Chapter Text
IMPORTANT DETAILS:
Humans are seen as the most inferior species while domesticated pets are seen as the most superior. Cyrene/Mem is seen as extremely beautiful due to her being the only one of her species. You are looked upon as improper since you are a wild cat breed. (If you’ve seen P&P, you can see the ‘inferior circumstances’ from these details)
All characters have a human form except with ears + tail (including Cyrene, excluding Mr. and Mrs. Bennet)
All the same estate names will be used
Instead of the whole London arc, you will learn to warm up to Mydei through his smaller actions
Mydei is taller than Phainon (since Mr. Darcy is taller than Mr. Bingley)
You and Cyrene are both adopted
Aglaea and Anaxagoras are significantly older than everybody else, they are growing old together as a grumpy married couple that bicker 24/7
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It was a quiet morning in Longbourne. The grass danced with each breeze and morning doves cooed their song. You were sitting in the drawing room with your sister, Cyrene. She was embroidering while you were invested in Castorice’s latest fanfiction. Serene mornings like these were the ones you savored the most, for they didn’t last long. As your mother and father woke, you could already hear their passive aggressive comments and muffled arguing.
With a dramatic sigh, you shut your book and laid it on the glass table, peeking at Cyrene.
She was stunning. She was one of a kind, quite literally. Cyrene was the only one with bright pink hair and a chest made of gemstones. Everything from head to toe was a sight for sore eyes. You just hoped she would get married soon so you could be next in line. What guy wouldn’t want her?
You, on the other hand, were nothing spectacular. Sure you were quite rare, with silky white hair and spots on your tail and ears. Snow leopards weren’t commonly found on this side of the world. However, both you and Cyrene were adopted as babies, so you didn’t know where they were found anyways. Wildcats were deemed useless to research by scientists, a field mostly composed of domesticated pets. God how you wanted to just punch every damn domesticated whatnot in the face.
You were lucky to even be in this house. Wildcats usually had no place in high society, but your circumstances led you to this family. Maintaining face was your utmost priority, even if it came at the cost of your pride.
After a few moments of silence, Cyrene stopped her crafts when your parents stormed into the room. Aglaea spoke first.
“Girls, tell your father that he must go and meet Phainon. It will prove most advantageous for your marriage aspects!”
You and Cyrene both glanced at each other. She questioned, “now who is this Phainon you speak of?”
“Well only the newest resident of Netherfield Estate! The one neighboring our own. He makes £5,000 a year!”
Both of your jaws dropped in shock. Cyrene rose from her chair, approaching Aglaea. “5,000!?” She looked at Anaxagoras, whose tired eyes spoke for themselves. “Oh, father, please! If you don’t meet this man, I shall grow into an unmarried old maid!” Cyrene clasped his hands in her own, begging desperately for this opportunity.
He sighed. “There is no need, for I have already met him.”
Both Aglaea and Cyrene gasped. Instantly, Aglaea’s fierce expression turned to joyful. “And you hid it from me until this critical moment! How you tease my nerves so, Anaxa! Now tell us, how was this Phainon?”
He gave her a small smile. “Very energetic, he lights up the room around him. He actually gave me an invite..” Anaxa pulled an envelope from his coat and cleared his throat to read.
“Dear Mr. Bennet,
I hope you and your family would do me the honor of attending my opening ball at Netherfield this evening. I would be delighted to meet the rest of the lovely ladies of your household! Oh, not for any funny business-.. (smear) I hope to see you there!
-Phainon of Netherfield Estate.”
Anaxa looked in confusion at the smear, and Cyrene laughed at it. “Why, he seems quite clumsy and carefree. I would love to meet him tonight.”
He grinned. “Of course, you two. The carriage will depart at 6:30PM.”
Happily, the couple left, leaving you and Cyrene to your girlish giggles. She ran up to you and held both of your hands.
“Oh, Delia, can you believe it!? A perfect marriage prospect! I will be sure to secure him as soon as possible so you may start searching for your own!” She jumped up and down, a giant smile plastered on her face.
You smiled right back. Though you weren’t interested in romance too much, it was necessary for your future. If you never married, you would be stuck in peasant life on the streets. “First, we have to make sure this Phainon is actually a good match.”
