Formalities

~Formalities~


Light bled through the royal curtains as if they were not there but still he slept. Mayleena, the prince’s maid, chose never to wake him until around mid-day. He was always up so late outside the castle, the mischief he committed keeping him as such. They had developed a sort of trust over the years that resulted in her being closer to him than any other individual, even his own father.She took a deep breath, the morning ritual of waking the prince usually quite taxing. He never seemed to want to wake up without some sort of struggle. It was always amazing he could sleep this long, however.
Mayleena could hear a faint creak of a door opening on the other end of the west wing. It could be anyone she thought. But she had a sneaking suspicion it wasn’t.
Quickly, she opened the door and ran to the prince’s bed. He was still sound asleep but she shook him and he jolted upright.“Your Highness, you must wake up now! Someone’s coming!” The prince’s head felt of slight vertigo, still woozy from last night, but he knew that he must awaken quickly. He sprang up, his silk nightclothes sliding effortlessly across his royal sheets. The maid turned around, as she was accustomed to doing so often by now. He quickly strode to his closet and ripped out his attire for the day. He changed swiftly behind the screen.“Mayleena, I thought I told you to call me Hawkeye from now on.” He was still changing but they talked to each other from beyond the wall, as usual. He pulled a nice doublet over his wild, brown hair, not even unbuttoning it.“You Highness, it is not right for a maid and a prince to become as close as we are and I don’t think we should make it any worse than it already is.” She said this with an endearing smile, knowing that indeed they had become quite close. Hawkeye smiled as well, preparing to do something foolish but fun. He stepped out from behind the screen, clothed and respectable.“You know,” he walked up to her and placed his hands on her shoulders,” you really need to brighten up just a tad.” He kissed her on the cheek. Mayleena flushed heavily, averting her eyes from his.“Hawkeye, er, I mean you High—. ““You’re really cute when you’re embarrassed, you know that?” And with that he left, the door closing extra softly behind him.“Why do you have to be so—. “ She left it hanging, her blush subsiding. She sighed and cleaned up after her lord.
Hawkeye chuckled to himself as soon as he was sure that the door was closed. He knew that what she said was true, that they were too close, but he didn’t care; those were his exact feelings for his position in the world. A lazy, reckless, young man trapped in a prince’s body. He saw that the person coming for him earlier had been Jeremy, one of his father’s advisors and one of Hawkeye’s tutors as well.“Ah, there you are. Have you been in your room this entire morn my lord?” Jeremy smiled, his youthful face showing true. Jeremy knew that he slept this late quite often but he didn’t have any problem with it, that he displayed at least.“What am I to do today Jeremy? History lessons, fencing class?” Hawkeye returned the smile as Jeremy slowed his pace and turned around to continue down the hall beside Hawkeye.“Actually, we have something quite interesting to discuss with you today Hawk. I know you don’t normally care about what goes on but today…” He winked slyly.
Jeremy was one of the few he could count on to treat him like an actual human being, not a piece of property or a title to throw around. Granted, he didn’t do so in front of the other advisors, but he was a good friend nonetheless. They moved to the council room, Hawkeye now more or less awake. Hawkeye’s presence went unnoticed as he took his seat next to his father and Jeremy next to him.“Just recently, DeNninca amassed patrols on both our and Feylen’s borders, to the north. They have yet to move in any direction but scouts report that much of their population is armed.” This caught Hawkeye’s attention. DeNninca was a large country to their west, a river being their common border. Feylen bordered them from the north and there was ocean from east to south. However, DeNninca was known for its agriculture, not military. Then again, it did have ten times as large a population as either Feylen or Florid, their country. Jeremy stood and continued where a previous councilman had left off.“In hope of gaining allies against this numerable threat, King Margrave has offered a proposal.” Chattering began at this but Hawkeye’s father silenced them and motioned for Jeremy to continue.“You Majesty, King Margrave Mansel of Feylen has offered a wedding proposal to your son, his Highness, Lord Hawkeye to marry the princess of Feyland, her Grace, Princess Faye.”
* * *
“Surely, father, you jest. I wish to marry to a man that I love.” Faye was pacing back and forth furiously, her slender body moving as quickly as her mouth. Her hands were seemingly tearing out her long, blonde hair but she cared not. “Please, Faye, you must listen to reason.” Faye and her father Margrave were alone in the throne room. “Prince Hawkeye is of marrying age, as are you. Both Feylen and Florid are surely to benefit from a marriage such as this. And besides, he may be a very nice guy. You said so yourself, you’ve never met him.” Faye continued to pace frantically, her arms waving wildly as her father informed her.“Father, why though? Why can’t we just agree on another treaty? Why does it have to involve me?” She had stopped pacing, her eyes boring deep holes into her father’s.“My dear Faye, you know that both your mother and I have nothing but the best at heart for you. And besides all that, from what the wind has told us,” he winked,” this Hawk is actually a lot like you.”
She winced, not sure if she could stand to argue with anyone as stubborn as herself. She sighed, knowing that she could do nothing about this. Now. She bowed without another word and left the room, the door slamming behind her.“Nice display out there.” A deep voice came from behind her.“Slash, the shadows really don’t suit you. Come out and let’s talk.”“I have little interest in your frivolous talking but,” he sighed deeply,” if I must.” A tall boy emerged from the shadows, his choppy black hair and silent demeanor exiting with him. He wore a thief’s garments, clashing opposites with Faye’s bright blue dress.“Oh c’mon Slash, you know that you can relax in my presence.”“I never relax.” His eyes were a steely blue and his arms were crossed.“Oh whatever, just c’mon, I have lots of terrible news.”“I heard; have fun getting married.” Faye had gotten used to Slash’s bluntness by now.“All right, so you know. But what do you think of it?” She stopped and looked at him, her interest in his answer noticeably apparent. He neither stopped nor opened his eyes but just continued down the hallway.“Hey! Just a small answer, please?”
“You’ll do as your father says. What more is there?” More with the blunt answers, she thought.“But what do you think? Tell me more please. Is it a good idea?”“It doesn’t matter what I think; you’ll do as they say. This marriage is vital for both countries so I’d recommend not doing anything… regrettable.” He turned aside and began walking down the hall again. Faye smiled and quickened her pace to keep up. She knew he meant well, but she wasn’t going to just give up her life without a fight.
* * *
Hawkeye struggled to remain calm as they read the marriage proposal out loud. He kept a straight face throughout the meeting but he was outraged inside. He had no intention of marrying some foreign princess he neither knew nor loved. But of course, he let no one know this.
After the meeting was adjourned, Hawkeye sprinted back to his room. He found Mayleena asleep on his bed, a bundle of Hawkeye’s clothes next to her.
He smiled; she must have fallen asleep on the job, he thought. He took a moment to remove the pile of clothes from the bed and covered her with his blanket. Starting towards his closet, he stopped for a moment. He went back to her and leaned down, kissing her on the forehead.
“I told you to stop doing that.” Hawkeye jumped in surprise as Mayleena’s voice caught him off guard.
“You faker!” accused Hawkeye.
“You tramp!” accused Mayleena.
“You can’t call me that; I’m a prince!”
“You can’t kiss me like that; I’m a maid!”
“You—I—“Hawkeye whirled around, remembering the awful tragedy he had on his hands. Mayleena smiled for a moment but soon realized that something was wrong, Hawkeye’s frenzy a telltale sign.“What are you packing for?” she asked.
He was crazily shoving clothes into a bag.“You haven’t heard the terrible news? I am supposed to marry some princess from Feylen!”“Feylen? So you mean the Princess Faye?”“Yeah, her!”
Mayleena raised an eyebrow.“You aren’t-you aren’t going to run away, are you?”
He turned around and glared at her.
“No. No, I won’t allow it.” Mayleena stood in front of the door.“You can’t stop me.” He didn’t even turn around but continued to pack for his departure.“Aye, I can and I will. I’ll tell everyone about your leaving the castle; everything that you do at night and where you go and--” He stopped and whirled around, advancing on her. Should he have been any other man in that fit of despair, she would have been quite frightened.“You wouldn’t dare…” He seemed menacing.“I would. If this is what your father thinks is right, then I’m going to support it.”“Fine.” He threw his hands up and jumped face first onto his bed, “You win!”
She smirked slightly; this was not the end of the argument but just a suspension. She sighed nonetheless and left the room, a brilliantly golden hue emitting from the mixture of sun and clouds. Once more, she sighed; she wished that she had been born a princess.
* * *
Faye’s father wasted no time in making arrangements for his daughter’s wedding after his majesty had received notice that the treaty was in agreement. A single day later, a ship carrying the princess of Feylen was moving swiftly towards the kingdom of Florid. On board was her most trusted friend Slash, at her bidding, of course and an accompaniment of royal guardsmen. Besides that, there were the sailors manning the ship and helping navigate it.“So here’s the plan. You make sure the coast is clear and I’ll jump and swim to shore,” said the princess seeming quite serious; Slash just shook his head.“Do you truly believe your presence would go unnoticed long enough for you to escape? Even if you managed to jump off without anyone seeing, this river is infested with who knows what. You jump, not only will it delay the trip, and believe me, I hate boats, but you might and probably will drown.” His eyes were closed the entire time, not a hint of emotion coming through his mouth save perhaps a twinge of annoyance. He opened his eyes to see her leaning over the edge.He still thought she wouldn’t do it but he wasn’t sure now. As he walked over to the guards to tell them of the potentially dangerous situation, he heard a man on the boat scream, “Man Overboard!”Slash ran to the side, disbelief showing. A slight grin crept to his face; the princess had actually jumped. His amusement dispersed as he looked down at her madly swimming towards shore. The tide was strong but it was swimable. Probably.This was nothing like the make believe adventures that Slash had saved Faye from when they were younger. They were quite real and as Slash took off his shoes and his shirt, he realized the direness of the situation. He stood up on the deck, took a deep breath, and dove.The crewmen threw a rope to him and, after reaching the surface, he grabbed it and saw to the princess, still swimming strongly.“Faye. Stop this and come back to the ship.” He said this loudly and was sure that if she wanted to, she could have heard it. Slash, being much stronger and a particularly good swimmer, caught up with her and wrapped his arm around her. She struggled but he held her, the rope going taut as they were drug back.Suddenly, Slash’s head snapped below the surface of the water. He drew a dagger, not knowing how much help it would be. He spun around wildly, slashing at what appeared to be some sort of tentacle wrapped around his ankle in the blackness. Faye was now tired, despite her obvious determination and barely managed to hang onto the rope. She searched frantically for Slash, wishing he would remerge soon.Snap! Twisting claws wrapped around Slash’s wrist and drug him under farther, his grasp of the knife slowly loosening. The underwater world was deeper than he had believed it could be. He caught sight of the beast, its lashing claws and tentacles connected to it. Slash cut at the tentacle but it was like cutting at metal. He dropped his dagger and concentrated on swimming up and away from its grasp. Faye held onto the end of the rope and was pulled aboard by the crew. “What were you thinking princess? You could have drowned!” Faye coughed vigorously and she sat up uneasily on deck.“Where… Slash…” She had trouble talking as she breathed heavily.“He disappeared under the waves after reaching you. Please, relax. It was because of him we were able to save you.”“No, he… he has to be…” Her head felt heavy as it dropped to the deck and her mind blackened.
“Idiot…” Faye awoke to see Slash sitting in a chair in the corner, eyes closed as always. “I’m hoping that now you’ll have enough sense to stay on board.” He spoke this through somewhat gritted teeth; Faye saw that his left ankle and wrist were bound in white, thoroughly bloodstained cloths.“I’m glad to see you’re all right too,” she said snidely. “And I would’ve made it if you hadn’t stopped me.”“I don’t think so. I barely got away from whatever dragged me under and if it had chosen you instead, you wouldn’t be here. But of course, thanks to you, I had to find that out the hard way.” He stood up, no pain even appearing as he put his weight equally on both feet. He bowed, as if to leave.“Slash, a moment, please.” Slash stood back up, his eyes open but looking down. He held no expression.“What? If you’re going to complain about your marriage-to-be, forget it.”
“I—I just wanted to say… Thanks. If you weren’t there, I would’ve died.” She was near tears but Slash could only grimace.“We covered this a moment ago. Is that all?” He bowed once more and walked towards the door. He stopped. “Stay in bed.”
He left silently and Faye smiled weakly. Although he seemed quite callous, Faye knew he cared about her. He always had cared, even when they were still young. Perhaps Hawkeye would be like that, she thought. No, no one could be better than her Slash.
