Realistic or Modern Spellbound

[Soliloquy]

The surveillance wasn't exactly something they had done before, per se, but there was a bit of an investigator in every woman, or so Ciara felt. Particularly those who had gut feelings. While Angela might have had quite a bit of technology in her hands, she personally knew a couple of Mundies from growing up that could dig up the most insane amount of dirty on just a first name in social media. All the more reason men were idiots to think they'd get away with anything.

As they came to a stop, she followed Angela's notation and nodded about the bedrooms. Buildings like those often had a loft above for either owners or just to be rented out for extra cash. Or apparently for stowing away your side chick after your girlfriend wasn't looking. Absolutely pigs. Digging in her purse, she pulled out a pair of over-sized round sunglasses and and a thin black pouch; the first slipped on while the second was tucked in the front of her shirt. "You know I am, Gelly bean," she said with brows perking up over her glasses.

Abandoning the car, she led the way walking right past the front door and around to the back side of the pub. Feigning that she was looking for an hours sign or something but in reality confirming there were no security cameras, she gave the handle the smallest tug to confirm it was also locked. The thin pouch was tugged out and unraveled, snatching two appropriately sized tools and within a few seconds they heard the soft click of the lock caving to the tools. Turns out that couple of weeks she'd spent with the little blonde master thief in Sri Lanka was paying off. Opening the door, she nodded for Angela to go first, a bit excited from all their detective work.

 

[xrakkax]

“Nice touch.” Angela’s mouth bowed in approval. “And damn good line.” She had to give it to her friend, she had flare. Speaking of, Angela pulled out her own sunglasses. There was no way they could do this without matching now.

While Ciara worked her skills Angela scanned the area. As soon as the door opened and Ciara gestured for her to go, Angela padded inside, head low. They sneaked like ninja’s-- like Hunters--in through the back kitchen door. They did not see the curious squirrel sitting by its next on the tree nearby stare at them as they did so.

Upon entering the empty kitchen they saw how clean it was and how fresh it smelled. As if it hadn’t been used a day since its installation. A few personal touches here and there were the only indications that people had used it for cooking. Evidence of a dog bowl, and meat trough beside it. Then there was a huge glass atrium tank built into the wall that divided the kitchen from the main area of the restaurant. A boa as large as a man sat curled in comfort. The head was probably buried in its rope of a body. A picture of Molly taped to the vent above the grills caught her eye.

That better not be for show, Angela thought venomously. They tip-toed past the large freeze to the door between connecting to the main area. Being on the correct side, all they had to do here was unlatch the bolt.

Carefully Angela cracked it open. While before the sound of talking had been muffled, now they heard clearly what was being said. It took a moment to realize who was who, and they noticed a few other voices. The names to those voices helped track the conversation. And thanks to the Lithe suit Angela wore, she was able to fill Ciara in on any foreign words.

Theo, Micha, and the two women they bumped into were easy to match to the voices. Alongside those were two other women speaking. One was a vet, apparently. The other cooked alongside Micha. A sister, it seemed. Overall Angela and Ciara had come to find out that these girls were really just visiting friends, before the family went ‘Moon-Fishing’, whatever the hell that was, and went on asking how their date went with their lovers. Theo had much to say in praise over Willow; her kindness, her beauty. When the women asked about Molly’s hands. They seemed a little. . .thick.

Micha’s voice answered “Ah, my Mollyshka. Yes, her hands are as manly as they say.” He admitted, “But is not problem.” He said.

Angela began to feel silly eavesdropping on someone's conversation. But hey, they got some info right? Just as Angela motioned for Ciara that they should go, the conversation shifted.

“Ever gonna tell ‘em whatcha are?” Moira’s accent was easy to pick out.

That phrase. It was the kind of thing you didn’t hear unless something was up. Angela eased back into eavesdropping position.

“Da, we hope to do on camping trip.” Theo said.

The gently worried voice of Alassiel said, “Oh I do hope it works out. I hear so much about Willow. She seems like a good girl.”

Another voice, Natalias, said, “I think she will.” She hesitated. “I’m not sure about Molly.”

In defense, Amalia spoke here, “Molly is love Micha. I do not believe she would easily abandon just because we Almaeri.”

Angela’s eyes popped open. Looks like they found out more than they bargained. She and Ciara shared a look. They were not prepared. As good as they looked, they had none of their usual equipment with them. They had to get out. They had to tell Wesley and Everest!

 

[Soliloquy]

There were probably a few indicators that neither of the two girls were often in the field. They might have seen a few a few detective shows or read Nancy Drew when they were younger, but they certainly weren't being the most observant. While neither felt it necessary to bring in any weapons when just tailing a pair of cheatin' hoes, there was little doubt when things might have turned that other famed Hunters would never be found without at least one good weapon on them.

As it stood, Ciara covered Angela's behind for strategic purposes - not at all for the view - slowly closing the door behind them as they crept through the kitchen. It wasn't anything too special, that was until she saw the boa. She couldn't hide a shier seeing the snake, not a fan at all of their kind and purposefully taking up a spot as far from it's tank as she could manage.

Personally, she was growing less enticed as the conversations slipped past. She'd been hoping to hear a full-out session going on that they'd be able to take back to Angela's employer and pass on to the Crosse family. Instead, they were getting...hand comparisons? That was useless. They'd moved to leave just as their interests were piqued again. Bending her head toward the door to hear as well as she could, Ciara's eyes suddenly grew at a word they both knew all too well. Well, fuck the only thing worse than a cheater had to be a mage.

"Shit," she mouthed, aligned with Angela's thoughts no doubt. Quietly, she rose back to her feet, prepared to ease their way out of the kitchen, get to the car and at a safe distance, call in assistance from whichever hunters were in the area. They had to have at least six mages right under their nose, otherwise Amalia wouldn't have used that term. She nodded toward the door before turning on her heel to leave.

 

[xrakkax]

To their credit, though not quite trained for the field, neither of them yelped when they turned to see Jovan standing, looking down at them with crossed arms. The door behind him shut noisily. The look in his eyes told them he did not find their presence surprising. Not in the least.

Angela felt her stomach twist. Her face drained. One man or not, a mage was a mage. She reached reflexively to grab Ciara’s hand. Odds were that the people out front were still unaware. And maybe with the Lithe they had a chance. A quick shared glance communicated all her thoughts to Ciara. Jovan barely opened his mouth to speak when Angela shoved the door open, pulled Ciara close, and kicked hard against the floor. The door was a no-go. The window would have to do.

