Light Of Valencia - Tumblr Posts

Lucette: I respect no one more than Uncle Kane.

Also Lucette: Lol, time to disobey Kane’s direct orders and get in trouble

Lucette: I don’t think I should leave Valencia during this time. Uncle would get angry.

Venomous Voice to Lucette: STFU and get on the damn ship. Kane won’t even notice, you’ll only be gone for a few minutes.

Kane Oneshot: Learning of Death

   “Uncle Kane.” A small, childish voice called out to the tall clockwork being sitting at his worktable. Kane paused in his work to look down, finding his six year old niece waiting for him next to his left leg. He could tell by the downcast look in her blue eyes that something or someone had upset her.

   “What is the matter, mia luce?” He asked, reaching down to pick her underneath her arms to place her on his lap, reaching around her to go back to working on the device his father assigned to him.

   “Uncle Kane....Do you think Grandpa is going to die soon?” 

Kane froze in his movements, his processor replaying the odd question to ascertain that he heard correctly the odd question she asked before looking down at her.

   “Why do you ask such an odd question, Lucette? And where has this come from?”

The little girl fidgeted in his lap at the question, shifting left and right until she finally either gave up or got comfortable enough to move on to fiddling with her curls. “You know my friend Tanya? The one with the pretty hair?”

Kane nodded his head in reply to her question. This summer for the past month, the daughter of the baker would always come by the workshop and ask for Lucette to go out and play. Each day his creator would allow his little granddaughter out with only a smile, pat on the head and a light warning to return home by sunset. And each day she would return home, dirt on her brown cheeks and a smile stretching wide. She would always chatter about the child’s vibrant orange hair, talking about how it matched the sunset and why they did not have hair like that. The girls seemed to get along without fuss so Kane let them be. Until now.

   “Well, her dog died last night.”

   “I am sorry to hear that.” he said, not actually caring.

   “Mhm, She was telling me about it and we got into a fight”

Kane’s head tilted to stare at the child in slight confusion. Lucette was not a particularly troublesome child, she did not pick fights with people and does her best to get along with everyone without problem. “What was the fight about?”

   “I said something really mean. But I didn’t mean to!” She quickly shouted, trying to get her excuse in.

   “What did you say?”

Lucette’s icy blues stared down at her feet for a while before looking back up at him to answer. “I said that if she hadn’t given her lizard chocolate, that he wouldn’t have died.”

If Kane were human, he was sure his eyebrows would’ve shot up in surprise. That did sound like something she would say but only when she was pushed. “And why did you say that?”

Lucette’s lips pursed as her eyebrows furrowed in an expression he recognized as frustration. “Because she kept complaining about getting another one. She was very loud and making my head hurt.”

Kane would’ve smiled if he could, a light feeling appearing once again. He does not know what it is or why it keeps reappearing only at certain times. He will have to question his father once he returns. “And you said that so that she will be quiet.”

At the young girl’s nod, Kane nodded his head and went back to his work. “And what did she say to that?”

    “She s-said that when my Grandpa dies, t-then she will l-laugh at his funeral.” Lucette’s voice started wobble as she began to cry, the words no doubt having cut deep. Putting his screwdriver down, he once again picked his niece up to cradle her in his arm while he worked with his other hand.

   “Lucette, every living being in the Spiral dies. One way or another. Some live longer than others. Some die peacefully, some don’t. Some live for hundreds of years while others live for only a couple of years. Death comes to them all equally.” Kane explained gently, his sockets focused on the machine on the table while his mind worked on a way to explain the inevitable end of living beings that they all must meet to a child. He would’ve spoken bluntly but remembered his father’s words on how fragile children were.

   “Be gentle, my son. Especially with your words. Children are sensitive creatures that respond to everything they see and hear. They soak it up and it stays with them. Permanently. Depending on what it is, it can either hurt them in the future and hinder their progress or it can help them grow. Be patient, mio figlio. I know it may not seem like it right now, but trust me when I say, that once you see the woman she grows up to be, you will realize that it was all worth it.”

   “So Grandpa will die?” Lucette asked, the tears getting bigger.

   “Yes, lux mea. But, if you are good girl, then not for a long, long time. Same goes for your parents and you. If you eat all of your vegetables, yes that includes your sprouts too, and behave yourself; then you will live for a long time.” He answered, using his thumb to wipe away her tears. Lucette sniffed her nose and wiped away the rest of her tears herself. “Understand?”

   “Si, zio!” She chirped, hopping out of his arms onto the ground, smoothing her little green dress. It was still strange to Kane on how fast children's moods changed, sobbing one minute and then jumping with excitement the next. He was about to tell her to go upstairs and get ready for dinner when his audio picked up the sound of familiar footsteps walking up to the door.

   “Lucette, why don’t you go and give Father a big hug to show how much you care?” He suggested, patting the girl’s dark curls as he got back to work. The next thing he heard was the patter of small feet, and the front door opening. 

   “Grandpa!”

   “Hahaha Lucette! What’s the surprise greeting for?”

   “No reason, Grandpa. Just showing that I really, really, really love you. A lot.”

   “Haha I love you too, Mima. Now, go see if you can get your uncle away from work for a bit.”

   “Okay. Uncle Kane!”   

Lucette had tried her best to calmly walk past Deacon but knew the moment he stopped her with his cane that he no doubt saw Uncle Kane’s still irritated behavior from the argument they had. She opens her mouth to greet Deacon, only to frown in irritation when he assumes that she did something. 

“I have done absolutely nothing, Deacon. It is Uncle who you should be asking that particular question to, not me. I merely stood my ground. It was Uncle who got angry at me first. All over an idiotic marriage proposal that I have and had no interest in.” She says haughtily, a scoff in her voice hidden under her words. 

One half of her mind was appalled at her tone, mentally strangling her to apologize to both him and Uncle but the other half stomped her foot and was practically breathing smoke out of her nose with anger. Telling her that she was in the right and they were not.

@kingarise reblogged for a starter from: Deacon!

The Armada’s Emissary has noticed his creator’s questionable behavior as of late. He witnessed his short-temper earlier this morning while they were discussing important matters. Every time Deacon spoke to Kane, he found the Commander’s responses to be rash and unusually rushed. Reactions he rarely had - unless something has agitated him as of late.

While walking down one of the hallways, he finds Lucette heading in his direction. Deacon decides to stop Valencia’s princess by holding his cane out in her way, ensuring he had her full attention. Whatever was bothering Kane was likely on her behalf - she’d been causing nothing but trouble to both the Elite and Valencia lately.

“What have you done now?” He asks, not bothering to clarify himself.

Following Deacon over to the side of the large hallway, Lucette casts a quick glance around her to make sure no one was around before finally letting out a heavy sigh, most of her anger draining away. When he asks who had asked for her hand, she could not restrain the eye roll her eyes did, a minor spark of annoyance appearing before dimming down.

“Duke Alfonso VII of Castille. One of the tiny few of human nobles in that stinkhole of Monquista. From what I have heard, he only became duke of that enormous providence a year ago. The Monquistans are quite desperate to have Valencia. Too bad, they will not have it nor me.” 

 Lucette stares out the side of one of the many large windows in the hallway, her icy blue eyes narrowing into sharp daggers at the thought of marrying that pathetic, obvious excuse of a puppet. Not only will that be humiliation of herself, it would be humiliation of Valencia, of her people! And yet for some reason, her Uncle still insisted on her even considering the proposal! No! She knew exactly why! Her uncle could not resist the opportunity of having a chance to take and control Monquista’s largest providence. Of finally having a chance to bring down the prideful monkeys under his control.

