I don't own Ever After High or Kamen Rider Ryuki.
"APPLE AND LANCE'S LOVE STORY"
"There are many who wonder how the fairest princess in the land, Apple White, a Royal who strongly believed in adhering to tradition and destiny, fell in love with Lance Beauregard, the next Lancelot and Knight of the Round Table, Kamen Rider Knight."
"Well, like all great stories, it all started with once upon a time..."
"And it's just so romantic!"
After school one day, Lance and Apple were seen sharing a strawberry milkshake at the local Dairy Ice Queen in Book End. Apple was completely smitten by Lance. He was a complete gentleman, doing things like opening doors for her and offering to pay for everything.
When Apple White first began dating Lance Beauregard, people started talking. After all, the next Snow White was meant to be with Prince Charming. That was how the story went. Instead, Apple White had chosen to date a knight, but not just any knight. He was a member of the legendary Knights of the Round Table and the next to inherit the title of Sir Lancelot.
Daring Charming could not believe that Apple would choose a knight over him, a prince and a Charming, but Lance was a Knight of the Round Table so that meant he had a great destiny that could rival his.
Was Apple White going against her destiny? Was Apple White, the de facto leader of the Royals, becoming a Rebel? If it was any other princess, it wouldn't be such a big deal, but she was Princess Apple White.
Many believed that the spell on Apple would soon be broken and she'd go running back into Daring's arms. However, there were others who believed that she was actually falling in love.
Exploring a relationship with Lance was part of Apple's plan to discover her true Prince Charming. Lance admitted that he didn't have a story when they first met, but he was a true knight for protecting her. Apple thought that this would be a wonderful opportunity to build up her Prince Charming. It was an idea Apple got since she was sure Lance could be her prince since he came to her rescue like a courageous Knight in Shining Armor. It was a fact which only grew more appealing when Lance saved her on the night those ferocious Mirror Monsters attacked her in the dorms. And after all was said and done, he even comforted her so she would not suffer from any nightmares.
Seeing such a sterling example of knighthood and heroism, Apple wanted to see just how far she and Lance could go with their new relationship. She just knew it would be spelltacular.
Ever After High - Hallway
"Apple, it's time to spill," Briar grinned as she, Ashlynn, and Blondie surrounded her at her locker. "We all heard there were fourteen new guys who just came to the school. You were picked to give them a tour of the school, so spill the beans."
"Are they princely? Heroic? Or are they just right?" Blondie asked excitedly. This was hot news and she just couldn't resist.
"Well, it's actually thirteen new boys and a girl," Apple clarified. "But according to what I was told, they're the new King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table!"
"No way!" Ashlynn gasped and her friends following suit. "You mean the most chivalrous and heroic knights to ever walk the land?! The next King of Knights and his court, all of them coming here to our school!? Oh, my godmother!"
"King Arthur and his knights supposedly disappeared from Book End after they graduated!" Blondie gasped. "Apple, you actually got to meet their descendants!"
"Yes!" Apple beamed. "I met my first one a few days ago. You know, the one who rescued me from that awful monster? His name is Lance Beauregard and he's the next Lancelot!"
"You mean the most chivalrous, skilled, and downright hunkiest knight of all time?" Briar gasped. "Wow, Apple, you sure know how to aim high! No wonder you were out on a date with him! Does he stack up to his legend?"
"Ooooh, he does," Apple giggled. "He's charming, handsome, and just so heroic when he fought against those dreadful Mirror Monsters. Oh, it was like a dream come true when he saved me and soothed my fears after that awful attack."
"But what about Daring? Aren't you still considering him for your Happily Ever After?" asked Blondie.
"Oh, Daring and I were never really together-together." Apple shook her head. "We're definitely each other's number one choice, but I like to keep my options open for my Prince Charming."
"I can see why if you've got Lancelot hooked on you," Briar grinned teasingly. "Okay, so spill about the others. What were they like?"
"Well…" Apple pondered. To be honest, Lance kind of drew her eye the most so aside from being polite or answering questions, she didn't interact with the others too much.
"Hey, Apple, I'm glad I found you."
The four girls turned and saw none other than the subject of their conversation, Lance himself, approaching them. Briar began to grin, with Blondie not far behind. Ashlynn was more subdued, but even she liked what she saw.
"Oh hello, Lance!" Apple waved. "We were just talking about you."
"Were you?" Lance grinned, coming up to the girls. "Good things I hope. Who are your friends?"
Briar immediately took her chance, "Hey there, I'm Briar Beauty. The next Sleeping Beauty. Nice to meet you, handsome."
"You as well," Lance nodded.
