Beware False Profits
"The dark is generous. Its first gift is concealment: our true faces lie in the dark beneath our skins, our true hearts remain shadowed deeper still. But the greatest concealment lies not in protecting our secret truths, but in hiding from us the truths of others. The dark protects us from what we dare not know."
– Matthew Stover
It was stupid.
No one in their right mind would do it. Then again, Flynn Rider was not always in what one would call the right state of mind. Some would argue that he was never in any state of mind.
Nevertheless, this time, he did not have the luxury of choice. Even he had his limits. He had found a way, but it wasn't appealing. Finally, after painstakingly reviewing their notes together, Flynn and Norris understood that there was only one viably clean way into the throne room. One that was impossible on his own.
"I don't suppose the throne room has a convenient back door?" Flynn asked blandly. "Laundry service? Off-site catering?"
Norris shook his head.
"… Alright then. The good news is there's no catch at all this time! The bad news is, there is one catch, actually. The only way in is a long drop through a loose section in the roof, which means I will need someone to lower me in. Someone strong enough to handle my weight without trouble. You know anyone with muscle?"
Norris made a face. "…You won't like it. How much do you want the crown?"
Flynn snickered. "That's a question? I haven't wanted a royal fortune this bad since the last time I wanted one!"
"Well, with the whole kingdom on alert looking for you, very few people would be willing to stick their necks out for such a high-risk job on short notice. In fact, there's only one group who would do it."
"Anyone I've heard about?"
"The Stabbington Brothers."
Norris was right; he didn't like it at all. And his words were less than pleasant.
Flynn sighed as he negotiated through Corona's early morning crowds. The Stabbington Brothers. Yeah, he had heard of them. They were once sailors in the Southern Isles Navy until they realized underground work was much more profitable for people like them and jumped ship after only a year. They quickly became some of the best in the business when it came to muscle work, usually as enforcers or bodyguards. If they were even half as good as their reputation said, then the Stabbington Brothers were perfect for the final role of the job.
But there were also plenty of nasty rumors about them. Evidently, they had also deserted because they got tired of all the navy's "stifling morals" getting in their way. (Which was saying something, considering the Southern Isles Navy was run by one of the king's more infamous sons). Worse, there was also the way their partners often seemed to disappear or turn up dead. The Stabbington Brothers always came back alone with some big story about how their partner ran off or tried to backstab them. And every time, they were conveniently left with all the loot for themselves.
Yeah. This was probably stupid.
Still, as an outlaw of society himself, Flynn knew better than blindly believing whatever hearsay said of a person's luck or success, even if it sounded suspicious. Instead, he would keep an open mind and give them a fair chance until he could judge them himself. Especially since there was a lucrative prize on the line and the Brothers were his only option. In fact, the very prospect of mutual gain was usually enough. A job with great risk and greater rewards often ensures cooperation on its own, even among criminals.
The tricky part was what might happen after the job.
But the legendary thief wasn't like most people. He was Flynn Rider, the best there was, and he had dealt with their kind before. He could easily handle two thugs with more brawn than brains well enough for the job to go smoothly. And if they might think to pull anything for some reason, he would be ready.
Which was why Norris had pointed him to Xavier, the finest blacksmith in the city.
The forge was still cold as the early-morning light streamed into the open shop front. Subdued gleams of sunlight licked off the gleaming edges of the many weapons stored in racks around Xavier's shop, the anvil glowing warmly by the forge's heat as people bustled through the street. There weren't many yet, not this early, and Xavier had several things to do before opening for business.
Flynn waited as the big burly man raked at the stuff in the furnace before turning around. Then, a wide, friendly smile broke out across his dark-skinned features, and his rich, sagely voice rolled out like a welcoming red carpet. "Ahh, a customer, and so early too. You must be Norris' friend. Just a moment, I have your purchase here..."
The exceedingly well-built man gave a friendly grin and stepped to a long rack of swords, checking a few before lifting one down. He ran a thumb carefully along the blade before turning towards a circular stone. He worked a pedal to make it spin, pressing the blade's edge along the grindstone for a moment.
The handsome thief stepped into the forge a bit, rubbing his hands to soak in the heat. Corona was a comfortably warm kingdom, but the early morning fog rolling in from the sea was still chilly, and Flynn never liked the cold. "Mmmmm... appreciate it. Always nice to get ahead of the morning rush. Especially the grumpy folk who forgot their coffee. Yeeesh."
"Hahh, yes." The big man rubbed the sword's blade up and down carefully against the spinning grindstone. "It is sometimes good to savor the quiet things and take enjoyment in the peace of a sunrise."
Flynn couldn't help but smile in response. He liked this guy already. "Yeah, Corona is certainly pro-sun. You can see it on every banner around here. And the pained walls. And the tables, the plates, the spoons, the souvenirs, the toys... wow, the merchandise department really goes all out this time of year! Speaking of which, does a blacksmith even get much business during the Festival?"
"Of course he does. Though most of it is done after the Festival. Of course, the guards recently bought armor polish in bulk. Something about stains from a food fight."
The thief fought back a smug grin.
The grinding sound slowly faded as Xavier pulled the sword away from the stone and gazed along the edge with a critical eye. "Ahh, much better. A blade with a crooked spot will cut unclean. And how would I maintain my reputation for fine craftsmanship should I let even one crooked blade pass into the hands of a valued customer?"
He rose from the bench and selected a smaller stone from a small rack of them at the back of the bench, slowly running it against the edge. "Though I am curious why a young man of talent requires such a blade, this close to the Festival? Are you perhaps looking to perform? Sword tricks are quite popular with some ladies."
The man's bushy eyebrows bounced suggestively as he gave a broad and knowing grin.
"Hehehe... nope, I have no need of assistance in that regard, my friend! Certainly didn't need it last night either!" Flynn chuckled, thinking fondly of his delightful time with Giselle and the bathtub. And then the bedroom. Hours later, both people were left very satisfied. "No, I'm just heading out of town for the day to meet a business associate, and you never know who you might run into on the way."
"Ahhh, yes. Indeed, it is sad times when I man has to arm himself for a simple business meeting." The smith raised the blade, taking a thin sheet of paper and slitting it expertly along the sword's length. "Much better. Good. Yes, this shall provide a good argument, should the need arise."
The two discussed payment, and Flynn was surprised to hear that half the money had already been paid in advance. He smiled and gave a silent thanks to Norris as he tested the sword's weight with a few stances. "Wow, this is definitely a blade of quality! Nice work! Thanks, I should be just fine out there if someone gets any ideas."
"I always admire a man who can see the finer things in life." The smith gave a wide grin, his bushy silver beard parting with mirth. But sadly, it didn't last, as he gave a sigh. "I have gotten quite good at swords of late. It saddens me that such things are necessary now. Back in the days of my youth, it was a rare month indeed when a nobleman commissioned a sword for his personal use, much less a sharpened sword meant for a man to wield against other men. Times have truly changed since those days."
He turned away, his sad countenance taking in the bright and colorful streamers hung up by a pair of middle-aged women across the street. His gaze flicked from the bright decorations to his customer. "Tell me, young sir. Have you ever heard the Legend of the Golden Flower?"
Flynn blinked in surprise as he sheathed his new sword. "Uhhh… can't say that I have."
"A magical flower of angelic gold petals," Xavier explained with a storyteller's flair. "It is said that its mystical powers were that of life itself. Some believe it blessed our lands with fertility, providing harvests in abundance and enriching our people's health and spirit. Its essence even saved the life of our queen and her unborn child, which is why we honor it just as we celebrate our Lost Princess. But when the Golden Flower was stolen away, the bounty of our harvests and the vigor of our people went with it. And now we seem to be fading as well, like a rock being worn away by the waves of the sea. Our kingdom used to always feel blessed. When I was young, there was always something to eat. Ahhh, the times of plenty…."