* * *
On the morning of the princess’s arrival, Hawkeye awoke much earlier than was usual for the prince. It was essential to find a way to escape quickly! He was sure Mayleena would be a problem but he had to make a break for it; if problems arose, then so be it.He chose his clothes carefully. Although he had no intention of being caught, he chose clothes that he would wear to meet the princess but also loose and stealthy enough to avoid getting caught. He just didn’t have a way to get past his maid. Oh well, he thought. I’ll just wing it.“What are you doing up!? You usually don’t wake up for at least a few more hours.” Mayleena was in shock as he emerged from his room; her shock didn’t last long, however.“Ah, I couldn’t sleep. I’m supposed to meet the princess anyway and I thought it rude to show up late.”“You’re right, it would be. So why do you intend to run off so soon? Wouldn’t it be more polite to at least meet her, speaking of etiquette?” Man, she knew him too well, he thought.“What? Oh, no, I wouldn’t dream of running!”“Give me one reason why I shouldn’t call for the guards right now. I know you plan to run and I’m sure they wouldn’t mind escorting their dear prince to his appointment with his future wife.” Her voice had a scary edge to it and Hawkeye decided he had best drop his ruse.“Ah, you have caught me I suppose. However, I do intend to escape!” He grinned defiantly.“I’ll make sure you attend.” Mayleena put her hands on her sides and looked him square in the eyes. He thought for a moment. New plan.“Mm, okay, how about you come with me? We’ll run away together and neither of us will have to listen to anybody.” For a moment, all was calm inside Hawkeye’s maid. Mayleena’s heart wrenched. Of all the questions he could have asked, he asked that one, she thought. She fought back the unexpected tears but was unsuccessful as her composure was lost completely. She turned from him, her vision flooded, and dashed down the hall, crying audibly.Hawkeye stood there for a moment, dumbstruck. He had not expected anything like that. After a moment however he cracked a smile; the coast was clear now. He snuck down the hallway, creeping ever so softly.
* * *
A mass of guardsmen created ranks around the princess’s miniature body, Slash somewhere in the vicinity. He never walked around in public, but she could have him next to her in a matter of seconds. They strode off the boat, a crowd of most of the people in the kingdom there to receive her and view their prince’s fiancé. To Faye’s relief, a prince was not among them. She smiled, remembering that Hawkeye was supposed to be a lot like her. Perhaps he had fled, as she had attempted to do.They marched to the palace in the center of the city. Faye began to think of what this prince would be like. Perhaps he would be respectfully awaiting her in the palace. Or perhaps he would be there in his pajamas, just waking up. Faye grinned, wondering if he would even be there at all.The door was thrown open to a large throne room and Faye was announced. Inside, Hawkeye’s father sat atop the throne in the middle. However, the lesser throne next to it, the prince’s throne, was devoid of any said prince. She smiled, realizing now that this was where he was supposed to meet her. They approached the throne, Faye curtsying gracefully.“Greetings Princess Faye of Feylen. I am in disappointment to announce that my son, Prince Hawkeye, is nowhere to be found. However, once we find him, we will— He was cut off as the door to the throne room was thrown open and Hawkeye was half pushed, half thrown in. Behind him stood Slash, his eyes closed and his arms crossed.“He was fleeing. This is the prince, right?” Hawkeye picked himself up and brushed himself off. He had been caught. How, though, he didn’t know. He had been very successful in his flight until this guy had come out of seemingly no where. His strength was unbelievable considering his lankiness but Hawkeye was easily forced into submission and led back to the throne room where he had been more or less tossed.“May I present my son, Prince Hawkeye,” Hawkeye’s father picked up without missing a beat, chuckling slightly when he said it; he seemed to be more amused than angry. Hawkeye waved but realized that might be just a bit too casual and bowed instead. He saw the princess, almost a full foot shorter than he was, but she was actually quite beautiful. He walked over to her and outstretched his hand.“Hello. You must be the princess. Nice to meet you.” He smiled as he stood in front of her.“Um, hi. You’re Hawkeye, right?” She forgot her manners momentarily and bumbled slightly. She raged on the inside; his hair was messy. His clothes were scuffed and dirty. He was obviously a scoundrel. She was not going to marry someone so unclean and improper.Talking commenced but Hawkeye and Faye had no say in this; they just retreated to a far wall, away from the politics. This wasn’t the way things were done as they both knew; neither cared. They both delighted in their mutual disagreement of the situation and it helped in getting their minds off the actual marriage; they cared little for etiquette.“Prince Hawkeye and Princess Faye shall be wed tomorrow at midday.” The final decision was announced loud enough to blanch both the faces of Hawkeye and Faye. With a few parting words, they broke apart. Faye turned and walked east, instantly accompanied by Hawkeye’s assailant Slash and he went west to his room.
* * *
“Well, it definitely went better than I had expected. She was entertaining to say the least but quite beautiful.” Hawk had described his encounter since he had gotten back and every time Faye’s name had cropped up in his words, Mayleena felt small pangs of jealousy. She chose to ignore them.“You know,” interjected Hawk into his own story,” you need someone too. Next chance I get, I’m going match-making for you.“That’s alright. I really don’t feel like I could handle anyone like that.”“Really? But after I am married, who will kiss you?” He kissed her swiftly on the forehead, her height allowing this easily.“Hawkeye, stop it! You can’t just keep doing this. You’re a prince.”“Maybe but even after I’m married, I’ll still love you.” Mayleena could feel sharp stabs, her heart crying to her in pain. She wanted so to look up into his eyes, run to him, to wrap her arms around him and bury her face in his chest. But she kept her eyes down; it was not her place. He was a prince and betrothed nonetheless. Even so, rationality couldn’t keep from blurting those words that she wanted to ask more than anything.“If—if you could… would you marry me?” She kept her gaze down while saying this, her cheeks slightly flushed. She could feel her heart beating violently in her chest. Hawkeye looked at her with a look of pure surprise but faced her, a calm coming over him. He stepped towards her, placing her soft hands in his.“You speak so often of our placement in this world, how you are but a maid and I a prince. What brings this question out all of a sudden?” He bowed his head, so as not to let her see his own excitement.“Earlier, you mentioned running away with me. If I had said yes right then—.” She left it hanging, her heartbeat skyrocketing.“We would be in a far distant country by now,” Hawkeye answered wistfully, his voice quiet. “Would you now?” She couldn’t help herself; the words just came out. Mayleena looked into his eyes as her words lifted his head in astonishment. Hawkeye could feel his own pulse heighten and he smiled dreamily.
“Yes, of course.” He didn’t care what this might result in. He loved her. She looked down, reality smacking her in the face and deadening her ecstasy. Hawkeye changed that effortlessly. He lifted her face, placing his gentle fingertips upon her cheek. He kissed her, not on the forehead but on the lips. She knew it wasn’t acceptable but she felt so alive. The thing she had dreamt of for her whole life, her single most desired wish, coming true in that moment.
“Ahem, Hawk,” Jeremy was standing in the doorway. Hawkeye and Mayleena both hated him this moment, but they could do little but throw themselves away from each other.“Um, yes, what, uh, did you need something Jeremy?” said Hawkeye, stammering slightly.“Dinner has been served your Highness.” Jeremy left with a sly look and Hawkeye shared a glance with Mayleena, both of them blushing slightly. They brushed hands for a moment, Hawkeye turning to leave. She smiled, having gotten to share a kiss with the man she loved. I got what I’ve wanted for so long, she thought. But what will happen the next time we’re alone. She wasn’t sure if she wanted to just be his maid anymore.
* * *
After parting with Hawkeye, Faye had been led to a large bedroom. This will be my room until my voyage home- she halted in that though. Would he be going home if she was wed?! She shook off the shock and looked around. Slash stood in the corner, leaned against it with, wouldn’t you know it, his eyes closed.
“So, what should we do now?” She knew Slash was listening intently.“We wait,” answered Slash with scarcely more than a whisper.“I don’t think Prince Hawkeye was all that impressive. Next time try not to dirty them up so bad, okay?” Faye swore she saw something of a smirk on Slash’s face but the shadows of the corner could have been playing tricks.“Don’t scare them away and I won’t have to.” Faye put on a playfully aghast look and Slash stood upright, opening his eyes. “I’m going to go for a walk,” he said suddenly. “When dinner comes, be on your best behavior. Don’t… embarrass yourself.” He walked towards the door to leave.
“Do I ever embarrass myself?”
“I suppose not; you’re shameless.” He left after his answer.
“I’m... shameless? What- Slash, you get back here right now!” She stood up, opening the door. But he was already gone.“You Grace, your presence is requested in the dining hall.” Faye jumped as a man was suddenly next to her. She nodded to him, returning to her room.
“Dinner’s pretty early here, huh?” she asked. No answer. “Oh, right. A walk…” She had forgotten Slash had left; she was hardly ever unaccompanied by him.Slash walked down the hallway in a grand manner. He hated this doublet the princess had forced him to wear; too much bright blue to accent his eyes and not enough pure black. He had not the slightest clue as to where he was headed but he was uneasy and he knew he couldn’t be. Faye depended on him to be fearless and sure, to more or less be her crutch, as he saw it. But he didn’t mind. It gave him something to do, it was entertainment, many reasons he told himself. And so he had taken a walk to calm his nerves.
He had walked down numerous hallways, calmer now. Upon reaching a certain hallway, he saw the prince leaving his room. He silently hid behind a cupboard until Hawkeye had left down the opposite hallway Slash had traversed. His curiosity piqued, he opened the door to the prince’s room.“Who—“a young maid started.
“I’m sorry; I’m lost,” Slash answered fluently. However, instead of backing away, he continued into the room.“Oh, um, are you here with someone?” She was shocked that anyone would just barge into a room like this.“Yes. You wouldn’t happen to be Hawkeye’s maid, would you?” He crossed his arms as he walked around Hawkeye’s room.“What? Who are you?”“My name is Slash. If I am correct, we are the same. You are Hawkeye’s attendant and I, Faye’s.”“Then yes, I am Hawkeye’s maid. Um, if you go back out to the hall, I can direct you-” “Then perhaps you can tell me something. Before I apprehended him this morning, why was he trying to escape so ardently?”“He just didn’t-doesn’t want to be married to your princess.”“He and Faye certainly are alike then. She tried to escape as well.”She could only nod.“How close are you to him then? Does he have multiple maids or-“
“No, I am his only one. And we’ve known each other since we were young. My parents served his.”
“I see. So then, did my liege’s arrival interrupt your romance?” He stood facing away from Mayleena, his arms crossed.
“What? How-what are you talking about?!” Her tone confirmed Slash’s assumptions.“You love him, right?”“I have no idea what you are talking about,” Mayleena responded, her face flushed red. He uncrossed his arms and walked towards the door.“If you know what’s good for Hawkeye and both of our kingdoms, you won’t.” He left noiselessly. She shook her head in disbelief. Even though she knew those words to be true, it was already too late. She could never stop loving him.
* * *
Hawkeye was relieved to find that they had yet to begin the feast. He was the last there, although this surprised no one. Even Faye was sitting at the table; both seats next to her were empty. He took a seat next to her, the left one, in order to be next to his father. He mused that the right seat would be for her friend, the one that had “attacked” him earlier. He shrugged; his stomach was empty and his eyes darted for any food.Dinner was served; Faye and Hawkeye engaged in conversation as was expected.“I’ve been meaning to try these delicacies,” Faye reached for some sort of meat and placed it on her plate. Hawkeye smiled a bit.“Perhaps but they get old after you’ve had them every day your whole life.” He picked up a small loaf of bread and took a bite. “Did you find your room to your liking?”“Hmm? Oh, it was elegant, I suppose,” she answered.
Hawkeye nodded and looked off into the distance of the room.
“I’m glad. It was my mother’s.”
“Oh, I’m sorry.” She felt bad now; had she known whose room it had been, she would have paid it it’s due respect.
