Silver and Anthony strolled along the serene Seven Lagoon Lake, the picturesque scenery around them painted in the warm hues of early autumn. The gentle breeze rustled the leaves, creating a symphony of nature's whispers. The date had been a wonderful escape, the perfect blend of company and nature's beauty.
On October 4, 2025, the arrival of the impending fall season was unmistakable — the air grew crisper, the once-vibrant foliage green leaves began to transform into an array of warm hues, and throughout the Walt Disney Resort, the subtle emergence of Halloween decorations began setting up.
Silver, with his rolled hairdo, wore this white long-sleeve classic shirt that he tucked in which featured a button-down silhouette and long sleeves. He also put on a red wine sleeveless sweater top and long dark brown fitted pants held up with a light brown belt and a heart-shaped lock that Anthony gave him. To keep him warm from the cold autumn temperatures, he put on a red wine Princess-style knee-length coat dress that has a fit-and-flare silhouette, a set-in waistband and a notch collar with peak lapels. For the finished touch, he matched his coat dress with a red wine wool 1850s style bonnet and is decorated with white ruffles inside and small artificial maple leaves garland that were sewn above the ruffle hem of the crown bonnet. He wears a pair of white wrist-length gloves, white leggings that were hidden inside his pants and light brown Victorian lace-up boots.
Anthony put on this creamy cashmere roll neck sweater with long sleeves, fitted brown pants with dark leather belt that feature a gold buckled. He put on a slim fit long light apricot open trench wool coat featuring a single breast closure with two dark brown buttons, slit pockets, a back vent, notch lapel, seam detailing and collar. It's lined and is finished with a melton felt undercollar. He styled his outfit with a shining pair of dark brown plain toe oxfords shoes with white socks inside, a light apricot beanie on his head, a brown leather watch sat on his left wrist and he wore his lower ponytail with a brown hair tie. Last but not least, a pair of white fitted cotton gloves to warm his hands.
As they walked, Anthony's gaze shifted between the breathtaking scenery and Silver, who had his arms wrap around Anthony's left arm, his lips curving into a soft smile. "You know, fall is my favorite season of all time, and I've always admired the autumn aesthetic," he said in a warm and sincere tone. "The way nature transforms and the air carries that special crispness… it's like a beautiful transition, don't you think?" He glanced at Silver.
Silver returned Anthony's gaze with a fond smile, the breeze ruffled their hair gently as they walked, adding a soothing rhythm to their conversation.
"Oh absolutely," Silver replied. "As much as I favor spring season a lot more, there's something enchanting about the way the leaves change their colors in autumn, as if nature itself is putting on a grand show. It's a reminder that change can be beautiful, even in the midst of transitions."
They walked, their steps fell in sync, and the sun cast a warm glow over the lake, creating a shimmering reflection on the water's surface. The subtle rustling of leaves and the distant sounds of birds created a serene backdrop for their conversation.
Anthony's gaze shifted from the landscape to Silver, a soft and affectionate expression playing on his features. "I'm glad we can share this moment together," he said. "It feels like the perfect day for a peaceful stroll."
Their conversation flowed effortlessly, punctuated by shared laughter and the occasional tender exchange. The world around them seemed to fade into the background as they focused on each other, their connection growing stronger with every passing moment.
Anthony's keen eyes soon spotted a Starbucks stall in the distance. He gently squeezed Silver's arm and pointed it out. "Hey, there's a Starbucks over there. Would you like something warm? Maybe like coffee or hot chocolate?"
Silver's lips curved into a grateful smile as he looked in the direction Anthony was pointing. "Hot chocolate sounds good, thank you," he replied.
"Great," Anthony said, "I'll be right back. Feel free to admire the scenery while I grab our drinks."
With a nod and a soft squeeze of Anthony's arm, Silver watched as his companion made his way over to the Starbucks stall. He leaned against the railing near the lake, his gaze sweeping over the tranquil water and the trees that lined its banks. The beauty of the scene before him mirrored the warmth he felt inside his heart.
As Silver stood by with his arm resting on top of the railing, smiling and taking in the serene view of the lake, everything was going great until….
"Silver."
A voice called out his name, instantly causing his heart to skip a beat. The voice held a familiarity that sent a shock of surprise through him. He slowly turned around, and his eyes widened as he locked eyes with the unexpected figure before him – this feature strongly resembles a white bipedal stag with white feathered wings and cleft hooves as his feet. He has a very short tail and wears a navy deep blue velvet cloak featuring a hoodie with a golden-colored circular-shaped clasp.