As he spoke, a wistful and somber look had slowly overtaken Xavier's features. He seemed lost in his memories of a better time for a moment. Then he shook himself out of it. "Oh, forgive an old man reminiscing about the past. I hope I haven't spoiled your morning with grim thoughts. Thank you for your business. I wish you well in all endeavors, and please enjoy the Festival."
Flynn stared back with a nonplussed look. "… Sure. No problem. Good day." And walked away as casually as possible.
Still, the man's sagely words got him thinking as he navigated through the rest of the city.
The morning sun rose, and the streets were filled with people starting their day. But for a kingdom that revered the sun, few of them looked anything like a morning person. As he blended in at the marketplace to avoid notice, Flynn allowed his eyes and ears to wander again, and he saw things he hadn't spotted before. He had glimpsed it during his scouting of the city while planning the heist, but now he couldn't help but take a closer look.
Flynn's sharp ears were drawn across the crowded marketplace towards a well-dressed woman quarreling with a merchant.
"—this… misgui… empt… a joke, then… should… not amus…."
"… lady… don't think… funny eith…."
Against his better judgment, Flynn let his inner hawk spread its wings, broadening his senses. His vision and hearing popped. And as he had done thousands of times over the years, he could suddenly hear the two argue as if he was standing right next to them, shouting into his ear.
"—lly!? Twenty bronze coins for a pound of carrots? Are you trying to swindle me?!"
The man shrugged his shoulders, not budging. "The tolls to enter the city have gone up, apparently, and the roads aren't as safe as they used to be. Bandits, 'pparently. Not to mention yet another poor harvest. Hence, price's gone up."
"Your prices are unacceptable! This is twice as much as last month. My husband needs these to keep the horses healthy; you can't just—"
"Lady, for every harridan that comes to me complainin', I get four other folks who buy my wares because they're hungry. Now, are you gonna keep whinin', or are you goin' to buy something? Because you're holdin' up the queue."
The woman grumbled under her breath and fumbled about in her purse, but Flynn shook his head and turned his attention away. The thief let a long sigh while his eyes drifted in another direction.
His gaze settled on a group of men on the other side of the marketplace, watching their arms flail about as they heatedly discussed something. This time, it took only a second of concentration to hear their worried whispers over the noise of the marketplace.
"—you hear what I told you?! The ship from Seahaven was lost! All hands and all its cargo, gone!"
"Another one? That's the fifth ship in two months! God… ever since the king and queen of Arendelle were lost, it's like the seas suddenly aren't friendly anymore. If royals and even the Alliance aren't safe, who will help us?"
A derisive snort came from one of the men. "It sure as hell ain't going to be the Captain. That paranoid bastard just seized the ship that delivered the news. He thinks they know more than they're sayin' or that they might've even had somethin' to do with it! And no one's leavin' the ship until he's had everyone questioned and the cargo searched. Knowing him, it's gonna be a few days before we can get the food they were delivering. That's gonna hurt the Festival something fierce."
"It can't be that bad—"
"Blood of the Queen, are you really that stupid?!" the other hissed, throwing up his arms angrily. "World just ain't a safe place anymore! The seas are suddenly treacherous, the Duke nearly bled our coffers dry, and we barely have enough food to get by. Our queen is barren, and if King Frederic dies without an heir, it will be the end of Corona! The last nail in the coffin! And even if we had the Lost Princess back, what kingdom would want to marry a penniless princess with lands that don't grow crops anymore?! How the hell can this possibly get any worse, huh?!"
Everyone was quiet.
"So what then? What do you plan on doing?"
The man deflated, shrugging tiredly. "Keep our heads low and hope our homes don't burn down. What else can us common folks do, after all?"
There was grumbling and more harsh whispers, but Flynn turned away again. He spent another moment aimlessly watching the flow of the marketplace until he noticed something in another corner. He saw a man with nails stuck in his mouth hammering a large board across his doorframe, a woman tightly holding a child's hand next to him.
Flynn concentrated again, letting his practiced hearing wash away the noise like a wave receding back into the sea, and then—
"—we really have to go?" the child asked plaintively. "I like it here! I'll miss my friends!"
"I'm sorry, son," the man mumbled, taking out another nail and adjusting the board. "There's just no business for a jeweler here anymore."
The woman shot him an angry look. "This is all your fault!" she hissed venomously. "I had to sell my family's dowry to cover your debts! And now I have to leave my home!? Mother was right about you, bless her soul! You are a failure!"
The man's shoulders sagged, and he turned a miserable and broken grimace towards her. "Honey, please—"
"Don't you dare 'honey' me! It's your fault! All because you were a failure as a businessman!"
"Dear, would you—"
"But nooo, you had to expand your business. You had to sell more gems. God, if I'd known how it would end up with you—"
"Dear, please shut up for just a damned minute, would you?!"
The woman's jaw snapped shut, staring at her husband in something akin to surprise. Then her mouth became set in a thin line, expecting an explanation. The man lowered his eyes, ashamed, shook his head, and sighed.
"I'm sorry for yelling at you," he said quietly. "But there's nothing here for us anymore. Trade has stopped, my clients have lost their money… No one wants to buy jewelry these days. They only care to pawn it for the extra coin."
Her eyes narrowed. "And?"
He set the hammer down and reached out, taking her free hand into both of his own. "Let's go someplace else," he said quietly. "Albion. The country is rich and overflowing with trade."
Her expression became chagrined. "Albion? Is that your answer? That's all you can think of?"
"Please, dear, remember when we met?" the man said desperately, peering into her eyes. "When I was still traveling with that caravan? When your parents were trying to set you up with that stuffy banker? You begged me to take you away from your home, to take you around the world."
A faint, wistful smile crinkled her eyes. "I remember. Father absolutely hated you." The smile disappeared, aging her. "But that was a long time ago, Arthur."
"It's not too late," he said earnestly, raising her hands to gently kiss her fingers. "Let's go to Albion. No, even better, Agrabah! The city of mystery and enchantment! The people have more gold than they know what to do with, and the nobles pay big for their gleaming baubles; we'll be sure to make our fortune there! And I'll finally be able to take you on that voyage I promised you. What better place to start than the land known for exotic adventures?"
"I… I don't know, Arthur… It's so far away, and the people will be strange and foreign, and—"
The woman looked down when the little boy tugged on her hand. "Mama," he said quietly. "Don't fight. Don't you love each other?"
She startled, opened her mouth to speak, then shut it again and smiled. "Yes," she murmured. She picked up her child, kissing the top of its head fondly. "Yes, we do."
Her eyes darted to her husband, who smiled cautiously at her. "Let's go to Agrabah, then," she smiled back. "We might just find something new."
"Something better," he agreed, smiling back with relief. "I promise."
She shook her head and laughed, and Flynn snapped his eyes back, tearing himself away from the happy family. His vision blurred as he shook the heavy thrumming out of his ears. Lightly slapping the side of his head several times, Flynn briskly walked away from the marketplace without looking back. He really had to be careful when stretching his senses that deeply, already feeling a headache coming on. Even after years of practice, it sometimes felt like everything around him was so much.
No matter. Flynn had heard enough anyway.
"Criminy!" He muttered under his breath. "If this is how Corona looks during a royal holiday, I'd hate to see what an average day looks like…."
When one was told of Corona's history, it was once always known to be rich and prosperous. That it was a land famous for its delectable food and generous hospitality, filled with people happier and more spirited than any other. That it was paradise. And when one first glanced at its colorful trappings, it appeared to be true. But if you looked deeper, listened to the whispers spoken in corners, peered into its shadows… You might find a very different story.
The number of men and women begging desperately for coins and receiving very little altogether. The closed and boarded up shops, the thinned-out shelves on the market stands. The people argued with the merchants about rising prices. The little gaggles of citizens in their corners whispering fearfully about the overly strict Captain, their depressed monarchs, the dwindling coffers, the growing food shortage, the surge of pirates and bandits; some men and women exchanging scowling looks and muttering with discontent under their breath as a patrol of city guards made its way through the crowd.