“No, it’s fine,” he smiled,” I never really knew her that well.” Doors opened silently and Slash entered, his impressive demeanor changing the mood drastically. Faye turned to him as he sat next to her and Hawkeye focused on choking down his food. He always had felt awkward eating in front of certain people for some reason, like he was going to get some on his face or drop some on his lap and they would laugh. Slash and Faye conversed for awhile before Hawkeye was spoken to again.“So,” Faye started,” who is this maid I am hearing about?” Hawkeye gagged on his food. He wondered if Jeremy had told her, but it seemed far more likely that Slash had, since she just now thought to ask him about Mayleena. But then, how did he know her?“Well, she’s been my maid for, uh, a little while and we’ve been friends as well.” That was a lie. Mayleena had been his maid ever since her mother had died and his friend for just as long.“Just friends?” Hawkeye gulped but kept his cool.“I’m sure that she loves me but I’m a prince, as she would say. However, if this union of our countries hadn’t happened when it did,” he stopped to sigh,” I’m sure that something more would have happened.”“You are a prince and yet you feel the same way for her, yes?”“Hmm. Yes, I suppose I love her but… I guess I’m betrothed now so it won’t matter. What about you? Do you feel love for anyone that this wedlock interrupted?” Hawkeye did his best to take the spotlight off of him.“A long time ago, I loved someone. I confessed my love to him but he decided it would be wrong for me to feel that way, since he felt I wasn’t for him.” She sighed. “I still love him but he permits me to do so no more than as a brother as he loves me as a sister. However, I would guess that it isn’t the way it is for you right?” Hawkeye looked down, not sure if he could bring himself to answer that. He loved Mayleena, but he was betrothed now. And he knew that it wouldn’t work.“No, it’s… it’s the same. I love her as a sister.” It pained him to say this, perhaps because it was a lie or maybe because he realized that his love for Mayleena would have to end. “I don’t think that Mayleena will ever be able to forget about me though.”“You haven’t, well, you know—.” She left it hanging.“We’ve kissed. That’s all.”“Oh,” she responded. Silence from both of them.“Did you try to run before this,” said Hawkeye, breaking the silence.“Run might not be my choice word. Swim would be closer but yes, I did try to escape.”Dinner continued as planned, and quite a party it was, but Hawkeye felt sick. After that initial conversation with Faye, he wasn’t sure if he could even hold himself together. He was sure that Faye understood this because she left him alone for her own conversation with that black mongrel of hers.Hawkeye stood up and said his goodbyes to Faye for the night. She nodded, still eating and enjoying herself. He sighed and exited the dining hall, the party still roaring without him. He walked to his room, not sure if Mayleena would be there to greet him.He opened his door and found her in his bed, fast asleep. His room was spotless as always, not a sock out of place or a speck of dust in sight. He could only stare at her, her face perfect in every way, her breathing in perfect pattern. He left her however, and walked to another room further down the hall. He climbed into the significantly smaller bed and attempted to sleep.The night was misery. Over and over, he tossed. Nothing could sate his torturous dreams and send him to sleep; all he could do was try not to think about tomorrow. When morning finally did come, he found that he was still very tired.He wanted more than anything to clear his mind but there was no way it was going to happen. Out his window, he could see men finishing the site at which he was going to be married. It was on the beach right to the east of the castle. He could only feel soberness as he passed each window, the same loathed location in each one’s view. And without breakfast or any food at all, he took a lonely walk around the castle grounds.
“So this is it then?” asked Mayleena calmly. She stood on the other side of the divider, Hawkeye on the other side changing. So often had this been a normal feat but now they treasured these last moments they spent together.
“I can’t run now. I’ll just have to live with it.” Hawkeye stepped out, clothed in rich garments, suited for a princely groom.
“You’ve given up?” Mayleena’s eyes bore holes into Hawkeye’s and even now she could feel her vision blurring from her tears.
“I’m sorry but I can’t do anything else. This marriage… everyone needs it for our countries to survive… for the people of this country to live.” He walked towards her, taking his steps slowly. “And to protect you too.” He put his arms around her neck.
“Hawkeye—I.”
“I don’t want to do this either. I don’t want to be a prince but… I am one. And as you always say May… you’re just my maid.”
Their conversation still played in his head even as he strode along a pathway towards the castle courtyard. He did not want to be royalty anymore, as he had felt since he was born. And though he now had a different reason to want to be free, a prince he was still, as he would be even after his death.
He entered the courtyard outside the throne room to find an escort awaiting to accompany him down to the beach. Among the many soldiers and steeds they sat upon, Jeremy sat upon one as well. He dismounted and met Hawkeye a small distance from the soldiers. He looked around as he approached him.
“Hawk…” Jeremy put his arm around him and spoke into his ear,” when you get on top of your horse, break off west. I’ve already told my men to let you flee.” Jeremy gave him a wink and for a moment, Hawkeye’s heart lifted; he looked at Jeremy with such admiration. But he shook his head.
“Jeremy, thank you. I appreciate this so much. But no…” He looked away, smiling slightly.” So much depends on this that if I run away, I would be dooming so many. Including…” Hawkeye closed his eyes and looked down.
“Hawk… you’ve certainly grown up. But I understand.” He smiled and spoke quietly. “So it’s true then. The prince really did fall in love with the maid, as she did for him. Formalities, who needs ‘em?” He returned to his steed, as Hawkeye reached his. They set off slowly for the beach, fear and anguish once more settling in on Hawkeye’s heart.
* * *
The ceremony began once everyone was present; Hawkeye stood on the stage, his nerves raging against his motionless body. However, despite his distraught mind and heart, he stayed. He could no more run away now than he could fly.Defiance and sorrow, regret and madness; these thoughts swam in his head angrily until he saw her. She walked down the aisle, her beautifully tailored dress as white as snow; the slight breeze made her veil shift enough to allow Hawkeye to glimpse his bride-to-be’s face. His mind and heart settled a bit and he smiled somewhat. He caught himself before he felt any real happiness; I want Mayleena underneath that veil he thought. He clenched his fists slightly; always before had he had a back route out of things but now it seemed all too real.
In the distance, trumpets sounded, but Hawkeye ignored them. Wedding trumpets perhaps? he thought to himself. But as others, including the princess, looked at the fast approaching horsemen, he too turned to gaze upon them.
A leader of the cavalry dismounted quickly and bowed in front of Jeremy, as he met him. Hawkeye couldn’t make out any words but when Jeremy turned to face Hawkeye and the others, he could tell by Jeremy’s bewildered expression that something was up. He wildly charged the prince, moving both of them out of the way.
“Excuse me ladies and gentlemen, there has been a change of plans. Now, I know I speak for everyone here when I say that we would all love to see these two lovely people wed and joined forever in holy matrimony.”
Hawkeye was utterly incredulous; Why was Jeremy behaving in this manner?
“However, I have just been given some rather interesting news.” He glimpsed at Hawkeye and winked, as her had done earlier. Or a bit more manically. “This wedding was to be held to unite the countries of Feylen and Floridia against the hordes of DeNninca. However, I was just informed that the packs that were camped there have withdrawn their forces from the borders!”
Hawkeye stared blankly at Jeremy. He felt his heart racing, his mind singing joyously. Jeremy smiled and as chattering began amongst the crowd, he approached Hawkeye.
“It seems that indeed formalities have their place after all.” He put his hand on Hawkeye’s shoulder and whispered into his ear. “We’d best not let all of this go to waste though, right?”
* * *
Mayleena was on the prince’s bed, face down and audibly crying. Hawkeye went to her and placed his hand on her shoulder. She turned around and a look of pure surprise came over her, followed by a look of pure disgust.“So, you’re married now, aren’t you?” Her eyes were visibly wet with tears, her face red as though she had been crying since he had left her that morning “Why aren’t you with your wife?”“The marriage has been called off.” He kept a completely straight face. “As for the wife thing…” Hawkeye backed away from her slowly and he knelt in front of her. Her red face changed instantly to a pale blush.“May, we’ve known each other our whole lives. Throughout all of it, you’ve been at my side; through all the jokes and the occasional escape. And not once did you ever ask for my heart.“ Hawkeye smiled even as he kept her eyes locked with hers. “I know of all the pain you’ve been through. You would always say that I am the prince, that you are the maid, that we are two different types of people. Now, I offer this: take my hand Mayleena, and be, for now and always, my princess.
“Hawkeye—I—.” She was completely speechless as he knelt there before her. She covered her face with her hands and took a deep breath; when she removed them, a healthy smiled appeared.“Hawkeye, my prince, I accept your proposal and would love with all my heart to be your princess.”
* * *
Faye looked next to her, Slash for once seated in public. They sat in the audience looking on the soon to be new couple. She smiled and took his hands in hers; his eyes opened.“So, what did you think of it?” she asked.“They’ll be fine together. What else is there to say?”“Yes, I hope so. However, do you remember back when you said that you would do anything for me?”“I can see where this is going…” muttered Slash.“Then why can’t you just accept… or decline, I suppose.” She bit her lip playfully.“And ruin your fun of asking it?” he paused. “Never.”“Fine then.” She got down on one knee, grinning. “Slash, will you be my prince?” For once, Faye could have sworn she saw a slight smile touch his face, perhaps even a small blush. But if it was ever there, it was gone just as quickly.“Will it make you happy if I say yes?” Faye smiled bigger and nodded. “I don’t think so, but we’ll see.” He stood up from his seat, pulling Faye up with him. “I’m not one for big ceremonies like those two.“However,” he looked, for the first time ever, or as Faye could remember, into her eyes, “I do love you.” And with that he crossed his arms, and walked away from her. Faye wasn’t sure if she should be happy or sad but for both feelings, a tear was present in her eyes.“He said ‘We’ll see’. Good odds,” she said smiling to no one in particular.

Starshine Academy

Part 1
Perhaps coming to this school wasn't such a hot idea, I thought. Today had been my first day at this academy and I had had an interesting day to say the least. The teachers were nice but the students were... something else. Starshine academy was an all-girl school way off on an island in the Carribean. It was noted for it's excellence in academics, of course, but it had a secret about it that no brochure or pamphlet about the place would say. In class, Everything functioned normally. But in the halls, the girls all looked at me with such contempt, it seemed I was truly hated. But that was before I found out the secret of this school. Because this school was an all girl school, there were obviously no boys.
However, just because there was a lack of male testosterone didn't mean there was a lack of love. It seemed that at this school coupling with another girl was quite natural. Then again, it really was just how far the couple took it. Some acted just like friends and there was nothing odd about it except that they were referred to as girlfriends. However, there were also couples that went the whole mile and were seen, or at least in my eyes, as unnatural. And to top off all the weirdness, I had gotten paired herself. By my own choosing. I grimaced at what had happened today and how I had been so powerless as to stop it...
I had finished with my classes and was going to go to the courtyard to relax. As I exited the building, the gentle breeze of Carribean air and summer heat caressed my face. And instantly my eyes caught hold of a beautiful blonde haired girl of somewhere around my own height and age. Of course, this was before I knew the "rules" of the school, otherwise I would have never approached her.
“Hello, I'm Destiny, I said, what's your name?”
“Hiya Destiny. I'm Vanessa. Pleased to meet you. Are you new?”
She seemed almost anxious at the time.
“Yes, I am. Is it obvious?”
“Well, you aren't with anyone so, I dunno…”
What, not with anyone? Oh, I'm not with any friends, I thought.
“Yeah, well, I haven't met anyone yet so I haven't had a chance to make any friends yet.
“Oh, I see. Hmm, wanna be mine?”
She said this nicely but she was blushing quite a bit. I should have caught it at that but I didn't.
“Sure, absolutely.”
“Great.”
She smiled big and gave me a hug. A long one. And if I remember right, I think I hugged her back. You know, just as a friend.
Right?
“So, what kinda stuff do you like to do?”
Vanessa asked all of this stuff like she was ecstatic. I guess I kind of was as well, how nice it was to finally have a friend.
“Well, I enjoy doing... Stuff. I dunno, I read, write, draw, sleep. Just whatever.”
“Oh, that's cool. I like to sleep too.”
She grinned and we both knew how funny we sounded.
“So, anything about this school I should know?”
“Any evil teachers or something?” Her eyes widened for a moment.
“Wait, you mean you don't know, like... Anything?” I shook my head.
“Is there something I should know? She laughed nervously and then stood up, pulling me with her.
“Come with me, I have something to show you.” I shrugged and went with her. We climbed some stairs and if I remember right, this was her dormitory.
“What are we doing?” I was nervous at this point. She led me into a room and my heart thumped as I looked around. This was definitely a girl's dormitory, as there were about twenty girls in it. But they were all... kissing...
I flipped out as I ran back down the stairs, Vanessa chasing me all the way.
“What was that?” I yelled it quite loud.
“That... that's what this school is like…” I looked at her for a moment and realized that she wanted to be with me.
“No. I am not like that!” I realized I was shaking
“Yes, I know Destiny. Not everyone is like that. Many of us are just friends. But everyone here has a pair.” I shook my head.
“But why? Why does everyone have one?”
“No one knows Destiny, that's just how it is.” I sighed, my anger subsiding.
“So, what about you Vanessa?” I saw she was saddened and I felt like cheering her up.
“Well, I'm not like like that but I do like the pairing system, I guess… I mean, with no boys and no outside contacts, what else is there for fun?”
“Yeah, I suppose... So, are we... you know...?” I looked her in the eyes. Those great big green eyes.
“Yes, I suppose. Just no... none of that stuff. Okay?” She nodded.
“Absolutely. But I still hug.” And that's what she did.
