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Chapter Text

The door crashed open, and Marianne tumbled into her room. She slammed it shut behind her, the sound echoing through the space like a scream. Tears, hot and furious, streamed down her face. Sobs wracked her body, leaving her breathless. The image of what she'd witnessed was seared into her mind, a burning brand she couldn't escape.

She collapsed onto her bed, not bothering to aim for the mattress. Her body hit the pillows with a thud, her face sinking into the downy softness. Her handmaidens' carefully applied makeup smeared, streaking across the linen as her tears flowed unchecked.

The silence that followed was oppressive, a heavy blanket that smothered her. Then, a soft knock at the door pierced the stillness. Marianne's head jerked up, her heart leaping into her throat as she saw the door creak open and her little sister poke her head through the door.

Dawn slipped inside softly closing the door. "Marianne?" she whispered, her brow furrowed in concern. Her eyes widened as she took in the sight of her older sister, her body shaking with sobs.
Dawn rushed to her side, her movements swift and sure. She sat beside Marianne on the bed, her touch gentle. She stroked Marianne's hair, her fingers combing through the tangled curls. Slowly but surely, Marianne's sobs subsided, replaced by ragged hiccups.

Minutes ticked by, each one an eternity. The only sound was Marianne's uneven breathing, the ragged pull of air into her lungs. Finally, she sat up, her body swaying with the movement. Her face was red and puffy, her eyes swollen from crying, and her makeup had been smudged and running down her face. Dawn immediately pulled her into a warm hug, her arms wrapping around Marianne like a bandage.
"I was ready to give him everything," Marianne whispered, her voice cracking. "I ignored all the signs, the times he'd vanish, his evasive answers. It took seeing him with her to realize the truth." A fresh wave of tears washed over her, and Dawn held her close, letting her cry.

"None of this is your fault," Dawn murmured, her voice trembling with suppressed anger. "Roland is the one who wronged you." She stroked Marianne's back, offering what little comfort she could. Her touch was soothing, a balm to Marianne's raw emotions.

Dawn had never been close to Roland, but she'd thought him decent enough. He'd always been so attentive to Marianne, so charming. Now, she realized his charm had been a facade, a mask for his true nature.
Hearing another knock at the door, the two girls looked up. The door opened, and their father entered. He moved with a quiet confidence, his footsteps heavy on the floor. "Marianne, the wedding…" He stopped, his words trailing off as he took in the scene before him. His older daughter was sobbing, her body wracked with grief. His youngest sat beside her, her arms wrapped around Marianne trying to soothe her. "Marianne." He said the word softly, his voice full of worry. He went to her side, sitting on the bed beside her. He stroked her back, his touch gentle.

Marianne looked up, her eyes meeting his. Then, she was in his arms, her face buried in his chest. He held her close, his arms wrapping around her like a shield. He wiped the tears from her cheeks, his touch soft. "What happened, Flower?" he asked gently, his voice full of concern. He stroked her head, his fingers combing through her curly brown hair that was once in an intricate updo but now was a tangled mess, half of her hair cascading below her shoulders. Dawn sat beside them, her eyes fixed on her sister.

Marianne took a deep breath, the air shuddering in her lungs. "I went to find Roland," she sobbed, her body shaking with grief. "I found him…" She couldn't finish, the words sticking in her throat. She took another breath, forcing herself to continue. "I found him with her," she whispered, her voice cracking. "In the fields. They were embracing." The image was burned into her mind, a branding iron that she couldn't escape. She'd dropped his sword, the metal hitting the ground with a clang. Then, she ran, her wings beating wildly as she fled the scene not caring if Roland had seen her catch him in the act. She'd flown back to the castle, her heart heavy with grief. She'd locked herself in her room, the sobs tearing at her throat.
Her father held her close, his arms tightening around her. "I'm so sorry, Marianne," he murmured, his voice full of regret. "I should have seen it sooner." He stroked her hair, his touch gentle. "We'll get through this together." He held her close, his presence a steady anchor in the storm. Marianne clung to him, her body shaking with sobs. She knew she wasn't alone, and that her family would stand by her. And with that knowledge, she found the strength to keep going, to face whatever came next.

Chapter Text

King Dagda's fury simmered, a cauldron on the brink of boiling over. He had to face the council, but how could he comprehend his daughter's heartbreak? Roland's audacity was staggering. All the praise Dagda had heaped upon him, the trust he had placed in him as a husband for beloved Marianne... it all felt like ash in his mouth. His blood seethed with the vengeance he longed to unleash. That his former general, his most loyal friend, had raised such a man filled him with disgust. What a horrific waste of potential.

As Dagda stormed into the throne room, his rage was a palpable force. The fae seated at the round table rose in unison, a silent display of respect. Among them stood an elder fae, his gaze steady. On the far side of the table, Dagda's eyes locked onto his former general, Oberon, and the bastard son who sat beside him. Roland's gaze faltered under the king's glare.

"Why did your daughter flee on her wedding day?" a council member blurted, drawing Dagda's ire.

"Let us ask the expert," the king retorted, his sarcasm venomous. "Oberon's son, care to explain?" The council's attention swiveled to Roland, who shrank under their scrutiny.

"I... I don't know what you mean," Roland stammered.

"She left you at the altar after catching you in another's arms," Dagda thundered, incredulous at the boy's temerity. "You should count yourself fortunate she only shamed you publicly, after the disrespect you showed my daughter."
Murmurs erupted from the council, their eyes fixed on Roland. Oberon's gaze bore into his son, filled with disdain.

"I am tempted to strip you of your title, expel you from the army, and banish you from our lands," Dagda growled, struggling to leash his fury. "But I still hold your father in esteem. A quality you clearly lack."
Dagda turned to Oberon as he kneeled towards him.

“My son has made a grave mistake, My king.” He motioned for Roland to do the same. Roland quickly took a knee, hanging his head in shame. “We accept whatever punishment you decide.”

