Author's Note: In order to keep in line with my attempts to explore Amity's inner quarrels, I have taken the liberty in this chapter to explore a concept that I feel the show (rightly in there part as it is such an overdone trope, but I feel needs to be touched in this timeline to keep in line with the "Amity discovering herself" narrative I'm trying to build here) didn't cover. Her coming out. I figured this would be a nice backdrop in the overall conflict with her overly traditionalist mother. I don't anticipate making this a significant plot point. Its 2023 after all and people are kinda tired of this kind of characterization where a person's sexual identity becomes their only noticeable personality trait. If you think this needs taken out since the show's unabashed approach at normalizing this kind of thing, I will consider it. But I think it serves it well. Let me know below as we explore more of Amity being a big gay disaster as usual and the introduction of the main conflict. Enjoy!
Mixing Expectations
Footsteps echoed through the dimly lit streets of Bonesborough as Amity made her way home. The cool evening air wrapped around her, carrying with it a sense of anticipation and uncertainty. Each step seemed to reverberate through her entire being, amplifying those intrepid thoughts still swirling in her mind.
She couldn't ignore the fluttering in her chest, the way her heart seemed to dance whenever Luz was near. It was a sensation she had never experienced before, and it both intrigued and frightened her in ways only the great Titan himself could imagine. Never minding her previous skirts with romance which, admittedly, never manifested themselves beyond the pages of her Azura books and other sappy novels. The minty haired witchling could hardly recall a moment in her life when she felt so…deeply affected by another person. The emotions it brought about often forced her to consider how it affected her beyond her increasingly frequent displays of erythema. Perhaps this alone solidified her decision to both remove herself from those who put her away in the star child entrapment and…even drove her be closer with the one who afflicted her so.
Amity had always pictured herself as the epitome of composure, dedicated to her studies and following the path set by her family. But now, there was something pulling her in a different direction, tugging at the edges of her carefully constructed world. Where it could take her, she could only guess.
As she walked, the streetlamps cast elongated shadows, stretching out like questioning fingers, as if the very city itself was inquiring about her conflicted emotions. The buildings, once familiar and comforting, now felt like silent observers, their windows serving as eyes peering into the depths of her twisted thoughts.
The young witchling's footsteps quickened, a mixture of excitement and trepidation coursing through her veins. She had chosen to be closer with Luz, to open herself up to the vulnerability of her burgeoning feelings. It was a decision that both thrilled and terrified her. Countless hours of rehearsed conversations played in her mind, each outcome a possibility of happiness or heartache. She hoped these positive trends weren't just another cruel illusion she had grown all too familiar with.
The flickering streetlights mirrored the flickering of her thoughts, casting fleeting glimpses of illumination on her doubts and desires. Should she follow the path her family had set for her, meticulously carved in stone? Or should she dare to deviate and explore the uncharted territories of her heart?
The wind whispered through the trees, their branches swaying in a rhythmic taunt, urging Amity to embrace the unexpected. Her disciplined nature and unwavering determination had constructed walls around her heart, but now they were beginning to crumble, revealing the raw vulnerability she had long kept hidden.
With each passing moment, Amity's internal dialogue grew louder. Questions and doubts battled for dominance in her mind. Was she ready to face the consequences of her feelings? Could she bear the weight of potential disappointment? And most importantly, did she have the courage to break free from the expectations placed upon her?
As the moon peeked through the clouds, casting a gentle glow on the path ahead, Amity knew she couldn't ignore the yearning in her heart any longer. The time had come to confront her emotions head-on, to embrace the uncertainty that came with pursuing her own desires. It was a leap of faith, a step into the unknown. She couldn't help but wonder if it would lead to liberation or heartbreak. As the moon peeked through the clouds, casting a gentle glow on the path ahead, Amity knew she couldn't ignore the yearning in her heart any longer. The time had come to confront her emotions head-on, to embrace the uncertainty that came with pursuing her own desires. It was a leap of faith, a step into the unknown, and she couldn't help but wonder if it would lead to liberation or heartbreak. The journey home had transformed into a moment of self-reflection for Amity, the streets of Bonesborough serving as a backdrop to her internal struggle. She was no longer simply walking home; she was traversing the delicate tightrope of her own emotions, balancing between the familiar and the uncharted.