If Jovan had heard the plan, he would have agreed, and what happened following her observation lent to the truth of it. Theo, Micha, and the others, were caught off guard enough that if it hadn’t been for Jovan the girls would have made out the window. Thanks to Wesley’s innovation they would have come away without too many bumps and bruises. However, Jovan did in fact have the advantage of seeing them first. And he wasn’t alone.

In mid-flight, and to Ciara’s horror, a different crash sounded before they were even near the window. A maw of hooked teeth shot out at Ciara’s shoulder. Angela yelped to feel Ciara’s body yanked from her hold. The world spun as the living rope wrangled Ciara to the ground.

Still in motion, and stunned, Angela stared dumbly at her friend, “CIARA!” She screamed. Sudden realization of her trajectory, Angela flicked her arms over her head for impact. But it never came. Angela felt the air thicken. Her chest bowed forward as she pressed against the invisible force. Her arms involuntarily spread like wings. For a blink of an eye she was suspended in the air inches from the window. Her breath fogged the glass a second before she felt a pull jerk her backwards. Her legs swung out, her torso folded forward. If they had meant to kill her, she would have been a splatter of flesh, blood, and bone on the wall behind her. But, Jovan slowed her return. Angela knew without a shadow of a doubt that she had no Almaeri. She could feel the air swirling over her body like many strong hands. Such precise, controlled power. Jovan laid her comfortably beside Ciara.

Everything had happened so quickly, neither Angela nor Ciara had the chance to observe what everyone else had been doing. Now they were still and able to peer around them.

Amalia came around to Avril, to make sure she was allowing Ciara’s blood to flow and that Ciara wasn’t suffocating. Satisfied, she went to Jovan’s side. Theo shut the blinds with a wave of his hand as he walked over. Moira and Alassiel were asked to hold up in the upper rooms, just in case there were more Hunters around. Micha called to Bear to guard them upstairs.

Jovan asked, “What you here for?” A snort of insolence escaped from Amalia. She had a reason or two why Hunters would come. He ignored his niece and asked again, “You,” He nodded to Ciara. “What you come?”

 

[Soliloquy]

Any attempts to escape stealthily were thwarted as Ciara let out a blood-curdling shriek from the impact of the snake. The living embodiment of fear was coiling itself about her and she hit the ground with a loud thud. Her arms were pinned tightly to her chest and she could feel her body beginning to surge in response to the fear. Her heartbeat thudded in her ears as her chest began to heave quickly. She didn't think she was claustrophobic before this, however the thought of your body being crushed to death by a boa was something to put things into perspective.

What happened to Angela was out of her sight, although she automatically had to assume the worst. The moment she caught sight of the mousy brown-haired girl beside her, she breathed a sigh of relief; or at least tried to. She was alive, even though the thought of how easily the snake could tighten a few coils and end her was constantly on her mind as the Russians gathered before her.

The elder man's attention was on Ciara and her mind raced on how to answer. As much as she hated the repulsive mages around her, she also knew that in a group like this they could produce mass damage. Any information they got could easily be turned against her and Angela's friends or family. She couldn't mask the seething despise in her eyes, but she could be mindful of just what she told them.

"Wouldn't you like to know, you filthy mage?" she spat at him. Well, she would have if her body was still capable of producing saliva. As it stood, her retort was more of a wheeze, glaring up at them as she tried to control some of the adrenaline that was seeping through her veins.

 

[xrakkax]

It hadn’t been unexpected. In fact, Theo and Micha were probably the only ones who had hoped to make a connection here. Jovan only took the role of spokesmen. Ciara’s refusal, coupled with the insult, deflected easily off of him and the rest. Well, almost.

“Psh! Это сука.” Amalia kicked Ciara’s leg.

Ciara might not have learned a lot of Russian, but she knew enough of the most important words. "Трахни тебя."

Amalia readied for a stomp instead, muttering more colorful words.

“Don’t touch her!” Angela hissed. The impulse to protect her friend overrode her initial fears.

Jovan rebuked the action, stopping her from continuing. He made Amalia take a step aside. Theo murmured a calming, “Hey, hey,” and put his hand on Amalia’s shoulder. She shrugged it off without apology. Micha sighed in frustration, muttering that Amalia needed to keep a hold on her temper. To prevent any further agitation between Ciara and Amalia, Micha commanded a clean bar rag to wrap around Ciara’s mouth. Natalia felt the others had responded well enough without her input.

Seeing that Angela found her voice, Jovan stepped to her side, “Why you here?”

Closing her eyes, Angela shook her head in silence. There were reasons Ciara didn’t say anything. Reasons with which she agreed. They weren’t trained in the field. They had no idea how to handle a situation like this, and a mage is a mage, like a scorpion is a scorpion. In the end she knew it didn’t matter what they told them. Why would they believe them anyway? They were done.

Sighing deeply, Jovan rubbed his face. “Okay.” He got the hint.

Micha frowned, "What should we do with them?"

"Kill them." Amalia suggested simply.

Jovan shook his head, "No. That's a messy business. It always leaves evidence."

Amalia frowned, "What then? They know what we are, Jovan. We came here because of our new life. What is a life that is spent running and running?"

"We don't need to kill him to handle this situation, Amalia.” Natalia argued. “We only need to make it stop. We can figure this out."

Theo tentatively suggested, "There is Kellsy."

"That is a horrible life. I'd choose death." Amalia’s upper lip perked.

Natalia raised a hand for attention, "There is Aarin." She said simply. "Send them to Aarin."

"Natalia, that's cruel.” Micha murmured.

Theo’s eyes widened, "You can't be serious."

"Leave them to Fate.” Natalia shrugged a shoulder. “If they are meant to live, then they will. At least they won’t be able to find us or tell anyone about us."

Theo shook his head, “There has to be other way.”

“You gonna be first to convince Hunter?” Amalia scoffed, “Feh, I believe piss on my leg to be rain first, before I believe Hunter word. We send them away, or we kill them. That is options.”

“Amalia, we came here to be better--” Theo’s voice hardened, becoming loud.

“You think I not know? You think me heartless? You not the only one who wish to see a new life here, Theo!” Amalia’s tone rose. “Get off high horse! You know you strike anyone down who hurt Willow! You not lie to me, boy, I have seen it!”

“THAT WAS DIFFERENT TIME!” Theo roared.

Amalia matched him, “MAYBE THAT IS WHY OLIVIA IS SHACKLED! BECAUSE YOU SOFT! YOU CAN KILL KELLSY, AND YOU REFUSE!”

Theo’s eyes widened. The low-blow momentarily built up his hurt and rage. But a survey of his cousin’s flutter of regret tempered him. The steam in his head let out slowly, fading his anger into sorrow. The image of Olivia’s grey, soaked body, as the servant of a kelpie who had been denied her own by Theo before, came to mind. Theos shoulders slumped. “Maybe you right.”

