Archive of Our Own ^beta

Once upon a time, there was a boy called Hisirdoux. He saw the world not always as it was, but as perhaps it could be, with just a little bit of magic.
“Ah look at him! My darling!” The young mother cooed as she gently held her son. Her husband soon accompanied her and sat beside the woman, smiling gently at his wife and son.
To Hirsirdoux’s mother and father, he was a prince. True he had no title, nor crown, nor castle, but he was the ruler of his own kingdom, whose borders were the house and meadow on the forest's edge where his people had lived for generations.
With Archie, his cat, and all their animal friends. There would be many days when he would run outside in the garden with his mother, playing games and include the farm animals.
“Now Archie, you mustn’t eat Mister Gus-Gus! He’s our friend, besides we have enough cat food for you to eat!” The eight-year-old boy had said, wagging a scolding finger at the kitten. Archie only gave an annoyed sound before leaving with a sassy flick of his tail.
“Isn’t that right Mama?” He asked his mother. Hirsirdoux’s mother laughed at the interaction, charmed by her son’s seriousness.
“You still believe that they understand you?” She asked the young boy and he turned to look at her.
“Don’t they, Mama?” He asked. Mrs. Casperan was so adorned by her son’s adorable face, how could she say no?
“Oh yes.” She smiled. “I believe that animals listen and speak to us if we only have the ear for it.” She explained. Young Hirsirdoux couldn’t help but marvel at his mother’s words. “That’s how we learn to look after them.” She finished, motioning to the animals around them. In a swift movement, she picked up her son and kissed his cheeks and nose, making him laugh.
“But, Mama, who looks after us?” Hisirdoux asked, curiosity filling him.
“Fairy godfathers, of course.” The woman smiled at him. Hisirdoux laughed at that. The very notion of magic being real seemed almost fictitious.
“And do you believe in them?” He asked his mother.
“I believe in everything my dear Douxie!” His mother replied as she started walking back towards their manor.
“Then I believe in everything too!” The young boy then declared happily, sending his mother into another wave of laughter. He smiled, he loved hearing her laugh and he loved being the one to make her laugh this way.
Hisirdoux’s father was a merchant who went abroad and brought tribute back from all of Douxie’s subject lands. Douxie missed him terribly when he was away, but he knew he would always return.
“There’s that beautiful wife of mine!” Mr. Casperan bellowed as he scooped his wife into a kiss and embrace, making the woman chuckle and turn a fine shade of red.
“And this can’t be my Douxie!” The man gasped as his son ran to hug him. “No, no, no, no! My Douxie was small! About ye big! Who are you and what have you done with Hisirdoux!” He joked as he picked the boy up and tickled him.
“NooOOOooo.” Douxie laughed as he desperately tried to speak. “I-it’s me! Papa! I-it’s meeee.” He giggled. “I grew! I grew!” He shouted proudly as his father’s tickling stopped.
“Indeed you have! You’re almost as big as me now!” The older man chuckled, kissing atop the young boy’s head. “I have something for you! The both of you!” He then announced. Douxie’s whole face lit up in excitement at the statement.
“Yay! Presents!” He shouted, practically jumping out of his father’s arms. Mrs. Casperan also seemed intrigued as she sat down in the lounge chair that decorated their living room.
“Pieces of fine jewelry from Paris!” The man explained as he handed his wife a beautiful pair of yellow earrings that perfectly complimented her nearly golden eyes. To Douxie he handed the boy something of a bracelet—no—a wristband. It was made of a fine metal with sharply carved decorations that looked like writing. It was…so different. It intrigued Douxie, but as he tried to put it on his wrist he realized how loose of a fit it was.
“It doesn’t fit, Papa!” The boy explained, showing the size difference.
“Maybe not now, but as you grow, that is sure to change.” Mr. Casperan reassured his son, kneeling at eye level with the boy. “And when you are ready, its capabilities will open up to you.” He smiled. The older man then stood up and looked at his wife, who had already begun to put on the earrings he had gifted her.
Yes, all was as it should be. They knew themselves to be the most happy of families to live as they did and to love each other so.
“When I am queen dilly, dilly, You shall be king.” Mrs. Casperan sang to her now sleeping son, brushing some loose bangs from his face as he turned to lay more comfortably in his bed.
“Lavender's green dilly, dilly, Lavender's blue.” She sang as she admired the boy before her, taking in all his perfection as he was. She was so proud of him, of all that he was that she couldn’t help the single tear that slid from her face as she sang the last chorus. “You must love me dilly, dilly.”
Douxie smiled in his sleep as he mumbled the last bit along with his mother. “For I love you.” The woman stood up with her husband by her side, her gaze lingering on her most beloved son. The most precious thing to her in the world before a small cough escaped her. It was then that her husband ushered her out of their child’s room, where she coughed a little more aggressively.

—

Sadly, sorrow can come to any kingdom, no matter how happy. So it came to Douxie’s. He doesn’t quite remember when the doctor visits became so frequent (in fact, he tries to forget the start of it altogether), but he will never forget the day the doctor simply shook his head and apologized to Douxie’s father, who had taken time off from traveling once his wife turned ill.
Mrs. Casperan was dying and there was nothing she or her family could do about it.
“I’m so sorry.”
“Thank you, Doctor.”
“This must be very hard for you.”
Douxie could hear the almost muffled conversation between his father and the doctor before the doors to his parent’s bedroom opened and the doctor left his father with a look one can only describe as heartbreak. Mr. Casperan looked towards his son, Douxie looked back with worry and sadness. He hated that look on his son’s face.
“Come, Hisirdoux.” He said, taking his son’s hand and guiding him into the bedroom where his mother lay, wasting away in her bed as she stared out the glassy window. She heard the sound of footsteps and immediately smiled as she noticed her family entering the room.
“Douxie, my darling.” She croaked, her voice was hoarse and horrible sounding and it made Douxie want to cry. He crawled onto the bed before cozying up next to his mother, who cradled him ever so softly as if he were a baby once more.
“Douxie, I want to tell you a secret.” She said, making Douxie look up at her. He could barely recognize his mother. Her hair which was once a shiny black was now almost a dull gray. Her eyes, eyes that she shared with Douxie, were a shaded yellow, having lost their golden glow long ago. Her skin was rough and damaged unlike when she had taken care of it before the sickness had her bed-ridden, the sight hurt the poor boy’s heart. This was not his mother, only a shell of who she once truly was. Soon she’d be gone. All gone.
“A great secret that will see you through all the trials that life can offer.” The woman spoke. “You must always remember this. Have courage and be kind. You have more kindness in your little finger than most people possess in their whole body.” She told her son, Douxie didn’t realize he was crying till his mother wiped the tears from his face. He hated this, why did he have to say goodbye? It wasn’t fair! “And it has power, more than you know, and magic.”
“Magic?” Douxie sniffled.
“Truly.” His mother replied, trying her best to be brave for her young son. “Have courage and be kind, my darling.” She echoed, as she sat herself and Douxie up so she could look her son in the eye. “Will you promise me?” She asked.
Douxie nodded. “I promise.” He would do this for her, he’d do anything for her. The words made his mother smile, a sight that would always make Douxie smile himself.
“Good…and…” She said, her smile fading as she looked towards her husband. She couldn’t cry. Not in front of her Douxie, she needed to be strong so he didn’t have to be.
“I must go very soon, my love…please forgive me.” She said as her husband embraced both her and Douxie, allowing the family one last hug altogether.
“Of course, I forgive you.” Douxie replied, burying his face into his mother’s chest.
“I love you.” The woman then told her husband.
“I love you, my darling.” Mr. Casperan replied in a quivering voice.
Douxie’s mother then looked down at her son, a boy who was now sobbing into her nightgown. She kissed the top of his head and hugged him tighter.
“I love you, Hisirdoux.”

—

Time passed, and pain turned to memory. In his heart, Douxie stayed the same, for he remembered his promise to his mother. Have courage and be kind. His father, however, was much changed, but he hoped for better times. After the death of his wife, Mr. Casperan threw himself entirely into his work and traveled often, for longer periods at a time. Douxie did not blame his father for this reaction, the death of his mother had taken quite a toll on both of them. He just hoped his father would soon find closure, besides Douxie was fifteen, he could take care of himself.
It wasn’t like he was alone anyway! He had Archie, the farm animals, and the maids and cooks who worked around his house. They all loved the boy so, he was a delight and true helper, never not finding something to do around the manor. However, it wasn’t till one day when Douxie’s father had returned from a trip to Camelot his life truly took a turn.
“Hisirdoux! My boy.” His father smiled as he embraced his son. He had stopped calling him Douxie since the day they buried his mother, and while it bothered the teen a bit he didn’t complain.
“Papa! It’s so great to see you home safe!” Douxie replied, smiling fondly at the older man. Mr. Casperan smiled at his son’s enthusiasm and noticed the simple piece of jewelry around his wrist.
“Ah! Look at that! The band almost fits you!” He commented, gently taking the young boy’s wrist. “You really are becoming a man in front of my eyes.” He said gently. Douxie sheepishly rubbed the metal and nodded.
“Do come in Papa! I tidied the place up for you…with some help!” He smiled, guiding his father inside. “You must tell me stories from your travels to Camelot!” Mr. Casperan’s face lit up at the comment, making him clap his hands in excitement.
“Yes! Yes! My young boy! I bring the best news.” He smiled, sitting himself and his son next to him on the couch in their living room. Douxie was intrigued, whatever had his father so worked up must be riveting. “You do recall from my letter’s I’ve made a few noble acquaintances in Camelot?” He asked his son, who nodded shortly after being given time to think.
“Yes…” Douxie answered, now a bit cautious about where this conversation may be heading.
“Well one of them has died sadly, poor man.” Mr. Casperan explained. He paused, looking at Douxie a bit shyly before going on. “His widow, an honorable woman, finds herself alone, though still in the prime of her life.” He said.
Ah…explains why he’s nervous…
“You’re worried about telling me, but you mustn’t be.” Douxie quickly reassured his father. “Not if it will lead to your happiness.” He smiled. His father looked at his son with pure joy as he registered his son’s words.
“Yes. Happiness. Do you think I may be allowed one last chance, even though I thought such things were done with for good?” Mr. Casperan asked, his eyes welling with tears. Douxie nodded. It’d been a while since his father had smiled so brightly and if this joy came from a woman it didn’t bother Douxie one bit.
“Of course I do, Papa.” He smiled. Douxie’s father quickly embraced his son tightly, overjoyed at his acceptance and willingness to this new situation.
“She’ll merely be your stepmother.” He explained. “And you’ll have two rambunctious brothers to keep you company.”
Okay, now THAT was something entirely different. Being an only child his whole life Douxie wasn’t sure how okay he would be with two strangers his age sniffing around him and his house. However, he only inhaled and remembered.
Have courage, and be kind.
In no time at all Mr. Casperan’s new wife and her two sons arrived at the manor. If Douxie said he wasn’t nervous about meeting them, he’d have lied. He had no idea what they’d be like or what they even looked like, but from the sounds of the carriage that entered the gates, the boys were loud.
“Quit touching my stuff!” A boy's voice bellowed from inside the carriage.
“Ugh! We’ve been stuck in this carriage forever!” A second answered, followed by a feminine voice shouting.
“Quiet you two!”
Leaving the carriage Douxie saw a young woman no later than her mid-twenties with long red hair, neatly braided down her back, and she wore a gorgeous gold and green gown that complimented her thin hourglass figure. Following her were two teen boys who kept knocking each other in the head as they left the carriage. One was tall and pale, he had a rather thin muscular build to him along with gold eyes and red hair similar to his mother’s. The second was a tad bit tanner and shorter than his brother and had glowing blue eyes with jet black hair and a more beefy build.
“Welcome!” Mr. Casperan smiled as he embraced his new wife, pecking her cheek as she smiled back at him.
The boys snarled as their eyes landed on Douxie.
“He’s so skinny! What a shrimp!”
“Ugh, his hair looks like a mop! Does he take care of it?” Douxie heard them say as they made their way towards him.
“Welcome.” He smiled, giving a slight bow. They were nobility after all. “It’s so good to finally meet you two.” He told them. Both boys gave some of the fakest grins Douxie had ever seen.
“Nice to meet you!” The red haired one spoke. “I’m Angor Rot, but everyone calls me Angor.” He smiled, patting Douxie harshly on the back.
“Names Gunmar…everybody calls me Gunmar.” The stronger-looking one added, also giving Douxie’s back a wack.
“Cause that’s your name dummy!” Angor rolled his eyes at his brother. Gunmar scowled.
“Shut your mouth before I shut it for you!” Gunmar threatened as he shoved Douxie aside to get in his brother’s face.
“You’re all talk Gunmar!”
“Oh yeah!?”
Douxie quickly went inside, not wanting to get in between any fight the two might get into.
“Barbarians.” Douxie sighed before walking over to where his father and new stepmother stood.

“How charming! How perfectly charming!” The woman crowed at the house as Mr. Casperan gave her a tour. Douxie’s stepmother was a woman of keen feeling and refined taste, and she, too, had known grief, but she wore it wonderfully well.
“Oh my goodness!” She cooed as she saw young Douxie approach her and her husband. “You did not say your son was so handsome!” She gushed, taking Douxie’s chin in her hand. It felt rough and forceful, but Douxie tried not to look bothered.
“Oh, he takes after his….mother.” Douxie’s father hesitantly explained, and the woman smiled softly.
“Just so.” She said, letting Douxie go.
“What’s Mother mean?” Douxie heard Gunmar’s voice ask from afar, and it seemed Douxie’s two brutes of step brothers had come in sooner than later from their fight. “What’s so charming about it?”
“She’s lying!” Angor told his brother. “That’s just good manners.”
“Shut up!”
—

