Fantasy Hidden Magic // (All spots full!)

[KAYDEN]

Cyrus

Everything that Cyrus thought his life would be was now in shambles but maybe that was a good thing. His father was dead to him, there was no more need to protect him or try and hold onto a relationship that died alongside his mother. There was no need to keep up with shady dealings and all the bullshit he got himself into. Now Cyrus could start to live the life he wanted, he could fight for what mattered to him. He could try to be happy. Loire was the center of all that. Not only was she his best friend but she was the love of his life, she was the only girl he had ever had eyes for and it was her or nothing. Cyrus was okay with that for a while but now, now he was going to fight. If the only thing standing between them was this magic of hers then they would get through it together.

Cyrus watched as Loire stood and pulled out her wand, a grin spreading across her face. “That’s my girl.” He knew she didn’t feel good, he knew she was scared but he needed her to try and it appeared as if she was willing. Good. “All the best people are right? Come on Loire no more stalling.”

His wand was outstretched before him as he waited, watching what she would do next. The last thing on his list of possibilities was sneezing. It made 6 different speeding projectiles come from the tip of her wand. It caught Cyrus off guard sure but he was still able to easily handle them, a swirl of fire dancing from the end of his wand and lashing around in the air, turning the icicles to water before they hit him. Loire was the DADA professor sure but she wasn’t the only one who was skilled, Cyrus lived that life out in reality. He fought more than once to save his own life and against much worse spells than ice.

Cyrus paused for a moment to make sure she was done before approaching Loire, pushing her arm down gently before pocketing his own wand. His hand moved to her face to brush away some of the hair that was stuck to her cheek from her tears. “Don’t run away from me anymore.” It was rare for him to have confidence like this, maybe it was something about the impressive skills he just displayed or maybe it was simply the fact that for once he felt like things could turn out okay. “Don’t hide. Don’t be scared. Don’t marry Hunter.” The last part came out without thinking, but fuck he meant it. “And please for the love of god admit your sick so we can get you on the mend. You shouldn’t be out here crying with the cows you should be in bed under an insane amount of blankets with us tending to your needs and eating soup and drinking water and -“ There it was, the typical Cyrus rambling. For a moment he was scared his nerves wouldn’t catch up.

 

[EclipseRosee]

Larkyn

Why did they all let their family have so much power over them? Up until a few months ago Larkyn felt it was perfectly normal but with every knew fucked up addition he found himself more and more dumbfounded. Larkyn did well in school, he was a good kid. Athletic, studious, kind. He graduated and went into auror training. He wasn’t naive enough to believe that his accomplishments were one hundred percent his own but they were a fair fucking 90. Dru was the same! As was Loire! Although Loire was far more disobedient than Larkyn was. Yet here he was marrying someone because he was told to? Because her father was apparently off his fucking rocker? It was scary as all hell but it wouldn’t be this bad if they stopped allowing them to control their lives, at least it was a nice thought to have.

The more time Larkyn spent with Sapphira and the more he listened to her the more he grew extremely frustrated with his situation.

“At this point I’m only going forward for Dru. I-“ Larkyn stopped and sighed, “She means a lot to me truly, just like Loire. She’s been at my side nearly as long and has always done good by me. She’s a good friend and she had a whole hell of a lot more to lose if we don’t get married…” Larkyn had to keep telling himself that. It was the only way to keep himself from bailing. “I have a successful life and career away from my parents, it would stand alone without them. Dru, would lose everything if she pissed off her dad. He could black ball her.” And there was the whole vision thing.

Then Sapphira said something about running away and while Larkyn was fairly sure she was kidding it didn’t keep him from literally dropping his head to the table in frustration. “Saph.” She had no clue how great it all sounded, shit in his mind they didn’t even have to run! He would just tell his parents no if it wasn’t for all this other mess! He would tell them no, that there was someone else. That she was beautiful and bright and brilliant. That she made his life better just by existing and that when she walked into a room he felt faint. They could have a life in London, she liked bigger cities and he would love the chance to work as an auror for a bigger ministry. It… could all be so perfect if life wasn’t so fucked.

Larkyn lifted himself from the table as she began to go on about the trip to New York, most of it sounded like another language to him but he still watched her with a soft smile. It seemed like she truly loved it there and that made him want to see it all the more. Then when she was done he watched her face falter slightly. “You know Saph, you don’t have to leave. I- I mean I’m just saying. You fit in so well here, you’re doing great as a professor and Dixie is here. I’m here… I just want you to make sure you’re looking out for your happiness as well as everyone else’s. You seem so focused on mine and I truly appreciate it but don’t forget yourself. You told me that once.” He reached across the table and rested his hand on hers. God he wished things were different.

Dixie and Terran got the two of them to play Uno with them which left the conversation on pause for a little while. Though the entire time Larkyns mind was swimming with ways to get out of the wedding while keeping both sets of parents happy. That however would require understanding whatever deal was made behind closed doors for this arrangement, as well as for Loire and Hunters. Maybe it would be worth snooping around when they got back from holiday…

“Draw another f- bloody hell!” Larkyn put down the draw four card and went to give Terran a smirk but found that when he looked up he saw him and Dixie in the middle of a kiss. “Hah- ah.” Larkyn looked over to Sapphira and stifled a laugh, mouthing to her that they should sneak away. He stood and reached out for her hand, helping her up before leading her to the small kitchen. “Well that was unexpected.”

 

[ZombieBaee]

Druella “Dru” Arville

The walls she had spent so long putting up, ones that very few people got to see behind, ones that protected her from hurt. They were quickly falling. Dru wanted to keep up with pushing him away, telling herself the only way forward was to go through with this marriage. Telling herself it was her job and her job alone to make this okay. It was her father! Part of her wished she could just go to someone and turn him in to stop all this but what could she say? Hey I had a vision that my father might use the killing curse at some unknown time and place? Yeah they would lock her ass up like they had Cyrus. Only she would likely be getting a one way ticket to an asylum. But despite all this Dru was finding herself melting at his words. Hunter was promising to keep her safe, to keep himself safe. To make everything okay. “I- okay.” It was all she could say, she had no will left to fight it anymore and it seemed fairly obvious he wasn’t backing down.

“I genuinely hate that you’re able to be sarcastic and joke right now.” Dru felt a smile break through on her miserable face, her eyes looking up at him where he stood smirking. “I cannot believe that I fell in love with the most annoying man I’ve ever had the displeasure of meeting. I just- Merlin help me.” His hands moved to her face and his words warmed her heart, any hope of a fight she had left was completely gone. When Hunter leaned down and kissed her any bit of Dru that was cold was gone, her face was likely bright pink and warmth radiated through her. “You are too much.”

