Her vision was blurry.

Weslin was certain it didn't have anything to do with the dried blood keeping her left eye closed either. Her sight should work regardless of her physical eyes. She differed from Soul in that way. When she had been younger, her father had used herbs to take her sight from her. They had found that her future sight was still intact. It was comforting knowledge to have, though the beating her mother had inflicted on her father for temporarily blinding their child had been a steep price to pay.

She took a deep breath, trying to peek ahead but she yielded nothing. Wes scoffed, resting her hand on the swell of her stomach. "That only leaves you, little one." The child beneath her hand wiggled, and she felt herself smile. "Well I'm glad you're having a good time."

Finally, a little bit bled through the cracks in her mind. She strained to see it, the demon in her blood clawing at her consciousness. She willed it away, desperate for a glimpse of her brother. Her stomach raged against her, her head spinning as she tried to hold on. The herbs Medusa kept shoving in her face made her limbs feel heavy, but she pushed on.

Before her mind's eye, trees sprawled like an ocean. The smell of pine overwhelmed her as she was able to focus in on a body. The hair was dark, hands raised in front of a The Forest. The air itself seemed to go still, and Wes found her own breathing had stopped. The body dropped their hands, as they did so, blood poured from the trees, raining from the leaves. The blood didn't stop at the edge of The Forest, it travelled like a poison through the small villages, it's course set for the castle.

Wes screamed, her eyes flying open as she returned to the tower that held her prisoner. Her chest was heaving, shaking fists clenched together as she tried to calm herself down. She wasn't always accurate. She wasn't in her best form either, her child making it harder to accurately use her sight, but she was always able to find Soul in the darkness.

Gods of Sea and Sky, she wasn't sure what she had just seen, but it seemed to spell out the end.

It was impossible to light a fire when breath was indiscernible from smoke.

Blake leaned back from his pyramid of thin twigs, hoping to let the flame he couldn't see breathe. A shiver crawled up his spine but he tried not to respond to it. He had done well so far, keeping himself covered against the sudden brutal cold The Forest had thrown at them. The temperature seemed to drop further still, his fingers turning red as he rearranged twigs into a better position. The rustle of fabric broke his concentration, and it settled around his shoulders.

Kid sat down next to him, rubbing his hands together. Blake fought a smile, wrapping the Prince's cloak around him tighter. "You looked miserable."

"Ain't you?" Blake cracked his knuckles, trying to spark a flame again. Finally, the fire ignited, consuming the dry leaves around it. Blake grinned, leaning back from his success, next to Kid.

"Less miserable now." The Prince sighed, small smile on his lips. Blake nodded. They day in silence for a while, waiting for Maka to bust through the silence with news. She had chased the Hell Child up a tree, trying to scout out which direction they needed to go. Between the fight with the Elves and the long suffering snow, they had more than lost their way. Maka refused to let them wander any farther, it would be easier if they could see any sort of anything in the distance.

They would need to get more food soon as well, but to do that, they would have to leave the snow. As if nature itself could hear their thoughts, a gust of wind rushed the two men, light catching the snow falling from tree leaves, like diamonds falling around them. The Prince shivered and Blake threw part of the cloak around him. The Prince paused for a second, before moving closer into the heat of Blake's arm. "Thanks."

"No one should freeze to death."

"I couldn't think of a worse way to go."

"Ain't the worst." Blake shrugged. "Kinda like falling asleep and never waking up. Peaceful I guess."

Kid didn't know how to answer that, except to move closer, so the other warrior could get warmer. If he crossed a line, Blake didn't show it. In fact, he moved in even closer as well.

The Prince couldn't explain why that made him smile.

"Don't fall."

"Then stop bossing me around!" Soul hissed down at her from high in the trees. He was a nimble bastard, Maka had noticed that early on, but these branches sparkled with ice, and the last thing she needed was for the Hell Child to fall and split his head open. He climbed even higher, almost to where she couldn't see him anymore. There were several beats of silence before he finally spoke again. "You won't believe this."

"Try me."

"About five miles north, it's spring."

"Really!?"

"Aye. And ten miles from the season's border? There's…. There's a city. Bright lights, even in the daylight."

"That's the Fae, it has to be!" Her excitement spilled off her tongue. The Fae weren't a predictable bunch, their attitude towards outsiders changed with the direction of the winds, but Maka had to make her way to that city.

She was almost certain that was where her mother was.

There would be risks, bringing her boys along with her. The Fae may not be kind, and they would especially not want to welcome the Prince into their city but… But she had been missing half of herself since she had been left in that poor village of her father's, and she wanted more than just a drunken confession over ale. She wanted to meet the woman who carried her. Maka wanted answers from her, and if she had signed away her blood to a spider, she wanted one thing for just her.