Douxie’s new stepmother, the high-spirited lady that she was, set out to restore life and laughter to the house. Every night there were parties, get-togethers, and grand dinners. None of which Douxie enjoyed, so he spent most of them in his room with Archie.
“You funny old cat! How many times must I tell you Gus Gus and Jaqueline are not food!” He scolded Archie with a chuckle, protecting the mice on his shoulder. “If you are hungry, eat some of your cat food I buy you!” He said, picking up Archie and making his way to the kitchen. The mice quickly jump from his shoulder and resume their nibbling on cheese. Douxie lovingly stroked Archie’s back as he purred and nuzzled the side of his face into the boy’s shoulder and chest. “You're just an old sap aren’t you.” He smiled. As he walked down the hall he noticed his father alone in his study, looking rather lonely.
I guess Archie’s food will have to wait another few minutes.
He quietly knocked on the glass door, waving at his father who ushered him in with a smile.
“You’re missing the party.” Douxie smiled, setting Archie down so the cat could explore the room.
“Oh, I imagine it’s much like the other ones.” Mr. Casperan smiled, a weak cough leaving him with his sentence. “And I’m leaving first thing, Hisirdoux.” Douxie’s small smile faded into a sad frown.
“No…but you’re… hardly back from your last trip.” The young boy said, disappointment tainting his words. “Do you have to go?” Douxie was nervous to be spending time alone with his stepfamily, more so nervous of Gunmar and Angor.
“It’s just a few months my boy.” His father reassured him.
A few months?
“What would you like me to bring you home from abroad?” His father then asked. Douxie was thoughtful with his answer, nowadays his father barely brought back any more gifts from his travels. So he decided to enjoy this while it lasted. “You know your brothers…both have asked for weapons and fancy antiques.” Mr. Casperan smiled. “What will you have?”
Douxie smiled at his father, making his decision. “Bring me the first branch your shoulder brushes on your journey.” He said, his father raised an eyebrow.
“That’s a curious request.” He laughed.
“Well, you’ll have to take it with you on your way,” Douxie answered, a fondness in his tone. “And think of me when you look at it, and when you bring it back, it means that you'll be with it.” Mr. Casperan smiled softly at his son as he took his hand. His thumb brushed over the metal band on Douxie’s wrist.
“And that's what I really want. For you to come back. No matter what.” Douxie told his father.
“I will.” His father promised, hugging his son. “Hisirdoux, while I’m away, I want you to be good to your stepmother and step brothers, even though they may be…trying at times.” The man said. Douxie nodded as he pulled away from the hug.
“I promise.” He said.
“I always leave a part of me behind, Hisirdoux.” The older man said, scratching the black beard that he’d let grow out. “Remember that, and your mother's here, too, though you see her not.” He explained to his son, making Douxie feel a spark of sadness. “She's the very heart of this place and that's why we must cherish this house, always, for her.” His smile faded as his eyes wandered to the room around him.
“I miss her.” Douxie spoke softly. “Do you?” He asked his father.
“Very much.”
Douxie doesn’t know how he started crying, but he couldn’t remember the last time his father had held him how he did now. It was nice, refreshing, and comforting. He missed his father and the man he used to be when his mother was alive, it felt like a whole other lifetime now. He wished they could stay like this, forever together reunited by their grief and longing. However Douxie knew better than anyone that every good thing is cut short by something, and that something for this moment was his stepmother knocking on the door.
“I don’t mean to intrude.” The young woman said. Mr. Casperan smiled while Douxie wiped his eyes and stood up.
“No, sorry I should go feed Archie now.” The teen boy said, quickly grabbing his cat and walking out of the room. He avoided brushing his stepmother’s shoulder but she seemed to have other plans and lesser manners than him, it was a solid bump, nothing too hostile but definitely not friendly.
Morgana Le Fey did not take herself for a spiteful woman, but by god, that boy got on her nerves. Everything was about that stupid brat! In her husband's eyes his beautiful son could never do no wrong and it made Morgana certain her new husband would never put her and her sons above him, or on par for that matter.
The boy was a spitting image of his mother. Same gold eyes, dark hair, even smile. She wondered if the boy was even actually Mr. Casperan’s, they shared nothing in physical appearance, however they had the same kindness that made her stomach turn. Do-gooders. He probably wasn’t the old man’s, she didn’t put it past the boy’s wench of a mother to have had an affair.
The day her husband left she found the boy crying to himself in the living room as he read an old book.
“Hisirdoux dear,” the woman said in a voice as soft as silk, she wiped the boy's tears as she held his face. “Now, now. We mustn’t blub.” She told him, and the boy straightened his posture and smiled.
“Yes, Stepmother.” He said, sniffling.
“Oh, you needn’t call me that.” Morgana laughed, letting go of the boy’s handsome face. “Lady Morgana will do.” She smiled, there was something sinister behind it and even Douxie could tell.
Suddenly a loud crash and a frustrated cry that belonged to Angor Rot erupted from upstairs.
“There isn’t room for me and your useless toys!” The red head snarled as he stomped downstairs, his brother following him.
“Well then make yourself smaller you lanky twat!” Gunmar spat as he chased after his angered brother and the two continued to bicker throughout the house. Morgana chuckled at her son’s back and forth.
“Angor and Gunmar have always shared a room. Such dear affectionate boys.” She cooed as her son’s continued to threaten each other’s life.
That is certainly one way to put it. Douxie didn’t say aloud as he heard Gunmar’s angry voice from the dining room.
“Or better yet disappear entirely!” He shouted at Angor and there was a smashing of glass plates.
“You’d like that wouldn’t you!?”
Another crash.
“Sometimes I could gouge your eyes out!”
A bigger crash.
Douxie refrained from rolling his eyes at their antics, they’d been here only a few several months and he was already tired of them.
“I think they find the sleeping quarters rather confining,” Morgana commented. Douxie blinked, remembering his promise to his father.
“Oh, well, my bedroom's the biggest besides yours and Papa’s. Perhaps they'd like to share it.” He offered. Morgana smiled slyly at the offer.
“What a wonderful idea!” She said, gently booping her stepson’s nose. “What a good boy you are.” Douxie forced a smile. Have courage and be kind.
“I’ll stay in the-”
“Attic.” Morgana finished for him. “Quite so.” Douxie looked at her curiously.
“The attic?” He asked, an eyebrow raised.
“Yes.” She reassured him. “Oh, only temporarily, while I have all the other rooms redecorated.” She told him, placing a hand on his shoulder. “The attic's so nice and airy and you'll be away from all of our fuss and bother. You'd be even more cozy if you kept all this bric-a-brac up there with you. Keep you amused.” She said, handing him a tray of his things.
Douxie felt unsure about his stepmother’s true motive but didn’t pry further. He had promised both of his parents. He promised, and he’d be damned if he didn’t keep his promise he made to the people he loved more than anything in the world. So he only nodded and smiled.
As he moved all his belongings to the dusty attic, he looked around. Talk about a fixer upper.
“Well….no one shall disturb me here.” He shrugged as he tried his best to make it feel roomy and to himself. The sound of squeaking however took his attention once he finished setting up his new bed, which was nothing more than a broken headboard and a cot.
“Oh, hello Gus-Gus.” He smiled as the mouse approached the boy. He held out a generous hand which the fat mouse happily crawled into. At least he had company. “So this is where you take refuge.” He said to the mouse. “Me too, it would seem. Right.” He said, setting Gus-Gus down and facing the dirty and dusty room. “Who's going to help me?” He asked, as he noticed Archie enter the attic. He smiled at the cat who walked over to him and rubbed against his leg. “I couldn’t get anything done without you Arch.” He said, the cat meowed in response.
From the bottom of the stairs Gunmar and Angor Rot, listened carefully as their step brother continued to mingle with the animals.
“Ha! Our little brother is talking to woodworms.” Gunmar smirked, making Angor laugh.
“How pleasant.” Douxie hummed as he cleaned. “No loud noises and no stepbrother’s.” He said to Archie.
“We have a halfwit for a brother,” Gunmar told Angor from the bottom of the stairs.
“I’ve got two.” Angor sighed, rolling his eyes.
“I heard that!” Gunmar growled.
“Who is he talking to?” Angor then asked, ignoring his brother. “He’s mad.” The boys laughed as they walked off to enjoy their new room.

—

As the days wore on Douxie did his best to keep himself cheerful without his father around. He helped the maids with their house work, and collected eggs for the cooks so they didn’t have to (while sneaking bites of food they were making). He was always joyful and it perked everyone in the house up as they watched the boy practically beam.
“Hey Zoe.” Douxie smiled as he dropped off the basket of eggs needed for today’s breakfast.
“Thanks Douxie.” The girl smiled, before turning away from the well-stirred bowl of what smelled to be cinnamon pancake batter. Douxie smiled cheekily as he dipped his middle finger in the metal bowl, taking it out just as Zoe turned back around.
“Hisirdoux Casperan!” She shouted as she batted the young boy out of the kitchen with a ladle as he laughed. Yes, mornings were most cheerful for Hisirdoux and his household.
Well, except for his stepbrother’s.
“Wake up boys! It’s breakfast.” Morgana called to her sons, who groaned as they rolled out of bed, groggy and not yet ready to face the day. Morning’s did not agree with Douxie’s stepbrothers, and they lacked accomplishment in such domestic arts as keeping house. In fact, they lacked accomplishment in any art.
“It was a lover and his lass!” Gunmar sang off key as his brother played the piano…badly at that. The sight made Douxie cringe, almost as bad as his ears rang. Archie hissed, pawing at his ears as the two boys continued to sing and make music…if you called it that. Douxie looked pitifully at the two as they continued only to spot Morgana glaring him down, so he fixed his face and quickly left.
“Do shut up!” The woman shouted at her sons after her stepson left.
Douxie’s great comfort were the letters that his father would send from his travels. The weeks away lengthened to months, but every day would bring his thoughts from some distant part.
Until late one afternoon…
“Hisirdoux! It’s the mail coach!” Angor shouted at his stepbrother, who eagerly opened the door, only to find his father’s travel companion. The farmer who lived a few several acres from them.
“Famer John.” Douxie greeted with a smile, but he was only met with a sorrowful look and tear filled eyes.
“Young Hisirdoux…” He started. His tone worried Douxie, and he dreaded the worst. “It’s your father…he took ill on the road.” Douxie could feel his world shattering before the man even finished his sentence. No…please no.
“He’s passed on young man…he’s gone.” Douxie felt as if he’d been physically punched in the stomach as the air around him caught in his throat at the words, the world seemed to stop moving. Not Papa too.
“To the end he only spoke of you…and your mother.” The farmer then reached into a small bag he had with him, retrieving a single thin branch. Douxie could already feel the tears leave his eyes as he took the branch. “I was to give you this.” The farmer told Douxie.
“What of my daggers!?” Douxie heard Angor say from behind him.
“And my amulet!?” Gunmar shouted next. Douxie looked back to his step brothers. Were they serious?
“Can’t you see? None of that matters!” Morgana scolded her sons. Douxie noticed the horrified look on her face, but was foolish to believe it held sorrow for his father. “We’re ruined! How will we live?” The woman shouted angrily as she walked away, her two sons following their mother.
Douxie looked back to Farmer John, who looked at the young boy with empathy and sadness. “Thank you…for staying by his side and getting this to me.” Douxie said, his vision blurring with his tears now coming out faster.
“This must be very difficult for you.” The farmer said before leaving, allowing Douxie to close the door before sinking to the floor and sobbing onto the lone branch he was given. His father had not kept his promise.
“You were supposed to be here.” He sobbed to the branch. “You and Mama.” That day Douxie had experienced true sadness, for he was now alone in the world. Alone with a stepfamily who saw him as nothing but a nuisance. The only people who had truly loved him were now gone, forever and only in death would Douxie see them again. Something in the young boy changed that day…in a way even he couldn’t begin to imagine.

—

Morgana was right. How to live indeed. Economies had to be taken, and Douxie’s stepmother dismissed the household. Afterwards, his stepfamily ever misused him, and by and by they considered Douxie less family than a servant, and so young Douxie was left to do all the work. This was a good thing, for it distracted him from his grief. Much like his father Douxie worked hard to forget his sorrow, how much he missed both of his parents…his old life.
His stepmother and brothers were more than happy to provide Douxie with lots and lots of distractions. Poor boy, they worked him to the bone. In their defense, they did share with him the very food they ate, or rather, the scraps from their table. It wasn’t too bad...overtime it seemed Angor had found pity on young Douxie and often left larger portions of his food for the boy to eat.
“Angor, my dear! You’ve barely eaten! Do you feel alright?” Morgana once asked her son, seeing he barely even touched his dish before handing it to Douxie.
“It’s nothing Mother.” Angor reassured her. “I just hate Hisirdoux’s shit cooking!” He said, shoving the plate into the smaller boy’s arms. It wasn’t enough for Douxie not to dislike the boy, but it indeed made him view him in a different light from his family. After all, it wasn’t his fault he was this way…not with the monster who raised him.
Gunmar on the other hand was not as kind as his brother. He often used his younger stepbrother as a punching bag, messing with him for laughs when he wasn’t busy annoying Angor.
“So skinny you are! You should eat more Hisirdoux!” The boy laughed as he held Douxie in a chokehold. Douxie pounded against the much larger boy’s arm, trying to escape his crushing grasp. He was thrown to the floor coughing as Gunmar laughed above him, cracking his knuckles.
“Careful Gunmar!” Angor said to his brother, grinning as he watched Douxie rub his throat. “Wouldn’t want to break our servant boy!” He cackled as the boys loomed over him, sinister grins plastered on their faces.
Douxie knew better than to complain to Morgana, she’d do nothing. She didn’t care for Hisirdoux, he could die and she’d only fret about not having a servant anymore.
The only thing keeping him comfortable was Archie and the rest of his animal friends. Every night he’d share his scraps with them, seeing no one bought Archie cat food anymore and Douxie had no money for any. He made sure above all else, they were fed and taken care of, even if it meant he went to sleep starving and dirty. Sometimes, by the end of the day, the drafty attic was too cold to spend the night in, so he lay by the dying embers of the hearth to keep warm.
“I thought breakfast was done!” Morgana snarled as she sat at the empty table with Gunmar and Angor sitting across from her.
“It is Lady Morgana.” Douxie said quietly, setting the table. “I only need to set out the plates.” Morgana rolled her eyes in disgust. “In future, can we not be called until the work is done?” She asked, disdain ever so present in her voice. Douxie only nodded, biting his tongue. Oh how he dreamed of telling her and her sons off.
I promised.
“As you wish.” He said through gritted teeth. Morgana then grabbed Douxie’s chin in a swift and rough motion, catching him off guard.
“Hisirdoux, what’s that on your face?” She asked, wiping off what seemed to be black dirt from his forehead.
“My Lady?” He asked, unsure of what she was talking about.
“It’s ash from the fireplace.” Gunmar commented, inspecting his step brother's face closely.
“Do clean yourself up.” Morgana then said, shoving Douxie’s face out of her hand. He stumbled but quickly regained his balance and left the dining room.
“You’ll get cinders in our tea!” Angor shouted at the boy.
“Ha! That would be an improvement! The boy’s so useless he can’t even make a cup of tea right.” Morgana rolled her eyes. Douxie roughly washed the cinder from his face in the kitchen sink, embarrassed and angry. However he could not show it ... .this was his new family and he promised his papa he would take care of them and treat them kindly.
Have courage, be kind.
“I’ve got a new name for him!” Gunmar suddenly shouted from his chair as Douxie returned with their breakfast. “Cindertwat!” He laughed, earning a smile from his mother.
“I couldn’t bear to look so dirty!” Angor commented as Douxie set his bowl of oats in front of him. His nose pointed away from Douxie as if he were some flea.
“Oh! Dirty Douxie!” Gunmar suddenly said, continuing to laugh at his own insults.
“Cinder-Doux!” Angor then suggested, making both boys erupt into a fit of laughter. “That’s what we’ll call you!” Angor smiled as a lone tear fell from his smiling face. It took everything in Douxie not to scowl, so he only sat, ready to eat his breakfast and leave their presence.
“Oh boys, you're too clever!” Morgana laughed, noticing Douxie taking a seat next to her.
“And what are you doing?!” She asked with a disgusted edge in her voice, as if Douxie sitting next to her was something of an insult.
“I’m sitting…” Douxie answered, making Morgana scoff.
“It seems too much to expect you to prepare breakfast, serve it and still sit with us. Wouldn't you prefer to eat when all the work is done, Hisirdoux?” She asked. “Or should I say, Cinderdoux?” She taunted, her sons laughing after her words. Douxie flushed with embarrassment before leaving the table and storming off.
—

Cinderdoux. Names have powers, like magic spells and of a sudden, it seemed to him that his stepmother and stepbrothers had indeed transformed him into merely a creature of ash and toil. After one tiring day however, Douxie decided to take his horse and have a stroll through the neighboring forest near his house. It was a wonderful way to escape his life and the fresh air filled him with optimism and happiness, two things he hadn’t felt in a long time. Perhaps it was just as well that Douxie’s stepbrothers were cruel. For had he not run to the forest, he might never have met the prince.
Prince Krel did not like hunting. He felt it was a vulgar hobby to kill a living thing just for sport, but his older sister, Aja, loved it. She practically dragged him away from his studies and onto his horse, so she, her little brother, and their protector Varvatos Vex could all go hunting for the afternoon. Much to Krel’s disappointment, they found a lone stag running through the forest and pursued it.
Douxie had actually run into the animal before the three hunters could find it and ushered it away, hearing the three close in.
“Go! Go before they find you, my friend!” Douxie warned the animal, who wasted no time in running away from him. Krel then spotted the stag running, but his attention was only captured by the handsome young man it had approached seconds earlier.
“Sir?” Krel spoke, guiding his horse toward the boy and catching Douxie’s attention. “Sir are you alright?” The young prince asked as he approached Douxie, their horses suddenly circling each other in a never ending loop. Douxie looked at him in surprise, he didn’t expect to find a boy so important looking in the woods…or so handsome nonetheless. He blinked as he took in the boy as he was.
He had tan skin as if kissed by the sun itself, and long brown hair, falling onto his shoulders, the color matching his dark eyes that looked at Douxie with curiosity. Douxie liked those eyes. His clothes looked to be made of the most expensive material and sewn to proficiency. His shoes shone in the light of the sun that broke through the branches of trees. He must be important.
“I’m all right, but you nearly frightened the life out of him!” Douxie told the prince.
“Who?” Krel asked, his brow furrowing in confusion.
“That stag you and your friends were chasing. What's he ever done to you that you should chase him about?” Douxie asked, making Krel blush in shame.
“I must admit I've never met him before…is he a friend of yours?” The prince asked.
“An acquaintance. We met just now, I looked into his eyes, and he looked into mine, and I just felt he had a great deal left to do with his life.” Douxie explained, Krel’s face softened at his words and he smiled. “That's all.”
Who was this boy?
“Sir, what do they call you?” Krel asked, hoping for the boy’s name. However Douxie only bit his lip and shook his head.
“Nevermind what they call me.” He told Krel. The answer only kept the prince's interest going.
“You shouldn’t be this deep in the forest alone.” Krel told Douxie. The older boy smiled cheekily.
“I’m not alone. I’m with you, Mister…” Douxie said, trailing off. “What do they call you?” He then asked. Krel laughed in disbelief. Surely he couldn‘t be seriously asking that question.
“You don’t know who I am?” He asked, genuinely curious….yet refreshed that this boy wasn’t acting like this knowing who he truly was. The Prince of Akiridion and the heir to its throne along with his sister.
Krel’s answer made Douxie look at the boy as if studying him, should he have known who he was? He didn’t seem familiar so they’d surely not seen each other before.
“That is…they call me Krel.” Krel said quickly. If Douxie didn’t know who he was then he had no intention of changing that at this moment. He had yet to experience an encounter so genuine with anyone before. While everyone around him saw him as a prince who they treated like a god and treaded lightly with, this boy was himself with the prince and treated him how Krel assumed he treated everyone else.
“And…you live in the palace Mr. Krel?” Douxie asked, allowing their horses to continue to circle each other as he looked into the prince's mesmerizing eyes.
Krel scoffed, surprised. “Ah…yes, how did you know?” He asked, taken aback by the boy's correct assumption.
“Well, you’re an apprentice right?” Douxie asked, he knew only apprentices would be so fancy looking and they all lived in the palace. Krel shrugged with a nod.
“Of a sort.” He said. Douxie smiled.
“That's very fine. Do they treat you well?” He asked and Krel nodded.
“Better than most.” He admitted, yeah everyone in that castle practically kissed his feet, all except Aja and his father. It was annoying but expected, somedays he could relate to Aja’s wish to not be a royal. Then maybe he could truly see what others felt about him.
“And you?”
Douxie shrugged, his eyes dimming and sorrow filling the gold of his irises. It made the prince’s heart hurt.
“They treat me as well as they are able.” He said, his words were hoarse and full of pain. Krel wished to reach out to the boy, give him reassurance.
“I’m sorry..” He said softly. Douxie smiled softly at the apology but shook his head.
“It’s not your doing.”
“Nor yours I bet.”
Douxie felt his cheeks flush as those words left the prince’s mouth. No one had shown such empathy and kindness to him in a long time. It was like the warmth of a fire after a long day in the snow.
“It’s not so very bad.” He lied. Douxie would feel bad if he made such a kind stranger worry over him. “Others have it worse I’m sure.” He looked down to his metal band, running his hand over it with a smile.
“We must…simply have courage and be kind, mustn’t we?” He asked looking back up to Krel. Something in Krel’s heart sang as he heard those words. He could tell if nothing else that this boy had been through pain, that he’d experienced true sorrow. Yet he still stayed ever so kind to the world and other’s. He was strong..worthy and virtuous. It charmed the prince, something no one had ever done before.
“Yes. You're right.” Krel said lovingly. “That's exactly how I feel.” Suddenly the sound of Varvatos and Aja came from behind them. Douxie looked at where the voices were then back to the prince.
“Please don't let them hurt him.” He said, a pleading look in his eyes.
“But we're hunting, you see.” Krel explained, he wasn’t sure he could stop Aja, but he was positive he couldn’t stop Varvatos’s bloodlust. “It's what's done.”
“Just because it's what's done doesn't mean it's what should be done.” Douxie said sternly, taking Krel aback once more. He smiled, impressed by the bounds of Douxie’s kindness and care.
“Right again.”
“Then, you'll leave him alone, won't you?”
“I will.”
Douxie smiled, making Krel’s heart flutter at the sight.
“Thank you very much, Mr. Krel.”
The sound of hooves grabbed both boy’s attention. Krel turned his head and saw Aja and Varvatos staring at him with Douxie.
“Little brother!” Aja smiled.
“Ah! There you are, your high-” Varvatos started, only to be cut off by a shouting Krel.
“IT’S KREL!” He said, making Varvatos look at him surprised. “Krel! Krel!” He said, trying to give both his sister and bodyguard a hint. “Yes, I’m Krel….I’m on my way.” The prince said, steering his horse back towards the other two hunters. Aja giggled as she noticed Douxie and Varvatos only rolled his eyes.
“Well…Varvatos and your sister would like to return to our activities…young Krel.” Varvatos said as the prince came to his side.
“Ugh, no! I would like to go home! The animal is long gone anyway.” Krel groaned as the three walked away. Douxie giggled at Krel’s exasperated tone. A tad dramatic wasn’t he?
“Whatever you say, Krel.” Varvatos said, emphasizing the prince’s name. Krel rolled his eyes and Aja continued giggling as she looked back at Douxie for the last time before he was obscured from their view.
Krel did wish he’d get to see him again soon.
Douxie also wished to see the prince again.

