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 Posted: Fri Apr 18, 2025 11:09 am
Characters: Alastair + Atropia
Prompt: The night it happened, Atropia was never the same, and we see exactly how far Alastair will go for his sister.
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Posted: Mon Apr 28, 2025 8:35 pm
  
Alastair had been made to do a lot more training when it came to taking over the throne. He was always told that he's almost 18, so it's time to lock in and learn what was needed but he always put up a fight. This was nothing new and the past week he had relented because of what had been happening with his parents, but it didn't mean that he wanted to do it. Giving in was hard and after a long week of dealing with annoying tutors and listening to how the family business had to do with ruling the throne. He honestly just wanted to pass that part off because having to keep his cool when faced with arrogant nobles and other royals was not his strong suit enough as it was. He was sitting in the library, tapping his foot against the ground to the displeasure of the woman at the board as she lectured him on how he should react to some situation or another. He recalled that this woman was able to shake off his sister's charms even from when they were younger so part of him didn't even want to deal with fighting it. However, this day he was more annoyed than usual. His eyes taking on a slight glow he breathed out in annoyance and the woman talking seemed to be able to notice the green tint forming in the air. She waved her hand in front of him as it dissipated, and he widened his eyes out of surprise. Wait, when was he doing that? Shaking her head as she tapped the top of his head with the stick she was using to point at things with, his eyes narrowed up at her. " You're dismissed. Go work off some of that energy."
She didn't have to tell him twice.
He knew she'd have him back there probably within the day or two, so he pushed back from the chair and ran a hand through his hair as he shoved his other hand into his pocket and walked out of the library without another word. The prince wasn't interested in talking to anyone nor was he interested in dealing with anything political at the moment. So, he grabbed the nearest guard that he trained with before and pulled his coat off, hanging it on a nearby branch. Words weren't needed as this was one of the few people who he was able to go almost all out with, and he slid his foot back as he got into position. After roughly an hour of training Alastair had landed the man flat on his back, his foot pressed against his throat when another guard ran up. His eyes snapped up as he heard the words that were said, and they began to widen as he realized what they meant. Being outside in the courtyard he spun his head around and realized how late it was. " Go find her!" he snapped, although he did take a moment to help the man off the ground before he grabbed his coat and stalked off towards the throne room. Atropia wasn't home yet. He knew she had gone out, although he hadn't announced it to anyone because he would be a hypocrite if he did. Now? Now there was a problem. It was getting dark, and she wasn't back yet.
Throwing open the doors he pushed past the guards and up to his father who glared at him and as usual Alastair wasn't fazed. He had long since gotten used to being looked at like that because he wasn't fond of doing what he was told to do anyway. He didn't go up to the platform, but he stopped at the foot of it. " We have a problem." he said, getting an eyebrow raise out of his father who waved off the counsel he was with. " And what would that be?" was the reply, leaning back against the throne he sat in. His father didn't seem to be taking him seriously, but he was used to that. " Atropia left the grounds earlier and she's not back. I sent people off to find her but-" he cut himself off as his father slammed a hand down on the armrest and stood. Oh, now he looked mad. " And when were you going to tell me!? Why didn't you stop her?" Alastair rolled his eyes before crossing his arms and looking to the side. " Where was she going?" his tone was icy, although Alastair knew their father was worried the man had a funny way of showing it. " I don't know, I didn't ask. Just told her to be back by dark." he growled, before turning and waving one hand in exasperation. " It doesn't matter, I'm going to go look for her."
While part of him didn't want to tell their father, what if something serious happened? He didn't want to think about her being hurt when he should have gone out with her in the first place. If he wasn't choosing to be a good son this week this would never have happened! He was about to turn and walk back out when the door opened to the throne room and both he and his father looked to it. A guard was there, panting as if he had just run. " We found the princess, she's-" the other door pushed open as the guard that Alastair had been sparring with walked in with her. The prince's eyes widened, she had gotten herself fixed up, but it didn't take a genius to realize something had happened. He was frozen, what happened? Who dared? It was their father who spoke first, for once a hint of concern broke through for a split second before he defaulted back to his usual tone. " What happened?"
Alastair let his hands drop to his sides as his hands tightened into fists and he cursed himself in his head. He should never have let her go on her own! Pulling his jacket off he walked up to her and wrapped it around her shoulders. He kept a hand on the back of her shoulder, his eyes not leaving her as he waited to hear what she said.
WHO WITH: His Parents, Guards
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FEELING: Furious
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WHERE AT: Corthyr, Castle - Throne Room
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WEARING: All Black, Minus the mask and gloves.
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OUT of CHARACTER: ...
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Posted: Tue Apr 29, 2025 10:53 am
 
“Perfect.” Atropia smiled brightly, proud of what she had just created. The smaller, 12x10 canvas that was being held straight out in front of her showed a charcoal sketch of a woman smiling elegantly back to the viewer. The princess had been working on this piece for a few nights after her studies, and finally, it was completed and ready to be presented to the woman who inspired it. Pia leaned the canvas against the wall while she changed into a more casual look for the rest of the day-- since she was planning on staying on the palace grounds. Albeit casual to her was not casual for most. She still went out of her way to dress nicely, especially because she was meeting with her mother, the Queen.
