A/N: It's been a while since I posted anything concerning "A Love Worth Fighting For" and longer since I've published it. Originally, I was going to pick up where I left off but I noticed huge inconsistencies that would bite me in the ass towards the end concerning the plot line. So, what is one to do? My idea was to go back and rewrite EVERYTHING. So, if you're an old reader, I suggest starting from the beginning. Though the beginning remains the same, it's towards Chapter 3 that things are completely different. Because my life is hectic and I don't find myself around the computer as much as I want, I've only got the first 2 chapters edited to where I'm satisfied. Chapter 3 is a monstrosity because of how much things have changed plus what I added (it's reached almost 8 pages already and still counting, which is a lot bigger than it originally was at 6 pages). I apologize for any grammar errors, I tried to be very thorough with editing. Hopefully you guys still enjoy my series and I'll work extra hard on producing more chapters.


The actor's voice filled the air as my blonde-haired companion sighed, staring out to the mostly empty theater. "Why does no one appreciate the genius of my work?" I shifted my position to leaning against the railing, my eyes looking out to the few guests who appeared. "Well, to put it kindly, maybe your work is far too futuristic for the current masses to understand. Don't get me wrong, your work is always lovely to watch but not everyone has the same mindset." William's mood hadn't change but the slight smile on his face told me my attempt at helping was appreciated. That didn't last long though since someone behind us decided to intervene in our conversation.

"She actually means that your plays are over-written and difficult to follow". I shook my head, a small smile crossing my face. "You know Odin that I do not enjoy having words put in my mouth". Odin had the decency to look sheepish as Antonio came up behind her, agreeing with Odin's statement. William was none too pleased with the harsh criticism. "Nobody asked you two." Cornelia then appeared, smacking both on the head and apologizing to William for their rudeness. While this was happening, I quickly took note on their attire and assumed these two were up to their daily heroics again. I could just imagine how mad Conrad will be once he caught sight of these two. One thing after living with them for a couple of months is that last person you would want to piss off is the old man.

After pleasantries were exchanged and William roping Odin and Antonio into his next play, they headed off towards the secret entrance while William and I remained behind, our attentions going back to the play. Once it had finished and the audience finally left, we set up everything to practice William's next play. I had once asked him why he continues working even though a few people come by and his response was: "My dear child, I do not write plays for other but for myself. Even if no one ever comes along to see them, I will continue writing because it what I love doing most of all." I respected William for it and helped whenever I could, trying not to be such a burden like I felt most of the time.

My thoughts consumed me for a bit as William got the actors ready, my mind going back to that night so many months ago. If Odin hadn't come along when I did, death would have been much sweeter than being assaulted by some guards. It didn't help that the incident was my first memory, the only thing before that was waking up in some old alley with only a name. It was also the time I accidently learned that Odin was Juliet, her wig slipped as we ran away. That was why I was under the care of Juliet's companions, due to my unknown origins, they weren't sure I wouldn't blabber to the first person I see or that I really lost my memories. The first couple of days were a bit harsh but it wasn't long before they started warming up to me, well, except for one...

"Lydia, you there?" I snapped out of my thoughts, an embarrassed blush covering my cheeks. "I'm sorry William, I hadn't meant to be distracted!" William gave me a small pat on my head along with a warm smile. "It's all right my child, even I tend to have my moments." Smiling in return, I focused back on my duties, which consisted of making sure all actors were accounted for (Antonio and Juliet had the decency to show up) and I had to hold in my chuckles as William forced them to wear their costumes. As I made my way towards William, who was barking out orders, I couldn't help but admire his ability. Something about the art of converting a story to the stage always fascinated me, even though some of the people William worked with were kind of a bit hard-headed.

As practice came along and I was jotting down my notes, it wasn't long before William yelled, "Stop!". William didn't hesitate when he complained that the main actors were supposed to act like lovers. I held in my laugh as Emilia was immediately insulted while Juliet asked if they could go which only added fuel to William's annoyance. Emilia did not skip a beat, "Maybe Odin should play opposite of me". I tried holding in my laughter but judging by Emilia's glare I wasn't doing a pretty good job. "What's so wrong with Odin falling madly in love with me?". I quickly gained my composure and told her. "If Odin cannot play a sheep, what chances does he have on playing a love-struck lover?". Emilia was quick to dismiss such a thought but Juliet refusing her was the final straw. She quickly walked off the stage, William shouting "Where do you think you're going, we have less than a week to perform this play!" Emilia turned to glare at him and said that if that was the case then he should go finish his play first.