—

“You sound as if you were the first person to meet a handsome boy.” Aja chuckled as soon as she and Krel entered his study. Krel had spent the trip back telling Aja all about this mystery commoner he’d talked to in the woods.
“He wasn’t just a “handsome boy”! Well, he was a handsome boy, but there was so much more to him.” Krel told his sister as he paced back and forth.
“How much more? You’ve only met him once!” The girl exclaimed. She’d never seen her brother like this before about anyone. For as long as she could remember her little brother was repulsed by the thought of romance and never put much thought into pursuing a relationship. It truly made her wonder about this farm boy who’d caught her brother’s attention after speaking with him for only a few minutes.
“You told me you knew right away when you met Steve!” Krel said. Aja blushed at the mention of the knight.
“That’s different…I kicked his ass and something suddenly changed between us.” She swooned. Krel rolled his eyes before realizing he wasn’t any better.
“Though Papa will never approve…” His sister sighed disappointed. “He’s a knight, not a prince.” Krel shrugged.
“It’s not like Papa wasn’t being a little rebellious marrying Mama.” He pointed out, making Aja smile. It was true. King Fialkov broke his own arranged marriage just to marry Queen Coranda. However his father, Aja and Krel’s grandfather, had allowed it because Coranda was a princess. Truly a love story for the ages, one that made Aja wish for a love like theirs and Krel gag at its sappiness.
Suddenly the doors to Krel’s study were thrown open, revealing King Fialkov with the Royal adviser Loth Saborian and General Val Morando by his side.
“Papa!” Aja said surprised, both her and Krel giving shallow bows to the king.
“What is this about Krel meeting a boy in the woods?” The king asked sternly, eyeing his son in the most condescending way.
Varvatos! Ay yi yi!
“I-it was nothing, Papa! They were simply having a conversation-” Aja tried only for Krel to shake his head at her. There was no doubt if Aja explained the whole situation to their father it’d be dismissed. He adored Aja despite her rebellious tendencies…no matter what he was told Krel knew she was the favorite royal among the people and his father.
“I met him while we were hunting, Papa…he was quite charming.” Krel explained, his father raised an eyebrow.
“And I don’t suppose he was a royal of nobility?” He asked. Krel opened his mouth to speak, however before he could General Morando stepped in.
“Who cares if he was royalty?!” The man asked incredulously. “He’s not a princess, a girl.” He spat out. Aja frowns and Krel folds his arms, and anyone who knows Krel knows he’s quite serious when that happens.
“It really wouldn’t matter if it were a girl or General Morando. The whole encounter is entirely none of your concern.” He said.
“Your business is my business, Your Royal Highness!” Morando countered, before sticking his finger at the prince. “And how you represent this kingdom with your fraternizations is of the utmost importance to me.”
“Represent? Everyone knows! It’s not exactly a well kept secret if you think that!” Krel said, throwing his hands up.
“Your kind have always shown no remorse in your actions!” The General hissed as the prince glared at him.
“Silence! Both of you!” King Fialkov shouted, shutting both of them up. He then looked back to Aja.
“Aja…can you tell me what happened?” He asked, in a tone gentle and soft. Aja stuttered looking over to her brother, she knew it’d be disrespectful to outright ignore her father’s order but this was Krel’s story to tell.
“Hey! I talked to him! Not her!” Krel barked at his father, who looked back at his youngest child. “We talked! So what?! What is the klebbing problem with me finding a farm boy attractive?!” Krel could feel the air around him grow with tension. It was as if saying it out loud, put everything King Fialkov and the royal court feared into reality. Even though it’d been reality since Krel was eight and blushing over knights.
King Fialkov cleared his throat.
“Krel, we’re only thinking towards the future, and YOU as the future King of Akiridion, must attract a suitable bride.” He said those last words in emphasis and it made Krel want to explode.
“I won’t be happy with a bride!” Krel shot back, his tone making Aja nervous.
“Krel, we don’t have time for this!” His father pleaded. “In fact! I’ve made a decision.” He suddenly announced. “And this concerns both of you.” He said, now looking at both his children.
“I have decided that we should hold a ball to find both of you spouses.” He announced.
“WHAT!?” Krel and Aja shout at the same time.
“It’s a beloved tradition.” Loth spoke from the King’s left. “And dare I say you two might enjoy yourselves at a party.” Krel huffed, Aja was the social one. SHE liked parties, Krel preferred to stay in his room and work on his inventions and mechanics.
“I will not enjoy myself at a party where I will be shown off like some pretty trinket!” Aja growled and Krel nodded, happy his sister had the same opinion about this. Of course it probably had to do with the fact that at this party their father will be giving her away to a prince.
“If I must marry, could I not wed, say, a good honest country boy?” Krel asked, mostly to piss more people off than to actually suggest the notion.
“How many divisions will this "good, honest country boy" provide us?” Morando asked. “How will he make the kingdom stronger?” Krel rolled his eyes, it was always about power with Morando. That was all he seemed to care about, how much power Akiridion held to other kingdoms.
“We are a small kingdom amongst great states, Your Royal Highness.” He went on. “And it's a dangerous world.” King Fialkov nodded.
“He proves a point my children ... .and more than anything I want to see you and the kingdom safe and settled.” He said, his tone softer now. Krel didn’t budge, still frowning, however Aja sighed.
“Fine, Papa…we’ll do the ball.” She said, making Krel look back at her with a glare. “On one condition!” She then added. “Let the invitations go out to everybody, not just nobility.”
“Aja-”
“Please Papa?” She pouted, batting her eyelashes. Her special move when she wanted something from Papa. “It would be noble not to exclude!” She added, making King Fialkov sigh. He then turned to look at Loth and Morando.
“What do you think? Would that please the people?” He asked, Loth chuckled.
“It is beyond my wit, your majesty, but I wouldn’t mind!” He shrugged. Morando only shook his head and grumbled.
Krel smiled and looked at Aja who winked.
“Alright then!” The king said, turning back to his children and clapping his palms together.
“We must ready you two for the royalty we will be expecting!” He said, before ushering them out of the prince’s study, a spark of hope flaring in Krel.
He didn’t want to believe too much, then maybe his spark might be extinguished as quickly as it was brought. Yet if this farm boy was from his kingdom maybe, just maybe…

—

“Geez Doux! You don’t look too good.” Zoe said, as she walked with Douxie in the market. She’d run into him while the girl was shopping for crystals and Douxie was going to the bakery for Morgana. “Not at all…” She added. She wasn’t wrong, there were cinder’s all over the boy's face and a bit on his clothes, he looked tired and pale, thin and almost scrawny. It made Zoe worry. “Why do you stay there when they treat you so?”
Douxie smiled at her thoughtfulness. Out of everyone, she knew how horrible Morgana and her son’s were the most. Zoe had been the daughter of a maid that had worked in the Casperan household and so the two grew up together, often playing in the garden when Zoe wasn’t busy helping her mother. When everyone was dismissed she hated leaving Douxie to stay with a woman so cruel.
“Because I made my Mama and Papa a promise to cherish the place we were so happy.” He explained. “They loved our house...and now that they're gone, I love it for them.” Zoe tutted.
“Come on Doux…that really can’t be it! Come live with me and my mother, or at least run while you can!” Zoe practically pleaded. Douxie shook his head, he promised and he would keep every single promise he made to his parents.
“It's my home, Zoe…I can’t leave.”
“Hear ye! Hear ye!” A voice shouted, interrupting their conversation. Zoe and Douxie turned to look and found an announcer standing in the middle of the square, holding what looked to be a scroll. The man waited for complete silence before he cleared his throat and spoke.
"Know, on this delson, two wardons hence, there shall be held, at the palace, a Royal Ball. At said ball, in accordance with ancient custom, the prince and princess shall choose a spouse.” The man announced, the last bit truly capturing the audience's attention. "Furthermore, at the behest of the royals, it is hereby declared that every maiden and bachelor in the kingdom, be they noble or commoner...is invited to attend. Such is the command of our most noble king." The crowd erupted into streams of conversation, many asking questions, others excited to attend the ball, a few even stating the wish to win the heart of a royal.
However Douxie’s mind was completely elsewhere as he registered the message. Noble and commoner alike. Meaning Krel might be there. He smiled.
“Sorry Zo! I gotta run!” Douxie said, abandoning his task of getting baguettes from the bakery.
“Hisirdoux Casperan! Don’t think I’m through with talking to you about this!” The girl shouted after her friend as he ran back home. He only laughed. It had been a while since Douxie had wanted to get back home so fast, he even took a shortcut to save time. He was actually excited to see his stepfamily and deliver the news, he just prayed to whatever god was up in the skies that he’d be able to go.
As he got home, almost ran into Angor with his excitement, who scowled as he approached Morgana who was sitting with Gunmar. As Douxie explained the news it was hard to keep in how enormously excited he was to possibly see Krel, the apprentice again. However, his stepbrothers were mildly intrigued by the notion of meeting the princess.
“I shall trick her into loving me!” Gunmar announced as Morgana’s face twisted into a shocked smile, excitement dancing between her eyes.
“This is the most hugest news!” Angor added as he and his brother kept gasping.
“Calm yourselves.” Morgana instructed her sons, who quieted down as she approached them. “Now listen to me. One of you must win the heart of the princess.” She explained, holding both Angor and Gunmar’s face with each hand. “Do that, and we can unwind the debt in which we were ensnared when we came to this backwater!” She laughed, as Gunmar beamed brightly.
“I, a prince?” He asked before Angor butted in.
“Or rather, I, a prince?” Angor said, both boys obviously overjoyed at the thought. Morgana then turned to look back at Douxie who was still standing in the entryway of the living room.
“Having delivered your news, why are you still here?” She snarled at the boy. “You must return to town right away and tell that seamstress to run us up three fine outfits.” She instructed.
“Three?” Douxie asked, not letting his hopes get too far.
“Poor slow little Cinders, yes three! Can’t you count!?” Angor snapped at him.
“One for Gunmar, Angor, and me!” Morgana said as she motioned to her two sons and herself.
“Mother…I think he wants to go to the ball!” Gunmar then laughed, as a sheepish Douxie nodded.
“You are too ambitious for your own good boy!” Morgana said. “The princess wouldn’t even look your way!” Douxie shook his head.
“No, no, no Lady Morgana.” He reassured her. “I just want to see my friend.” He promised. Douxie was in no way interested in wooing a princess, he had his sights set on seeing Krel again.
“Friend?” Angor asked. “And what friends do you have other than the animals you sleep with?” He laughed.
“Well-”
“Enough!” Morgana said, raising a hand to stop the boy from talking. “I don’t care how you met this non-existent friend, but hear me clearly!” She told Douxie.
“A gown for me, and two suits for Gunmar and Angor.” She said, throwing a bag of krestons at him. Douxie scoffed, catching the bag.
“Why would you need a dress? Aren’t you a bit old for a prince?” He asked, sarcasm dripping from his words. Angor blinked, he was shocked Douxie assumed. Gunmar stifled a slight snicker while Morgana’s face turned red.
“How dare you-” Morgana spoke before Angor stepped in and grabbed Douxie by the collar of his shirt.
“Getting clever with that tongue of yours!” He snarled. “If you're not careful I’ll cut it out!” Douxie didn’t doubt it, Angor had a lovely collection of daggers in his room. He’d always itched for an excuse to use them. He let poor Douxie go and the boy walked off to go get what his stepfamily had asked.

—

“Krel!” Aja said, shaking her brother out of his daze.
“What, Aja?” Krel asked, the two siblings sat next to each other in the sparring room, as Varvatos demonstrated a maneuver he said ‘will bring a glorious end to any opponent.’ Aja looked at her brother amused.
“Good Gaylen! I understand you’ve never liked training, but it’s almost like you’ve completely checked out of reality, little brother.” She explained. Krel shrugged.
“Sorry…I don’t mean to worry you.” He apologized.
“I’m not worried…but ever since the hunt—no ever since that BOY you’ve been acting differently!” She said,
“I can’t stop thinking about him.” Krel confessed, it wasn’t like him to deny the obvious and truth.
“But there are plenty of boys…what’s so special about this farm boy?”
“What’s so special about an oaf like Steve?”
“Touche.” Aja laughed as she punched Krel’s arm playfully. He sighed, and it further amused and shocked Aja. This could NOT be her little brother! The boy who had complained everytime she dreamily talked about Steve. The boy who was disgusted by the kissing tree out in the forest. The boy who understood someone like him would never be as accepted as Aja would be with a boy.
In fact deep down Krel had come to terms with the fact that he probably would never marry for love ... .but now…
“His spirit, his goodness...his character was most admirable.” Krel explained. “I could just tell how smart and strong he was.” Aja laughed.
“You talk as if you're in love~” She sang sweetly.
“I wouldn’t rule it out…however I know very little about him.” Krel said, a sadness edging at his voice.
“Perhaps the mystery boy will come to the ball!” Aja said, trying to cheer her brother up. “That is in fact why I suggested the ball be open to all.” Krel gasped in feign shock.
“Princess Aja! How shallow of you to manipulate our noble king for selfish reasons!” He teased her, making Aja roll her eyes.
“It shall also benefit the people…while benefiting you, little brother.” She smiled. “I want to see you happy Krel, and if a commoner brings you joy! Then I shall be happy for you!” Krel smiled at his sister’s words, what would he do without Aja?
“And if he does come?” Krel asked.
“Oh, it’ll be fun to formally meet the boy who has my brother so love struck!” She laughed. “Tell him you're a prince, a prince that gets to choose anyone to marry!” Krel laughed at her words. “Now what is so funny!?” Aja asked.
“Like Papa and Morando would even let me! The moment the ball starts the two of them will set me up with a royal! A princess at that!” Krel told her.
“Well, if this boy from the forest is as charming as you say, they may change their minds.” Aja shrugged, oh how Krel wished that could work.
“PRINCE KREL AND PRINCESS AJA!” Varvatos shouted at the twins, who stiffened as the large warrior approached them. “Varvatos advises his royals to pay attention to his teachings if you ever wish to know how to take down your enemy and give them glorious death!” He explained, laughing maniacally towards the end.