The large wooden doors creaked open as the guards let Atropia into her mother’s living quarters. Lately, she had been of low energy, so Pia thought she might be able to cheer her up with a personal art piece. To her surprise, though, when she entered, she noticed two other people standing by her mother, who was sitting up in her bed. As soon as she wandered in, Phthisis turned her head with a graceful smile, waving away the others, “My sweet daughter, please… come in.” Atropia nodded slowly and gripped the canvas tightly, eyeing the two men as they left the room. The one who stood out to her was in a long white coat, holding a large briefcase. He wore small spectacles on his face that made his eyes look larger than they should be. To her, he looked like a doctor. But why would a doctor be in her mothers room?
Atropia sat on the edge of her mothers bed, continuing the hold her gaze on the door as the stranger disappeared into the hall. “Who were they?” She should have greeted her mother first, but the question slipped out before she could think. Phthisis’ gentle laughter filled the room, then Pia felt her hand against her face, eventually brushing her hair to the side just behind her ear. “Nothing for you to be concerned about, my dear.” Atropia shifted until she was looking back at her mother, who looked… tired. “What is that in your hand? Is that for me?” For a moment, the princess sat unmoving, just staring blankly at the other woman. She wanted to push her for more information. But instead, she lowered the canvas to show her mother the portrait, swallowing dryly like her mouth was filling with cotton. “It’s you.” Her eyes landed on the piece. “Do you like it?” Atropia was always seeking approval; this was nothing new. So when Phthisis responded with a gasp, her eyes shot open. Was that a happy gasp?
Thankfully. It was.
Her mother took the portrait into her hands and held it up to the warm light coming from the setting sun, “It is beautiful, Atropia. Just beautiful.” Phthisis had always been kind, but was still strict, and she rarely gave her approval. In fact, it was so rare that this reaction had Pia even more worried about why there may have been a doctor in a few moments ago. Atropia let out a long sigh, at least it was doing exactly what she had hoped it would do, which was cheering her mother up. At least, until Atropia watched her mothers smile fade, until it was no longer a happy smile. In its place was a tight lip and a worried brow. Then she felt her mothers hand on her arm, and with that, Atropia found out that she wouldn’t have to ask what the two men were doing. Phthisis would tell her.
She felt like the undead as she mindlessly walked through the halls until she made it outside later that evening, a few hours after her conversation with her mother. Out of it to the point she barely remembered telling Alastair she was going out. Atropia found herself sitting outside the palace on large stone steps that led to the front entrance of the building. Her gaze was distant as she stared out toward the walls that led to town. A guard stood nearby, keeping a close eye on her. It must have seemed as if she was planning on sneaking off.
Then, just like that, an idea made its way into her head. Maybe she should. Her green eyes fell onto the guard as she stood to make her way over to him, “Sir, I seem to have lost track of my maid. Do you mind finding her for me?” Her voice purred as she spoke to him; it was easy for her, manipulation, it always had been. He needed to be gone, and just as she expected, without any hesitation, the guard did as he was told and left to find the “missing maid.” As soon as he faded into the palace, Atropia went off, casually waving to the confused groundskeeper on her way.
The stableboys conversed loudly, which is how Pia learned of the tavern in town. It was old yet popular. By the end of the workday, the townsfolk would spend the whole night dancing and drinking. It was exactly what she needed. Right now, all she could think about was how cruel the world was for making her mother ill. Her prognosis was not great. Although it was not yet a death sentence, it was not out of the realm of possibility. It did not take long for the princess to find a seat at the bar, thanks to the many consumers who moved to give up their stools. There were eyes on her; she figured news of this would get back to her father eventually, but she really did not care.
By the end of the night, rosy-cheeked Pia finally noticed the pub had cleared out. Only herself, the bartender, and two men remained. The same two men who had been dancing with her and buying her liquor throughout the night. They had been kind to her, so when they offered to take her back to the palace, she smiled and accepted.
When she tasted stale cigarettes and ale, through blurred vision and sudden strength, Atropia pushed the man away from her. Where was she? What time was it? Her eyes snapped to the side as she heard someone else run off. Next came a burning smell that filled the space, one she knew she would never forget. Pia leaned over, disoriented and confused, and grabbed what she believed were her clothes and ran, as quickly as she could, back to the palace.
Before she knew it, she was grabbed by someone huge, so she struggled, pushing and kicking, and was about to scream until she realized he was wearing armor. She recognized him as the guard who would spar with her brother. He helped her get somewhat dressed into the clothes that were in her arms. Unfortunately, it was not all of them since the rest had been missing. He then looked at her intensely, “We have been looking all over for you.” By the time they made it to the throne room, Atropia had somewhat sobered up. However, now she felt all kinds of nauseous.
“ What happened?”
Her gaze lifted after a second, only when she felt Alastair wrap his jacket around her, “It was nothing.” She swallowed, “I went out, just to clear my head and fell.” Pia rolled her lips, avoiding her brothers gaze, knowing she could not lie to him, “I must have fallen or something… passed out.“ She shakily pressed her hand against her forehead and looked down; her head was throbbing. But it wasn’t from falling, it was the alcohol wearing off. She could feel her father staring down at her. “I’d just really like to go to bed now.” Now her voice was shaking, the reality of the situation sinking in. Had she killed that man? Her gaze shifted to her torn clothing, and she held her breath. Suddenly, the nausea that had once steadily sat in her stomach decided to come out. Pia shoved away from the guard quickly and found the nearest vase to throw up in. She stared into the dark abyss of the vase, doing her best to steady herself, then leaned on the wall, her eyes finally fixating on her brother. It was then she remembered the second man, who was still out there.
“Take your sister to her room, Alastair. We will talk in the morning.”