Soul jumped down from the trees, wobbling on the ice as he landed. She offered him her arm as he steadied himself. He exhaled, a cloud following his breath. Maka was about to say something, but Soul's hand shot down to hers, wrapping around her wrist. "Why would we disturb the Fae when we could pass around them." It was a question, but his tone wasn't questioning, he was accusing her. She took a step back, resting against the tree. He followed her step, trapping her between him and the tree. Her breath still mingling with the air, creating a soft cloud between them.

"Release-"

"Maka." His eyes were narrowed as his grip tightened. "We are close to the end of this damned mission. There is a real chance we can return back to our lives after this. I may actually be able to save my sister. The only way we'll live for sure is with you. Maka, if we lose you, there is no hope. Please, tell me why we would go to a Fae city."

"I don't like your insinuation." Maka hissed through clenched teeth, annoyed he had seen through her so easily. "If we try and avoid them and they catch us? Then not only are humans and a demon trespassing on their land, they were rude enough not make themselves known, and we die. If we go through, let them know we're there? There's something to be said about manners."

Soul glared at her, eyes boring into hers. She met his gaze back, forcing her words into truth through conviction alone. She wasn't lying to him, the Fae were fickle about how they were treated, and it was in their best interest not to cause offense to the biggest magical group that currently resided in the Forest. Any ill will towards them would be lessened if they were strong enough to make their presence known. "If they kill the Prince, I won't get Wes back."

"They won't kill the Prince. Probably."

Soul groaned, releasing her wrist from his grip. "Fine, I'm going to trust you Dweller-"

"Call me Maka or stop addressing me." She spat at him, patience wearing thin.

"Maka. I'll follow you. But don't let me down."

"I haven't before."

The border between the seasons was charged with magic.

Kid could feel it engulf him, his skin breaking out in goosebumps as he left the cold of the winter. It was surreal, how he could take two steps and suddenly the snow melted into lush grasses, wildflowers poking out from stumps of trees. Blake seemed most relieved to find the sun again, stretching his arms outwards.

The Star Clan survivor truly was riddled in scars, Kid could see that clearly in the new light. The lines up his arm ranged from soft white to violent pinks, new skin still forming over fresher wounds. He gave a cheer, a massive grin on his face. From behind, a snowball connected with the back of Blake's head, the man whirling around with fire in his eyes.

Kid followed his gaze as well, watching Maka and Soul both point to each other at the same time, both with accusations against the other on their lips. Blake howled his revenge against the two of them, and it took Kid a minute to realize he was smiling. The Prince had lived his life with respect towards the laws and ordinances his parents had put forth. He had never questioned why the Dwellers had been pushed back from the Humans, or why Hell Children had to be killed.

He was beginning to see now that the laws enacted by his parents may not be for the benefit of the people, as much as it was the benefit of the ruler. There wasn't a balance of power between the Dwellers, Demons and Man. Hell, the human slaves themselves were often treated very poorly, and not once had he considered that they deserved better than they had. Being a leader meant also realizing how blind you truly were. Kid wanted better for this kingdom, and those who lived in it. After this mission, he would talk with his brother. Perhaps he could be an advisor to the crown once his brother took his birthright.

If he could save a few lives like those of his companions, he might just prove himself useful even as a second son. The Prince had never thought himself an ambitious man, he knew his place, and he knew he was never meant to sit upon a throne. Never had he mourned such a thing, power was never in his grasp and he had understood that since he was young.

But now he felt action stirring in his chest. Kid was able to so clearly see how a partnership between those his father had spurned would help them more than it would ever hinder them. The Dwellers could help heal, the Demons could help protect, and Star Clan deserved an apology from the crown.

He felt the smile on his face grow bigger, a fondness he didn't recognize washing over him as he saw Blake began his revenge against Soul and Maka, snowballs from where winter ended reigning down on them. These were good people, and he knew he had a duty to protect them as they had already protected him.

He could remember standing with his father when he was very young, back when his mother's garden had only been sprouts and the misfortune of the Hell Children had not yet been decreed. The King had clapped a hand on his shoulder, his large hand was warm, it seemed to overpower even the sun. "There are many ways to rule, my son. You'll have to decide if you rule with fear or love, and which failure is more bearable when your empire falls."

The idea of his kingdom falling had seemed so foolish when Kid was young. His father had been a warrior unheard of in history, there was no man alive or dead who could stand to the King. His kingdom was nearly guaranteed to outlast several generations. Yet here he stood, the Second Son of the King of the Damned, Second of his name, in the middle of The Forest.

His father was dying, his kingdom was threatened, and Kid was left wondering how the empire would fall. Blake looked over at him, a wickedly charming grin on his face as he threw his arm back, snowball aimed for Kid. The snow hit him square in the chest, and laugh fell from his lips.

Kid would rule with love, he didn't believe it would fail a ruler in the end.

A string of mushrooms halted their process.