The moon peeked through the clouds, casting a gentle glow on the path ahead, as Amity's footsteps quickened. She couldn't ignore the yearning in her heart any longer. It was time to confront her emotions head-on, to embrace the uncertainty that came with pursuing her own desires. Determination fueled her steps, but a lingering wariness lingered in the back of her mind.
Amity knew the road ahead wouldn't be easy. The expectations placed upon her by her family, particularly her parents, weighed heavily on her shoulders. She had seen how her mother's ambitions had shaped their lives, turning her childhood home into a mere stage for her parents' achievements. It was a place that once represented opulence and success, but now it felt suffocating, suffused with the echoes of her family's ambitions.
But it wasn't just her parents' disapproval that gave her pause. Amity's thoughts drifted to Luz, the human who had unwittingly captured her heart. She couldn't deny the connection she felt, the way Luz's presence brought a warmth and brightness into her life she had never felt before. Yet, she couldn't help but wonder how her parents would react to her affection for someone they deemed beneath their social standing. Especially someone from an entirely different world. Could her parents ever truly except something so foreign? So unique. So…human.
As she walked, Amity couldn't shake off the internal conflict brewing within her. On one hand, she yearned to express her feelings openly, to embrace this newfound connection with Luz. On the other hand, fear gnawed at her, whispering doubts and uncertainties. What if her parents' objections were insurmountable? What if pursuing her own desires meant sacrificing the acceptance and support she craved from her family?
The moonlight guided her path, casting long shadows on the ground. In that moment, Amity made a silent vow to herself. She would confront her feelings, no matter the challenges that lay ahead. She would find the strength within herself to navigate the delicate balance between her own desires and her family's expectations. It wouldn't be easy, but she refused to let fear dictate her actions.
As Amity walked along the dimly lit streets of Bonesborough, her mind consumed by thoughts of her human crush, she suddenly felt a tug on her backpack. Startled, she turned around to find the all too familiar faces of her mischievous twin siblings, Edric and Emira, standing there with playful smirks smeared across their countenance.
"What in the Isles!" exclaimed Amity, her heart racing like the Titan by their sudden appearance. "W-What are you two doing here?"
The male twin chuckled sinisterly, holding up what appeared to be a small handheld confetti cannon, likely sourced from Eda the Owl Lady. "Just thought we'd add a little excitement to your walk, Mittens."
The minty haired witchling seethed at the mention of the pet name her elder siblings had bestowed upon her. It irked her to no end that they would choose to use such a childish moniker for her despite their minimal age difference. However, before Amity could begin to lay into the illusory pranksters, her older sister, Emira, pulled out a tiny device that emitted a burst of colorful smoke. "And what better way to liven things up than with a surprise entrance?"
Amity couldn't help but be both annoyed and amused by her siblings' antics. Her chest tightened as her face was consumed with rage. "You two are incorrigible. Can't a Blight have a moment of peace?!" she spat.
Edric winked playfully, not minding the all-too-common reaction from his sister. "Peace is overrated, Mittens. Better to operate in a world of chaos. If everything is broke, then nothing needs fixing amiright?"
Too out of care to reply, the moody witchling huffed angrily and attempted to push her way past the twins. However, as she made her way through the two, they unceremoniously draped their arms around her, forcing her to stop lest she fall on her face. Knowing this position all too well, she accurately predicted their next move as the elder Blights inched closer to her increasingly flushed face, eyes filled with a myriad of piercing questions she was certain possessed no good intent.
"Aww, come on Mittens!" cooed Emira, her hand squeezing her sister closer. "We've just trying to cheer you up. You've been so out of it lately. Someone has to drag you back to reality every once in a while."
Edric joined, eager to press that matter further. "Yeah, baby sister! Can't have the top student lost in her own world. Mom might blow a gasket if her favorite daughter couldn't keep up the act." He finished, pinching Amity on the cheek to reinforce his point.
The young Blight teen gave a harsh exhale, completely frustrated with her siblings' antics. Pushing herself free of the two without acknowledging her elder twins presence any further, she continued her walk home, attempting to recapture some peace of the evening.
Edric and Emira stood there appalled at their younger siblings' reaction. From many years of hard work and analysis, they fully expected Amity to lash out, rightfully challenging their stupid behavior for the mistreatment it was. However, no such action came from the witchling. And it left the two at a loss. Understanding they clearly struck a nerve they had not intended to, the twins looked to each other and with similar understanding nodded, aimed to root out the cause of their sister's dismay.