Shifting her feet, Amalia exhaled, “No, Theo. . .I’m just angry.” She wiped at her eyes that boiled over with hot tears. She looked down. “We oblige our family to live peacefully while we sit and wait for attack. I hate it. I hate not being myself, I hate losing people. I hate not being born on Earth where I can be normal.” She felt her cousin's arms wrap around her. Micha’s too. Amalia didn’t like being vulnerable. She didn’t hug back, but she did rest her head on his shoulder. “We should not murder. Even if is Kellsy. Even if she trick Olivia.” By rights of the agreement Olivia had submitted to, Kellsy had the authority over her until the contract was ended or she died.

After a long thoughtful pause, Jovan grunted, "Hm. We will send them to Aarin.” He faced the girls and waved a hand over the ropes that held them prisoner.

Angela drew her gaze to Ciara. They didn’t know what it meant to be sent to Aarin. Who is he? Where is he? How is he worse than whoever Kellsy is? Angela’s fearful eyes asked, though she knew no one could, or would, answer.

The women were wide-eyed as they levitated. They had not seen such ease, and without even the slightest of a glow of color either. Ciara and Angela’s bodies followed Jovan down to the basement. “Natalia, I need help.”

“Coming.” Natalia’s footsteps faded as she descended down the stairs.

Ciara and Angela found themselves placed in the middle of the basement. Stacks of gear and bundles of fabric were placed all on one side. The other side housed an elegant mini garden of herbs and fresh fruits and vegetables. Next to it sat a table for mixing. There were vials, rollers, glass containers, and other such items relating to making tinctures and salves.

Angela’s eyes teared as she watched Jovan stand on one side and Natalia to the other. They raised their hands over them. Then they spoke together in a language Angela’s suit couldn’t decipher.

“Nae illia tu ala bava fay La Vela. Aifa.”

The last thing Angela and Ciara on the green Earth was the eerie glow of symbols appearing out of nowhere around them on the ground and a sudden rush through their bodies like wind in the sails of a ship.

Sunday April 8th, 2018 ​

Spring promised fair weather for their camping trip. The night before the family and the girls had stayed over at the pub. All except Lyov, who was being taken cafe of by a the Mc Queen family who decided to stay for longer since Alassiels arrival. Molly had a slight jealous moment with all these women with slender fingers around her. It was also a hard pill to see how many more beautiful women were surrounding her, what with a registered model and Willow being (in Molly's, and other's opinion), and unregistered model. But Micha soothed her and those thoughts fled to his voice and touch.

Molly was happy to take a break from her usual routine with Micha for another mud-mask movie night in the pub! It was fun just to snuggle with Micha.

Theo couldn't agree more. Well, he'd pass on Micha, but he was quite happy to snuggle with Willow again. It would always remind him of Christmas. How he felt that much closer to her. How much he loved waking up to see her next to him, to eat beside her at breakfast, to share little kisses as they packed up the van. Theo loved to hear her hum a tune, and he loved how gentle she was and, he loved-- he loved her.

The realization he hadn't said the three words together came to mind. She hadn't either. Somehow it felt like he stumbled upon a secret that he wanted to reveal first, but it had to be at a great time, so he could point to it when they were old and say, "Hah, remember? I knew, and I said it first."

For right now Theo stacked the last bag in the trunk and turned to Willow with a smile, "Ready? We forget anything?"

 

[Soliloquy]

The week leading up to the camping trip had gone by impossibly fast, or so it felt. Willow had stolen Molly away from Micha long enough to pick up a few things she'd need, knowing that the last time she'd been camping was likely at summer camp. New gear was purchased, although Molly pointed out she probably wouldn't be needing a sleeping bag for herself, in a sing-song and highly suggestive tone. Then adding after a pause, “Well, Theo might. You being Dream Warrior and all.”

The sleepover at the pub was a great way to prepare for the upcoming week they'd spend together, mud masks all around and Willow happily providing home-pedis for all the girls. A promise of professional manicures once they were home to get all the dirt out was made, with a strong look to Granya; yes even she'd be coming. Waking up early to share an early meal felt completely natural.

"Oh, I'm sure we did," she said with a grave tone, leaning against the back of the car and offering a shrug with her prediction. "But, I'm sure we'll only know once we are miles away from civilization and possibly getting chased by a bear." Her solemn face melted into a wide grin as she coiled an arm about his waist, pulling him in for a gentle kiss. "We'll be fine. I think the better question is are you ready to be stuck in the wilderness for me for a week?"

 

[xrakkax]

“Bears?” Theo dismissed the notion with a soft pssh, “They no bears in Texas.” Thank God. Theo took Willow’s hand and they walked around to the van doors. “But Da, I see it go that way.” He chuckled.

It wouldn’t be the first time they had gone on a journey only to find out they left a chunk of their supplies a good half days walk behind them. To be fair, they were only just getting used to living without Almaeri. It was on the tip of Theo’s tongue to say so as they sat down in their seats. Thankfully he caught himself! Relieved he hadn’t ruined the trip before it began, Theo stole a kiss to cover up his foible, and give a reason for the obvious look on his face that he had meant to say or do something in that moment.

Jovan got in the driver's seat. Natalia took shotgun as the navigator and assistant. Right behind Jovan sat Granya with Finn on her lap. That way, if he needed to get outside, she could just slide the window open for him. Next to her sat Amalia with Bear at her side. Behind them, another row of seats accommodated four people. Micha, Molly, Willow, and then Theo who had Bandit sitting on his head. The smallness of the women strategically placed for the most comfort.

As soon as they started off they could feel the weight of their cargo in the sway of the van. On top, they had most of their camping gear. In the trunk, they stuffed their personal bags, Avril, and supplies for the animals. They just couldn’t leave without them. Molly chalked it up to deep affection. The only one who seemed to lack a critter was Jovan.

Once on the highway, Molly asked, “You guys do anything to pass the time?”

“Da, we sing.” Theo chuckled, thinking he’d see a sigh on Molly, but then he remembered who he was dealing with and quickly said, “Or tell stories.”

 

[Soliloquy]

The van was as full as it possibly could have been, both of people and of their packed needs for such a long trip. If they didn't seem to already have it all under control, Willow might have recommend they spread the load out to a second vehicle. As it stood, they seemed to have it down to a science, the extra bags from the girls not making much of a difference.

Willow had to stifle a laugh as Theo caught himself with the offer of singing to hands down their worst in the group. "Stories sound good," she agreed once she could maintain a straight face. "Any horror stories from previous camping trips we should know about?"