Maka held her hands out when she saw the line, the boys skidding to a stop behind her. They were waiting for an explanation, and she was able to see Soul's mouth draw up in a scowl. "What's wrong with the fungus?" Blake asked, squatting down to get a closer look. They were a spectrum of colors, some of them seemed to shine as if they had their own personal suns, others gave no indication that light had ever touched them.

"It's a Fae Ring," Maka sighed, watching Blake jump away from them immediately. They looked at her expectantly, and she steeled her nerves. "I want to go through the city, if we try and go around we will lose more time, and we risk being discovered by their border guards. If we are caught sneaking away, they'll have immediate reason to distrust us. If we face them amicably, I imagine they'll be kinder."

"But you don't know for sure." Blake's tone was steady, however his eyes betrayed his unease. Blake had always been willing to hear her out, and she was grateful for that. She would need him to trust her still, she wanted him to have faith.

"No, I don't."

"I hate to sound selfish, but I can't imagine they'll be very excited to see me." The Prince had his severe frown on his face again and she exhaled slowly. The air around them was warm, and the scent of the flowers was inviting. She felt compelled to step over the Ring, and find who she could only imagine were the Dwellers that gave her parentage.

"I know it seems foolish, but I fear what will become of us if we don't show ourselves to them. They may find our attempt to avoid them a worse insult than walking straight into their city. I don't wish harm on any of us, but I do fear there will be more facing us if we refuse to face them."

Her group was silent a few moments, the Prince eying the Hell Child. "Well Soul? What do you think?" Maka turned to look at him, face blank as she waited for him to speak. He took a few more moments before he closed his eyes.

"She hasn't lead us wrong yet. And the Dwellers who wish to talk? Maka has been able to negotiate well. If she thinks this the best path, I'm inclined to trust her." The breath trapped in her lungs was released, and she smiled at him.

Maka was a brave girl, she has been born to dirt and death in cradles. She had grown strong in a world that wasn't known for letting people live to be strong. Even if they were to walk into an unfriendly city, she wouldn't let harm come to her friends. They were going to trust her to protect them, and she wouldn't let them down. She nodded at them, taking her step over the Ring.

They would come to them.

The Fae were beautiful.

That hadn't been a surprise, yet they were still breathtaking. Features were delicate, many of them bearing a delicate balance of androgyny. The guards that had met them had drawn swords, but they had stayed in formation, a curious look on their face. Maka had lifted her hands in surrender, her tone soft as she spoke. "We have not come to fight."

"I should hope not," the Fae in the middle spoke, smile on his face. He was tall, with long black hair pulled up out of his face. His eyes were stern, even if his mouth seemed friendly enough. The rest of the Fae party were a few steps behind him, marking him as leader. "You would be foolish to try and fight all of us...Hm. You seem welcome enough sister, but your guests make me question your sanity."

"We only want to pass through, we don't want trouble or to take from you. We would be grateful just to be left alone."

The leader lifted an eyebrow, gaze locking on Kid. "My my, you couldn't be who I think you are, could you?"

"I am The Prince, yes."

The Fae gave him a flourished bow, grin on his face. "I am Harvar, and please, allow me to escort you to our city. The Queen would love to meet with you."

The boys looked at Maka, fear and unease resting in their features. She steeled herself, offering Harvar a smile and dropping her hands from their submissive position. "I owe you a lifetime of gratitude, thank you." Harvar bowed his head to her as well, gesturing deeper into the green fields. The Fae waited for them to take point, ordering the Prince to take the lead. Maka trailed her party, shielding them from the Fae. Harvar laughed at her display, tilting her chin up so he could press a quick kiss to her mouth. "Sister, your spirit is refreshing, and your courage warms my bones. Do follow me! The Queen will love you!"

Maka blinked, slightly confused. There wasn't much to kissing in Fae culture, she was almost certain of that. However it had still surprised her, and her guard clearly wasn't up enough. Maka shrugged it off, returning her attention back to the path they were taking, catching Soul's bewildered face. The look she shot him silenced any response from him, though his scowl deepened again. There wasn't enough fight in her to deal with the Hell Child's misplaced attitude, not when she was so close to the end.

The Fae City was grander than any palace man could create.

Multicolored lights twinkled in groups around them, even in the light of afternoon, the lights were brighter than the sun. The citizens danced around each other in the marketplace, in various states of undress and inebriation. Lively music played from all directions, airy notes and deep echoes that Maka could feel in her chest. It was absolutely beautiful, she couldn't have even imagined it would look this lovely.

Blake and Soul were just as enchanted, eyes traveling slowly over their surroundings, taking in the city. Few humans had ever crossed into the ring, and even fewer had made it back to tell anyone about it. Harvar waved them along, not allowing them to hang back or get pulled into what looked like the beginnings of an orgy. Soul moved a little closer to Maka, clearly uncomfortable. She reached for his hand, giving him a little squeeze so he would stop swearing under his breath.