Flynn had seen this before back in Nasaltown, with how the Duke's lavish and self-promoting party bled money from an already destitute people. The Festival of Lanterns was clearly a drain, but here it seemed to be a celebration the people truly wanted. Corona was undoubtedly loyal to the royal family, and the Festival gave them a much-needed measure of hope during hard times.
For all that it might amount to. The words of his friend from last night came rushing back to Flynn.
"If it wasn't for Arendelle, I don't know what we'd do. But even if Corona gets back in shape, that doesn't change the fact that the kingdom has no heir to the throne. If something big doesn't change, even I don't know what can be done."
The thief shook his head as he upped the pace of his walk. He had to get out of here. This place reminded him too much of his childhood at the failing orphanage, and he didn't want to think about that, no matter how much he sympathized. Besides, he couldn't do as he did with the Duke's people; more money wouldn't solve this kingdom's problem. And c'mon, he was Flynn Rider! A legendary adventurer, free of debt and society, tied down to nowhere! How could he live a glorious life if he just spent it worrying about things he didn't owe to anyone?
Just take the crown and go; he'd be out of here by the following day!
But even so, for Norris' sake, Flynn still hoped Corona would be alright. But how?
~o~O~o~
It was the same dream again…
Always the same nightmare…
A blurred disc of gold hanging above…
Eyes bulging with envy, reaching with shadowed hands…
"Flower gleam and glow…."
~o~O~o~
The morning was rising, and so too was the Daughter of the Sun.
Far out into the forest away from the city, the rising sun's light slowly crept over the hidden alcove where the tower stood. The breeze passed through the windows. It was gentle and inviting as it caressed the soft skin of the golden-haired maiden sleeping peacefully on top of her bed. She seemed to still be asleep. Her small pink lips quivering slightly was the only marker that the wind managed to get out of her.
Tap tap.
Her eyelids fluttered for a bit as she gathered her bearings, her dreams running away from her.
Tap tap.
Rapunzel's heavy eyes drooped open to find Pascal barely an inch from her face. She blinked. Pascal blinked. His paw was raised as if he was about to start tapping her mouth again—the typical sign for requesting food.
"In a minute, Pascal," she softly mumbled.
The chameleon pouted, unimpressed.
Rapunzel closed her eyes, trying to get some extra rest.
A moment passed. Her stomach rumbled.
She cracked open an eye, looking down at her grumbling tummy. "Quiet!" She whispered, hushing her stomach with a shush.
Defiantly, her tummy rumbled again. Rapunzel groaned, pondering what she should do for a moment, but her mind was quickly made up. "Fine." She rolled her eyes, glaring at her waist. "I'll feed you, you ravenous beast."
Rapunzel slowly sat up in bed, blinking her sleepiness away. She arched her back, stretched her arms, and yawned deeply. Then, suddenly, the young woman stiffened.
"Flower gleam and glow…."
The dream came back to her in a terrifying flash. The dark room. A disc of gold. Horrifying, bulging eyes reaching for her with greedy hands, singing the song of her magic hair. The nape of Rapunzel's neck prickled, and an old fear rose. Her pulse skipped as the terror she felt in her nightmare returned with a vengeance. The image of those hands tore at the edge of her imagination like a rat's tiny claws, searching for a small chink to escape from memory into reality. Rapunzel's hand shot up behind her neck, unconsciously clutching the singular of brown hair, the eternal reminder of when the villainous denizens of the world had once come for her.
As much as she loved her birthday and the chance to see the Floating Lights again, this was also the time of year when Rapunzel's dreams turned into frightening nightmares. The nightmare of her oldest and most terrifying fear.
Seeing his cherished friend's turmoil, Pascal darted up Rapunzel's arm and clung to the hand against her neck. His entire complexion shifted to a calming blue as he held onto her with comforting reassurance, rubbing his cheek against hers. The young woman's naturally empathetic senses picked on her animal companion's intention. Rapunzel's surge of fear slowly but surely waned like the morning mist.
"Thanks, Pascal." Her smile was full of affection, even as she let out a long sigh.
The outside world was dangerous, especially with how all its people were hunting her for her gift. And yet, no matter how much fear she felt, Rapunzel's dream to see the mysterious Floating Lights remained pure and untainted. Her mind could not bring itself to think that the beautiful lights were a trick or a deception like everything else in the world. They meant something important; Rapunzel just knew it. And while her heart glowed at how thoughtful, scared, and protective Mother was for her, didn't she at least deserve the chance to try?
And with a jolt, Rapunzel remembered that today was when she would finally earn it.
"That's right! Today's the big day! I'm finally going to ask her!" She turned her head to see Pascal's reaction, but the chameleon only pointed at his mouth, wanting to be fed. Rapunzel pouted, "I can see you're as excited as I am." she said sarcastically as she tickled his little tummy. She glanced at the time; 7:00 am sharp. "Now come on, it won't be long before Mother's back! We've got work to do!"
With a skip in her step, the fair-skinned blonde rushed back to her bed to fix the covers. There wasn't much to do; she usually slept above the covers with her slender body wrapped nicely under the comfort of her golden hair. Then she coasted out the door and slid down the staircase railing, her long golden locks trailing behind her, before proceeding to the rest of her usual morning line-up. She brushed her golden hair, changed into her favorite lavender dress, and did the many, many chores that Mother wanted.
Everything had to be perfect, better than flawless! She had to show that she was ready! Mother was hard to impress, all because of how cruel and heartless the people of the outside world were. She had stumbled a few days ago when she had thoughtlessly upset Mother, but she wouldn't give up just yet! The dream was worth it! It was always worth it!
'Sweep till the floor's all clean! Polish and wax, do laundry, and mop and shine up! Sweep again!'
Rapunzel had long memorized every chore; Mother had made sure of that until the chores were a habit for her. Every motion and step was well-practiced, and over the last few days, Rapunzel had pushed herself harder than ever to achieve perfection. Everything soon became a blur until she blinked in surprise, finding herself simply standing with a broom in hand. She was already done? Rapunzel glanced at the clock.
7:15 am?
Wow, she only took fifteen minutes?! That was even five minutes faster than Mother usually asked for, a new record! Rapunzel couldn't help letting out a small squeal of delight, bouncing on the soles of her feet. 'How's that, Mother? See how good I am at all the work?'
Even so, she took a few more minutes to triple-check everything. She couldn't leave even the smallest detail to chance if she wanted to impress Mother to let her go. She had to; if she had to wait another whole year to see the Floating Lights, Rapunzel feared she might go insane.
However, she found a wonderful surprise during her checks: the blue dress she had made for Mother was missing from the wardrobe! She had worked hard the past few days to fix it to Mother's specifications. Did this mean Mother was finally wearing it?
"Yeeeessssss!" Rapunzel squealed again, sharing a tiny high-five with Pascal. What an excellent omen!
With the chores all done and a delicious morning breakfast prepared, she rushed upstairs to her room. Mother would be back any minute now, and Rapunzel's spirits felt higher than ever. Her angelic voice sang a merry tune as she gathered up her hair and began joyfully tossing it high into the air until it gracefully fell into a swirling pattern around her. The young woman's cheeks were aching from her wide smile, but she couldn't help it! Today was the day she proved herself!
Rapunzel ran to her window, breathing in the morning air as she looked out at the great world beyond the tower.
And the world welcomed her in turn. As Rapunzel closed her eyes, she felt the wind caressing her cheek with tender care. As the sunlight touched her again, a shimmer of golden light flowed across her hair, as it did for every reunion after being separated by nightfall. Her flawless skin seemed even more radiant for a moment, almost luminescent. Rapunzel relaxed and smiled, embracing the blissful sensation as it flowed through her like a warm river of milk and honey.