 

[xrakkax]

“Da.” Theo chuckled. “We lose Granya.”

“She not lost, she left without telling,” Jovan said to the back. Clearly there was a debate here.

Granya shrunk in her seat, a bit embarrassed, “I look for special stones only found up river.” She murmured in her defense. A thought came to mind. No one else appreciated things like that besides Willow. “Will you come with me? To get the stones? They are so pretty, Willow.” She smiled, hopeful.

Willow's face softened in response, nodding and reaching up to tussle her hair about. "Of course I will," she promised. "Just as long as you don't get us both lost."

“There, Shchenok, you get pebble-partner.” Theo chuckled at his niece's happy smile. She had become more outgoing. The next big test was probably the impending mani-pedi at the mall. She still hadn’t done a thing like that yet.

Molly could do without gem hunting. However, if they could check it out, she’d like to see what they could hunt out there. It was a big park. Or so they said. Micha was up for it. Jovan only did so for practical reasons, so he opted out. Amalia wasn’t about that life, and well, Natalia was literally the opposite.

“Sooooo, what other stories do you got?” Molly grinned. “Any I can use about Micha?”

“Eh, we don’t tell story about camping.” Micha shushed her with a finger to her lips, but immediately regretted it when she tried to bite him. He snapped his finger back. “We tell story. Folk tale.”

Theo scratched his chin, “Is Three Raven. We know Cinderella.”

Micha glanced at Molly and said, “We have Gaia story.” He cleared his throat, ready to dazzle them.

Natalia stopped Micha, “We do not want your stammer the whole story through, Micha. I will tell it.”

Micha meant to protest, but Molly said, “Hon, you do tend to get turned around.” He flurburted her neck in response. Molly laughed, hitting until he stopped. Micha felt satisfied with his gentle revenge.

Natalia spoffed at the two, and called them all to attention, “Two thousand years ago Gaia, the spirit of the world, had grown tired of her face being stomped on. She opened her maw and inhaled. Millions of creatures and people were whirled down her crumbling throat. They fell into the pit of her stomach and sloshed around in the belly of the world.” Natalia’s eyes appeared ominous in the reflection of the windshield.

Thus the tale began. In it Natalia talked of creatures of epic strength and mystical ability. Gaia meant to digest them into oblivion. But the people were clever. They formed the lava into land. She sent out storms. She blew through the forests great gusts of wind. She hailed fire over them, hoping to burn to ash all the little evil beings. The cruel, malicious beasts who fought for dominance, for worship, and for power. Who enslaved, who committed depraved acts upon the unfortunates of the pit. And Gaia saw this and grew angrier every day.

But not everyone who fell had been bad. A little boy looked up into the sky. Anyone else saw furious clouds and stinging rain. The boy said, in wonder, “How great thou art! Who are you? Who makes the ground quake? Who are you, who can flood the valleys and freeze the sea?” The only answer he got was a coming of silence. A whisper to his heart. In these moments the boy felt a call inside. A call to the sky! The boy went to find his friends. And he did find them.

Like him, they lived in the temple of Mamon, where a great creature held sway over the smallest power of fire. Enough to use it against other creatures and to promise protection to the smallest people. In return, the children chose from among them to be sacrificed. Mamon would press his hands to the sides of their head, look deep into their eyes, and evoke a scream from them until there was no wind for their lungs to push out their throat. Mamon drained them of their desires, of their dreams, and of their thoughts. It had been some time, but today, of all days, the little boy was asked to give up his best friend.

The little boy took a stand. He declared that a Hope had come to him on the side of the mountain; that a great voice filled his soul. A voice so strong even Mamon could not win against it. Some children raised up against Mamon. Some did not. A battle lasted that did not weary the little boy or his friends. But, in fact, Mamon had worn himself. Then a Sokar came by and saw Mamon weak and trembling, and with her many arms she chased him through a forest. The remnants of the children split up. Some too afraid to seek the Voice of the Call. The little boy stayed with his best friend who was also too scared. He encouraged her to come with him one day. He would lead them all.

The days passed by, more friends joined them, and it seemed the little boy would never see the Voice in the sky. Then, an old enemy among the old followers of Mamon came to tell the little boy that they were now in charge instead of Mamon. They fought again. So many lives lost. Finally, little boy begged his friends to come with him. To see the Voice in the sky. They agreed.

The little boy fought with his friends up to the mountains. But he knew that wasn’t it. Then he stepped into the open air off of a cliff. All his friends gasped! He did not fall! The little boy offered his hand and they stepped on the air into the clouds. But it still wasn’t it. The little boy traveled day after day until finally Gaia opened her mouth again and the sun, the true sun, shined down on their faces. The little boy brought out his friends one by one and they stood, hand in hand, and marveled at the new world. The little boy had persevered in his hope. Even as they were afraid and some did not believe. And now they stood in the wake of renewal.

Molly caught her reflection in the window. She had been slack-jawed and staring dumbly at Natalia. She closed her mouth and blinked. “Stars, I hadn’t heard that one before.”

Theo smiled, “Old Russian. From Okunevo.”

“Huh, its’ gotta be a tiny, tiny town.” Molly thought of a few stick huts by a big pond. Sadly, not far off.

“Willow, you have fairy tale?” Theo asked.

 

[Soliloquy]

Like Molly, Willow had also been enrapture by the tale that Natalia shared with them. It was a powerful story and felt as though it resonated with everyone, even those who had clearly heard it before. While she had painted the picture in their heads, it took her back to being a young girl and hearing stories from the adults in her life. Often times it was her parents who shared stories, most of which she did not like. They had too much blood and violence and it never seemed like the best choice to her. Her Grandma Crosse though, why she always had the best stories and told them with such animation. Often her stories were ones that were found in story books, but once in a while she would tell Willow her story, as the young child referred to it.

"I might be able to tell one," she said after some thought. "Now mind you, it's been years, but this was my favorite one growing up. There was once a small village in the Valley of the Stars, surrounded by nothing but the Dark. The people of the village were blessed and cursed at the same time, provided everything they needed within their valley, but never able to leave."

During the day the villagers could venture about, gathering and hunting as they needed to, always to return to the safety of their land before Night fell. With Night came the Creatures. Their ghostly bodies shimmered in the distance, bringing whispered uncertainties that nearly caused madness. The villagers were certain the Creatures meant to destroy them, to run them out of their valley and into the Dark to perish. All but one.

Talae was barely more than a child, and when she told the elders that she believed the Creatures meant no harm, she was quieted and pushed aside. They would continue to launch their spears and fire their strongest bows at the forms when they appeared. The Creatures would shriek in pain, their forms vanishing into the very Earth beneath them when struck, although no matter how many were slaughtered another would return the next night. The cycle continued for an entire cycle before Talae could not stand to hear the cries each night.