“Just- as long as you’re okay with things going forward as planned. I don’t intend to give the man any notion of things going off track but… I want to find another way. I know Larkyn does too. I know marriage isn’t a death sentence, it’s not permanent but…” Dru wanted to be with Hunter, legitimately. In front of everyone and without fear. She wanted to live her own life and she wanted Larkyn to be able to as well. Getting married to someone she didn’t love was okay before she knew what love really was. Now it felt so wrong, it felt like it would be completely throwing in the towel to her father and handing him the reigns for their rest of her life. Knowing what she now knew about him? That was not someone she trusted in the fucking drivers seat.

“Yes. Let’s go.” Dru moved so that she was walking by his side, tucked under his arm and hers around his waist. As soon as they opened the door they were met with the sight of Terran and Dixie on the couch and Larkyn sneaking away with Sapphira to the kitchen. “I-“ Dru wanted to throw something at them and tell Dixie to use her head but right now she did not have the mental capacity to yell at anyone. So instead she took Hunter in the direction of the kitchen to join Sapphira and Larkyn. And to get that food and tea she was promised.

 

[ZombieBaee]

Dixie

A few glasses of wine and some relaxing games was exactly what Dixie needed. This was going much better than the last time they tried to do this, maybe it was the switch from whiskey to wine or maybe it was the lack of the other four but either way things were much more calm. Well at least for three out of four of their small group. Terran was… out of sorts. He wasn’t acting funny or anything but the poor guy was definitely tipsy and very very bad at this game. “Terran maybe you should fold? Is folding a thing in this game? I mean- it’s just that you’re holding a LOT of cards.” She chuckled from where she sat besides him, looking over and shaking her head as she watched him try and keep everything organized and manageable.

However suddenly he put his cards down and turned to her with a very serious look in his eye. “Yes? I’m sorry I didn’t mean it like you can’t play! I just thought maybe it would be easier! Oh I know we can pick a new ga-“ Her words fizzled out as his hands touched her face, her face warming from her neck up to the top of her ears. “Terran what are you doing? Hah- this isn’t fun-“ Then his lips were on hers leaving Dixie sitting there stunned.

What was going on? Why was he kissing her? Weren’t Larkyn and Sapphira literally RIGHT THERE? Oh Merlin what should she do? Dixie was a mess of jumbled thoughts for a moment however after a rush of confusion it was like her heart and body took over, leaving her brain out of the conversation. Dixie leaned into the kiss, her arms moving and resting gently on his shoulders, her hands moving to where they crossed over each other at the nape of his neck. It all felt so natural.

FELT. Was the word there. Because cognitively Dixie was still losing her ever loving mind. This was TERRAN. Terran was kissing her. The man that was like her second best friend? The one she totally didn’t think of that way! Well, maybe she did. That was becoming more and more apparent by the second. Dixie had pushed all those little feelings that would pop up down very very low inside herself, she didn’t want to make him sad by being one of those girls who got attached despite him being very clear about not wanting a relationship. Yet here he was, kissing her out of the blue and stealing her first kiss.

Dixie was the one to finally pull away, a gentle gasp for air coming from her lips as she moved back. She didn’t go far, her face was still close enough to his to feel his breath on her cheeks, to see how long his eyelashes were, to smell the faint bit of wine on his breath. “W-why?”

 

[Pax Pardus Hale]

Loire

The icicles were not what she had planned to throw at him, they were a perfect example of her magic having a mind of its own. While Loire knew that Cyrus was a skilled and talented wizard she also didn't anticipate him handling it so well. The swirling, dancing fire reduced the dangerous flying icicles to nothing but puddles of water and for the first time she felt like she could finally relax around someone again. Cyrus had always been her safety and comfort but after her ice magic reared its ugly head she put up her guard even with him. The fear of hurting him outweighed every rational cell in her body, she didn't even think about his fire powers being able to help her.

After watching them she couldn't move for a minute, she just stood there completely bewildered and blinking at the water puddles. All these years, all these issues reduced to a puddle on the ground. Where the fuck did he learn that trick? Before she knew it Cyrus was in front of her and pushing her wand arm down and bringing her back to reality. Quickly she pocketed it once more just in time for him to brush some of her snow white hair off her cheek and she felt as if her heart would burst out of her chest. Only he had this effect on her and it drove her crazy.

He began to ramble on like he usually did and all she could do was crack a small smile. Quickly she touched his cheek with her warm hand and she leaned up to press her lips to his for a long moment. "You're the only person I want a life with, Cyrus. I won't hide anymore, and I'll start communicating a little better. And I promise I'll chase after you next time. Just promise not to leave again?" Her big blue eyes looked up into his with a weak smile, her pale hand falling from his face to lace her fingers together with his.

"Come on." Ah, there. Bossy Loire was back. With a small burst of energy she headed out of the barn and went back towards the house. "I'll consider getting some rest." They walked into the kitchen door to see everyone there, well, save for two of them. "Are we going to hold hands and sing kumbaya or something?" The kitchen was way too small for the lot of them. Still holding Cyrus's hand she peeked into the living room to see Terran and Dixie locking lips. Welp. She couldn't go lay down now, could she? Now what?

Suddenly the door in the living room burst open and in walked a woman with bags, a large dress bag, a bunch of flowers. It was surprising how much shit she had packed in her arms, honestly. "Dru that's your sister, isn't it?" Loire had the displeasure to meet the crazy woman a time or two. Great, there went their chance at a relaxing evening.

 

[Pax Pardus Hale]

Sapphira

Why couldn't they all just live their lives according to what they wanted? Her parents could easily accept her and her magical lifestyle, Larkyn and Dru's parents could understand that they didn't want to get married. Same with Hunter and Loire! Why wasn't it enough to be their true, authentic selves? It killed her inside as Larkyn explained everything, for him and Dru. A parent to blackball their daughter's career just because of who she married... sounded like her parents would fit into the jackass parent club they had going on here.

Larkyn spoke of her staying here as a professor and she couldn't help but heavily contemplate it. A life with her best friend, a life with Larkyn- No, no. They couldn't be with each other if he was married. They could be friends? Before she knew it they were being roped into playing Uno and drinking wine. The wine made her emotions worse and had her head absolutely spin. In order to play the game she was super focused on it, she didn't even notice Terran kiss Dixie, so when Larkyn mouthed to her to leave she was slightly confused. Thankfully he helped her up and into the kitchen. The alcohol had her feeling rather brave, even more so since they were alone.

"You know I'll cheer you on through anything, right? Snow, rain, an arraigned marriage. If you need to do this to protect Dru and there is no other way, then I'll still be here for you." Sapphira smiled sweetly up at Larkyn as her arms slid around his neck for a hug. The man was sweet, thoughtful, and kind to a fault. "I want you to do what will make you happy. I just-, you don't have to be the perfect person all the time. Sometimes in life you might hurt some feelings, but it's healthy to say no sometimes. I guess I'm one to talk though, right?" If she was going to move here then she'd be shunned from the family, and yet if it meant staying here with him then she'd do it. Even if they'd never be more than friends.