"Amity wait!" exclaimed the twins in unison.
The mention of her name brought pause to the young witchling. Rarely had her elder siblings ever chosen to call her by her name instead opting to refer to her by 'Mittens'. She stopped in her tracks, turning to face them. Her face was still flushed with anger.
"What?!" she replied callously, not particularly interested in indulging in any potential tricks.
Emira spoke first, "We're sorry baby sister. We didn't mean to hurt your feelings when your clearly not feeling right." Stepping forward as she spoke to ease the tension between the two.
"Yeah, we didn't realize something was wrong," joined Edric, an apologetic looking etching onto his face. "You know we'd never mean to hurt you. You're our favorite sister."
Rolling her eyes, but in a softer tone than previous Amity replied, "I'm your only sister you doofuses."
Both twins eyed each other awkwardly, they shrugged and spoke in unison, "We're sorry."
Amity huffed. Despite all the trouble the two seemed to cause for her and the relentless teasing, she had to admit they always made their best effort to apologize when in the wrong. With her anger fleeting, she dropped the harsh attitude and motioned for them to accompany her home. Eager to follow, the twins rushed forward and joined the witchling, walking blissfully on either side of her.
As they neared the Blight Manor, the three teens engaged in menial conversation. Mostly attempting to dispel the apprehension from earlier. Amongst the flurry of questioning from her elder siblings, somehow the topic of their afterschool plans for tomorrow arose. Amity blushed at the thought of her upcoming Azura Book Club meeting with Luz. The very thought causing her space out once again.
Noticing their sister's lack of situational awareness, the twins exchanged curious glances. Emira, known for her directness, casually interjected, "So, Mittens, anything caught your eye at school lately? You never stop talking about it half the time. So, what's the scoop? New afterschool hobby? Perhaps rejoining the Grudgby team? Or… maybe a certain someone?" Her words lingered, drawn out like a delicate melody.
Amity's body tensed, her heart skipping a beat. Had her siblings caught on? Did they suspect her romantic interests? The warmth in her cheeks intensified, making it impossible to hide her blush. Thoughts raced through her mind, desperate to come up with a convincing response.
Embracing the opportunity to tease their younger sister, Edric chimed in, feigning awe, "Oh, look! Our precious Mittens has a crush!" He even went as far as pinching his cheeks together, exaggerating the teasing further.
Amity attempted to bury herself further into her cowl, her embarrassment reaching its peak. Feebly attempting to deny their accusations, she huffed, "I do not!"
Not one to let the moment pass, Emira playfully reassured her, "It's okay, Mittens. We all fall for someone eventually. It happens to the best of us, even… top students." Her words carried a hint of mischief.
Feeling cornered and eager to end the torment, Amity reluctantly conceded, "Okay, fine! Wittle ole Mittens has a crush! You happy?!" Her voice carried a mix of annoyance and resignation, hoping it would satisfy their petulant questioning.
The twins erupted into a fit of laughter, taken aback by the newfound awkwardness in their usually composed sister. Amity could only sigh in frustration, knowing she would be subjected to their teasing for weeks to come.
"So, who's the lucky guy?" Edric prodded, eager to uncover the juicy secrets of his baby sister's love life. "Is it some knight in shining armor, just like those characters from your Azura books?"
"…"
The air so quiet a leaf couldn't break the silence.
"Aww… Is our baby sister bashful again?" Edric teased.
Biting her lip, unsure if she should speak further. Amity's voice dropped to a whisper, "I never said it was a guy..." Instantly regretting letting the words leave her lips as she beamed shades of red that couldn't be healthy.
The statement hung in the air, a sudden shift in the atmosphere. Emira's eyes widened, surprise evident on her face. She exchanged a quick glance with Edric, their mischievous grins fading into genuine curiosity. Amity's heart pounded in her chest, realizing the weight of her revelation.
"You never said it was a guy?" Emira repeated, her voice laced with genuine intrigue. "So, you're interested in... girls?" Her words trailed off, leaving an expectant silence. A small smile spread across her face.