—

The delson of the ball came and the entire kingdom held its breath in anticipation. Douxie helped his step brothers get ready as the time for the ball drew nearer. Both excited and trying to look their best in their suits, tailored to perfection.
“Think of it! Me, a king!” Gunmar said, as Douxie handed him his white dress shirt.
“Well brother.” Angor said, motioning for Douxie to come tie his shoes. Douxie quickly did so as the boy continued. “We must compete for the princess’s hand, but let it not mean we harbor dark thoughts against each other!” He smiled, a fake one, at his brother.
“Of course not dear brother!” Gunmar said as Douxie helped put on his suit’s coat and button it. “I should not fantasize about bashing your head against the wall before we leave.” He said.
“Nor I of slitting your throat in the carriage!” Angor smiled.
“Or I of throwing you out of the moving carriage when we pass a ravine.” Gunmar sang.
As the brother’s went back and forth, Douxie was disturbed by the creative threats but he felt true pity for the two brothers, it wasn’t the first time he did, but it raged greatly this time.
“Cinderdoux! Quit gawking and help me find my gloves!” Gunmar snapped at Douxie who nodded and quickly scoured the messy room.
“I wonder what the royal siblings will be like.” Douxie said, from the floor.
“What does it matter, they're rich! The princess is sure to be beautiful too!” Gunmar said.
“Wouldn’t you like to know more about a person before you marry them?” Douxie asked.
“Surely not! Women talk too much if given the chance, might make me change my mind.” Angor scoffed, earning a nod from Gunmar. Douxie rolled his eyes.
“I bet you’ve never even talked to someone in such a high class!” Gunmar taunted.
“Yes I have.” Douxie explained, as he found the white gloves that belonged to his stepbrother. “A gentleman.” He said, thinking back to Krel as he handed Gunmar the gloves.
“Some 'prentice no doubt.” He snarled, snatching the gloves.
“Yes..he was an apprentice. He was upper class no less and truly a remarkable one.” Douxie explained, a softness in his words.
“Whatever you queer!” Angor spat. “We didn’t ask for you to go all mushy about some boy!” Douxie sighed and nodded as he finished helping his stepbrother’s get ready.
Afterwards he slowly slipped back upstairs into the attic. If Morgana wouldn’t buy him a new suit for the ball he’d have to fix up one of his father’s old ones. Douxie didn’t mind, It’d be nice to have a piece of him tonight. He tried remembering every single teaching Zoe had guided him through when she taught him to sew when they were twelve.
“Arch could you-” Douxie asked only to look up and find the cat with the spindle of thread in his mouth. “Ah yes…thank you.” He smiled, taking it. By the time he was finished…well it definitely wasn’t as grand as Gunmar’s or Angor’s but it looked great to Douxie.
Morgana sat near the window as she awaited her sons. She was dressed in a long, flowing dress that latched tightly to her body, showing off her curves and figure. It was a beautiful green and gold that matched the feather she had in her hair which was woven into a tight bun, and light makeup decorated her already beautiful face. As she saw Gunmar and Angor enter the living room she reached her gloved hands out towards the two boys.
“My dear boys. To see you like this...it makes me believe one of you might just snare the princess.” She smiled lovingly at them. “And to think I have two horses in the race! I daresay no one in the kingdom will outshine my sons.” Her face suddenly dropped into shock as she looked behind her sons.
“Cinderdoux…” She said as she looked at the young man who wore his father’s old suit. It fit snugly thanks to a little altering and it didn’t look half as old as it was. It suited the young man and he wore it with pride, he looked handsome.
Much to Morgana’s disappointment she thought so as well.
“It didn’t cost you anything.” The boy reassured her. “It was my fathers.” Angor whistled unimpressed while Gunmar laughed.
“A servant boy at the ball! No one would want you as a groom.” He said as he and Angor stepped forward towards him. Douxie tensed, on his guard for whatever they might do.
“After all I’ve done-” Morgana started.
“I’m not after the princess and they said anyone can attend, by order of the king!” Douxie said, cutting off his stepmother.
“You would sully our king’s very name just by showing your face!” Morgana told Douxie who clenched his fists before he noticed something about Morgana. Those earrings.
“Where did you get those?” He suddenly asked her. The woman looked confused until Douxie pointed to the yellow earrings decorating her ears. “What are you doing wearing those?!” He asked, now shouting. How dare she. He could take everything thrown at him, but he’d be damned if this woman would sully his mother’s memory by taking her belongings.
“Oh these? They are rather beautiful?” She said with a knowing smile. “I found them the other day and I thought it’d be a waste to have them just sit in a box forever.” Douxie almost saw red as he walked over to Morgana, only to be blocked by her two sons.
“Take them off! They aren’t yours!” He shouted at her. She laughed.
“As if you could make me! They’re mine now!” Morgana taunted him.
“They are my mothers! Papa gifted them to her when he came back from Paris!” Douxie shouted at the woman, only for Gunmar and Angor to pull him away from their mother.
“Well your mother is gone! So is your ‘Papa’!” She snarled. She took in the boy as he was, hatred filling her heart to the brim. “And these old rags! Your father was a man of tacky taste!” She reached over and tore the sleeve. “He wouldn’t know fashion if it hit him in the face! Guess the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree!” She cackled, as she continuously tore his suit, Gunmar and Angor being quick to help her, holding the boy down.
Douxie felt red hot with anger as the people who had tormented him for years began tearing at his dreams. This wasn’t fair! He had been nothing but kind and all they had done was hurt him and crush his spirit. He was so sick of it! He couldn’t take it anymore.
Then he suddenly felt a spark. The same spark he’d felt when Mama had died. The same one he’d felt after hearing Papa had died while he was away. The same spark he felt when he was with Krel. Only this time it grew…and it grew big, it was almost unbearable! Douxie felt he was going to explode as he shut his eyes and screamed.
“LET GO OF ME!” Then as if on command, the hands that were once pinning him down and tearing at his clothes vanished. There was silence before Douxie opened his eyes again. Angor and Gunmar were on the floor and Morgana stood back, mouth wide open and eyes wide in shock. What had happened?
“What have you done? What did you do to them!?” Morgana shrieked as she looked over at her two sons, who were now stirring.
“Mother…” Angor groaned as he sat up, holding his head.
“Yes my champion!? What is it?!” Morgana asked him, careful not to touch him.
“What the fuck was that!?” Gunmar said, standing up too quickly and toppling over.
“Oh my poor baby!” Morgana said, catching her younger son. Douxie was beyond confused. He was so uncertain about what happened, had he done this? Him…scrawny little Cinderdoux layed out absolute beasts like Angor and Gunmar?
“What was that blue light?” Angor asked, still sitting on his butt with eyes wide and dazed.
“You!” Morgana said charging at Douxie. “How dare you!” She growled before slapping the boy clear across his face. The sound of the coach waiting outside was the only thing to distract her from rage.
“Oh no! Boys, get up! Get up!” Morgana said, ushering the boys from where they were.
“Mommy, I don’t feel good.” Gunmar groaned while Angor stood, blinking his eyes as he cautiously looked at Douxie.
“Get up! Get up!” Morgana shouted, pulling Gunmar to his feet. The boy reluctantly did so and Morgana only spared Douxie a glance. “I’m not finished with you boy! Just wait till I come home!” She told him, and with that the three left. Douxie didn’t move until he heard them leave and let the quiet of the house settle.
Then he sobbed. He shook as he fell to his knees and cried, weeping like he was a small child again. Douxie didn’t normally cry this hard when his stepfamily hurt him, and he didn’t know if it was because the slap had really stung or the fact everything he’d wanted to work out just hadn’t.
Life never got better, his stepfamily were still and probably always would be monsters. He’d never become anything more than a servant working to the bone for people who treated him like dirt. His only friends would stay animals until even they left him whether it be in death or by choice. The one person he thought he could connect with he’d probably never see again which led to his last bit of happiness to be crushed.
“I’m sorry Mama.” He cried. “I tried…I tried my best for both you and Papa.” He then stood up, walking outside to be in his garden, their garden. The one with such great memories of his golden childhood. “I said I'd have courage, but I don't. I tried to be kind and take care of them, but I have nothing left!” He said, speaking as if either of his parents were there. “Not anymore. I don't believe anymore.” He sniffled as he continued to cry.
“Excuse me.” The voice of an old man said, startling Douxie out of his tears. He turned around to find an old man in rags sitting near the statue that stood in the center of the garden. He was dirty and sickly thin, dark bags painted his eyes, and his gray beard was unkempt and stained with grime. “Can you help me sir?” The man asked, his voice was hoarse and small. “Just a little crust of bread? Or better, a bowl of milk?” He asked. Douxie blinked, he wiped his tears feeling a bit embarrassed.
“Yes…yes I’m sure I can find you something.” He told the man, his voice quivered but he quickly pushed his sadness down. He had a lesser mind to tell the man to go away because of the mood he was in, but the poor man didn’t deserve that. It wasn’t his fault Douxie had a shit life. He quickly went inside and returned with a small piece of bread.
“Why are you crying?” The man asked as he took the bread.
“It’s nothing.” Douxie quickly answered. He didn’t want to linger on what had happened.
“Nothing?”
“Nothing.”
The man gave a sharp and small laugh. He took a bite of the bread and smiled at Douxie who in turn managed a smile as well.
“What is a piece of bread? Nothing.” He said. “But kindness makes it everything.” The piece of bread is small and the man finishes it quickly. “Now, I don't mean to hurry you, but you really haven't got long, Hisirdoux.” He said, getting up and looking at the young man. Douxie’s eyes widen.
“How do you know me?” He asked, he’d certainly never seen this old fart in his life. “Who are you?” He asked the man. The old man laughed.
“Oh come on, Hisirdoux! You're a smart boy! Should think you worked that one out.” He said, cracking his back. “I’m your godfather!” He announced.
“My godfather!?” Douxie asked, surprised.
“Well I’m moreso a wizard-”
“A WIZARD!?”
“Yes, now would you stop shouting!?” The old man frowned. Douxie scoffed, he didn’t know how to feel.
“You CAN’T be a wizard! Or my godfather!” The boy insisted and the old man crossed his arms.
“And why not!?” He asked, almost offended.
“Because wizards aren't real! MAGIC isn’t real!” Douxie told him. “And I’ve never met you in my life!” The man laughed.
“No such thing as magic eh? Well then how do you explain what you did back in there?” Douxie paused.
“You were watching me?”
“My boy, you may not know me but I’ve known you for a long time.” The man said, he then walked past the young boy and into the clearing that was the backyard of the house. “Now allow me to slip into something more comfortable and less degrading.” He said.
Suddenly in a whir of green light the man transformed. His beard was now clean and neatly cut, he was no longer in dirty rags but instead armor that resembled that of a knight, except black. He held a staff with a pretty green gem and turned back to Douxie.
“That’s better.” The old man said.
“How did you-” Douxie started to say as he stepped closer.
“Now, what was that about magic?” The old man laughed at the shocked look on Douxie’s face. “You know if you wanted I could help you learn to use yours.” The man offered.
“Mine?” Douxie asked.
“I really hope you don’t believe it was your physical strength that got those boys off of you!” The man chuckled. “You have potential, Hisirdoux, but I’m getting ahead of myself! I need to get you to that ball!” He said before walking off towards the garden's vegetables.
Douxie hurriedly followed the man, his shock still visible as the man looked around.
“I’m looking for something that’d suffice as a coach.” The wizard commented, tapping his bearded chin.
“Uh…the trough?” Douxie suggested.
“You really want to go to the castle in that?” The man asked, he then looked around once again. “Do you grow watermelon?” He asked.
“No…” Douxie said.
“Cantaloupe?”
“I don’t even know what that is…”
“Artichoke?”
“No.”
Kumquat?
“No.”
“Beef tomato?”
Douxie shook his head and the old man shook his staff frustrated. “By the seven rings boy! What do you have!?” He asked, rubbing his temple.
“We do have pumpkins…” Douxie shrugged, pointing to the greenhouse.
“Ah, that’ll have to do.” He said, making his way over. “This will be a first for me but I believe I can do this.” He said, standing in front of a large pumpkin. “Alright boy, pick this up and take it outside for me.” He instructed Douxie. Douxie wasted no time and lugged the heavy vegetable out to the backyard so the wizard could have more room to work his magic. He spoke a simple incantation and the pumpkin was swept in a green swirl of magic, transforming it into a grand looking carriage. Better than the one Morgana and his stepbrother’s left in.
“You really are a wizard…and my godfather...A FAIRY GODFATHER!?” Douxie marveled. The wizard groaned.
“Your mother told you that I forgot! I am not a fairy! I am a wizard young man!” He told Douxie.
“How did you know my mother told me that?” Douxie asked.
“She called me that upon deeming me your godfather.” The old man answered. “Boy, do you think I became your godfather by accident? I knew your parents obviously.” He said, exasperated.
“Well….they never mentioned you…” Douxie confessed. The wizard sighed.
“I suppose they passed before there was a good time to introduce us.” He said. “You’re mother was a great woman, I’m sure she would have loved to tell you about me. A lover of fairy tales but she was always a firm believer in magic.” He explained. “You’re father was brave and kind like you, back in Paris he helped aid me in a quest. A quest that granted him that magical artifact around your wrist.”
Douxie looked down at the metal band on his wrist. “This is a magical artifact?” He asked.
“Indeed, those runes carved in it help draw out one's magical abilities. I’m surprised it took this long though, you should have grown into yours years ago.” Douxie smiled.
“I have magic?” He laughed, earning a nod. “Wow!” The wizard chuckled.
“Now! Where’s that cat of yours?” He asked.
“Archie?” Douxie asked. The cat meowed from the statue, looking curiously at Douxie and the visitor. “What do you want with him?” He asked.
“This.” The wizard simply stated before speaking an incantation and waving his wand at the cat. Archie hissed as the spell hit him, but the hiss quickly turned to a yelp. A human sounding yelp. Where a cat once stood was a tan skinned man, not much older than Douxie with black hair bound in a ponytail and glasses perched on his nose. He was dressed in a fancy suit, with the shiniest shoes.
“Archie!?” Douxie asked and the man looked at him.
“Douxie?” Archie…Archie said.
“Arch…you can talk!?” Douxie said.
“Well I could always talk, Douxie! What do you think all those ‘meows’ were?” The cat–er–man said.
“You’re human!” The boy said. Archie looked at his human body, studying his hands and hair thoughtfully.
“Seems I am.” He laughed.
“Alright, good show!” The old wizard said. “Now we need horses...Mice! Where are the mice!?” He said. Gus-Gus, Jaqueline, along with their friends stood near the carriage looking at it with awe in their tiny eyes.
“There you are!” He once again spoke ancient words and waved his staff, making four white charger’s appear. Douxie gasped, smiling in disbelief as he petted the one on the left in the front.
“Gus-Gus how fine you look!” He complimented the horse.
“Alright, got a carriage, horses, footman…now I need that coachman!” The wizard snapped his fingers.
“Coachman?”
“Did I say coachman? I meant goose!” The old man said quickly turning the goose wandering around the field into a human coachman.
“I can’t drive! I’m a goose!” The coachman said incredulously as he found himself sitting in the front of the carriage.
“Well for now you are but a humble coachman!” Douxie’s godfather explained to the poor animal and now human. “And you will drive my godson to the ball.” Douxie could not believe what was happening. Magic! Right before his very eyes, just like Mama had believed!
“Everyone in place, no time to be lost! Come on!” The old wizard instructed the new carriage staff. Everyone quickly got where they needed to be when Douxie realized something.
“Uh….Mister….Godfather, sir.” Douxie started, making his godfather turn towards him.
“My name is Merlin, young Hisirdoux.”
“Uh…right, Merlin, um well my suit.” He explained, motioning to the wreck his stepfamily (and a bit of his magic) had left. “Can you mend it?” He asked. Merlin frowned, almost looking offended.
“Are you underestimating my skill, boy? Mend it? No, no, I'll turn it into something new.” He said, ready to once again wave his staff.
“Oh, no, please don't!” Douxie begged, waving his hands. “This was my father's, Mama made and gifted it to him on his birthday.” He explained. “And I'd like to wear it when I go to the palace. It's almost like taking both of them with me.” Merlin’s expression softened.
“You truly have your father’s heart and mother’s radiance.” He chuckled. “I understand, but you wouldn't mind if I gee it up a bit? Wouldn't mind a nice blue?” He then asked, Douxie shook his head. A little more mending couldn’t hurt, at heart it would still be his father’s and mother’s tribute.
In a haze of green magic, Merlin waved his staff and it enveloped his godson, but not without Douxie’s own magic reacting. He gasped as he felt something new in him unlock, a new caliber of magic he couldn’t have found without Merlin. Once the flashing of green and blue stopped Douxie gawked.
His suit jacket was long, traveling down his back and it was a nice blue with white embroidery decorating the shoulders, lower sleeves, and sides, giving a sense of elegance and class to his new look. He wore a vest of the same color except gold trimmings found it’s beauty here, along with a new white undershirt that matched the fancy kerchief around his neck where a lovely blue brooch fit snugly against his throat. To top it off he had the finest looking blue pants and black sparkling shoes.
“No…” The boy grinned in disbelief. Looking up at Merlin the boy noticed the different pigment of color in his bangs. He grabbed his hair to find the tips entirely blue, matching his outfit. Woah.
“There.” Merlin said, satisfied with his work.
“I love it!” The boy exclaimed, looking like a kid who had just opened their dream present on Christmas. “They would have too!” He smiled.
“Now, come on.” Merlin ushered the boy, who quickly followed the wizard with a new pep in his step. “Off you go. Quick! You'll be late!” He pestered him as he and Archie helped the boy into the carriage.
“Wait!” Merlin said, grabbing ahold of Douxie’s bare hand roughly.
“What is it, Godfather?” Douxie asked curiously. He noticed Merlin looking at his hands so the boy mimicked. Douxies hands were definitely rough looking, but five years of hard working labor and abuse would do that to anyone. There were multiple scars from cuts and scabs that weren’t treated right and several red rashes from burns, his nails were chipped and overall it made Merlin repulsed by Morgana and her sons even more than he already was.
“We have got to hide these.” Merlin announced.
“No, it’s fine Godfather, you’ve done plenty.” Douxie reassured the old man.
“No, they'll ruin the whole look. Quick, quick.” He beckoned for the boy’s other hand. “Really quite hideous.” Merlin commented as he stood face to face with Douxie, holding both of his hands. “Let's have something new for a change. I’m rather good with gloves if I do say so myself…” He chuckled, and in an instant Douxie’s hands were covered by the softest fabric he’d ever felt and he watched in awe as two beautiful white gloves appeared on his hands.
“You’ll find them quite comfortable.” Merlin smiled, and let go of the young boy’s hands, allowing him to marvel at them. “Hisirdoux, you really must go now.” He reminded the boy.
“Oh, Godfather?” Douxie spoke looking a tad bit worried. “My stepmother and brother’s will be there…what if they see me?”
“Don't worry.” Merlin said, lifting his staff before gently bringing it to the ground letting off a wave of green dust on Douxie.
“I'll make sure they don't recognize you. Now, off you go.” Merlin said, helping Douxie into the carriage. “For you shall go to the ball! As your godfather I demand this of you!” He shouted. Before the carriage left Merlin disappeared with a warning.
“Remember Hisirdoux, the magic will only last so long, with the last echo of the last bell, at the last stroke of midnight, the spell will be broken and all will return to what it was before.” Merlin explained. “And you MUST be home by then understand? No matter what.” Douxie blinked and his wizard godfather was gone. Not giving him time to ask why he had a time limit.
“I’ll make do with the time I have then!” Douxie said as the carriage set off to its destination. Douxie felt abuzz as he realized the reality of his life, this was all so much to take in for one night! He wished oh so much to tell Mama and Papa about it, however that was not possible. It was then he remembered who’d this trouble had been all for. Douxie smiled, feeling heat rush to his face.
This was a story he was sure Krel would love to hear.