As soon as Dru and Hunter entered the kitchen Sapph slowly slipped her arms away from Larkyn. Hopefully he didn't mind that she was a huggy person? Dru looked like she wanted to smack Dixie upside her head (for kissing Terran she assumed), Hunter was beaming from ear to ear, and Cyrus and Loire were now joining them. The family was all back together. Hah... she was leaving one family for another. The thought made her emotional heart hurt. "Oh, Loire it was actually super adorable. We were playing Uno and-"

The door burst open and caused Sapphira to jump back slightly. The woman looked like she robbed a wedding store! Wait, wedding. It took a solid second for her to process that, but as soon as Loire asked about Dru's sister she felt that jealousy feeling bubble up in her stomach again. "How, um, lovely." Sapph clapped her hands together as she tried to perk herself back up. "I'll put a pot of tea on! Yeah. That's what I'll do." Her mood was visibly dampened as she rushed over to put on the kettle on the wood stove.

 

[Colt Voltage]

Terran

Despite being tipsy Terran found his heart soaring. Over the years he had kissed numerous people and at this point it was second nature. He was French, romance was his MO! There was only one explanation to why he felt so giddy over such a beautiful, sweet kiss. When did he let down his guard enough to fall for this sweet lady? He could tell she reciprocated the feelings on some level by the way she was reacting. She was leaning in, her hands moving around his neck and wrapping around him. At this point the man was completely lost in the kiss one hand, one hand fell from her face to gently hold her waist.

In his mind he had completely forgotten about anyone before her, all that mattered now was her. Seeing her happy, seeing her accomplish her goals, and most of all being the person that supported her through the good and bad. Terran wanted to be that person for her. So of course when he was drunk he lost sight of who was in the living room with them, he didn't care that they were playing a game, all he wanted to do was express those feelings to Dixie. This was the only way he knew how to, though. It was time to turn over a new leaf and leave the old Terran behind, it was time to build a better one that was worthy to stand by her side and do all of that.

When she finally pulled away for air he couldn't help but smile bashfully, his cheeks heating up as he looked down at her. She didn't seem to go far and his hand stayed holding her soft cheek, the other still gently touching her waist. Green eyes soaked in her features from the close distance, her cute button nose, her sparkling eyes, and how scarlet her cheeks were. Why indeed, Terran. "I'm falling for you, Dixie." Love was still a strong word that he had never said, and he didn't want to overwhelm her at first. He had already basically jumped her in front of her best friend, that was bad enough. As he spoke he couldn't help but to gaze in her eyes and smile bashfully. In that moment it seemed as if the world melted away from them and they were the only two left.

It seemed that the fates wanted to throw a wrench in his happiness, however. The door flew open and a dark haired woman stormed in with her arms full of the most random shit. Terran let Dixie go so he could turn around and look over the woman, almost instantly recognizing her when he did so. "Oh, fu-- Roxelle?" Great. The woman that was OBSESSED with him for years. Hell, she would still write letters and mail them to his home address. He didn't even know how she got that! Whenever he came home the butler would show him the stack of letters and he would just toss them in the fire. She was a stain he wished to erase from his past.

What was a beautiful moment was quickly turning into something else. "Dixie this is Roxelle. Remember how I told you about Dru's sister?" The insane, clingy one.

 

[Sir Damien]

Hunter

"I actually think you find it endearing how I can always joke no matter the situation." Hunter couldn't stop his smirk grow bigger on his ace as his dark eyes saw her crack a smile. Hold on, fell in love? He heard that right, right? The smirk faltered into a nervous chuckle paired with a nervous smile, his pale hand pushing some of his black hair out of his face. She was blushing too, and she didn't hit him after the kiss. They were moving in the right direction, at least he hoped they were. Hunter didn't care for much but he didn't want to lose her, especially not to fucking Larkyn. The guy was a goody two shoes and Dru needed a little spice in her life. Hunter was the perfect amount of spice!

"Oh, yeah yeah. You know me. Cool as a cucumber." While he didn't like the notion of them proceeding as if nothing has changed the fact of the matter was things HAD changed. He was just happy that things were looking a bit more positive than they were. "I can't promise I won't make a scene if you guys actually do make it to your wedding day. Maybe if I blind your dad temporarily he'll see the light? Just kidding." Kind of? Hunter used to think that arraigned marriages were natural, that everyone he knew growing up went through it and eventually loved their partners. Here he was though with the woman he loved, with the woman who loved him! They shouldn't be forced to marry different people. He would go down swinging if that meant she could live a happy life away from her parents tyranny.

He didn't say much else. His warm arm wrapped around her as they made their way inside the house, though he did pause slightly when he saw Dixie and Terran locking lips. When did they become a thing? Before he could be nosey or pushy though Dru was walking them into the kitchen to see everyone else. Wait, were Sapphira and Larkyn hugging? Was just everyone in relationships or something? No, no. He was just imagining things. Suddenly Sapphira was putting on some tea and that reminded him to get Dru some soup. "Well Sapph's got the tea, I'll get the soup."

Hunter kissed the top of Dru's head before making his way over to grab a bowl. Slowly he ladled some of the hot soup in said bowl before grabbing a spoon and turning back to Dru. That was when the door swung open and Dru's sister stormed inside. "Oh Dru we have so much to go over! The wedding is right around the corner and we need to fit you into your dress, go over flowers, seating arrangement, the list is ENDLESS." The woman didn't even seem to notice Terran, not until she dropped everything in her arms on to the coffee table.

"Well, there went any semblance of a quiet night for any of us." He let out a small sigh and handed Dru her soup. Great. Wedding shit.

 

[ZombieBaee]

Druella “Dru” Arville

They had months to figure out a plan, whether it was just telling their parents no or finding a way to prove her father had nefarious thoughts. They should be able to come up with something by then right? Dru was simply going to just keep telling herself that, maybe it would keep her from going insane. “Oh please do.” Dru laughed at the idea of Hunter causing a scene, hell she could have seen him doing it as some sort of stupid ass stunt like he did back at the benefit just for fun. Now she couldn’t even imagine the sort of scene he would pull. “Just if it gets to that point promise me no more fires. That last show you and Cyrus put on hurt my lungs.”

“Fuck normal tea, I want the tea on that situation out there.” Dru whispered, sitting down and pointing behind her at the two on the couch. Dixie was far too nice of a girl to deal with Terrans fucking games. Dru was fully aware it took two to tango, that her sister was in over her head and overly attached. But still, the way it all went down was just bad for everyone. Terran thought the way he handled things was delicate but in reality it was aloof and cold. His trying so hard to be sweet and neutral made it come off as if Roxie quite literally was just another object, THAT was what really bothered Dru.