Since the star just walked out and William was fuming out of his ears, the rehearsal was cut short. After helping clean up the place a little even though there wasn't much of a mess in the first place, William approached me with a proposal. I was bit confused on what is was but the small quirk in his mouth meant that it wouldn't be something I would find myself okay with. "I notice you ease when you work with me during rehearsal so I have a little request for you. Would you be willing to write a story?" I was shocked by his request. "Write a story? If I may ask, why me?". His expression told me he was up to something. "The art of storytelling isn't something that is given but learned. Throughout your time here, I see this look in your eyes that I am convinced is the same one I possess when I write my plays."

I kind of understood what he was getting at but I was still doubtful about writing it. He was the one who wrote plays, I'm just around because the stage captures my interest. William sensed the notion of my thoughts, "What I'm saying my dear, is that I want you to write a story and, in a few months' time, hopefully, have it performed in this very theatre." I was filled with nervousness at the thought that whatever I wrote would be shown to the public. "William, I don't think…" He shook his and patted me on the head. "Nonsense, I have faith that you'll do fine. Now, come along, I've been told that Emilia wanted to talk to you about something."

It was hard to argue once William set his mind to it, so the least I could do is attempt to write it. Bidding goodbye, I decided to go and face the inevitable. I had a bad feeling when William told me that Emilia was looking for me but I knew if I didn't go, Emilia would hunt me down. Heading towards Emilia's dressing room, I came across Juliet. "Odin!" She turned around and greeted me. "Lydia, where are you going? I thought you were still with William?" "I was with him and it turns out he wants me to write a story. He's also hoping to have it performed soon." Juliet laughed at my conundrum. "I'm glad that I'm not interested in that stuff." I crossed my arms, a little bit peeved. "I don't think it's that bad. It all just comes down to one's interest.". She gave me an apologetic grin and change the subject.

"Anyway, where are you heading to?" I remembered the storm I was walking towards. "Emilia wanted to talk to me. I'm hoping it has nothing to do with the incident during rehearsal". Juliet looked bewildered and said, "She called you in as well." I let out an irritable sigh, clutching my head, already having a bad feeling. "She calls both of us? Now whatever she needs us for isn't going to end well". She agreed and we both made our way to Emilia's dressing room. We knocked on Emilia's door, but when it opened, we were in shock to see her dressed like she was going to a ball. "Odin, Lydia, I'm so glad you could make it. I have some really good news for the both of you!" She began explaining that through her connections, had managed to get us into the Rose Ball.

She said that the person she was going had allowed her to bring some friends (namely me and Juliet) and she wanted us to go with her. My first initiative to such news was to try to immediately back out of it. "Emilia, it sounds fun and all but I have to work for William to do…" The second I mentioned William, it was like I had stepped on a landmine. Emilia went off and said that William should let me have some fun and not coop me up in his theatre. The looks she gave me screamed 'I will do whatever it takes to make you come with me', clutching her hands towards her chest and pleaded "Come on Lydia, it's just for tonight." I couldn't refuse her without causing her to go to another tantrum so I placed all my hope in my last option.

"Alright but I'll only go if Odin goes." Juliet through me a surprised look while Emilia turned her sights to Juliet. It didn't take long for Juliet to give in, crushing all the hopes I placed on her. Then Emilia informed us that 'Odin' needed to dress up as a girl. "Why does Odin have to dress up as a girl?" She said that she didn't want anyone in the ball to assume that they needed to go through 'competition'. I held back any remarks, don't want to piss her off. Emilia pushed us into her dressing room and walked towards her wardrobe. She then took out two dresses. "I think these will look wonderful on you!". Before either Juliet or I could get a word in, she walked out of the room, saying something about a hat. We both changed into our respective gowns and even though I detested fancy gowns with a passion, I do admit that Emilia's fashion sense is spot on. The green ball gown with gold accents flattered me considerably.

"You look good in that dress." I turned and faced Juliet, a smile on my face. "Thanks, and the same could be said about you. I'm just really considering if this is a good idea." Juliet had the same look but, since this was one if the few times she went out in public as a girl, tried to encourage me. "It isn't that bad Lydia. Besides, it's the first time we will actually have some fun without Conrad breathing down our necks." I looked at the mirror, trying to encourage myself that this would be fun. Certainly, Juliet bouncing around the room in giddiness finally pushed me over to agree with her. I helped Juliet with her makeup since she wanted her hair to remain the way it was while I kept mine in a high ponytail.