She leaned against the windowsill, resting her chin over her arms as her green eyes wandered the vista before her. The morning dew cooled the summer air that flowed through the open window. The healthy emerald grass below the tower swayed in the clean, crisp air, and a stream of pure water glittered in the sun. The clouds above were wispy and light, and the sun blazed in perfect clarity. And beyond the rocky alcove isolating her, the world stretched out to distant horizons she could only imagine.
Oh, how Rapunzel wanted to step outside! Mother was so worried that she wouldn't let her even just set foot in the clearing below. And yet, it never stopped her from dreaming of more. Instead, it felt like the earth itself was always calling out to her, beckoning in invitation. The desire was so strong it was almost frightening! To feel the earth under her feet instead of stone, stretch and bask openly under the sunlight, feel the open wind flow through her hair, touch the colorful plants and lush trees, and dip her toes in the fresh spring water…
A small flock of canaries flew by, as pure in a bright color as Rapunzel's hair, chirruping sweetly at her. She couldn't help but smile; every bird that came near the tower was friendly and comfortable around her. She was always fascinated by their colors, how bright they were, and how prettily they sang. No matter how dull or dark the world seemed, the birds always shone. Their song was the most beautiful thing.
And as she watched the canaries fly away, to soar above the stone wall and into the world beyond, what Rapunzel loved most about them was that they were free. Free to go wherever they wished. She wished she could be like the golden birds that matched her hair.
Inevitably, her gaze drifted to the small opening in the stone wall. The entrance to the outside world that Mother always disappeared through and then returned with food and other mysterious things. If it was this beautiful here, she could only imagine what breathtaking wonders and excitement lay beyond it. A world without walls, where she could run and leap with abandon! It was always there within eyesight, yet it always remained out of reach.
Rapunzel hugged herself as more thoughts about the outside world formed in her mind, feeling her skin erupt with goosebumps in her excitement. She couldn't wait to see what this world was like. What would it feel like to be fast and wild and free? What would it feel like to feel?
The thought brought her both excitement and disquiet. Rapunzel looked over her shoulder, staring in longing towards a most cherished work of art. Over the years, to give life to her colorful imagination and avoid boredom, Rapunzel had painted each and every inch of the tower's interior walls. However, the canvas she had recently created above the fireplace held a special place in her heart. A portrait of the Floating Lights emerging from behind the giant hilltops to cover the entire night sky. And just below them, sitting above the treetops, was a young woman gazing up at them with a river of golden hair trailing behind her.
The Floating Lights were all she ever dreamed about. Once she could finally see them for herself, everything would fall perfectly into place! With this one trip out there, Mother would finally see she was ready to handle the outside world, and then her life would finally be—!
"Rapunnnnzzzel!"
She gasped at the familiar voice as she looked back out the window, down at the foot of the tower. There she was, waving up at her!
"Let down your haaaair!"
"Coming, Mother!" Rapunzel called back as she turned away from the window. Anticipation swept through her frame; her heart was beating so fast! "It's finally time! Oh gosh, this is big…."
Pascal snapped into a proud at-attention pose, grinning confidently.
"I know, I know!" Rapunzel smiled as she lifted her friend from his perch, glancing conspiratorially at the window. "Now, come on, don't let her see you!"
The chameleon nodded vigorously, holding up a paw in a bold manner as if to say, 'you got this!' Then he scampered off into a dark corner of the room, the color of his hide smoothly shifting to blend in with the shadows.
"Rapunzel?" Gothel called out expectantly with a touch of impatience. "I'm not getting any younger down here!"
Rapunzel almost blanched— quick quick quick! — and rushed to perform the ritual they had done thousands of times. Taking her hair in hand, she hung it through a steel hook hanging from above and smoothly cast the rest out the window in a practiced motion. The seventy feet of silken gold fell to the bottom of the tower in a long, taut line. Gothel caught the very end, arranged it in the shape of a noose, and planted her boot firmly in place. Then, after a signaling tug, Rapunzel pulled on her hair, and Gothel began to ascend into the air.
Endowed with the magic of the Golden Flower, one of Rapunzel's gifts was the possession of extraordinary strength that belied her slender frame, far surpassing that of most mortal humans. It certainly came in handy for always carrying around seventy feet of such thick and lush hair as though it were weightless. Not to mention adding the weight of a fully grown adult. And yet, as Rapunzel lifted Gothel up the height of the entire tower and in through their window, she was not even breathing hard.
"Hi, Mother!" She beamed as she hugged the woman close. "I've missed you so much!"
"Ugh, Rapunzel," Gothel exclaimed as she fluffed out her greying hair before putting a hand to her heart. "The way you manage to do that every day for me without fail! It is so thoughtful of you, yet it must be so exhausting."
"Oh, it's nothing!" Rapunzel waved it off, chuckling with a proud smile.
"Then I don't know why it always takes so long!" Gothel lightly scolded with that warm yet patronizing lilt in her voice. Almost immediately after, the woman brightened and her shoulders shook as she chortled as if she heard the silliest thing. "Oh, don't you worry, darling, I'm just teasing!"
Then without another word, Gothel simply handed her the two baskets of food and firewood before, as always, heading straight for her mirror.
Rapunzel's smile became strained as her eyes followed Mother. She glanced down at the baskets and mentally sighed at the slight delay but knew how important it was to take care of Mother, especially after another trip outside. But as she moved to unload the firewood and fresh food, something caught her eye as Gothel tossed aside her black cloak.
"So, Mother… that's a nice, new dress. I don't think I've seen it before."
Indeed, Gothel was wearing a fancy, form-flattering crimson dress with a faintly dappled pattern. The dress had gold trimmings, a flowing hemline that reached her feet, and a matching belt-like sash with a gold buckle. It brought attention to her voluptuous and curvy figure while remaining modest and tasteful. She was also wearing golden earrings and a fancy necklace with several of those 'glass stones,' as Mother called them.
She had definitely not ever seen this outfit when she cleaned Mother's wardrobe three times a day.
"Hmm? Oh, isn't it lovely, Flower? Very good for noticing!" Gothel preened at the compliment as she looked herself over in the mirror. "This dress was definitely meant for me, but good heavens it was expensive. The people in the city are so monstrously greedy and self-centered that they've increased prices all over the place. I mean, honestly! I actually had to sell one of my own dresses to pay for this."
Rapunzel went still, feeling a horrible, engulfing sensation creep over her. She slowly looked up from her work on the firewood, her eyes wide and lips trembling, but could not bring herself to look in Gothel's direction. Mother had sold one of her outfits? But there was only one dress that had been missing from her wardrobe…
"One of… your… dresses?" Her angelic voice was threatening to crack.
"Quite so, my darling! To actually give away something of mine! But fortune was especially favorable to me today," Gothel answered from behind, not looking away from her reflection. "I mean, it was the strangest thing, but I found it in my closet last night. Really, I don't know why I kept that ragged blue thing for so long, so it wasn't any loss. And my my… this was more than worth it!" She patted her hip proudly.
Rapunzel flinched as if she had struck. She could almost hear something inside her break into a thousand pieces. "Y-You mean the b-blue dress I made y-you?"
"Hmm?" Gothel asked distractedly. Then the words sunk in, and she froze. "Oh! Oh my goodness, Rapunzel! How silly, your mother must be so exhausted from her toils that she's not remembering everything!"
The next thing she knew, Gothel was stroking her shoulder and running a finger through her golden hair, cooing into her ear. "How thoughtful and wonderful of you to realize I needed a new outfit, and then you threw something together so I could buy what I really wanted! You are such a wonderful thing."
But the young girl could only stare off in heartbroken silence. She had worked so hard on that dress. She spent over a month thinking about the design, then two weeks putting it together, and then spent the last few days tirelessly trying to fix it. She put everything she had into it to make Mother happy, fueled by her dream to see the Floating Lights. And Mother didn't even try it on? She just gave it away without a second thought?