So, I suppose it wasn't all bad but, well, it definitly wasn't enjoyable. That was my first day. How would my second and third and tenth be? I rolled over, my own blonde hair rolling with me. Maybe being with her wouldn't be so bad... Well, I guess I'll just see tomorrow. I closed my eyes for but a moment it seemed. I awoke to see Vanessa face to face with me.
“Wake up sleepyhead!”
“Waaah!” I fell out of bed.
“Hmm, I suppose that's one way of doing it.” I pulled my self up and rubbed my eyes. “I picked out your clothes for today. They match mine!”
I looked at her outfit. A pink, lowcut shirt. Bleah... A pink miniskirt that exposed her white panties. Super Bleah... Long leg warmers that traveled from her white shoes to her mid thighs. Not exactly ugly but...
“I'm supposed to wear that...?” (EXACT SAME OUTFIT...)
“Well, yeah. Is that alright...?” I sighed and figured if I was going to go to school here, I might as well lose myself in it.
“Whatever. Just let me change.” She nodded but didn't move. “Um, privacy...?” She looked funnily at me.
“You are aware this is a dorm, right? There is no privacy.” Once more, I sighed and just shook it off... If I was going to be A: a girlfriend and B: a part of this school, I might as well relax...
If that was possible...
I was sure that Vanessa would classify this as fortunate but I thought it was bad that it was Saturday and that we had no classes. All I really remembered was how uncomfortable I felt walking around with her, hand in hand.
“Do we really have to do this?”
“No, of course not. But it's fun…” She laughed but I groaned. “Oh com'n Destiny, this is a blast! I've never had a girlfriend and I've wanted one for so long.”
“Oh, yeah, and that makes everything so important to me…” She looked at me and saw I was seriously nervous. She let go of my hand and pulled me into another one of those long, loving hugs.
I don't know why but my heart decided to bang against my rib cage as she whispered in my ear.
“I know that you aren't actually thrilled with this whole couple thing but, well, if you give it a little bit of a chance, I'm sure you'll see it's just... Different. Not bad, just different. Okay?” She let go of me and sighed. I smiled a bit and nodded. This time, I was the one who reached for her hand.
The day went normal. I actually realized that every other girl was exactly like that: hand-in-hand. Or, at least the ones that weren't, well, you know...
“Why don't they get a room?” I asked this after I had been fed up with seeing it around every corner we walked.
“Well, not everyone is like you.”
“Obviously; they're all sick and wrong.” I looked at her face to see if she'd laugh with me but she looked almost sad. I stopped and looked her in the face. “Besides being able to claim that you have one, why did you want to have a girlfriend? Don't say that you wanted... to be like them... did you?”
She averted her eyes from mine and pulled me along as we walked. By now we were exploring the far reaches of the beach and there were still many girls around. A true guy's paradise, I realized. Maybe that's why there was the rule of the pure female coupling. Nothing bad could happen here. Well, except for the break-ups, the message it was sending, and then the other... stuff...
“I... I guess I just want someone to be with.... Back at home, nearly a month ago, my mother and father would fight continuously... They would claim they hated each other and... me too... And then... my brother... He…” I looked at her. Tears welled in her eyes. I quickly puts my arms around her and let her cry softly on my shoulder.
“It's alright. You have someone who cares about you now.”
Crap, what did I just say?
I care for her?
Yes, as a friend.
That's right...
“Thanks Destiny. I'm... thankful…”
Anything that has resulted from now on is probably my fault in not stopping what happened next. She lifted her head and kissed me on the cheek. I didn't even flinch really but I was aware at how not far it was from my mouth. But she re-lowered her head and continued to cry. I was already in way too deep.
I had given up feeling unnatural and just decided to have fun. We continued to walk around the campus, the beach, the school, and hand in hand we were. To my dismay, I might add, but for Vanessa's sake, I acted cool. Nearing dinner time, Vanessa led me to the dining hall, a huge room with like a hundred tables or more. And, they were all filled with food.
“So, where do we, um, sit?” I was hungry but a little anxious to make sure we didn't sit with anyone that was, um, how to put it... “Overly enthusiastic about being a couple.”
How's that?
“Where do you want to sit?” I looked around and saw that there were many people in here already...
“Did you want to sit alone, er, well, like, with no one?” I knew what she meant; she wanted to make sure that I was comfortable. I nodded and we went to go get a tray.
“So, how good is the food?” It smelled good enough and looked good enough and...
“It's spectacular.” I smiled; I loved food. I filled my tray and waited for Vanessa.
“Hey,“ a voice yelled out from behind us,” come sit over here.” I turned and saw two girls sitting at a table. Crap! Just what I didn't want... Oh well; Vanessa and I went over and sat down beside them... Only, wait a second... One of them was a guy!!!
“Whoa, hey, you're a--”
“Hey, hey, hey, calm. No need to broadcast it to everyone…” He was wearing quite a bit of makeup, obvious to Destiny's eyes, and a skirt; nothing like Destiny's and Vanessa's but not quite long enough to cover his knees. I leaned in and whispered quietly
“Why are you here? You're a guy…”
“I'm here to protect young ladies from themselves.“ I stared at him
“He tries to keep girls from becoming couples,“ Vanessa said.
“Oh, I see.” So there was some guys here. I suddenly felt like latching onto him for dear life, but that would have blown his cover.
“So, you two together?” He looked almost sad as he asked this and I kinda felt bad for him.
“Yep.” Of course, Vanessa just had to answer.
“Yeah, I guess we are…” I don't know why but it sounded like I was ashamed for admitting it. Was I? Should I have been? He put his head down on the table and acted like he was crying. He then threw his head up and acted dramatic
“Another beautiful damsel, lost to the sea of Sapphism. Alas, I was but too late…”
I think I laughed, although I didn't know exactly what he meant. Vanessa kind of frowned as well as the girl Vaan was with.
“Oh, where are my manners? This is my friend, Melody.” I nodded towards her. “Oh, don't expect her to say hello; she's a mute.” I didn't mean to but I grimaced slightly; I felt bad afterwards. “Hey, it's alright. She's cool.”
“Well, I'm hungry, so I'm gonna eat.” Vanessa dug in, mashed potatoes seemingly disappearing in an instant. I began to eat as well, though I found myself watching Vanessa eat as well. I'm her girlfriend, sue me...
“So, how long have you been going to this school and trying to, um, rescue girls?” asked Vanessa.
“Well, I come here periodically so as to not get noticed. And so far, I haven't gotten caught yet.” I yawned tiredly but smiled. Apparently today had been long with the walking and the emotional stuff. “Tired much?” he asked. I nodded and stood up.
“I think I'll go turn in. Today was fun but it was tiring.” Vanessa stood up too.
“I understand. Let's go to bed.” I think I winced at *let's*.
“Alright see you, um... I realized that through all of this, I didn't know his name.
“Ah, my manners seem to be a little lax as of late... He stood and took my hand and then bowed. “I am Vaan Dexter the third. At your service.” He kissed my hand and shivers seemed to climb up my spine.
“Oh, um, nice to meet you Vaan. Well, good night Melody... Vaan…” I turned around and we began our trek to the dorms.
“So, how were your first days? I smiled, I think.
“They were... interesting, to say the least. And how were your last few days?” She definitely smiled.
“Hmm, well…” She faced me and seemed almost to hop. “I gots a girlfriend! I gots a girlfriend!”
She did it again, rather because I got distracted or because she was way too excited. She dove in and got another kiss on the cheek. I don't know why but I didn't say anything. I just kind of felt shocked but shook it off. I mean, I disapproved of it…
Didn't I?
Part 2
[Night time]
I'm alseep.
Dead asleep. And then suddenly awakened.
“Destiny…” A quiet whisper
“Mm?”
“Destiny?” A little louder. I sat up quickly and saw that there was a figure next to my bed. I clicked on my lights and saw that it was, who would have guessed it, the little girl who would never leave me alone.
“Yawn, what do you want Vanessa; it's really early?”
“Yeah, 2 O'clock to be exact. C'mon, let's go.” I gave her a puzzled look.
“Where? She grabbed my hand and more or less yanked me out of bed.
“We gotta go somewhere.” I yanked my hand back but stood up.
“Does this place happen to have pillows and a blanket 'cause I'm really tired. She shook her head and crept to the door. I hit my lights and followed her, another yawn.
We walked around in the school for awhile, but Vanessa seemed to know exactly where she was going. I followed her sleepy-eyed and didn't ask a single question of where we were going. I should have asked, I realized later. We found a way outside and began a small walk to the beach. She stopped however and faced me.
“Hold your gut.” We crossed a hill and I saw what she meant; it seemed like everywhere you looked, there was a couple sitting and watching the ocean. Many were a little bit more expressive, if you catch my meaning...
I think, and I could be wrong, but I didn’t seem to mind as I walked along the beach. Maybe because I had seen it all day or, well, who knows...
“We have to cross this section of the beach to get to where we're going.
“And that is...?”
“You'll see; just relax.”
I shrugged and tried to focus on her, rather than the girls surrounding us.
“Okay, we're here…” She let me see, as she had covered my eyes moments ago. I looked straight forward and looking me back was the largest and most beautiful moon I had ever seen. And, there was no one around to see it either. “I found this place on the first night I was here and it seems so one else knows about it. It's probably cause it's only here once every month or something.”
That would make sense, I thought. She nodded to me and sat down. I joined her.
“So, was it worth me waking you up? Vanessa looked at me and grinned. I smiled as well and nodded. She looked at the moon and sighed; a big and loud one. “Isn't it just so beautiful...?”
“I guess…” She looked at me and laughed. I think I laughed back but not knowing why.
“What's so funny?” She looked back at the moon.
“Yeah, I suppose it's beautiful…” She put her head on my shoulder and I put my head on hers. “But not as beautiful as you.” I smiled, although I felt kind of embarrassed.
“Who said you could call me beautiful?” I laughed inside and smiled.
“Can I?”
“Sure…” I was tired, obviously. I lifted my head and laid down on the beach. My eyes closed for but a second and I was asleep.
Okay, you may want to imitate this exactly so that you know where everything is:
My right arm: Straight out on the ground.
Her head: On it, facing me, nearly touching my face.
Her/my body: way way too close, our breasts are almost touching
Her right arm: Over me.
My left arm: Over her...
And finally, Her right leg: over me
Oh wait, there's more... unfortunately...
My right leg: ...between her...legs...
And it took me a few seconds to realize this. Another problem.
A big one.
I didn’t move. She was sleeping so soundly and-and...
I just didn't move.
Don't ask why not. No, go ahead, ask. I just won't have an answer.
I laid there and breathed the air she breathed. I watched people run past us, paying us no mind. And I began to realize that maybe...
No, it was still...
Inside, my head was shouting warnings, “don't let it be me…”
My heart... It shouted... something else... I shook off both feelings.
I didn't want to deal with them right now...
Or ever, if I could manage... Right now, I'd love to be able to end this with “what feelings?“ Unforunately...
I can't...
I fell back asleep thinking and awoke once more in the same position...
Why me...? I thought. However, Vanessa greeted my eyes with her own half-open ones.
“Morning sweetie…” I smiled, although I wanted to resent that.
“Morning…” I looked at her for a moment and then closed my eyes again. She removed her leg from the side of mine but decided it'd be alright to hug me. And I kind of realized that she was really warm.
And so I kind of... hugged her back... And, well... we kind of just laid there...together...for, like, awhile...
And...yeah...
Okay, whatever, she was warm!
Whatever you have to say, get it out of your system; c'mon, let's hear it...
...
There, feeling better?
Any who, guess who decides to greet us as we're laying on the beach?
“Ah, hey, it's the couple from earlier!” I opened my eyes (yes, they were closed (she was warm!)) and looked up to see Vaan.
“Hey, it's gender-confused guy!” I kind of attempted to stand up but Vanessa decided I was fine where I was.
No comment... He kind of smiled...a little, but he seemed sad almost. This time I did stand up and I pulled Vanessa with me.
“Hey, where's your girlfriend? He laughed when Vanessa said this.
“Melody? Ha, she's my sister. I was just playin'!” I laughed as did Vanessa but Vaan just posed. “I guess I'm just that good of an actor.”
Yeah, sure, I thought.
Well, Vanessa and I were both covered in sand. I guess it was normal though because as I looked around, so were a lot of other couples. Maybe it wasn't so...unnatural...
No, don't think like that...
“So, what are you guys gonna do today? Another makeout session?” Vanessa laughed a bit too loud and I'm pretty sure my face turned bright red.
“No, I don't think so. But then, I guess it's up to Destiny, not me.” My face went redder I think and they continued to laugh.
“Whatever. Is there anything going on today?” I wanted to change the subject.
Badly.