Hunter kissed her head and Dru felt her face warm slightly, a slight glare forming as she gave him a look that showed mild embarrassment. Any form of PDA was strange, it wasn’t something her and Larkyn did but for some reason with Hunter it made her giddy. Maybe it was more the person than the act…. Her eyes moved over to Larkyn, slowly taking in him and Sapphira interacting with one another. They liked each other… anyone with eyes could tell. The realization made Dru relieved actually, less guilty. The only problem was that she knew Larkyn was an idiot when it came to feelings so he probably didn’t even notice…

Dru opened her mouth to make a gentle but clear comment when suddenly the door slammed open and a voice rang out that made her heart fall to the fucking basement. “Ro-Rox! What are you doing here?” Dru had a few sisters, none of them were super close due to the vast array of ages but her and Roxelle were the exception. The two sisters were only a year and a half apart in age and had always spent a fair amount of time together up until her swift departure from school to “home schooling”. The short woman got up from the table quickly, moving to the front door to close it and turn to her sister with a timid smile. “H-hey. I’m sorry, I didn’t know anyone even knew I was here? We kind of have a full house… everyone wanted an escape from the school grounds for break.” It was a minor lie but hopefully it would help make this visit swift.

“Mom told me, she literally knows everything it’s absolutely insane how she knows all. Like she has eighteen sets of eyes or something.” Roxie paid near no kind to her sisters clear message of “go fucking home” . It would all be fine! They needed to look at this wedding shut and honestly curiosity was getting the best of her. Roxie spent most of her life cooped up in the house, her parents said it was to make sure she was safe but she knew it was because they wanted to make sure the crazy daughter didn’t do anything to fuck up their reputation. Well more than she had. “Come on Dru! You have to be getting excited and we have SO much shit to do. Plus you’re eating school food now and I’m worried you’ll get fat and not fit into the dress next month.”

Roxie finally looked up from the table and over to her sister, beyond her in the kitchen were some people she vaguely recognized. Larkyn was obvious, Loire too. The others she only kind of remembered from her classes. Then her attention turned to the couch and she saw Terran. And a girl. Oh. No one had told her he was involved in all this. Hah… uh. Terran spoke up and introduced her to the girl, Dixie? Tramp? Same thing right. “Right. Maybe let’s not do this thing where we pretend you’re a good guy okay?”

Drus head was on a fucking swivel. Her sister was as off the wall as fucking normal and then before Dru could catch up her and Terran were interacting and she wanted to pull Roxie outside. “Rox come on! Let’s not do this yeah? Let’s just take the wedding shit upstairs? The girls can come help too? Fun night! Yeah! Woo! Hah… wait a month? The weddings in August why do I need to fit into it in a month.” She reached out and grabbed her sister by the sleeve in an attempt to yank her to the bedroom but the sudden realization of what she had said struck.

“What the hell are you talking about Dru? Mom and dad sent out your invites yesterday. It said January 9th. They have everything booked and ready for the 9th.”

 

[ZombieBaee]

Dixie

Falling for her? The words nearly made Dixie want to faint. Was this just the wine talking or was this really how he felt? Her grass colored eyes searched his for any sign or reason to not believe him but he looked so earnest, so serious. What was it they said? Drunk words are sober thoughts? Lord help her, this man was something else. Dixie knew how great he was, how much he cared about her even if it was just as a friend. She was okay with that because before they even really got to know each other she had placed Terran in a box, one in her mind that reminded her that he didn’t do romantic relationships and she chose to respect that. However now that he was say thing these things… kissing her. It opened a flood gate of feelings. It was all a lot to grasp but even so, Dixie found herself grinning like an idiot.

“What about not doing that sort of thing? You said you don’t get attached. You don’t grow roots.” Dixie was still guarded, afraid to fully let go until she heard his answer to her question. He had told her such a heart wrenching story about a woman who didn’t follow the rules before and Dixie didn’t want it to happen again, either for her or for him. If he backed out now it was just a silly kiss but if they moved forward, if Dixie opened her heart to him and explored something together no matter what it was, she didn’t want to end up heart broken.

Then as if it was thought into existence, the door opened with a bang, bringing a rush of cold air and loud with it. There was a woman standing in the entry way, one that looked like a taller curvier version of Dru. Honestly she was gorgeous, her hair was dark and perfectly styled, her outfit screamed elegance even for how simple it was. Honestly she was like the complete opposite of Dixie.

Dixie had a sinking suspicion who it was, it didn’t require either Terran or Dru speaking up. It was Drus sister, the one from the story. “Oh yes. Nice to meet you.” Suddenly her closeness to Terran felt to warm to handle, whether it was her own feelings or the worry of hurting anyone. Dru and Roxelle went back and forth for a moment but when Terran spoke up again the older Arville sister snapped.

“W-Woah now. That’s not very nice. I mean- were all adults so let’s all just be respectful okay?” Dixie knew they were guests in this house, technically it was Roxie’s just as much as Drus but still. There was no reason to be so harsh right out the gate. “I think maybe working on wedding things in the other room is a great idea! You can have some bonding time. Maybe some snacks! Oh we could run to the village and pick some stuff up for everyone!” Dixie looked over at Terran with a slight twitch in her eye from how rude this woman was. “Right Terran? We could go do that?”

 

[EclipseRosee]

Larkyn

The hug caught him completely off guard, her words even more so. Larkyn wrapped his arms around her waist and pulled her tightly against him. How did she always say the right thing? How was she so kind and understanding? It felt like someone finally knew what he was thinking, what was going on in his head and what battles he was fighting even if they were silently. Sapphira could always respond without even needed to be spoken too. “I know, it doesn’t seem like I know but I do. I just- I have to do this the right way. Once I figure out what the right way is.” Larkyn laughed curtly at himself, his face turning slightly, buried in her fiery hair. “I just want everyone out unscathed and happy. Besides the parents, fuck them at this point.” That might have been the most rebellious thing Larkyn had ever said in his life but he meant it. What was worth making your children miserable? What was the deal they all had with each other? Money? Reputation? Was it worth the suffering they all felt? His parents always tried to convince him that arrangements were normal and that you would love your partner eventually. Now he just believed they didn’t ever feel love, just comfort. Larkyn thought comfort was enough until-

Larkyn pulled away slightly to look down at Sapphira. He felt comfort was enough until her. Until she came into his life clumsily. Falling off brooms and taking it like a champ. Going to quidditch games. Eating an impressive amount of snacks for a woman her size. Taking care of him and forcing him to grow. Making him realize he wanted to take care of her too.