“Delia, you are so quick to put your guard up. If only you had seen the letter!” She continued to smile. Ugh, she was too nice for her own good. Cyrene often never saw the bad qualities in people, only focusing on the good. “Pessimism is not a redeeming quality, y’know.”
“Pessimism? I think I’m being realistic. You haven’t even met the man, Cyrene.”
“Delia, you know how old I’m getting. I debuted years ago, and no one dares to propose. You know why. This could be my chance.”
Yes, you knew. Your parents were human. Not only were they seen as the most inferior species, neither Aglaea nor Anaxa had any intentions on upholding etiquette in public. When they were next to each other, arguing was all they did. They didn’t even stop when the whole room went silent! It was such an embarrassment, such humiliation that all bachelors seeking Cyrene’s hand were scared away. After all, if they had proposed, the bachelor would be stuck with them as in-laws for life.
It was, effectively, the worst position to be in. To have such irresistible qualities yet men avoid her because of something she has little control over. You two could only hope that they would have a change of heart at tonight’s ball.
For the evening, you would be wearing a dark blue ball gown that bragged voluminous ruffles throughout, accentuating your figure and your radiant white hair. Your wrists and neck were decorated with flashy silver jewelry that matched the gemstones on the dress.
Cyrene donned an off-shoulder cream dress, leaving a space for her crystal heart. Her hair was styled into a loose, natural braid that gave her a goddess-like vibe. Flowers of different colors were sprinkled throughout her hair, bringing out her mesmerizing eyes. She was truly unique in the best ways possible. You hoped that this Phainon would take a liking to her so you wouldn’t have to live in the shadow of her spotlight forever.
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As you two stepped off of the carriage, the sheer size of the estate left you gaping while Cyrene was pulling you at the finger.
“C’mon Delia! I’m dying to meet this man!” She waved in front of your face and smiled adorably.
You chuckled and followed behind her, your eyes adjusting to the ambient lights as you both entered the doorway. People filled the rooms to the brim, each corner buzzing with pleasant conversation. The orchestra was playing for those already dancing, the main room resounding with cheers and laughs. The watchful eye of many constantly observed who was walking in and out, a clear sign that the host hadn’t made his entry yet. Therefore, you and Cyrene had decided to watch the dancing until then.
After a few minutes, the whole crowd went silent and turned to face the entrance. With childish anticipation, you both went on your tip-toes to see who could have such a powerful presence to silence an entire ball.
Two men made their way to the dance hall. One had fluffy, light blue hair, and was frantically waving at everyone who made eye contact with him. It was obvious he was quite nervous. He had pointy ears and a giant tail that wagged happily behind him.
A Samoyed?..
The person next to him, however, kept a cool countenance and didn’t even spare a glance at anyone who greeted him. His hair was long and spiky, going from a dark blonde to red at the tips. A glaring red tattoo was visible on his cheek, and some others went down his neck. It was unlike anything you had seen before. Yet, the most notable thing was his species. He was a domesticated cat. Of course, there were many domesticated pets in high society, but none that looked like him. His ears were strikingly long and had extra hairs at the end, and his tail was unusually big and fluffy for a cat.
After a bit of improper staring, you came to a conclusion: he was a Maine Coon. You had only read about these in books; apparently, they hailed from a Kremnoan bloodline, a population almost extinct.
In a hushed tone, you asked, “Now, who is your future husband?”
Cyrene giggled and whispered in your ear. “I believe the one on the left is Phainon.”
“..And the person with the quizzical brow?”
She playfully smacked your shoulder. “Oh, you.. I actually heard about a companion of his, named Mydeimos. Did you know he makes £10,000 a year?”
You coughed on your saliva, an obnoxiously loud sound in the quiet room. “What the- That’s double compared to Phainon, and £5,000 is already an absurd amount!”
“Hehe!~ If I marry Phainon, I’ll be sure to buy you the finest chocolates.” Cyrene poked the tip of your nose and pulled you towards them.
Though a woman was supposed to be introduced to a man through the parent, who’s to say an informal introduction hurt anybody?