—

King Fialkov coughed violently into his handkerchief as the doctor in front of him checked his heart and breathing, from the look the doctor’s face made, he could tell it was not good. General Morando, Royal advisor Loth Saborian, and the Royal protector Varvatos Vex stood in the room impatiently awaiting the diagnosis. All anxious for the outcome, but not all in the same way.
“So? How am I?” The king asked the doctor. The man struggled to find words as he tried to help the poor king through this news.
“Well…that’s my answer…Seklos and Gaylen.” He sighed as he held his face in his hands.
“He’s got a week at best I’m afraid…” The doctor said softly, giving the king and his subordinates a bow. “I’m sorry your highness.” He sighed leaving. King Fialkov didn’t move as the doctor left and he sat still for a few moments longer.
“I must get to the ball.” He suddenly said, getting up.
“Your highness!” Loth said as he rushed to the king's side. “You need to rest! Not attend some frivolous party.”
The king shook his head before another coughing fit, took him off his feet.
“Varvatos agrees my king!” Varvatos told Fialkov. “As someone who cares about the royal family Varvatos knows you need to rest and that Krel and Aja would not care to see you like this during the ball.” He told his lifelong friend.
“They hold important points, Your Highness.” Morando tagged in. “You need your rest, allow me to help the ball function.” This would surely be a great opportunity to set Krel and Aja up with powerful spouses tied to even more powerful people.
Fialkov only shook his head. “What will laying in bed do me? I’m dying and I want to spend this night with my children.” He explained, getting to his feet with the help of Varvatos. “This might be the only night I’ll ever meet my future in-laws and the bride and groom of my Aja and my Krel.” The men around him still weren’t swayed.
“My King-”
“Enough!” Fialkov cut Varvatos off, his hand on the knob of the door. “I am your king and I have made my decision.” He said sternly. “If I am dying, I would love to spend the last moments I have left with those I cherish most.” Varvatos frowned sadly while Loth squirmed and Morando shook his head in pity.
“Now if you’ll excuse me, my people await their king.”

—

“Princess Mary of the Wang Kingdom!” Zadra shouted as the princess elegantly descended the long staircase that led to the ballroom.
Krel carefully banged his head against the wall as he stood on the highest balcony with his family (and Steve, who stood next to Aja). Oh this was hopeless! He’d endured everything about this night up to this point and he already wanted someone to end his misery.
“Princess Claire of the Nunez Kingdom!”
Plenty of girls in the balconies below him had already tried to get his attention. Their thirst for wealth and power was sickeningly desperate, so much so it made Krel physically run from all of them. They all chased of course and if it hadn’t been for Aja and Steve he was sure they’d have gotten him.
“Princess Darci of the Scott’s Throne!” Zadra spoke before a beautiful woman with red hair and dark eyes approached her.
“Lady Morgana and her son’s.” She told Zadra, who in turn nodded.
“Lady Morgana and her sons!” She echoed as Morgana walked gracefully down the stairs. Right after her, Gunmar and Angor roughly bumped into one another as they spoke to the lieutenant.
“I’m Angor Rot!”
“I’m Gunmar!”
Zadra rolled her eyes but nodded. “People will want to know!” Gunmar assured her.
“I’m the clever one!” Angor told her.
“I'm the strong one.” Gunmar added.
Zadra sighed, not knowing why for Seklos’s sake the King put her in charge of announcements.
“The very clever Mister Angor Rot, and the very strong Gunmar.” She announced as the two boys dramatically descended the staircase, much to their mother’s embarrassment.
“Do come on!” She scolded them, though she didn’t fully blame them. She knew Douxie’s magic had done something to her boys, she just didn’t know what yet. As a powerful sorceress herself she could detect certain spells when cast…but this was different. This boy had an essence of magic that wizards like her would only dream of having. His spells and power were on a whole other level of her understanding.
She’d been aware of the magical relic he wore on his wrist since the day she met him, but the boy had shown no sign of magic whatsoever! To her he was a clueless boy with an asset that he had no advantage to, but now…now it seemed the brat may be a threat. As soon as she returned home she planned to steal the wristband from Douxie, it’d be tough seeing he never took it off. However Morgana was a determined woman and she would not fail.
For now she needed to focus on her sons, who she was dead set on setting up with the princess.
Princess Aja was enjoying herself at the ball, unlike her brother who was obviously disappointed, and much to his luck his father noticed this.
“Who are you looking for?” King Fialkov asked his son.
“No one.” Krel lied as he watched Zadra continue to announce the nobilities gracing the Tarron’s with their presence.
“It’s that boy from the woods isn’t it?” The King asked, sounding disappointed and Krel rolled his eyes.
“That’s why you had Aja be so generous with the invitations.”
“I didn’t ask her to do that.”
“But she did it for you.”
The King sighed, feeling and sounding rather tired. He did not want to fight with Krel right now, yet for the last few years that seemed to be their only interactions. Fights.
“I know what it’s like to be young and persistent, Krel…believe me I was in the same state you're in after meeting your mother.” The King tried, but it was blatantly obvious Krel was trying to ignore his father.
“But I also know that your head's been turned.” He continued. “You've only met him once, in the forest.”
“And you would have me marry someone I met once, tonight.” Krel said, looking at Fialkov.
“A princess. It's a princess or nothing.” The king spoke sternly, tired of his son’s behavior. Seklos, Aja was supposed to be the rebellious one! Krel felt his fists tightening as he took in his father’s words.
“Prince Krel!” Morando’s voice said from behind him. The prince turned knowing nothing good could come from Morando’s presence. The General stood straight and prideful with a young woman by his side. Krel recognized her as the previously announced Princess Mary.
“May I present, Her Royal Highness, Princess Mary of the Wang kingdom.” Princess Mary bowed and Krel did the same.
“You are as handsome as your picture.” Mary commented. “And your little kingdom is enchanting.” Krel forced a smile.
“Yes, I hope the princess will not find our "little kingdom" too confining.” He said, earning a shocked look from Morando and Aja. King Fialkov groaned into his hand.

—

Outside Douxie had just arrived feeling mighty nervous all of a sudden. His excitement and wonder from before had faded as they neared the castle. Just looking at it made him second guess even walking in. What if Krel wasn’t there? What if he went for no reason? What if he just embarrassed himself?
“Come along, Douxie!” Archie said, taking the nervous boy's hand. “You already wasted enough time.”
“Ah lay off, Arch.” Douxie smiled. Archie could see his hesitance, and placed a hand on his back.
“Come on, you’ve been looking forward to this for two weeks! Go find your apprentice.” His friend said encouragingly.
“I don’t know…it’s just all this is so overwhelming and…” Douxie explained looking back to the castle doors.
“I’m very nervous.” He confessed.
“Well I could see that, but why? Does this boy really get those nerves of yours running?” Archie teased.
“It’s not just him Arch, this is temporary and while I’m sure Krel wouldn’t mind the real me…he didn’t before, others might not be so kind.” Douxie explained. Archie then stepped forward to hug Douxie, hugging him like he’d wanted to as he’d witnessed his life grow worse while the two grew up together. How he’d wanted to when his parents died. How he’d wanted to everytime Angor and Gunmar hurt him badly. How he’d wanted to when Morgana’s verbal assaults were especially nasty. However he hugged his best friend now, knowing he needed it more than ever.
“Douxie, you know how to be proud of where you came from and who you are. Here that doesn’t need to change, whether Krel’s peers will accept you or not you should have a grand time!” Archie said. “You deserve it, Hisirdoux, all the happiness in the world.”
Douxie smiled before nodding.
“Right thank you! Talking has done you some good.” He laughed before walking up the steps. Archie only rolled his eyes, but he didn’t disagree.
As the young boy entered the castle doors, he heard a loud shout from a woman.
“Your Majesty, Your Royal Highness, My Lords, ladies and gentlemen, distinguished visitors and people of our land, the prince and princess shall now choose their partners for the first dance.” Zadra announced as Douxie tried to find his way to the ballroom. He found a big door and knocked on it sharply, only for it to be opened by two guards who had to double take as they looked at the boy.
“Let our ball commence!” Zadra smiled. Douxie did not know what exactly he walked into but as he looked around him his nerves skyrocketed. Everyone was gawking at him. Women gasped in awe while men murmured to each other as Douxie made his way from the staircase to the floor. He gave a quaint bow, hoping soon everyone would stop staring. Don’t get him wrong! The attention was nice…but also nerve wracking.
Krel noticed everyone’s attention had shifted to something, or rather someone and it made him curious. As he looked down over his balcony, he couldn’t believe his eyes. It was the boy! The boy from the forest! He was sure of it! He quickly looked back to the balcony he stood on and walked off nodding a quick ‘excuse me’ to Princess Mary. Everyone on the balcony blinked at the prince’s swift exit, except for Aja who smiled as she too stared at the boy dressed in blue.
“A thousand apologies, Your Royal Highness.” General Morando told Mary. “I don't know what happened.” Aja did. She did and she was happy. Looked like Krel would enjoy himself tonight after all.
“Come, Steve!” She then beckoned the knight at her side. “Let us dance with them!” She yanked Steve off the balcony as the two followed Krel down the stairs.
Krel could feel himself almost run down to the floor as he noticed Douxie walking into the crowd, who parted a way for him.
Douxie wondered how he’d find Krel in such a big room with many people. He’d try his best though, maybe even ask around. If Krel lived here, people had to know where he’d be if he attended this ball.
Krel skidded to a stop as stepped on the ballroom floor, a gasp rippling through the crowd as they noticed their prince had finally left his perch above them. The noise caught Douxie’s attention.
Their eyes locked when they noticed each other.
It’s him!
Both thought simultaneously. They didn’t waste much time walking towards each other, the crowd moving so as not to get in the way of either boys, who stopped a short three feet from each other, simply admiring the other.
“Mr. Krel.” Douxie smiled. Krel nodded, giving a sheepish smile of his own as he studied Douxie and his look. He’d barely changed, the color in his tips was new…the fancy clothes were nothing that deterred Krel. He simply took the boy in as he was. Seeing the young man he’d stumbled upon, who had been talking to a stag in the forest. The one who’s face had been painted by cinders but was now clean enough for Krel to fully admire his beauty.
“It’s you, isn’t it?” Krel asked.
“Just so.” Douxie answered as he looked at Krel. He was much more dressed up than Douxie himself, but he expected nothing less from someone who lived in a palace. His shoulder length hair was shiny and pulled back into a small low ponytail. Showing off the curves of his face and the true loveliness of his brown irises.
“Your Highness…” Krel started only for Douxie to shake his head.
“No…no I’m not royalty. You needn’t use that title for me.” He confessed. His honesty sent a soft pang to Krel’s heart. He was admirable in character indeed.
“Sorry, sir…” He then said, “If I may...that is it would give me the greatest pleasure, if you would do me the honor of letting me lead you through this...the first…” He spoke, words failing him as he looked at the gorgeous man in front of him.
“Dance?” Douxie laughed, only for Krel to blush and nod.
“Yes, dance.” He smiled, a bit embarrassed by how love struck he was. Douxie nodded, before Krel offered him a hand. Krel pulled the boy into a waltz as Douxie tried his best to keep up, he’d barely remembered how to waltz but Krel was patient and allowed him to make mistakes. He tried his best to guide the older boy through the steps, gently and swiftly. Soon they both got into a rhythm. One only the two of them could feel, as if their hearts were one and synchronizing.
Aja and Steve danced alongside the two, but neither boys seemed to notice, purley focused on each other and the bliss of seeing each other again after longing to do so for so long. However, halfway through the dance, Douxie couldn’t help but notice everyone was staring at him…and at Krel. It confused him, wondering why everyone would be so focused on an apprentice dancing with a stranger. Sure they were a spectacle for being a man and man dancing together, but he didn’t think people cared this much.
“They're all looking at you.” Douxie then said, making Krel smile and shake his head.
“Believe me, they're all looking at you.” He reassured Douxie, squeezing his hand as the two continued their dance.
From above Fialkov watched both his children dance with their chosen loves. Of course, neither were royalty because that was so much to ask of them. However that was not what caught his attention at this moment. He looked at the faces of his Aja and his Krel and couldn’t help but feel happy. It took him back to his first dance with his late wife Coranda, how happy they’d been and how much they’d loved each other.
Coranda could never dance, no matter how hard she practiced. She’d constantly step on Fialkov’s feet anytime they did, making both of them laugh. Nonetheless dancing with her was magical and the closest thing Fialkov had to heaven on earth. Then she gave him Aja and Krel, the light of their lives. Things had been wonderful for a moment, everything was perfect. Aja wasn’t (too) rebellious. Krel didn’t have a snippy attitude every which way. Everyone was happy, he wondered if all that happiness had died with Coranda….or if maybe he’d extinguished it along the way.
Fighting…so much fighting, and now here he was days away from death, and both of his children so far from him.
“Who is he?” Mary suddenly asked, both her and Morando mesmerized by the sight in front of them.
“I have no idea.” Morando answered. However he had no happiness or softness towards the sight. It repulsed him, he had everything set. By the end of the night Krel would have been arranged to marry Princess Mary, and yet this boy dared to destroy that.
Morando wasn’t the only one repulsed by Douxie’s presence either. Morgana scowled as she watched the princess dance with a blonde knight. This mystery boy seemed to have taken the spotlight and the prince’s favor, but what caught her attention most about him was that he was covered in magic. A powerful spell was cast on this boy to make him so charming, making him a powerful wizard. Another thing that struck her was how he did look familiar….but she couldn’t remember who he was.
“Who's that, Mother?” Angor asked as he peered at Douxie from her left.
“I'm not exactly sure, but this does not bode well.” She answered.
“That's a lovely suit he’s got on.” Gunmar commented.
“And how decent he looks.” Angor nodded.
“Concentrate!” Morgana snapped. “You must turn the princess's head, you fools!” She instructed her sons. “Now, get out there!” Both boys looked confused and they looked around.
“Go ask those girls to dance! Come on now you dolts!” She hissed, pushing both boys into two red headed girls. The girls were surprised but smiled attractively as the boys asked them for a dance.
“Off you go! Smile.” Morgana reminded her children as they began to dance, hopelessly trying to make their way to Princess Aja.
As their lone dance ended and the people around them started to occupy the floor Krel smiled at Douxie before pulling him towards a door.
“Come with me!” The prince said, and Douxie happily obliged. The two left the loud and crowded ballroom, finally having a moment of silence between each other. By now Douxie had figured out just why Krel and him were getting so much attention.
“So you’re the prince!” He exclaimed looking at Krel in more awe than he could feel. Krel rubbed his neck, looking sheepish, his face turning a bright red.
“Not "the prince," exactly. There are plenty of princes in the world. I'm only a prince.” He shrugged, Douxie eyed him a bit suspicious.
“But your name's not really Krel.” He said.
“I would never lie to you about my name. It’s Krel Tarron.” Krel answered simply.
“But you're no apprentice.” Douxie then stated as the two walked around the room, side by side.
I am an apprentice monarch. Still learning my trade.” Krel offered, an apologetic smile planted on his face. “I mean I didn’t…lie to you-”
“Cheeky! But you definitely didn’t tell the truth!” Douxie cut him off.
“Look, please forgive me. I thought you might treat me differently if you knew.” Krel confessed. “I never know who truly loves me or not…not when everyone HAS to love me.” Douxie’s face softened, he couldn’t imagine living a life where everyone’s intentions were ambiguous because one would never know the true intentions.
“I mistook you for a good, honest country boy, and now I see you didn't want to overawe a plain boy like me.” Krel continued. Douxie laughed at that, the two then stopped in front of painted portraits of the king and late queen.
“I must be truthful…I’m not even a farm boy.” He said. “I’m nothing but a servant boy in my own home.” Krel blinked.
“Just a servant boy?” He asked, it didn’t move his affection for Douxie but it made him curious. Douxie nodded, ready for any reaction.
“Klebso! How did a servant boy get his hands on such fine clothes?” Krel asked. Douxie smiled as he remembered Merlin.
“I have a pretty magical godfather.” He then laughed. “If you want I can tell you everything!” He offered. Krel smiled.
“I’ve got all night! This should be interesting!” The prince said.