Determined to prove to the others, in the dead of Night she slipped past the guards who were looking for the creature. She ran until her lungs felt ready to burst, collapsing to the ground in a cloud of dust. Lying in place, the whisperings of the Creature slowly approached, and with them her heart raced. What if she was wrong? She hadn't brought a weapon and her small body was no match against their power. Closing her eyes, she was braced for the worst as the whispering grew louder and louder. Suddenly, she could hear words in the muttered nothingness from before.

"Come little one, you are not safe," a soft voice spoke to her. Talae opened her eyes to find one of the Creature standing above her, no longer a spectral mystery, but with the figure of a shining human, wings folded upon it's back. There was a sense of near panic on it's genderless face, watching her carefully. "Death comes in the Dark to claim it's next soul. Hurry! Hurry now! Back where it is safe."

The Creature urged her on to her feet, leading her back to the edge of the village. As they moved, a vicious howling wind chased along behind them, cackling and clawing to get at Talae's feet and drag her to her demise. The Creature, unable to lift the mortal girl dove between her and Death, offering up it's soul to spare Talae, the shimmering figure vanishing into the Earth as it did.

Out of breath when she returned to camp, she begged and pleaded for the guards to listen, to stop attacking the Creatures who were only trying to protect them, but it was all for naught. The elders refused to accept that the ghosts they fought each night were anything but Creatures that would otherwise kill them first.

Frustrated, Talae left once again the next night, running until fire in her throat had her collapsed, tears cascading down her cheek. She wept for the Creature who would give it's life for her and for all those her people had slain. The whisperings began just as she was ready to give into sleep, and although she could not know for certain, she felt it was not the one from the night prior.

"Little one, do not weep," the Creature commanded, hovering a short distance from her and waiting until she rose. "Go, you know it is not safe here."

"And it isn't safe for you!" she protested, a tear-stained face and heavy heart for the Creature that she knew would fall to the same fate as the others. "They will kill you if Death doesn't first! They are blinded by their own fear and you will die to their sword."

The Creature nodded, knowing well what she spoke of. "But the man will kill himself without us. We offer ourselves to keep out Death and spare those we can." None of it made sense to Talae. They were not dying every night to protect the villagers who would only turn their spears and kill them from fear. Why would they do such a thing? Without speaking her confusion, the Creature spoke, seeming to understand. "There are worse things than death, little one. We will stand guard between your people and the Worst even if it means Death."

The wicked cackle of Death sounded and the Creature and Talae flew through the Dark of the Valley, nearly at the edge of the village when Death's stride caught up. The Creature smiled before it's body vanished into the ground, not a monster as her people believed, but an Angel to protect over them.

The villagers would not accept her tales again of the Angels, even threatening to banish her to the Dark. Talae had no choice but to keep the truth to herself while the villagers lived in fear. She grew old and wise, each night saying a prayer and shedding a tear for the Angels who died for them.

 

[xrakkax]

Their hearts went out to Talae. Sometimes fear closed minds and hearts, so that the pain doesn’t get to you. They all understood the longing for peace. A few of them struggled with it, seeing the strength of evil in the Creatures more than the strength outside of them.

Theo hummed thoughtfully, “What happened next?”

Granya peeked over the cushion of her seat, “Is the end already?” A few more people were curious if she had more.

Willow nodded to Granya. "My grandmother told me that it was up to us how the story would end. That's why I called it my story," she explained with a small chuckle. "I had quite the imagination when I was younger."

“Oh, a story you finish.” Theo nodded in approval. He liked that.

Molly said, “In my story there is a huge battle between the Death and the people, and they have to choose whether or not to fight him, or the Creatures, and in the fight, they realize the Creatures aren’t all bad like they thought. Talae takes up a Winchester 1897 and shoots Death in the face.”

“You would.” Amalia chuckled.

“I like Willow story,” Theo said in thought.

Natalia chuckled, “Myshka, I don’t think Death dying by a gun is plausible.”

Molly geared up for her defense, “Hey, Willow’s grandma said I can make up the end! Stars, we have the embodiment of Death in it, I demand that he is susceptible to lead in the face!”

Micha shrugged, squeezing out a pitched noise of cautionary disagreement, “Eh, well, was Willow Granama say to Willow, really Da?”

True, the story wasn’t told to Molly by Willows Grandma, and the old lady didn’t ‘say’ that to her, but stood by her statement, “Well Willow told me, and I think that’s enough.”

They squabbled for a while over that topic before a few more stories were told to keep the mood light. Whether or not Death himself would die by bullets would be left for later. They arrived at the camping site after several hours. The sun yawned over the horizon, breathing colors across the sky. Certain people-- who may or may not have been named Molly-- began to feel her temper fray. Micha fidgeted. She had finished the last of her designated snacks, and his, two hours ago. They had at least another hour of unpacking, setting up the tent, and then cooking. There was no telling what would happen now.

Smoke practically trailed out of Molly’s ears as she shuffled between the van and the clearing. Though she insisted she was fine. Theo had heard that talk before. His eyes glanced at Willow. He shrugged. Can’t be perfect, right? Theo would navigate Willow’s Dream Warrior state to the best of his ability. But that was when they slept.

Micha still had to navigate hungry Molly, now, when they expected work from her. And cooperation that didn’t involve snippy, snappy comments. Micha could tell it was time to snuff it out before it got too far when Molly was about to kick the foldable tables, “Molly, look like we forgot vodka.” He said, slipping the bottle under a seat in secret.

“What?” Molly blinked. Jovan perked too, looking at him with a face of utter displeasure, and some disgust. But a peek with the help of his stow-away squirrel set him at ease. He also realized what must be going on here and went back to work. Molly hadn’t seen any of that, and she turned to find solidarity with Jovan about this outrage. “Did you hear that?”

“Da.” Jovan feigned a frown. But he didn’t intend on engaging, so he ignored further hype.

“How are we even here without checking? Twice?!” Molly set her hands, hips akimbo. “What the hell?

Micha raised his hands in peace, “Why not get from little shop? Da?” He said nothing about snacks. That’d be like lighting a match.

Grumpily, Molly sighed, “Fine.” She set aside the pack she was handling and looked around. “Anyone want to come?” The lack of enthusiasm had her pursing her lips. “Pfft, fine! I’ll do it myself.” Any offer to come after that was snubbed. No one said it, but they were banking Molly would return cheery and ready for some real food after nibbling at the store.

Once Molly had left to get the vodka, taking the folded up electric scooter for a faster trip, Micha exhaled, “Oi, Mollyshka.” Theo laughed heartily and pointed. Micha turned a raised brow on him, “You one to talk. Purple nose.”