“Roland, son of Oberon. You are hereby stripped of your title as general. You are now a soldier to be sent out to the elf and brownie village as a nightwatch.” Dagda announced, no one in the council objecting to this.
Dagda walked out of the meeting room before turning to face Roland one more time sneering. “I had so much faith in you. What a disappointment.”

Chapter Text

The seasons had danced their inevitable rhythm, each one a chapter in the never-ending tale of time. Spring's awakening had given way to summer's vibrant life, the flowers blooming with reckless abandon as the warmth deepened. Then, summer's fiery breath had slowly cooled, autumn's hue painting the world in shades of gold and crimson as the leaves surrendered to the gentle breeze. Autumn, in turn, had faded into winter's peaceful slumber, the creatures retreating to their cozy dens as snowflakes waltzed across the landscape, wrapping the world in a pristine blanket of white. And now, once more, spring's sweet melody had returned, a symphony of new beginnings.

A buzz of excitement rippled through the grand ballroom, the air alive with the tinkling of laughter and the lilting strains of music. The Spring Ball was a night of merry. The first festivity of the year for the faeries after a cold winter. All eyes turned to the arched entrance, a sea of faces flushed with anticipation as they awaited the arrival of the royal family. With a dignified smile, King Dagda, resplendent in his finery, led his daughter Princess Marianne into the glittering throng. Her sister Dawn followed in their wake, a vision of loveliness escorted by a dashing young knight.

Spring was a season of transformation, of shedding the old to embrace the new, and Marianne seemed to embody that spirit. Gone were the cascading curls that had once framed her heart-shaped face, replaced by a chic, stylish pixie cut that highlighted her delicate features and set off the glittering tiara perched upon her brow. Her attire was a royal gem, the indigo gown matched by silver armor at her shoulders, a glittering echo of the necklace that encircled her throat.

As they wove through the crowds of bowing courtiers and curtsying ladies, King Dagda turned to his daughter, his eyes filled with concern. "Are you quite well, my Flower?" he asked, his deep voice low and gentle. Marianne bestowed a half-smile upon him "I am perfectly fine, Father," she assured him, though her voice lacked its usual vibrancy. The king's brows furrowed, his expression worried. "I would not have you overtire yourself, my dear," he cautioned, but Marianne merely laughed, "You worry too much, Father," she teased, her eyes shining with affection. "I shall be quite well, I promise."

As the music swelled, filling the ballroom with its lively rhythm, King Dagda offered his daughter a gallant bow. "Well, May I have the pleasure of this dance, my Flower?" he asked, his smile warm and inviting. Marianne smiled gently as she placed her hand in his. "I would be honored, Father," she replied.

Together, they moved onto the dance floor, a sea of faces blurring around them as the music swept them up in its embrace. The king was a stately partner, guiding Marianne through the steps with the grace of long practice. Yet even as she laughed and spun in her father's arms, a hint of melancholy lingered in her eyes.

Roland seethed with anger, his glare hidden in the crowd of fae as he watched King Dagda and Marianne dance through the throng. Barely concealing his contempt, he turned from the merriment, creeping away into the dark night, leaving the joyful crowd to its revelry.

Humiliation burned within him, a festering wound. The elder council had shamed him, stripping him of his title of general. It was unbearable. But worst of all, his father, Oberon, still refused to speak to him. A year had passed, yet his father's gaze held only discontent. Roland was a stain on their lineage of knighthood. And it was all Marianne's fault. The mere thought of her made his blood boil with rage.

She had to have found him, had to have told everyone, just to get back at him. All the effort he had put into wooing her, gaining her favor, and it had all been for naught. She had been under his thumb, ready to give him everything, even the throne, and in an instant, it was all taken away. He scowled to himself, cursing Marianne and the entire royal family.

His gaze fell upon the fields, his night vision allowing him to see into the darkness. His eyes widened as they fell upon the primroses. He needed a love potion, and they were the key. But he was not one for stealth and subtlety. He needed someone to do his bidding, to get them for him.

With a newfound purpose, Roland made his way down the hill, traveling to the village of the elves and brownies. He had lost favor with most of the fae, but he knew there were other ways to get what he wanted. And he would stop at nothing to have his revenge.

Chapter Text

Societal distinctions between faeries and elves were well-known, particularly in terms of their physical characteristics. Faeries were described as slender, graceful beings with large wings, while elves were stocky, short, and possessed a more robust build. Elves, like Sunny, were known for their resilience in enduring harsh conditions and strenuous work. Growing up in an elven family, Sunny was aware of the disdain faeries held toward his people. He harbored some animosity towards them for their aloofness and evident arrogance. This attitude was displayed by the faerie standing in front of him.

He was truly one of the most troublesome members among them. Since he joined the Night Watch, Roland had caused problems for the elves, venting his frustrations on others, harassing and accusing those who angered him. It was unfortunate that Sunny had to encounter him that particular night.

"I have a proposition for you," Roland said, leaning towards Sunny as he blocked off his way home. The dimly lit alley was deserted, and the air was filled with tension.

"What would you even need of me?" Sunny retorted, suspicious of this man. He couldn't help but feel a shiver run down his spine as he studied Roland's intense gaze.

He knew the rumors and gossip that surrounded him: an overzealous man, the ex-fiancé to the crown princess who had been stripped of his title as general and forced to serve the elven people. Sunny was conscious not to spark his anger, but he was reluctant to hear out this offer, especially in such a secluded and eerie setting.

"I need you to get me a love potion," Roland said, with Sunny letting out an incredulous laugh in response. The request only added to the unsettling feeling that had been creeping up on him.

"A love potion?" he snorted. "The only one capable of creating one of those is imprisoned in the goblin kingdom."

"Yes," Roland confirmed.

"I'm not going into the Dark Forest to be killed by goblins. Thanks, but no thanks," Sunny retorted, trying to evade Roland before being grabbed by the collar.