OOC: N/A Location: Company: Mother | Father | Guards | Alastair Outfit: Wearing
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Posted: Sun May 04, 2025 6:08 pm
Alastair could smell the alcohol rolling off her in waves. What had she been doing? He noted that she wouldn't even look up at him, although she didn't object to his touch when he draped his jacket over her shoulders. He narrowed his eyes; her movements were familiar with when he saw drunkards out in town. ' Oh Pia, what happened...?' he thought to himself, his grip on her shoulder tightening slightly. It was possible that she fell, he hadn't been there. But something was nagging at him that something else had happened. Something she didn't want their father to know. When she suddenly pushed off and threw it up it only solidified his concerns. His eyes flashed back up to their father as he issued his order and flexing his hands for a moment he decided to play obedient son, if not for the sake of his sister. " Of course, father." he couldn't help but throw a little dig in there, before he turned his back to their father and placed his hand on her upper back gently. Only when he was with his sister did the palace staff generally see him be gentle although in the moment the others in the room were tense. " Pia, come on. We'll get you laying down." he said softly before he wrapped his arm around her shoulders and pulled her against him. " Lean on me." he again spoke quietly, ignoring the pointed looks his father was giving him. His father wasn't the main concern right now, Atropia was.
The usually quick walk to her room took longer than he had imagined it would. He sent the guard on ahead to make sure the door was open for when they got there and directed him to stand outside the door afterwards. He kept an arm around his sister, making eye contact with her usual maid as she came out of a side door. The concern that flashed across her features overshadowed the usual fear that most of the staff had for him. " We need to get her a little cleaned up, can you do that?" he knew better than to come off abrasive when his sister was in this state although his eyes silently threatened the maid. Tell anyone and you're dead. After the woman scurried off to get what was needed, he got Atropia to sit on the side of her bed, pushing her hair back out of her face as he crouched in front of her. Worry seeped into his gaze as he gently made her look at him. " I'll let you get cleaned up, then we need to talk about what happened." he wouldn't make her spill everything, but her torn clothes and how she was when she arrived made his blood boil. He gave her a strained smile, despite being as angry as he was, he was glad she made it back to the castle in one piece. He stood, stepping back as the maid who usually took care of her came in and he stepped out of the room, closing the door behind him. He stood there, arms crossed and tapping his fingers on his arm, shooting the guard a look. " Was she alone?" he asked lowly, so that Atropia didn't hear him. The other man hesitated before looking down at him. " Yes but she was not in good shape."
That alone was enough to send him into a rage, and he gripped his arm tighter to keep himself maintained. He had to find out what happened first, and then what needed to be done. His eyes glowed slightly due to his high running emotions, and he closed them, focusing on calming down. He would not scare her even more after whatever she had been through.
He didn't know how long it had been, but he heard a voice, and the door creaked open. Turning he met the woman's eyes before she stepped aside for him to go back in. He walked up next to her bed, sitting on the very edge. " Pia, what happened? I knew I should have gone with you. If I did maybe this wouldn't have happened." tightening his hand against his pants, he pressed his other hand gently over one of hers. He wouldn't push her but he needed to know what happened to her.
WHO WITH: His Parents, Guards -- Atropia
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FEELING: Furious
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WHERE AT: Corthyr, Castle - Throne Room -- Atropia's room
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WEARING: All Black, Minus the mask, jacket and gloves.
x
OUT of CHARACTER: ...
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Posted: Tue May 13, 2025 9:34 am
Her father's voice cut through the roar of blood in her ears, but she didn’t respond. She didn’t move. Frozen, lost in thought, her stomach churned with nausea. Then suddenly, a hand touched her back. She flinched instinctively, nearly knocking over the vase. Fear surged through her like a current. She reached out to shove the intruder away—only realizing it was her brother when her hand met his chest.
“Pia, come on. Let’s get you lying down.”
She turned her gaze to him, guilt instantly washing over her. She'd almost hit him. Her voice barely rose above a whisper. “Sorry.” Alastair didn’t seem to mind. He gently urged her to lean on him, and she did—too weak to resist. She couldn’t bring herself to look at their father, afraid of what she’d see. Disgust? Disappointment? Anger?
Probably all three.
Her green eyes followed the guard Alastair had called over—the same one who had found her. As she took in her appearance, shame wrapped around her like a second skin. Her clothes were torn, dirty, incomplete. The most important garments were missing. Her hand came up to her chest, now bare beneath the thin remains of her dress. She swallowed hard. Did the other man have her clothes? Was he bragging about it? …Or was he terrified?
She barely noticed her maid waiting by the door, though she caught a quick look exchanged between her and Alastair. Judgment, no doubt. That wouldn’t surprise her. Her bed felt wrong. Everything did. She stared blankly at the floor until Alastair gently pushed some of her hair back and lifted her chin. His eyes met hers, intense. It reminded her of the look he’d had years ago, when those men had tried to kidnap them—only this time, it was different. She couldn’t explain how. She gave a small, hesitant nod.
The maid—Charlotte, the one she trusted most—hurried to her side and took her hand. Later, Pia sat curled in a warm bath, knees pulled tightly to her chest. The water should’ve been soothing, but she felt nothing. Charlotte rose from her stool beside the tub, drawing Pia’s attention. “Where are you going?” The question came out desperate.
“I need to report to your brother. I’ll return soon.”
A younger maid stepped in as she left. Pia didn’t protest. Before she realized it, she was clean, dressed, and back in bed. Everything had become a blur. She remained in the same curled position she’d held in the tub. It was the only thing that felt safe. The alcohol had mostly worn off, though she’d feel the aftermath in the morning. Her head dropped between her knees, fists clenched in the bedsheets.