After placing on our masks, we were waiting for Emilia to come back. "Are you ready for the ball, my sweetness?" Juliet and I immediately focused on the door as a large man came through, happy. This must be the patron Emilia had been talking about. His eyes zero in on Juliet and he quickly grabs her by the hand. "Oh, you are really looking scrumptious, my dear! And this must be that lovely friend of yours that you've been talking about! Now come along quickly my dears, we must make haste!" He grabbed our wrists and before either of us could voice a protest, he pulled us to his carriage.

On the ride to the ball, we had tried several times to tell him he left Emilia, the person who he had originally invited to go but we both stopped after realizing it was futile. He kept talking about how lucky he was to escort two "beautiful" women. I felt a bit sick but held it down since the ball would give us plenty of chances to escape him…hopefully. Looking at the night sky outside the carriage helped settle my nerves a little. I began to wonder if all nobles acted the same was as this man?

The man trying to guess what was so different about 'Emilia' while I really hoped that he was the only one of his kind, though even I knew that was going to be a bit far-fetched. Luckily, it wasn't long before we reached our destination. As the man helped us off the carriage, I couldn't help but admire the beauty of the place. There were men and women littered around the courtyard, wearing stunning clothing and I couldn't help but feel a little out of place. The man then proceeded to lead us inside to the hall, after receiving the rose they were handing out by the greeters. As the man went off somewhere, saying something about grabbing a drink, I turned to talk to Juliet. My voice died in my throat at the expression on her face. "What is it Juliet?". She dropped her rose and back away, holding her head. "I've been here before…".

I became confused, wondering if Emilia had brought Juliet before but Juliet shook her head when I asked. Before I could question her further, a voice announced that the Prince was going to make an announcement towards the end of the ball and that all guests should enjoy the ball. Juliet said that she needed some fresh air and I was going with her but she stopped me. "No. I mean, I don't want to spoil your fun Lydia. A breath of fresh air should be fine and I'll be back before you know it." I was going to disagree but Juliet looked like she really needed to be alone for a moment. "Alright but you can't leave me alone for too long, you're the only one I can talk to." Juliet smiled at that and promised to find me once she was okay.

When Juliet left, I tried looking for something to do. Everyone was in their little groups and I suddenly felt a bit isolated. I decided something to drink would help alleviate the problem so I tried finding where the drinks were. It didn't take long to find the table but I was distracted on my way there when a strange nobleman stood in my way. He was probably a bit older than me and he dressed like most of the gentlemen here, except the crest on his left. What caught my attention were his dark blue eyes and I felt a sudden chill down my spine, the urge to run away great, regardless of the seemingly innocent smile on his face.

I was brought out of my daze when his mouth started moving. "I beg your pardon?" A smirk grew on his face as he spoke. "Dance with me." I felt a blush growing, knowing from his cocky smirk that he knew I was staring. I couldn't help but be a little mad at myself, why was I allowing this man to affect me in such a way? He clearly thought that I wouldn't recognize his lack of manners when he failed to ask me to dance. I got caught in his eyes again but quickly tried to get my bearings. "Sorry but I don't know how to dance." He chuckled a bit from my statement and I puffed up my cheeks insulted. "Here, let me save you the hassle and turn down your polite offering. I must get going, my thirst is greater than my urge to dance with you."

I walked by him, ignoring the stares from those that were close enough to hear us. I almost wish I had kept my voice down but I was a bit mad. The urge to flee grew smaller as the distance between us grew and I made a mental note to try to avoid the masked gentleman like the plague. Skipping out on the drink, I decided that maybe I should go locate Juliet. Hopefully she had enough time to clear her head so I wouldn't be alone anymore. I started heading towards the garden, where I guessed she would be when I felt someone grab hold of my arm. I was suddenly dragged back and I turned to realize it was the man who brought us here. The air around him was filled with the scent of alcohol and I tried freeing myself from his grasp.

"Now dear come down. The dance is about to start and I need a partner~" The way he sounded when he said that caused me to fear for my safety. I yanked on my arm, managing to get it free from his grasp. "I'm sorry but I have to find my friend." He let out a drunken laugh, his arms trying to reach me as I back away. "She's probably dancing with a young man inside. Now come on, my dear, you should enjoy the rest of your night with me." Just as he was about to reach me, I felt someone wrap their hands around my torso, pulling further away from the drunken man's reach.