"This is going to be fine."

"I hope so."

"It's like you said, I haven't lead you wrong yet."

The palace of the Fae Queen was grander than the palace of the King.

There were more than a hundred rooms, Harvar had happily bragged as they walked up the stairs to the door, at least twenty different ballrooms, the grandest hallways ever made, and a throne room with no equal ever created. Maka was suddenly painfully aware of how dirty her clothing was, and how shabby she and the rest of her party were.

The guards posted at the door were covered in gold armor, gems embedded in the sigil they bore. They both stood taller as Harvar approached, blocking the door with spears. The Platoon leader opened up his arms, cheerful greeting in a language Maka couldn't understand spilling from his lips. The guards looked warily at Maka and the rest of her party, then back at Harvar. "Believe me, she will want to meet with them. You know I wouldn't ever bring harm to her."

The look the two guards shared was less than convinced, but they still stepped aside, allowing them access into the palace. The hallway was large, the ceiling stretched high above their heads, large oil paintings were placed on the walls, depicting a beautiful blonde woman wielding weapons and fighting men wearing the sigil of the King.

"Come my shabby friends, the queen will be most interested in your stories." Harvar waved them along, leading them through hallway after hallway, each more ornate than the last. He finally stopped them before another large door, turning to face them. "And do remember to be polite, humans have such a terrible time with that." The Fae gave them only a few seconds before he had the doors pushed open, revealing them to the Queen of the Fae.

She sat tall on a throne carved from gold, her back straight as she peered down at them. Her hair was golden as well, through one of her eyes was obscured by a bandage that wrapped around her head. Next to the throne, a massive war hammer leaned close to where her hand rested. The dress she wore was black, but it left gold shimmer behind her as she moved. She stood when they entered, descending the stairs to meet them. Her eye rested on each one of them, eyebrow raised. "Harvar, what have you found."

"Queen Marie, I found them just past the Ring. They wished to make themselves known rather than sneak around us. I figured you would like to meet them." Harvar smiled, gesturing to their party. Next to Maka, Blake and Soul froze, not even daring to breath. Marie watched them all in silence, the only sound the beating of their heartbeats in the quiet hallway.

"You, you're the King's son, aren't you?" The Queen's voice was soft, yet there was an iron to her words at the same time. Kid nodded, bowing before her.

"I am. The Second Son of the King of the Risen, who Brought the Dead to Defend. It is an honor to meet you, Queen of Fae." Kid bowed low, his voice only shaking a little. Queen Marie didn't respond, eyes resting on the rest of them.

"And you? With the striking hair?"

"Blake of the Star Clan."

"Soul Evans, First Ranger and Bow of the King."

"Maka Albarn." Maka whispered, shivering when Marie's eyes landed on her. The Queen made a sound in her throat, returning to her throne. Harvar dropped to his knees, Maka following suit. The boys joined her, and Marie took a deep breath.

"Anyone can appreciate your bravery, it can't be easy to walk into a snake pit knowing you will be targeted among them, Young Prince. Neither is it particularly welcoming to you, Hell Child. Why is it that you have come this deeply into The Forest?"

"We seek to petition the Great Tree for wisdom, we wish only to better those we have left back in the kingdom, and only knowledge will change this." Kid answered, lifting his head to meet the Queen's gaze.

"And this Dweller leads you?"

"I do." Maka answered, lifting her own gaze. "I want to see peace between the people, and I believe this will help. I also know of the Fae, the village I was raised in had known many visits from the Fae, and I know that manners matter. This is why we wished to meet you face to face, we didn't want to insult your great people."

"I see." Queen Marie spoke, face unchanged as she spoke to them. Her silence grated in Maka's soul, worried she had just walked into her own death. The Queen gestured to her left, a group of servants rushed to her side. "Take them to a room, let them clean themselves up. I'm choosing to believe that they're truly coming in peace. I can only hope that my kindness will spread past these trees." Her gaze focused on Kid, eyes narrowing. "I wish to hope that you will change your past. Though I will say, violence begets violence, and you were born of blood and war dear child, you may be worth nothing more."

The water was nearly scalding, but Maka wasn't sure she would ever leave.

Her muscles hummed their appreciation, the water soothing away the stress from their last week in dirt and fear. She sucked in a deep breath, diving underneath the water and running her fingers through her hair. When she finally popped back up, she had to swallow her scream seeing Soul standing in the doorway. "Oi! Don't you knock you pervert!?"

"I did," His hair hung in his eyes, also wet. The clothes he wore were a deep red, obviously a gift from the Queen. It had been a long time since she had seen the Hell Child clean, and it made him almost look less scary. "You didn't answer, so I just walked in."

"Presumptuous bastard aren't you?" She lifted an eyebrow, resting her arms on the edge of her bath. He scoffed, taking a seat in the chair next to the glass in the washroom.