She was such an idiot.
When the door creaked open, her head snapped up, heart racing. Relief washed over her when she saw it was only Alastair. Still, she couldn’t meet his eyes. Shame weighed too heavily on her chest. “Alastair, this isn’t your fault.” She forced herself to look at him, her voice shaky but serious. “I messed up.” She hadn’t cried—not yet—but her words trembled. Her lips pressed into a thin line as she turned away again, stomach twisting. His hand found hers—warm, familiar, grounding. She didn’t know how to tell him. She could barely admit it to herself. Two voices warred in her mind: one begging her to stay silent, the other urging her to speak.
Finally, she chose.
“I went out,” she began. That much was obvious. “I met these two guys. They were buying drinks, and I guess… I just had too much.” Her voice shrank with every word. “I know. I know I’m stupid. I should’ve known better. But… mom is sick, I…” She gripped his hand tighter, unable to finish a sentence. A thin layer of tears began to form in her eyes. She let go of him and wiped them away before they could fall. “They offered to walk me home. It was dark—I don’t remember.” Her chest tightened. The air around her felt thin. She struggled to breathe.
Pia stared at the bedsheets. “I killed him.” Her hand flew to her mouth as the memory slithered back. The taste. The smell. It made her stomach lurch. “He… he was on me and—” The rest caught in her throat. “His mouth… his skin… it just melted. Dripped off his bones.” She turned ghostly pale as the image of his slow, liquefying death filled her mind. She didn’t yet understand her powers. This was the first time they had revealed themselves.
Eyes wide, she looked up at her brother. “The other one left. I don’t know where he went. I just… I just ran away.”
OOC: N/A Location: Throne room | Pia's room Company: Father - > Alastair | Maids | Guard Outfit: Torn clothing - > PJs
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Posted: Mon Jun 16, 2025 7:04 pm
Alastair didn't know what he was going to hear when he went into see his sister but, he wasn't an idiot. She didn't have her undergarments on and the fact that she was torn up the way she was made him think of only one thing. He had been worried about her as it was, and when she hadn't returned at the time she usually did it made him even more worried.
As he stood outside of her room waiting impatiently, he tried hard to keep his mind from running for what he could do to the people responsible for her state because he knew if he started to think about it, he'd start to breathe out the toxin that he did when he was feeling strong emotions. He had sat on the side of her bed and waited patiently once he was in the room. His sister looked so... small. He frowned, her presence was dimmed compared to how she usually lit the room up and he could already tell that a slight rim of his eyes was turning brighter. He didn't have much in this world and it seemed so determined to take what he did have away from him. Well, he wouldn't allow it. It took all of his not-so-trained patience to not let himself tighten his grip on her hand as she looked at him for a moment. Her eyes were puffy and red, as if she had been stressed or crying. He wasn't sure which was worse. The way her words shook made his eyes narrow for a moment before he forced himself to focus his expression. This was not the time to let himself get overwhelmed, not when his sister needed him. He didn't say anything until she stopped speaking and had to wipe her eyes, the tears that so desperately needed to be shed pushed to the side. " You're not stupid. Whoever these men were, for thinking they could mess with you and get away with it." he meant it too, there was one or two people he had to rely on, one being his little sister and the other his mother. Sure, he wasn't too open with his mother but even he was affected by her illness, and it made him tense his jaw slightly at the thought of it.
Her next words however brought the anger he had tried to keep so carefully leashed to the surface. She didn't remember. That both meant they had likely taken advantage of her and knew what they were doing. That alone sealed their fates for what he knew he had to do. If not for the crown and showing that they weren't to be messed with, but for his sister. In fact, mostly for his sister. He knew his eyes flashed and he gritted his teeth as he looked towards the foot of her bed. " Bastards." he muttered coldly under his breath, he wasn't about to make her explain any further than that. When she continued on, he felt his breath catching. ' She killed them?' he turned his gaze back to her and while he still had the expression locked in his eyes of anger they were softened greatly as he watched her even if she didn't look at him. Her powers manifested. He was both grateful her powers came when they did and equally annoyed that he wasn't there with her. " Don't you worry about him, I'll find him. He'll be dealt with accordingly." his words held a promise, one that he wouldn't be voicing but the determination in his gaze showed through. He took her hand again before pausing and exhaling, doing the one thing he wasn't comfortable doing with most people.
Shifting on the bed he faced her a little more, pulling her in against himself as he wrapped both of his arms around her and held her tight but not too tightly. " I'm proud of you, you got out of the situation, and you were able to protect yourself. You're not responsible for what happened to him, he brought all of this on himself." Alastair frowned before leaning his chin gently on her head, breathing out away from her as the air tinted green again. He was managing to maintain a control while he needed to, he wasn't about to be someone who scared her even further. " We're not telling father, not yet. We need to figure out what they are before he does and wants to use them to his advantage." It really was sad that the king of Corthyr was such a man that even his kids weren't open with him, but it was how things were. He loosened his arms just enough to softly begin to rub her back like he recalled he would watch their mother do for her when she was younger.
' Don't worry, your brother has your back. And those bastards won't get away with it.' he kept the thought to himself as he didn't want her to worry too much about what he'd do, she knew he had quite the temper already and it didn't help his case sometimes. This time though? He had to think clearly to come up with a plan. And she had to know one thing.