"And I'm Blondie Locks, the next Goldilocks!" Blondie cut in, retrieving her MirrorPad, "I'd love to do an interview with the next Lancelot and the other Knights of the Round Table if you have the time!"
"If I get the time, I don't see why not," Lance shrugged. He then looked at Ashlynn, "And you?"
"Oh, I'm Ashlynn Ella, the next Cinderella," Ashlynn introduced herself. "Nice to meet you."
"Nice to meet all of you," Lance greeted, his most charming smile in place. It certainly worked as Apple, Briar, and Blondie all sweetly smiled back. "Apple, I was hoping you could give me a private tour around Ever After High if you have the chance. There's just so much to see and it seems I could use some help keeping it all straight."
"Maybe," Apple grinned, nibbling on her lip. "How about you sit with us at lunch and after that we can...go explore a bit."
"I think I'd like that," Lance grinned. "It's a lunch date then." He waved to the ladies, giving them his roguishly handsome smile and then began heading down the halls.
"Oh, he is all kinds of just right," Blondie sighed, watching him go.
"Mmhmm," Briar admired. "Handsome, chivalrous, clearly knightly material, and a great smile. Apple, you know how to reel them in."
"You should see him in his armor when he's doing battle against evil monsters," Apple fanned her face. "Oooh, he's such a gallant knight when he does."
Briar turned to her friend, "So, how are you going to see if he might be your Prince Charming, or Knight in Shining Armor?"
"Through a thorough inspection," Apple replied with an innocent smile.
As promised, Lance joined Apple for lunch in the castleteria. As Apple was the most popular girl in school, only her closest friends would sit with her. On occasion, Daring would join her as well since he was her destined Prince Charming. So when Lance sat down with her, it caused a lot of people to turn their heads to watch this event unfold.
After lunch, Apple took Lance on a personal tour around Ever After High. She was really friendly, touching his arm as she giggled at a comment he made. He also smiled as she told him all about what made Ever After High such a magical place.
"This place helps you realize who you really are and embrace your destiny," she told him, gesturing to a wall of graduate portraits, all detailing past students and which story they were part of.
"Well, with a destiny like yours, I'm sure you have nothing to complain about," he replied.
"Yes, my destiny," Apple mused. "Lance, what do you think about your destiny?"
"Well, to be honest, it's all new to me," Lance confessed. "But if it got me to meet the fairest princess in the land, I have no reason to complain."
"Even if your story says you're supposed to be with Guinevere?" asked Apple.
Lance chuckled, "I have a feeling I'm not exactly Gwen's type. Besides, remember when I said that back home we all write our own stories? I'd rather write my story with you in it than her."
Apple giggled, flattered by that declaration, "So maybe I can write you into mine if you can be my Knight in Shining Armor."
"I'd be more than happy to fill the role," Lance grinned, making Apple blush at the thought.
This was when rumors about the new Lancelot and the next Snow White were set into motion. Many were confused. Why would Apple go with a knight, even if it was Lancelot, when she could have had Prince Daring Charming? Weren't they destined to be together? How could Lancelot have any role in Apple's destiny?
Some theorized it was because Lance had rescued Apple from the monsters that invaded the dorm and since then Apple got attached to him. Others thought Apple was just keeping her options open. A few even thought Raven was trying to disrupt Apple's destiny in an attempt to dodge her own. One thing was sure, no one really had any confidence it would last. How could a knight, no matter the pedigree, compare to a Charming?
Apple's own thought on the subject could have been considered a very not-Royal line of thinking. If Lance didn't have a destiny like everyone else, how could he fit into Apple's story? Well, Apple merely saw it as a way to build up Lance's destiny since he was already a knight and a gallant one at that. What better way to find her Prince Charming than to make her own?
What neither really could tell was that destiny was already in the works, just not the way fairy tales were used to.
It began as an innocent courtship. Of course, Apple and Lance were attracted to each other and made it clear.
All high schoolers, of course, have the right to have fond memories before they meet their destinies. Apple White, although a Royal, was more than allowed to do the same.
Only destiny had something special in mind for Apple and Lance!
Ever After High - Beast Training and Care
Apple and Lance were paired up for Beast Training & Care. Actually, it was more like Apple insisted on him being her partner.
"Wow, Apple. The animals really love you," Lance praised.
"It's just a talent I was lucky enough to inherit from my mom," Apple giggled. Several of the horses had surrounded her, being a little insistent on getting her attention. They didn't get to the point where they would snap at each other though.
Lance approached the horses and pet one on the neck, "So, we need to give these guys a nice brushing?"