"It's sneaking in and out to get the potion. Your people should be capable of doing it effortlessly," Roland seethed as he held Sunny against the wall with his feet dangling.

Sunny found himself pinned against the cold, rough stone wall, struggling to break free. "Yeah, and what's in it for me?" he demanded, his voice strained.

"Well, if you do it, once I'm king, I can grant you knighthood and a seat on the council," Roland responded, his voice smooth and calculating. "However, if not, I can have you killed and make it appear as if you were trying to break the law," he added, a devious grin creeping across his face.

This conversation harkened back to one of the discussions Marianne and Roland had when they were engaged. Marianne had expressed her desire to diversify the council, but Roland had dismissed her ideas as mere virtue-signaling. Though he had never been particularly interested in Marianne's vision, in this moment, the prospect of the crown made him consider it.

"Are you planning to overthrow the king?" Sunny asked, growing more panicked as he realized his life was on the line regardless of his decision.

"I'm simply nudging the crown princess to forgive me once more," Roland replied. "Apart from that, it's none of your concern."

Sunny mulled it over. He was in danger either way. If Roland's plan failed, he would be executed for treason, and if he refused, he might be killed there and then. He had no choice, and Roland knew it.

"Fine. I'll do it," Sunny said.

"Excellent!" Roland exclaimed, releasing Sunny and letting him drop to the ground, a triumphant smile on his face. "You have until the spring festival," he continued, walking away as Sunny looked up at him.

"But that's tomorrow night," Sunny protested.

"Well, you better get going, or it'll get messy for you," Roland sneered, before leaving Sunny in the streets of the village.

Sunny's eyes cautiously scanned the shadowy depths of the dense forest, his heart pounding in his chest. A chilling sweat trickled down his spine, intensifying the feeling of unease that gripped him. How had he become entangled in this perilous situation? He grappled with the overwhelming urge to avoid Roland, to evade him for as long as possible. But a haunting thought loomed in his mind – what if Roland decided to target his beloved family? His younger brothers and sisters were all still so innocent, so vulnerable. Sunny couldn't bear the thought of anything happening to them, especially since he knew the faeries would likely not intervene. While he held a degree of respect for the king, bitterness and resentment festered within him towards the council and the others, perturbed by their self-centered behavior.

Sunny found himself standing at the forest's edge, enveloped in the heavy, earthy scent of moss. The once vibrant primroses, essential for the love potion, laid decimated by the mischievous goblins, leaving behind nothing but barren stems. Urgency gripped Sunny as he meticulously sifted through the remnants, poring over the debris. Finally, his eyes caught a glimpse of a solitary, vivid pink petal concealed beneath a leaf. Tenderly, he clutched it to his chest, relishing the delicate softness of the petal against his skin, apprehensive that it might dissolve into thin air like a fleeting mirage.

Venturing deeper into the woodland expanse, he was bathed in the ethereal glow of the moonlight, guiding his way as he weaved through the labyrinthine trees and deftly dodged looming branches. Time was of the essence, every moment critical; one wrong move could lead to capture or something far worse. Anxiety relentlessly gnawed at him as he darted through the woods, his steps propelling him towards the ominous Goblin Kingdom, wholly unaware of the silent, vigilant gaze of the mushrooms that lined his chosen path.

Chapter Text

Deep within the heart of the impenetrable Dark Forest, surrounded by gnarled trees and twisted vegetation, loomed the ancient castle of the feared Goblin King. The castle itself was a massive tree trunk adorned with an animal skull, a grim testament to the malevolence that resided within. High in the throne room, bathed in an eerie, flickering light, sat the Bog King on his imposing wooden throne, his figure cloaked in shadow.

The arrival of spring, a time of rebirth and vitality, filled the Goblin King with simmering dread and contempt. Despite ordering his minions to eradicate the delicate Primroses that heralded the coming season, he remained unsettled by the inevitable arrival of spring, with its associations with love and new beginnings.

Lost in brooding thoughts, the Bog King was jolted from his reverie as two goblins, one resembling a toad with a lean, hunched form, and the other stocky with beady eyes, burst into the throne room. As they ascended the creaking stairs to his seat, the Bog King peered down at them with undisguised displeasure.

"Sire," the toad-like goblin named Thang croaked, barely containing his excitement, "the mushrooms have revealed that an Elf has trespassed into our domain."

"What?" The Bog King thundered, rising from his throne, his clawed hand tightening around the staff at his side. Disbelief mingled with fury as he pondered how an Elf could have penetrated the forest. They had meticulously cleared the Primroses – how was this possible?

"The Elf is reportedly making its way toward our castle," Thang hurriedly added.

"Order the others to capture the intruder," the Bog King bellowed in a seething rage, feeling a deep-seated insult at the audacity of an Elf entering his realm. "Apprehend them before they draw near."

Stuff and Thang nodded fervently, their eyes glinting with malicious intent as they departed, signaling the presence of an intruder.

Not far away, as Sunny cautiously treaded through the Dark Forest, he was suddenly assailed by shrill, chilling screams that pierced the air, setting his heart racing and his blood turning to ice. Realization struck him with a jolt – the screams were directed at him. With heavy footsteps closing in, he swiftly scanned his surroundings and darted into the hollow of a gnarled tree, straining to muffle his breath as he listened to the thundering gait of the goblins racing past.

His eyes gradually acclimated to the enveloping darkness, revealing faint shapes and contours in the dim light. To his astonishment, he realized he was not alone within the forbidding tree. Directly before him, a pair of luminous, obsidian eyes pierced through the shadows, holding him in a penetrating gaze. His heart quickened, and he instinctively clamped a hand over his mouth, torn between finding the figure eerie or strangely alluring. The palpable uncertainty of the creature's intentions kept him on edge, unsure whether it would alert others or take action against him.