Leaning back, he shifted and took her shoulders in his hands, looking at her. " You're going to rest. I'll be taking care of this other man, he won't be a problem ever again by the time I'm done. And Pia, don't blame yourself, okay?" his voice taking on an almost gentle tone towards the end as his mind already began to run. First, he had to connect with the maid because the perp wouldn't be so stupid to come out if he saw Alastair. Then the guards that had found her...yeah, he could make this work. He would be made into a message by the time he was done. " I may not be back tonight, but I'll be back to see you in the morning by latest, okay?" she likely would figure out what he meant by him taking care of it, but he wouldn't go into detail. Not when he didn't even know what he'd do.
WHO WITH: Atropia
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FEELING: Furious
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WHERE AT: Corthyr, Castle - Atropia's room
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WEARING: All Black, Minus the mask, jacket and gloves.
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OUT of CHARACTER: ...
　
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Posted: Tue Jul 01, 2025 1:19 pm
“Don’t worry about him. I’ll find him. He’ll be dealt with accordingly.”
His words carried weight. They always had, and Pia understood exactly what he meant, even when he didn’t say the violent parts aloud. There had been more times than she could count where he had intervened on her behalf, sometimes without her knowing until much later. But she always found out. Always. He’d made a quiet art out of shielding her from the worst of the world, and she was grateful, grateful for the innocence he tried so hard to preserve in her. But the gory details? Those were left unspoken. She didn’t ask…she wouldn’t.
Her gaze dropped to the blanket clenched tightly in her fists, her knuckles white as though someone might rip it, or her, away at any second. Then came the warmth from the sudden hug from Alastair, and finally her shoulders relaxed. For the first time that night, she felt air in her lungs again. Pia’s grip on the quilt loosened, and she stilled, allowing herself to be held, like he’d held her countless times before. But those times were for childish fears. Nightmares and imaginary monsters in the closet. This time, the monsters had been real.
Her body trembled. Tears filled her eyes but didn’t fall, not yet. She stayed like that, frozen in the moment, until finally she pressed her face into his chest, wrapping her arms tightly around him. The fabric of his shirt bunched under her fingers as she gripped it like a lifeline, small and desperate. She felt like a child again, a little girl who’d scraped her knee and needed someone to tell her she was okay. But that wasn’t what happened. People were cruel, and she was young, reckless, and stupid enough to believe she was untouchable.
Gods, how wrong she had been.
She rubbed her face against the soft cotton of his shirt, trying to muffle the sound of her sobs. She didn’t want to cry, didn’t want to be seen like this, but she couldn’t stop. And when Alastair mentioned her father, her whole body stopped, “Do you swear?” Her voice was barely audible as she questioned him. The King couldn’t know. He couldn’t. As far as he was concerned, his daughter was flawless- his perfect, precious angel. What would he think if he found out the truth? Would he cut her out of the business? Would he look at her like a stranger?
As Alastair’s arms began to loosen, she clung to him tighter, panic rising. She wasn’t ready to let go. She couldn’t lose the warmth he gave her, not yet. But slowly, gently, he rubbed her back, and the edge of that panic dulled. Bit by bit, her body relaxed once more. Then he leaned back, taking her by the shoulders, and the anxiety came rushing in again. She met his eyes, puffy and red-rimmed, and furrowed her brow, “I don’t know if I can…” She whispered and the words hung between them, heavy with double meaning. She didn’t know if she could sleep, not when every time she closed her eyes, the foggy memory came roaring back. And she didn’t know if she could believe it wasn’t her fault, because in so many ways, it was. She had gone alone. She had taken the drinks, and she had taken a life.
But instead of arguing, she gave him the smallest of nods and looked away, “Okay, brother.” He didn’t need to know. When Alastair told her he wouldn’t be home for the rest of the night, dread pooled in her stomach. Even knowing how capable he was didn’t ease the knot twisting tighter inside her, “Please don’t do anything stupid…” Her voice trembled slightly, the memory of the last time he’d done something stupid vivid in her mind. Back when they were children, nearly kidnapped, and he’d retaliated by almost setting the entire town ablaze.
She flinched as the door creaked open. Her eyes shifted toward the sound, and on the other side stood her maid, concern painted her features. Pia lifted a hand and waved her in. They’d grown up together and even though she was older by a few years, she’d always been more than a servant, she was her best friend. There was nothing Pia hid from her, almost nothing. The redhead moved cautiously into the room, her gaze flickering between the two siblings. “It’s okay, Lottie. I’m okay,” Pia lied, exhaling as she laid back against her pillows. She wouldn’t sleep, but if pretending brought Alastair a little peace, then she would pretend.
Charlotte approached the bed, gently pulling the covers up around Pia, before glancing toward Alastair, “My Prince,” she said softly and respectful but not timid, “What will you do?” Pia reached out, touching Charlotte’s arm, shaking her head slowly. Don’t ask. Don’t get involved. She didn’t need anyone else to carry this weight. But Charlotte’s expression didn’t waver. There was a fierce fire in her eyes. She had always been like this, protective, just like her brother was.
Something silent passed between them and Pia’s eyes followed, suspicion creeping in, “You aren’t planning to go with him, are you?” She pushed herself up onto her elbows, alarm rising, “You cannot let her, Alastair!” Her voice sharpened into something that wasn’t quite a plea, wasn’t quite a threat either, but close. She didn’t know what plan they were forming, didn’t know how much they had already decided behind her back, but the idea of Charlotte getting involved made her chest tighten. They’d have to be damn good liars if they were planning on getting away with whatever they were going to do.