"Yes," Apple nodded, patting one horse on the cheek. "The sweeties need some tender loving care to be amazing steeds for damsels and heroes. Who heard of a knight riding on anything less than a magnificent steed?"
"Not me," Lance laughed. He found the class care kit and quickly got to work on the first of the horses. "Okay boy, let's get you nice and princely."
Lance got to work, giving the horse a thorough brushing as the teacher had shown the class. Apple kept her adoring attention to help the horses stay still, or calm them down if they began to get unruly.
"Do you do this often with your horse, Lance?" asked Apple, stroking the horse's face.
"Not exactly," Lance admitted. "My horse, Noir, is a construct Merlin made who can survive the atmosphere of the Mirror World. He doesn't need to eat and I just polish him now and then."
"Oh my," Apple blinked. "The Mirror World doesn't sound very pleasant."
"Well, its atmosphere doesn't suit us, but it really looks the exact same as our world," Lance admitted. "Instead of people there are only Mirror Monsters."
"You're so brave to be able to go there to fight them," Apple admired.
"When the duty calls, knights like me don't think about getting scared," Lance chuckled. "We just go and make sure no one gets hurt by the monsters."
Apple beamed, seeing another example of Lance's knighthood. He was always so dutiful to the people he dedicated himself to protecting and was ready to leap into action when someone needed saving. It was clear that he was a true knight..
As the two chatted while they worked, a horse nudged Apple in the back, nearly pushing her over while another horse that wanted Lance's attention lightly shoved him towards Apple. Lance couldn't help but place his hands on her hips to keep her from falling and Apple found her hands on Lance's chest.
The two looked at each other in slight surprise. Neither could really say they were opposed to their current position. Lance always enjoyed Apple's company and being this close allowed him to just hold her and feel her warmth.
Apple wasn't so used to being in such close contact with a boy. Being held so close, and touching his chest, Apple felt herself growing flustered as her pale cheeks turned a rosy red. She looked into Lance's eyes and was unsure of what to say. Instead, she found herself just gazing into his eyes, at a loss for words.
Lance wasn't any different. He looked into Apple's baby blue eyes. He always knew she was beautiful, but just holding her so close and being able to see into her eyes made him realize she was more than just beautiful, she was stunning.
Apple also found herself thinking that Lance was handsome in a way that she was not normally used to. She was used to the classical handsome looks of boys like Daring, who had strong jawlines, shining hair, and other such physical qualities. Lance's good looks were humbler, not meant to show off or to draw attention. Instead, you could appreciate Lance's good looks when he began paying attention to you, and Apple certainly got a lot of attention being wrapped in his arms.
The two just seemed lost in their own world before a horse let off a whine and broke the spell between them. Both drew away, mumbling apologies. Apple merely nibbled on her lip, smiling at Lance. The Bat Knight would glance back at Apple and smile, both sharing a small laugh as they caught each other looking.
It was nothing short of a magical moment.
The spark had truly been lit between the two after that. Apple found herself almost excited, or even giddy when she and Lance would spend time around each other during the day. Lance found himself actively seeking Apple. The day just seemed to get a bit brighter when they began chatting with one another.
It was slowly growing more and more obvious that Apple and Lance had eyes for each other. They would constantly be seen together, chatting or sitting at lunch. They would laugh together, sharing whatever stories they had experienced at school. It was clear they were getting closer although many in the Royal camp thought it was just a phase.
Still, Lance truly enjoyed spending time with Apple and wished to keep things going. If he wanted to see how things would go, he was going to have to ask her out on a date.
And so the love began between the two, not that they really knew it.
But that began to change when the two had their first date.
Oooooh, how did it go?
Book End Library
Lance was thinking of asking Apple out on a real date. Normally, this was an easy feat for him. After all, back home, he was among the most popular boys in school. But the thought of asking Princess Apple White was causing butterflies to flutter in his stomach.
Harry watched his twin pace nervously, mumbling to himself.
"You know, I don't think I've ever seen you this nervous about asking a girl out," Harry remarked. "Usually you just call up some girl you're interested in and just ask her."
"Apple's not just 'some girl', bro," Lance retorted. "She's special and that means taking her out on a special date."
"Sounds like you really like her," Harry observed. Not an entirely unusual thing. Lance dated girls plenty of times just for fun. Sometimes he liked them and wanted to treat them right. He just wasn't used to seeing Lance being so into a girl that he couldn't muster the courage to ask her out like he normally would.
"Yeah, I've dated lots of girls but she's not like any of them," Lance replied.
"She is a princess," Max deadpanned, looking up from his phone.