Staghart.
It had been 9 months since their breakup back in January, and Silver had never anticipated running into his former partner again, especially in a place like this. The shock of seeing Staghart after all this time left him momentarily speechless, his mind racing to process the sudden encounter.
Staghart, the gargoyle deer from Silver's past, stood there with a surprise and uncertainty etched on his stone-like features. His eyes held a hint of longing, a reflection of the emotions that had once connected them.
Silver's heart was a whirlwind of feelings – surprise, nostalgia, and a touch of sadness. He cleared his throat, finding his voice after a brief moment. "Staghart," he replied, with much more prudent inquisitiveness.
The two stood there, a palpable tension hanging in the air. Memories of their time together flooded Silver's mind – the laughter, the conversations, the shared moments of vulnerability. But their breakup had been a painful necessity, a consequence of the fundamental differences that separated them.
Staghart's gaze wavered for a moment, and he took a step closer, his voice lintering with reluctance. "It's been a while… I never thought I'd see you again."
Silver managed a small, bittersweet smile. "Likewise," he admitted, giving him a curtsy. "How have you been, Staghart?"
Staghart let out a deep sigh, his stony features softening with a tinge of sorrow. "Time has little meaning for me, as you know. But I've had my share of contemplation."
Their conversation hung in the air, heavy with unspoken words and unresolved feelings. The unexpected encounter had brought a rush of emotions to the surface, forcing them to confront the past they had both moved on from.
Silver's heart ached with wistful comprehension. He knew that their paths had diverged for a reason, that the differences between them were insurmountable. Yet, seeing Staghart again brought back a flood of memories and a reminder of the connection they had once shared.
They just stood there, a gentle breeze ruffled the leaves around them, carrying with it a sense of both closure and the bittersweet acknowledgment of what could never be.
Staghart's appearance hadn't changed much since the last time they had crossed paths, but the weight of their history together hung heavily in the air. Memories of their time together, both as partners in crime and in a romantic relationship, flooded back when they were together 5 years ago.
"I'm back Silver!" Anthony, ever polite and with a warm smile, approached Silver from the Starbucks Stall and handed him his drink. "Here's your hot chocolate," he said, a soothing balm against the tension that had suddenly gripped the air. "Oh, and be careful, it's hot." He warns him. "It's best to just wait until it warms down a bit."
Silver turned toward Anthony, offering a somewhat strained smile. "Thank you," he said, tinged with unease. Anthony then noticed someone standing across from them, he turned around and looked at Staghart. Being a gentleman, he greeted him with a smile while handing Silver his drink. "Hello, I'm Anthony Draventon, how are you?"
Staghart's expression shifted from surprise to disbelief, his eyes widening as he struggled to process what he was seeing. The pieces of the puzzle seemed to click together in his mind, and his shock was palpable. He took a step back, his gaze alternating between Silver and Anthony.
Silver's heart sank as he watched Staghart's reaction. He knew that this encounter was complicated, but he hadn't anticipated just how much it would shake Staghart's understanding of reality.
Anthony, sensing the tension, exchanged a confused glance with Silver before turning his attention back to Staghart. "Is everything okay?" he asked, concerned for Staghart as he looked at his face.
Staghart's shock at seeing Silver with Anthony, surprise, confusion, and something else that Silver couldn't quite decipher.
His eyes widened and shifted between Silver and Anthony, his shock deepened. It was clear that he recognized Anthony's physical appearance, and the realization seemed to hit him like a thunderbolt. The truth that had been hidden from him for so long had suddenly come crashing down, revealing a reality he had never imagined.
Staghart's jaw dropped in realization. "No… it can't be. You're…"
Anthony's confusion deepened as he looked between the two. "Do you know each other?"
Silver's mind raced, the memories of their shared history flooding back. "Anthony. Do you remember the time on our first official date?"
Anthony looked back. "Yes, I remember," he answered, "you have mentioned before about meeting someone named 'Anthony' at Animal Kingdom, right? And he then reveals to be Staghart, the gargoyle who used my form as his human persona."
Silver nodded, his expression curious yet patient.
"Well," Silver's voice is tinged with a hint of sadness, "that over there, is Staghart, my former-partner. We were together for about five years, but our love... has faded away."
Anthony let out a shocking gasp, his gaze shifting back to Staghart, who was now staring at them with whatever emotions he is feeling right now. "So, he's the one who has my physical appearance?" Anthony asked, in incredulity and in disbelief.