@kingarise reblogged for a starter from: Deacon!

The Armada’s Emissary has noticed his creator’s questionable behavior as of late. He witnessed his short-temper earlier this morning while they were discussing important matters. Every time Deacon spoke to Kane, he found the Commander’s responses to be rash and unusually rushed. Reactions he rarely had - unless something has agitated him as of late.

While walking down one of the hallways, he finds Lucette heading in his direction. Deacon decides to stop Valencia’s princess by holding his cane out in her way, ensuring he had her full attention. Whatever was bothering Kane was likely on her behalf - she’d been causing nothing but trouble to both the Elite and Valencia lately.

“What have you done now?” He asks, not bothering to clarify himself.

Lucette lets out a small huff of amusement at Deacon’s flat statement. She is a bit surprised that Deacon of all people did not know of this, considering he is Kane’s right hand, but even Kane had plans that the Elites were left in the dark about. She expected nothing less. Hearing Deacon’s guess, she lets out a loud laugh though it wasn’t from amusement. The anger was returning again.

“HA! I wish! No, he is instead upset with me for not accepting the proposal! “Think rationally, Lucette. Just consider it for a single moment, Lucette. You are acting like a spoiled child, Lucette! You are thinking like a commoner, Lucette! Why are you still holding onto that minuscule false hope for Teach, Lucette? You know he is a pirate now, Lucette!” She mocked her Uncle’s words, tears starting to fall down her face and her voice wobbling once she said the name of her old betrothed turned traitor. She did not want to admit that her uncle’s words had hurt, but they always do. She did not want to cry in front of Deacon but he has seen her cry many times already. Once more would be irrelevant.

“I know that as the princess, it is my duty to marry and produce a suitable heir to the throne as soon as it is possible but...I...I am just not ready for marriage. I...I-I just...I don’t know.” She then admits helplessly, wishing once more that Queen was here. Or that Momma was still alive.

@kingarise reblogged for a starter from: Deacon!

The Armada’s Emissary has noticed his creator’s questionable behavior as of late. He witnessed his short-temper earlier this morning while they were discussing important matters. Every time Deacon spoke to Kane, he found the Commander’s responses to be rash and unusually rushed. Reactions he rarely had - unless something has agitated him as of late.

While walking down one of the hallways, he finds Lucette heading in his direction. Deacon decides to stop Valencia’s princess by holding his cane out in her way, ensuring he had her full attention. Whatever was bothering Kane was likely on her behalf - she’d been causing nothing but trouble to both the Elite and Valencia lately.

“What have you done now?” He asks, not bothering to clarify himself.

Through the veil of her tears, Lucette sees Deacon offer her a handkerchief, taking it from him gingerly and wiping away her tears. She could already that venomous voice waking up in her cage, no doubt woken up by her torment.

“I know I shouldn’t, Deacon, but it’s Edward. I still despise him for what he did and want to make him suffer for it but you know how how us humans are. After that disaster of a betrothal three years ago, I am just scared. There are not many human royals in the Spiral and not too many human nobility. What if I cannot find someone compatible?” She worries, her old fears popping up once again. When she and Edward had been betrothed to each other as children and grew up together, she had naively thought that he was her Prince Charming from fairy tales. Now all of those old feelings were coming back to bite and they were biting hard.

Lucette’s eyes widen when she hears that Uncle Kane was regretting the argument between them, a small smile appearing on her face. 

“I do too. I just feel like...After Edward, Uncle promised me that he would not force me to marry anyone as long as I did choose someone by the time I am crowned Queen. I just feel like Uncle is going back on his word.” 

@kingarise reblogged for a starter from: Deacon!

The Armada’s Emissary has noticed his creator’s questionable behavior as of late. He witnessed his short-temper earlier this morning while they were discussing important matters. Every time Deacon spoke to Kane, he found the Commander’s responses to be rash and unusually rushed. Reactions he rarely had - unless something has agitated him as of late.

While walking down one of the hallways, he finds Lucette heading in his direction. Deacon decides to stop Valencia’s princess by holding his cane out in her way, ensuring he had her full attention. Whatever was bothering Kane was likely on her behalf - she’d been causing nothing but trouble to both the Elite and Valencia lately.

“What have you done now?” He asks, not bothering to clarify himself.

Lucette lets a short laugh at Deacon’s words of Kane’s unpredictability, but then stops when he talks about Kane caring. She of course knew that her Uncle cared about her, she would not be here if he did not, but it never truly occurred to her that how much it showed. She had always assumed that whenever Kane shown displeasure or anger with her that it was a sign of him getting tired of her.

“You...you are right, Deacon. I should have thought more deeply about Uncle’s reactions and behaviors. He is not a simple...clockwork man.” She quietly admits, a sense of shame creeping up her arms. She raises a single black eyebrow when Deacon suggested that she have an honest conversation with her Uncle after they had an argument but she then realizes her mistake and mentally smacks herself, her expression shifting into one of embarrassment. Of course after an argument, especially now that they both had some space from each other. Though it would probably be best to save it until tonight or early tomorrow before lessons. Just in case. 

“You’re right, Deacon. Maybe it is time that Uncle and I have a true discussion like adults rather than yelling at each other like children. It may not change his stance on the matter but...maybe it would help him realize that I am not withholding my approval out of spite or for Teach. I am just waiting for the right prince or noble to woo me off my feet and for him to be worthy of Valencia and her people. I am certain that Uncle wouldn’t like some inexperienced fool to have some control of Valencia, no?” She asks, a sly gin blooming upon her lips with her rising mood. Only to sour again when she felt her stirring about and getting ready to say something. Before Deacon’s progress could be ruined, she threw her back into the cage and turned her attention once more on Deacon, making sure to wipe away any trace of discomfort or annoyance from her face. 

@kingarise reblogged for a starter from: Deacon!

The Armada’s Emissary has noticed his creator’s questionable behavior as of late. He witnessed his short-temper earlier this morning while they were discussing important matters. Every time Deacon spoke to Kane, he found the Commander’s responses to be rash and unusually rushed. Reactions he rarely had - unless something has agitated him as of late.

While walking down one of the hallways, he finds Lucette heading in his direction. Deacon decides to stop Valencia’s princess by holding his cane out in her way, ensuring he had her full attention. Whatever was bothering Kane was likely on her behalf - she’d been causing nothing but trouble to both the Elite and Valencia lately.

“What have you done now?” He asks, not bothering to clarify himself.

Lucette raises a single eyebrow when Deacon stopped midway into his sentence, something he rarely does. Too late, though, she already knew what he was insinuating. As if she hadn’t listen to Kane rant dozens of times.Only to freeze when Deacon points out that he saw her expression change that she had tried to hide and asked her if there was something else going on.

“Deacon, I alrea-AH!” She was about to speak until a sharp pain from her skull interrupts her, forcing her to bend over and grab her head to attempt to ease the pain. No, no,no, she can’t be doing this NOW.

@kingarise

Lucette lets a short laugh at Deacon’s words of Kane’s unpredictability, but then stops when he talks about Kane caring. She of course knew that her Uncle cared about her, she would not be here if he did not, but it never truly occurred to her that how much it showed. She had always assumed that whenever Kane shown displeasure or anger with her that it was a sign of him getting tired of her.

“You…you are right, Deacon. I should have thought more deeply about Uncle’s reactions and behaviors. He is not a simple…clockwork man.” She quietly admits, a sense of shame creeping up her arms. She raises a single black eyebrow when Deacon suggested that she have an honest conversation with her Uncle after they had an argument but she then realizes her mistake and mentally smacks herself, her expression shifting into one of embarrassment. Of course after an argument, especially now that they both had some space from each other. Though it would probably be best to save it until tonight or early tomorrow before lessons. Just in case.