Theo dismissed him with a hand wave. His nose was only purple for a day anyway. His Dream Warrior, still not admitting anything, was still easier to handle. Speaking of, Theo came to see how she fared with helping set up the tents.

The family had brought three: a large one for Jovan, Natalia, Amalia, and Granya, and the couples each got their own. Bear would sleep outside. Avril would be wrapped up with Amalia. Jovan’s squirrel took up a spot in the trees. Bandit? Well, she was just about everywhere her body could fit. Up a tree, under a rock, in a purse, hell, she’d go up your nose if she could fit! Finn, naturally, perched on Granya’s shoulder all day. And at night he would go in and out of a flap.

“Красивый, how you doing?” Theo asked as she made himself useful. They are all hungry. Micha was getting the food going while the others helped set up. “Getting ready for bear attack?” He chuckled, "I know of different kind of attack from a certain kind of bear." He winked. Notably, a tall, bearded one, with a Russian accent.

 

[Soliloquy]

Willow enjoyed listening to others ideas on just how the story should end. Molly was, of course, the confrontational, no nonsense type of person to face a problem head-on. In contrast, Willow had always thought that Talae could show the villagers that the Creatures weren't harmful since they wouldn't listen to words. It was often difficult to get another to see your perspective, but perhaps physically seeing it would be enough.

They had finally reached the campsite and she couldn't have been more grateful for a chance to stretch her legs. As much as she might love her lover and his family, that was a lot of bodies in a small space. Granted, the unfortunate circumstance of their camping trip nearly perfectly aligning with her own cycle of natural irritability wasn't going to help things. Hopefully with Natalia's friendly roller tucked in her bag and counting to ten a few times, they could get through the trip without her snapping at Theo or the others.

Unfortunately, when trying to keep a level head during an emotional surge of estrogen, assembling a tent isn't exactly a breeze. She'd already managed to thwack herself in the leg three times with a pole that wasn't bending as much as she needed it to, in order for it to slip into the bottom clip when Theo walked over to her. Flustered red cheeks, a sweaty forehead and clenched teeth when she wasn't breathing a colorful sentence at the tent were interrupted by his appearance.

Looking up, she forced a smile that was still visible agitation. "Well, krasavchik." There was a certain weight behind the word that she normally said affectionately when speaking to him. Theo was about to find out that Willow was also 'fine', like hungry Molly was. "If I get smacked by one more pole, I don't know if your bear is going to be able to handle mine." Oh, she was holding on by a thread. It was still too warm, she was getting hungry and hadn't had a chance to attend to certain needs for a few hours, her roller still packed.

 

[xrakkax]

Although a bummer, Theo knew this wasn’t going to go away anytime soon. Periods, until Willow crossed into her golden years, were going to be a thing. Either start handling them now or live a life of misery. Well, more misery. Theo recalled when he genuinely wanted to know how Willow was doing, so he asked, “You good day?” and she started to cry. Or when he forgot to clean the sink of his shaving stubble on the days he groomed his beard. The beginning of her time was almost never a big surprise. Usually, he got a heads up from Granya who knew these things. And thankfully Willow’s body had a helpful tell before setting off; deep breaths and momentary clenched fist. A small heads up.

Knowing he and Willow had talked about this being a thing for the trip, Theo promised he’d do his best to help her out. Not that he didn’t already. This trip meant a step towards spending nights at his house. Theo could understand the stress of being your worst self and hoping for the best outcome.

“Eh, why don’t you--” Theo barely got words out when Amalia dropped by their tent. She got that pole in that had alluded Willow. Then she reached for the next pole in silence and purpose.

 

[Soliloquy]

Bless his heart for trying to carefully approach the subject, but Theo was walking on up to a bear that had gone from sweating in a crowded van to sweating outside where there were mosquitoes and bears and boyfriends who were treading dangerously. She was about to tell him that she didn't need him to mansplain a tent to her in a tone that would be eerily calm and even while her eyes grew wide and threatened to devour him, when another contender stepped into the ring.

Narrowed eyes whipped from the pole up to Amalia who had done what she'd been struggling with for the past ten minutes without breaking a sweat. While it might have just been her accustomed to it after going camping year after year with her family, Willow promptly took it the wrong way. "I can do this myself, Amalia," she said through her teeth, each syllable riddled with tension.

"Da, I see." Amalia snickered. "Good job at fail." Theo face-palmed despairingly. Putting naturally moody Amalia near unnaturally moody Willow did not make for a good time.

A jest from the normally lippy Amalia might have been taken much better if the moons weren't against their favor. As it stood, the word 'fail' hit Willow like a load of bricks. She'd failed. She was getting closer and closer to being thirty and what did she have to show for it? She lived in a shit hole apartment and was a waitress with a degree. She couldn't even put a damn tent together!

Her throat grew thick as she stood in a hurry, moving from the campsite toward the treeline. She hated anyone seeing her crying and so the woods were going to have to work the same as when she'd locked herself in the bathroom at work once or twice before to compose herself. A few yards into the treeline she found a large oak tree, silently declaring it to be her safe haven. Cheeks hot with tears she'd sloppily climbed her way into it's branches, quickly discovering how much harder it was when she wasn't ten anymore. A weak branch threw off her balance and suddenly she was clinging to one like a sloth with her arms and legs, hanging to the underside of it. "I can't even climb a tree," she muttered in a sweaty, teary, defeat.

 

[xrakkax]

As Willow walked away she could hear the fading sounds of unrest between Theo and Amalia. Theo exasperatedly arguing with his cousin that she needed to be more considerate. Amalia argued she did nothing wrong, she was being herself, and he could go stick his head up his butt. In the end they hushed by a look from Jovan. Amalia quietly murmured that Willow was taking it too personally. Theo took this opportunity to whisper to Amalia that Willow was on her time.

Things clicked together. Amalia shrugged, "Fair point." While she stood by her statement that she didn't do wrong, she did agree to be more vigilant during their trip. At least around Willow. "Still telling her about us now?" In light of the 'situation'.

Theo felt less confident, "I don't know." He admitted. "We see." For now he had to find Willow.

Bandit, who had been running around, was called to his side. Theo picked her up and put her into his pocket. Then he sought out his lady love. Willow was found hanging from a tree branch. Theo would have loved to tease and poke. Not right now. Instead Theo called up, "Hangin' in there?" Okay, maybe one.

 

[Soliloquy]

Red-cheeked Willow looked up/down to see Theo below her, clearly trying to contain himself. The realization of just how ridiculous shes had to seem was hitting her, but at that point there was nothing she could do about it. She tightened her grip on the bark that was starting to scratch up her legs and arms, sighing and lifting her head that was getting heavy as blood rushed to it.

