine.“ Marianne chuckled. „I know your mother by now.“ She leaned on the railing, observing the now dark meadow. Most of the flowers had closed their petals, but the night was far from being quiet. In addition to the royal court the elves of Elvesdale also merrily celebrated the wedding of Dawn and Rasuli. Not that they knew the prince or his family, but the chance to rest and throw a large party was not to be turned down.

‚I wonder how Sunny is feeling.‘ Marianne thought for a moment. Not even in his home he could escape…

———————

„Hey, Sunny! Come, join us for a drink!“ 

„Nah. Thanks though.“ Sunny‘s friends simply shrugged at his melancholy, leaving him to brood in his spot at the small stream near Elvesdale. „I don‘t get him. I mean, he can‘t think that he got a real chance with princess Dawn on the long shot."

To say he was miserable was the understatement of the century. He finally finally confessed his feelings to Dawn and despite all odds she returned them. And that old fool of a king had to go and ruin everything! 

Anger rising, he chucked a pebble in the pond. He didn‘t even give them the chance to say goodbye! Not that he hadn‘t tried to see her: he tried to sneak in the palace, smuggle himself in inside a barrel, even tried to climb up to her room but he was caught every damn time. No visitors were allowed, not even Marianne could see her. And now, he was condemned to watch the love of his life marry someone else. 

„None of us can deter Dad from this. We both need to… let her go.“ Marianne told him. 

No. No! 

His anger rose more and more, bubbled up like a volcano and threatened to explode. Maybe the old king tried to get rid of him, but he won‘t go down without a proper fight!

He gazed over the meadow and up at the palace: music was echoing out of the many illuminated windows, wich twinkled in the dark like droplets of gold. Perhaps now, with them all celebrating, he could sneak past the guards and challenge this prince from the whatsoever islands to step back as a contestor for Dawns hand.

Yes, he could do this! He may be an elf, but he had been through worse. He could handle this! He could save his girl from an arranged marriage! 

„Hold on, Dawn. Your boyfriend is coming to your rescue!“

——————

Rasuli‘s gaze wandered around the festive hall, observing the crowd of attendants. The mood was exuberant, people cheered and raised their glassed for one toast after another. To say he shared their joy would have been a lie, but he tried to not look completely miserable either. Well, he looked less miserable than his new wife, of course: sitting beside him, Dawn looked like she was forced to hold a piece of soap in her mouth. Or a piece of papaya gone bad. 

The wedding ceremony itself had been fast and quiet, with both kneeling before a priest in the palace‘s chapel. They exchanged rings, wich was a very odd custom for him; the golden band now adorning his left index finger. Then they wrote both their names in a large, leather-bound book containing the royal family tree. And that was it. No need to exchanged vows in the way of his people, no need for him to cut off his most beautiful strand of hair to offer it to her, no need to seal the bond of matrimony with drops of their blood. 

It felt like an affront to his ancestors. 

„Chrm chrm. Milady?“ Dawn flinched at the sound of his voice. „I am very sorry, it was not my intention to startle you.“ Rasuli apologized politely. „I was just wondering if you wish to acompany me? I was about to strech my legs a bit before our first dance.“ Another strange custom, on wich King Dagda insisted. But if it pleased the old king, Rasuli could go along with it. 

„Oh, uhhm… I think i rather stay here. If you don‘t mind?“ Princess Dawn was fiddleing with her napkin, then traced the intricate stem of her chalice. He could tell how uncomfortable she was. „Of course. I won‘t be away for long. Excuse me.“

The stone floor was pleasently cool on the tips of his wings as he allowed them to drag over it like a long cape, heading for one of the balconies. Cool night air was streaming in through the open window, circulating the stuffy air in the festive hall. 

„-are really close, huh?“

„Like i told you: Rasuli and i are as close as brothers.“

Quickly hiding behind a potted bushy plant, Rasuli perked his ears and listened

to the well-known voice of Bog and his new girlfriend. Marie? Marjorie? 

„Wich is strange, since you seem to be far closer to his sister.“

„Please, Marianne.“ Marianne. That was her name. „Like i told you before: i don’t have any interest in Andi other than a friend and she has even less interest in me!“ 

Rasuli surpressed a chuckle. Hell would freeze over before Andi would show interest in a man. 

„Sorry for leaving you on your own. It‘s just… i haven‘t seen the lot of them in a very long time.“ He could see how Bog held up one hand and crossed his heart. „For the rest of the wedding, i‘ll be at your side only. Except for when my mother forces me to dance with her. Then i cannot.“ He heard this Marinne-fairy laugh and felt a involuntary grin tug at the corners of his lips. Oh yes, Griselda could be a handful. But always loving, always caring. Rasuli remembered to be her favourite, for Judoras had been too brawly, Andi too wild and Valastur too much of a prankster. But Rasuli has always been the small, the shy one. Little cute Rasuli, born too early, too tiny, the baby with the skin disease, the sickly one. But Griselda never made him feel less than he was, always treated him like her own son. In every way. Not even he was save from getting called out by her in public. 

„Deal. How do you like the wedding? Dad really went overboard with the preprations.“ 

„It is really nice. Not like a wedding in the bats custom, but still nice.“

Rasuli watched how Marianne lifted a brow. „How are their weddings, then?“

Bog scratched his stubble. „Well, a lot more drinks. More messy. And the music is louder. They usually last about several days up to weeks.“ 

„Have you ever been to one?“ 

„Of course. Five winter moons ago, when Judoras got married.“

„Well, i would love to attend a wedding from a completely different culture. I bet it is-“

But Rasuli never found out what Marianne thought about a wedding in their custom, for someone grabbed his shoulder and pulled him out of his hiding place. 

„Just what do you think you‘re doing?“ Queen Hestia was standing before him, her grip like a vice. 

„Mother! I was just-“

„Neglecting your wife, that‘s what you‘re doing!“ she cut him off, her voice like a dagger. „Go to your bride, you are about to dance. And don‘t mess this up, you hear me, Rasuli?“

„But-“

„No ‚but‘, son! You will do your duty, regardless of your personal sentiment. Understood?“

Rasuli nodded, then ushered back to his seat, hoping neither Bog nor his female companion had noticed him.