“You’re right, Deacon. Maybe it is time that Uncle and I have a true discussion like adults rather than yelling at each other like children. It may not change his stance on the matter but…maybe it would help him realize that I am not withholding my approval out of spite or for Teach. I am just waiting for the right prince or noble to woo me off my feet and for him to be worthy of Valencia and her people. I am certain that Uncle wouldn’t like some inexperienced fool to have some control of Valencia, no?” She asks, a sly gin blooming upon her lips with her rising mood. Only to sour again when she felt her stirring about and getting ready to say something. Before Deacon’s progress could be ruined, she threw her back into the cage and turned her attention once more on Deacon, making sure to wipe away any trace of discomfort or annoyance from her face.

“I do not think any of us would appreciate an unsuitable heir. It is already enough that-” Deacon stops himself from trailing any further, not meaning to imply what he is thinking. He corrects himself and stands taller, taking a small note of Lucette’s facial expressions. He usually pays close attention to body language, and has noticed she’s been struggling this whole session.

“It seems that the argument must be affecting you greatly, or there is something else at hand.” He leans further to get a better look at her face. “Is something the matter, your highness?”

“No, no, I’m fine. It’s nothing.” Lucette tries to wave away Deacon’s worry, only to groan again as another sharp wave of pain hits her head, stumbling a bit. When he asks her if seeing Kane would help, she hastily shakes her head, pausing only for a second to consider it. When she did, the pain got much worse, prompting a whimper out of her.

“No, please, do not bother Uncle.” She begs, handling another onslaught of pain before it finally ebbed away, leaving her panting for air. She should go see Kane, knowing him, he could help her in some way but Lucette’s pride absolutely refused. What would her think of her, seeing her in such a sorry state? But he has already seen her in worse states before!

@kingarise

Lucette lets a short laugh at Deacon’s words of Kane’s unpredictability, but then stops when he talks about Kane caring. She of course knew that her Uncle cared about her, she would not be here if he did not, but it never truly occurred to her that how much it showed. She had always assumed that whenever Kane shown displeasure or anger with her that it was a sign of him getting tired of her.

“You…you are right, Deacon. I should have thought more deeply about Uncle’s reactions and behaviors. He is not a simple…clockwork man.” She quietly admits, a sense of shame creeping up her arms. She raises a single black eyebrow when Deacon suggested that she have an honest conversation with her Uncle after they had an argument but she then realizes her mistake and mentally smacks herself, her expression shifting into one of embarrassment. Of course after an argument, especially now that they both had some space from each other. Though it would probably be best to save it until tonight or early tomorrow before lessons. Just in case.

“You’re right, Deacon. Maybe it is time that Uncle and I have a true discussion like adults rather than yelling at each other like children. It may not change his stance on the matter but…maybe it would help him realize that I am not withholding my approval out of spite or for Teach. I am just waiting for the right prince or noble to woo me off my feet and for him to be worthy of Valencia and her people. I am certain that Uncle wouldn’t like some inexperienced fool to have some control of Valencia, no?” She asks, a sly gin blooming upon her lips with her rising mood. Only to sour again when she felt her stirring about and getting ready to say something. Before Deacon’s progress could be ruined, she threw her back into the cage and turned her attention once more on Deacon, making sure to wipe away any trace of discomfort or annoyance from her face.

“I do not think any of us would appreciate an unsuitable heir. It is already enough that-” Deacon stops himself from trailing any further, not meaning to imply what he is thinking. He corrects himself and stands taller, taking a small note of Lucette’s facial expressions. He usually pays close attention to body language, and has noticed she’s been struggling this whole session.

“It seems that the argument must be affecting you greatly, or there is something else at hand.” He leans further to get a better look at her face. “Is something the matter, your highness?”

Blue eyes peeked up at Deacon through her dark hair as Lucette considered her choice. The last time she talked to Uncle about her...headaches and the voice, he started to act a bit strange and secretive, telling her that if it happened again or got worse to go to him. So she wouldn’t be doing anything wrong, but...

“Are you certain that he isn’t busy with other business? I really do not want to disturb him with my unwanted problems.” She asks, holding onto Deacon’s hand tightly so she wouldn’t fall. Others would find the coldness of the clockwork’s hand startling but she found comfort in the chill. It grounded her, in a way.  “I do believe it would be smart to inform Uncle about this but...”

She did not know why she stopped but she did anyway. But what? But her foolish pride? But she was still angry? She wasn’t. Her anger has evaporated  into thin air long ago. But that doesn’t mean Kane’s own did.

“You are right, Deacon but still, I..” She tried again but still, something was stopping her. 

@kingarise

Lucette lets a short laugh at Deacon’s words of Kane’s unpredictability, but then stops when he talks about Kane caring. She of course knew that her Uncle cared about her, she would not be here if he did not, but it never truly occurred to her that how much it showed. She had always assumed that whenever Kane shown displeasure or anger with her that it was a sign of him getting tired of her.

“You…you are right, Deacon. I should have thought more deeply about Uncle’s reactions and behaviors. He is not a simple…clockwork man.” She quietly admits, a sense of shame creeping up her arms. She raises a single black eyebrow when Deacon suggested that she have an honest conversation with her Uncle after they had an argument but she then realizes her mistake and mentally smacks herself, her expression shifting into one of embarrassment. Of course after an argument, especially now that they both had some space from each other. Though it would probably be best to save it until tonight or early tomorrow before lessons. Just in case.

“You’re right, Deacon. Maybe it is time that Uncle and I have a true discussion like adults rather than yelling at each other like children. It may not change his stance on the matter but…maybe it would help him realize that I am not withholding my approval out of spite or for Teach. I am just waiting for the right prince or noble to woo me off my feet and for him to be worthy of Valencia and her people. I am certain that Uncle wouldn’t like some inexperienced fool to have some control of Valencia, no?” She asks, a sly gin blooming upon her lips with her rising mood. Only to sour again when she felt her stirring about and getting ready to say something. Before Deacon’s progress could be ruined, she threw her back into the cage and turned her attention once more on Deacon, making sure to wipe away any trace of discomfort or annoyance from her face.

“I do not think any of us would appreciate an unsuitable heir. It is already enough that-” Deacon stops himself from trailing any further, not meaning to imply what he is thinking. He corrects himself and stands taller, taking a small note of Lucette’s facial expressions. He usually pays close attention to body language, and has noticed she’s been struggling this whole session.

“It seems that the argument must be affecting you greatly, or there is something else at hand.” He leans further to get a better look at her face. “Is something the matter, your highness?”

Deacon’s words of Kane dropping more important things for her surprise her but at the same time they didn’t. She knew that her Uncle cared about her dearly, but sometimes, its nice to hear it reaffirmed from someone else.

“You are right. If...if you are certain that Uncle would not mind us intruding.” She gives in, cowering behind Deacon as they approached the door.

‘How do you know that dear Uncle Kane won’t turn you away?’ 

Lucette cannot tell if those were her fears whispering or her. Another vicious headache ripped through her skull, giving her the answer. One she didn’t want. It seemed like with every step she took, she felt like something was weighing her down. As if a weight was on her back. Filled with the sudden urge to sit down, she started to pull on Deacon’s arm.

“Deacon, I-I think...I think I need to-to sit down.” She says, beginning to pant, out of breath suddenly. 