Silver nodded. "Yes, he used to take a human form that looked exactly like you. But he didn't know about the real you. He thought he was just taking on a persona that didn't exist."
Anthony's shock slowly transformed into understanding as he processed the information. "So, that's why he looks so shocked right now," he murmured, his eyes never leaving Staghart.
"Exactly," Silver affirmed. "He's realizing that you're a real person, not just a persona he adopted."
Staghart's gaze remained fixed on Anthony, his shock gradually gave way to a complicated mixture of emotions. He had been living with a false identity, assuming a human form that he believed to be nonexistent. The revelation that there was a real Anthony had shattered the foundation of his understanding.
"But… you were supposed to be… You're not real!" He managed to speak.
Anthony's brow furrowed, his voice laced with concern. "I'm as real as they come."
Silver's voice quivered as he attempted to explain the unfathomable. "Staghart… this is Anthony. He's real. I promise."
Staghart's eyes darted between Silver and Anthony, a torrent of emotions cascading across his features. "But I have a human persona, with your face. Puck transformed me, erased my memory once I became human. I never realized… I never knew…"
Silver's heart ached as he saw the emotional turmoil that Staghart was going through. He took a step closer, his voice gentle and comforting. "Staghart, I know this is a lot to take in. But you're not alone in this. We're all here to understand and support you."
"I... I never meant for any of this," Staghart admitted, his voice tinged with regret. "I didn't know that there was a real Anthony... that I was taking on the form of someone else's existence."
The weight of the revelation hung heavily in the air, a web of emotions entangling the three of them. Anthony's expression softened as he regarded Staghart. "It sounds like this is a lot to process," he said gently, his words carrying a genuine concern for Staghart's feelings.
Staghart let out a shaky breath, his stone-like features softening with epiphany. "It's overwhelming, to say the least. To discover that the persona I've assumed was, in fact, someone else's existence… I never intended for any of this." Staghart's form began to shift, his stone exterior transforming into a more human appearance. And as the transformation completed, there stood Staghart, but with the same exact physical appearance as Anthony, same body type, same face shape, same eye color, same hairstyle, and the same height.
The shock of witnessing the transformation left both Silver and Anthony speechless for a moment. Staghart's voice, now bearing the same tone as Anthony's, held a touch of amusement. "I suppose I can't help but find the irony in this," he remarked, his gaze flickering between Silver and Anthony
Anthony blinked in surprise and bewilderment at the same time. "I guess... you really did take my physical appearance," he said, a wry smile tugging at his lips.
Silver couldn't help but let out a soft chuckle, the tension of the situation temporarily eased by Staghart's unexpected transformation and the humor that accompanied it. "It seems the truth can be stranger than fiction," he remarked, with gleeful relief.
Staghart's lips curved into a genuine smile, his gaze lingering on Anthony. "I must admit, I never imagined that the real Anthony would be standing right in front of me."
Anthony grinned, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "Well, here I am. And it looks like we have quite the unique story to share."
"So..." Silver shifted on his feet.
"What?" Staghart asked, his brow furrowing in confusion.
"You forgot something, Staghart," Silver said, breaking a cough.
Staghart's confusion deepened. "What do you mean?" he inquired.
Silver motioned discreetly with his eyes, prompting Anthony to look toward Staghart. Anthony's eyes widened, and he quickly bit his lip, trying to hide a gasp as he averted his gaze. His cheeks flushed with chagrin.
Staghart, however, was momentarily oblivious to the situation. He looked down at himself, puzzled. "I don't see anything wrong—"
Staghart frowned, upon glancing down at himself before his eyes widened in realization. His entire head turned a shade of red that rivaled autumn leaves, and he immediately covered himself with his cloak, a mortified expression on his face. Since he had transformed into a human with Anthony's appearance, he had forgotten one critical detail.
He wasn't wearing any clothes, except for his cloak.
"Oh, by the stars," he muttered under his breath.
Anthony, still looking away, couldn't help but let out a nervous laugh, his cheeks flushed in red. "Well, that's quite the oversight."
Staghart's blush deepened. "My apologies," he mumbled, a sheepish tone can be heard. "I completely forgot that when I transform into my human form, my clothes adjust to fit my form. But since I am not wearing….. anything, I am practically… bare. Also the fact that all of my clothes are currently being dried out to clean."
The awkward tension hung in the air as Staghart's face turned even redder. His mortification was shown as he realized the embarrassing predicament he had unwittingly found himself in. Silver stifled a chuckle, as he shared a glance with Anthony.