Why would she? If Mother forgot about the gift so readily, it was because Rapunzel had gotten everything completely wrong. How could it even be called a gift, then? Why couldn't she ever be good enough? A daughter that Mother could be proud of? It's only more proof that her work wasn't good enough, and Mother had to go through all that trouble to get another one. Even after all her work trying to fix it, she still wasn't good enough. The reason Mother stumbled like that was because she didn't want to hurt her daughter's feelings. It was so sweet of Mother to make Rapunzel feel better about her worthless efforts.
"No tears, Rapunzel." Gothel reminded her. "Come now, your mother still got what she needed, and that's all that matters. So turn that frown upside down and stop taking everything so seriously."
Rapunzel began to smile as she was told. But, then again, maybe this was a good thing after all. Perhaps the idea that her work still got Mother a lovely dress would still put her in a good mood! The dress may not have turned out as she had planned, but everything was still on track. It was all or nothing now, and she still felt her chances were great!
"I'm glad you're happy, Mother! In fact, there's something big coming up! In two days, my—"
"Just a moment, Rapunzel. Like I said, your Mother is feeling exhausted and needs her sweet remedy. So be a good girl and sing for me. Then we'll talk."
The young woman brightened instantly. Nothing put Mother in a better mood! "Oh, yes! Of course!"
Rapunzel became a golden whirlwind. She rushed around the room, seating Mother in her favorite chair, pulled up a small stool, handed her the hairbrush, and then sat down to sing, all with a swift and energetic pace that actually startled Gothel.
"Darling, what—"
"Flowergleamandglowletyourpowershinemaketheclockreversebringbackwhatoncewasmine!"
"W-wait, wait!" Gothel did a double-take, eyes wide with surprise. It was as if a wizard had cast a Fast-Forward Spell on Rapunzel. Her head was jerking back and forth with the melody, and the magical glow was rapidly surging across her hair like it was released from a high-pressure steam valve.
"Healwhathasbeenhurtchangethefatesdesignsavewhathasbeenlostbringbackwhatoncewasmine!"
"Wait!" Gothel frantically began brushing the enchanted hair, just barely in time as the magical flow flooded into her with a soft fwoomp. All at once, Gothel's hair bounced high up as it regained its midnight black hue, her curves abruptly filled out again, her skin flipped over to a healthier color, and the wrinkles blinked out of existence. And just as quickly, it was over.
The woman blinked, then shook her head clear of the dizzying rush of magic. What just happened? She had never been fully rejuvenated so suddenly in all her centuries.
"Rapunzel!" She spoke, more confused than reproachful. Then she had to bend back as a highly animated Rapunzel was suddenly in her face.
"So, Mother! Earlier, I was saying that something big is coming up in two days, and you didn't really respond, so I'm just going to say that it's my birthday!" The golden-haired girl hugged Gothel tightly. "Ta-daaaa!"
"Again?" Still in a good mood from the magical healing, Gothel opted to indulge Rapunzel's playful spirit as she gently pushed the girl's overly familiar contact away. "No no no, I distinctly remember we did your birthday last year."
"That's the funny thing about birthdays," Rapunzel chuckled back. "They're kind of an annual thing. Who knew?"
The young woman's enthusiasm died down as she reached the moment where she would finally ask the big question. The gravity and importance of this moment were not lost on her. It was the culmination of everything that Rapunzel had worked for, and it was as sobering a thought as it was nerve-wracking. Unconsciously, she began wringing a lengthy strand of golden hair. "M-Mother, I'm turning 18, and I w-wanted to ask… ugh, what I really want for this birthday… or, heh, what I've actually wanted for quite a few birthdays now…."
"Rapunzel, please," Gothel sharply interjected, rolling her eyes. "The mumbling. You know how I feel about the mumbling, running your mouth all 'blah-blah-blah-blah,' it's so unladylike and very annoying, and oh, I'm just teasing because you're so adorable, I love you so much, darling!"
The dark-maned woman shifted from giving a blatantly belittling lecture to gushing with a baby voice as if it were second nature to her. Gothel then gave her an impish tap on the nose before heading for the kitchen. Not another word was offered about her coming birthday.
Rapunzel stared after her, both hurt and dismayed. She was already wasting Mother's precious time, so she was already losing interest.
A familiar soft squeak reached her ear. Rapunzel glanced to the side and spotted Pascal in the corner, waving with his paw, encouraging her to keep going. Her oldest friend was right. Stop fretting and just say it! Rapunzel pursed her lips together, bracing herself, and blurted out, "I want to see the Floating Lights!"
Gothel paused, then turned in confusion. "What?"
"Oh! I was hoping you could take me to see these!" Rapunzel moved to the fireplace and parted the drapes, revealing her latest painting of the Floating Lights.
The older woman was completely still as she stared at the painting with an unreadable look. Then she smiled sweetly. "Ahhhh… you mean the stars, darling."
It was not a question. But Rapunzel was ready this time.
"That's the thing, actually! I've been studying the stars for years because of this. I've charted stars, and they are always constant, the same position on every night of the year!" Gothel's features dropped in surprise when Rapunzel brought her attention to a series of rough but remarkably accurate astronomical charts she had painted. Positions of the sun across the year, phases of the moon, numerous star constellations, and even mapping of Mars' orbit. "But these lights, Mother? They only appear on the night of my birthday and always at the same exact hour! So they can't possibly be stars!"
Gothel's left eye twitched. The child was getting unacceptably close to the truth. Furthermore, these charts demonstrated a growing intelligence and understanding of advanced subjects that Gothel most certainly didn't teach her. "Rapunzel. What did I say about disagreeing with your mother?"
But Rapunzel was moving at full steam. "There's more to these lights, I just know it! Mother, you've always told me how special my gift is! So why do the Floating Lights always appear on my birthday without fail? Like they're meant for me? Surely it isn't a coincidence! There might be more to my gift than we know! These lights might have the answers! And that's why, for my 18th birthday—"
"Rapunzel, do not even think of saying—!"
"Mother, I want to go outside the tower!"
Silence fell over the tower, as quiet and still as the winter mountains. In the alcove outside, various critters became skittish. It felt as though an unspoken line had been crossed. A pair of barn owls huddled tightly in their nest, instinctively spreading their wings to shield their unhatched eggs from danger. A warren of rabbits froze with their hair on end, feeling like they had just entered a predator's den.
Rapunzel felt herself suppress a shiver that crept down her spine. "It-it would only be for a few hours, just to see the Floating Lights! We don't even need to go near the city, I just need to see—!"
Whatever she had been expecting, it was not for Mother to suddenly burst into hysterical laughter. "Oh! Oh, my goodness, you want to go outside? Where have you been hiding that sense of humor, darling? Do you really believe that things are so simple? That everything revolves around your dreams? Oh, no. The world is far from what you imagine, child. It is dark and cold, harsh and violent, brutal and unforgiving."
With a final tone, Gothel marched over to the window and closed the shutters, locking them tightly, before turning back with her sweetest smile yet.
"It's not a question of 'when' you'd be ready, Rapunzel. I mean, just look at you… fragile as a flower! Still a little sapling, just a sprout! You know why we stay up here in this tower," Gothel cooed. Her hands possessively took Rapunzel's long enchanted hair to rub against her cheek like a cat rolling blissfully in its favorite ball of yarn. "To keep you safe and sounnnnd, dear…."
Rapunzel stared as Gothel stayed that way for several minutes, looking positively euphoric as she cradled her hair. It was sweet that Mother was so loving and protective of her, but she couldn't help but feel something was off. And before she could say anything, Gothel was already in motion again.
"My child, you may dream about going out there, but that is a big mistake!" Gothel spun around, gesturing at their home. "Just look at the home around you, right here in our little tower! Such wonderful things around you! What more are you looking for? No, instead, there comes a day when you must look around and find that happiness is where you are."
Rapunzel was growing increasingly worried. She had never seen Mother act like this before.