“I...I do not...feel well. Can you...can you bring Uncle?” She asks, falling down to kneel on one knee, gingerly massaging her head to try to make the sick feeling go away.

@kingarise

Lucette lets a short laugh at Deacon’s words of Kane’s unpredictability, but then stops when he talks about Kane caring. She of course knew that her Uncle cared about her, she would not be here if he did not, but it never truly occurred to her that how much it showed. She had always assumed that whenever Kane shown displeasure or anger with her that it was a sign of him getting tired of her.

“You…you are right, Deacon. I should have thought more deeply about Uncle’s reactions and behaviors. He is not a simple…clockwork man.” She quietly admits, a sense of shame creeping up her arms. She raises a single black eyebrow when Deacon suggested that she have an honest conversation with her Uncle after they had an argument but she then realizes her mistake and mentally smacks herself, her expression shifting into one of embarrassment. Of course after an argument, especially now that they both had some space from each other. Though it would probably be best to save it until tonight or early tomorrow before lessons. Just in case.

“You’re right, Deacon. Maybe it is time that Uncle and I have a true discussion like adults rather than yelling at each other like children. It may not change his stance on the matter but…maybe it would help him realize that I am not withholding my approval out of spite or for Teach. I am just waiting for the right prince or noble to woo me off my feet and for him to be worthy of Valencia and her people. I am certain that Uncle wouldn’t like some inexperienced fool to have some control of Valencia, no?” She asks, a sly gin blooming upon her lips with her rising mood. Only to sour again when she felt her stirring about and getting ready to say something. Before Deacon’s progress could be ruined, she threw her back into the cage and turned her attention once more on Deacon, making sure to wipe away any trace of discomfort or annoyance from her face.

“I do not think any of us would appreciate an unsuitable heir. It is already enough that-” Deacon stops himself from trailing any further, not meaning to imply what he is thinking. He corrects himself and stands taller, taking a small note of Lucette’s facial expressions. He usually pays close attention to body language, and has noticed she’s been struggling this whole session.

“It seems that the argument must be affecting you greatly, or there is something else at hand.” He leans further to get a better look at her face. “Is something the matter, your highness?”

Lucette’s eyes flickers open to glance at Kane before weakly smiling up at Deacon.

“Thank you, Deacon. I...really appreciate it.” She breathes out, the pain receding back enough for her to weakly stand, legs shaking. Only to feel her smile fade away when he wished her a quick recovery. She desperately wants to tell him the truth, that this was not something that could be cured. That this was a curse she is forced to live with but in obscurity and mystery for the rest of her mortal life. She does not know what it is, what she is, why she was there, why Kane always seemed so secretive whenever she asks about it, or even how she got there! Is she real or just a personification of Lucette’s fears and doubt?

But despite these questions clawing her mind to shreds, she only gives Deacon a weary smile.

“I will do my absolute best to recovery as soon as possible.” 

With that, she turned her attention towards her uncle with a serious expression on her face.

“Uncle, we need to talk.”

@kingarise

Lucette lets a short laugh at Deacon’s words of Kane’s unpredictability, but then stops when he talks about Kane caring. She of course knew that her Uncle cared about her, she would not be here if he did not, but it never truly occurred to her that how much it showed. She had always assumed that whenever Kane shown displeasure or anger with her that it was a sign of him getting tired of her.

“You…you are right, Deacon. I should have thought more deeply about Uncle’s reactions and behaviors. He is not a simple…clockwork man.” She quietly admits, a sense of shame creeping up her arms. She raises a single black eyebrow when Deacon suggested that she have an honest conversation with her Uncle after they had an argument but she then realizes her mistake and mentally smacks herself, her expression shifting into one of embarrassment. Of course after an argument, especially now that they both had some space from each other. Though it would probably be best to save it until tonight or early tomorrow before lessons. Just in case.

“You’re right, Deacon. Maybe it is time that Uncle and I have a true discussion like adults rather than yelling at each other like children. It may not change his stance on the matter but…maybe it would help him realize that I am not withholding my approval out of spite or for Teach. I am just waiting for the right prince or noble to woo me off my feet and for him to be worthy of Valencia and her people. I am certain that Uncle wouldn’t like some inexperienced fool to have some control of Valencia, no?” She asks, a sly gin blooming upon her lips with her rising mood. Only to sour again when she felt her stirring about and getting ready to say something. Before Deacon’s progress could be ruined, she threw her back into the cage and turned her attention once more on Deacon, making sure to wipe away any trace of discomfort or annoyance from her face.

“I do not think any of us would appreciate an unsuitable heir. It is already enough that-” Deacon stops himself from trailing any further, not meaning to imply what he is thinking. He corrects himself and stands taller, taking a small note of Lucette’s facial expressions. He usually pays close attention to body language, and has noticed she’s been struggling this whole session.

“It seems that the argument must be affecting you greatly, or there is something else at hand.” He leans further to get a better look at her face. “Is something the matter, your highness?”

A rose looks gentle, fragile, and oh so inviting, the flower of temptation. But that is merely a mask, to hide the dagger-like thorns that it carries, hidden beneath the silky petals. Once a fool attempts to pluck it, unsuspecting of its defense, he will only receive a small droplet of blood as a warning to not try again. It’s true nature revealed.

So what does this mean for the Princess of Valencia, said to be the fairest rose in that beautiful world? Is the delicate being that she shows only a facade that hides a much darker, sharper version of herself? Does the light smile that she bestows upon suitors a dazzling mask so bright that the light blinds outsiders to cover the blood that those same teeth can bring out?

Is the Light of Valencia only a fading facade to hide the darkness within herself?

The Heavens’ Jewels

Another pic of Lucette, this time her looking bored. A small backdrop of stars behind her with her initials. She’s wearing a flower crown made of gold and jewels in the shape of flowers. Now that I’m looking at this with more awake eyes, her eyes are too close together and a bit too high. Oh well, you live and you learn. Originally, her lips were pink but they didn’t look right, so I changed it to black.

Lucette: I hope I do not mess up.

Also Lucette: Messes up two seconds later

Guys...

I just had the greatest idea ever! What if...What if I add Baby Lucette to the list of characters you guys can roleplay with? Now, when I say “Baby Lucette” I don’t mean newborn, I mean Lucette from the ages 8-11. By the time she was 8, Kane had overthrown the unicorn monarchy and became king, thus making her the princess. So the settings won’t change but Lucette’s personality and attitude will be veeeery different. More innocent, child-like, and extremely curious. The absolute best way to get a good read of Baby Lucette is to read this: The Light Hidden in the Garden 

If you are interested, just reblog or tell me and I’d be happy to play the part.

        “ What will you do? ”

                                            “ Show them what a 𝐑𝐄𝐀𝐋 𝐌𝐎𝐍𝐒𝐓𝐄𝐑 looks like. “ 

Learning to be Silent

Swallowing my words

Staring at the floor

Counting little cracks in the tile

Struggling to smile without choking

Learning to be silent

Lucette’s blue eyes watched dully as the multitudes of nobles danced around the ballroom, their laughter and chatter becoming only a background buzz to her. When that got boring, she directed her to the marble floor, counting and recounting the little decorative cracks. In the back of her mind, she vaguely wondered why they were there. Her uncle hated cracks, the little imperfections that they represented. He would be irritable if he noticed them. She managed to look up in time to notice Duke Armond walking up to the dias. She knew exactly what he was here for.

“Duke Armond, a pleasure to see you again on this fine evening. Good to see you in good health.” Her uncle greeted politely. Armond bowed deeply to the king before rising up with a grin.