“Honey, there's always something going on. Obviously, Vaan was acting; he looked, um, that way but there was just something about him that made him seem straight, even if he was in drag...
“Like what?” I asked
“Well,” started Vanessa, “if there isn't anything going on, you can always start something. Like, a party or somethin. And then, there's always the arcade, though not that many people go there.”
“I do.”
“Well oviously Vaan, you're a guy.” We laughed a bit and I kinda lost my nervousness.
Just a bit.
“Well, what are we going to do?” I asked. Vanessa shrugged but decided to slip her hand into mine.
Sigh whatever... Vaan looked away for a moment, seemingly in his own little world. “Any, like, hangouts?”
“There's a bar…” She shrugged I looked at her funny. “No Destiny, there's no alchohol…”
I gave her a relieved look. “Unless you know who to talk too.” I looked back at her and she laughed.
She squeezed my hand and forced me to run. Okay, fine, I ran with her, there was no forcing.
Happy?
There was a bar on the coast; it looked like a little beach hut. Fortunately, there were a only few people there but they seemed...
“Are they, um... drunk? Vanessa smiled. “No, seriously, are they?” She nodded, grinning all the while. She walked up to the bar, a tall girl in a bikini turning towards her
“Oh my gosh; Vanessa, how have you been? I haven't seen you in so long!” She reached over the counter and hugged her as well as she could.
I felt...maybe...for a second...jealousy...?
She was a good foot taller than both Vannessa and Destiny and looked like Vanessa a lot.
“Oh my gosh Karen, I've been so grand. How have you been?” Karen smiled and went around to the other side of the bar.
“Well, I've turned down twelve different girls just last week and I feel like a million bucks. Oh, how 'bout you? You turn any down?” She kind of averted her eyes and Karen caught on immediately. “You didn't...did you get a girlfriend?” Her eyes fell on me and I instantly felt nervous. I decided I might as well walk up.
“Hi... karen. My name's... Destiny.” I outstretched my hand and she took it. I realized my heart was thumping and I was breathing fastly.
“Calm down Destiny, I won't bite.
She smiled for a moment and then turned back to her sister. Is she alsways so nervous?” Vanessa laughed.
“Be nice. She's still finding her footing. She only got here two days ago.”
“Oh, a newbie. So, how do you like Starshine?” I shrugged.
“Well, it's definitely interesting, at least in the couple thing... She laughed.
“Yeah, that's what I thought at first too. Now it seems normal, though I don't have a girlfriend.”
Will it seem normal to me eventually too?
What about when I go back home...?
What then?
“And yet,” Karen said,” you got yourself a girlfriend! I don't know whether to laugh at you or be happy for you.” I gave them a puzzled look.
“I kinda said that I wouldn't ever stoop to having a girlfriend…” Vanessa looked sheepish.
“And then she goes and gets one a month after she gets here. Hilarious!” She began to laugh. Something rose in me, some heated passion. Don't ask why but I was angry.
“Hey, get off her case! What she does is her own affair and you can't approve nor disapprove of this...this coupling thing!” I breathed heavily and saw that Karen looked very startled. Vanessa, however, looked really... really happy.
“Hey, calm down there girl. I have every right to tell her how I feel and it's not that I'm saying it's bad. If anything, I'm happy she chose such a protective girl to be with.” I think I kinda flushed, perhaps because of the leaving of the anger or the embarassment of what she had just said.
Maybe both.
“Destiny, Karen is my sister.”
“…Oh.” Crap, that was retarded of me... I should have caught that...
...
And I felt jealous!!! “I'm sorry…”
“Hey, it's cool. And besides, if your my sister's girlfriend, then your my sister too.”
She hugged me, her warmth filling me. And I guess it's nice to be loved. Hmm...
Yeah, it is.
“So, you got any of the good stuff,” asked Vanessa, smiling.
“Hmm? Oh yeah, hold on…” She turned around and walked down into some sort of cellar. She returned with a couple of red bottles and handed one to each of us.
“What's in it? I wasn't exactly against alcohol but, well…”
“It's just a wine cooler.” Vanessa laughed and popped it opened. I opened mine but watched as Vanessa drank hers down almost instantly.
“Something a little harder please.”
“Vanessa!?” I exclaimed. She shrugged and her sister handed her another bottle, though this one was green. I took a sip of mine and... it tasted really good. “What is this?” I found it was like potatoe chips; bet you can't eat just one.
“It's just a wine cooler.” Vanessa seemed to laugh again, though she was halfway through her second bottle. I figured I'd better catch up.
“So, does this cost anything?
“No,” answered Karen,” it's figured into your expenses you already paid.”
“Hey, what do the colors mean? Is it taste?” She shook her head.
“It's how hard it is, if you catch my drift.”
“Mm, okay.” I looked at Vanessa, her third bottle a purplish-blue. I laughed.
“Got any black?” I didn't expect her to take me seriously, because Vanessa definitely didn't.
Karen handed me one and for a moment I wasn't sure if I should. But, of course, Vanessa was over there guzzling down bottle after bottle so...
I popped the top and drank...
List of things I would never do back at home:
A: Get a girl friend
B: Get wasted
How am I doing?
I awoke sometime during the night. I sat up, or at least kind of, and looked around. No one was really around and I was alone. Well, not quite. I looked down and saw that Vanessa's stomach had been my pillow. I shook her and she stirred.
“Mm... what happened?” I asked. She opened her eyes partially. Then she began to laugh histarically. “What? What happened?”
“Why on earth did you ask for the black?” I froze, trying to think back what had happened. We had woke up on the beach, we'd seen... Vaan, was it? We had walked, I think met her sister, and then...
“Man, you were definitely different.” I turned back to her, my face pale.
“What-Did-I-Do?” She gave me a puzzled look.
“You don't remember? You must have really been out of it.” I attempted to stand and I did with her help. “You did some interesting stuff, that's for sure.”
“…Like?”
“Well, um…” She looked around.
“Hey, were you not wasted?”
“Obviously not as bad as you Destiny”
“Okay, seriously, what did I do?” I laughed a bit but she seemed really nervous.
“You, well, you um...
“Yes?”
“You... kissed me…”
Part 3
We didn't talk the rest of the night. We had walked back to the dorm rooms and had just... slept. She might've said good night and I might have answered but nothing else.
Was it such a big deal? I mean, I had apparently been way out of it. So if I had been drunk, and I know she had been too, just not as bad, then why did it matter so much? I shifted in bed with the answer floating in my head. I could have easily grasped it. I had so many supporting reasons.
Other girls did it.
Heck, everyone here did.
It was alright. But, there was a wall in front of the answer.
A big one. It was labeled “upbringing/moralities“.
And I couldn't reach around it, no matter how much I did or didn't want to.
The night was restless and as I tossed and turned, I slipped into an uneasy slumber. I dreamt that I was back at my old school, before I had been sent to Starshine. Vanessa was there and we were talking when a bunch of girls came up to us. They looked like they were gonna talk to us but they just smirked and sneered at us as they walked by. I felt really sad and confused but each time a group of girls did this, Vanessa would grab my hand and cheer me up. And finally, when every girl had laughed or made fun of us, I smiled and sighed and said “the rest is all downhill.” And Vanessa said “Only if you want to, it's up to you.”
I woke up to bells ringing.
Classes.
Crap, I had forgotten. I forced myself to stand and get dressed. As before, there was an outfit set out on my dresser; no doubt Vanessa's work. I took it reluctantly, my thoughts still cloudy and troubling.
Hmm...
A light blue shirt. Not lowcut, thank god.
Again, a white skirt, though at least it didn't show anything.
I found myself thinking about yesterday and the day before. I would have never wore anything like that back at home. So why had I worn it, especially at someone else's bidding? Once more answers raced to my head but I ignored them. Same kind of leg warmers, just as stylish. ...Another thing I would never where...
I sighed and fell back onto my bed.
I really needed to get my mind in order. But now I didn't have time. I stood back up, picked up my books, and walked out the door.
School, yeah, it was bad. I couldn't concentrate during any of my classes and, although I was new and still learning stuff, I was completely lost. My mind kept lingering back to last night, what Vanessa had said...
“You...kissed me,” she had said...
My mother had once told me that when you are drunk or tired, things you say tend to be more true because you don't have as many moralities attached. Granted, my mother wasn't very reliable for advice but...
Does that mean that I wanted to do it? All along?
Another question: did she kiss me back?
Too many questions, too many emotions.
I put my head down on my desk and tried to sort them all out again.
“Hey Destiny, over here!” Vanessa's and Vaan's voice. I was scared honestly. I was scared of what I might say or do or what she might say or...do. I took my tray and sat down next to her, my mouth closed and my mind relaxed.
Kind of.
“So,” said Vaan, “what didja do yesterday? You guys just kinda ran off…” Well, there went my relaxed concentration.
“I dunno, we just kinda hung out. She met my sister and yeah, that's 'bout it.” Thanks Vanessa, I thought.
“Whoo, good. I was kinda scared you guys were gonna have another make-out session.” My face paled as I cringed.
“And, of course, I can't have that.” My mouth was dry and I reached for Vanessa's hand without realizing it. She took it and squeezed it back.
“So,” began Vanessa, “trying to change the subject, what did you do yesterday?”
“Hmm, well, I suppose I harassed some girls about being together and man did I get an ear-full.” Vaan continued to talk but I didn't hear any of it; I felt sick and despairing and stressed. What was I going to do? Vanessa saw my panic and grabbed me. She pulled me up and ran me to the bathroom. I flew to the toilet and vomited, the alcohol obviously affecting my bodily functions. She stood there and held back my hair for me. Afterwards, I cleaned up and I sat on counter with her.
“What... what really happened last night?” I didn't know if I wanted the answer but I had to ask.
“Well, like I said, you were way gone and you kissed me…” It seemed like it was hard for her almost to say it too.
“Did I say anything?”
She stared off into space for a moment, obviously in deep thought.
“You said that you were sorry you were being like that. That you weren't sure if you were ready. I agreed but you said you were willing to try.” I winced...
“Did I...did you kiss me back...? She looked me once more in the eyes and slowly nodded.
I saw in her eyes that she was like me; thrown into a world that contradicts what we were brought up to know.
“I... I wasn't as gone as you, by no means And when you...when you did kiss me... It felt so good and it was so right…”
I nodded, our eyes still locked.
My hand slipped to hers and we held them together.
I held my breath as she leaned forward.
I could have backed away.
I should have.
I would have if I had any sense.
I didn't.
Our lips met for only a moment and in that second, my wall of indecision faded.
“So,” started Vanessa,” what are we gonna do...?” I smiled.
We were still in the bathroom, on the counter, hand-in-hand.
“I don't know…” We were both relaxed and completely silent. It was funny. I had just kissed her for the first time; my, no, our lips had met. And how I wanted them to meet again. “Whatever we decide to do, I'm with you all the way Vanessa.”
“Why don't we just be open and ourselves?” I realized that the only problem with that was our moralities; and mine had just burnt away.
“I like that idea but how do you think Vaan will feel? She laughed.
“He'll be just fine; I think he already has someone.”
“Really?”
“Yeah, he just doesn't want anyone to know.”
“Okay then, so we're just gonna be completely out in the open about this?” I needed an answer.
“Does that sound good to you? she asked. She seemed just as unsure as me.
“Yes,” I said. “We won't have to worry about anything. I mean, we are at Starshine.
“Yeah, that's true.” Vanessa licked her lips.
“Hey?” She looked up as I spoke.
“Yeah?” she answered I licked my own lips and held my breath.
“Um…” She smiled and moved closer.
“Did you want...?”
“Can we...?”
We leaned in and kissed again, this time our hands crawling behind each other's heads.
It lasted longer than the last one and when we were done, I laughed. “For all the time I spent making fun of all of those couples that...kissed…”
“It's funny that we're one now, right?” Vanessa finished She smiled and jumped down. I jumped down as well and put my arm around her shoulder. She opened the door and then put her arm around my waist.
“Back to the lunch table we go,” I said. And so we did, side by side.
“What was that all about?” Vaan asked as he saw us walk back in. “And what are you two so happy about?” He was puzzled but he looked suspicious after awhile. “You two...what happened?” We both looked at each other, still standing up, and smiled.
“We've decided that through thick and thin,” I started.
“Come hell and high water,” she continued. “That we're together.”
It sounded so...complete.
“So, you two have admitted it then?” Vaan was frowning funnily.
“Eh, sure, why not,” I said nonchalantly. I realized that I was still holding Vanessa tight. She was too.
“Well, say it then.” Vaan crossed his arms and sat back, smiling mildly
“Say what?” asked Vanessa.
“Say it. Say the word.” I was confused but Vanessa knew what he meant. She turned her head and whispered in my ear.