OOC: N/A Location: Pia's room Company: Alastair | Maids | Guard Outfit: PJs
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Posted: Sat Jul 05, 2025 8:02 pm
Alastair didn't want their father to know for another reason other than Atropia being the perfect child. He wasn't a stranger to the fact of how he was known for being imperfect and rash in the family. Even the boy who had once been introduced in passing as their half-sibling wasn't as feared in the way that he was. Sure, a different way, but those were his powers, and he couldn't help it. Alastair on the other hand was just hard to get along with, and he knew that. Even as he held his sister close, her hands gripping his shirt like she used to as a child before they began to grow up a little more; he felt a rage building in his stomach over the fact that their father would take total advantage of her. " I swear. He won't hear a word until we get this sorted." his voice was colder than usual, not taking any chances on anybody hearing outside the door at this point. Although if they did, they had a death wish, because god forbid the prince find out and make them be quiet. He tried to remain strong and calm for her, because he knew she needed someone like that to be on her side especially when things weren't going well. His temper sometimes only caused more problems for her, and while he appreciated her stepping in when needing to, this was not one of those times he needed to make it harder.
Her attempt to agree to rest made him relax some of the tension from his shoulders and he lifted his hand up, setting it against the side of her face in a gesture that even for his and Atropia's interactions was a little more gentle than usual. " Nothing I do in defense of you is stupid, but I'll be careful." he reassured her. Was he still probably going to act recklessly? Oh certainly. But he would be a little less reckless with his safety until he knew the other person wasn't able to fight back. And that would require finding out if the man had any powers; although them running when hers kicked in made him think they likely didn't have any offensive powers of their own. His hand dropped from her cheek after a moment and when the door creaked open, he turned his head back slightly, the tension that had immediately formed in his shoulders leaving when he saw who it was. He wasn't particularly fond of some of the servants, but she was a good one. The fact that she had been extremely close with Atropia from a young age helped because he was able to learn that he could trust her with his sister no matter who else was involved. Sure, his dad was always a roadblock but there were ways around that.
He shifted slightly as he allowed the woman to tuck in his sister and his fingers tapped his leg as he thought to himself. Hearing the familiar voice questioning him he glanced over and met Charlotte's eyes. ' What am I going to do, indeed?' he thought to himself before he stood and stretched his arms out over his head. The sleeves on his shirt slid down revealing more of his bare arms as he allowed them to drop down by his sides. Atropia's fear and panic were more than warranted and it would be easier if he took someone with him who he knew would do this with her best interest in mind. " The only hangup will be getting him to come out. If that b*****d knows who you were, he sure as hell knows who I am." and he was pretty sure the man didn't have a death wish if he didn't stick around after his buddies melted before his eyes. Turning to face his sister head-on with his serious yet genuine expression he placed a hand on his hip lightly. " The best sort of help would be to remain here and make sure no one, not even father, bothers her." his words were half directed towards Charlotte and as he lifted his head up slightly to meet the other woman's eyes he grimaced. Hating to disappoint his sister, he knew he didn't have many other options for people who would trust him explicitly with their safety. " The only thing I may require help with is being bait, to draw him out. Beyond that there would be a guard escort back and no harm would come to you." his voice was calmer than usual which leant to his thinking things through. Before the man even laid hands-on Charlotte, he'd have the guards who saw the men have him pinned and then taken to the discreet location he already had in mind. She would come to no harm, and if by chance she got a scrape he would add it to his already long list of ideas of what he could do to the man.
Directing his eyes back to his sister he leaned down slightly and set his hand over hers again. " If she wants to help, I promise no harm will come to her. I swear to you." he wanted her back here more than anything because then he would know that his sister was in safe hands and okay. Then he could focus more on what he wanted to do in the moment, thoughts that he was keeping locked up in the back of his mind because he wasn't about to let those come forward when he was around his sister.
WHO WITH: Atropia
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FEELING: Furious
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WHERE AT: Corthyr, Castle - Atropia's room
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WEARING: All Black, Minus the mask, jacket and gloves.
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OUT of CHARACTER: ...
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Posted: Thu Jul 10, 2025 9:19 am
Atropia’s arms trembled slightly as she pushed herself upright, the delicate silk of her pajamas crumpling against her elbows. Her face was pale, lips pressed into a thin, colorless line as her brows furrowed with growing dread. The weight of the moment pressed heavily on her chest. Her breath caught, then her hand shot out, finding Charlotte’s forearm with a grasp that was far too desperate. Her fingers tightened around the fabric of the maid’s sleeve like it could somehow anchor her, keep her from slipping through her grasp entirely, “Then she stays,” Atropia sounded hoarse, the words echoed in the bedroom, splintering at the edges. Her voice cracked as she added, “You will stay, right, Lottie?”
Her eyes were wide now, glimmering with subtle panic. She couldn’t lose her, not when the world felt like it was coming apart at the seams. She turned her pleading gaze to Charlotte, expecting warmth or a promise. But Lotte wasn’t looking at her. Instead, the red-haired woman’s eyes were fixed on Alastair, like she was asking him for permission instead. And that detached look was nothing like the soft, grounding presence Atropia was used to.
She felt her stomach twist. Charlotte always looked at her. Always. In the mornings, or during tea time, even when she thought she wasn’t being watched. But now she wouldn't even meet her gaze? “Lottie,” Atropia said again, her voice sharper this time, like it had snapped, fear coiled beneath the surface, “Look at me.” The silence stretched, then slowly, Charlotte turned. Her expression softened as she finally looked at her, it was warm… and gentle, just like always, but...no, it felt like it was somewhat forced.