“An astounding pleasure to see you in fine health as well, Your Majesty. And a fine evening it is, indeed! A magnificent ball, worthy for royalty. An honour to be here in your presence tonight.” The duke responded jubilantly, before turning his eyes onto her.

‘And here comes what he wants.’

“I desire to ask Her Highness if she would honour me with a dance at the ball. She moves so gracefully on the floor, it is as if she floats above us all. It would be a shame for her to only sit here on her throne the entire evening.” He proposed, his brown eyes going from her to Kane and back to her. When her uncle turned his face to her, she already knew what he wanted her to do.

“Lucette, why don’t you go with the Duke for the rest of the evening? You have been sitting here all night. Go enjoy yourself.” He ordered, waving a pale hand at her. At his words, she wanted to tighten her hands into fists and refuse, wanted to get up and go to her room, to get away from all the noise. But that was not how a princess behaves. So instead, she choked back her irritation and anger and smiled sweetly at her uncle.

“Yes, Uncle. I would be honored to dance.”

Watching how the dust

Dances out the door

Noticing my hands start to shake

Contemplating taking up smoking

Learning to be silent

Cassandra’s fire orange eyes stared distractedly at the door of her cabin, the papers on her desk forgotten as the pirate retreated into her mind. There was something...peaceful about watching the tiny dust particles flutter and flit out the doorway, into the outside world. Almost as if they were dancing. At the word dancing, Maria’s smiling face flashed in her mind, the same smile she would direct at Cassandra if she ever caught her dancing while doing her chores or work. Blinking the too beautiful image away, Cassandra casts a passing glance down at her hands. They were shaking. From what?

‘Maybe some cigars will help. I heard Puerto Mico makes some top quality ones. Raid a ship or two and I can snatch a couple to sell and for myself. But...Baba wouldn’t want me to sink that low.’ She contemplated, her eyes clouding over with a veil of grief at the thought of her Baba and his disapproval. He hated smoking, finding the practice distasteful. He would be rolling in his grave if he knew that she even thought about doing such a thing.

‘If he had a body to roll.’ Her mind supplied unhelpfully, reminding her that her parents did not get the fortune of being buried. The closest they got was burying the ashes, but it wasn’t the same.

“My lady.”

The synchronized voices brought her out of her reverie, turning her attention onto the two floating cloaked women.

“What is it?”

“It seems that Sir Mikhail has no interest in repaying you as you asked.” The left one answered, a sly tone under her words.

“He plans on running to Polaris to hide.” the right one continued, her tone empty andflat. Cassandra wanted to growl and throw her papers on the floor in rage but held herself back, sticking with an annoyed glare.

“Tell Esmerelda to chart a course to his location immediately.”

“Yes, my lady.”

Always hearing

“Hush, Ethal!”

“Silence your tongue, Cassandra!” The orphanage maid scolded harshly, glaring down at the little dusty child. The child’s cheeks turned red as tears started to gather in her eyes, a mix of anger and frustration rolling in them beside the tears.

“But it’s true! Baba told me so! He told me that I’m a princess!” She shouted up at the grown woman, her tiny voice barely filling the run down bedroom. The maid narrowed her eyes, her patience dwindling at the nonsense.

“Do not spout such ridiculous notions! Look at yourself! Do you look like a princess?” She asked the child sharply. Orange eyes gazed down at herself, her hand fiddling with the torn dress, the tattered edges barely grazing the tops of her bare feet. No, she did not look like a princess at all. She looked like a peasant girl from her Baba’s stories.

“Baba said clothes aren’t what makes a ruler!” She shouted back up at the maid, determination burning like a wild flame within. Only to be snuffed out and silenced harshly.

“Have you ever thought that your Baba lied to you? That he told you all these fantasy stories to make you feel better? To make you feel more important than you actually are?”

The cruel questions stabbed Cassandra deeply in her heart, doubt seeping in like poison.

‘That’s not true! It can’t be true! Baba would never lie to me! He said lying was wrong!’ Her little mind defended, trying to push the hurt and doubt away. “No! He would never lie to me!”

“Oh? And what exactly makes you think so?”

“Because….Because Mama wouldn’t let him!” She refuted, a quick moment of silence as she searched for a good answer. Only to reel back when the maid let out a sharp, haughty laugh.

“Your mother is no better then! Letting your father fill her daughter’s head with silly childish stories like that! She should’ve plucked you off his lap and set you both straight like any good, proper mother would do. She too failed her role!” The maid rudely insulted Cassandra’s deceased parents in her face, her words causing the tears to spill over.

“You can’t say that-”

“I can, I will, and I have! Your parents were nothing but a disgrace! Now, stop entertaining these idiotic thoughts!”

“But it’s tr-”

“HUSH, CASSANDRA!” The maid finally shrieked down at her, shocking the child into silence. By that point, a small crowd of children were watching the altercation from the doorway, eyes widening when the maid lost her temper. Now that Cassandra was finally quiet, the maid huffed and stormed out, not before snappishly sending the children to their rooms.

“Out, all of you! To your rooms, now! To bed with you all!”

As little Cassandra shuffled into bed, she softly began to cry, reaching inside her pillow to pull out a gleaming golden ring, her tiny fingers rubbing over the lion engraving.

“Baba…”

“Please, Vi!”

“Please, Lucette!” Queen’s exasperated voice floated down to the small, curly haired child standing before her. Light blue eyes glanced up sheepishly before looking back down at her slippered feet. The silk was cool on her skin but the heat on her cheeks from shame distracted her.

“But I don’t want to go to the tournament in these shoes. There’s a lot of standing and the shoes start to hurt my feet.” She mumbled, trying again to convince the female clockwork to let her wear her more comfortable black slippers that she would wear on the ship.

“Lucette, beauty is pain. Perfection is pain. You are the Crown Princess of Valencia. You represent Valencia and everyone in it, including Kane and us! You must look perfect! Those shoes are old, worn, and not fit for the feet of the princess! They do not even match with your dress!” Queen explained, trying her best to keep annoyance out of her voice.

“Then why can’t I change my dress?” She asked, tilting her head curiously. Queen let out an irritated sigh.

“Because I went through great lengths to get you that dress in time for the tournament today and it matches your eyes so wonderfully. It brings more attention to them, don’t you think?” She asked, trying to appeal to her admiration for her eyes. Lucette’s fingers fiddled with the slippery cloth nervously as she tried to decide her answer.

“Yes, but why do I have to bring attention to them if I’m at a tournament?” She questioned.

“Because, as I have said before, you are the principessa. Even though it is a tournament, the minute you and Kane arrive, all eyes will be on you. From the moment you step out of the carriage, to the moment you sail home.”

“But why?!”

“Because that is how it is! This is the world of royalty, Lucette! You must obey its rules!” Queen, finally reaching the end of her patience, snapped down at the princess. “Now, you WILL wear those shoes or so help me, I will bring Kane down here to deal with you himself!”

At the threat of her uncle getting involved, Lucette’s jaw snapped close. She knew that her uncle would not be as patient as Queen was.

“Yes, Queen.”

“Good.Now, go put on your rose pin and the sapphire flowers Rooke got you. It will be a nice contrast from the light blue.” Queen commanded, shooing the princess to her dressing room. Stopping by the door, Lucette turned her head to weakly try again but Queen’s cold tone ended any thought of rebellion.

“Enough, Lucette.”