Oh, I see, I thought.
“Are we really?” I asked.
“I'm pretty sure we are now,” Vanessa answered.
“Hmm...I guess so. But do we really need to tell him and everybody else?”
“I think they deserve to know.” We both smiled.
“Fine then,” I said.
“We're lesbians, “we said in unison. It sounded so complete and immediately afterwards, we embraced and we kissed.

My fable for Creative Writing Class

Once, not so long ago, in a small portion of a great forest, there lived a small school of rodents. Now, among this group of tiny creatures lived a small, cute mouse named Ilia. She was extremely dazzling but even more so intelligent. She also had many friends, one of which was Hannah, the closest of all. It seemed like everywhere that Ilia tread, Hannah was sure to follow, and visa versa.
However, as brilliant as Ilia was, that was not to say she was perfect. As a matter of fact, she was quite far from it. But no one knew that, because to all, she seemed elegant and a perfect imitation of a princess. Well, no, there was one who knew who she really was. But Hannah was never going to tell a soul about this, though she herself disagreed with it. And that’s how one fateful afternoon turned into an almost disastrous evening.

Ilia and Hannah were packing their bags when one of “The Rats” approached her. Now, “The Rats” were a gang in school, composed entirely of rats. And as mean and grizzly as they all were, they were all just as popular. Now Hannah and Ilia both knew how mean they all were to all of the other students but really, Ilia wanted to fit in just like they all seemed to.
“Hey Ilia, we’re going down to the lake later. It’s sure to be a blast; wanna come?” This particular rat was named Lector, one of the higher-ups in their “gang.” Particularly, he was one of the nicest looking of “The Rats” but overall, he was also the meanest.
“Uh, sure, yeah! What are we gonna do there?” Ilia was surprised he asked this of her but was eager to be liked.
“Heh, we’re gonna go swimming of course. I mean, you can swim, right?” He had an air of charm about him, at least to Ilia; to others, he just stank.
“Oh yeah, of course, hehe… who can’t swim?” Ilia answered uneasily. In truth, she couldn’t. Nor could any one of her friends, to be honest.
“Well good,” began Lector,” I’ll see you there.” He plodded off silently.

“What?” asked Hannah,” You’re going down to the lake with “The Rats” tonight? What are you thinking?!”
“Oh, you’re making too big of a deal out of it.” Ilia tried to keep cool but she was really nervous too.
“Can you even swim?!”
“Well… no, but-”
“You’re going to drown you idiot! Why did you ever agree with this!”
“I don’t know, I just kinda did.” Ilia felt sick now with anxiety.
“It’s all right, just don’t go.” Ilia looked at Hannah like she was crazy.
“Are you kidding? I have to go! How would I look if I agreed to but didn’t show up!?”
“Well, I’m pretty sure you won’t look so great if you’re dead!”
“Whatever, Hannah, thanks for the help; I’m going anyway.” She trudged off as fast as she could.
“Ilia…” Hannah said quickly but she rounded a corner and was gone.

“Glad you could make it.” Lector was already in the giant lake swimming; all of the other rats were splashing and rough-housing too.
“Uh, yeah, I am too…” she looked around quickly, her knees shaking.
“So, you gonna get in?” He swam to the bank and treaded water.
“Yeah, just… let me get ready…” She went back behind a large mushroom stalled for time. What was she going to do?
“Where is she?!” Ilia jumped out from behind the large mushroom when she heard that. She looked and saw Hannah telling Lector off. He looked shocked but at the same time, quite angry.
“You know mice can’t swim! Why would you even ask her to come?!”
“We thought it’d be funny to see her squirm for awhile. I mean, we wouldn’t let her drown or anything; it was all in good fun.”
“Yeah, let’s all laugh at her as she struggles to swim and stay alive; all good fun, yeah right!”
Ilia could feel her heart beating real fast by now, so much pride and happiness filling her chest she almost started to cry. But instead, she clenched her fists and stepped out and walked towards Hannah.
“Ilia, you’re all right!”
“Yeah, I’m good. Thanks… You were right, I shouldn’t have come.” Hannah just smiled.
“Ha, you’re not gonna swim after all? What a wimp.” Lector began laughing, as did all the other rats. “You know what, I don’t care what you think!” Ilia stormed up to Lector. “You think you can just push me around, make me feel bad and I won’t do anything about it?”
Lector stepped backwards.
“Well I’m through acting! I can’t swim, and I don’t care what you think!” and with that she pushed him into the water. She immediately turned around and walked back toward Hannah, a huge grin on her face.
“Let’s go.”

Moral: You should never act in opposition to your true nature, for you may find yourself in a position worse than you can handle.

Note: A true friend has learned the melody of your heart and plays it back to you when you can no longer hear it.

Formalities? Who needs 'em?

The sun had crept over the hills many hours ago and yet the prince still slept. It was his maid’s duty to wake him but she never woke him until the last possible moments. She knew the mischief he had committed last night at the darkest hours but they had developed a trust over the years and she told no one. She knew him better than many of his advisors as well as, she thought, even his own father.
She was sure that soon, judging by the situation of the sun directly above the castle, the prince’s advisors and teachers would begin to wonder where he was. Actually, she was always surprised that he could sleep this long as it was but she thought it might have been because he slept in like this quite often.
She could hear the faintest of footsteps strolling down the hallway and, the prince’s room being the only place any person should come upon inside the west wing of the castle, she knew that now would be the last possible moments that she had to wake him.
Quickly, she opened the door and ran to the prince’s bed. He was still sound asleep but she shook him and he sprang awake.
“Your Highness, you must wake up now. Someone’s coming.” The prince’s head felt of slight vertigo, obviously still asleep, but he knew that he must awaken quickly. He sprang up, his silk nightclothes sliding effortlessly across his royal sheets. The maid turned around, as she was accustomed to doing so often by now. He quickly strode to his closet and ripped out his attire for the day. He changed swiftly.
“Mayleena, I thought I told you to call me Hawkeye from now on.” He was still changing but both talked to each other from behind turned backs, as usual. He pulled a nice doublet over his wild, brown hair, not even unbuttoning it
“You Highness, it is not right for a maid and a prince to become as close as we are and I’d prefer we didn’t make it any worse than it already is.” She said this with an endearing smile, knowing that indeed they had become quite close. Hawkeye smiled as well, preparing to do something foolish but fun. He turned back around, his clothed on fully.
“You know,” he walked to her and placed his hands on her cheeks,” you really need to brighten just a tad.” He kissed her on the cheek. Mayleena flushed heavily, averting her eyes from his.
“Hawkeye, er, I mean you High—“
“You’re really cute when you’re embarrassed, you know that? Relax.” And with that he left, the door closing extra softly behind him.
“Why do you have to be so—“ she left it hanging, her blush subsiding. She sighed and cleaned up after her lord.
Hawkeye chuckled to himself as soon as he was sure that the door was closed. He knew that what she said was true, that they were too close, but he cared little, his exact feelings reflected for his position in the world. A lazy, reckless, young man trapped in a prince’s body. He saw that the person coming for him earlier had been Councilman Gregory, his most trusted.
“Ah, there you are my lord. Perhaps you have been in your room this entire morn, my lord?” Gregory smiled, his youthful face showing true. Hawkeye smiled. Gregory knew that he slept this late this often but he did nothing to tell the others.
“What am I to do today Gregory? History lessons, fencing class?” He smiled as Gregory slowed his pace and turned around to continue down the hall beside Hawkeye.
“Actually, we have something quite interesting to discuss with you today Hawk. I might actually keep your attention. Doubt it, but I can dream, right?” Gregory was one of the few he could count on to treat him like an actual human being, not a piece of property. Granted, he didn’t do so in front of the other Councilmen, but he was a good friend.
They moved to the council room, Hawkeye now more or less awake.
“Ah, the young prince has decided to join us. We are honored.” The one speaking was Councilman League, a very pretentious Councilman if there ever was one. Hawk knew this was sarcasm to a certain degree but put on a respectable face and sat at his designated spot beside his father.
“Well, to refresh our young prince, you are aware of our position in the world relative to DeNninca, correct?” They laughed and Hawkeye smiled and nodded. He wasn’t dumb but they all knew his dislike of politics and geography.
“Well, just recently, they’ve amassed patrols on both our and Feylen’s borders, to the north. They have yet to move in any direction but scouts report that much of they’re population in armed.” Hawkeye listened intently for once. DeNninca was a large country to their west and bordered them on the west side. Feylen bordered them from the north and there was ocean from east to south. However, DeNninca was known for its agriculture, not military. Then again, it did have ten times as large of a population of either Feylen or their country.
“In hope of gaining allies against this numerable threat, they have offered a proposal.” Chattering began at this but Hawkeye’s father silenced them and motioned for them to continue.
“You Majesty, King Saynfurth of Feylen has offered a wedding proposal to your son, his Highness Lord Hawkeye to marry the princess of Feyland, her Grace, Princess Fayeful.”
“I will not! I will not marry some foreign prince!” Not only have I never met him but also this is purely political. Surely, father, you jest. I wish to marry to a man that I love.” Faye was pacing back and forth furiously, her slender body moving as quickly as her mouth. Her hands were seemingly tearing out her blonde hair but she cared not.
“Please, Faye, you must listen to reason. Prince Hawkeye is of marrying age, as are you. Both our country and his are surely to benefit from a treaty such as this. And besides, he may be a very nice guy. You said so yourself, you’ve never met him.” Faye continued to pace frantically, her arms waving wildly.
“Father, why though? Why can’t we just agree on another treaty, one involving trade or something? Why does it have to involve me?” She had stopped pacing, her eyes boring deep holes into her father’s.
“My dear Fayeful, you know that both your mother and I have nothing but the best at heart for you. And besides all that, from what the wind has told us,” he winked,” this Hawk is actually a lot like you.” She winced, not sure if she could stand to argue with herself. She sighed, knowing now that she could do little about this. She bowed without another word and left the room, the door slamming behind her.
“Nice display out there.” A deep voice came from behind her.
“Slash, the shadows really don’t suit you. Come out and let’s talk.”
“I have little interest in your frivolous talking but if I must.” A tall boy emerged from the shades, his choppy black hair and silent demeanor exiting with him. He wore a thief’s garments, clashing opposites with Faye’s bright blue dress.
“Oh c’mon Slash, you know that you can relax in my presence.”
“I never relax.” His eyes were closed, his arms crossed.
“Oh whatever, just c’mon, I got lots of news.”
“I heard; have fun getting married.” Slash was known for his blunt remarks and candid statements. Fayeful had gotten used to them by now however.
“All right, so you know. But what do you think of it?” She stopped and looked at him, her interest in his answer noticeably apparent. He neither stopped nor opened his eyes but just continued down the hallway.
“Hey! Just a small answer, please?”
“You’ll do what the treaty asks; you’ll get married. That’s the end.” More with the blunt remarks, she thought.
“But what do you think? Tell me more please. Is it a good idea?”
“I doesn’t matter what I think; you’ll do it anyway. But it’s not like anything can harm you, you being kind of a key point in this whole treaty, an agreement both countries need dreadfully. And if that weren’t enough, I’ll be with you whether you know it or not.” He flipped a dagger out and tested it on his finger and continued to walk. Faye smiled as she took her strides faster for a bit to catch up. She knew that he was a good friend. He had a few entrusting problems, but a good friend nonetheless.
That night, Fayeful made a promise to herself. She wouldn’t marry this man against her will. She wanted to marry someone she loved. And she vowed to do so.
Hawkeye remained calm as they read the marriage proposal out loud. He smiled but inside, he screamed. He didn’t want to marry right now. But he let none know this.
Many of the Councilmen, however, were against this. They claimed they needed no help from any foreign country and for a moment Hawkeye saw a glimmer of hope. However, only a small portion of them said so, and therefore, the other councilmen and Hawk’s father overruled them.
After the meeting was adjourned, he sprinted back to his room, Mayleena was lying on his bed, sleeping. She had a bundle of clothes in her arms, having obviously fell asleep while doing her job.
Hawk smiled and took a moment to remove the clothes from her lap and cover her with a blanket. He started towards his closet but stopped for a moment. He went back to her and kissed her on the forehead and smiled.
“I’ve told you to stop it,” her mouth moved despite her tranquility and Hawkeye jumped in surprise. She opened her eyes and sat up.
“You faker!” yelled Hawkeye.
“You tramp!’ yelled Mayleena.
“You can’t call me that, I’m a prince!”
“You can’t kiss me like that, I’m a maid!”
“You—I—“ Hawkeye stopped and whirled around, remembering his predicament. Mayleena giggled. She seemed puzzled after a moment, however, since he showed no more interest in their short argument.