Amity felt a mix of vulnerability and relief. Her siblings had "stumbled" upon the truth, yet their response seemed devoid of judgment or ridicule. Still, she hesitated, uncertain of how much she was willing to reveal. But there was something about the earnestness in their eyes that urged her to be honest.
Swallowing her pride, Amity nodded, her voice barely above a whisper. "Yes, I... I'm interested in girls." It was a moment of truth, a confession she hadn't anticipated making on this particular walk home. But one she oddly felt comfortable admitting. She had never spoken the words aloud, not even to herself.
The surprise on her siblings' faces quickly transformed into genuine support. Emira's eyes softened, and she reached out to squeeze Amity's shoulder. "Oh Mittens, we're your siblings. We love you no matter what. You can always count on us."
Amity hesitated for a moment, her guard slowly melting away. She had always admired her siblings' carefree nature, their ability to find joy in the simplest of things. Perhaps they would be her allies in this journey of self-discovery.
With a mixture of vulnerability and newfound courage, Amity met their gaze and nodded. "Yeah, it's true. I've been grappling with these feelings for a while now."
Emira's eyes softened, her mischievous demeanor replaced with genuine concern. "Amity, you know we'll always be here for you, right? No matter who you're interested in. We love you unconditionally."
Amity's eyes welled up with tears, her heart overwhelmed by a surge of emotions. She had spent so long hiding her true self, fearing rejection and judgment. Especially at the thought of her parents' traditionalist judgement. But in that moment, as her siblings offered acceptance and love, she felt a weight lifted off her shoulders. Glad to have the acceptance of the only people she considered her closest family.
"Thank you," she whispered, her voice filled with gratitude. "I'm still trying to figure things out but knowing that I have your support means the world to me."
Edric reached out and gave her a gentle squeeze on the shoulder. "We've got your back, little sis. Just remember, love is a beautiful thing, no matter who it's directed towards."
As they walked through the grand entrance of Blight Manor, Amity felt a renewed sense of hope. The road ahead was uncertain, and her journey of self-discovery was just beginning. But with her siblings by her side, she knew she had the strength to face whatever challenges lay ahead.
As the Blight siblings approached their grand estate, Amity couldn't help but feel a mixture of awe and resentment. The imposing structure of the Manor loomed before her, its presence exuding an air of opulence and power. The towering walls and intricate architectural details seemed to mock her, emphasizing her role as a pawn in her parents' grand designs. It felt less like a home and more like a gilded prison, a symbol of the Blight family's traditionalist attitudes that stifled her true desires.
The entrance to the Manor was adorned with towering iron gates, their cold bars a stark contrast to the warmth Amity longed for. As they passed through, the gates creaked with a haunting melody, as if welcoming them to a world where appearances reigned supreme, and individuality was suppressed.
Inside, the grandeur of the estate overwhelmed Amity's senses. Ornate chandeliers bathed the hallways in a soft, golden glow, casting long shadows that danced along the walls. The marble floors echoed with each step, amplifying the weight of expectations that bore down on her shoulders.
The walls were adorned with portraits of distinguished ancestors, their stern gazes seemingly judging Amity's every move. They represented a lineage of tradition and conformity, a constant reminder of the path laid out for her, one that she was expected to dutifully follow. The rooms were filled with expensive furnishings, but their beauty only served to reinforce the suffocating grip of her parents' judgment.
Amity couldn't help but personify the Manor, as if it was an extension of her parents' watchful eyes. The chandeliers sneered down at her, their flickering flames casting long, accusing shadows. The cold marble floors seemed to mock her steps, each one echoing her lack of freedom. The ancestral portraits stared at her with disdain, their painted expressions serving as a constant reminder of the Blight family's expectations.
Alador, Amity's father, emerged from his workshop, his presence both commanding and distant. The conversation that followed echoed the opulence of their surroundings, the carefully chosen words wrapped in layers of formality and obligation. Amity's resentment simmered beneath her polite facade, her heart aching for a genuine connection in a world that seemed more concerned with appearances than with love. The sight of him brought a mix of emotions for Amity. On one hand, she admired his intelligence and dedication to his craft. On the other hand, his frequent absence had left a void in her life, a longing for his guidance and presence.
"Amity! Edric! Emira! Welcome home. How was your day at school?" Alador greeted them with a warm smile, his jumpsuit covered in what could only be another one his 'experiments' as he called it. Amity noted how she always felt her father's voice gave off such a warm and welcoming tone, yet oddly felt cold and distant. Always within an arm's reach, yet never able to grasp his presence.