Instead of making any sudden movements, the creature tilted its head, fixing its unyielding gaze on Sunny, its expression inscrutable. Their wordless communion seemed to stretch on for an eternity until Sunny gathered the resolve to break the silence.

"Um, hi? Do you happen to know the way to the Sugar Plum Fairy?" His voice barely rose above a whisper.

In response, the creature's grin widened, revealing pointed, glistening teeth. It nodded slowly, as if comprehending Sunny's plea, and gestured for him to follow as it led him out from the secluded tree hollow.

Peeking its head out cautiously, the creature scanned the surroundings for lurking dangers before motioning for Sunny to shadow its movements. With swift, yet deliberate steps, it darted closer to the distant castle, its rapid gestures underscoring the urgency of their journey. Sensing the gravity of the situation, Sunny quickened his pace, acutely aware that discovery was a risk he could ill afford.

He chased after the elusive creature, darting through the dense foliage and leaping across the rugged terrain. He navigated a maze of twists and turns, evading the lurking goblins as he raced through the heart of the forest.

Sunny abruptly halted in his tracks as his eyes fell upon the peculiar creature situated beside a hollowed-out log at the precipice of a cliff. Perplexed, he observed as the creature swiftly maneuvered the log towards the edge with astonishing strength. As the creature scurried into the log and faced the foggy chasm beyond, Sunny's brow furrowed in utter disbelief. Before he could utter a word, the creature tumbled backward, plunging into the abyss. A gasp escaped Sunny as he sprinted to the edge, peering down into the shrouded depths below.

Amidst the din of growls and gnashing teeth from the pursuing goblins, Sunny took a deep breath and then leaped into the unknown, descending through the billowing fog until he landed softly on a bed of moss. Looking up, he caught sight of the creature peering down at him, a mischievous snicker escaping its lips. Rolling his eyes, Sunny rose to his feet, finding himself now at the foot of the castle.

As he gazed upwards, he could spot the grand entrance of the castle, with the eerie skull perched above the gateway, seemingly casting its gaze downward. With a deep breath, he stealthily followed the creature alongside the castle walls, until they reached a small opening radiating with light. Sunny could only assume that it led into the castle, as the creature gestured for him to enter.

"Are you joining me?" Sunny inquired of the creature.

In response, the creature swiftly shook its head, then contorted its face into an exaggerated goblin-like expression, baring its menacing teeth at Sunny. With that, he realized he was on his own as he wriggled through the opening and ventured into the castle.

As he crept through the castle, taking care to avoid the creatures prowling outside, he finally found the entrance to the dungeon. His heart raced with anticipation as he searched for any sign of the elusive "Sugar Plum Fairy." Suddenly, a soft, ethereal blue glow caught his eye from one of the cells below. Drawing closer, he peered inside to discover a mesmerizing sight - a radiant blue orb resembling a spider's web, cradled by a sinuous, intertwining branch.

Without hesitation, Sunny lifted the cell door and descended into the dimly lit chamber, entranced by the surreal beauty of the glowing orb. Approaching it cautiously, he discerned the faint silhouette of a figure within the pulsating blue light. As his eyes adjusted, the form of a woman gradually materialized before him, bathed in an otherworldly luminescence. Her delicate features and a crown that seemed to merge seamlessly with her graceful form rendered her an ethereal vision of unearthly loveliness.

Sunny stood there, staring at the woman who appeared to be in deep slumber, her chest rising and falling with a gentle rhythm. After a fleeting moment, Sunny mustered the courage to break the silence and tentatively called out, "Hello?" As if stirred by his voice, the woman's eyes fluttered open, revealing captivating icy blue orbs that met Sunny's warm brown gaze.

"What are you doing here?" She asked, her voice tense as she scanned the area for any signs of others.
"I need a love potion," Sunny said.

"A love potion? You came down here for a love potion?" The Sugar Plum Fairy asked her brow arched as she floated closer to the web cage she was contained in.

"Yes," He confirmed.

"Got a lady you want to woo?" She cooed, grinning at Sunny as she put her hands under her chin.

"What? No." Sunny exclaimed in embarrassment, his cheeks flushing at the thought. "It's for someone else."

"Ah well. I'll do it."

"Really?"

"As long as you set me free," Sugar Plum bargained.

Sunny paused for a moment. He needed to acquire the love potion for Roland, not just for himself but for his family and his people. "Deal," he agreed.

Sugar Plum squealed with glee, her body glowing an even brighter blue. "Hand me the primrose petal," she grinned, holding her hand out.

Sunny looked confused as he examined the prison she was confined in. How was he going to give her the petal?

"You can reach in. I can't reach out," Sugar Plum explained, rolling her eyes.

Sunny stood before the intricate and foreboding web prison, feeling a surge of apprehension as he prepared to reach in. Taking a deep breath, he steeled himself and plunged his hand into the sticky, gossamer strands, each one reflecting his movements like a twisted, distorted mirror. As he navigated the treacherous webs, his heart raced with a mix of fear and anticipation.

With trembling fingers, he reached out to the faerie held captive within the web. As their fingertips made contact, a jolt of magic coursed through him, sending shivers down his spine. His eyes widened in wonder and disbelief at the enchanting exchange unfolding before him.

With a sense of relief, he slowly withdrew his hand from the web prison, watching in awe as the webs retreated and the space returned to its normal size. As he marveled at the dazzling spectacle, the faerie known as Sugar Plum couldn't contain her mirth.

"You should have seen your face," she chimed, her laughter tinkling like a cascade of bells. "Wait, I can show you!" With a mischievous twinkle in her eye, she transformed into a shimmering mirage of Sunny himself, causing him to stagger back in astonishment. Never had he imagined that he would witness such wondrous and enchanting magic from the fae.

"You haven't seen anything yet," Sugar Plum said with a proud grin as she skillfully unthreaded a petal, making it emit a soft pink glow. With a focused expression, she began to sing, her voice light and airy, drawing Sunny into a trance. He watched in wonder as she manipulated threads and beads of light that resembled dew drops.