Anthony, trying to control his own laughter, cleared his throat. "Perhaps we should find a solution to this situation before someone else takes notice," he suggested with a half-smile, his eyes still avoiding the sight.
Staghart's gaze darted around in slight panic, realizing the potential consequences of his current state of undress. "You're right," he said, his voice slightly higher than usual. "I should... I need to fix this immediately."
With a quick movement, Staghart transformed back into his original form, his stone exterior enveloping him once more. The transformation was swift, and within moments, the gargoyle deer stood before them, his composed expression a stark contrast to his previous embarrassment.
Silver nodded approvingly. "That's better," he said, a playful glint in his eyes.
Staghart sighed in relief, his stone features relaxing as he glanced down at himself. "Thank you for sparing me further embarrassment."
Anthony finally turned back toward them, his cheeks still flushed. "I'm glad we could resolve the situation before it got any worse... complicated," he said with a wry smile.
Staghart's eyes held such appreciation as he met their gazes. "It's been a long time since I've used my human form," he admitted. "Since the time when Silver and I were together, actually. After our paths diverged, I found little reason to take on that persona."
Silver's expression softened as he listened. "I understand," he said gently. "It's a part of your past, a chapter that you've moved on from."
Staghart nodded, his gaze distant. "Mmhmm. Transforming into a human allowed me to experience life from a different perspective, to walk among humans and see the world through their eyes. But as time went on, I found solace in my true form."
Anthony's curiosity was piqued. "So, you preferred being your gargoyle self?"
Staghart's gaze shifted to the horizon, a contemplative expression on his features. "Yes. In my gargoyle form, people always recognized me for my deer gargoyle appearance, and it felt more authentic to who I am."
Anthony's curiosity was piqued as well. "What's it like, being a gargoyle?"
"Being a gargoyle is both a blessing and a burden." Staghart added. "In the Gargoyle's World, we are creatures of the night, protectors of the city and its inhabitants. During the day, we turn to stone, a unique ability that allows us to rest and recover. But now, in the Magical World of Disney, the rest of the other gargoyles including my clan and myself won't be turning into stone in the daytime."
Anthony nodded, absorbing the information. "That's fascinating. It must give you a unique perspective on the world."
Staghart's gaze held a hint of nostalgia. "Indeed, it does. I've witnessed the passage of time, the rise and fall of civilizations, and the ever-changing nature of humanity."
The curiosity in Anthony got the best of him. "And how did you come across the ability to take on a human form?"
Staghart's lips quivered in a small smile. "That's thanks to Puck, the Trickster and member of the Children of Oberon. He transformed me as a prank, using a spell that allowed me to take on a human appearance. But he took it a step further, erasing my memory of my true form. It was a game to him, a way to see how I would navigate the human world without my gargoyle instincts."
Anthony's eyebrows lifted in surprise. "So, you were living as a human without even realizing you were a gargoyle?"
Staghart nodded. "Yes. I believed I was a human named Staghart, and I created an entirely new identity for myself. It wasn't until my paths crossed with Silver's when he and Toren were in the Animal Kingdom and you probably know the rest is history when Silver told you about me."
Silver's expression softened. "And when you transform back into the gargoyle when you and I shared a kiss, it must have been quite a shock once memories began flooding in your mind."
Staghart's gaze turned inward for a moment. "It was a revelation, certainly. But it also brought a sense of clarity. I embraced my gargoyle form once again, and I found solace in being true to myself."
Anthony's eyes held a mixture of empathy and curiosity. "And now, seeing me in person, was it shocking to see someone who you used as your human form in person?"
Staghart's gaze shifted to Anthony, a thoughtful expression crossing his stone features. "Shocking might be an understatement," he admitted. "To think that the persona I had created, the face I had once adopted as my own, the human appearance I believed to be mine, was actually someone else's existence... It's a lot to process. I had no idea that there was a real Anthony until now. We, gargoyles, are supposed to take a form of our own, not someone else's look."
Anthony smiled understandingly. "I can only imagine how surprising and confusing that must be."
Staghart nodded, a faint smile tugging at his lips. "But I'm grateful for this encounter. It has given me a chance to reconcile a part of my past that I had long set aside."
Anthony's lips curved into a thoughtful smile. "I can only imagine how complex it must be to process all of this."
Staghart's gaze softened, and he met Anthony's eyes with a mixture of gratitude and sincerity. "Thank you for your understanding, Anthony. Your presence here has given me a new perspective on the choices I've made and the journey I've undertaken."
Silver nodded in agreement. "Anthony's presence has been a catalyst for many revelations today."