"Hi Dad!" the twins greeted in unison. Amity choosing to let them speak for her. She only waved at her father in reply. Not ready to engage in any meaningful conversation given her recent emotional turmoil.
As they made their way through the grand halls of Blight Manor, Edric and Emira ranted ceaselessly with their father about random happenings at school and how they were finally advancing into more exciting illusion magic. They exchanged playful banter, their mischievous nature contrasting with the formal setting.
"So, Dad," Edric began with a sly grin, "any chance you'll let us test out some of the new abomatons from the factory? You know, for research purposes." He gave air quotes around the last two words. Clearly with the intent of causing more undue chaos.
Alador chuckled, a rare moment of levity crossing his face. "You two never cease to find ways to bend the rules, do you? I'm afraid the abomatons are strictly for authorized personnel from the Emperor's Coven. But… maybe I can arrange a demonstration for you, if you're interested." The Blight patriarch finished, clearly divested in his children's interest in his life's work.
Emira raised an eyebrow, her eyes sparkling with curiosity. "A demonstration you say. That sounds interesting. Will you let us use the jetpacks?!" Anticipation painted across her face.
Amity watched her siblings' playful interaction with their father, a pang of envy tugging at her heart. It seemed they shared a camaraderie that she had yet to experience fully. She longed for a similar connection, where they could be open and honest about their dreams and aspirations.
Amity's frustration simmered beneath the surface as the twins raved with her dad. She couldn't help but question his sudden interest in their lives at Hexside. After all, it felt like he was always absorbed in his own work, leaving little room for meaningful connection with herself and her siblings.
"Well kids, it seems like you certainly are keeping the Blight name in check. Just don't forget that work comes before play. You'll never grow up if you let distractions get in the way." Alador chimed. A sense of coldness returning to his voice.
The minty haired witchling frowned at this. Had her father's sole objective in life always been to placate the expectations of others around him? Amity was unsure. She could hardly recall the last time he had ever done something truly on his own accord and not under the pressure of their mother or the Blight Family associates. The very thought brought her blood to a boil.
"Maybe if we actually had the chance to grow up outside of a cage," Amity quipped. Her voice barely above a whisper. Not wanting to be heard lest she face retribution.
However, her vain attempts to hide her frustration had not fallen on deaf ears. Peeved by his favorite daughter's remark, he retorted, "What was that Mittens?" Not trying to sound harsh, but merely taken aback by his daughter's abrasiveness. "You me and your mother work very hard to ensure you and your siblings' futures. It's a Blight's duty to expect nothing less than the best. And that is what we have provided you isn't it?"
Not wavering in her anger, Amity chirped back, "Yeah, I know Dad. A Blight's duty." Locking eyes with her father, she paused. Fear set in as she realized her challenge might only worsen her situation. She finished quietly, "Its kinda hard for us to know what that means since you never leave the workshop…"
Alador's gaze hardened, a flicker of hurt crossing his eyes. The truth of Amity's words struck a nerve, challenging the foundation of his choices and the sacrifices he had made for the family's legacy.
"I... I understand it may seem that way, Amity," he replied, his voice tinged with a mix of defensiveness and regret. "But your mother and I have worked tirelessly to provide you with opportunities, to secure your future. The workshop, the factory... they are part of that vision. Why else would we work so hard to ensure your place in the Emperor's Coven? We only want what's best for you."
Amity's frustration simmered beneath her surface as she listened to her father's response. His words were filled with defensiveness, a testament to the deeply ingrained expectations and traditions that governed their family. She couldn't help but feel a pang of disappointment, realizing that her plea for understanding and connection had fallen on deaf ears.
"Dad, I understand that you and Mom have made sacrifices for us," Amity said, her voice tinged with a mix of frustration and sadness. "But sometimes it feels like the Blight name and our future are the only things that matter to you guys. What about us? What about us making our own decisions? Is that so much to ask?"
Alador's face hardened, his brows furrowing as he struggled to find the right words. He wanted to explain his choices, to justify the sacrifices he and Odalia had made. But deep down, he knew that his actions had taken a toll on his relationship with his children.