"But I guess I always knew this day was coming. Knew that someday you'd want to leave the nest." Gothel put the back of her hand to her forehead as she gave a drawn-out sigh, perfectly pitched and full of heartbreak. "Today's that day? Perhaps so, and I must teach you the stark reality."
"But—!"
"Shhhhh… trust me, pet." A frightening gleam entered Gothel's gray eyes. "Never forget, Mother knows best."
With a sudden movement, Gothel snatched up the golden hair and spun it tightly around the girl's face. A muffled cry sprang from a startled Rapunzel. She couldn't see, she couldn't breathe! In a frantic rush, she clawed and shook her own hair off.
"Mother, wha—?" Her breath caught in her throat. She couldn't see Mother. She couldn't see anything. Everything had gone dark, as if shadows had engulfed the world around her. Black and silent, like the grave.
"Uhhhh… M-M-Mother?" She weakly called.
A long, groaning shriek sounded from off to one side, making her jump in alarm, but the darkness was so powerful that she couldn't even see her own hand in front of her face! The gentle flutter of something batting against her hair made her duck, and she nearly clouted her face into what felt like some sort of stone arm! She desperately looked in every direction, but all she found was more endless black, like the yawning void.
Fear. Haunting, overwhelming fear began to mercilessly invade Rapunzel's senses. Her skin grew cold, and her bones felt acutely exposed. What was happening? Where was she? Was she even in the tower anymore?
"Mother! I can't see! Where are you?!"
"Oh, you sad, foolish child," Gothel's haunting voice suddenly echoed from everywhere and nowhere. "You think to face the horrors of the world? Its unending villainy?"
Rapunzel stumbled slightly as her hair was suddenly yanked, a claw like a twisted branch wrenching her long tresses. Stars exploded in her eyes from the pain, and through them she seemed to see a leering face, a pale ghost-shadow, hollow pits of eyes staring at her from the darkness! Rapunzel screamed as she fell down, frantically scurrying back on her hands and feet, but the face had already vanished.
Oh no… no, no, no! Where did it go?! Rapunzel swallowed, her entire face buzzing. She wasn't alone; something was here with her in the dark!
"There are villains without number!" Gothel's voice called out. "Ruffians, thugs, cannibals! Men with pointy teeth! And they want you back, Rapunzel!"
Teeth. Sharp, pointy teeth! Her scrabbling hands were pricked, sharp teeth nearly snapping shut on her fingers as she jerked her hand back! Soft clicking laughter echoed around her, the Men with Pointy Teeth mocking her for trying to run away!
"They are looking for you... they will find you… and they will take you!"
'Take me?!' A wild epiphany fueled by terror flashed through Rapunzel's mind and enthralled her. All of a sudden, she knew where she was. Her nightmare! It had found her, followed her into the waking world!
Spinning discs of gold! Eyes bulging with evil! Bony hands with claws reaching to take her!
The single lock of brown hair tingled at the back of her neck. Were they here? Had they come for her?! Rapunzel hunched over and clutched her head, wanting more than anything for it to stop!
"Out there, every hand is turned against you. Even the ground beneath your feet carries the seeds of your demise!"
Her feet slithered on a suddenly slippery surface, the gritty stone beneath her hands as she slammed into the floor. A breath of something noxious and nauseating made her stomach twist and turn!
"Poison ivy, quicksand! Snakes! Large bugs and webs! The plague!"
They were everywhere! She was being watched from all sides! She could see their eyes on her, dozens of eyes, her skin crawling as the looks of avarice and sadistic evil stroked over her, pawed over her like the claws of a rabid beast, and she couldn't get away!
Rapunzel wanted to stand, but she couldn't do it. She wasn't capable of facing this madness. There was no hope… This had to be a dream! She had to still be asleep in bed! She needed to wake up! Rapunzel pinched her wrists as hard as she could. The darkness remained. Wake up! She shook her head back and forth, wake up! She slapped her cheeks several times WAKE UP!
"Mother, help me!" She screamed. "Help me! I want to go home!"
"Home? I thought you wanted to go outside and look at pretty lights?" The voice taunted. "What are you waiting for? Go ahead and leave me! Go ahead, get trampled by a rhino! Go ahead, get mugged and left for dead! When it's too late, then you'll see, just wait… because Mother knows best."
"I'm sorry!" Rapunzel cried out, sobbing hysterically. "Please! I was wrong, I didn't mean it! I'M SORRY!"
"Never forget that you will always be a sad, gullible, naïve, weak, ditzy, foolish, and ugly little girl. Never anything more than a child."
Tears poured uncontrollably down her face, eyes blind with a painful haze, sweat streaming from her brow, as she tried to breathe and stay conscious… she couldn't breathe… she curled up into a ball on the floor… wrapped herself in a gold cocoon of hair… it felt like invisible fingers were gripping her neck, squeezing tightly, she couldn't breathe, and then the desperate need for air air airairairairair hands reached into her hair and pulled her back out and she was on her feet and suddenly she could breathe air at last air!
She spun in place, staggering as her hair was jerked upright. A sound of sliding metal, as if the unsheathing of a sword, and sudden, dazzling light flooded her eyes, golden from the locks of hair wrapped about her head. She clawed them away, gasping in relief, as the inside of her home met her eyes.
She could see! No monsters, no death, nothing even out of place. Light flooded through, spilling from the open window like water from an overturned jug, and there to one side was…
"MOTHER!"
Gothel held her hands out to Rapunzel, a soft, tender smile on her lips. Her eyes were soft, warm, and welcoming as the girl rushed into her arms, wailing and sobbing into Mother's shoulder.
"Shhhhh… there there, my dear. That's it… Mother understands. Mother is here to help you. Only here in this tower, Rapunzel. Only I can ever keep you safe. Do you understand?"
Rapunzel vigorously nodded through her tears, clinging tightly to Mother as if she were a lifeline. What had she been thinking?
"Don't ever ask to leave this tower again. You could never handle yourself out there, darling. The world is dark, cruel, and without mercy. If you were to actually find a 'nice person,' you would be the greatest explorer to ever live. Am I clear, Rapunzel?"
Rapunzel looked up, having finally stopped shaking, her eyes still red with tears. "…Yes, Mother."
"Splendid!" Gothel was inwardly grinning with triumph. It was much too easy. A few tricks at blocking out the sunlight, a couple of tugs in the dark, loudly adjusting furniture to make ominous noises, a simple mousetrap to snap at her fingers, a little spill of a noxious-smelling potion on the floor, and the lousy brat's malleable mind did the rest. "You know I love you, right?"
"I love you more." Rapunzel managed to smile.
"I love you most. And that is why I know what's best for you," Gothel placed a firm hand on her shoulder. "We're family, Rapunzel. The only thing you should ever worry about is listening to your mother and taking good care of her. Do you understand, my Flower?"
"Yes, Mother," Rapunzel answered in her empty and demure Good Girl Voice.
"Don't forget it, or you'll regret it."
Rapunzel nodded and leaned her head against Mother's shoulder once more. Her eyes tentatively drifted to the window, the outside world just beyond. She was so foolish, thinking she could've defended herself from its dangers. But as terrible as they were, nothing was devastating as the crushing realization that her dream was not to be. She would not be simply waiting another year for the lights. The truth was that she would never see them at all. They would still be there but always cruelly out of reach.
She was not a canary. She was nothing like a bird, neither free nor able to go where she willed, let alone do as she pleased.
Her life was over before it began. Rapunzel was going nowhere.
~o~O~o~
Night had fallen once again.
The forest trail wasn't as easy to follow as Flynn had hoped, but it was still noticeable, even in the moonlight. The old forest was peaceful at night, with just the hint of insect burr and quiet birdsong. Occasionally shafts of moonlight decorated the scene. The scent was earthy, with an aroma of living fragrance and cool, sweet air. Flynn found himself breathing deeply, not out of exertion but to simply bask in the natural beauty. It was a calm place, picturesque in a way he didn't get to see very often.