"I'm sorry to inform you but this little lady has already promised me her first dance." I recognized the voice of the gentleman from earlier and I turned to see that he was glaring at the other man through his mask, a thinly veiled threat in them. The man was too drunk to even acknowledge it. "She and her friend are at this ball because of me. I have a right to dance with her than you do." I was going to argue that I refused to dance with him when the man behind me tightened his hold on me and said "You don't want to cause a scene here, do you? How would you feel when people started talking about you forcing yourself on a young woman, especially one from a lower class?" The man's jaw dropped in shock while I was trying to resist the urge to hit my 'supposed' rescuer. The drunken man snapped out of his stupor and glared at the man being me as he left. I felt the tension lift from my shoulders though I tried to forget the consequences once Emilia found out. Hopefully, she liked me too much to skin me alive.

It was then that I heard a chuckle and remembered that I wasn't alone. His words from earlier came back ringing in my ear and I swiftly took his hands off me. I turned around and said, "Thank you but I could have handled it. I don't need some nobleman's help". He smirked at my response, his blue eyes holding amusement in them as he spoke. "I'm sure you could. Now, I believe you owe me a dance." I heard the hint of sarcasm and couldn't help but match it with my own. "Now why is that Mr. Nobleman?" He raised his eyebrows, the smirk on his face growing. "I think saving you is one reason." I scoffed at his reasoning and narrowed my eyes at him. "And I believe I told you that I did not need your help, therefore that reasoning is invalid, not to mention I've told you previously that I cannot dance." He took hold of my hand, his grip offering no chance of escape. He maneuvered us through a crowd of dancers as he spoke, "I can easily teach you, you just need to follow my lead."

He pulled me tight against my body, despite my protests. He started moving in tune with the music and whispered commands into my ear. I was seriously ticked off and I really did not want to dance with this jerk but we were surrounded by people, all of whom were watching us. I did not want to cause a scene so I reluctantly played along. However, I wasn't willing to let him get away with this so every occasionally, I would step on his foot causing him to cringe which resulted in his grip on me strengthening. I had an innocent smile on his face though the raised eyebrow of his told me he wasn't buying it. To my fortune the song was a short one and I immediately pulled myself away from him. Bowing in mock modesty, I sarcastically told him that I had a good time. As I turned to leave I heard him say, "I do not believe I have gotten your name." I turned and gave him my best shit eating grin. "I believe you won't be getting one either."

I expected disdain in his eyes but to my surprise his eyes seemed to brighten at my response. It looked like he found some amusement and just when I was going to question why, I remembered Juliet. Ignoring the blue-eyed man, I started to weave around the crowd, trying to catch sight of my auburn-haired friend. I looked everywhere and even went as far as conversing with some nobles on her whereabouts. It wasn't until this 'young woman' told me she saw someone, who fit Juliet's description, just leave through the main gate with a handsome blonde gentleman. It did not take a genius to figure out she was most likely talking about Francisco. I plastered a fake smile on my face and thanked her even though she was shooting dirty looks at me. What did I do to warrant such a look?

I got my answer as I walked away, clearly, she wanted me to overhear. She is talking about how Lord something could have found interest in such an uneducated girl like me. I clenched my teeth, noting she wasn't all sunshine and smiles either. Then I tried to figure out who she was talking about. The only notable person who I have had contact with was that infuriating blue-eyed stranger. It appeared that any further association with him was just asking for trouble. If only I had known how big that trouble was going to be. Moving on with my thoughts, it would also appear that Juliet had already left though me being left behind is probably Francisco's fault. That man wouldn't let any chance to torture me go.

These unfortunate series of events lead me to only two options: either I walk home alone through the dangerous streets or I find the man who brought me here and ask if he could time me home. At the current moment, the former was more appealing. With that decided, I started heading towards the main gates. The problem was that I did not expect to find that the guards would interfere on my way home. "Excuse me my lady but to which house do you belong to?" I froze in my spot, clearly not knowing what to say. The guards started getting suspicious and I tried to find a way to get away. Getting caught by guards is like asking for a death sentence. As I was about to leg it, a very familiar voice said, "She's with me."

I turned to be greeted by the sight of the same man who has found amusement in my struggles. He pulled me close and took out a badge though I could not see the emblem of the house. Once the guards realized who he belonged to, they quickly started apologizing and moved aside to let us pass. Without so much of an argument, we passed them until we were no longer able to be heard. I didn't put much of a fuss, deciding a few moments in his presence would be considerably better than a jail cell though if he lost that smirk, the happier I would be. "When I decided to attend, this gathering, I never believed I would have to save a damsel in distress several times." His arrogant tone pissed me off once again and moved aside to face him. "I'm not a damsel in distress! In not one of my confrontations did I ever ask for your help!". I almost flinched when he leaned down so our faces were only a few millimeters apart. "You didn't need to ask, my lady, it was so clearly written all over your face"