The Bog King grimaced as he massaged his throbbing temples, the relentless headache threatening to consume him. He knew he should be out there tracking down the intruder, but the scene in front of him demanded his attention. Standing before him was a diminutive goblin with two horn stumps and a bone wreath framing her auburn hair. Her words felt like lead as she spoke, adding to the weight on his shoulders. "We need to locate the intruder, Mother," Bog insisted, struggling to contain his fury, while three suitors loomed behind her. "Others can handle it. You need someone when I'm not around," she dismissed, her words stoking his anger.

Amidst the chaos, a faint but unmistakable sound reached his ears—a soft, distant echo of melodic singing. As the suitors chattered and buzzed around him, he strained to focus on the elusive sound. "Quiet!" he urgently called out, fixating on the faint singing. "Sugar Plum," he murmured under his breath, a tinge of recognition in his tone, before dashing down into the depths of the dungeon.

The singing grew louder as he neared, abruptly stopping as he landed in the dungeon. Frantically scanning the area, his eyes widened and his teeth clenched as he beheld the empty cage, now a forsaken prison.

Stuff and Thang hurried down the stairs after him as he seethed at the faerie's disappearance. "Alert everyone of the Sugar Plum Fairy's escape!" he thundered. Stuff let out a war cry, and goblins scattered throughout the castle, desperate to locate the evasive elf and the missing Sugar Plum Fairy.

Sunny led Sugar Plum through the exit that he had snuck through while clutching to the love potion vile, a tear-shaped glass decorated in an ornate metal as the pink substance glowed dimly. Now that Sugar Plum was freed, she was the size of a regular faerie. Long and slender but he had never seen any other faerie like her. She was like stardust scattered across the sky. It was hard for him to comprehend her. Suddenly as they reached the tunnels, they could hear the howl of a goblin.

"They know I'm gone." Sugar Plum panicked as she darted back, her large eyes looking in dread.

"Stay close to me," Sunny said in a hushed voice grabbing onto her hand as they made their way through the tunnel. "We can make it." He stated optimistically.

Sugar Plum nodded nervously only letting out a sigh when they had made it back outside, away from the kingdom and into the shroud of mist. Looking up, the duo looked up, at the goblins rushing out from the castle into the forest looking for any sign of them. Even though they had made it out of the castle, they were not out of the woods yet.

"Grab on to me." Sugar Plum watching above.

"What?" Sunny asked.

"Grab on." She said as she opened her arms for him to climb into.

Sunny hesitated, unsure of what to do next. He climbed into Sugar Plum's embrace, surprised by her strength as she held him close. Despite their smaller stature, elves possessed dense muscle and were quite weighty.

"It's been ages since I've taken flight," she remarked, gazing up at the night sky. Her sapphire eyes shimmered under the moonlight as she unfurled two magnificent wings from her back. Unlike anything Sunny had ever seen, her wings resembled those of a large dragonfly, yet they emitted a mesmerizing, luminescent glow that seemed to sparkle in the moon's gentle radiance.

With a burst of energy, Sugar Plum soared into the sky, gracefully maneuvering through the dense foliage, effortlessly evading branches and brambles. Joy filled her heart as she felt the wind ruffle her headdress, a serene smile gracing her lips as she made her way out of the foreboding Dark Forest, reveling in a newfound sense of freedom. Their freedom was nearly within reach as Sunny clung to her, cradling the potion tightly in his arms.

As they raced through the Dark Forest, Sugar Plum glanced over her shoulder and gasped as she saw the furious Bog King hot on their trail. Determined to escape the prison that had held her for so long, she gritted her teeth and weaved through the trees, pushing herself to the limit to lose the relentless pursuer.

Meanwhile, the Bog King, his eyes ablaze with fury, raced after them, clutching the web prison in his hand. As he flapped his wings and growled, he extended his claw, desperate to capture Sugar Plum. But just as he was about to seize her, they burst through the trees and into the faerie lands, leaving the goblin territory far behind.

Frustrated and cursing under his breath, the Bog King watched helplessly as Sugar Plum and the elf soared away to freedom.

Chapter Text

Once they had escaped the shadow of the Dark Forest, Sugar Plum gently set Sunny down. Collapsing onto the dewy grass, she gazed up at the sky. The first hints of sunrise painted the horizon in hues of pink and gold.

"Do you know how long it's been since I've seen a sunrise?" Sugar Plum asked, her voice breathless with wonder.

Sunny chuckled, "Too long?"

Sugar Plum's laugh was music. "Too long."

Sunny’s gaze turned serious. "What will you do now?"

"I must return to my family, up north," Sugar Plum replied. Turning to Sunny, she asked, "And you? What are your plans for the potion?"

"I'll give it to its rightful owner," Sunny said, his voice filled with determination. "I hope to secure a better future for my people."

Sugar Plum's smile could light up a room. "That's an honorable goal."

Sunny shrugged, "I'm not sure about that."

Sugar Plum's expression turned curious. "That reminds me, how did you ever find me?"

"A white-furred creature helped me," Sunny explained. Sugar Plum sat up straight, her eyes wide.

"Did it have a large grin?"

Sunny nodded, "Yes, it did."

Sugar Plum's face twisted in disgust. "Ugh, an imp. Never let that little pest get its claws on the potion. They'd spread it around like a plague."

Sunny nodded, clutching the potion tightly.

Sugar Plum continued, "Well, I should start my journey home. The sooner I leave, the sooner I'll see my family. Remember, sprinkle the potion in front of the person you want to affect, and be the first one they see."

With a wave, Sugar Plum took to the skies. "Thanks again, Sunny! I hope our paths cross again!" Her voice faded into the distance as she flew away.

Sunny watched until she was nothing more than a speck on the horizon. Taking a deep breath, he steeled himself for the journey home. After the long night, all he wanted was rest.