"I... I can see how you feel that way, Amity," he replied, his voice tinged with regret. "But please understand, my work, the expectations... they are all part of a bigger picture. I can't change everything overnight."
Amity's heart sank, disappointment washing over her. She had hoped for a breakthrough, a glimmer of change in her father's demeanor. But his words only reinforced the divide that had grown between them. She chose only to nod in reply. Not wanting to worse the issue any further.
Alador sighed, his eyes filled with a mix of remorse and resignation. He realized the depth of his daughter's pain and the missed opportunities for connection. Maybe someday things would be different. Just maybe…
"I am sorry, Amity," he said, his voice softening. "I understand that my… absences have taken a toll on our family. I promise to make an effort to be more present, to listen and try to understand. But please know that change takes time."
Amity nodded, her disappointment tempered by a flicker of hope. She knew that her father's ways wouldn't change overnight, but she hoped that he might change soon. Heck. If Luz could make her go from the snobby rich girl on the hill to the girl she is now, anything could happen. Right?
"Thanks, Dad," she whispered, her voice carrying a mixture of gratitude and vulnerability. "I appreciate your willingness to try."
Alador managed a faint smile, he canted and head and offered, "Let's get to dinner. Working all day in that shop has me hungry enough to clear a buffet." The young witchling nodded and walked with the rest of the family in tow to the dinner room. Maybe a meal could clear her already exhausted mind.
The Blight family gathered around the grand dining table; the room adorned with elegant chandeliers casting a warm glow upon the opulent surroundings. Amity couldn't help but feel a sense of unease, her father's earlier words echoing in her mind as they took their seats. The absence of her mother, Odalia, only heightened the tension in the room. But for once the young witchling was thankful for her mother's overt dedication to work, it gave her a chance to ease her mind.
The family gathered around the table, each with their own plate of sustenance that mirrored their individual tastes and preferences. Emira and Edric, the mischievous twins, reveled in their usual chaotic display of food, their plates adorned with a colorful mishmash of finger foods, sandwiches, and a jumble of condiments that they mixed together with gusto. Their laughter filled the air as they playfully challenged each other to devour their creations. Alador, ever the practical one, opted for a hearty, no-nonsense meal. A simple yet satisfying screaming steak, cooked to perfection, accompanied by a side of roasted vegetables and a modest portion of smashed potatoes. He savored each bite with a focused, determined expression. Meanwhile, Amity, with her health-conscious nature, chose a celestial fusion of succulent roasted rhymebeast, accompanied by an array of vibrant fruits, vegetables, and enchanted herbs. Each bite carried a hint of mysticism, inviting her to savor the extraordinary flavors that danced on her palate.
As the meal commenced, the twins, determined to disturb the serenity of the meal, couldn't resist their mischievous nature, casting knowing glances at Amity. Emira couldn't contain her excitement any longer and leaned closer to her father, a playful grin playing on her lips. "Oh, Dad!" she chimed in a sing song tone. You'll never guess what we heard at Hexside today," she teased, her eyes gleaming with curiosity.
Perking his head up, Alador raised a suspicious look as he eyed his eldest daughter. "Whawt wowld wthat wbe?" he managed, his mouth still full of food.
Edric chimed in, unable to contain his excitement of urge to tease his sister. "It seems our dearest sister has fallen ill.
Taking concern at the statement, Alador place his fork down and questioned his daughter, eager to determine her plight. "What wrong Mittens? Are you feeling sick? Did that Samskulle kid come near you again? I told you if they ever did to let the faculty know. That whole family is a walking infection some days I swear."
Amity, not understanding her siblings' aims, kept her eyes on food and replied, "I have no idea what they're talking about Dad. Emira must have fallen into her illusion again."
Irritated by her sisters deadpan, she cocked a queer smile. "I never said it was a physical affliction." Emira quipped. Waving her hands in an overly dramatic display, she cover her heart and chortled, "Its more like a sickness of the heart. Some might even call it… lovesick."
Dropping her silverware rather uncouthly on her plate, Amity's eyes shot a death glare at her sister. Surely, she wouldn't dare to confide her secret to her father. Not like this. Not after they had promised to be supportive like they had. Would she?
"Care to enlighten us, Mittens?" Edric teased, nudging Amity playfully.