"And here I came all this way to thank you."

"I'm listening."

"You were right. Coming to the Fae was clearly the right choice, and the choice that I wouldn't have made." He sighed, relaxing into the chair. "So thank you, for telling me that I was wrong."

"I know you thought I was up to something, but I wasn't. I know the Fae, and I know what they want."

"The fact that you're a Fae yourself made me question you, and I realize how hypocritical that is of me, considering that I am constantly challenged for the same reason." He gave her half a smile, closer to a smile than she had seen. "And I'm sorry."

"Well I forgive you, though you were smart to question me. I am curious to look around this place."

"Think the Queen will let us look around?"

"I believe she has a plan to ensure Kid leaves her more than pleased with his treatment, so he may take it back to his father. They lost access to many of their old holy places, and graves when they had lost their home in that war. I'm sure the Queen wants access to that again."

Soul made a noise in the back of his throat, crossing his arms. "Think Kid would consider such a thing?"

"I think Kid isn't like his father." She shrugged, dipping back into her tub. "Grab me that towel won't you?" Soul tossed the fabric at her, closing his eyes as she got out. She furiously dried her hair, then covered herself. "Come now Hell Child, you can braid my hair."

"Gods of Sea and Sky, how lucky can one demon be."

The Queen of Fae had ordered a celebration for that night.

Food spread across several tables, the smells were intoxicating, and many dishes were unrecognizable to Maka, being Fae dishes only. Several fountains flowed from the walls, Fae gathered around them, filling goblets and some just standing underneath the streams. Laughter echoed off the walls, a warm feeling washing over Maka.

She was seated with Kid, the two of them watching as Soul and Blake were observed and welcomed by the Fae near the table where they had been trying to get food. She couldn't hear what they were saying, but the Fae kept goading them and giving them the goblets. "I suppose we'll find out if Fae Ale truly kills a man."

Kid snorted, relaxing back in his chair. "Should any man survive it, I'd imagine Blake would be the one."

"I would imagine the same." Maka grinned, adjusting her skirt. The Queen had offered her clothes while her travel garments were cleaned. It was relaxing to be clean, though she found she didn't miss her skirts all that much. Kid was dressed in Fae garb as well, though they hung a little loose on his frame.

"Their hospitality is unexpected, and I'm having trouble believing this is the case. I expected to die once she recognized me, not throw me a party."

"I would simply count your blessings, Prince. Would you like a goblet of Fae Ale?" Maka grinned at him, and he met her grin with his own.

"I suppose that would be an experience I couldn't dream to pass up." Maka returned with two goblets for them, and a small plate of food. Kid held his up, and she followed suit. "A toast I should say, to peace."

"To peace," She echoed, watching how Kid's gaze lingered on Blake a little too long. "And to rising above our legacies."

It was like swimming without moving.

Her body felt as though she was floating, though she stood perfectly still against the wall. Around her, lights twinkled and shone, laughter overlapped with singing and dancing. Many of the Fae were already well on their way to making it a true Fae party, groups of them in various states of undress and kissing.

Maka could feel the smile on her face, watching Blake try and teach Kid a simple two step dance that was popular among the poorer citizens. Kid was failing miserably, and Blake couldn't stop laughing, a blush dusting his face. At the table next to her, Soul sat slumped over. His eyes had been closed for close to an hour now, though he did have a small smile on his face. It made her happy to see them all so relaxed for once. Their journey so far had been hard, and to have the chance to let them relax was a blessing she wouldn't have had the courage to ask for. She was grateful for this.

She was especially grateful that none of them noticed when she snuck out of the ballroom. Maka had done her part in this suicide mission, preventing their deaths even in the Fae city, and she had followed through more than anyone could expect them to do. Now, she was going to do something for her.

She moved slowly, her body still absolutely feeling the effects of the Fae Ale in her limbs. Quietly, Maka peeked into room after room, not entirely sure what she was looking for, but knowing she was close to finding it.

A soft wooden door gave way under her hands, leading her into a spacious library. Books were filed away into long shelves, from the floor to the ceilings, wings clearly needed to access the entire library. Maka walked into the room, the smell of dust and ink assaulted her senses. The smile on her face grew as she made her way to the center of the great room.

Near a massive fireplace, an old leather tome sat on the table, open to a page. Maka approached it slowly, peeking at the page. It was written with several languages, and it seemed to be a directory of some sort, listing the known families in the Fae lands. Her heart pounded against her chest, tugging her shirt down so she could memorize the brand against her breast, looking for similar characters on the page.

How close I could actually be to the answer I seek, this can't be real. Her hands shook as she flipped through a few of the pages, eyes scanning the words furiously. Footsteps behind her had her frozen, and she whirled to face her potential attacker.

The Queen of the Fae had a peculiar smile on her face, arms crossed as she approached Maka. "And what are we up to here?"