Lance shook his head, "No, it's more than that. Call me corny, but she just makes everything seem brighter."
"You're corny but if you insist on showing her a good time, I recommend you take her dancing at the Red Shoes Dance Club," Max suggested. He discovered it not too long ago and despite what his appearance would suggest, he liked the atmosphere and music.
"I say take her to the Multihex," Tristan chimed in, helpful but clearly disinterested.
"Karaoke?" Ben offered with a shrug.
"Stroll in forest," Gawain suggested.
"She seems really into you. As long as you show her a good time, I don't think it matters what you do together," Arthur advised.
"Just try not to be careless," Rex warned. "Remember what it nearly cost you."
"I don't need to be reminded about that twice," Lance sighed. Deciding enough was enough, he looked up Apple's name on his contacts list and hit the autodial on his MirrorPhone .
Ever After High - Dorms
Apple White was in her dorm room, lying on her bed as she wrote in her diary. She was humming a lovely tune as she wrote a new entry. Lately, a lot of her entries included Lance in some shape or form, as he seemed to be playing a prominent role in her life since rescuing her. Not that she could complain, considering how handsome and charming he was. What princess wouldn't want more of that in her life?
She was alone in her room as Raven had gone out to spend time with Maddie. This meant she had the room all to herself. That gave her all the space she needed to gush and giggle as she remembered some magical moments she and Lance shared as she read the previous entries in her diary.
Her phone rang and she picked it up. She perked up when she saw it was Lance calling her.
"Once upon a hi, Lance," Apple smiled.
"Hey, Apple," Lance greeted back. "So, are you busy?"
"Well, I don't have anything on my schedule," Apple answered, twirling her blonde hair around her finger.
"Well, I was hoping, well, if you'd like to hang out," Lance replied, almost hurriedly as if he was nervous. Apple had to blink for a moment before she began to smile.
"Lance, are you asking me out on a date?" Apple asked coyly.
"Y-yeah. So are you interested?"
Apple wanted to giggle. Lance was so cute when he was nervous! Still, she didn't laugh or anything like that in case he mistook it as a rejection. With a glowing smile, she gave her answer, "Of course, I am. What do you want to do?"
Book End - Red Shoes Dance Club
Following Max's suggestion, Lance decided to take Apple dancing. They met in front of the Red Shoes and went in. The interior had red lighting to fit the mood and the music was really putting Lance in the right mood.
"I love this song!" Apple cheered and she grabbed his hand to pull him onto the dancefloor. He did not resist.
They started to dance and Apple was a really great dancer. Each step, each shake of her hips, they drew Lance's eyes to her. He started to match her steps and she smiled brightly at him. It could practically light up the whole room. The two danced together until they decided to stop for a drink
"That really worked up a sweat," Lance said as he and Apple sat at the bar with their drinks, taking a break from dancing.
"Whew, did it ever. I can't remember the last time I ever danced like that," Apple admitted, sipping her drink..
Lance looked over at the princess, "I thought you would have gone dancing with your girlfriends. You seem so tight with them."
Apple nodded, "Oh, we go out every so often. Briar and Ashlynn can really tear up the dancefloor."
"You seemed to be tearing it up pretty well out there."
"Only because I have such a great partner." Apple beamed, tapping Lance on the nose
A slow song came on and Apple blushed as she tucked her hair behind her ear. It was perfect, and romantic, as couples started to hold each other and lightly sway to the music.
"Could I have this dance?" Lance asked, holding his hand to her.
"Sure," she smiled beautifully as she accepted.
Heading back out to the dance floor, Lance wrapped his arms around Apple's hips as she did the same around his neck. The pair soon swayed to the music, gently moving as their eyes could see nothing but each other. Without realizing it, the two had been pulled into one of their magical moments as Apple smiled, leaning against Lance as they enjoyed the gentle sway of their dance and the soft beat of the music.
After their date, Lance took Apple back to her dorm.
"Say, Apple," Lance asked, holding Apple's hands in front of the door. "Could...could I ask you something important?"
"Of course, Lance," Apple nodded. Part of Apple was curious, although her heart skipped a beat, wondering if this would be when Lance would make a romantic declaration.
Lance licked his lips, experiencing that unfamiliar feeling of uncertainty again. Quickly banishing it, he forged ahead, "I-I know you have your destiny to think about, but I...I really like what we have so far. Could...there be any other way we could be together, like boyfriend and girlfriend?"
Apple bit her lip, her cheeks turning a bright rosy red as a smile threatened to come to her lips. Her and Lance, a couple? Like, together-together? Apple found herself really liking that idea. Lance was handsome, charming, showered Apple with affection, and he was protective of her. Apple loved that feeling of being safe and warm, protected by a gallant knight.
