This was also part of a prompt game on tumblr: send a number (or 2) and a pairing and i'll try and write a drabble or ficlet

This one was for Weight of the World + Aranella x Bracken

I forgot to crosspost this ages ago, my bad

Originally posted on tumblr on April 7, 2020


Stick to the Script and Other Stories

By Bilbo-sama

Weight of the World


"His Majesty is dying," Aranella blurted out.

Bracken paused in her tinkering and turned to the communicator. On the video screen, Aranella suddenly looked more tired. As if she was truly revealing the weight of the world pressing down on her.

Bracken wished she can just drop everything and Travel to Dell at this very moment and just hug her Ella tight. King Leonhard Tildrum was a father figure to Ella as she grew up among the maid staff. The progression of Leonhard's illness was hitting her hard.

"How long does he have?" Bracken asked.

"A few weeks at best."

"Does Evan know?" Gods the poor kid is nearly eleven…

"He is," Aranella confirmed, "he also has had his studies accelerated. We hope it will keep him distracted."

Bracken winced. She doubted having the heir apparent prepare for his impending reign so fast would be any helpful. But it could keep some of the vulturing nobles and ministers Ella rants every few nights about at bay. As long as Ella and Lord Mausinger are around to guide him, Evan might get through his first few years okay.

"I…" started Aranella, "I hope you'll be here when…"

"I will," Bracken promises, "I will."


The funeral of King Leonhard Tildrum was on a sunny winter day. Aranella stood rigidly, pretending to not notice the future King Evan quietly sniffling by her left side.

Bracken stood by her right. She discretely squeezed Aranella's hand.

Aranella didn't squeeze back.

She should have.