—

“Who is he?” Morando asked Zadra.
“He gave no name, General.” Zadra informed him.
“You didn't ask?” He groaned, holding his temple. Zadra scoffed, a bit annoyed herself.
“Well you try to continuously announce people and keep up with all of them!” She threw her hands up in the air before she walked off exasperated.
Morando grumbled something under his breath before going to Loth.
“Get me that boy’s name! NOW!” He instructed, his patience already thin.
“R-right of course…ah-I’ll need to speak with Zadra!” The other man quivered.
“She doesn’t know either!”
“Well then I’m at a loss as well! SHE was in charge of announcing our guests.” Morando practically growled Loth.
“P-people are saying he's a prince.” Loth offered, careful not to anger Morando more.
“Our prince seems quite taken with him.” Morando nodded in agreement.
“He went straight for him….You have to appreciate his efficiency.” The general said.
“But surely, if he is of royal blood, this may be good.” Loth spoke, softly. Morando shook his head, this time smiling.
“I've already promised him in marriage, to the Princess Mary.” He explained, and Loth’s eyes widened. “Along with Princess Aja to Prince Seamus.”
“But…” Loth spoke, his conscious getting the better of him.
It wasn’t till that moment the two men realized they were being watched and heard. Morgana stood nearby, looking at the two men. A scheming look on her face.
“Oh.” She said, suddenly coy. “Forgive me, Your Grace. I did not mean to intrude.” She bowed to both men.
“No, it's you who have to forgive me, Madam.” Morando then answered with a quick bow in return. Morgana smirked as she rose.
“Your secret is safe with me.” She said as she walked off.

—

“And that’s just about everything up till when I arrived and saw you.” Douxie explained as the two walked through the palace’s garden. Krel blinked in surprise.
“Seklos and Gaylen…that’s a lot! It’s lively but A LOT!” He said. Douxie laughed, nodding his head.
“I’m still recovering myself!” He said as Krel looked at his wrist.
“You have magic!” Krel said. “Please show me!” He then pleaded, taking Douxie’s wrist.
“Ah…yeah well…I don’t really know how,” Douxie said. “I just kinda tapped into it when my stepfamily made me angry…I mean I would have never thought it was magic if Merlin had told me.” He explained. Krel nodded, lowering Douxie’s wrist.
“Right, I’m sorry I got excited…” He apologized.
“Don’t be sorry, excited is a cute look on you!” Douxie commented, making the shorter boy flush a nice red.
“Look who’s being cheeky now!” Krel said, trying to hide how much the comment had sent him head over heels. Douxie smiled, allowing his wrist to slip from the prince’s grasp but allowing their gloved hands to meet and grasp each other. Krel looked down at their intertwined hands and Douxie didn’t think someone could get so red.
“You okay there love?” He asked.
“Hand holding, compliments, and pet names!? Let me live!” Krel flushed, making Douxie laugh and pat their entwined hands.
“Of course.” He said, he refrained from adding any loving comment or endearment toward the end. Krel then looked around them, as if making sure no one had followed them before looking back at Douxie.
“I want to take you somewhere.” The prince then told him before walking forward and pulling his companion along with him.
“Oh? I thought we promised no more secrets?” Douxie smiled.
“You say that as if we’re…” Krel trailed off, not finishing his sentence. “It’s just a place that’s dear to me…I simply wish to share it with you.” He explained, and Douxie nodded.
“I’d love to see it! I’ve practically rung my soul dry for you, I would love for you to return the favor.” He told Krel. “As much as you’ll tell me.” The two lovebirds then walked along the garden a bit more before stopping short, at what looked to be a normal wall covered in rogue vines and moss.
“Here.” He said, before lifting the vines and reeds that covered the stone wall showing off a decent sized pathway. Douxie had to hunch to fit but he imagined Krel must have found this place as a child. Going into the tunnel Krel made sure to hide the entry.
“No one knows about this place…except Aja.” Krel explained as they walked. It was cramped and wet but only for a second until they arrived upon the place the path led too. It looked to be something of an abandoned mill. However it had obviously been occupied, there was a makeshift table set up with what looked to be like small pieces of technology splayed across it. In fact the whole place had technological devices be they new or premade all over it.
“I found the path when I was seven.” Krel explained, removing his white gloves. “So I made this place my safe haven! I come here when I need to be alone or away from my family.” Douxie looked at everything in the room.
“Did you make all of this?” He asked, holding a small orb.
“Yeah…I usually make everything by using parts from pre-made technology.” Krel explained. “I get inspiration from already made and used technological devices…I simply strive to make them better.” Douxie blinked.
“That’s brilliant!” He said, staring at the orb. “It looks amazing, Krel! You’re truly very smart!” Krel smiled but it didn’t reach his eyes.
“Not really…” He said. “None of them really work, I mean they'll turn on but something always goes wrong!” He sighed. “I guess that’s just the ethic of trial and error, but I’ve done everything right and I’m not seeing any constructive failure!” Douxie felt it was rather endearing how worked up Krel was over his passion. He really wanted to help him, it was clear this meant a lot to him. A spark burst in his heart as he looked at Krel who was now holding two broken off parts of what Douxie couldn’t make certain of what it originally was.
“Woah…” Krel spoke, snapping Douxie out of his thoughts. He wondered what had dazzled the prince’s gaze until he looked down at his hand. In his hand he still held the small orb however now it was hovering in a blue light above his palm ... .powered by his magic it would seem.
“It’s working!” Krel suddenly said, excitement in his eyes as he watched the orb whir and click.
“Well look at that.” Douxie smiled. His emotions seemed to be a big factor when summoning his magic. Intense feelings looked to help the magic flow genuinely and seemingly without error. Merlin said he had potential, he’d have to take him up on the offer to become his student. He could probably help.
“Wow! Akiridion technology and magic are so compatible!” Krel wooed, gently taking the orb from Douxie. “Who would have thought?” Douxie looked down at his hands, but looked back up when he found Krel’s hands resting on his palms.
“Thank you.” The prince smiled.
“Really I have no idea what I’m doing.” Douxie laughed.
“Well, it’s working!” Krel said. “I’m so happy to have a prototype that actually turns on!” He said, continuing to wave the orb around.
“Yeah, maybe if you show your father he’ll allow you to present it as a product.” Douxie said. The comment made Krel’s excitement die down, and sadness seemed to overtake the younger boy.
“Papa never saw technology as a big part of my future as I once did. He sees this as a hobby that was cute for me to have when I was a child.” Krel rolled his eyes but there was no venom behind his words
“And I’m afraid he probably won’t be around long enough to make that call for me.” Krel told him. Douxie frowned as he heard those words, however he didn’t need to ask why Krel had spoken them, for he was all too familiar with this kind of sorrow.
“Poor Krel.” He said.
“He thinks that I don’t know…that I’d believe all those doctors that have been visiting are here for checkups.”
“I’m so sorry…”
“Don’t be it’s not your fault…I’m just worried about losing him.” Douxie embraced Krel and the prince allowed himself to sink into his touch. He felt warm and safe, but not yet free from sadness.
“I can tell you, my love, it never goes away, but it does get better.” Douxie promised as he held Krel tighter, hoping to give the younger boy reassurance. Krel felt it, he could tell if anything, Douxie understood. That he was here for him.
“My love? Have we really traveled that far in one night?”
“It may have been one but I feel we’ve shared enough to know each other our entire lives.” Douxie explained, speaking truthfully and with his heart in his head. The two part from their embrace and Krel smiles at Douxie, understanding his words and what they meant. For a seckton Krel found himself almost believing that he was meant to be with Douxie in this moment, that they were meant to be with each other right now.
“Your gloves are soft.” Krel commented as his hands found Douxie’s once again.
“They are aren’t they? Merlin made them to hide my hands.” Douxie chuckled.
“Hide them?” Krel asked curiously before softly taking the left one off. What he
saw almost moved the boy to tears. Truly the hands of a servant, and a badly treated one at that. There was some irreparable damage to Douxie’s hands, and so many scars. Krel rubbed his fingers over them, tracing them softly. It gave Krel a swirl of emotions, how could someone as kind as Douxie be treated like this?
“Sorry, does that hurt?” Krel asked.
“No you're fine…” Douxie promised. Nothing really hurt much anymore, but not because he was now numb to it but because he had the tiniest sliver of hope for his future. He was grown now, he could leave easy just as Zoe had recommended and it could be with Merlin. Now he had someone like Krel and his support. Maybe there was a chance at happily ever after for Douxie.
They leave Krel’s safe haven and find themselves wondering about the garden. Douxie still admiring the boy next to him.
“Won’t they miss you at your ball?” Douxie asked as the two looked at each other.
“Maybe..but let’s not go back just yet.” Krel answered, holding onto Douxie’s ungloved. “When I go back they’ll pair me off with a lady of their choosing.” He explained. “I’m expected to marry for advantage.”
The notion made Douxie frown, and his heart hurt even more for the boy who was already going through so much.
“Well, surely you have a right to your own heart.” He said.
“And I must weigh that against the King's wishes.” Krel spoke. ”He’s dying…the kingdom will need heirs and certain stability.” Krel explained. “I don’t want him to worry about me or Aja or the kingdom while he’s on his deathbed.” No matter how much he’d hate himself for not choosing Douxie, Krel understood how important this kingdom was to his father, and while they didn’t see eye to eye on most things, he truly wanted to please him. Especially in times as dire as this.
“I shouldn’t think that means you need to give up your happiness, Krel.” Douxie said. “Should your father truly love you, he'd accept you as you are and let you love who you want.” Krel blinked. “Trust me…there is much to adore about you.”
He smiled feeling the happiest he dare say he’s had in his entire life. This boy was truly remarkable, not to mention someone Krel would love to have rule with him. Douxie was a kind and noble person, Krel had no doubt those qualities would benefit the kingdom as a whole. He started to speak, but stopped when he realized something.
“What is your name?” He asked, he did feel embarrassed that he’d spent most of the night with Douxie and never got his name. He’d just been too wrapped up in his surreal presence (only a day ago he was the mystery boy he’d met in the woods) and his story that they’d never formally got to introduce themselves.
“My name?” Douxie asked, also realizing how askew their priorities had been since seeing each other again. “Right…my name is-” He started only to be cut off by the sound of a clock. Oh fuzzbuckets! It was five minutes to midnight. “I…I have to go!” Douxie then told Krel. “I’m sorry!” He said before dashing away
Krel blinked as he watched the boy run away from him.
“What!? Why!?”
“It’s complicated! But this magic was given a time limit and a warning that I must obey!” Douxie shouted over his shoulder at the prince.
“Will I see you again!?” Krel then asked before the boy was completely gone.
“I’m sure that fate will smile down on us once again!” Douxie called. “If not! I’ll find a way to you!” Krel couldn’t help but laugh, he was never one to believe in fate but he sure hoped Douxie was right. It wasn’t until a few moments later he felt Douxie’s glove in his hand. He’d forgotten to give it back…what a shame. It was beautiful, Krel didn’t know what fabric it could possibly be made of to be this soft and stylish. However his mind wandered from that to the wearer.
His (still) mystery boy from the forest.
As Douxie ran from the prince he couldn’t help but hope to see him again. Next time his name would be the first thing he’d tell him. He rushed back into the ball, running through the crowd of still dancing people trying his best to not disturb anyone. However as he ran up the stairs, he found himself stopped short by the King who he’d almost ran into.
“Oh, Your Majesty!” He couldn’t help but gasp as King Fialkov blinked at the boy in surprise. He recognized him as the boy he’d been watching Krel dance with earlier.
“Young man.” Douxie bowed deeply as the King began to speak.
“I am so sorry.” He apologized, lifting himself quickly.
“Oh, think nothing of it, my boy!” The King reassured him before Douxie ran past him, stopping short before he rounded the corner.
“I wanted to say, Your Majesty, your son Krel is the most lovely person I ever met.” He told the King. “So smart and good. I hope you know how much he loves you.” Douxie said before running once again, leaving the King by himself on the steps of the stairs. “Excuse me!” He heard the boy shout at whoever else had gotten in his way.
The words left a smile on King Fialkov’s face.

—

Morgana felt a shift in the atmosphere around her. Something was happening…well something magical was happening. She felt the end of a strong spell and it made her wonder as she continued to feel this. The woman wondered if it had to do with this mystery prince everyone was chatting about, the one who the prince had run off with hours ago.
Well, he was having better luck than her two idiot sons. Both had tried to approach the Princess only to be fended off by the blonde knight who stood forever by her side, and when they did catch her alone the conversations had only ended in one, Gunmar getting kicked and punched and two, Angor getting fatally rejected, embarrassed, and yelled at. It was obvious that this night was NOT going to plan like she’d wanted it to.
"Alright boys, your mother is tired, it is time to go home.” She then insisted to her sons. Both nodded, feeling embarrassed enough for the night. So the family left, but not before Morgana noticed a fancy carriage leave the palace gates and disappear into the night. It peaked the woman’s suspicion, and she felt it had something to do with the magic leaving here tonight.
“Come on boys.” The woman said as the footman opened their door to the carriage and their family.
“Ughhh Mother, my head is starting to hurt again!” Gunmar groaned.
“Welcome to my life living with you.” Angor rolled his eyes.
“I’m serious!”
“So am I.”
Morgana scoffed at their childish bickering, honestly she was unsure they’d ever grow up. She thought back to Hisirdoux, her stepson who she’d thought to be without magic but proved her wrong. There was no way he’d hidden it either, Morgana would have sensed it in him if he had, meaning he tapped into these abilities in the heat of the moment. However, what she couldn’t put her finger on was why he had this magic.
His father hadn’t been a wizard, sure he’d spoken of meeting and working with THE Merlin Ambrosius but she’d never believed him and still didn’t. Douxie’s mother, while Morgana did not know her personally she could only come to the conclusion she had no magic as well. If she had, Douxie would have definitely been more educated on the subject and probably taught its basics before she died.
So what on earth was so special about this boy? It was the question she pondered the whole ride home.
—