Her Royal beliefs were putting up some resistance, though. Her destiny was to have her Prince Charming wake her from her enchanted sleep with True Love's Kiss and live Happily Ever After. Lance wasn't a prince so she couldn't be with him, could she?
But...Lance didn't have a set destiny, did he? Yes, he was holding Lancelot's place but he could easily move to another story, couldn't he? More than that, while it was Prince Charming who Snow White was supposed to end up with, it really was whoever could give her True Love's Kiss that would be Apple's destined love. No one said they had to be a prince to do that.
Apple nibbled on her lip, her smiling threatening to split her face. She twisted her hands in Lance's, intertwining their fingers, "I...I would really like that."
"Really?" Lance blinked, wondering if he heard that right.
"Really-really," Apple confirmed, nodding.
Lance's face lit up. "So...now what?"
"Well," Apple giggled. "We meet up at school and we let all our friends know that we're together."
"I like the sound of that," Lance grinned, "So I'll see you tomorrow then...Apple Pie?"
Apple giggled at the cute nickname. She just accepted to be his girlfriend and he was already giving her a cute nickname? Oh, Lance had such an adorable side.
Apple leaned up and gave Lance a kiss on the cheek, "I'll see you then...Lancie."
Reluctantly letting each other go, Lance began heading back to Book End Library while Apple went to her room. Neither had been able to wipe off their smiles and Lance even lingered outside the dorms until he could see Apple at her window before he left. Apple just waved and watched him go, sighing dreamily.
"Had a good night?" asked Raven, raising an eyebrow.
"Simply magical," Apple beamed.
Oh my fairy godmother, that was so sweet!
Brooke, calm down. There's still more to read.
Needless to say, Blondie's Mirrocast had a field day as Lance and Apple walked into school together, holding hands, and very clearly showing everyone they were now a couple. It rocked the Royals more than a little, wondering just how Apple White of all people was starting a relationship with the next Lancelot. While Lancelot was indeed supposed to be the greatest knight, he was not supposed to have anything to do with Snow White's story.
Still, it was juicy gossip and everyone wanted to know more about Lance since Apple hadn't been serious about dating anyone, not even Daring Charming. Then Lance came to town with the rest of the Knights of the Round Table and swept Apple off her feet.
Some merely rationalized it as part of Lancelot's story. In his story, Lancelot was known for pursuing a princess who was otherwise spoken for. Lance was perhaps following his own story, deciding he liked Apple more than Gwen. It was well-known that Apple was keeping her options open as well. It was that mindset that kept anything about the Destiny Conflict from boiling over.
But that was the last thing on Apple or Lance's minds. They just wanted to enjoy being a couple and all the things that came with it.
Mirror Lake - Briar's Beach Bash
Briar's beach party would be taking place the Friday before Legacy Day. To celebrate such a momentous occasion, the next Sleeping Beauty had invited everyone to a huge party by Mirror Lake.
Apple would be going with Lance, her boyfriend, as her date. Even now, just a mere mention of their relationship, caused her to smile and blush. Not even Daring or any of her admirers had ever made her feel this special.
Daring and her were never truly hexclusive. Since their destinies were predetermined, he believed they would eventually be together and share a Happily Ever After regardless. That was why she allowed him to flirt with other girls and tried not to be jealous. However, to be honest, she would prefer if she was the only girl in his eyes.
Unlike Daring, Lance did not use his free time to hit on other girls or admire himself in the mirror. If he was not training or protecting Book End, he always made time to hext her, talk with her on the phone, or hang out with her. It made Apple feel special and like she really mattered.
When she put on her swimsuit, Lance's eyes couldn't leave her, making Apple feel very warm inside. They frollicked in the water and not once did his gaze wander to any other girl. If Daring was there, he would have stopped to wink or smile at any girl that passed by. In the past, Apple wouldn't have minded that since Daring was the most charming of Charmings and did have a reputation to uphold. Now, with a boy who was focused on her and her alone, Apple found herself enjoying that kind of attention.
As they sat down by the bonfires, Apple found herself pulled into Lance's lap. She was surprised by the action, but she liked it when Lance showed her his affection. Holding hands, hugging, and even just sitting in his lap to cuddle. He didn't hold her at arm's length, or treat her like a doll on display. Lance treated Apple like a girl and wanted to show her he cared.
Apple liked that kind of attention.
"Hmm," Apple sighed softly, pressed against Lance's warm body. She felt so warm and content, "This was such a good night."