“Let’s not have this conversation”

And so I stand by

While my mind takes a small vacation

La la la la

The rhythmic tapping of her pencil on the wooden desk became an irrelevant background noise as Cassandra’s eyes stared upwards at the ceiling, though her mind was somewhere else. In her head, she was enjoying a picnic with Maria in a magnificent garden, the flowers sweetening the air. Maria was dressed in a pale yellow sundress, a wide brimmed hat on top her head to protect her from the sun. She was glowing. Whenever the sunbeams hit her, she lit up and you wouldn’t be able to tell if the beams were coming from the sun or her. She was laughing at something, but then again, she was always laughing at something.

Cassandra let out a pleased sigh, her body relaxing further into the seat as she enjoyed her imaginary date with Maria.

La la la la

Despite her tutor’s droning, Lucette’s attention was on anything but the lesson. Her half lidded eyes stared out the large Polarian window next to her, the wide expense of one of the many cloudy skies that make up her home helping her fade into her daydreams. In those dreams, she was dancing again with Edward, his soft laughter ringing in her ears like a beloved melody as he spun her around. Even though he kept saying that he wasn’t that good at waltzing, he followed her steps like a shadow, his movement in tune with hers. His soft warm hands covered her own, holding them tightly as if she would fade away if he let go.

The air was warm, perfumed with the scents of the sweet smelling flowers that encircled them. This was their ballroom. The sun was their chandelier, the grass their marble floor, and the sound of turning gears and birds chirping was their music. Nothing could be better.

Making little sounds

Other folks ignore

A frown tugged at her lips when the topic changed to betrothals and weddings, an inevitable topic considering these were young noble girls. Lucette tried to make up an excuse to excuse herself from the group but they were too caught up in each other to notice her opening her mouth.

“My father told me that Count Lorenzo plans on asking for my hand soon.” One girl with pale blonde hair done up in a hairnet announced, proudly puffing out her bosom.

“Truly?! So soon? You’ve only been courted for six months!” Another exclaimed, her dark brown hair contrasting nicely against her sunny yellow dress.

“Of course! My father wouldn’t tell me such a thing if it were not true!” She adonished the brunette, narrowing her eyes at her for a moment.

“Pard-”

“Don’t let him get your hopes up! Who knows what shenanigans could happen!” A blue haired mare added in, silencing Lucette’s attempt to leave politely. She was becoming more and more uncomfortable as the conversation went on, their talk bringing up now painful memories.

“She’s right! For all we know, he could be out sneaking around with another woman! You know how noblemen are with their penchents for hoarding potential wives.” A different girl agreed loudly, twisting the knife in Lucette’s chest painfully. Her lungs felt like they were constricting, desperately begging for air but Lucette’s closed throat allowed none. A choked gasp tore from her lips, soft and distant. But the girls were far too busy being in each other’s business to spare a glance or even an ear to the princess’s cry.

“Do not fear, ladies. We talked a lot about our future. For instance, he says he wants three kids, two boys and a little girl.”

She and Edward also desired three children except they didn’t care about the gender of any one of them. Any child of either would’ve do. They would’ve loved them all equally. By now, tears were silently streaming down her face, a hand over her mouth as she tried to regain control over herself. But it was no use. The scars were still too fresh.

That was when Queen walked, asked to check on Lucette to see if she was alright. She was most definitely not.

“Mima!” Queen shouted, stopping the conversation as she hurried over to her side, cold hands softly resting on her cheeks.Lucette rested her weight against her as she sobbed in Queen’s arms, finally letting go now that someone familiar was there. Queen whirled around, glaring down venomously at the noblewomen with a rage few have ever seen. And even fewer live to tell anyone they’ve seen it at all.

“What is the meaning of this?! Why is she crying in your presence?!” Queen demanded, fixing her black gaze on each woman in the room.

“F-Forgive us, My Lady, but we do not know. We did not even notice that Her Highness was upset-”

“How could you not know?! She was sitting right here! You blind fools! You were to be her Ladies-in-Waiting and yet you did not notice your princess sobbing right behind you! What were you gossiping about?”

“We were only talking about Lady Giulia’s upcoming betroth-” The mare instantly froze, her eyes wide with realization matching the eyes of the others behind her. Queen was silent for a few minutes before giving them the final command.

“Dismissed.”

Immediately, all the girls quickly got up, curtsied and scurried out the door, frightened of Queen could do if they stayed any longer.

After that day, Queen forbid anymore lady in waiting auditions. Until Lucette was Queen and pick them herself.

Quieting the beating of my heart

Never being part of the moment

Cassandra felt as if her heart beat was too loud, which is odd considering she was walking down a busy street with Maria. Well, she was supposed to be, anyway. Now, Maria was in front with two other friends, A Necromancer and Life student, the two girls and boy chattering to each other excitedly about something. Too far away to hear properly. Too far away to be in the moment.

When the two friends got distracted by something for a moment, Maria took that time to look back at Cassandra, a worried look in her eye. Not liking that emotion on her, she gave her a wave and a smile, signalling that she was okay. But even as she did those actions, she felt numb. Not being part of the moment. But the action did the trick, receiving another grin from the pyromancer before the friends came back over and striked up another conversation with her. Dragging her attention away from Cassandra, once more. When they reached a popular cliffside, the Necromancer, Victoire, suggested a picture. They all grouped together, Cassandra behind Maria, but even as she smiled; she didn’t feel like she was there.

When she looked at the picture, she could recognize the false happiness look in her eyes. The look of absence. The look of never being part of the moment.

Learning to be silent

Learning there are some topics that we don’t even mention.

A group of courtiers quickly hushed each other when she drew closer, quickly bowing and curtsying to her when she passed. She snorted, able to see through their simpering act to see the pathetic snakes that they were. As if it wasn’t obvious just how exactly Baron Mateo died and who was behind it. She could not understand why her uncle didn’t punish these fools, they committed a crime in HIS kingdom and yet here they were, bowing and kissing her feet! When she reached her suites, she slammed the door and stomped to her dressing room where Alma was rearranging her jewelry.

“Alma, did you hear?!” She demanded angrily, her hair falling out of its carefully put together bun. Alma calmly placed another jewelry box back on the shelf as she answered the princess’s question.

“I assume you mean of Baron Mateo’s passing.”

“Ha! Passing? Is that what we call it now?” She taunted, roughly pushing her curls out of her face as she glared at the red veiled maid.

“It referring to what, Lucette?”

“You know exactly what I mean, Alma! Poison!” She shouted, banging a fist on the small table that lied between her and the clockwork. But Alma was not bothered, used to the girl’s fits of rage after all those years.

“Ah, I see. You suspect of there being poison involved.” She remarked, now done with the jewelry boxes and turning to her. Lucette growled deeply, not liking the clockwork’s words.

“I do not suspect. I know.”

“Really now? Please do explain to me how you know for certain.”

“Come now, Alma! Don’t be ridiculous! The last time anyone ever saw him alive was when he was stumbling to his room in a drunken stupor with a servant girl laughing in his arms, then the next morning he is found dead in his bed bleeding from every hole and pore on his body and the servant girl says she has no idea what happened? What in this mess sounds remotely believable to you that this was just some sickness?!” Lucette asked, unable to comprehend why her maid was acting so aloof.

“It is possible.”

“Possible doesn’t mean that that’s the truth, Alma.” She replied, arching an eyebrow at her. The clockwork let out a deep sigh, glancing out the window before focusing her attention back onto her.

“Yes, Lucette. But the King has decided that sickness was his killer and the King’s word is law.”

“But Alma-”

“Not another word, Lucette. No more mentions of this situation. From this day forth, Baron Mateo had lost a battle with a sickness and passed away. No poison, no rival families, none of that.” She commanded sternly, glaring down at the girl. Lucette’s cheeks were puffed in anger as her eyes spat venom at the clockwork but she only uttered two words.