Douxie’s carriage along with his lavish outfit had indeed vanished soon after he left and the animals had returned to their original form. Well…mostly.
“Cutting it a bit close weren’t you.” Archie said as the cat walked beside his best friend.
“Lay off Archie! I was enjoying myself, that's all.” Douxie explained, a goofy grin plastered on his face.
“Well that’s quite obvious, you haven’t stopped smiling since we left!” The cat pointed out.
“Oh I wish you could have met him, Arch! You’d love him and Krel would be most interested in meeting a talking cat!” Douxie said, his feet feeling lighter than air.
“Ah yes, use me to further impress this boy you’ve grown interested in.” The cat chuckled only to be hastily picked up by his owner.
“It's much more than interest!” He said to him, “And I know Krel feels the same! Something is happening Arch! Things are looking up for us!” He said. “I’m gonna be a wizard!” He whooped. Suddenly the wet feeling of rain ran down Douxie’s cheek and fell onto his hair, he looked up to find it had started raining. In seconds he was soaked, but he didn’t care. “I’m going to marry that boy!” He added, shouting at the world.
“Yes! Yes! Now please refrain from being happy outside and bring me along with yourself inside!” Archie hissed as the rain soaked his fur. “You’ll catch your death out here!” He said. Douxie happily obliged and quickly ran back inside, setting Archie down to do as he pleased.
“You know…I wonder why all the magic didn’t just go away!” Archie pointed out. “I can still talk…and that nice glove on your hand is still here.” Douxie blinked. Honestly he hadn’t noticed that…well except for Archie still talking as a cat. However he looked at the beautiful glove that still covered his right hand.
“Krel has the other one…” He said remembering how the prince had taken it off to look at his damaged hand. The two made their way to the kitchen, Douxie ready to find something for Archie to eat.
“Hm…maybe it has something to do with the fact you have magic yourself.” Archie pointed out as Douxie poured some milk into a small bowl for the cat. He set it down and Archie swiftly went for the bowl.
“Maybe..I’ll have to ask Merlin the next time I see him. He seemed rather pressed about me getting home on time.” Douxie said.
“Yeah, that was odd.” The cat agreed between his laps of milk. Before the two could talk any further about the subject Douxie heard the front door open, and the sound of his stepbrother’s fighting. Typical. He quickly looked at Archie and pretended to zip his lips as a sign for the cat to not make a peep.
“Cinderdoux! Cinderdoux, wake up lazy bones!” Gunmar called through the house as Douxie heard his stepfamily make their way to the kitchen. Right before they came into view he swiftly took off the glove and shoved it into the pocket of his pants.
“Oh, Good you're up!” Gunmar said. “You look cheerful!” He pointed out, studying Douxie’s face. Right to their knowledge they left Douxie in a state of despair, he needn’t look so happy as to not raise suspicion.
“Ah…yes I’ve had time to cool down and my walk in the rain helped.” He explained. Gunmar only shrugged while his older brother stayed silent.
“Ha! Typical. Odd Cinderdoux.” He said. ”Now! I would like tea! Make me some.” He instructed. Douxie nodded, already heating up water.
“So…how was the ball?” Douxie asked, curious as to what his stepbrother’s had been up to while he was with Krel.
“Ugh! A disaster! Mother is so mad at us because we didn’t win any favor from Princess Aja.” Gunmar complained. “But what threw the whole night off for everybody I believe was that mystery prince!”
The name made Douxie laugh.
“A mystery prince? My what a charming notion!” He commented.
Angor rolled his eyes at Douxie.
“He was such a prick! He stole the attention of every kind of royalty there! The girls were all whispering about him while he was gone with the prince.” He explained. Gunmar slammed his fist on the table startling Douxie as he poured both boys cups of hot water.
“I was so surprised, honestly! I didn’t think Prince Krel was…like that.” Gunmar said. “I mean…he seemed normal but I guess you never know.” He shrugged while his brother nodded.
“If you ask me! That boy just threw himself on the prince! Maybe they left so the prince could tell him off in private!” It took everything in Douxie not to laugh or even snicker at Angor’s words.
“He actually danced with him though!”
“It’d be bad if the prince made a spectacle in front of everyone by refusing!”
Douxie placed both cups in front of the two boys.
“Whatever!” Gunmar said, taking the cup. “The prince is a loser! Both princes are! They deserve each other!” He said.
“Well, it's no matter, boys.” Morgana then said, walking into the kitchen with her hair now undone and flowing down her back gracefully. “The ball was a mere diversion, the prince and the princess are not free to marry for love.” She explained, her eyes finding Douxie’s who quickly poured her some tea as well. “They are already promised to Princess Mary and Prince Seamus, the General and Royal adviser told me themselves.” The words disheartened Douxie but if he knew Krel, he was certain the boy would find a way out of this marriage.
“It's so very unfair.” Angor whined. “We never had a chance.”
“Yes. The way of the world.” She said, her eyes still on Douxie. As the boy set her cup of tea down in front of her she grabbed his wrist.
“My, Cinderdoux I've always wanted to say, what a lovely bracelet that is.” She said, looking at the metal band and its runes.
“Ah..thank you Lady Morgana!” Douxie said, confused by her compliment and trying to free his arm from her crushing grasp.
“You must tell me where you got it!” The woman smiled, not letting go of Douxie’s arm as she didn’t let her eyes leave the piece of jewelry.
“Papa gifted it to me when I was little…he said it was from Paris.” Douxie explained and Morgana’s hold tightened.
“Ah…of course something like that must be one of a kind!” She complimented. Douxie knew something was up with his stepmother, she was plotting something but he did not know what. She’d seemed so angry at him when she left, promising punishment, however now she seemed calmer and distant. It did not sit right with Douxie.
Archie suddenly jumped on the table startling Morgana into letting Douxie go. The cat hissed and meowed angrily at the woman. Morgana growled at Archie as Douxie quickly took him into his arms.
“Control that cat or I’ll sic a dog on it!” The woman warned.
“Yes, Lady Morgana, my apologies.” He said swiftly leaving and going to his attic room.
“Are you mad! Or is your mind simply gone?!” Douxie said to the cat.
“Douxie, I think she knows something about your magic!” Archie explained.
“Well a duh doy!” The boy said. “I could tell that much but you didn’t need to do that!” Archie huffed leaping down from Douxie’s arms.
“I’m just trying to help!” Archie spoke.
“And I appreciate that, but putting yourself directly in Morgana’s wrath will only end badly for both of us.” Douxie would never forgive himself if anything happened to Archie because of him. Morgana’s doing or not.
“I’m sorry, Douxie.” Archie said softly.
“It’s alright, just give a slight warning before you do that again!” Douxie smiled, sitting down on his bed. He took out the glove from his pocket and smiled down at it as Archie leaped onto the cot and got comfortable. “Thank you for your help tonight, Arch. It was like a dream…better than one actually.” He said, petting the animal, who purred.
Suddenly the door to the attic is jerked open to reveal both Gunmar and Angor. The two walk inside the attic, looking at Douxie with faces of trouble.
“May I help you?” Douxie asked, once again hiding his glove.
“Yeah actually.” Angor spoke. “You can tell us just exactly what you did to us with your magic.” However the words sounded more like a threat than a sentence.
“Ah, so you found out it was magic, it seems there are brains behind those shallow eyes after all.” Douxie shrugged, it made Gunmar charge him and grab him by the shirt of his torn suit.
“What are you going to do? Hurt me?” Douxie asked bored and a little agitated. He’d been having quite the wonderful night and he didn’t need it to be spoiled.
“Not me. Him.” Gunmar smiled, suddenly behind Douxie holding his arms. Angor then stepped forward revealing a sharp and pretty looking dagger.
“Thanks for finally giving me an excuse to use this, Cinderdoux!” He said, a sinister smile growing on his face. Archie was conflicted, but Douxie gave him a look that said ‘stay out of it.’
“Now tell me, what hex did you put on us, demon?” Angor asked, brandishing the dagger to Douxie’s face.
“Demon? That’s new…” Douxie said.
“That’s what Mother said you are, a demon meddling with unnatural forces.” Gunmar said, speaking directly into Douxie’s ear.
“Tell us!” Angor then shouted. Douxie looked at Angor. The boy looked poised with anger, and hatred filling his eyes like a cup of wine.
“I don’t know Angor, honestly I just really wanted you to let me go…like how I want you to right now.” He said, and as the words left his mouth a blue light briefly washed over the other boy’s eyes, and Angor’s posture straightened. His face was no longer scrunched up in anger, nor did his eyes expose any negative emotions.
“Let him go.” He echoed dryly, surprising Gunmar.
“Angor?” Gunmar asked as he looked towards his brother. “What are you doing?” He looked at the boy incredulously as he dropped the dagger. The metal clattering on the ground.
“Let him go, Gunmar.” Angor repeated, this time a little less monotone. Gunmar blinked but did as he said and released Douxie’s arms.
“Angor, what-” However before he could speak Douxie took his attention.
“Go to sleep, Gunmar…it’s been a long day.” He told him and like his brother’s Gunmar’s eyes flashed a bright blue.
“It’s been a long day.” Gunmar mimicked.
“Yes, both of you go to your rooms and rest. You deserve it.” He said, guiding the two boys out.
“We deserve it…let’s go.” Angor said and the two walked down the steps. As soon as footsteps faded from the steps of the stairs Archie jumped up onto Douxie’s shoulders.
“How on earth did you do that!?” The cat asked incredulously. Douxie laughed with a shrug.
“I’m still figuring this all out...but I believe emotion is the anchor to magic, from what I’ve experienced.” He explained. “I’m not entirely sure how it works yet, but I just guide myself through my emotions and use them, then the magic seems to work!” He explained
“Ha! Look at you, Mister Wizard.” Archie smiled. Douxie smiled as he got ready for bed, his heart was still buzzing as he lay down next to Archie for bed. He wished he could tell his mother and father of his encounter and experience tonight. He knew they’d be happy for him and proud even. He thought of Krel as his mind wandered and drifted into sleep and that night he had a pretty good dream.

—

Aja and Krel walked through the hallway, not saying a word. A few days after the ball their father’s health declined rapidly much to Aja’s shock and Krel’s dread. The two had been summoned to see their father who was bedridden and near death. Aja was already crying as they entered their father’s room.
“Papa.” She sobbed as she immediately ran to her father and hugged him. Krel walked over and hugged his sister. King Fialkov was in his sleepwear which normally would be funny for the twins but not now. He looked horrible with sunken cheeks and an ashened face that was usually smooth and well washed. His brown eyes, the ones that matched Krel's, were dimming as he looked at his children.
“Oh, you've come. Good.” He coughed. He smiled at Krel and Aja as they looked at him. Aja’s face was already wet and red with tears while Krel looked numb and weak as he looked at his dying father.
“Please don’t look so grim…be cheerful.” The King instructed his children.
“How can you ask that of us if we are losing you, Papa…now you and Mama will be gone.” Krel said. King Fialkov’s eyes softened at Krel’s words, he could feel tears prick at his own eyes now.
“Papa, please don’t go.” Aja begged as she held his hand.
“I must…but you won’t be alone. As long as you stay together, as long as you remain family, all will be well.” He smiled. “Be brave, be true, be kind to each other, and help each other rule this kingdom.” He explained.
“But what if I’m not ready to be king?” Krel asked and Fialkov laughed harshly.
“Of course you're not ready. No one is ever ready. I sure wasn’t when I stepped up.” The King reassured his son. “If I know anything, my son, it is that life is a series of choices. It's what we choose in the small moments that makes our lives better or worse.” He explained. “You will not face these choices alone because you will always have your family.” He motioned to Aja who was in fact still weeping. Krel didn’t blame her, he felt like he could burst into tears at any moment.
“I simply request one thing from you two.” The King suddenly said. Krel blinked and Aja glanced at her father curiously.
“Take a spouse…you Prince Seamus.” He said to Aja. “And you Princess Mary.” He looked at Krel. Krel only shook his head.
“I love you but I will not fulfill that request.” Krel said.
“What if I commanded you to do so?” King Fialkov asked.
“I will not….we will not.” Krel said with Aja nodding and wiping her tears. He held Aja’s hand as he spoke to his father.
“I believe that we need not look outside of our borders for strength or guidance.” He explained. “What we need is right before us, and we need only have courage and be kind to see it.” He smiled, Douxie filling his thoughts. That boy in the woods
“Just so.” The King smiled at his children. “You've become your own man, Krel.” He said feeling tears slip from his face. “Good, and perhaps, in the little time left to me, I can become the father you deserve.” Aja and Krel looked almost hopeful at those words. “You must not marry for advantage. You must marry for love.” He sighed, his own lovely Coranda coming to mind. He held Aja’s hand and squeezed it.
“That oafish knight you’ve become so fond of! While he may not be sharp, his heart is in the right place.” Aja smiled and nodded furiously at her father. Fialkov then looked sternly at Krel.
“Find that boy. Find him.” He said. “The one they're all talking about.” He laughed. “I know you kept his glove.” Krel finally felt the tears roll as his father spoke to him. Of course, he’d kept the glove; it was the only thing he had of Douxie. He laughed, nodding.
“Thank you, Papa.” Aja said, her voice cracking. Krel echoed her words as he choked on his own sobs.
“Thank you, both of you.” The King said, sitting up to embrace the prince and princess.
"I will always love you." He promised. “Me and your mother both.”
The royal family then just lay there embracing one another in tears as a messy stream of ‘I love you’ echoed around the three. The Tarron children held their only living parent for the last time.

—

Once the time for mourning had passed, a proclamation was sent out. During which Douxie was in town once again this time with his stepbrothers.
“Hear ye! Hear ye! Hear ye!” The announcer cried, getting the attention of the people around the square. “Know that our new king hereby declares his love for...the mysterious prince...as he danced with at the ball.” Douxie couldn’t believe his ears. This had to mean that Krel had somehow managed to find a way to Douxie. Had found a way for them to be together.
“And requests that he present himself at the palace, whereupon, if he be willing, he will forthwith.” The announcer paused dramatically. “Marry him.” The crowd gasped in shock as everyone buzzed with comments. Angor and Gunmar seemed shocked as well. “...with all due ceremony.” The announcer finished. Suddenly everyone was talking about the prince and his soon-to-be groom and how certain rumors among certain circles had been right all along about the prince.
“Well this sucks.” Gunmar said. “The prince marries who he wants to but the princess thought none of us were interesting enough!” Douxie wasn’t listening to his complaining. He was all too focused that Krel had publicly set out an announcement in search of him. Him. While Douxie had promised to find a way to Krel, it seemed the prince (or rather the king now) had beaten him to the punch.
The three left for home shortly, Douxie still having a hard time believing what he’d just heard as he entered his room. Quietly, he went over to his bed sitting and thinking a bit, this whole week had been strange.
He found whatever magic spell he’d cast on Angor and Gunmar had stayed lasting. Everytime the two would try to bother him all Douxie had to do was look in their eyes and tell them to go do another activity. Morgana’s poking around grew so he kept being more weary of her, he didn’t understand what she was up to or how she could know something about the magical artifact on his wrist.
“Finally, you’re back.” A voice said, startling Douxie out of his thoughts. Think of the devil. He turned to find Morgana standing in the shadows of his room. Douxie stiffened as she walked into the light and towards him. “I’d been waiting for a mighty long time.” She said but her tone suggested she didn’t mean waiting at exactly this moment.
“So…would you mind telling your stepmother how you got this, dear?” She said, holding up his glove from that night. Douxie internally panicked, how had she gotten that!? Douxie had made sure to keep it hidden from her! From everyone in that house. “You can’t hide anything from me, boy.” Morgana laughed as if reading the young boy’s thoughts. “Just how I know your cat can all of a sudden talk.” She added. Okay, now Douxie was really panicking. How did she know that? Archie only ever spoke to Douxie up here in private.
“You can only hide so much, little Cinderdoux.” She told him. “But you can’t hide anything from a sorceress with shadow magic.” She explained. Douxie’s eyes widen. Sorceress? Shadow magic? “Trust me the shadows are a great hiding place! They also serve as great ways to secretly watch disobedient little brats like you!” She said, her tone turning dark.
“You were spying on me!?” Douxie asked in horror.
“Don’t look so surprised!” She chuckled. “As if I’d trust the likes of you not to be up to something.” She explained. “And you were! Using my Angor and my Gunmar to do your bidding, you cast a spell on yourself to go to the ball and dance with the prince.” Douxie shifted, not saying anything.
“So again, would you mind telling me just how you got this?” She said, waving the glove in his face. “Did you steal it?” She asked. Douxie sat there saying nothing, making Morgana snarl as she pulled the boy to his feet roughly by his forearm.
“No? Well then let me tell you a story!” She said, her demeanor changing but into nothing good. “Once upon a time, there was a beautiful young girl who married for love, and she had two loving sons.” Morgana started, holding Douxie close. He could see pain written so clearly into her eyes and her tone lowered from hate to sadness. “All was well...but, one day, her husband, the light of her life, died.” Douxie blinked, allowing his stepmother to continue, but he couldn’t help but feel sorry for her suddenly.
“The next time, she married for the sake of her sons, but that man, too, was taken from her. Only long before he was actually put in the ground!” She hissed. “Taken from her by his beloved child who the woman was doomed to look upon everyday.” So much hate filled her words. “She had hoped to marry off one of her handsome, stupid sons to the princess, but everyone’s head was turned by a boy dressed in blue with white gloves.” She held Douxie’s arm tighter as she finished. “And so...I lived unhappily ever after.”
Douxie tried to step back from the horrible woman but to no avail, her grip was too tight.
“My story would appear to be over. Now, tell me yours.” The woman instructed. She held up the glove to Douxie once more. “Did you steal it?’ She repeated and Douxie finally found the courage to speak.
“No. It was given to me.” He explained, making Morgana scoff.
“Given to you? Nothing is ever given.” She snarled. “For everything, we must pay and pay.” Douxie shook his head.
“That's not true.” However Morgana wasn’t hearing any of it. She let go of Douxie and started to pace around him in a circle.
“Now, here is how you will pay me, if you are to have what you desire. No one will believe you, a dirty servant boy without a family, if you lay claim to the prince's heart.” She explained. “But with a respectable gentlewoman to put you forward, you will not be ignored.” She pointed out. “When you are married, you will make me the head of the royal household.
Angor and Gunmar, we will pair off with women rooted from wealth, and I shall manage that boy.”
Douxie felt his fist tighten at her insinuation.
“Krel’s not just a boy.” He said, anger edging at him.
“And who are you? How would you rule a kingdom?” She asked Douxie. Douxie was never truly a leader so he couldn’t say he’d be very good at it. However he’d definitely be better than Morgana.
“Best to leave it to me. That way we all get what we want.” His stepmother said. Starting towards the door.
“No.”
“No?”
Morgana looked back at Douxie, danger in her eyes and a scowl already present. However Douxie stood his ground, he was sick and tired of letting this woman walk all over and misuse him.
“I was not able to protect my father from you, but I will protect Krel and the kingdom...
no matter what becomes of me.” He told her.
“Well, that is a mistake.” Morgana warned before ripping the glove easily and once more snatching her stepson’s arm. In a quick movement she took his bracelet, before making it disappear to god knows where.
“No!” Douxie shouted as he watched the last thing he had from his father vanish before his eyes. He looked at Morgana distraught as she let go of him. “Why?” He asked, the anger in him bubbling up. “Why are you so cruel? I don't understand it, I've tried to be kind to you!” He shouted at her, feeling truly hopeless. This woman had taken everything from him.
“You? Kind to me?” Morgana asked, almost offended.
“Yes!” Douxie said, the anger becoming a swirl of negative emotions in his chest.
“And though no one deserves to be treated as you have treated me….Why do you do it?!” He asked.
“Why? Why? Because you are young and innocent, and good!” Morgana shouted right back, the shadows around her filling the room and flooding it into darkness.
“And I…” She stopped, backing away from Hisirdoux. The shadows receded, allowing the sun to wash everything in light again. She then turned to leave, storming off and locking the door to the attic quickly.
However, Douxie didn’t care. He didn’t care about anything anymore, his bracelet from Papa was gone and so was his hope for a good future. His spirit was truly broken now, no tears came this time like they had many others, only sorrow and numbness filled him as he sat on his cot. He wondered why everything was like this…wondering why he’d let himself be foolish enough to think magic would be enough to save him from reality.