"I can't do it," she said, refusing to look at him as she lost a grip on herself while focusing on the tree. "I can't put a tent together -that's so simple! I failed at everything I try to do and then I think I'm not doing what I'm supposed to. What if this has was all just one mistake after another? You're the only thing I've done right, but then I wonder if I did something wrong." They weren't progressing as a couple like Micha and Molly clearly were, and at times she wondered if there was another reason she hadn't been allowed to spend the night at his house. "And now I'm here, can't put a tent together, can't deal with my own damn body, and I'm probably going to ruin the entire camping trip. I'm sorry."

 

[xrakkax]

Theo sighed. Even if the brunt of this had to be agitated by Aunt Flo, he knew it wasn’t all caused by Willow's Red Tide. Knowing the obligation of responsibility to care and protect only made it worse. Theo wanted badly to settle the unease he had the power to influence, but he knew right now, right here, and maybe especially on her time, wasn’t it.

“You human. You can’t do all. But, Красивый, you do succeed much. ” Theo offered, in a gentle tone. Though he couldn’t calm her about everything right now, he could do some. “You play cello, you sing. You make people happy to come to pub.” He smiled. “Some people tell me they have long, hard day, but they spirit lift to talk to you, to see you.” While Theo knew she was focusing on her failures, he hoped she’d hear him out. “You not ruin camp trip, Willow. They understand if you tell them. Amalia is understand.” He pointed out. There were no hard feelings. “Come down, Красивый.” He walked under neath and spread his arms to catch. “Let me soothe you.”

 

[Soliloquy]

Admittedly, his words did help her quite a bit. She needed his reassurance desperately in that moment, letting her neck drop down so she could see him. He was always so good at grounding her..even if she was in a tree at the moment. Taking a slow breath, she nodded. She could stop being ridiculous and communicate, like a real adult. Very cautiously, she released her snaked legs from the branch, the pressure on her upper body was more than she bargained for. "Don't drop me like you did that log," she muttered before closing her eyes and releasing the branch.

 

[xrakkax]

Theo would have pressed a hand to his heart in mock offense, but all he could do is spoff goodnaturedly, “Alright, you, get down here.” He chuckled. Theo easily caught Willow in his arms. He feigned a drop just to tease her, but quickly regretted it and quickened his pace to the campsite.

By the time they arrived back they saw Molly had come with that bottle of vodka and the others had managed to set up the tents. Micha just finished making familiar Russian food for them at the table. It wasn’t as extravagant as when they were at the pub, but it was enough. Bear was fed separately so it didn’t gross Molly out with his bloody slobbery jowls while she had her meal. Natalia fed Pippin some of the grubs she brought with her at her plate side. Avril was allowed to hunt. Theo let Bandit hunt as well. Finn, being a raven, had no trouble eating what Granya ate.

An atmosphere of relaxation settled over them once the last bite of dinner had been consumed. Belly’s full, hearts eager, and minds winding down for sleep, it was time to huddle around the warm fire with cups of tea.

“First day always rough.” Jovan said. “It get better.”

Molly poured herself a bit of whiskey. She had gotten vodka, yes, but why not a little extra since she was already at the shop? She shared some with a grateful Jovan. “Yeah, it was. Sorry about my attitude guys.” She sighed. Micha pat her back to assure her no one was angry.

 

[Soliloquy]

He may have considered offense in jest, but if he wouldn't have caught her, that would have been a whole other spat to have. As it stood, he did even if she did have to threaten to smack him for pretending at the end. Dinner was much appreciated and both girls were nearly silent as they ate, food appearing to be a factor in both moods. Relaxing at the fire, she sat right at Theo's side. She might have coaxed a splash of whiskey from Molly, just to take the edge off her less than pleasant state.

Willow also felt ashamed at her actions, nodding in agreement. "I'm sorry, just a bit..mood," she said, unable to even completely blame it on hunger. "I think a good nights sleep will help and then we'll all be ready for tomorrow." She sure hoped Jovan was right and that she really wasn't ruining the trip. Some sleep, a bit of Natalia's magic oils and maybe a brick or two of chocolate and she should be ready to go in the morning.

 

[xrakkax]

The campers murmured in agreement. They day had been long. It felt like two stuffed in one. Amalia got up, "You right. My mood not best either. Sorry." She admitted. "I head off now. Shchenok, don't stay up." She gave Granya a look.

Granay frowned, "No story?"

"Not tonight. Go on." Natalia chuckled.

Grumpily Granya stood up and pulled her trenchcoat tighter around herself. "Feh." She muttered, heading off to pee beforehand. Finn took his leave from her at these times. He perched on a tree nearby though.

The rest of them shuffled off to their sleeping spots. Theo wrapped an arm around Willow. He kissed her head. He knew she didn’t like being asked if she was doing ok with her period, so he decided to try an idea, “You mind if I ask ‘Update?’, to check if you need anything, or if you want space or a roller?”

 

[Soliloquy]

Willow couldn't help but grin as Granya stalked off, seeing so much of her uncle in her. It made her wonder what her parents were like, and not for the first time. She also had to imagine that if Granyas mother was anything like Theo and there was a whole slew of kids, they were quite the group to keep up with.

Her arm snaked around Theo's waist as they headed toward their private tent. She appreciated his gentle proding, nodding and letting her forehead rest on the side of his shoulder. "My roller is in my bag. I'll grab it after I get ready for bed," she said, knowing she was likely due for a changing, and either way wanted to have a fresh pad for the night. "I was just busy trying not to forget anything, so I hope I actually did grab the chocolates. If not, I'm sure I'll survive. But unless you can somehow get me a hot bubble bath and glass of rose, I think I'll be fine." She paused, giving his torso a side squeeze of a hug. "But thank you for asking."

 

[xrakkax]

Inhaling a relieved breath, Theo was glad he found some way to check on her without irritating her. At the mention of chocolates, he spoffed, “No way I forget chocolates.” He had, in fact, checked thrice, and made sure here were enough for each day of her time. It behooved him to make sure he knew these days were coming. It always sucked when it jumped out unexpectedly.

They got to the tent. Theo grabbed some last-minute bedtime routine items, like his toothbrush and toothpaste, and when he was done with that he slipped off his clothes down to his drawers. All the while in the tent, of course. When Willow was ready for bed she saw he had a long, thick pillow at his side in addition to the ones for their head. Theo smiled sheepishly. It was one of the coping methods for claiming bed territory during the inevitable struggle for sheet-land between him and his Dream Warrior.