At least, up until someone just had to shine a venomous green light between the trees and make it creepy. Well, that was the signal. 'Best get this over with.'
The two figures standing by the stone boulder looked alike at this distance. They were definitely siblings and ugly with a capital 'Ugh.' The one holding the lantern that glowed with the dim green radiance was slightly taller than the other, lean and crafty, yet his sleeveless green shirt showed off his powerful muscles. His brother was stiff and stockier, and even with the armored vest he wore over his shirt, it was evident that he too was built like a bull. Both of them greeted him only with a long stare as he approached, glancing at each other as the taller of the two lowered the lantern and half-closed the shutter, which Flynn could now see was carrying some unusually bright fireflies.
"You're late," the tall one spoke. His voice was like a cross between a tiger's growl and a fine blade's edge running over wood. "We were wondering when you were going to turn up."
Well, this was moody.
Flynn plastered on one of his best smiles as he came forward, mentally raising his guard a little as he recognized the ploy. He was perfectly on time, but they implied otherwise as a means of throwing a new partner off their game. Not that he was so easily fazed. "Hello, my new best friends as of four minutes ago! The name's Rider. Flynn Rider. I prefer my cream whipped, not stirred."
The two of them shared a silent glance, then rolled their eyes.
This close-up, he could see them more clearly. The Brothers were actually twins. Interesting. They were also as big as Lance, and their jaws were almost as big as the Captain's. A permanent scowl was etched on their faces, their red haircuts and big eyebrows were nearly matching, and like Flynn, both had their weapons within easy reach. But it was also clear that no one ever had trouble telling the twins apart. Even without the differing outfits, the sibling with the armored vest wore an eyepatch over his left eye. The brother without an eyepatch had extremely distinctive sideburns and a curved scar on the right side of his face.
Okay, they were exceedingly well-built, but Flynn doubted they had a permit for faces that ugly.
But even as he measured them up, he could feel them doing the same.
"So, this is it?" The one with sideburns stepped closer with the luminous green lantern, almost into his personal space. Flynn was rather tall at the impressive height of 6'1, so it was mildly unsettling to look up at a man who towered a full head above him. "You're supposed to be the great Flynn Rider? Heh, you look like a pansy pretty boy carrying that purse around."
"Eh?" The thief glanced at the accessory hanging from his shoulder. "Purse? C'mon, it's a satchel! But anyway, you know of me, obviously, but I'm afraid you have me at a disadvantage, Misters…?"
Stoic silence.
"Hey, don't leave me hanging. This is where partners introduce themselves. With, y'know, their names?"
"Why?" The other man asked. "It's not like you'll need to remember them once we're done."
Yeah, that wasn't at all ominous…
Flynn glanced at the second member of the Stabbington duo, the one with the eyepatch who had yet to say a single word. The one with sideburns followed his gaze and merely chuckled before stepping back.
"Don't bother. My brother doesn't talk much with other people." He patted his sibling on the shoulder. "He's not as… polite as I am."
The one-eyed man nodded with a menacing smile.
Listen carefully when the serpent speaks, for its tongue is forked, and its words have two meanings.
Flynn mentally nodded at his idol's words but doubted these two thugs were that cunning. The Stabbington Brothers weren't the sharpest tools in, let's say, a box of spoons. But that didn't mean he shouldn't be cautious. Even if they weren't as cunning or sneaky as snakes, they were probably just as dangerous.
He shrugged. "Alright, if you're not going to tell me your names, then I'm gonna have to make some up. Oh, I know!" He snapped his fingers before pointing between them. "You be 'Patchy', and you be 'Sideburns.' You're Sideburns now, okay?"
Instantaneous Death Glares!
"What? Like you said, it's not like I'll need to remember them after we're done." Flynn grinned unrepentantly. "Besides, a pair of muscular sword veterans were coincidentally named 'Stabbington' at birth? Well, unless someone's parents were excellent fortune-tellers…."
The now aptly named 'Sideburns' narrowed his eyes to slits, clenching his large jaw hard enough to crush iron. "You're a smart one, aren't you, Pretty Boy?"
"Yeah, you need to be when you're so often underestimated. Speaking of surprises, you won't believe what kind of job I've got for us! Enough money to set you fellas up for years!"
The Stabbington Brothers were almost fuming, but their doggy ears perked up at the mention of big money, and their temper vanished in seconds. Then, with a long deep breath, Sideburns crossed his arms and stared firmly back at him. "Fine. To business, then. What does the great Flynn Rider need us for? It had better be good."
"You want something special? Well, how about…." Flynn's smile grew wider as he theatrically spread his hands out. "… the Crown of the Lost Princess?"
The look, the look on their faces! The two brothers were visibly surprised as their guard completely fell apart for the first time.
"A crown." Sideburns repeated. "A princess' crown? Why would we want to do something so insane?"
"Money, of course!" The thief answered blandly. "We both like the idea of being rich. So I figure, why not pool our talents and shoot for the top?"
"Just how long have you been putting this caper together?"
Flynn shrugged nonchalantly. "Eh, about half a week."
"…You really expect you can just waltz into the royal palace and get away with it?"
"No," Flynn said simply. "I expect to take the crown and get away with it. Who doesn't love a bit of sexy danger?"
The twins stared, then looked at each other, then back at him uncomprehendingly. "Are you crazy?"
"Yeah, I'm crazy!" Flynn flippantly grinned. "You've heard who I am, what made you think I was sane?"
For once, Sideburns didn't know how to respond. A common reaction for most people when exposed to Flynn Rider.
The slack-jawed brothers shared another look. Patchy shook his head while Sideburns sighed and ran a palm over his face before leveling a stony gaze. "Oh, yes. We've heard the stories. People say that you're a legend. That you're some big shot who can take whatever he wants. Someone that probably thinks he doesn't need to share the glory or the treasure with anyone else."
Where did this suddenly come from? The handsome outlaw held his hands up. "Hey, come on, fellas. I'm not asking for your hand in marriage or anything weirder. Just for some help on a job. And that's all it still is, a job. We break in, grab our prize, then go our separate ways. Just like that."
"Let's get one thing straight, Rider," Sideburns stepped forward with a severe glare. "If you're trying to trick us any way, anyhow, you won't go anywhere. You'll know, 'cause you'll find something sharp stuck in your throat."
Each of them tapped their blades for emphasis.
"Oh, would you guys relax? You're talking to a pro. Do right by me, I'll do right by you, simple," Flynn reassured them. Time for the sales pitch. "Besides, don't you ever dream of the big score? Of finding the prize of a lifetime? A treasure trove with more gold and silver than you'd ever know what to do with? Well, I've got a golden opportunity for one such prize, and the payoff will be huge. We're talking buy-your-own-fleet-of-ships huge!"
A beat.
"…Go on."
Flynn reached into his satchel and unfurled a scroll, revealing a detailed sketch of the crown for the Brothers. "See this sugar-baby? Made from the purest gold, not a single speck of it isn't covered with perfectly cut rubies, pearls, and diamonds. Some of them are even bigger than a man's finger! This thing is so priceless that the royal family only dares to bring it out from its vault once a year… and that day is tomorrow's Festival. For twenty-four hours, this juicy jackpot will be just sitting there, itching to be taken. And yours truly has a plan to do just that, from right under their noses, and to be gone before they even know it. The heist of the century!"
There it was. As the legendary thief spoke, the twin's expressions had changed from vaguely menacing to contemplative. He had piqued their interest. Now it was a matter of reeling them in.
Flynn smiled as he stashed the scroll away and crossed his arms. "So, now that you've threatened me and all… are you in or not?"
For several minutes, silence reigned between them. Neither side moved; there was only the gentle sway of the forest wind as fireflies darted between the trees, and crickets were chirping from the shadows. The Stabbington Brothers stared at Flynn carefully before glancing sideways at each other once again, sharing a silent conversation from a single look.