Marianne swiftly dodged the fairy's blade as she spun around. She quickly stood up, ready to fight, her sword gleaming in the sunlight. Breathing heavily and fueled by adrenaline, she charged forward with a fierce battle cry, her sword slashing powerfully through the air. The clash of steel echoed through the clearing as the two adversaries fought, each trying to gain the upper hand.

In the past year, Marianne had not only changed her hair, but also trained her body, honing her strength and agility. With a mighty roar and a forceful shove, she managed to push the fairy back, creating a circle of space around herself.

"You're getting better, my dear. Perhaps one day, you'll surpass your old man," King Dagda chuckled, removing his helmet to reveal a sweaty face. "I was concerned when you first wanted to master sword fighting, but you've proven yourself a true warrior," Dagda said, pride shining in his eyes as he placed a hand on Marianne's shoulder. "You've got heart, and that's something no amount of training can teach."

"Father," Marianne murmured, her voice thick with emotion.

“Plus, it keeps me on my toes,” Dagda laughed, patting her on the back.

"Marianne!" a voice boomed from the hallway, growing louder. "What is it, Dawn?" Marianne called back.

"We need to get ready for the festival!" her sister exclaimed, bursting into the training room energetically.

Marianne's step faltered. "Is that today?" she asked, trying to sound nonchalant.

"Well of course it is! We love going every year," Dawn said, flying over to Marianne with excitement.

Dagda's voice was firm. "It'll be good for you, Marianne. And I'll be there. You won't have to face him at all." He spoke as if he could read her thoughts.

Marianne sighed, her shoulders sagging. "I can't avoid the elven village because of him."

"I'll be with you too!" Dawn said, crossing her arms and glaring at the thought of Roland. "If he comes up to you, I'll give him a piece of my mind," she exclaimed, punching the air. Marianne laughed in return. "Come on now! Let's go get ready," Dawn said, grabbing Marianne's hand and pulling her away to get ready.

Elven melodies, as sweet as honey, wove through the air, mingling with the tinkling laughter of children. Sparklers, tiny stars in small hands, painted the festival in strokes of magical light. The scent of fried delicacies and sugary treats danced on the breeze, intertwining with the earthy perfume of the forest. At the heart of the celebration, the stage pulsed with life, a vibrant rhythm that beckoned all to join in its joy. Elven musicians sang with wild abandon, their voices soaring on the wings of pure exhilaration. Villagers spun and leaped across the grass, their footsteps weaving a spontaneous dance with the music, lost in the magic of the moment.

This was no stiff, formal Spring Ball. This festival was a raw, unbridled celebration of joy, a time to shed inhibitions and let the heart soar. Dawn, a vision of ethereal beauty, twirled through the crowd, her pink wings glimmering like rose quartz in the fading light. Her bright blue robe fluttered behind her, a shimmering river of color that caught flashes of light from the sparklers. Lost in the enchantment of the music, her laughter rang out, a joyful sound that added to the festival's magic. She was a faerie unleashed, dancing with the abandon of a wildflower swaying in the breeze.

Across the festival, Sunny's gaze snagged on the fairy princess, his heart skipping a beat. Her honey-blonde hair shone like liquid sunlight, and her dance was a mesmerizing whirl of color and grace, a spectacle that drew the eye and captured the heart. Transfixed, he stood frozen, his pulse pounding in his chest, until a voice shattered the spell that had been woven around him.

"Looks like you've got eyes for the little one, eh?" Roland's laughter was like a rusty gate, jarring and out of place amidst the music and laughter. Sunny's cheeks flushed as he looked up at the knight, his eyes narrowing at the knowing glint in the other man's eye. Roland's grin was a mocking curve of the lips, a smile that held no genuine warmth or joy.

The two of them ducked into a shadowy alley, the music and laughter muffled, a distant memory. "You have it, then?" Roland's voice was low, his eyes glinting with anticipation, his gaze fixed on Sunny's sack. Sunny nodded, his hand fumbling in the depths of the canvas, his heart pounding in his chest. He pulled out the potion, the glass vial glimmering in the dim light, a tiny, tantalizing promise. Roland snatched it, tucking it away in his armor with a satisfied chuckle, a sound that grated on Sunny's nerves.

"You won't regret this, boy," he said, clapping Sunny on the shoulder, his touch heavy and unwelcome. "Maybe if there's any left, you can have the little one." His laughter echoed off the alley walls as he strode away, leaving Sunny alone in the shadows, a sinking feeling in his stomach. Had he just made a terrible mistake? Had he bartered away his chance at happiness for a fleeting promise? What other choice did he have, though? He was just a poor elf, with little to offer a faerie princess.

Forcing a smile, he pushed his doubts aside, squaring his shoulders. He had made his choice, and now he had to live with it. He rejoined the festival, the music wrapping around him, pulling him into its rhythm. Before he knew it, he was spinning across the grass hand in hand with the young faerie, Dawn's laughter ringing in his ears, a joyful sound that was like music to his soul. She was a whirlwind of color and light, her beauty shining like the sun, a radiant star that drew him in. Unlike the ageless, ethereal Sugar Plum Fairies, Dawn was vibrant and youthful, a blooming flower in the midst of winter's thaw, a breath of fresh air. Sunny lost himself in the dance, his heart soaring with a joy he'd never known, a happiness that filled him to the brim.

Nearby, Marianne watched her sister with a warm smile, a rare sight, Dawn unencumbered by the chains of etiquette and formality. She was just another girl, lost in the magic of the festival, a faerie unleashed. Marianne's smile faltered as a voice cut through her thoughts, a rough, jarring sound.

"Care to dance, buttercup?" She turned, her heart sinking at the sight of Roland, his smile a twisted mockery of its usual self. "You have quite the nerve, showing your face here," she spat, her voice venomous, a sharp blade.