Alador, now thoroughly engaged, eyed his youngest daughter with intense curiosity. Had Amity really been interested in love already? She was rather young. He thought. But still, he can't say that stopped him at his age. All he could remember was years of being a lovesick puppy for Odalia when they were in Hexside together. Maybe Amity was more like him than he realized. A real romantic. He watched his daughter carefully, not wanting to dissuade her from answering.
Amity felt cornered, face flushed, her eyes darting between her siblings and her father. She knew they wouldn't let up until she gave them some sort of answer. Taking a deep breath, she mustered the courage to admit the truth.
"Yes, I'm… interested in someone at school. Happy?" she confessed, her voice wavering slightly. Trying to keep her cool. "But I'm not gonna say who. So don't even ask!"
Alador raised an eyebrow, intrigued by his daughter's admission. "Oh, come on, Mittens," he pressed gently, a hint of intrigue in his voice. "You can tell us. We're family."
Amity hesitated, her mind racing. She knew her father's curiosity was genuine, but revealing her crush would mean exposing a vulnerable part of herself. That and having to unpack a host of drama she was NOT mentally equipped for right now. She decided to stand her ground, keeping her secret intact. "I appreciate your interest, Dad, but I'd rather keep it to myself for now. It's still early, and things are... complicated."
"That's perfectly fine Mittens." Alador offered a warm smile, glad to see his daughter pursuing something personal besides Abomination magic. "Whoever it is. I'm positive that if they're amazing enough to attract the interest of my daughter, they must be wonderful person. Just promise to bring them by so they can meet your mother and I. No secret lovers in this household," Alador teased. Mostly wanting to reassure his daughter felt safe from at least his judgement given their recent conversation.
Amity covered her face in embarrassment as her cheeks reached astronomical temperatures. This earned a small snicker from the twins, knowing they had accomplished their mission of turning their sister into a nervous wreck. However, the minty haired witchling felt reassured by her father's words. Regardless of how awkwardly he had to make it. Perhaps her parents wouldn't be as judgmental of Luz as she thought. Only time would tell.
The twins exchanged knowing glances; their eyebrows raised in suspicion. They had their own speculations about the identity of Amity's crush, but they respected her decision to keep it private. For now…
Just as the tension began to dissipate, the doors to the dining room swung open, and Odalia, the Blight matriarch entered, exuding an air of authority. Her presence alone demanded attention as she took her seat at the head of the table, her eyes sharp and observant.
"Good evening, everyone," Odalia greeted, her voice carrying a sense of control. The very remark akin to one of the many business dealings she frequented. "Apologies for my delay. Matters regarding the Emperor's Coven Abomaton acquisition required my attention."
Alador nodded, his expression attentive. "Of course, dear. I had Theodora keep your food warm for you. We we're just discussing the children's plans for the upcoming convention."
As the conversation progressed, Amity's mind wandered, her absentmindedness becoming apparent in the slight crease of her brow and distant gaze. Her thoughts were consumed by the delicate balance between her growing feelings for Luz and the looming expectations set by her mother. Her mind wandered. Remembering the various adventures, she had undertaken over the last few months. Flighting the slither beast with Luz. Reigniting her friendship with Willow thanks to Luz's intervention. Even their fight with Obatin the book monster brought a pleasant smile to her face. Unbeknownst to her, however, Odalia's keen eyes narrowed, her gaze piercing through the facade of casual conversation, sensing something amiss in her daughter's demeanor.
"Amity," Odalia's voice sliced through the air, her tone sharp and demanding attention. "I couldn't help but notice your lack of focus during our discussion. I trust you are adequately prepared for the upcoming event?"
Amity's heart sank, caught off guard by her mother's directness. She felt a wave of anxiety wash over her, the weight of her mother's scrutiny bearing down on her.
"I... I apologize, Mother," Amity stammered, her voice tinged with apprehension. "I-I'm totally prepared for th-the thing. You know. What we were just talk about…You can count on me." She finished lamely.
Odalia's gaze lingered for a moment before she nodded, her expression softening slightly. "See that you do, Amity. We must always strive for excellence in all that we do. Especially since you'll be preforming for all of the Coven Heads at the event. I expect nothing less than the best. Am I clear?"
Amity nodded, her eyes downcast. She couldn't escape the feeling that she constantly fell short of her mother's expectations. In that moment, she vowed to prove herself, both academically and as her own person, free from the shadow of her family's legacy. And she…WAIT. Did she just say ALL OF THE COVEN HEADS! What had she missed.