Then Sideburns hoisted the lantern and gestured with his head. "Follow us to camp. We'll hear you out."
Flynn dutifully nodded and kept pace right behind them. They wandered through the trees and the mossy ground for a short while, stepping carefully over the roots. Silence was their only companion, as not a word was spoken during their trek. But soon enough, they arrived at a modest campsite nestled discreetly behind a large outcropping of rocks. The site had a motley collection of supplies and weapons scattered about. A large tent was set up, and a healthy campfire blazing nicely, casting a warm orange glow against the rock wall. Strangely enough, they had no horses.
Patchy wordlessly moved over a large barrel and set a large wooden board across it, forming a makeshift table. Sideburns the lantern down and draped a cloth over it, shrouding the firefly light, and then brought out an oil lamp for the new table. Unsurprisingly though, they kept their weapons on their persons.
"Alright, Rider," Sideburns gestured to the table. "Talk. And don't leave anything out."
A closed hand holds many secrets. When you make a fist, you can never shake hands.
Flynn reached into his satchel and smoothly spread his papers out across the board, the sketch of the crown, detailed maps, diagrams, and notes, and got straight to business.
"First of all, soldiers guard the outer perimeter, day and night." He traced his finger over several highlighted routes around the castle and close to the barracks. "There will be fewer guards at the palace than usual to oversee the Festival in the city. Not to mention searching for me. But they will still have thirty men at minimum, and their patrols are extremely efficient, walking in tight, organized circles around the place. Especially since their Captain will be stationed with them for the whole day, overseeing everything personally. And the crown? It's kept in the center of the throne room itself, both for extra protection and some idea of symbolism and whatnot. And if they catch even a whiff of trouble, the crown will be the first thing they'll lock up."
The twins bent over the table with Flynn as they studied the maps. Patchy grunted, and Sideburns nodded. "So, no brute force then. We 'ave to be sneaky, all hush-hush."
"Exactly." Flynn nodded. "It's not the simplest thing, no. Every entrance uses armored doors, and every ground window has reinforced bars. This is the royal palace, after all. But…" He looked up from the map with a devilish grin. "There's not a fortress out there with no weakness. And this one's no different."
"Patience happens to be our weakness." Sideburns warned in a low voice, still skeptical. "So stop with all your dramatic pauses and get to the point."
So serious…
"Ahem," Flynn looked back down. "I hope neither of you gets vertigo, because the best way to get the crown isn't by going through or around the guards but over them. My investigations have discovered there's a loose opening in the rooftop directly above where the crown will be located. And that's where you fellas come in; a strong set of hands to help open that panel, and then you lower me down on a line before pulling me back up with our prize."
"That's gotta be at least sixty feet off the ground." Sideburns frowned. "How do you expect us to get up there? Ride a pegasus? Or perhaps we fly with some magic pixie dust?"
Flynn chuckled and simply pointed to a map of the city itself. "We start down here at the river, northwest of the castle. There's a hidden entrance to a forgotten secret passage built centuries ago as an escape route if the palace was attacked. I've scouted it several times; it's still completely intact, and the guards don't even know about it." His finger traced across the paper to the palace itself. "The tunnel will take us directly inside a storage room on the third floor of the castle's west wing. Once inside, a large window in the same room—no shutter, no bars—will lead us directly to the castle roof. From there, we've got a series of towers and scalable rooftops. It'll be a snap for us to traverse across them to the top of the throne room. Then we pry open the roof panel, and voilà!"
Suddenly the atmosphere started to shift as various eyes looked at one another. The merits were beginning to show, the possibility of success starting to dawn on them.
"Alright, your plan's not half-bad, Rider. This could work," Sideburns slowly nodded. "But even if you hide it in that purse of yours—"
"It's a satchel!"
"—it's still the royal crown. This idea of yours would bring down way too much heat on us. That's not exactly conducive to our health."
The other man was right. Corona was already on edge, thanks to the scare he gave the Captain earlier. It would go into complete lockdown after a heist like this. No ships would be leaving the kingdom until after the Festival three days from now, anyway. The ships would also be searched from top to bottom, and a headcount of every crew member would be made. Staying in Corona was simply out of the question.
"Excellent question, my friend," Flynn smiled. "But don't worry, I've got it covered."
He brought their attention to another map. "It's simple. By the time they realize what's happened, we'll already be out of the kingdom. And see this little fishing town here? Two days south of the city. My contact says one of the ships leaving Corona, the Fitjabranden, will be making a quick side-stop there a week from now. The captain's brother is in town doing some business and needs a pickup before sailing back to Arendelle. That's our ride."
The Brothers snapped their heads up. "Arendelle? You want us to travel all the way to the northern kingdom?"
"Trust me, I've done this many times," Flynn held up a hand. "Slipping away to another kingdom altogether is always the best way to drop off the map when there's too much heat on you. It's why I never get caught. Plus, Arendelle is peaceful and has plenty of food and lodging. It's a great place to hide out for a few weeks."
"Hmmmmm… alright, makes sense. And then what? Even if we're home free, you still haven't said how we're supposed to get paid."
"I got a friend of a friend up north there, a day's ride out of the capital. She'll sell the crown for us on the black market, no breadcrumbs and no questions, while we lie low in the meantime."
"Oh, really?" Sideburns raised an eyebrow. "And just who is this special Arendelle contact of yours?"
"Nuh-uh-uh, that's for me to know until we get there." Flynn hadn't forgotten who he was talking to, nor was he foolish enough not to have an insurance policy. "Only I know her address and the password to do business, just like how only I know where to find Corona's secret tunnel. Anyway, once we have the money in hand, we'll split and then split, ride off into the sunset, and that's all she wrote!"
With the plan laid out, the Stabbington Brothers were quiet as they gave the proposal more thought. The doubt was only just melting, though. It had not yet fully evaporated.
"It's certainly impressive, but this is still a big job with major risks, Rider." Sideburns leveled his stony gaze at him. "Stealing from a royal palace is no joke. Maybe to a crazy pretty boy like you, but we need more assurances than that. Because right now, all we're hearing are promises. Promises of a payout that only happens if we pull this off."
Flynn tilted his head, briefly in thought, then he nodded. "Fair enough. How's this for assurance?" He promptly dropped a pouch of fifty gold coins on the table.
The Brothers quickly opened it, and each scooped out a handful of gold. Patchy took one and bit down on one of the coins. He licked his lips for a moment, then gave his brother a slow nod. Fifty gold coins alone were enough to last anyone for six months. It was also a clear testament to Flynn's reputation for success.
"And that's just a taste of the feast to come, my friends. Because this job I'm offering will pay a thousand times that."
The twins glanced at the gold before sharing a long look. Then they smiled at each other. "Alright, Rider. You got yourself a deal."
Sideburns spat on his palm, Flynn followed suit, and the new partners shook hands.
"Then tomorrow morning, it's to the palace! We seize the day, we seize the crown! Riches untold! Mayhem abound! Tax evasion! This is gonna be great!"
A hard and sobering chapter. But the night is darkest just before the dawn, and the dawn is almost here. A new day is about to begin for everyone, the day when everything changes forever. At long last, the events of Tangled will finally begin next chapter!
Something about writing this chapter felt easier for me than most others. I'm definitely in the groove again, and now I'm caught up to the film itself. But I especially owe thanks to my mystery Guest Reviewer who left a most wonderful and heartwarming review about what my story meant to them. Absolutely inspiring! I wrote this whole chapter in less than two weeks! That's a record for me! Like I've said before, Favorites, Follows, and especially Reviews always add more fuel to my writing spirit! So please tell me your thoughts!
Special thanks to my beta DarkDragonFires12, as well as to Vyrexuviel who helped me work out a few toughies in this chapter.
Disclaimer: I do not own the Disney franchise, nor the Tangled film or the TV series. Everything original that you see, such as OCs, are mine.