"I agree," Lance looked over to where Ben had Meeshell in his lap, "Looks like it was just as good for others too."
Apple smiled at the adorable sight of Ben blushing, clearly unused to a girl's affections and Meeshell looking as content as a kitten to have gotten close to the shark knight who had unintentionally charmed her.
For the circle of friends and knights, it seemed there was something in the air. Raven was cuddled against Arthur, enjoying some roasted marshmallows. Even Duchess seemed mellow as she sat next to Kyle, but tried not to look like she wished to lean on him.
'If this is Happily Ever After, I'll take it," Apple thought contentedly to herself.
Looking up to Lance, who was roasting marshmallows to make s'mores for the two of them, Apple leaned up and gave a peck to Lance's lips.
Lance sputtered a little in surprise, "A-Apple Pie?"
"I couldn't help myself," Apple giggled. "Tonight has just been so wonderful. I don't think I want it to end."
"Me neither," Lance smiled, giving Apple a gentle squeeze. Sizzling caught his attention and he yelped, "Oh no, the marshmallows!"
Apple giggled as Lance tried to keep the marshmallows from burning.
Another milestone had been reached by the pair. Apple's first kiss and the realization that what they had felt so truly special. Apple finally knew what it was like to be with someone who wanted to do right by her. Daring was by far no means a bad guy, but he clearly had a roving eye while Lance did not.
Without truly realizing it, Apple was beginning to reject the classical retelling of her story. Instead, she was picking and choosing which portions she wanted to keep and what parts she wanted to change. She wasn't rejecting her story entirely like Raven would, but was instead changing it so her personal Happily Ever After could be reached.
Then came Legacy Day, the time where Apple and Lance would cement their destinies, although not in the way that most people would have expected.
Ever After High - Legacy Day
It was Legacy Day and Apple was looking for Lance to ask him something. She had butterflies in her stomach, hexcited to finally claim her destiny and become the next Snow White. Still, she wanted to spend the day with her Lancie to help her move past her doubts. She couldn't help but think about them while thinking about the current Destiny Conflict.
Apple found Lance just walking around outside the school. It sort of looked like he was on patrol and constantly looking at any window or polished piece of metal. No doubt he was looking out for signs of trouble, keeping Ever After High safe on one of its most important days.
Lance took notice of his approaching girlfriend and gave her a smile and wave, "Hi, Apple Pie. What's up? You should be preparing for Legacy Day right now. You're one of the main speakers, right?"
"Yes, but I needed a break," Apple admitted, walking to match Lance's pace. "Lancie...do you think I'm being selfish?"
"Selfish? You? What do you mean?"
"I mean, I want my destiny to happen so badly, but so many people are raising a fuss and are refusing to follow theirs." Apple bit her lip, "They seem so upset by it but following destiny has always seemed like such a good thing to me. I want everyone to have a Happily Ever After so I don't really see why Raven wouldn't want that."
Lance stewed on the question for a moment. He and the others knew Apple may not have had the full picture when it came to the destinies of other students like Raven. She just saw the bright side of everything, believing any punishment wouldn't be so severe since everyone knew that the good guys always overcame such adversity. Now how was he going to break it gently to his girlfriend?
Lance finally answered. Apple helped quell some of his doubts so it was only right he did the same for her, "You mean the one where Raven's the Evil Queen to your Snow White? I don't think there's anything wrong with wanting your Happily Ever After, but you need to think about what others want too."
Apple fretted, "But what if she doesn't follow her destiny? What happens to me? Our destinies are linked."
Lance shook his head, "I don't think it's the end of your story. It would just change a little. I mean, aren't we changing destiny a little by being together? Destiny says I should be stealing Gwen from Arthur but they're not together and I'm dating you."
Apple could admit that, "Some might argue that you stole me from Daring, like the last Lancelot did when he stole Guinevere from King Arthur."
Lance chuckled, "Yeah, sure, but what I'm saying is that even if the paths for our destinies might change, we can still get to our Happily Ever Afters. Who cares if a few of the little details change if we still get there?"
Apple took solace in that answer. She was pretty sure no story went exactly like the one before it, so maybe even if the players changed, the story could remain the same. That helped quell Apple's doubts as she smiled to her boyfriend, "Thanks, Lancie. So, see you tonight?"
"Wouldn't miss it, Apple Pie." Lance winked at her. Giggling, Apple went to continue her preparations for her big day.
Legacy Day was indeed a turning point for Lance and Apple. This would be the day where both realized just how they had stolen each other's hearts.
Just not through the Storybook of Legends like everyone expected.
The drama!