"Uh… Mother, what uh d-did you say I would be doing at this d-demonstration exactly?" said the young witchling. Her mind aloof given her constant thoughts of her crush.
Odalia, clearly unpleased with her daughter's absentmindedness, rolled her eyes and spoke harshly, "Amity. You are a Blight. Blights don't make a habit of repeating themselves. Its not fit for us."
Her Mother's admonishment cut through Amity like hot knives. She felt her heart sink as she braced herself for her mother's judgement.
Sighing harshly, Odalia continued, "But since you think yourself above the attention of your parents, I shall repeat myself just this once." Amity shifted in her chair, uneasy under her mother's glare. "You will be part of the demonstration of the Emperor's Coven Convention next week where will unveil your father's latest creation. The Abominatrix Defender. It's the latest model in a line of security apparatuses we are trying to market to our vendors, specifically the Emperor's Coven. If everything goes according to plan, then our family will become the sole proprietor of security for the entirety of the Boiling Isles."
Amity's eyes widened in disbelief and trepidation as her mother revealed the magnitude of the upcoming event. The weight of her family's ambitions and the pressure to succeed crashed down upon her. The Abominatrix Defender, her father's latest creation, held the key to their family's future dominance in the security industry. The realization hit her like a tidal wave, and she struggled to comprehend the immense responsibility that rested upon her young shoulders. The expectations were higher than ever, and failure was not an option.
With a deep breath, Amity mustered her resolve, her voice trembling but determined. "I... I understand, Mother. I won't let you down. I'll do whatever it takes to make the demonstration a success and secure our family's position. You can count on me."
Odalia's stern expression softened slightly, a glimmer of pride flickering in her eyes. "Good. That's what I expect from a Blight. Remember, Amity, we are a family that thrives on excellence and seizing opportunities. Make us proud."
Amity nodded, her heart heavy with the weight of her mother's expectations. She couldn't shake the feeling of being trapped in her family's legacy, yearning for a sense of individuality and the freedom to pursue her own dreams. But for now, she had no choice but to comply, to play her part in the grand design of the Blight Family.
The dinner drew to a close, and a heavy silence hung in the air. Amity's gaze wandered around the opulent dining room, the trophies of the Blight Family's accomplishments serving as a constant reminder of their traditionalist values and unyielding expectations. As the weight of her mother's words settled within her, Amity couldn't shake the feeling of being trapped, her dreams and desires suffocated under the weight of tradition and obligation.
She excused herself from the table, her footsteps echoing through the corridors of the imposing Blight Manor. In her room, surrounded by familiar but stifling decor, she sank onto her bed, her mind consumed by a mix of frustration, sadness, and a lingering sense of defeat. She yearned for a life beyond the confines of her family's expectations, where she could explore her passions, forge her own path, and truly be herself.
Amity stared out of the window, the moon's gentle glow offering a glimmer of solace. She realized that her journey towards self-discovery and independence wouldn't be easy. It would require strength, resilience, and the courage to challenge the traditions that had bound her family for generations. But deep down, she knew it was a path she had to tread, for her own happiness and fulfillment.
With a resolute sigh, Amity made a silent vow to herself. She would find a way to balance the weight of her family's legacy with the pursuit of her own dreams. She would strive to prove that she was more than just a pawn in their game, more than the embodiment of their obscene values. She would carve her own path, even if it meant facing countless obstacles and defying the expectations placed upon her.
In that moment, as the stars twinkled in the night sky, Amity found a flicker of hope. Despite feeling defeated and trapped, she knew deep down that she possessed the strength to break free, to embrace her true self, and to create a future that aligned with her own aspirations. The journey ahead would be challenging, but Amity was determined to walk it, step by step, towards a destiny that was uniquely hers.
The key to that future… she hoped… was a certain lively human. Her human. Her escape. The cool air beat ceaselessly against the Blight Manor. Wavering the foundations of those that lie within.
A/N: And there's chapter two folks. Sorry if this was a wait. I really am dedicated to sticking to my upload schedule. Next chapter we will shift back to our Lumity moments. Some key relationship building and the like and a particularly sweet moment in the library. Should have the next chapter up before the start of next week. Stay beautiful y'all and enjoy!