"I-I'm so sorry! I just…" Maka swallowed hard, hands shaking while she struggled to come up with a story. "I was-"

"Possibly," Marie cut her off, walking over to the open book. "You were taking detailed notes on the family history of my people, to take back to that distrustful King you seem to have an alliance with." Before Maka could even articulate how completely untrue her idea was, The Queen had turned towards her again. "Or perhaps you're looking for a clue to yourself, aren't you little one?"

It was jarring to hear those words aloud, and it made her pause for a moment. Maka suddenly felt pathetic, like a foolish little dweller trying to find out something she should already know. "I am. I'm afraid I know nothing of who I am, and I just wanted an answer."

"It's a noble plight, one I can understand over a Dweller leading Humans into their home. But without knowing who you are, The Forest would draw you in wouldn't it. And none of you would leave."

"Yes."

"Well, I'll admit, this makes me like you much more now." The Queen gestured to a pair of chairs, and Maka stumbled over to them. The Fae Queen's laugh was soft, like twinkling bells. "I know you hoped for answers, but I'm afraid I won't have one for you. I can feel the magic in you, clear as I can feel my own. But while you're a sister to me, I'm afraid you aren't a daughter."

In her current state, it took Maka a few moments to let the words digest before she could truly face them. That couldn't be possible. If she wasn't a Fae, what was left!? Dwellers were known for coming to claim what was theirs, yet none had come for her! How could her mother not come back for her!? How could she not know what she was!? Her face must've shown her distress because the Queen put her hand on her shoulder. "Sister, I'm so sorry to let you down like this. I can see your heart, and I would've been proud to claim you."

"...What's left? If I'm not a Fae-"

"There are thousands of creatures in these trees, you could be any number of those creatures. Don't give up because your answer wasn't here. The Forest is still your home, don't forget that." Maka nodded, unsure if words would be able leave her lips. The Queen pressed a kiss against her forehead, leaving as quickly as she had appeared.

Her father had told her that her mother had come to him twice, once more than they normally do. The answer had been there for years, right in front of her face. Whoever the creature was that came to Spirit, she hasn't been a Fae. It never had been.

It made sense as she thought about it, blaringly obvious as she looked upon that memory now. She wasn't a Fae, she never had been.

She didn't know why she felt so broken, but it still felt as if she had lost something important to her, as though a piece that had previously fit no longer settled in her soul.

How impossibly lonely this is.

Blake was a noisy drunk.

Not that Kid was actually surprised, Blake was loud in every aspect of his life. He watched him now, head thrown back in laughter as two Fae women kept running their hands down his chest. Blake didn't seem to mind, his arms wrapped around their shoulders. It made Kid smile, seeing the other man laugh so freely. He had a nice face when he smiled, it was more open and cheerful.

Suddenly Blake was in front of him, goofy smile on his face. "Yer one somber son of a bitch, ya know? This is supposed to be a party."

"I've never been one for parties, though it seems you were right about the Fae, they're man eaters."

"And like I told Maka, I won't apologize to them. Terrifying little women. Oh, and him too. He likes me." Blake laughed again, pointing across the room. Before Kid could respond, the two Fae women were back, more ale in their hands.

"More Ale?"

"If I drink anymore I'll die."

"An' what a wonderful way to go!" Blake flopped down into the seat next to Kid, throwing his arm around his shoulder. He placed the goblet in front of him and looked at him expectantly. Kid swallowed hard and threw his drink back with Blake, who made an incredibly distressed face and slammed his glass down. "Oi. You are a terrible dancer by the way."

"Rude."

"Yer a swordsman! How could you possibly be bad at dancing! It's basically the same thing."

"I think you're very confused about either sword fighting or dancing, just not sure which one." Blake howled at his response, curling his arm around his shoulder and squeezing.

"You're a right asshole Prince, you know! Get up, come on, I'm gonna teach you to dance again. This time I'm gonna let you lead."

"How will that teach-" before he could finish his thought, Blake had hauled him back onto the dance floor, surrounded by hundreds of other people. The confused swordsman put his hands on Kid's hips and looked at him expectantly.

"You telling me that yer fancy family never sent you to a damn dance lesson? Cuz I'd be absolutely fuckin' shocked."

Kid responded by placing his hands on Blake, leading him along to the music. His family had in fact, put him through several dance classes as he grew up, however he had never once attempted to dance while he was this inebriated before. He was sure that his timing was off completely, and he was more than likely shuffling from foot to foot and calling it dancing.

Blake didn't seem to mind, though it was entirely possible that he was much drunker than Kid was. As if the Star Child could read his mind, he suddenly rested his head against Kid's shoulder, groaning. "Should we stop?"

"Nope." Blake slurred, popping the 'p'. "Yer finally not terrible. We shouldn't ruin it."