“Princess,” Charlotte started to say, “You know I hate upsetting you—”
Atropia’s fingers dug into her arm with sudden force, “I command you to stay, Charlotte.” Her voice trembled but didn’t waver, and the tears that had finally dried, reached the corner of her eyes again. Her breath hitched, and she turned to Alastair, hoping for some intervention. “No,” Her voice grew quiet and Charlotte flinched at the sound. Without a word, Charlotte sank down beside her, the bed shifting slightly beneath the weight. But Atropia didn’t move, she just stared in disbelief. What would she do if something happened to her? Who would brush the knots from her hair when the palace days got too long? Who would slip her sweets beneath napkins or warm her hands when they took a stroll in the winter?
Other than Alastair, Lottie was everything.
“I’m going with him,” Charlotte said softly, her hand reached up, cupping the side of Atropia’s cheek with an aching tenderness. Her thumb brushed against the edge of a tear before it could fall, “And nothing will happen to me. He swears it and so do I.” But it wasn’t enough, Atropia’s face twitched, her eyes narrowed and her lips pressed into a furious line. She didn’t want calm reassurances, no, she wanted someone to listen to her for once.
She had always been emotional, but rage was somewhat foreign to her. The heat that stirred in her chest wasn’t just grief, she felt like a cornered animal, made to watch the only two people she trusted walk off into danger. Her breath turned shallow. The sadness was still there, but it was buried now, it felt colder. Pia’s eyes hardened and the sadness that had been written across her face moments ago vanished as she pulled away from Charlotte’s touch. Her lips curled bitterly, “Fine,” She muttered, “If you get yourself killed, don’t come back to haunt me.”
Her grip fell from Charlotte’s arm as if the contact had burned her, and without another word, Atropia turned and laid back down, this time facing the wall. Charlotte sat there in the silence, heart aching. She could still see the heartbreak behind the princess’s eyes even as she looked away. This was how Atropia protected herself, she knew that deep down. With distance and with words she didn’t mean. It was always easier to pretend she didn’t care than to admit how she truly felt.
Charlotte reached out again, placing a careful hand on the princess’s shoulder, but the moment her fingers made contact, Atropia flinched. As if she was a disease. Charlotte froze, her hand suspended there a moment longer before she slowly withdrew it, her chest had tightened. This was going to be hard to come back from. But, she wasn’t going to push it, Pia was closed off now, there was no opening her back up. She exhaled slowly, then stood, “I’m sorry, Your Highness, but I must go now.” Her voice was heavier than before, yet sincere. She straightened her back, wiping the emotion off her face with practiced ease before turning toward Alastair.
“She’ll be all right for the time being,” Her voice was firm, though it still carried the weight of what had just passed. “I’ve instructed the others to stand guard at her door and not let anyone enter. If the king comes by…” She hesitated for a beat, glancing back once toward the bed, where Atropia lay curled away from the world. “They have been told to tell him she’s in the bath. That should keep him away for long enough.” Then, with a final glance to the door and a breath she didn’t want to release, Charlotte turned to Alastair with a steely sort of calm, “Okay then, I’m ready to help.”
OOC: Charlotte Location: Pia's room Company: Alastair | Lottie Outfit: PJs
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Posted: Tue Jul 22, 2025 7:26 pm
It killed Alastair to watch his sister close off like that. He tensed his shoulders, but he knew what he had to do; and he knew he couldn't do it alone. He allowed Charlotte to take her time with Atropia, his green eyes watching the entire time as he did so. His jaw ticked and he rubbed it as he listened, the fact that the woman was willing to upset his sister for her own sake was both honorable and part of him just wanted to tell her to stay behind, but he knew deep down that she was needed. This man wasn't an idiot, not by a long shot. If they knew who she was and continued doing what they did, they would avoid him. Now, a harmless woman walking into a bar looking for a fun time? That was different. He had stepped out, and moments before the door closed, he looked back to Atropia's back, his expression cool but his words warmer than most people got to hear. " She'll be returned safe and sound, I promise." he knew that it might not mean much to his sister right now, but he wouldn't let her down.
When Charlotte turned and looked at him, he could see the weight of doing what she had in her eyes and heard it in her tone. That wasn't lost on him, and he ran a hand through his hair as he sighed. Gods, he was going to have to be kind, wasn't he? He knew the woman knew that wasn't his specialty but that was okay most of the time, but now? Alastair didn't want her to feel like he didn't appreciate the help, especially when he would be able to get his hands on that b*****d who ran away and got spared. Letting his hand drop with a soft thump he straightened his shoulders. " I appreciate the help, and if you ever feel like you need a rescue, we'll come up with a code word." he offered the suggestion up, a way for her to be able to say she didn't feel safe because he meant it when he told his sister that he'd make sure she returned safely to her side.
Alastair took a moment to look the woman over. Red hair, green eyes... yeah, she didn't look related at all, that was perfect. He couldn't help but let the slight grin form over his lips at the thought of what he'd do when he got his hands on the man. " Plan is simple, I'll post up a few guards inside the bar, undercover of course. You go in, we'll lure him outside and then once he's taken down and to another location; you'll be escorted back until you're safe." it really was a simple plan, however he knew as such things they could go wrong sometimes, and he wanted to be careful. With a wave of his hand, he motioned for her to follow him as the guards posted up outside Atropia's room stepped into place. He had only allowed his own most trusted to watch over her, his father had tried to break them before and tell him Alastairs secret and they both persisted, gaining his hard to keep trust. Since then, he had them doing small things for him, or big ones, like this. As he walked, he lowered his voice so that only Charlotte could hear him. " We'll have you dress up a little nicer, and there will be a word for you to say if you're not feel safe or need a hand." he paused on the stairs, turning his head back to glance at her from the corner of his eye. He looked at her silently for another moment before, for a brief moment, he smiled slightly. Only to look ahead again, as if it hadn't happened. " Thank you. I owe you for looking after her when I can't, and remaining by her side when I'm forced to leave it." it wasn't like the prince to admit such feelings, but he couldn't help but want her to know what it meant to him, especially since she was trusting him so wholly to keep her safe.