At first he didn’t notice the others walk in, not until Sapphira slipped away from him and turned her attention to the other four who were now here. The others were talking about Dixie and Terran but Larkyn was looking around the room. Cyrus was grinning like an idiot and Loire looked not angry at everything for once. Dru and Hunter were looking at each other like… like he looked at Sapphira. God this wedding between the two of them would screw up so much! Larkyn was hell bent on a solution. One that would get him and Deu out without consequences and prove that arranged marriage wasn’t needed so Loire could follow suit… it was a longshot but Larkyn wasn’t one to shy away from a challenge.

Unless that challenge was Roxie. That woman was bat shit crazy. And not just because of the Terran shit! No if people thought Dru was harsh and mean, Roxie was that times 10. The woman was blunt and crude. “You got that right.” Larkyn groaned in agreement with Hunter, watching as Dru ran to try and keep things calm. Seemed like that was going awfully. Larkyn looked back at Sapphira who was making more tea and sighed, “If you’re worried about the dress fitting then maybe we should just call the whole thing off.” He said it jokingly with a smile but he fucking meant it. Larkyn headed over to the woman and took her hand, giving it a quick kiss before offering to take her coat. She had already snapped at Terran and honestly Larkyn was preparing for worse..

“Dixie that sounds like a great idea. How about - wait.” Larkyn listened as she responded to Dru and he felt genuine anger start to swell. They moved the wedding date? No one told either of them? “We can’t even do January 9th. That’s right in the middle of this whole punishment thing. It’s hard enough to get time off to run over to the village, I highly doubt they’ll agree to a whole wedding!”

 

[KAYDEN]

Cyrus

“Hah. Where am I supposed to go? I’m actively homeless yet in house arrest and have no other friends or family.” Cyrus’ words were self deprecating and kind of cold but the smile on his face told it all. That was the type of people the two of them were. Plus at this point he just had to laugh at his life or it was all too fucking depressing. “But yes, I promise. No more running for me either, you’re stuck with me now.” They’re hands intertwined and Cyrus felt himself actually getting excited for once? Hearing Loire actually say she wanted a life with him felt like a dream. It was a dream. It was pretty much the only thing he ever wished for beyond a functioning family or his mother to be back… it was almost surreal that it was happening.

“Yes ma’am.” Cyrus laughed, “But no consideration, either you rest or I sell you out to everyone and you know how Larkyn gets. Though something tells me Dixie would be more intense about you being sick than your dear brother.”

The two joined everyone else in the house and quickly found their way to the kitchen with the other onlookers. Did someone brew amorentia or something? What the fuck was going on? Then just to ADD to the wtf, Drus sister was here? As if the house wasn’t crowded enough. “Looks like someone’s sleeping in the barn boys.”

 

[Pax Pardus Hale]

Loire

There was far too much tension in the house for Loire, thankfully she was sick and had an out. Larkyn seemed... preoccupied with this short notice on the wedding. There was nothing Loire could do or help with while she was sick so, she took Cyrus with her back to campus so she could recover for the next few days. That was technically the place he was house arrested to, and honestly Larkyn didn't seem to object much. Traveling via the fireplace again they went home to the animals, the infirmary, and peace and quiet.

The next couple days were nice? Well, besides the stern lecture the nurse repeatedly gave her. Recovering from any type of sickness was awful but with Cyrus there it was at least tolerable. Day one she rested and they played cards, day two her fever broke and she was up making Cyrus train with her. For the first time in years they could just relax. While it was sad that Cyrus's dad did what he did she could see the weight was off his shoulders finally, he was smiling more and acting more like his old self. All she could say was good riddance, fuck that guy. And now Loire didn't have to feel so guarded! Her big secret was finally out in the open and he was even willing to help her. She was going to tell her family where they could shove the wedding with Hunter, what more could they have asked for?

"I’m betting Larkyn snapping on someone. My twin senses are tingling, he's pissed." Loire gave a small sigh as they prepared themselves to go check in on everyone. Despite training for the past few days she found that her magic was indeed not as easy to control as she anticipated. Once upon a time Loire was a gifted witch that could rival even her powerful father. This ice shit had a mind of its own. She went to block and she'd attack, she tried to attack and it would shoot off in a random direction. It was discouraging, but at least Cyrus seemed positive that they'd figure it out.

"Oh. Seeing as that once the school year is up you'll be actively homeless I insist you stay with us. That was the whole reason we got the third bedroom." The twins always anticipated that Cyrus would come live with them, but after he ran off that room just became a guest room. Loire didn't like guests though, so the room sat ready but unoccupied. "I'm sure if you get lonely though Larkyn will let you crawl in bed with him." With a small playful smirk she readied the fireplace for travel. "Though if Larkyn and I do get out of these marriages I'm sure father will be royally pissed and might give us the boot. One thing at a time. Ready to go?"

However just before Loire entered the fireplace she leaned up to press her lips to Cyrus's cheek. "Thanks. For everything." Not just the past ew days but, just, everything. With that said she stepped into the fireplace to travel to the cottage. "Are there any casualties yet or are you all still alive?"

 

[Pax Pardus Hale]

Sapphira

Roxie came bearing news that felt like a punch to the gut. It was already enough trouble coming up with a plan in the time they thought they had. Now? Now they had a month! Hah. Maybe they were all silly to think that they could get out of this. He was such a good person that he would never hurt Dru, even if it meant sacrificing his own happiness! For the first time Sapphira couldn’t find the bright side of things. They’d lose everything they’ve been working for, wouldn’t they?

Larkyn seemed mad, he also seemed certain that they wouldn’t be able to get the time off. She… tried her best to remain positive for both him and Dru, but it was becoming harder day by day. Roxie dragged Sapph into wedding planning (despite insisting that she would NOT be very helpful), Dixie and Terran did their best to avoid them, and Dru and Larkyn were off finding out ways to get out of it. So Sapph did what she could to cheer everyone up, she made teas and had snacks (that Terran and Dixie fetched), and she tried to give everyone encouraging smiles. She just wished that she felt positive that things would be all right.

Here they were several days later and Sapph found herself mindlessly sweeping the kitchen with a pot of tea on the stove. Larkyn and Dru were due home at any moment now, he seemed so sure that today would give them more than a month. All she could do right now was hope that he was right. “Oh, Loire.” With a small smile she peeked through the doorway at the familiar face. Lucky her to have gotten out of the tense house. The messy bunned red head then leaned against the broom with a small sigh. “No casualties as of now. Larkyn and Dru are talking to their parents so things may change. Is today the day we head back?” As if she wasn’t counting the days until she was away from Roxie.