She pursed her lips together, knowing precisely what plans he had for a pillow barrier. "C'mon, you can't try to say it's that bad," she huffed, slipping down beside the pillow. Reaching into her bag, she fished out her roller, lifting her shirt to apply it generously. "I'm so tired, I don't think I'm going to move at all."

Theo was going to say 'eh, precaution' but he didn't know how much he wanted to risk. So he nodded, "Eh, maybe right. " And in his head, he murmured 'maybe not, we'll see.' Sometimes he wondered if the Willow awake got tired because the Sleep Willow was taking that energy for the night. "So, usually for camp, we swim, in nearby clear pond. We play hide and seek games. We also just do relax, like read and sing. What you want to do tomorrow?"

She mulled over the options he gave her, quickly deciding that if hide and seek happened, she'd be playing the role of the observer. The last thing she wanted was to be stuck in another tree. "I'm fine with swimming," she decided, thinking maybe the water could help. "That or if we are feeling lazy maybe I'll start working on a Summer tan."

“Da, sound good.” Theo agreed. He grinned at the mention of a tan. “Oh yes, very pale, should do. I’ll keep watch while you nap under sun.” There was plenty more he said, getting comfortable with her in the sleeping bags. But nothing that lead to any activity beyond kisses. They were both too tired at that point.

Sleep did them all good. Before dawn Micha decided to get up to make breakfast. He thought this might help start off the week on a good note. They had a lot to shoulder in these coming days. Micha and Theo still hadn’t felt it was the right time to tell Molly and Willow their secret. Until then they’d have lots of fun!

Molly noticed his absence first. She felt around blindly. Her fingers snared pillow instead of his lush hair. The men in this family-- hell, the women too-- had great hair. But as it was, she opened her eyes to see he had already left. Molly poked her head out of her tent. A hand stretched out with coffee already mixed to her liking. Wordlessly Molly took it and sunk back into her tent, eyes closed, sipping at the liquid that wasn’t too hot or too cold. Molly muffled praise, “Oh my go--” She guzzled it down.

Theo yawned, stretched, and sniffed the air. Food. Nice, ready, hot food. And bonus, the pillow had worked! As expected he ended up needing it. Willows body contorted with the pillow as if she and it had an epic battle. Theo lay there unscathed. But before she noticed, Theo slipped it from her arms and nuzzled into them himself. Morning Willow was far more pleasant. Theo laid little kisses on her cheek to wake her. Then they got ready, got up, and had an amazing first breakfast of their trip. The turmoil of yesterday seemed like months ago.

As discussed, Theo and Willow went to swim first. A few of the others came as well. But Granya wanted to romp in the woods with Bear. The large dog and Granya were nearly gone for the whole day. They came back through the treeline smelly and muddy.

Molly thought she caught the scent of blood. Granya looked grumpy too. After asking about it, Granya fidgeted and said Bear had jumped on her after he killed a boar. He was too excited over the fact that he did it, that he got Granya all messy in his efforts to share his joy. Molly did her best not to laugh. Micha laughed though. He laughed very hard. Granya threw a shoe at him and chased him around the camp. Their shenanigans were put to a stop by a look from Jovan.

The older man tended to like a more relaxed vacay. Several books were stacked by Jovans back-pillow, on a comfy patch of green grass. Natalia joined in occasionally. But she was very interested in the botany of the woods. Willow saw her once or twice even sample some odd vegetation and then write about it in a journal. That was too slow and boring for Amalia. She and Avril often walked through the woods to a cliffside where she would practice some martial arts. They would come back only to swim in the late evening and eat dinner with the others.

Theo enjoyed most of his time with Willow. Though now that Molly had Micha, they also spent time together. Micha and Theo even got the girls to play hide-and-go-seek. Granya seemed to win a lot. Theo and Micha only let her play because she was their niece, but she mercifully laughed and let them at it themselves. The champion of hiding and seeking retired.

Whatever they did in the day, it was assured that they would come to the campfire at night. Here they talked about their time, sang a song without Molly, and eventually got to telling stories. This was a family tradition.

On the night before the eleventh Amalia told one about Straggletag. A fairies daughter who worked in a castle as a scullery maid.

Straggletag was left with three gowns when all of her other family possessions burned to the ground. She disguised herself as a beast of scales, fur, and feathers. So none of the fairy hunters knew her. Through events leading up to the birthday of the prince, she met him in a beasty form, and although he thought her fun and spunky, he said he was in love with the mystery woman who so far wore two unique, magical gowns. Secretly amused, Straggletag told him maybe he had not far to look. That confused him.

The last dance, the night of his birthday, the prince met the mystery woman again. She was as pretty as a fairy. But, at midnight, she leaped away. The prince was prepared and chased. But, the girl was clever and got away with it. Well, almost. She dropped a shoe. The prince went to work to find the other. No one in the kingdom has a match! Then one day Straggletag came in through the hall where the prince sat miserably. He was happy to see her. She had been a wonderful support in his grief.

In front of all the horrified court, Straggletag asked if he would keep his promise. That whoever could wear and match the shoe, he would marry. All the court gasped and took out their swords to shoo her away. The prince halted their charge. He agreed and said Straggle had been an amazing person. Even if the shoe didn’t fit. There was no reason why he wouldn’t marry her anyway. Delighted, Straggle showed her foot had one of the shoes. Her fur and feathers vanished, and she stood as the beautiful fairy. They married and she never knew hunger or loss again.

 

[Soliloquy]

As always, Willow found no evidence at night that his claims were true. If anything, the fact that he had curled up beside her in the morning only felt like it confirmed her thoughts that he was over-exaggerating the whole ordeal. Regardless, woken with kisses was a good way to start any day, even one that was riddled with cramps now and then. She gave a silent prayer of thanks that they camped with cooks over breakfast, feeling her body energize for the day ahead.

Despite the rocky start of the trip, things were going increasingly well. She enjoyed a refreshing break from the city and the fresh air all around them. Even her momentary distractions as she dealt with her own dose of mother nature couldn't damper the good spirits of the trip (at least not when they had to get through healthy doses of Natalia's oils! - she'd have to get her a gift to exchange for another bottle at this rate). Their evenings at the fireside felt perfect to bring everyone together, winding down in Theo's arms as she heard the families stories.

The story of Straggletag at first had seemed like an interesting spin of Cinderella, but in the end Willow decided she liked Amalia's tale more. The stories that made one question their own judgement were her personal favorites, especially when the main character was staying true to their word. It as a shame that life couldn't be more like fairy tales. As Amalia's telling came to an end, Willow stifled a yawn, leaning into Theo. "You all know such beautiful stories," she commented.