“Yes, Alma.”

And if they come up

Then we try to be vague

“Hey Cassandra, what are you doing for Father’s Day?” Joseph, a pyromancer in her class, asked curiously. At the mention of Father’s Day, Cassandra’s body tensed. She didn’t want to tell anyone that her parents had been dead for years. She didn’t want to be known as the only girl who will be staying in her dorm room probably crying. But she knew that Joseph wouldn’t let her go if she refused to answer.

“Uh...I do not do anything on Father’s Day. I don’t celebrate it.” She mumbled, hurrying to stuff her books into her bag.

“Really? Why not?” He persisted, giving her a confused look. She bit her lip to try to keep from growling, the question getting under her skin. Why can’t he take a hint and leave her be?! Stay out of her business!

“Because he is not here.”

“Well duh, he can’t be in Ravenwood but-”

“He is not here and he is not there. He is in a place far away from here that I can’t reach. Now, if you’ll excuse me, Maria is waiting for me. I’m going to have dinner with her and her parents.” She snapped, giving the boy a sharp glare before storming out the doors and making her way to Bartleby where Maria waited.

“Hey Cas! Are you ready to-Are you okay?” She asked worriedly, stopping her excited question when she saw the look on her girlfriend’s face. Cassandra quickly reigned in her anger, letting it drain off her face as she took a deep breath and smiled sweetly down at the pyromancer.

“Yes, I’m fine. Just got into a bit of temporary annoyance. Are you ready to go?”

“Yup! Come on, my ma can’t wait to meet you!” Maria answered excitedly, tugging on the girl’s arm to pull her to the portal.

“Can’t wait.”

There are subjects from which we divert all attention

“Your Highness!”

Lucette’s head swivelled around to look behind her at the call of her title, releasing a sound of disgust when she saw that it was Count Alessandro walking over to her. Alongside his sister, Countess Agata.

‘Dominitus above, help me with my patience.’ She silently prayed as she put on a charming smile for the duo. After they bowed before her seated form, they rose and started up a conversation with her. Oh great.

“Your Highness, lovely for you to be the hostess of such an event. And in your own gardens, as well!” He complimented, his storm grey eyes bright. Looking at them hurt too much, reminding her heart of another with similar eyes, so she looked away and focused on the sister.

“Indeed, Fratello. You have cultivated these gardens for years with such love and care. and open it for the enjoyment of the children, both poor and noble. Such generosity!” Countess Agata continued, her pretty yellow fan waving back and forth like a cat’s tail. She gave them a tight smile, trying to seem delighted, but she can tell it didn’t reach her eyes.

“But of course, after all, I am the princess and the princess is to serve the people. Our children especially. They are our future.” She explained before a blonde haired little girl dressed in a pure white Robe a l’Anglaise Retrousse toddled up to, a glowing grin on her face.

“Miss Princess?”

“Yes, darling?” She asked, leaning down as she gave the child a genuine soft smile at the title of Miss Princess. Not something she has heard of before but it was said so sweet and innocently that she refused to reprimand the girl. The child held out a hand to her, a little white daisy clasped in her grip.

“I picked this for you!” She announced proudly, as if she had completed a task from Dominitus himself. Taking the flower, I leaned down to give her a gentle kiss on her cheek, drawing a sweet little round of giggles from her.

“Why thank you, darling. A gift fit for a princess, but then it shouldn’t belong to me.” She said in a dramatic shocked tone. This of course confused the young girl who looked around before looking back up at her.

“Then who?”

“Why, what a question! Only the most beautiful and sweetest princess in all of the Spiral!”

“Where is she?”

“Hmmm, weeeell” Lucette stretched out, tapping her chin before looking back down at the girl. “She is standing right in front of me.”

The child looked around her for a bit before she realized what Lucette meant. Lucette felt a flower of pride bloom in her chest when she saw the wide smile filled with joy and surprise that appeared on the child’s face. Gently putting the flower in the bright blonde hair, she gave her a little kiss on the cheek before speaking.

“Go have fun, little princess.”

“Thank you, Miss Princess!” She yipped happily before running off, no doubt going to tell her friends that the princess called her a princess.

“My, my, how well you get along with children.” A female voice purred, interrupting her thoughts. She resisted the urge to scowl at the reminder that they were still there, instead turning around to put her attention back on them. She didn’t like the way the Countess was looking at her over her fan. Like a predatory cat that found something to prey on.

“You work soo well with the little ones, Your Highness. Tell me, have you finally decided on whom you will produce an heir with?” She asked slyly. Lucette’s eyes widen before narrowing into harsh slits, her body shifting into fight mode.

“No, I have not. Not that that’s any of your concern. Your attention should be on producing an heir for your own husband. Oh, but, you haven’t yet, have you? You haven’t for the past 15 years of marriage, in fact. Barren as a useless field. I would keep a close eye on your husband if I were you. Who knows what other, younger, more fertile woman he will find an interest in.” She berated harshly, snapping open her own fan to hide the scowl that has twisted her features. The Countess’ face was the epitome of offended shock, her jaw dropped open as her eyes widened, a single hand rising to her stomach. In other times, Lucette would’ve felt sorry for her and apologized for her harsh words but now? No. She will not tolerate such blatant rudeness to her face in her domain!

“I-Your Highness, if I have offended you in anyway-”

“Your mere presence has offended me, Madame. Think before you speak, especially to royalty. Militus Terrus!” Lucette reprimanded before calling for her friend.

“Yes, Your Highness?” He asked with a bow, walking over from his post to stand next to her.

“Please escort Countess Agata out of the palace and off the palace grounds.” She ordered coldly, keeping her glare on the woman. A hint of a smirk could be seen on Terrus lips as he nodded and turned to the countess with a stern look.

“My lady, if you will please follow me as I escort you to your ship. Resistance is futile and will be met with force.” He recited monotonically, his hands shifting towards his pistols as a threat. The countess looked back and forth from Terrus to her, looking as if she were about to argue but seemed to know better when she met the princess’ glare. Giving her a curtesy, she let herself be led away by Terrus in silence.

“Count.”

“Y-Your Highness?” The flabbergasted man stuttered out, looking back at the princess almost fearfully. Lucette didn’t blame him, she was said to be a vicious woman in fights, after all.

“Do not bring Countess Agata back here, ever again. Until I pardon her.” She ordered darkly, her sharp eyes boring into his own.

“Yes, Your Highness.”

“Good.”

And some we avoid like the plague

“Hey, Cassie.”

“Hm?”

“Why don’t you ever take off that ring? You wear it everywhere you go, even in the shower.” Maria questioned, looking down at the sitting pyromancer on the floor from her perch on her bed. Cassandra’s heart skipped a beat at the question, her mind freezing before running around in panic.

‘What should I say? Should I tell her? But I don’t want her to get involved!’ Her mind debated back and forth before going with avoidance.

“Well, why don’t you ever take that bracelet off?” She rebutted, gesturing to the wide bead bracelet that Maria always wore under her clothes.

“Well, it’s waterproof.”

“So?”

So, I can put it in water and not have it fall apart.” Maria answered, with a tone saying that it should’ve been obvious.

“How are you so sure of that?” Cassandra asked, insistent on keeping Maria’s mind off her ring.The longer they talked, the more she would forget.

“Because it hasn’t fallen off yet.”

“So you’re just gonna wait until it falls off your arm and scatters beads all over the floor?”