—

“May I ask where you got this?” General Morando asked the woman as she sat across from him in a beautiful gold dress. The man held the ripped glove in his hand, inspecting it knowing it indeed was a match to the one King Krel had.
“From a ragged servant boy in my household,” Morgana explained. As soon as she was finished with Douxie she had gotten herself ready and asked for an audience with General Morando.
The mystery prince is a commoner.” The man said, disgust present in his tone.
“You could imagine when I discovered his subterfuge how horrified I was.” Morgana added, a smile on her face.
“You told no one else?” The General asked.
“Not even my own sons. No one needs to ever know the truth.” Morgana reassured him. General Morando smiled at the woman.
“You've spared the kingdom a great deal of embarrassment.” He told her.
“And I should like to keep it that way.” Morgana sang, catching the General’s attention.
“Are you threatening me?” He asked.
“Yes.” She nodded.
“So what do you want?” The General rolled his eyes with a sigh, but he was quite amused by her ambition and tactics.
“I would like to be a countess, and I require advantageous marriages for my two sons.” Morgana said, and Morando snapped his fingers.
“Done, and the boy?” He asked.
Oh.” Morgana rolled her eyes at the mere mention of her stepson. “Do with him what you will. He's nothing to me.”
Morando was quick to give the torn glove to the King who looked at it carefully, studying it side by side with the one he had.
“Where?” Krel asked, as he walked with Aja and the General.
“Abandoned on the side of the road.” Morando answered quickly.
“And have you found him?” Krel asked hopefully. He hadn’t seen or heard from Douxie since that night and it made him worry.
“The boy? No, he's disappeared.” Morando lied as Krel and Aja sat upon their thrones. Krel was still deep in thought while Aja tried to comfort her brother.
“There must be some reason he vanished, perhaps he has been prevented from speaking.” Aja said. “Do not lose heart, little brother.” Morando rolled his eyes before clearing his throat.
“On the contrary, lose heart and gain wisdom.” He told the King, who looked up at him.
“The people need to know that the kingdom is secure, that the King has a Queen, and the land may have an heir.” He explained, noticing the angered expression on Krel’s face. “They want to face the future with certainty!” He kept on.
“Agreed!” Krel snapped, now standing up to face Morando. “Then let us be certain. I am your king now.” He said, pointing a finger at Morando. Oh how he’d longed to finally tell the soolian that! “I say we shall seek out the mystery prince, even if he does not want to be found.” He said. “I have to see him again.” Krel’s voice dropped and Aja stood to physically comfort her brother. Morando sighed realizing he was arguing a losing battle with this stubborn child.
“But if he's not found...then for the good of the kingdom, you must marry the Princess Mary.” The General said. “For the good of the kingdom.” He emphasized, as if the kingdom was what he was worried about more than its reputation. Krel stared the man down but hated how much of a point he made. Krel was King now and there had to be sacrifices made to help his people survive.
“Very well, agreed.” Krel nodded, making Aja’s eyes widen.
“But Krel!” She gasped.
“But you will spare no effort.” Krel told General Morando, ignoring his sister's reluctance to agree with this deal. Morando bowed deeply before smiling.
“Your Majesty, of course. You have my word.” He promised.

—

The glove traveled the length and breadth of the kingdom, visiting every bachelor both high and low, and every sort in between. General Morando was true to his word. He spared no effort to demonstrate to the prince that the mystery prince was not to be found. For whatever reason, whatever they tried, the magical glove refused to fit even the most eligible of bachelors. Only fitting for its owner, wherever he was.
As they rounded to the last house, a beautiful looking manor at the edge of the forest. Morando noticed Queen Aja’s saddened face. The Queen had been asked to go with Morando in his search by her brother. Krel didn’t trust Morando but he did trust Aja so if anything he knew the man had to do as he said with her next to him.
“What's wrong my Queen?” General Morando asked, earning Aja’s attention.
“We haven't found the boy…” She explained. When the ball was over Krel spent hours explaining everything to Aja about his time with the mystery prince. About how he wasn’t a prince but a servant boy. About his life that seemed to be filled with magic and sorrow. Even his scarred hands, the glove they now possessed had hidden. “I'm disappointed for my brother.” She said softly.
“Oh, come on, now! Don't lose heart, there's one more house.” The General smiled, knowing they wouldn’t be finding this boy there either. He’d been worried his plan had failed when Aja had gone ahead and got engaged to Steve, but now with the prince still up for grabs he could salvage all his efforts to make Akiridion more powerful. “We must leave no stone unturned.” He hummed.
Gunmar and Angor watched the royal guard approach their house, not really wanting to try on the glove as expected from them.
“Mother, I don't want to marry a prince!” Gunmar shuddered as Morgana made her son presentable.
“You won’t have to, dear!” She promised. “However it’s an order from the King himself that every eligible bachelor must try to put the glove on.” She then went to open the door and saw the Queen of Akiridion herself and General Morando at her door.
“Your Majesty?” She bowed to Aja who in turn nodded. “What a wonderful surprise.” She smiled at Morando.
“A moment of your time, good lady.” He said, returning the smile.
“Of course, please. This way.” She told the two of them, allowing both in.
Douxie heard someone enter downstairs but could not see who exactly, not that it mattered they probably weren’t here for him anyway. Right now the boy was laying on his cot as the sound of muffled voices from downstairs led up to his room. Though Douxie was sad, happiness dared to linger in his mind as he went through every single good memory. Scared that if he stopped thinking about them for one second they’d fade away. He knew that the ball, and his time with the prince, would become beautiful, distant memories, like those of his father and mother, and his golden childhood.
Archie suddenly ran at the boy, shocking Douxie because there was absolutely no way out, so how could the cat have gotten in?
“Arch, you're okay!” Douxie smiled, thankful that one good thing had decided to stay. He’d feared Morgana had done something.
“Nevermind that! Douxie you need to get downstairs! The royal guard and the queen are here!” The cat explained quickly, jumping around trying to express the urgency of the situation.
“What!?” Douxie asked, sitting up quickly. “Queen Aja!?”
“They have your glove! Said they were sent by the King to look for you!” He then swatted the boy’s leg. “Come on then! You need to find a way out of here!” Douxie looked at the cat disheartened.
“I don’t know how!? Morgana is watching me from the shadows and she took my bracelet!” He explained. Archie shook his head.
“Don’t give up! That artifact was to only help draw the powers out, you still have magic in you!” He encouraged. “Look Douxie, this is your last chance to find happiness in life! I will be damned as your best friend if I don’t help you take it!” He said firmly, sitting on the ground. Douxie smiled at the cat and pet Archie softly.
“Oh where would I be without you Archibald?” He said fondly before looking around his room. “The doors are locked and the windows are boarded by shadow magic!” He explained. “How did you get in?” He asked the cat, genuinely curious.
“Not in a way you’d have easy access in…” Archie said, looking up to the ceiling. Douxie looked up as well and found a small hole in the roof big enough for Archie to fit through but definitely not Douxie.
“Well unless you can shrink yourself, I don’t think that’s your way out.” Archie said.
“Or….why not make it bigger for me!?” Douxie asked, a reckless grin on his face.
“I do not like where this is going.” Archie then spoke.
“Oh lighten up!” Douxie said, a plan already brewing in his mind.
Downstairs the glove had failed to fit either Angor or Gunmar, much to no one's disappointment.
“Very well.” Morando said, taking the glove back from Morgana. “Our task is done, my Queen.” He said to Aja, she nodded, thanking the family.
“But fate may yet be kind to us, boys.” Morgana then told her son’s who looked confused at her. Morando laughed, feeling the happiest he’d been since Krel and Aja became King and Queen.
“Indeed, madam!” He told her before the two walked out of the house, only to hear a loud boom come from above.
“Seklos and Gaylen, what was that!?” Aja said, startled as the house stopped shaking. Morgana did her best to hide her panic and anger.
“Let's be off, Queen Aja.” Morando said, hurrying the girl.
“Just a moment….” Aja told the man and turned back to Morgana. “Madam, there is no other bachelor in your house?” She asked, staring the woman down as if trying to read her soul.
“None.” Morgana lied with a smile. Aja wasn’t buying it, something was suspicious about all of this.
“Then what pray tell was that loud sound and shake?” She asked.
“There's been enough play-acting today, Your Majesty.” Morando practically pleaded with the girl as he gently pulled her by her arm. “Let's be off.” However Aja swiftly took her arm away from Morando and shook her head.
“But she's lying, Morando!” Aja spat, scowling at him.
“Nonsense! I trust the lady.” Morando scowled back at Aja. “We're leaving!” Suddenly there was the sound of footsteps above them. It distracted them before it came with a voice.
“WAIT!” Someone, a boy, screamed from atop the house's slanted roof. To Morgana and Morando’s horror, Douxie was scaling the roof, running towards the front while trying his best not to fall. “OH FUZZBUCKETS!” He screamed as he felt himself slide to the edge of the roof. The group of people watched him do so. Douxie held onto the edge of the roof, holding on for dear life but smiled as he saw Aja and the royal guard below him
“It’s okay! Let go! I’ll catch you!” Aja promised Douxie as she ran over to where he dangled, holding her arms out for the boy. Douxie whimpered nervously but decided to trust the girl and let go. Luckily it wasn’t too far of a drop and Aja quickly caught the boy as promised.
“Oh, thank you for not letting me fall.” Douxie sighed exasperated. It’d already taken a lot out of him to try and summon magic; he was still foreign too. However his plan to blast a larger hole worked and here he was.
“You needn’t worry! I have the flexibility and physical prowess of a larvox!” Aja smiled, setting Douxie down. He looked at Morando who held the glove and stepped forward.
“Please allow me to try it on?” He asked only for the man to stutter nervously and back away.
“You wretch!” Morgana shouted as she stormed at Douxie angrily. Aja was quick to jump in front of Douxie for his protection, but what stopped the woman was something else entirely.
“Halt by order of your King!” Krel’s voice rang out from the row of soldiers on their horses. Krel took off the hat that had made him look identical to the group of men and handed it to someone on his left. “Thank you, Steve.” He said before dismounting his horse and stepping forward.
“Your Majesty.” Morgana gasped, stepping back from Aja and Douxie
“Your Majesty, I did not know…” Morando said softly as Krel approached him and took the glove from his hand. He was done hearing Morando’s lies. Douxie looked at Krel in shock and Krel smiled as he laid eyes on Douxie. However as he tried to walk over to the boy Morgana yanked Douxie back by the arm.
“He is of no importance!” She announced to Krel who scowled at her fiercely.
“We’ll see.” He said swinging the glove at her in a taunting manner.
“I forbid you to do it!” Morgana told Douxie.
“And I forbid you to forbid him!” Krel shouted at Morgana. “Who are you going against my orders? A saint? A deity?” He asked. Morgana straightened her posture.
“I am his mother.” She said, Douxie looked at her disgusted as he roughly yanked his arm away from her.
“You have never been...and you never will be my mother.” He promised her, shoving past her and walking to Krel.
“Just remember who you are!” Morgana warned, except there was no real authority or threat in her voice. She sounded desperate and choked as she spoke. Douxie simply ignored her as he approached Krel. Krel studied his face, taking in all the cinders and dirt that stained it. He touched Douxie’s face, wiping some of the dark soot from his face with a smile. This was his mystery boy. He just knew it. Douxie smiled back at the boy, leaning into his touch, feeling bliss as he was finally in the presence of his love once more.
“Who are you?” Krel asked, not letting go of Douxie’s face as he spoke. Douxie thought. He was many things. A servant boy. A reckless wizard. A son of a dead mother and father. However he didn’t seem to mind any of it. In fact he embraced it.
“I am Hisirdoux Casperan.” He told Krel. “My stepfamily calls me Cinderdoux, but my parents called me Douxie, as does my best friend.” He explained. “I'm no prince. I have no carriage, no parents, and nothing in my name…I do not even know if that beautiful glove will fit.” He said softly. Krel could feel Douxie’s happiness as he spoke his truth to him.
“But...if it does...will you take me as I am? An honest servant boy who loves you?” The boy asked, as he held the hand that caressed his face. Krel couldn’t help but smile wider as he took in Douxie’s words.
“Of course I will, but only if you will take me as I am.” He said. “An apprentice still learning his trade.” Douxie nodded and the King then offered him the single glove he had in his hand. He let go of Douxie’s face and allowed the boy to slip on the glove. A perfect fit, in fact Douxie was unsure if anything had fit his hand better. He was corrected when Krel’s hand and fingers intertwined with his own. This definitely fits better.
Krel felt euphoria bloom in his chest as he looked at Douxie who smiled at him with all the love and adoration in the world. The moment was perfect and the two leaned in before a loud slam of the door interrupted them, making them pull apart.
“Hisirdoux!” Gunmar shouted as he stood in shock and fear, watching Douxie hold hands with the prince. The glove, still on his hand. Angor was at his side just as shocked.
“My dear little brother, I am so sorry!” Gunmar bowed with Angor following suit.
“So sorry.” Angor told the boy. Douxie blinked as he watched his stepbrother’s grovel at his feet, begging for forgiveness. However he was not worried about them at the moment, or their apology. He looked back at Krel who also looked surprised at the pathetic display. Douxie then looked at Morgana who looked completely and utterly defeated. She was on her knees with sorrow painting her face. Douxie observed his stepfamily as they seemingly came to terms with the reality of everything. He held no hatred for them, only pity. Especially for Morgana, in her eyes he could see she was simply a girl who had been beaten and broken down by the world, turning her cold and bitter. Douxie sighed, if things had been different that could have been him.
He faced the family and bowed.
“I forgive you.” He told them.

—

Yet forgiven or not, Douxie’s stepmother and her sons would soon leave with General Morando, and never set foot in the kingdom again. The kingdom rejoiced as their King and Queen had secured their engagements with their chosen partners.
Queen Aja’s wedding was one of the most beautiful the kingdom had ever seen. She wore her mother’s wedding dress as respect to her mother or father not being able to be there to watch her marry. Douxie and Krel had to help Steve stop blubbering like an absolute baby as he watched Aja walk down the aisle. He was hopeless, but he and Aja both were. They were happy and that was all that mattered.
Once the two newlyweds left for a honeymoon, Krel stood next to Douxie who was enjoying the view from their bedroom balcony.
“Are you sure you don’t want a wedding like that?” Krel asked, taking Douxie’s hand.
“Yes, those big bashes were never my thing anyway!” Douxie told the King who smiled.
“Agreed, no need for all the dramatics!” Krel said.
“Says the drama queen!”
“Hey! That’s King to you!”
Krel then looked over the balcony as the kingdom below continued to stir with life and activity.
“Oh by the way! Some old man dropped something off for you this morning!” Krel then said, he walked back into their room, leading Douxie inside as well before presenting him a small box. Douxie looked at it curiously.
“Do you know what it is?” He asked his fiance. Krel shook his head.
“Tha man said only you were to open it.” He explained. Douxie took the box and sat on the bed before opening it. What was inside was enough to make him cry tears of joy.
“My band!” Douxie shouted as he stared at his thought to be gone forever, wristband. His last gift from Papa. He took it and quickly put it on his wrist, it felt just right, fitting him well and once again he felt whole. At the bottom of the box lay a small note with scribbled handwriting. Douxie carefully picked it up and started reading.

I had to call in a few favors but I was able to get it back for you.
Be careful next time you face a wizard with shadow magic!
However, enjoy it Hisirdoux and I hope to see you well soon.
Your fairy godfather

Douxie couldn’t help but laugh at the note before he stood up and embraced Krel, who happily hugged the taller boy back.
“I love you.” He told him as he let go and looked at the King.
“I love you as well.” Krel smiled. He caressed Douxie’s face looking into his eyes.
“Are you ready?” He asked his partner. The future was uncertain and would certainly not stop being a treacherous journey for either of them.
“For anything, so long as it's with you.” Douxie reassured Krel, holding both of his hands.
“Be kind.” He spoke.
“And have courage, and all will be well.” Krel finished. Douxie then leaned in and gently pressed his lips onto Krel’s. Krel held onto Douxie tightly, worried as if his legs would fail him if he let himself fall any deeper into the kiss. The two parted, their foreheads pressed together as Douxie stared lovingly at Krel.
“My King.” He whispered.
“My Douxie.” Krel answered, and the two kissed again.
So Krel and Douxie were married soon after, and they were counted to be the fairest and kindest rulers the kingdom had known.
Douxie continued to see the world not as it is, but as it could be, if only you believe in courage and kindness and occasionally...just a little bit of magic.