“What are you packing for?” she asked. He was hurriedly shoving clothes into a bag, breathing deeply all the while.
“You haven’t heard the terrible news? I am affianced to some princess from Feylen!”
“Feylen? So you mean Princess Fayeful? I’ve heard that she is… well, actually, I’ve heard that she’s like you… exactly.”
“Yeah, yeah, sure. Help me pack!” She raised an eyebrow for a moment.
“You aren’t… you aren’t going to run away, are you?” He turned around and practically exploded, his arms coming down and going rigid in an expression shouting “DUH!”
“No. No, I won’t allow it.” She stood in front of the door.
“You can’t stop me.” He didn’t even turn around but continued to pack rapidly.
“Aye, I can and I will. I’ll tell everyone about your escapades out of the castle.” He stopped and whirled around, advancing on her. Should he have been any other man in that fit of despair, she would have been quite frightened.
“You wouldn’t…” He seemed dark in his words.
“Would and will. This may seem very un-maid-like of me but I’m not about to see a perfectly good opportunity to tame your reckless nature pass both you and me by.”
“Fine. You win!” He threw his hands up and jumped face first onto his bed. She smiled, knowing fully that this was not the end of this argument but just a suspension on the argument. She sighed nonetheless and left the room, a brilliantly golden hue emitting from the mixture of sun clouds. Once more, she sighed. She sighed for she wished that she had been born a princess.
Fayeful’s parents wasted practically no time in making arrangements for their daughter’s wedding after they had received notice that the treaty was in agreement. Days later, a ship carrying the princess of Feylen south was moving swiftly down the DeNninca River. Aboard, her most trusted friend Slash, at her bidding, of course, and a handful of royal guardsmen should disaster strike. Besides that, there were the men running the boat and helping navigate it down the erratically swerving river.
“so here’s the plan. You make a distraction among the guards. I’ll jump the boat and swim to shore. Ready?” The princess seemed quite serious but Slash knew better.
“One. You see that guard standing over there? If you were to go missing, he would be the first to know and the first to tell the entirety of the crew. Two. The river is infested with who knows what. You jump, not only will it delay the trip, and believe me, I hate boats, but you might and probably will drown or be attacked by whatever.” His eyes were closed the entire time, not a hint of emotion coming through his mouth save perhaps a twinge of annoyance. He opened his eyes to see she was gone. He looked around, seeing her leaning over the edge.
He still thought she wouldn’t do it but he wasn’t sure now. Not only had stuff about the things in the river been partially untrue, he was wasn’t sure if the crew would realize that she was gone. As he walked over to the guards to tell them of the potentially dangerous situation, he heard a man on the boat scream ‘Man Overboard!’
Slash ran to the side, disbelief showing. A smile crept to his face; something interesting had finally happened. The tide was strong but it was swim able. Probably.
He took off his shoes and then his shirt, leaving a darker pair of baggy pants remaining. He stood up on the deck, took a deep breath, dove.
The crewmen threw a rope to him and, after surfacing, he grabbed it and saw to the princess, still swimming strongly.
“Faye. Stop this and come back to the ship.” He said this more to himself but was sure that if she wanted to, she could have heard it. Slash, being much stronger and a particularly good swimmer, he caught up with her and wrapped his arm around her. She struggled but he held her, the rope going taut as they were drug back.
Suddenly, the rope snapped but not because of wear and tear. Slash gasped as he saw a pointed tail; the culprit. He drew a dagger, not knowing how much help it would be. He spun around wildly, sound seemingly stopping as he readied himself for an attack. Fayeful was now tired, despite her obvious determination.
Snap! Twisting claws wrapped around Slash’s ankle and drug him under, his grasp of Faye freeing. The underwater world was deeper than he had believed it could be but it was brighter as well. He caught sight of the beast, its lashing claws but tentacles connecting to it. Slash cut at the tentacle but it was like cutting at metal. He put his dagger away and concentrated on swimming up and away from it’s grasp. Faye held onto the end of the looped rope and was pulled up aboard by the crew.
“What were you thinking princess? You could have drowned!” Fayeful coughed vigorously and she sat up uneasily on deck.
“Where… Slash…” She had trouble talking as she breathed heavily.
“He disappeared after reaching you under the waves. Please, relax. It was because of him we were able to save you.”
“No, he… he has to be…” Her head felt heavy as it dropped to the deck and her mind blackened. A few of the men carried her to her room but a few remaining ones saw that the crystal water of the river bled and a lone body floated. The ship was directed closer as it floated by and it was intercepted and brought aboard.
Faye awoke to see Slash sitting in a chair in the corner, eyes closed as always.
“I’m hoping that now you’ll have enough sense to stay onboard.” Faye saw that his left ankle was bound in a white, bloodstained cloth.
“I’m glad to see you’re all right too. And I would’ve made it if you hadn’t stopped me.”
“I don’t think so. I barely got away from whatever dragged me under and if it had chosen you instead, you wouldn’t be here. And thanks to you, I had to find that out the hard way.” He stood up, no pain even appearing as he put his weight equally on both feet. He bowed, as if to leave.
“Slash, a moment, please.” Slash stood back up, his eyes open but looking down. He held no expression.
“What do you want? If you’re going to complain about your marriage-to-be, forget it.”
“I—I just wanted to say… Thanks. If you weren’t there, I would’ve died.” She was near tears but Slash could only grimace.
“As we covered moments ago. Is that all?” He bowed once more and walked towards the door. He stopped for a second, as if to add something.
“Stay in bed.” He left silently and Faye smiled weakly. Although he was quite callous, Faye knew he meant well. Perhaps Hawkeye would be like that, she thought. No, no one could be better than her Slash.
On the morning of Faye’s arrival, Hawkeye awoke much earlier than usual, or even earlier than he was actually even supposed to. He had to think of a plan to escape now. He was sure Mayleena would be right outside in the hall and that if he were to make a break for it, he would have to go through her.
He chose his clothes carefully. Although he had no intention of getting caught, he chose clothes that he would wear to meet the princess but also loose and stealthy enough to avoid getting caught. He just didn’t have a way to get past his maid. Oh well, he thought. We’ll just wing it.
“What are you doing up? You usually don’t wake up for a few more hours.” Mayleena was in literal shock as he opened his door to the hallway, dressed perfectly and clean.
“Ah, I couldn’t sleep. I’m supposed to meet the princess anyway and I thought it might be a tad rude to show up late or not at all.”
“Yes, it would be. So why do you intend to take off and escape so soon? Wouldn’t it be more polite to at least meet her, speaking of etiquette.” Man, she knew him too well, he thought.
“Nah, I intend to meet her. I already told you, you win. I won’t run, don’t worry.”
“Sure, that’s right, you don’t run and I’ll drop dead. Believe me, before this is all, you will try to run. I know that wasn’t the end yesterday.”
“Okay, fine, I am going to escape. And I won’t be stopped!” He grinned defiantly.
“I’ll make sure you attend.” Mayleena stamped her foot down and looked him square in the eyes.
“Mm, okay, how about you come with me? We’ll run away together and neither of us will have to listen to anybody.” Mayleena’s heart wrenched; out of all the questions he could have asked, he asked that one, she thought. She fought back the tears but was unsuccessful as her composure was lost completely. She turned from him, tears flooding her vision, and dashed down the hall, crying audibly.
“That was… interesting.” Hawkeye stood there for a moment, dumbstruck. He then cracked a smile, as the coast was now clear. He snuck down the hallway, creeping ever to softly.
“We present her Highness, Princess Fayeful Feylen.” A mass of guardsmen created ranks around her miniature body, Slash by her side to an extent. He never walked in public, but she could have him to her in a matter of seconds. They strode off the boat, a crowd of most of the people in the kingdom there to receive her. But to Faye’s amusement, a prince was not among them. She smiled, remembering that Hawkeye was supposed to be a lot like her. Perhaps he had fled, as she had tried to do.
They continued their march to the palace in the center of the city. Faye wasn’t sure yet, however, if he was actually supposed to receive her at the dock. Maybe he would be waiting respectfully in the palace. Or perhaps he would be there in his pajamas, just waking up. Faye giggled, wondering if he would even be there at all.
The door was thrown open to a large throne room and once more Faye was announced. Inside, an elderly king sat atop the throne in the middle. However, the lesser throne next to it, the prince’s throne, was empty. She smiled, realizing now that this was where he was supposed to meet her. They approached the throne, Faye curtsying gracefully.
“Greetings Princess Fayeful Feylen. I am in disappointment to announce that my son, Prince Hawkeye, is nowhere to be found. However, once we find him, we will—“ He was cut off as a door leading to the throne room from the left was thrown open and Hawkeye was half pushed, half thrown in. Behind him stood Slash, his eyes closed as always and his arms crossed.
“I found him fleeing. This is the prince, right?” Hawkeye picked himself up and brushed himself off. He sighed, knowing he had been caught. How, though, he didn’t know. He was successfully evading everyone when this guy had come out of nowhere. His strength was unbelievable considering his lankiness but Hawkeye was easily forced into submission and led back to the throne room where he had been more or less tossed.
“May I present my son, Prince Hawkeye.” He chuckled slightly when he said it and seemed to be more amused then angry. Hawkeye waved at everyone but realized that that might be just a bit too casual and bowed instead. He saw the princess, almost a full foot shorter than him but she was actually quite beautiful. He walked over to her and outstretched his hand.
“Hello. You must be Princess Fayeful. Nice to meet you.” He smiled as he stood in front of her.
“Um, hi. You’re… Hawkeye, right?” She forgot her manners momentarily and bumbled slightly. She smiled inside, knowing that if she had to marry him, she would at least be content. Maybe.
Talking continued, arrangements were made and it was decided the sooner the two countries were allied, the better. Hawk and Faye had no say in this, as they had retreated to a far wall, away from the politics. Both knew that this wasn’t the way things were done; neither cared. They both had so much fun talking to each other and getting their minds off the marriage, they cared little for etiquette.
“And so Prince Hawkeye and Princess Fayeful shall be wed tomorrow at midday. It has been decided.” Hawkeye and Fayeful both winced at this but smiled weakly. They continued to talk until they were the last ones in the room. Finally, with a few parting words, they broke apart. Faye turned and walked east, instantly accompanied by “Hawkeye’s assailant” and he went west to his room.
“Well, it definitely went better than I had expected. Although, she was pretty fun to talk with, that’s for sure.” Hawk had described his encounter since he had gotten back and every time Faye’s name had cropped up in his words, Mayleena felt small pangs of jealousy. She chose not to show them.
“You know,” smiled Hawk,” you need someone too. Next chance I get, I’m going match-making for you.
“Um, that’s alright. I really don’t need anyone like that right now, thank you.”
“Really? But after I am married, who will kiss you?” He kissed her on the forehead, her height allowing this easily.
“Please. You can’t do that. I’ve already told you so many times; I’m but a maid. You’re a prince.”
“Fine but even after I’m married, I’ll still love you.” Mayleena could feel her heart cracking. She wanted so much to run to him, to wrap her arms around him and bury her face in his chest. But it was not her place. He was a prince and betrothed nonetheless. But she couldn’t keep herself from blurting those cataclysmic words.
“If—if you could… would you marry me?” She looked down while saying thi, her eyes touched with tears. Hawkeye stopped pacing and faced her, a calm coming over him. He walked to her and placed her soft hands in his.
“If I could, if my father would allow it I would marry you and love you until the day I die.” He bowed his head, so as to not let her see his sincerity.
“Earlier, you mentioned eloping. If I had said yes—“ she left it hanging.
“We would have ran away together.” She couldn’t help herself; the words just came out.
“Would you now?” She looked into his eyes as her words lifted his head in astonishment.
“Yes.” He didn’t care what this might result in. He knew he loved her. She looked down, her moralities catching up with her heart. Hawkeye’s heart was still ahead of his reasoning. He lifted her face, placing his gentle fingertips upon her cheek. He kissed her, not on the forehead but on the lips. She knew it wasn’t acceptable but she couldn’t stop. She deepened the kiss, her arms wrapping around his back.
“Ahem, Hawk,” Gregory was standing in the doorway. Hawkeye and Mayleena both hated him this moment, but they could do little as they threw themselves away from each other.
“Um, yes, what, uh, did you need something Gregory?” said Hawkeye, stammering slightly.
“Besides to tell you that you have a princess waiting at the dinner table for you, my lord? No, nothing else You Highness.” Gregory exited and Hawk shared a glance with Mayleena. She smiled, having gotten to share a kiss with the man she loved. She nodded and Hawkeye left to dine. I got what I’ve wanted for so long, she thought. But what will happen the next time we’re alone. She wasn’t sure if she could just be his maid anymore.