"It's amazing how most of your compliments come off as insults you know that?" Kid scoffed, trying to keep the pace consistent with the music. He was able to finish out the song, and with it came to a close he stopped. Blake didn't move, and it crossed the Prince's mind that he may have passed out. "Um? Blake?"

"Hmhm?" Blake didn't move, but he did offer him a pathetic groan from his throat. "Why'd you stop?"

"Because the song is over, and you're unconscious."

"Clearly I'm not." Blake scoffed, lifting his head slowly. His face was dusted with a blush, and Kid found himself smiling.

"Come on, let's go sit down, yeah?" The Prince lead him off the dance floor, Blake getting far enough to reach the soft pile of pillows against the wall that had several couples and more taking advantage of the soft surface. Kid picked a spot that had a decent amount of distance from the nearest orgy that was breaking out.

Blake flopped onto the pillows, a low groan escaping from his mouth. Kid snorted, sitting down next to him. "Are you alright? Maybe some water?"

"This is nothing" Blake scoffed, trying to focus his eyes on Kid. "I've been worse than this."

"I really don't believe you."

"Yeah you're right, I'm pretty drunk." He grinned, licking his lips. Kind blinked, not really sure why his stomach was suddenly in knots. "I don't think you're much better tho."

"I'm really not." Kid admitted, flopping down next to him. They were quiet a few minutes, staring at the sparkling colored glass that decorated the ceiling of the ballroom. "If I were to apologize for what my father did, would you accept my apology?"

Blake was silent for a very long time. A song had begun, soft and airy, yet Kid couldn't focus on anything but his pounding heart and the silence of his companion. Finally, when the violins stopped singing, Kid chanced a look over at Blake.

He met his eyes dead on. Blake's face was still flushed, but his eyes had lost their steel now. There was a vulnerable glint that was painted multicolored in the lights of the ballroom. Kid struggled for more words, something to take that wounded look out of his eyes. Blake lifted his hand, resting it on the side of Kid's face. His hand was warm, and even with the soft touch, Kid could feel all the callouses that decorated his work torn hands. "Do you mean that?"

"I do." Kid could barely speak, his voice shaking as he answered. "I'm sorry that it happened."

Blake took a deep breath, dropping his hand from his face down to his chest, resting over Kid's heartbeat. "Thank you." His voice wavered and the Prince reached for him, pulling him into an embrace the best he could in their current position. Blake hid his face in his chest, and Kid let him.

He didn't know why he carried the guilt of an execution that wasn't on his order. But he had grown up so sheltered, in his palace walls and his brother for company. Kid wasn't known for making waves, or making a stand against any wishes for him. Blake was the first instance of actual pain directly caused by his father's orders. Blake's sorrow was directly linked with his Father's rule.

Though I will say, violence begets violence, and you were born of blood and war dear child, you may be worth nothing more.

The Queen of Fae's words had haunted him since they were spoken. Would he truly never amount to anything more than his Father's and Father's Father? Will his legacy be written in blood just like the ones before him? "I'm sorry."

Blake looked up at him, that vulnerable look still in his eyes. Kid didn't let him go, he had so much he wanted to say, but he had no idea how to say it. The Star Child swallowed hard again, eyes losing focus before he leaned forward and pressed his lips against Kid's.

The Prince panicked, for only a moment, before he found himself kissing Blake back. It was strange, Kid had never felt affected by kissing before, it had seemed more of a requirement than it had a pleasure, but it seemed different now. Blake was someone he respected, rather he was someone he really cared for, and that made it different. It made him want to keep going, to have Blake want to keep going too.

When Blake pulled away, his eyes a little dazed, he adjusted his position so he could lay in Kid's arms more comfortably. "Was...Was that okay?"

"Yeah." The Prince answered before his mind was able to catch up, but even when it had, his answer was still the same. He reached for Blake again, and they met in the middle, mouths connecting again. Normally, Kid would never be one for public affection but...They were alone in this room. Or they might as well be. The Fae didn't bat an eye while the Prince kissed the sole survivor of the Star Clan.

It was as if they didn't have to bear the weight of their names.

Though I will say, violence begets violence, and you were born of blood and war dear child, you may be worth nothing more.

He was worth more than blood and war. Kid was worth so much more, and he would prove it to everyone he could, but he would prove it to Blake first.

She sat in silence, her vision blurring as she stared down at the black and gold keys on a piano.

Maka felt drained, limbs felt as they were made of lead. The library was silent, the dust swirled in the soft candlelight. Her eyes followed them, their path changing as she breathed.

"And your somber face returns." Soul's voice echoed in the silence of the library, and she scoffed, trying to wipe the tears off her face.

"I'm not very much fun at parties."

"You're good at escaping, I will tell you that." He sat down next to her on the bench, resting his elbow on the keys. The resonating smash made her jump, and Soul snorted. "Sorry. You alright Little Light?"