Alastair then kept walking until he came to what he knew to be a spare bedroom where most of his mother kept her clothes. She would understand if he did this for Atropia's sake, wouldn't she? He held the door open with one hand before looking away and waiting. " Pick what you're comfortable in, I know these types, they like to ruin higher up women who they think they can take advantage of." he paused, only looking to her once she entered the room and began to let the door close slightly. " I trust you to be able to play that part." somehow, and he couldn't explain how, he believed she would give it her best effort. Perhaps it was because the one thing they both care about in this situation was Atropia, and he knew both of them would do anything for her.
Even commit crimes that if he was anyone else, he would likely die for.
WHO WITH: Charlotte
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FEELING: Mixed Emotions
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WHERE AT: Corthyr, Castle - Spare Room
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WEARING: All Black, Minus the mask, jacket and gloves.
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OUT of CHARACTER: ...
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Posted: Fri Jul 25, 2025 11:49 am
"She'll be returned safe and sound. I promise."
The words rang hollow in Pia’s ears, she gripped the edge of the blanket tighter, wrapping it around herself like a steel cocoon. Maybe she was being childish, but at this point, who cared? He was being reckless, and it infuriated her. There was a real chance he could get Lottie killed, and if that happened, if he did that, she would never forgive him. But the moment the door clicked shut behind them, all of that rage unraveled and it was replaced by something far heavier, fear... and sorrow. Her lip trembled as she squeezed her eyes shut, ‘Don’t cry. Don’t cry. Don’t cry...’ Atropia’s chin quivered despite her silent pleas. She tried to hold it in, but the tears came anyway, quiet, desperate sobs muffled into the pillow.
Charlotte’s eyes narrowed slightly as she watched the prince struggle to summon politeness from the depths of his soul. It was... sweet, in its own odd way. He was trying, but Gods, it looked like he might burst a blood vessel. “Sir, it’s my pleasure to serve,” She said smoothly, dipping into a modest bow before folding her hands neatly in front of her, “Let’s hope we won’t need one.” She tried to chuckle, to lighten the air, but the sound came out thinner than she’d hoped. Anxiety tugged at her every nerve. Lottie had heard plenty of rumors about the man standing before her, none of them particularly comforting, and Princess Atropia hadn’t been shy about sharing stories either. Although, Charlotte was fairly certain the prince didn’t realize just how much his sister truly knew.
She kept her expression neutral, something very practiced, but when he grinned, a subtle wince flared behind her eyes. She could guess what image played in his mind, and she didn’t like it, but at least he was preparing to destroy the monster responsible. Lottie nodded as he walked her through the plan, “Sounds like a great plan, Your Highness.” As he moved ahead, she hurried to match his pace, he was clearly eager to get on with it. When his voice dropped lower, she leaned in to hear better. The mention of nicer clothes made her stomach twist uncomfortably. The idea felt wrong, but then again, this entire mission was wrong in some way or another.
" Thank you. I owe you for looking after her when I can't, and remaining by her side when I'm forced to leave it."
There it was the reminder she needed. The reason she was doing this in the first place. The princess. Someone she cared deeply for, someone she would move mountains for. Lottie glanced at him, and there it was, a flicker of a real smile, genuine gratitude. It caught her off guard. “I’m simply doing my duty, sir. You don’t need to thank me,” She shifted her eyes forward, it wasn’t the truth, not really, it wasn’t just because of her duty, “…She deserves justice. For what’s been done to her.” Lottie blinked hard, unsure what to do with his kindness.
By the time they reached the spare bedroom, her stomach had completely turned. She recognized it immediately; this was where the queen kept her wardrobe. Surely, he didn’t expect her to…? Her throat tightened, gaze darting toward him, voice catching. “Sir, I can’t- This is…” She glanced between him and the room, but he didn’t back down. The prince trusted her he’d said as much, and if he needed her to play this part, well... she didn’t exactly scream ‘noblewoman’ in her servant’s uniform. So, Charlotte lowered her head and stepped through the doorway.
She’d been in that closet dozens of times, folding and organizing the queen’s clothes, but this felt different and invasive. It was like she was stepping into a life that didn’t belong to her. With a sigh, Charloette went for a dress tucked farther in the back, a beautiful, rich piece the queen hadn’t worn in years. It felt like the best option. Sliding it on, she turned to the mirror and froze not recognizing the woman staring back. A stranger in silk and lace. With a breath, she shook it off. The shoes, thankfully, fit, same size. She slipped into them and moved toward the door.
When it opened, her voice came out softer than she intended, “Will this work, Prince Alastair?” Her arms crossed loosely over her chest, a feeble attempt to cover the way the corset hoisted her body up unnaturally. But this was for the princess, it had to work. “I cannot be caught wearing this,” Charlottes voice was steadier now, “You understand this, I hope?”
OOC: Charlotte Location: Pia's room Company: Alastair | Lottie Outfit: Atropia: PJs | Charlotte: Dress
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