Legacy Day turned out to be anything but what Apple had hexpected. She did kind of hexpect Raven to resist, although she did hope her roommate could see how important their destinies were and sign the book. What shocked everyone was when Raven was shown a second destiny where she and who many assumed to be Arthur built a kingdom together and had their Happily Ever After.
It caused a fuss, to say the least and Headmaster Grimm flipped his crown, trying to keep Raven from signing for a second destiny so he could force her to sign for what he believed to be her 'rightful' destiny. Not amused by the Headmaster's interference, Arthur actually threatened him.
Apple had been confused by everything that just happened, but Lance was there by her side, giving her his support and helping her stay calm. Arthur certainly had a gift for speech as he pointed out Apple already had her Happily Ever After at hand with Lance.
But then the monsters appeared. The Sheerghosts swarmed everywhere, trying to grab anything alive or magical so they could eat it. It was fortunate that they were getting in each other's way and there was so much magic to distract them so everyone could escape. Still, the Knights of the Round Table stayed behind to fight them, worrying Apple to no end over her beloved boyfriend.
The students and teachers had taken shelter in the Enchanted Forest while the Knights fought the monsters back at the school. Apple found herself worried sick about Lance, fearing something might have happened to him. She had given him her favor to help him fight so he would come back to her, but it did little to ease her fears. It was only when Merlin and his assistant Mira showed up that she could see what the Knights were doing.
Apple could only watch in horror as Lance was buried under the Sheerghosts as they piled on top of him. The thought of losing him frightened her and she felt her whole heart was about to shatter like glass when she saw him vanish under the pile of ravenous monsters. So numbed by the sight, she barely heard Raven scream at seeing the same happen to Arthur.
[Survive!]
Apple's heart practically stopped when she saw the pile of monsters holding her boyfriend down suddenly explode. Emerging from it was the shining sapphire form of her beloved knight, somehow wearing different armor. In one swift motion, his partner likewise emerged in an explosion of blue, larger and more powerful than before.
Apple only started breathing again when she witnessed Knight and Ryuki shatter through the Sheerghost Spawner and destroy it, ending the Sheerghosts attacking the school at the same time.
"THEY DID IT!" Apple cheered, eliciting cheers from the other students. She nearly collapsed, crying in relief. The only reason she didn't was because she needed to get back to the school and find her Lancie so she could see that he was safe and sound again.
Almost before anyone else, matched only by the loved ones of the other knights, she turned and began running back towards Ever After High.
She had to find her Lancie!
Ever After High - Infirmary
Lance woke up from his sleep in the nurse's office. His body ached from all of the fighting. He briefly remembered the battle with the Sheerghosts, somehow upgrading his armor, and then he and Arthur shattering the spawner.
He couldn't remember how he got out of the Mirror World. The memories were fuzzy. Blinking, he rubbed his face with one hand, but realized that his other arm was being pinned down by something. Looking down, he saw the familiar form of Apple resting her head on his arm, eyes closed and looking like she had dozed off.
Lance smiled softly. Apple sure was a sight for sore eyes after all of the craziness from the Sheerghosts. Reaching over, he gently stroked Apple's hair, "Apple Pie? You there?"
Apple mumbled before shifting and sitting up. She yawned and rubbed her eyes. Looking to see Lance awake, she beamed, sighing in complete relief. "Lancie, you're awake."
"Yep," Lance smiled tiredly. "You okay?"
"Oh, Lancie, I'm fine thanks to you," Apple huffed. "I'm more worried about you!"
Lance chuckled. "Well, I don't feel like running a tri-castle-on yet, but I wouldn't say no to more TLC."
Apple giggled, leaning down to kiss Lance on the forehead. "Then TLC is what you'll get."
The pair cuddled before Merlin came in to check on them, earning groans and protests from the Knights as he sounded so chipper compared to their tired and battered selves.
And the romance between the pair was forged, made strong from mutual love and affection.
Some say they were defying destiny, but destiny is not so straightforward.
But, wait! There's still more!
Oh yes. Apple still had a strong belief in destiny, but more events will see her open her mind and embrace everything she has with Lance.
Ever After High - True Hearts Day
When she learned about Hunter and Ashlynn's relationship, Apple had a lot to think about. Her best friend was dating a Huntsman. He was not royalty nor part of her story. Up until that revelation, many believed her Prince Charming was Kevin the Gazelle Knight.
While some may argue that Apple herself was dating outside her story and thus going against her destiny, she believed that Lance would be her Prince Charming. A noble Knight of the Round Table was just as good as royalty in her eyes. It was a loophole she found in her story. Her destined one would be the one who woke her up from her cursed sleep. Knight or prince, their position did not matter.