 

[ZombieBaee]

Druella “Dru” Arville

Dru was an adult despite the way her parents made her feel, they made her feel small and young and naive. Her and Larkyn went to them and begged, first to postpone the wedding indefinitely then just at least until the original date! Nothing. Her father simply got outrageously angry and her mother tried her best to play middle ground as usual. It was clear her father wasn’t going to bend at all, but maybe Larkyns parents could help. So off he went, heading home to try and talk some sense into at least one party. Dru however stayed home for a night, avoiding her father of course, but maybe just maybe she could get something out of her mother.

Dru’s mother was much younger than her father, the two had about a 10 year age gap. So despite Dru being the youngest at 24, her mother was only in her early fifties. She was a bit more understanding than her husband, she was closer with her children and kinder, at least when he wasn’t around. So Dru cornered her. She needed to know, why was this so important? Why was she the ONLY of the sisters to have an arranged marriage? Her mothers final answer to that question was they they knew Dru would need someone trustworthy to protect her secret… it was an answer that sufficed all of ten minutes before Dru realized the flaw. Her and Larkyn had been engaged since well before Dru found out about her powers… which would mean her parents knew about something being wrong well before they let the cat out of the bag.

That led to more questions , ones that her mother seemed ever more hesitant to answer. It wasn’t until Dru finally broke down herself that her mother finally opened up. Dru was the product of an affair… one her mother had while she was away visiting family in London. A fling her mother had, someone that she was ready to run away with, a man that gave her that water mill as their hideaway. It hadn’t been in her family forever, it had been in his! Well hell apparently that was her family… Dru had had suspicions ever since her meeting with Loires contact but hearing it straight from her mouth was a whole other thing.

Her mother didn’t know all the reasons her father was so adamant about this wedding but… two of them were protecting the families reputation from her mothers adultery and protecting Dru from her secrets getting out. The rest was unspoken between the two of them but what Dru was able to gather was, there was no way in hell her father would drop it.

Dru met with Larkyn after his unsuccessful attempt at getting his parents on his side and told him everything she learned. At this point it seemed nothing was stopping this wedding short of death or completely throwing away her life. Great.

“Me if someone does the honors and puts me out of my misery.” Dru spoke up from where her and Larkyn appeared in the doorway, having apparated in shortly before Loires mention of casualties. “Well or if Roxie killed anyone yet, I wouldn’t put it past her.” Dru was exhausted, heading to the love seat and tossing herself down on it dramatically.

 

[ZombieBaee]

Dixie

“If you really think you’re going to be the last girl he gets to swoon over him, then I feel insanely bad for you.” Roxie was over it, it had been days of watching the two of them act all cute and happy. Watching Terran open doors for her and say sweet things. Watching her smile and laugh. It was all so fucking aggravating. Plus Dru wasn’t even here to vent to! She was bound to pop eventually! And now Roxie had her moment, it was a rare time when Dixie wasn’t attached to Terran and Roxie found her in the small office and blocked her way out of the room by leaning in the doorway. “I bet he named you after a flower right? Made you feel jjst as beautiful as one? When in reality it’s his little trick to not mix up girls names. I bet he tells you all about how beautiful and amazing you are, how no other girl has ever been so great. But look at you.” She gestured up and down Dixie, taking in her larger curves and frumpy clothing. “I mean honestly, you’ve seen the types of girls he’s been with and you really think he’s into that?”

Dixie was sure that Dru’s sister was a nice lady, she was just hurt and broken. That sort of thing did things go peoples minds and hearts. Dixie had done her best the last week to avoid her, keeping her and Terran apart to avoid anyone lashing out at one another. But it just wasn’t that easy in the tiny house. When they did unfortunately all have to share space she tried to be low key and invisible but Terran wasn’t that guy. He was always making her laugh and smile and blush. Even when Dixie told him to stop! Honestly it seemed like he did it more!

Thankfully today was the last day of this mess and they could get away and get back to SPACE. Dixie was moving around the mill and cleaning up, making the beds and making sure no one left anything behind. That was when she found herself cornered in the office by Roxie.

“W-whoa now. Come on Roxie just let me go.” Dixie didn’t want to listen to this, it was mean. It hurt. Hurt people hurt people was all that Dixie kept repeating in her mind but it wasn’t helping. She trusted Terran but she had to admit that what Roxie was saying made her worry, that little bit of self doubt was quickly growing. Roxie was right but… Dixie knew all that. Terran hadn’t tried to hide it and he has been honest! “Roxie I don’t think you’re being very fair, people change.”

Then she started in on Dixie’s appearance and she crumbled, any chance of fighting back was gone as she looked down at herself. Dixie was curvy, she had wide hips and thick thighs, she had a tiny little belly that she was a little self conscious about. She had never fit in with the stick thin women back at home, even worse with the athletic ones at school or the popular pure blood girls who always looked amazing. She wore clothes that a lot would imagine on their grandmas… most of the time her hair was wild. The more she thought about it there was a lot to be desired about her. “I just want to get packed okay? Please leave me alone…”

 

[KAYDEN]

Cyrus

Cyrus didn’t want to use the word thankful for how he felt about Loire being sick but… he sort of was. It gave them a reason to get away from all the bullshit going on at the mill and be by themselves for a little while. Larkyn was so caught up in the wedding that Cyrus was a low priority on his list so he was able to go with Loire back to campus and help her get better. The two of them spent the few days doing close to nothing and honestly it was amazing. They trained a bit sure but besides that, they could just relax. There was no yelling or crying or huge dramatic issue going on. It was almost hard to believe it all was real.

“I’m not even his twin and I can tell you he’s already snapped at least 8 times today. He never liked Roxie. Plus the poor dude is even more emotionally confused than I was.” Cyrus chucked as he and Loire prepared to travel through the fireplace. His hand reaching over and taking hers when she mentioned moving in with them and his face mirrored the shock he was feeling. I mean obviously they were doing better,, getting closer once again and at one point that had been the plan but for some reason he assumed that ship had sailed. That they filled that room with boxes or turned it into a study or something. “I would really like that.”

Cyrus smiled down at Loire, his face reddening when she kissed his cheek. “No need to thank me, it’s my job now yeah?” His hand squeezed hers and then the two were off, finding themselves back at the mill with… no noise? Oh lord maybe everyone was dead.

 

[Colt Voltage]

Terran

Finally it was the last day. The last day of Hell— no more tension, no more Roxie. Terran did his best to keep Dixie away from her but in the mill they were all on top of each other. Most of the days they would run to the village and take their sweet time coming back, or at least wait until Dru was home to wrangle in her sister. Roxie was, well, to put it plainly, was a bitch. She had a nasty attitude when she didn’t get her way and that was obvious in the way she was treating Dixie. It was disgusting. She was a spoiled fucking brat to put it nicely.