He chuckled, the sound like gravel, a harsh, grating noise. "Oh, but you wound me, my dear. I know you've missed me. You just don't realize it yet." His hand dipped into his armor, and Marianne's heart skipped a beat as he pulled out a small vial, the glass glimmering in the fading light. The music died, the crowd falling silent as they stared at the stage, a hush falling over the festival. It was no longer filled with musicians, but with goblins, their eyes glinting with malice, their presence a dark stain on the celebration.

Screams ran out, Marianne pushing Roland to the side as she rushed towards her sister, her heart pounding in her chest. Dawn screamed as she was snatched by one of the goblins, held in place as she had just been dancing just a moment again, her laughter and joy replaced with fear. Roland tried to chase after Marianne, the love potion in his hand before being ambushed by the imp, its claws grabbing the potion and swinging over onto the treetops, a tiny, taunting shape.

“Hey!” Roland yelled out after the potion running off amidst the chaos, Sunny seeing the scene unfold in front of him his breath hitched. His heart pounded in his chest, a heavy, thudding sound.

“Dawn!” Marianne screamed out weaving through the crowds as they ran the other way before hearing the flapping of wings. Her voice was a desperate sound, a cry for help.

Landing on the stage, multiple goblins growled before the last one, the tall and daunting figure of the Goblin King landed, his staff scraping on the wooden stage. He was a dark shape, a presence that drew the eye, his malice and fury a palpable thing. “You’ve stolen something of mine.” He screamed out, his voice a harsh, jarring sound, a blade that cut through the air.

“What is the meaning of this?” Dagda demanded as he looked up at the goblins, his voice a low rumble. “You disrupt our people's festivities and throw out accusations.” His presence was a steady thing, a rock amidst the chaos.

“One of your people broke into my kingdom and took one of my prisoners and what was rightfully mine.” The Bog King spat back his claws drawn, a sharp, deadly sound. “Where is the Sugar Plum Fairy?” He snarled, his gaze fixed on Dagda, a challenge.

“She’s gone.” Sunny admitted stepping forward, his voice a steady sound. “She went back up north.” He met the Goblin King's gaze, his heart pounding in his chest, a heavy, thudding sound.

The Bog King looked down at the elf fury bubbling as he walked forward looking down. “You, you were the one who broke her out. I remember you.” He seethed his accent heavy and his voice low, Sunny’s heart quickening as he stood face to face with the Goblin King. “She’s long gone from here.” Sunny replied honestly looking up, not backing down from the Bog King.

“And where’s the love potion that you had her make.” The Bog King asked towering over the elf. His presence was a dark thing, a shadow that loomed over Sunny.

“It’s gone.” He stuttered recounting the scene with the imp. His voice was a shaky thing, a leaf in the wind.

“Take this elf and faerie over there.” The Bog King yelled pointing towards Sunny and Dawn. His voice was a harsh, jarring sound, a blade that cut through the air.

“No!” Dagda called out helplessly. His voice was a desperate sound, a cry of denial.

“You bring back the love potion or I keep her.” The Bog King commanded. His voice was a hard, unyielding thing, a rock that would not be swayed.

“Let her go!” Marianne called out sprinting towards the Bog King, grabbing the sword from Dagda’s sheath before he could say anything. Bog raised his staff defending himself from the fury-stricken faerie as she put all of her strength into the swing. Surprised by the strength coming from this young faerie, he looked up at Marianne, her brown eyes filled with anger. He pushed her off of him before Marianne had been hit on the side of the head by one of his Goblins, falling to the ground unconscious. Dagda ran to the side of Marianne, as she laid on the ground. His presence was a steady thing, a rock amidst the chaos.

“You heard my terms, the potion by sunrise or I keep her.” The Bog King announced ignoring the ping of guilt he felt seeing the unconscious fairy held by King Dagda turning away as they carried Dawn and Sunny off. Dagda watched helplessly as he watched the Goblins slink away with his daughter and Sunny while he held Marianne in his arms.

Chapter Text

Marianne's eyes fluttered open, her head throbbing and her ears ringing. She wasn't surrounded by the twinkling lights of the elven festival anymore; she was back in her bedchamber, the familiar stone walls spinning. Memories of the ambush came flooding back - the snarls of the goblins, the feeling of Dawn being ripped from her, the Bog King’s face as she had tried to attack him.

With a cry of rage, Marianne threw off the covers and leaped out of bed, not noticing the blankets pool around her ankles like a fallen cloud. She sprinted for the door, flinging it open and racing down the corridor towards the throne room. Her heart pounded in her chest, each beat echoing in her ears. She had to find Father, had to tell him what happened...

"Da!" she screeched, bursting through the heavy wooden doors and into the grand throne room. Her father, the mighty Dagda, looked up from the war table where he sat surrounded by the council of faeries. His eyes widened as Marianne tore towards him, her face streaked with tears. "They took Dawn!" she wailed, falling to her knees beside him. "The goblins, they ambushed us at the festival...I couldn't stop them, I couldn't-"

"Marianne, child, we're planning our counterattack even now," Dagda tried to soothe, his large hand coming down on her shoulder. But Marianne shook him off, her gaze blazing with determination.

"There's no time for planning! We have to go, we have to get her back!" She could hardly see through tears streaming down her face, but she could feel the weight of the council's stares upon her. She knew they would only want to negotiate, to bargain for Dawn's safe return. But Marianne knew the goblins - they would drag her sister through the very depths of the Dark Forest first...

"Come, Marianne," Dagda murmured, rising and drawing her to her feet. He guided her from the room, his strong arm around her shoulders as he shielded her from the prying eyes and wagging tongues of the council. Once they were alone in the corridor, he turned to her, his face lined with worry. "Flower, without the council's backing, any action we take risks sparking a war that could devastate our entire realm...and likely get Dawn killed in the process."