“Well, no but-”

“So how are you sure?” Cassandra cut off Maria’s excuse, leaning against the bed frame casually. Maria’s brow furrowed in confusion at Cassandra’s question.

“Uh, well, I, um….I don’t know.” She finally admitted after minutes of searching for an answer.

“Exactly. Point made, checkmate.”

“But-”Maria was about to speak until the sound of the door bell Cassandra enchanted onto her door started to ring. “Pizza!”

Maria flipped backwards off the bed and ran to the door, getting the pizza and paying the guy before running over to Cassandra carrying the large pizza box.

“Bon Appetit!” She announced, placing the pizza box on the floor before sitting next to Cassandra.

“Do you even know any other French than that?”

“Nope.”

I’m

becoming a mime

Biting my tongue

Fingernails dug sharply into flesh as Lucette tried not to get up and strangle her ex lover who sat across from her. It was becoming more and more of a battle to stop herself from acting on her murderous rage and just stab him with something. Luckily for him, she didn’t have her weapons because of Ulysses and she was being somewhat held back by Ulysses. He’ll live another day.

“Favero”

“What?” She snapped, keeping her glare, safely hidden under her dark veil, latched on Teach.

“If you glare at him any longer, he is going to become suspicious.” Ulysses tried to warn the princess to no avail.

“He is already suspicious, Ulysses!” She hissed at him, finally turning her glare off of Teach on to him.

“Then do not add on to that suspicion by glaring at him with fire from Tartarus. I understand your anger and resentment towards him but you must not let it interfere with our mission. He will receive his punishment in due time.” He scolded her lowly, much to her annoyance. She opened her mouth to voice a protest but a harsh glare from those sharp red eyes made her bite her tongue to hold the words back. Instead, she looked down at her lap and let her anger shimmer in silence.

“Yes, Captain.”

Biding my time

Smoke hissed off the surface of the wooden with each aggravated tap of Cassandra’s fingers. In her other hand was a newspaper from Valencia. On the front page in big black, bold letters “Crown Princess of Valencia Hosts Large Celebration for New Bride.”. Underneath the headline was a picture of the wedding party with the princess sitting delicately on the edge like a little porcelain bird she has seen before in stores.While the focus was no doubt on the bride and groom, a person would have to have been blind to pretend that the majority of the attention was on the princess. Lucette. Lucette dressed in a pretty dark blue dress, no doubt made out of some fancy silk, lined in flashy silver. But the thing that stood out the most about her was her eyes. A bright shade of blue that matched the skies of Wizard City’s clearest days. They had a knowing light in them that the artist captured well, the small grin on her lips saying that she knew things hers did not. It disgusted her.

‘Blue eyes! Blue eyes! How can she be apart of our bloodline but not have the eyes or the fire magic?! If my uncle truly married a Valencian woman, why do I see so little of him in this slip of a girl?’ She questioned, the questions only making her more enraged until she crumbled the newspaper in her hands into a ball, getting ready to burn it until logic spoke up once more.

‘Wait. Prepare for the future. Do not be so quick to dismiss her absence of pyromancy when she has never had a need for it yet. Wait until it is time. Bide your time until an opportunity arises.’ She reminded herself, unfolding the newspaper only, to tear out the picture and throw the rest onto the floor. She stared at the picture for a while, as if she were staring down the girl at that very moment, before carefully folding it until it was a small square and dropping it into a drawer.

“Patience is key.” She murmured softly, sitting back down at her desk. Silently biding her time.

Trying not to scream

(Trying not to scream)

All around her was afire, blinding her vision with nothing but orange and yellow. She felt as if the ash and smoke had morphed themselves into a single hand to strangle her. She could hear screaming, the gender of the voice uncertain from how high its pitch has gotten. She herself was trying not scream, though she did not know why. Her mind was consumed by panic and fear, the most poisonous of emotions that spread to the rest of your body like wildfire.

“Baba!”

“Mama!”

“Uncle!”

She called out desperately into the darkness behind the flames,her voice uselessly reaching for a light of hope, a light of familiarity to get her out of this wretched place. But there was no one there. Not anywhere in this hellish landscape. She was alone. Utterly and completely alone.

Managed it before

(Managed it before)

She tried to reign in control of herself, trying to tamper down the terror that engulfed her. For a second she thought that she was already being torched by the fire, for a split second, she can see her already dark skin blister, boil, and char black. When she blinked however, she saw that she was fine and not yet burned. But was the fire closer than before?

“I need-I need to get out of here! Am I asleep? Is this all a dream? It has to be! It must be!” She tried to convince herself, wrapping her arms around herself as a futile attempt to comfort her.

Not knowing if I’m going to survive

And

As the fire creeped steadily closer to her, all the young woman could do was hug herself and grit her teeth. The scream had morphed into several different voices screaming, some familiar, other not. She tried to pinpoint them but it proved useless as they were all too mixed together to separate. When she took a step back, she let out a shrill scream when her leg was engulfed entirely in heat. She quickly jumped forward, just barely missing the roaring flames in front. The flames have gotten closer. She now only had a three feet space. And it was steadily decreasing.

“No, Mama!

“Papa!”

“Please somebody help me!”

That’s when it finally reached her. The searing claws of heat dug deep into the skin of her feet first, before soaring up her legs to her torso and latching onto her hair. She felt as if thousands of razor sharp blades were slowly peeling off her skin while dunked in saltwater, the pain blinding and deafening her to her her own shrieks of agony. She was locked in a maze of suffering with no exit. There was fire on her arms, in her hair, biting through her scalp, and she couldn’t feel her legs anymore. Her screams were now joined with the others.

Damn it!

Blue eyes snapped open as Lucette’s body shot up out of bed, her hands instantly grabbing the bed frame. As she stared at the the far side of the room, her breath coming out in quick, uneven pants, her mind trying to comprehend what she saw and is seeing now. Once she finally managed to get a solid grip of her terror and realize that she was in her room, she let go a heavy, exhausted sigh of relief; falling back down on her bed. The sweat on her skin made the air seem cooler than it was, something she did not mind in the least. She desperately wanted to tear off her cotton nightdress, but didn’t even have the energy to move an arm.

She was about to roll over when her bedroom door opened, letting in a dim ray of light.

“Lucette? Are you alright?” A smooth, mature yet gentle voice called out, alerting the princess to who she was. “I heard your heart rate rapidly increase unexpectedly in a way reminiscent of when you have nightmares.”

“Yes, I’m okay, Alma. Just a nightmare, that’s all.” She explained weakly.

“I see. Do you desire comfort in order to return to a peaceful rest?” She then asked, walking across the large bedchamber to her bedside. Lucette rolled over, facing Alma with tired eyes. As if sensing the unspoken answer, the red clothed maid sat down on the edge of her plush bed, stroking a single cold hand on her cheek as she began to softly sing.

“Little baby, hear my voice

I am beside you, oh maiden fair”

Fire orange eyes snapped open as Cassandra’s body bolted out of bed onto the floor, her fists erupting into flames. For minutes that felt like hours, she snarled and glared at the wooden wall of her cabin, her mind shifting into fight mode before calming down. Recognizing no threat, her body sagged forward, the short rush of adrenaline that powered her vanishing into thin air.

“A nightmare. I just had a nightmare, that’s all.” She murmured to herself softly, sinking back down on the bed. Half of her wanted to go down to Aftab’s stable but she didn’t want to disturb his rest. So she laid there, mentally chained to her bed as she tried to urge herself to sleep,  humming a half forgotten lullabye from years long gone under her breath.

I’ve got to practice

Practice

Learning

Hmm hmmmm hmmmmm