Directly after parting with Hawkeye, Faye had been led to a large room with a bed residing there that was big enough for half a dozen people.
“So, what should we do now?” She knew Slash was around somewhere.
“We wait and see if their intentions are true.” Slash came out from behind her. He sat beside her, his arms crossed and his eyes closed, as always.
“I don’t think that Prince Hawkeye was being false. He seemed quite sincere.”
“Perhaps. But he might not be as truthful as he may seem. Stay alert when you see him next.” He stood up and walked back to the shadows. Upon reaching them, there was a knock on the door.
“You Grace, your presence is requested in the dining hall.” He seemed to have an honest face and Faye nodded in acknowledgement to him.
“Dinner’s pretty early here, huh?” No answer. “Are you really gone that quickly? Oh well, guess I’ll get ready.”
Slash had snuck out in the brief moments that Fayeful had opened the door. He had a sneaking suspicion that something was wrong with Hawkeye. Before, when he had caught him, had seen franticness about him. He had some reason to run and Slash was curious as to what it was.
He snuck down the hallway, knowing that the prince’s room was in thw est wing of the castle. He walked calmly but he knew that no one would notice him even if he were to yell and scream in plain sight. Upon reaching the hallway, he saw the prince leaving his room. He silently hid behind a curtain until the prince had passed. Upon reaching the door, he opened it slightly and snuck in. A small girl met him, his own age.
“Who—“ She started but Slash moved swiftly, covering her mouth.
“You can see me? Why?” He let her go and kept his distance.
“Well, you are just standing there…” She was shocked that anyone would do this.
“Ah, I see. You are special.” He close dhis eyes.
“What? Who are you?”
My name is unimportant. However, I am the aide of your future queen.”
“Then I am the same as you. I’m Hawkeye’s maid.” He seemed almost to relax but only slightly, if at all.
“Then perhaps you can tell me something. Before he tried to escape, did he do something to do something to hurt you or someone else?”
“No, I don’t—“ She stopped. “Yes, he did actually.”
What?”
“I… can’t say; it’s personal.” She remembered she had ached afterwards.
“He hurt you? You heart?”
“How can you see my feelings as if I say them?” She placed her hand on her chest defensively.
“You love him, right?”
“You didn’t answer my question…” He opened his eyes and walked towards the door.
“If you know what’s good for Hawkeye and this monarchy, you won’t.” He left noiselessly. She shook her head in disbelief. Even though she knew those words to be true, she could never stop loving him.
Hawkeye was relieved to find that they had not begun to eat. He was also quite tickled that they had left him a seat right next to his bride-to-be. He took his seat beside her, her eyes closed in a trancelike state. He shrugged, his stomach empty and his eyes darting for any food.
Dinner was served and Faye came through, finding Hawkeye next to her. She had been litening to Slash through the air. He had told her of a maid that he had met. Apparently, her heart had been broken earlier. She thought it was interesting but would speak to him about it later.
“I’ve been meaning to try these delacicies.” Faye reached for some sort of meat and placed it on her plate. Hawkeye smiled a bit.
“Perhaps but they get old after you’ve had them everyday your whole life.” He picked up a piece of bread and took a bite. “What were you doing before, when you had your eyes closed?”
Hmm? Oh, I was just relaxing.” No one except for Slash and herself knew about their little secret.
“So,” Faye started,” who is this maid I am hearing about?” Hawkeye almost choked on the food he was eating but regained his composure quickly. Apparently Gregory had been quick at work with his rumors. They had to talk later, Hawk thought.
“Well, she’s been my maid for, uh, a little while and we’ve been friends as well.” That was a lie. Mayleena had been his maid ever since her mother had died and his friend since the time they had first met.
“Just friends?” Hawkeye gulped but kept his cool.
“I’m sure that she loves me but I’m a prince, as she would say. However, if this union of our countries hadn’t happened when it did,” he stopped to sigh,” I’m sure that we would’ve ended up together, I have no doubt.”
“You are a prince and yet you feel the same way for her, yes?”
Hmm. Yes, I suppose I love her but… I guess I’m betrothed now so it won’t matter. What about you? Do you feel love for anyone that this wedlock interrupted?” Hawk was glad that the spotlight was off him.
“A long time ago, I think maybe five or six years ago, I thought I loved someone. But he is something different from any other man. I know I love him but more as a brother as he loves me as a sister. But I would hazard a guess to say that that isn’t the way it is for your love, correct?” Hawkeye looked down, not sure if he could bring himself to answer that. He loved Mayleena with the entirety of his heart but he was betrothed now. And he knew that it couldn’t work.
“No, it’s… it’s the same. I love her… as a sister.” It pained him to say this, perhaps because it was a lie or maybe because he realized that his love for Mayleena would have to end.
“Mm. Then maybe your sister and my brother could get together and know each other.”
“Perhaps. Who is your brother?” Hawkeye had a sneaking suspicion he had met him.
“You’ve met him. He stopped your escape earlier.
“Ah… him…” Hawkeye rubbed his shoulder; it was still sore from hitting the ground.
“I don’t think that Mayleena will ever be able to forget about me though.”
“You haven’t, well, you know—“ she left it hanging.
“We’ve kissed. That’s it.”
“Oh.” Silence from both of them.
“Did you try and run before this?”
“Run might not be my choice word. Swim would be closer but yes, I did try to escape.”
Dinner continued as planned, and quite a party it was, but Hawkeye chose not to speak. After that conversation, he wasn’t sure he could stand any more questions about Mayleena. He was sure that Faye understood this and so she left him alone as well.
Hawkeye stood up and said his goodbyes to Faye for the night. She nodded, still eating and enjoying herself. He sighed and exiting the dining hall, the party still roaring without him. To his room he headed, not sure if Mayleena would be there to greet him.
He opened his door and found her in his bed, fast asleep. His room was spotless as always, not a speck of dust in sight. He could only stare at her, her face perfect in every way, her breathing in perfect pattern. He left her however, and walked to another room farther down the hall. He climbed into the significantly smaller bed and attempted to sleep. And no one saw the tears that he cried.
The night was misery. Over and over, he tossed. Nothing could sate his torture and send him to sleep; all he could do was try not to think about tomorrow. When morning finally did come, he found that he was still very tired. He went to his room, Mayleena gone, and got dressed in his nicest clothes. He then left to go and roam the castle.
He wanted more than anything to clear his mind but there was no way it was going to happen. Outside, he could see men finishing the site at which he was going to be married. It was on prairie land right beside the eastern coast. He could only feel soberness as he passed each window, the same loathed location in each one’s view. And without breakfast or any food at all, he prepared himself for the day, both physically and mentally.
The ceremony began once everyone was awake but overall, it seemed rushed. Or perhaps it was just because he was totally against it. Either way, he still stood on the stage next to Faye as the bishop read lines that he neither heard nor wanted to hear. This wasn’t the way things were done, Hawk noticed, but he had so much on his mind right now that he wanted to scream.
Defiance and sorrow, regret and madness; these thoughts swam in his head angrily but he felt bound to his path. Even as the vows were rounding the home turn, Hawkeye felt like running into the sea and drowning. He wished for something, anything to save him from this fate. He found himself asking even the gods for an escape. Always before had he had a back route out of things but now it seemed all too real.
His head hurt and his face was flushed and even as the bishop asked them to take each other’s hands, his face was wet with silent tears of remorse. Faye felt much the same way but to a much lesser of a degree.
“And now, Prince Hawkeye and Princess Fayeful, I—“ The bishop was stopped by a man in the distance running quickly from the castle. He reached the ceremony site and caught his breath.
“The hordes of DeNninca have retreated! The wedding is off! The wedding is off!” Hawkeye’s mind exploded. He could hardly contain himself. Faye smiled as well, though she looked quite embarrassed when seeing Hawkeye jump up and down. He stopped soon however, and a feeling of urgency replaced his pure bliss.
“Well Princess Fayeful, it seems as though our marriage is as of now over.”
“It seems that way yes. What will we do now?”
“Stay for awhile, enjoy the show.”
“Show?”
“You’ll see. Be back in a bit.”
“Very well Hawk. May you find a love worthy of you.”
“I already have.” And he took off, towards the castle.
He entered his own room and found Mayleena on his bed, face down and audibly crying. He went to her and placed his hand on her shoulder. She turned around and a look of pure surprise came over her, followed by a look of pure disgust.
“So, you’re married now aren’t you?” Her eyes were visibly wet with tears, her face red as though she had been crying all morning. She had been. “Why aren’t you with your wife?”
“The marriage never happened. It’s off. And as for the wife thing…” Hawkeye walked to her slowly and he kneeled in front of her. Her red face changed instantly to a pale blush.
“Mayleena, we’ve known each other our whole lives. Throughout all of it, you’ve been at my side; through all the jokes and the occasional escape. And you’ve never told anyone that it was I.” Hawkeye smiled even as he kept her eyes locked with his. Mayleena’s eyes were now teary again, but not in sorrow.
“I know of all the pain you’ve been through. You would always say that I am the prince, that you are the maid, that we are two different types of people. Now, I offer this: take my hand Mayleena, and be, for now and always, my princess. For even if all the stars and the suns were to be gone from the night sky, for you, now and always, my love will never die. So what do you say; will you be mine?
“Hawkeye—I—“
“No speech is needed to prove your love, just a simple yes or no will suffice.”
“Hawkeye, my prince now and always, a simple ‘yes’ will never be adequate when speaking of my love for you. There are no words that can describe it well enough so just know that I accept your proposal and would love with all my heart to be your princess.” And she placed her hands in his.
“Then let’s go.” And he took her hand and pulled her up, flying with all haste to the ceremony site.
As they arrived, all saw Hawkeye, hand in hand with his maid. Many were in awe, their speech leaving them completely. Others were vehement, their voices quite able to be heard. Only Gregory, it seemed, had a smile on his face, as the two walked down the aisle. Hawkeye approached the bishop and after a convincing word or two, he agreed to marry them. The crowd was silenced and the ceremony started over.
Before, these vows made Hawkeye seem so distant so distracted. Now, with all his heart, he focused on all the words. And even Mayleena, who knew none of the rituals, was full-hearted. And finally, it came to the end. The bishops asked each to take the other’s hands in their own and as they did, he declared them married. They looked deeply into each other’s eyes and, with the bishop’s blessings, Hawkeye wrapped his arms around her and she did so to him. And for the longest time he just stared into her bright green eyes. Finally, after grinning for a moment, he kissed her. The crowd cheered and even the angrier ones seemed at least content to say the least.
They released each other and laughed. How the world had such fortune on them, Hawkeye knew not. But he was thankful. They stepped off the stage and ran down the aisle together, once more hand in hand.
Faye looked next to her, Slash for once seated in public. She smiled and took his hands in hers, his eyes opening.
“So, what did you think of it?”
“They’ll be fine together. What else is there to say?”
“Mm, perhaps. Do you remember back when you said that you would do anything for me? I think it was about five or six years ago.”
“I can see where this is going…” Slash had closed his eyes once more.
“Then why can’t you just accept… or decline, I suppose.”
“And ruin your fun of asking it? Never.”
“Fine then.” She got down on one knee. “Slash, will you be my prince?” For once, Faye could have sworn she saw a slight smile touch his face, perhaps even a small blush. But if it was ever there, it was gone just as quickly.
“Will it make you happy if I say yes?” Faye smiled bigger and nodded. “I don’t think so, but we’ll see.” He stood up from his seat, pulling Faye up with him. “I’m not one for big ceremonies like those two.
However,” he looked, for the first time ever, or as Faye could tell, into her eyes,” I do love you.” And with that he closed his eyes, crossed his arms, and walked away from her. Faye wasn’t sure if she should be happy or sad but for both feelings, a tear fell from both of her eyes.
“He said ‘We’ll see’. Good odds,” she said smiling to no one in particular but dashed after him.
Afterwards, a party was held and Hawkeye and Mayleena could easily be seen from anywhere, as they seemed to radiate a glow that electrified their presences. Hawkeye wore a loose shirt of brilliant blue silk and pants the same. Mayleena, wore, for the first time, a dress suited for a princess. She danced gracefully and, having spent so much time around royalty, she was elegant and genius as she talked to everyone with Hawkeye by her side, of course. Even Fayeful and Slash danced and all who saw them were in awe at how perfectly they danced with each other.
The music was fast at first but soon grew slower as they were left alone in the field to dance. The crowd was drawn into a large bend around them, and as they danced, the sun started to draw behind the horizon. Hawkeye stopped and both of them looked towards the coast, the true brilliance that was witnessed only being seen by those two in love. They looked back at each other and smiled, the pure silence surrounding them just as wonderful. Their eyes met and their lips locked.