"Let me go," Marianne begged, clutching at his tunic. "I can get her back, I know I can. I saw how they fought - they were sloppy and uncoordinated. If they hadn't taken us by surprise, I could have held them off until reinforcements arrived..."

Dagda's brows furrowed, his jaw working as he stared down at her. "I cannot lose you too," he whispered, his voice cracking.

"You won't," Marianne promised, going up on tiptoe to wrap her arms around his neck. She hugged him tightly, trying to convey all her determination and conviction. "I'll bring her home, Father. I swear it."

After a long moment, Dagda nodded, his eyes welling up. "I'll stall the council as long as I can," he rasped. "But you must be careful, do you understand? The goblins are not to be trifled with...they have no mercy."

"I will, I will," Marianne promised, pulling back to meet his gaze. "I love you, Da."

"And I you, my little flower," he replied, his voice full of emotion. He kissed her forehead, then Marianne turned and raced off down the corridor, leaving her stunned father behind.

Her mind raced as she ran, a plan already forming. She knew she had to move fast before the council realized what she was about. She sprinted for the guard barracks, her heart pounding in her ears. She knew the castle's layout better than anyone - all those years of exploring were about to pay off...

Slipping inside the dimly lit barracks, Marianne made a beeline for the armory. She flung open the doors and strode inside, her eyes scanning the racks of weapons and armor. She grabbed a pair of leather gauntlets, strapping them to her forearms to protect her skin and provide grip. Next, she buckled on a swordbelt, the weight of the longsword at her hip a comforting presence. A quiver full of arrows followed, settling at her opposite hip and a short bow to string across her back. She finished with a guard's helmet, tugging it low over her face to conceal her features and identity.

A guard's cloak hung on a hook by the door - Marianne snagged it, swirling the heavy green wool around her shoulders. It fell to her ankles, the silver clasp at her throat glinting in the torchlight. Beneath it, she wore a white linen shirt, the sleeves loose and billowy, along with a pair of dark green breeches and knee-high leather boots, perfect for riding or long marches. A wide leather belt cinched at her waist, holding everything securely in place.
But before she could exit the armory, Marianne realized she still had to conceal her wings. Guards didn't have shimmering purple wings, after all...With a flicker of concentration, she felt her wings fold flat against her back, then a strange sensation as they seemed to blur and fade into her skin. It was an old trick all faeries learned young, but it still felt odd to her. She tugged the cloak around her, making sure it fully covered her back. Now, she was ready...
Marianne strode back out into the night. She kept to the shadows, her heart pounding as she made for the castle gates. She knew the guards would be looking for a lone faerie lass, not one of their own...

Breathing a sigh of relief as she slipped past the guards and out into the cool night air, Marianne broke into a sprint. The castle fell away behind her as she tore across the moonlit fields, the grass whipping at her legs. The trees of
the Dark Forest loomed ahead, their branches creaking ominously in the wind. Marianne felt a shiver run down her spine, but she didn't slow. She had to get to Dawn, no matter what horrors the forest held...

With a burst of speed, Marianne launched herself into the air, her purple wings exploding from her back to catch the moonlight. She soared over the treetops, her eyes scanning the gloom below for any sign of goblin torches. She knew she had to move fast - the longer she waited, the closer the dawn would come and her sister would be lost to the goblins.

Dawn sat in the cage, uncertain of her fate. Her once-blue robes were now dirty and torn from being dragged through the forest, with twigs sticking out of her honey-blonde hair. She had only caught glimpses of the Bog King since her capture. Across from her, the Elf who had caused all of this was stuck in the same cage. Dawn was clueless about his involvement, but she felt the urge to investigate further.

"Did you break in here?" Dawn asked. Sunny looked up, startled.

"Yeah," he answered, his head hanging in shame.

“Why? Why would you break the Sugar Plum Fairy out for a love potion?” she inquired. She knew what it was like to have a crush, but a love potion? That was taking the other party’s choice out of it. It felt like a pit in her stomach.

"It wasn't for me," Sunny chuckled with disdain. "It was for that bastard Roland."

Dawn's expression turned sour at the mention of Roland.

"He threatened me to get the potion," Sunny explained to Dawn, knowing that he couldn't justify himself. "If there's one thing he knows how to do, it's getting others to do his dirty work."

"Absolute power-hungry snake," Dawn seethed, Sunny was surprised to see the doe-eyed faerie red in the face. "He wants to use it on Marianne," she screamed, realizing his plan.

Dawn stood up, walking to the cage, her grip deathly tight on the bars that held her and Sunny.

"Let us out!" she screamed. "We need to talk to the king!" She begged, but her words were unheard by the goblins as they ignored her.

For what felt like a lifetime, no one paid attention to her pleas as she called out for anyone to hear her. It was just Sunny and her alone in the prison.

"We need to get out of here," Dawn said, shaking at the bars, her calm demeanor now gone.

"Well, maybe yelling and drawing attention isn't the best way to get out of here," Sunny smirked as he walked past Dawn, inspecting the lock to the cage.

“What do you mean?” Dawn asked curiously, looking at Sunny as he pulled a long pair of metal picks out from under the hat he wore.

“Sometimes, you just need to take the back way out,” Sunny said, focusing on pick locking the door. The click of the door made him smirk as he swung it open.

“Why didn’t you do that sooner?” Dawn stuttered, frustrated by all the time they wasted.

“Well, I needed to make sure no one would be coming in or out so we could sneak out,” Sunny chuckled. “Your Majesty,” He bowed, signaling Dawn to exit first.

“You can just call me Dawn,” she retorted, exiting the cage.

"Dawn, what a beautiful name," Sunny complimented, causing a faint blush to appear on Dawn's cheeks.

“It’s an old family name, and you?” Dawn asked, looking down at the elf who had let them out.

"Sunny isn't a family name, but I was born on a sunny day," Sunny chuckled softly as he guided them out of the dungeon, where they would go unnoticed.