Cyrene pushed through the crowd and jumped out in front of Phainon and Mydeimos. She plastered on her fake yet beautiful smile and bowed, in which you followed.
“Good evening, Phainon of Netherfield.” She turned to the other. “May I ask your name?”
“Mydei.” His voice was gruff and deep.
Phainon waved at you two. “I’m pleased to meet you two. Your father was telling me all about you guys this morning! Cyrene and Delia, right?”
You swished your tail against the cold tile floor, feeling Mydei’s intense stares on you. You were sure it was because you were a wild species while he was domesticated. “Yes, I am the latter. Thank you for inviting us to the ball tonight.”
Cyrene imitated your gratitude with a polite grin and bow.
Phainon’s tail began wagging as he gazed upon Cyrene. “Oh, don’t mention it. It was the least I could do.”
The four of you (or more like the three of you, excluding the grumpy Maine Coon) discussing various topics in a carefree manner, sharing different opinions and many laughs. Everyone in the group seemed merry.. Save for Mydei.
As you brought up reading, Phainon and Cyrene didn’t have much to say in the matter.
However, Mydei’s lips were parted, about to speak, before a loud voice called Phainon’s name. Some other mother, quite brazen, was calling for Phainon so she could introduce him to her daughters.
“Ah-.. I’m sorry, I must cut this conversation short. Formal introductions must take priority.” Phainon’s tone was collected, but his ears and tail drooped in disappointment. His eyes lingered on Cyrene as he turned away. Similarly, Mydei bowed and walked away by Phainon’s side.
Cyrene looked at you happily. “Do you think he has taken an interest in me?”
“If only you saw the way he was looking at you!” You shook her shoulder lightly.
Cyrene was often an overthinker, and was probably replaying the conversation in her head multiple times. In order to avoid becoming subjects to all of her questions of if Phainon really liked her, you excused yourself.
“I must go greet Castorice. Cyrene, I promise he likes you!”
She smiled and waved softly. “Of course.”
____________________
You quickly spotted and greeted Castorice, your best friend. She had light purple hair and long bunny ears that flowed down in a gentle manner. She was delicate yet sensible, always giving the best advice while considering your feelings.
She led you to a small hiding spot, under the benches near the dessert tables.
“New bachelors, huh?” She smiled.
“Yes, Jane is quite ready to be married off already. She has her sights set on that blue-haired one, Phainon. He has quite the salary and his joyous energy is contagious.”
Castorice’s eyebrows furrowed slightly in worry. You tilted your head in confusion.
“Cas, why do you look so troubled? Do you not believe them a suitable match?”
“Delia, I do, it’s just.. If she is so motivated to marry Phainon, then she must show signs of it. A woman must show more affection than she feels in order to get a husband. It’s the first rule of womanly society. I have been watching Phainon ever since he entered, and dozens of women have already been formally introduced to him.” She paused. “I’m surprised your mother didn’t attack the opportunity to be the first in line.”
You sighed. “Cyrene is enrapturing enough on her own. Phainon would be a fool not to favor her above others, even if it was just an informal meeting.”
“Beauty can’t be a deciding factor to someone as influential as him. It would be humiliating to Phainon to marry someone who does not truly love him.”
You brushed off her comments with an exasperated sigh. There’s no way, right? However, your attention was immediately diverted when Castorice pointed at both Phainon and Mydeimos passing by your hiding spot, conversing about.. You and Cyrene.
You and Castorice held your breaths and listened to their words amidst the chatter.
“I have never been surrounded by so many pretty women.” Phainon chuckled.
“You have caught the eye of the only handsome girl in the room.”
“She is the most beautiful creature I have ever beheld.” He paused. “But her sister, Delia, is very agreeable!”
“Fairly tolerable,” Mydeimos corrected, “and not handsome enough to tempt me.”
At his words, your smile faded as you looked back to Castorice, who was still staring at the men with pure loathing. They continued walking and talking, and eventually were out of earshot.
She turned back to you. “We shall be grateful he doesn’t like you or you’d have to put up with such a man.”
You chuckled. “Precisely. I wouldn’t dance with him if it saved the entirety of our country.”