Maka considered lying, but it wasn't worth it in the end. Her sorrow wasn't some big secret she had to hide. "I am not a Fae, as it turns out." Her voice only wavered near the end, and she was rather proud of herself for that.

"...I sort of figured that."

"How?"

"The Fae don't have the light, none of them do. So I figured there was a pretty good chance you weren't. I'm sorry though."

"...You could've told me."

"You wouldn't have believed me." Soul grinned, nudging her with his shoulder. She smiled, pushing him back. He was right, she wouldn't have believed him, and the outcome would've been the same. It had been kind of him not to tell her.

Soul cracked his knuckles, fingers over the keys. She expected another key smash, but notes filled the silence around them. It was a dark song, but it still lifted her spirits between the sorrow. He played for a while, and she leaned against him. "Where did you learn how to play?"

"My Sister. The King actually taught her, but she found she was better suited for violins, and taught this to me. She mostly wanted someone to play with." Soul smiled as he said that, fingers dancing over the keys. "And I liked knowing something that Kings did."

"Can I ask you something?"

"Yes."

"What does the light look like?"

"It's small, most of the time. Brighter when you're angry, or fighting. What's marked there? I'm pretty sure it's magic."

"I don't actually know. It's some kind of brand. Hell if I know what it says, it's not any language I've seen before." Maka explained, watching Soul's fingers move across the keys. "I don't think it fair that you can shoot a bow the way you do, and then be able to do this."

"We all have our talents, Little Light."

"Teach me."

Soul blinked at her, then nodded. He motioned for her scoot up, then he sat behind her, his chest against her back. His arms wrapped around her, hands resting on top of hers. "Here, just move with me." he didn't let her have a second to question him, moving his fingers over hers, playing the keys over her.

It was impressive, the way that his fingers could move so quickly, and that his right hand could play something completely different from his left. A smile grew across her face as he kept playing, she was enjoying this more than she could've thought. No one in her village could play more than a few strings on a broken lute, but Soul was able to play real music.

It took her nearly half of the song to realize he was humming as he went, but the melody was slightly different. "What's the other part you're doing?"

"My sister's. I have trouble staying on beat without her." Soul's voice was wistful, and Maka stopped her hands. She seemed to jar the archer out of his daze, and he glanced at her. "What?"

"I wanted to apologize. For your sister. And for not really making this trip easy on you."

He waved her off, his hands going back to the keys. "If I recall, I'm the one that kidnapped you."

"And I lead us into the Fae City."

"So you did have ulterior motives."

Maka stiffened, nose in the air. "Only a little! I just...I wanted to know what home was…"

"Home is not what we perceive it to be." Soul answered. "I understand why you want to know, but maybe somethings are best left covered. Some rocks don't need overturned."

"Says the boy with a home."

"I have a house. And a family. But I know nothing of Hell, which you and I both know is truly home for me."

Maka didn't say anything, but he was right. Demons belonged to Hell, like Dwellers belonged to The Forest. "Are you running from what I'm running towards?"

"Always." His voice was near her ear and she jumped, causing Soul to hit a few sour notes. He grunted, getting back on track. "Home is what you make it, it's okay not to know."

The Dweller considered it, leaning back into his chest. "I can make my own then." His hands stopped playing, instead coming to rest around her waist. His chin rested on her shoulder and he sighed.

"The homes you build are usually better than the ones you're given."

She turned towards him then, a smile on her lips. "You've been kind to me all this time. Thank you for that."

"You're uncharacteristically humble right now. Is this what happens when you drink Little Light? You become gracious?"

"Ha! See if I ever pay you a compliment again you right villain." Her tone was light, and she pressed a kiss against his cheek. He blinked, bringing one of his hands up to his face.

"What's that for?"

"Figured you might enjoy that. Besides, I saw the look you gave Harvar for kissing me earlier-"

"Forgive me for thinking it rude to just up and kiss some random person after just meeting them and not knowing if it was some kind of attack-"

Maka snorted, laughter bubbling up from her chest. "Attack?! Gods of Earth and Fire, have you never been kissed?"

"I hate your tone." The defeated edge to his voice was back, and it gave the Dweller an immense sense of peace to hear it again. "To take so much joy in insulting your own comrade."

"That's a no!" She sang to him, smiling at his scowl. Soul's hand came from her hip to the back of her head. Their lips met quickly, Soul moving his mouth against hers softly, but with a certain amount of force. Maka wasn't sure what she had been expecting, but a flame lit under her skin, heartbeat exploding as she licked his lip. He hissed softly, catching her bottom lip in his teeth and tugging.

When he released her, she found her finger coming up to trace her bottom lip. He returned his head back to her shoulder, a quick kiss pressed to her neck. "I've kissed a girl before."

"Clearly."

I know it's a long one! But I hope you like it! Please review :)