But Ashlynn's story specifically required a prince who would find her and fit her with the glass slipper. She was worried for Ashlynn's future.
"Hm, deja vu," Lance remarked.
"Huh?" Apple blinked. "What was that?"
"Deja vu," he repeated. "This reminds me of when we first revealed our relationship. It was all everyone talked about. Now people are gossipping about Hunter and Ashlynn's relationship."
"Well, Hunter's a Rebel and Ashlynn's a Royal," Apple replied. "And you know they're from two completely different stories."
"Like we are?" Lance reminded.
"Well, that's different," Apple excused. "My destined love doesn't have to be a prince but Ashlynn's supposed to go to the ball, dance with the prince, and lose her glass slipper when the clock strikes midnight. Then, the prince finds her and fits the glass slipper on her and they'll be Happily Ever After."
"Seems that Ashlynn's already found her prince," Lance commented.
"But Hunter's not royalty," Apple argued. "Sorry, I'm not trying to be mean. I'm just worried about Ashlynn's future."
"You're a good friend, Apple, but you need to let your friends live their lives," Lance advised. "I'm sure Ashlynn and Hunter have thought about what this would mean for their destinies."
"And yet they'll risk everything just to date each other?" Apple questioned.
"Well, Raven took a risk on Legacy Day and the Storybook of Legends showed she had another destiny with Arthur. What if Ashlynn and Hunter have another destiny meant just for them?" Lance suggested.
"I..." Apple paused. Lance had a point. If the Storybook of Legends could present a new destiny for Raven and Arthur, then it was possible that Hunter and Ashlynn could write their own destiny together. "I guess you're right. Maybe everyone has the power to write their own destiny."
"So, does that mean you'll still come to the True Hearts Day party with me?" Lance asked.
"Definitely," Apple smiled. She may even run into Ashlynn and perhaps they could talk. She did not want to lose her best friend over her own beliefs. She just wanted Ashlynn to be happy. She just hoped she could actually talk about it after so long in believing there could only be one destiny for everyone.
Huh? But didn't Apple raise a fuss when Ashlynn and Hunter came out as a couple? I mean, she even broke out in tears on her bed.
Yes, but remember Apple had been raised her whole life to love her destiny and embrace it. Until that point, she thought her closest friend Ashlynn believed it too.
Seeing Ashlynn deny her destiny in such a blatant way was a very confusing time for her, so it's understandable she warbled between the two sides of the issue.
Ooooooh.
Ever After High - Thronecoming
It was the Thronecoming Dance and everyone was in the grimmnasium waiting for Melody to name this year's Thronecoming King and Queen.
A lot had happened recently. Raven had nearly been tricked by Headmaster Grimm into signing the Storybook of Legends, which turned out to be a fake. Then Apple, Cupid, Cedar, Briar, Ashlynn, Blondie, Maddie, Arthur and Raven had gone to retrieve the true Storybook of Legends but ended up finding the spell to break the curse on Giles Grimm.
Apple held Lance's hand as Melody opened the envelope to name this year's Thronecoming King and Queen. The blonde was nervous with anticipation. If she was named Thronecoming Queen, she hoped Lance was named her Thronecoming King.
"First, our Thronecoming King!" Melody opened the envelope and read the name, "Our Thronecoming King is...Arthur Pendragon!"
Apple sighed, disappointed. Well, she should have expected that. After Blondie's latest MirrorCast which showed Arthur in his Survive Form, many last minute votes were cast for him because of his heroic actions when he fought Calibur Knight and her Black Knights.
"Now, our Thronecoming Queen is...Raven Queen!" Melody finished.
Apple watched as Raven happily and excitedly accepted her crown as she stood beside Arthur. She felt a warm hand on her shoulder.
"Disappointed?" Lance asked.
"Kinda," Apple admitted. "I was really hoping it was us but I guess Raven and Arthur deserve this."
"Yeah, I'm a bit bummed I can't wear the crown but as far as I care, you're already my Queen, Apple Pie."
"That's so sweet, Lancie," Apple beamed.
KRC: As many reviewers mentioned in the main fic, Lance and Apple's relationship seemed rushed. Thus, these moments show how their romance developed since the first meeting and how they grew close until they finally fell in love.
TFP: People did mention the romances were rushed. I tend to focus more on the action in the main story and leave some things in the background. Remember the story isn't going from one day to the next, there are lengths of time between chapters or things happening to other characters. This document just shows what's been going on in the background, or when the focus of the chapter shifts. Plus, it's fairy tale land. Romance pops up rather quickly.