Today Dru and Larkyn were gone yet again and Terran insisted Dixie join him in the village for one last trip. With so many people there they had went through most of the cleaning products and Terran felt as if it would be rude to leave things like that. Dixie wanted to put the mill back together though and he understood why. She seemed confident that Roxie was a good person and nothing would happen. Maybe she was right? He promised he’d be back quick, pecked her forehead, and made his way to the village.

He made sure he wasn’t gone very long. Quickly he kicked off his boots as he made his way inside, his green eyes instantly noticing Roxie standing in the doorway. Shit. As he made his way over he could hear the things she was saying. For the first time ever Terran felt something stirring up inside. Anger? His tan face became almost red with fury as he struggled to find the words. All civility was out the door at this point. “Contrary to popular believe Roxie, I’m attracted to personalities. Remember? That’s why I didn’t like you. Your attitude is disgusting, and it’s a shame you’re still clinging to something that’ll never happen.”

Terran shouldered his way through past Roxie to stand by Dixie’s side. As Roxie did a moment ago he motioned to Dixie with a gentle smile. “This is the most beautiful woman I’ve ever met. She’s kind to even the undeserving, she has the most gentle soul. Every student is her family, so are her friends. She stretches herself thin even when she shouldn’t just to make people happy. Her smile lights up my world, and I could just get lost in her eyes.” Even her fucking accent was cute. “Her style is quirky, and cute. She’s not like you or the other mistakes I’ve made in the past. I love her. I hope you can move on one day and find a true, genuine connection someday, but putting others down to make yourself feel better is NOT the way.”

It wasn’t like Terran to get so fiery and passionate about something or someone. With a deep, calming breath he gently took Dixie’s hand into his large warm one. “Let’s go home, yeah?”

 

[Sir Damien]

Hunter

“Now there’s an idea, faking a death. Larkyn you want to have the honors? No real death though.” Hunter didn’t even need a second to come back with something snarky. Being stuck in the house with this lot was EXHAUSTING and somehow lonely at the same time? All his friends were gone, Dru was gone and he was stuck listening to Roxie bitch and moan and talk wedding plans with Sapphira. So, so boring. He had been catching up with Dru via letters while she was gone and to put it plainly he was anxious for her return. She was going through so much shit. The product of an affair, her mom knew she’d be like this! “Sapph’s been playing defense with Roxie to try to keep her out of trouble, but it’s been close a couple times.”

As he jumped to his feet from the couch he placed the book on the table. With a small smile he walked over to Dru on the loveseat, sitting on the arm and patting her head gently. “Hey there champ, way to hang in there. We’ll find a way, ‘Kay?” Leave it to Hunter to be a cocky, confident asshole. He was positive that they’d find a way to get out of this! He had to be. THEY had to be. If they gave up Dru and Larkyn would be waltzing down the aisle and getting married and Hunter would be damned if that happened.

“I’m sorry it didn’t go the way we wanted but there’s always a way, all right? Im just happy you got some answers.” While they could be super negative about things they could also look at the positive? They could figure out who her real dad was and get her some answers. Hopefully after they get this wedding canceled. “We could also get you sick your wedding day? No one would make you walk down the aisle. I’ve been alone for days and I’be had nothing but time to think of options.”

 

[Pax Pardus Hale]

Loire

Why did it give her butterflies when he agreed with him moving in? It was so stupid. This was the plan for years, since they were in school even. With how things were between them now she felt giddy about seeing him every day again. Part of Loire was still terrified she’d wake up and he’d be gone; she knew he promised to stay around but she also never anticipated he’d abandon her in the first place. And then he squeezed her hand and the butterflies turned to pterodactyls. What the hell did he mean it was his job now?

As hard as it was to believe, Loire wasn’t a romantic person. She never dreamed of a wedding, never dreamed of having a partner. She wanted to dominate the world of magic and be the best of the best and relationships in any form were not a priority. Cyrus was the exception, he was her only friend and she had absolutely no clue what it was like to be in a relationship with someone. Just the thought of something so trivial had her sweating, it was ridiculously embarrassing. “I-, um, what did you mean it’s your job now?” Quietly Loire whispered to Cyrus before Dru and Larkyn appeared.

Loire felt for Larkyn, she really did. He was her twin, and even if they were polar opposites she wanted nothing but his happiness. “While I’m sure you all are having the time of your lives it’s time to go back to campus. From the looks on your face meeting with our parents was as fruitless as ever?” With a small smile she looked up at her brother and pat him on his shoulder. “I could cause a scene and make it flashy. If I scare everyone out of the wedding then there’s no wedding, right? If they disowned me for that that’d be a win-win.”

 

[Pax Pardus Hale]

Sapphira

“Oh, welcome back guys.” Despite her best effort at a cheerful smile Sapph could see the disappointment on everyone’s face, especially on Larkyn’s. Positive Sapphira, think positive. They said they’d find a way, they couldn’t lose faith in that! Dru instantly crashed into the loveseat and quickly she scampered over to Larkyn’s side in hopes of cheering him up. Getting them out of this was completely out of her hands, but she could at least be there for them. “Hey, at least we can go back home and figure out what to do next.” Seeing the sadness on his face she felt so awful. Why did parents want their children to suffer like this? Hers were no different. All she wanted to do was hug him!

Just as she moved to do just that she froze as Loire approached. Awkward. The only thing she could think to do was cut his face gently in her hands and give him her warm, bright smile. “We’ll figure this out.” Her fingers lingered on his cheeks for a long moment before her face lit up as red as her fiery hair. “I mean even if it does happen I’ve made the decision to stick around. Things here are obviously a hot mess and I’ll do my best to help you.” Would that help lift his spirits? Maybe not, but it was all she could think to do. Quickly her hands moved from his face and tucked into the pockets of her red cardigan.

 

[ZombieBaee]

Dixie

Oh. It was all Dixie could think as Terran made his way into the room, standing by her side and sticking up for her. He was saying such sweet things, things that made her tear up more. Part of her was wanting to tell him to stop, to spare Roxie’s feelings and not to be so mean but… the other half was going to be selfish and soak it all in. This was the most compliments she had ever gotten in her life. No one called her beautiful, if she did get compliments about her appearance they were gross and made her feel icky. This was different, this made her heart swell. But even more than the compliments on her appearance he spoke so kindly about her as a person… Dixie felt stupid for having any doubts about him.

Then Terran let the love word fly and Dixie nearly fainted. That was a bit fast yeah? Right? Hahah… haha. Oh god Dixie felt warm.

Terran took her hand and Dixie found herself too stunned to speak and just followed him out of the room, barely glancing at Roxie as she stood stunned into silence. “We should get going. I- I don’t want to be around when she starts moving again.” She pulled him along impatiently, heading toward the fireplace and living room where it seemed all the others were gathering. At this point she just wanted to get back to campus, she wanted space and some time to be away from other eyes with Terran. “You know guys? I think we’ll head back and make sure the house is in order and maybe get some decorations set up? Yeah?” Dixie was nervous, both because of the pure crazy she felt rolling off of the woman in the other room and because of Terrans words. Without waiting Dixie grabbed her bag and some floo power and stepping into the green flame, yanking along Terran with her and before she knew it they were back at the house.