You two shared hushed laughs and slowly exited your hiding spot. Castorice always knew how to cheer you up, but Mydei’s words still lingered on your mind. How could one not take offense to that?
From afar, you could see your mother aggressively pointing at you and trying to summon you, to which you hesitantly agreed to. It was time for the formal introduction.
“My time has come, Cas.. Farewell!”
“Adieu. Good luck, Delia!”
Within a moment's notice, you found yourself in front of both men, with Cyrene clutching your hand nervously. Her outward behavior was in contrast, composed and polite. This was basically what women like her lived for; find a rich man and secure a stable future in order to avoid bringing dishonor to your family. She was only getting older, and this could be it.
Aglaea spoke first, ready to show off her daughters like investments. “Now, my eldest here is Cyrene, renowned as the most handsome and accomplished in this city.”
Ugh, here your mother went again.
Cyrene looked at your mother with fear in her eyes, trying to nonverbally shush her.
“And this here is my second eldest, Delia. She is… also very accomplished and intelligent.”
You both bowed and gave a small smile to the other men.
Phainon gave a beaming grin. “Ladies of Longbourn Estate! We shared a lovely conversation just an hour ago! I could not be more pleased to make your acquaintance.” He then looked at Mydei, expecting him to return the energy.
He sighed and barely spared Cyrene a glance, staring listlessly at your judgemental face. How could you help it, when your species were at odds with one another? “Good evening, ladies of Longbourn. I hope this ball has been going well for you.” A brief greeting with obviously no interest led an awkward silence to arise.
Cyrene smiled, trying to remain put together. “Of course we are. Mydei, correct? Of which estate?” She gestured towards Mydei.
Even though Cyrene was talking to Mydei, he avoided her gaze, looking straight at you. You glared at him with disdain. “..Mydeimos of Pemberley.” A glint of amusement flashed in his eyes at seeing your contemptuous expression.
Cyrene glanced at you, concerned. “Oh.. I see.”
Aglaea quickly interjected to keep the conversation moving. “Now, my dear Cyrene here has been the object of many affections. One of which wrote her pages and pages of romantic poetry! I was sure he would make her an offer, but…” Aglaea looked away bashfully, as if trying to induce guilt among the men.
You forcefully grabbed your mother’s arm, trying to prevent further rambling. “Oh, I wonder who discovered the power of poetry in driving away love!” You said, referencing the fact that Cyrene absolutely did not return the man’s affections.
Mydei looked at you with a raised brow. “I was under the impression poetry was the food of love.”
You responded with speed. “If the love is genuine and stout, it may. However, if the man holds her in no true regard, a poor sonnet may kill any affection stone dead.” You gave him an obviously fake grin.
His eyes flickered across your face. “So what, if I may ask, do you recommend to encourage affection?”
A witty reply immediately popped in your mind. Revenge was imminent!
“Dancing.” You looked up at his face and slightly bared your fangs. “Even if.. One’s partner is barely tolerable.”
His composure faltered for only a second, yet was still noticeable.
No one else had understood your words except him, leaving a tense silence among the group. From rooms away, you could hear the orchestra begin their pieces again, signalling the continuation of the dancing festivities.
In nervousness and embarrassment, you quickly turned on your heel and took long strides away from Mydei, tail wrapping around your leg. You had never said something so improper, especially since every action could make or break a girl’s reputation.
____________________
You spotted Cyrene from across the hall sharing a dance with Phainon among the various other couples. You bade Castorice a quick farewell and made your way over to the dance hall. And as luck had it, you ended up right next to Mydei.
After you were satisfied with watching Cyrene and Phainon dance and exchange joyful smiles, you addressed the man next to you.
“Do you dance, Mydeimos?”
He glanced down in your direction, but not directly at you. “Not if I can help it.”
You quickly turned back to your original position. The silence was even worse now.
The lack of conversation lasted for many minutes, or what felt like hours. You swallowed dryly as the dance concluded.
Just before you were about to walk away from Mydei to escape such a situation, he spoke.
“May I have a dance, Delia?” He was now staring straight at you, observing every expression you made.
You froze in shock, not even looking at him. As much as you wanted to, rejecting a dance was seen as extremely rude, so you had no choice. “..You may.”