Once back Dixie stepped forward, the house was quiet but comfortable. Much more comfortable than the place they had just been. “Sorry I kind of yanked you around… I just couldn’t be in that house anymore. And -“ Dixie turned around and looked up at him, her face bright red. “I wanted two seconds alone with you. I- thank you for standing up for me. You’re amazing.” She was sure it wouldn’t be long before the others joined them so Dixie took advantage of the few moments, leaning up and pressing her lips to his for a short moment before pulling back. “I love you too.”

 

[ZombieBaee]

Druella “Dru” Arville

Maybe faking her own death was a good idea at this point, hell maybe even real death. Was her dream worth all this? Was professional success worth so much to her that she put up with all this other shit? The lying, the scheming, the danger? No… it wasn’t just a job. It was the prospect. Dru had worked towards a job in the ministry since she was twelve years old, she wholly believed she could change the world for the better. She still did… even more so now with realizing how twisted everything was. A lot of people looked at her as a selfish and cruel rich girl but the reality was that Dru was ready to throw herself on the fire to try and make life better for everyone.

Hunter found his way over to her and the small pat on her head was the most comforting thing in the world. At this point all she wanted was to go home and have a good Christmas Eve with everyone. She wanted to go back to the house and let everyone just- be. Be themselves, don’t care about who’s watching. It was so strange to realize that she thought of these people as her home now. Laughable really.

In the other room she could hear the situation between Dixie and her sister. “Roxie just go home.” Dru did not want to deal with another headache right now. She sat up on the couch as Terran and Dixie moved past everyone and to the fireplace. She leaned against Hunter slightly where he sat. She felt for her sister, but she also knew this was mostly on her… she now knew how messy love was but whatever her and Terran had? It was never love. “Please Rox, we’re all about to head back to campus and … this wasn’t good for you. Just go home.” Her sister turned and looked at her, tears streaming down her face and anger written in her features. Then she suddenly apparated away without a word.

“I fucking hate everything.” Dru melted into Hunters arms at that point. She was done. Over it. Cashed out. Who cared what anyone else thought in this room. “Can we just get home and try and have a nice Christmas Eve? Just- us. All of us. Being real. I even already paid for food to be delivered. Gifts should be there already. I even heard there’s a big snowstorm coming. What a merry fucking Christmas right before everything turns to shit right?”

 

[KAYDEN]

Larkyn

The group all headed home after the small blow up between Roxie and Terran. Dru was correct, after all the things they went through they should try and have a nice holiday. They were supposed to all get closer and relax on the trip that Larkyn sort of tricked everyone into but… it was so stressful. Though he did have to admit that maybe Roxie being so fucking abrasive and hard to deal with made it easier for them all to get along.

The house was decorated… poorly. It wasn’t surprising considering they did a rush job and most of them weren’t exactly in the holiday spirit until the end of it. Dru had paid off a wizard courier to literally go to Thailand and bring them all back food from a restaurant there she liked. Now they were all sitting around the coffee table in the living room and eating the food in pajamas. They had cards scattered around and honestly despite everything, it was kind of nice. Music was playing from the insanely old gramophone with some dusty records they had found.

Larkyn jumped up from his sport on the couch, reaching out to Sapphira on the floor. “Want to see something cool?” Dru was right. They should let themselves enjoy this especially with everything happening. He helped her stand and then led her to the back door, wrapping a jacket around her and waiting for her to put on some shoes before heading outside. Larkyn pulled out his wand and pointed it towards the insane amount of snow that was falling, soon it was joined by raindrops that turned to glittering balls of ice thanks to the cold, falling into the snow like perfect little pieces of hail. It wasn’t often that Larkyn used his water magic for anything silly but…

“So you’re going to stay yeah? I wanted to talk to you earlier but… it was a little hectic. I- I honestly kind of thought I imagined it. That it would be too good to be true.”

 

[Pax Pardus Hale]

Sapphira

Christmas had always been Sapphira’s favorite holiday. Back home with her family they always held a huge party so her father could schmooze over the clients on the eve of Christmas. Christmas Day, however, was a small family affair. Church in the mornings, gifts after and then a nice dinner where everyone got along for once a year. Despite all of the tension happening in their lives she hoped that they could just have a nice day filled with memories.

Dru made sure that they had good food, and even if the decorations weren’t spectacular at least they had each other and good health. They had games, music, great company. AND it was a white Christmas! What more could they ask for? “Something cool? Oh, uh, sure!” Larkyn seemed almost giddy when he jumped up so she couldn’t help but smile sweetly and find herself curious. She really wasn’t dressed to go outside, she had on a forest green silky long sleeved pajama top with matching shorts. Luckily her boots and coat were soft and cozy on the inside. Having Larkyn help her in the coat was enough to make her cheeks flush though.

Why was he pulling out his wand? Before she could inquire he was making rain mix in with the snow. The raindrops turned into beautifully sparkling hail that mixed in with the heavy snow and she stared in awe. It already wasn’t often she seen Larkyn his magic, but seeing him do it to make something like this for just the two of them? It made her cheeks warm and her heart skip a beat. “Oh, how pretty!” Gently Sapphira reached next to her to lace her fingers together with his free hand.

However at the mention of her staying made her look away with embarrassment. She didn’t anticipate him being this happy about it. “I just think that you inspired me. You’re going against your family’s wishes and doing what’s best for you. I want to live for myself for once. I don’t want to leave you.” That, that just blurted out without her permission. Pale cheeks lit up as red as her hair and she moved to lean slightly against him. It was cold so this was fine, right? “Plus, I think you’d get lonely without me. Just a month without me and you were so cranky. Imagine if I was gone for good.” Sapph couldn’t help but smile sadly to herself at the thought. "Oh! Wait here for just one minute."

Sapphira ran inside past the others to grab a red poinsettia paper wrapped box before running back out to Larkyn. She had gotten gifts for everyone, but this one she didn't want everyone to see. It wasn't something expensive like she got everyone else and it was more personal, at least to her? She hoped he liked it. "Merry Christmas!" With a bright smile the bubble red headed woman handed him the box. Inside held a leather bound Adventure Book with pages and pages of blank pages. Some had the great wonders of the world as their go-to's, but most of them were blank so they could fill up with stories and pictures. "You're awfully hard to shop for, so I made this. T-The gift isn't just the book, kind of a promise to take you to see the world? Does that make sense?" Hopefully she didn't look like a total idiot giving him something like this.