Anthony glanced between Silver and Staghart, a gentle smile gracing his lips. "It seems that today's outing has taken an unexpected turn, to say the least."
Staghart's lips quivered into a small smile. "Wellll, unexpected is an understatement."
Soon, the trio stood there, the gentle breeze whispering through the air as the complexities of their pasts had brought them together in a way they hadn't anticipated, and as they stood by the serene Seven Lagoon Lake, the bonds between them grew stronger.
Silver's gaze shifted between the two before staring into a distance. "You know," the two turned to look at him, "come to think of it." Silver's eyes met theirs, "is Puck well aware of what this 'spell' does to you before you transform into a human?"
Silver's question hung in the air, the curiosity and uncertainty can be heard in his expression. Staghart exchanged a knowing look with Silver before turning his gaze to Anthony, before back at Silver. It was a question that held the potential to unlock another layer of the story, revealing the intentions behind the enchantment that had shaped Staghart's human persona.
Staghart sighed. "I…. I do not know." The truth behind the origins of his human persona remained shrouded in mystery, and it seemed that even he had yet to uncover all the details.
Anthony's brow furrowed. "You mean you don't know if this Puck guy was fully aware of the implications of the transformation he cast upon you? Doesn't one of his spell books or something like that have a description written on it on what this spell or magic does?"
Staghart nodded, his brow furrowed in contemplation. "Probably. But I've never thought that it's possible that he may have used a form of magic that isn't well-documented or that he tailored the spell, or even experimented with the spell he created and used on me as his first test subject."
Silver's gaze shifted between Anthony and Staghart, a mixture of concern and intrigue in his eyes. "So, there's a chance that he may not even be aware of the full extent of what the spell does?"
Staghart sighed, his gaze distant. "It's possible. Puck is a trickster, and his motives often extend beyond our understanding. He may have woven the spell with a purpose in mind, but the intricacies of its effects might be beyond even his comprehension."
"So, you think Puck might have created this spell specifically for you?" The redhead asked.
Staghart's gaze turned inward as he considered the possibility. "It's difficult to say. I know that Puck is a trickster, after all. He delights in chaos and unpredictability. But it's possible that he crafted the spell as an experiment, without fully grasping the extent of its effects."
Silver's eyes shimmered with a mix of curiosity and concern. "If that's the case, then your transformation into a human with Anthony appearance might have been a result of Puck's mischievous intent."
Staghart nodded. "It seems likely. Puck's motives have always been enigmatic, and his actions often have far-reaching consequences."
Anthony's expression grew more serious. "So, what does this mean for you now? Knowing that your human persona was a result of Puck's unpredictable magic."
Staghart's gaze met theirs, a sense of determination in his eyes. "It means that I have a new layer of my past to unravel, to understand the choices that were made and the magic that shaped my existence. And perhaps, in understanding the origins of my human form, I can find a sense of closure."
Silver's voice was gentle as he spoke. "I think it's best that we need to talk to Puck about this and hope we come to understand why he did this."
Staghart's eyes held a mixture of determination and a hint of apprehension. "You're right. It's time to confront the source of this magic and seek answers."
Anthony's expression was resolute as well. "If Puck is responsible for this, then he owes you, Staghart," He faced Staghart, "an explanation, and perhaps answer to our question as to why he did this and what was his reason behind this."
The trio exchanged a meaningful look, each recognizing the significance of the path that lay ahead. Silver, Anthony, and Staghart were united by a shared journey of self-discovery, one that promised to uncover the truth behind Staghart's enigmatic transformation and shed light on the intentions of the mischievous trickster Puck.
Gargoyles World
In Manhattan, the city that never sleeps, the towering skyscrapers glistened under the moonlit sky. Atop one of the iconic buildings, the Eyrie Building, the stone gargoyles perched in their timeless vigil, their statuesque forms frozen in mid-action.
In the distance, a black vehicle was being driven on the road. The sleek, tinted windows of the car reflected the city lights as it navigated the streets with a quiet determination.
Inside the vehicle, the trio dressed in their finest. Their attire was elegant yet enigmatic, befitting a being of their status. The driver, a sleek and well-dressed individual, glanced at the three figures in the rearview mirror. "We're almost there, My Lord," the driver said, their voice respectful yet tinged with an underlying reverence.
The young man with the red hair nodded, his gaze still fixed on the city. "Good," he replied, his voice holding a quiet authority. "David Xanatos and his wife Fox are expecting us as we speak at the Eyrie Building. Let us see what revelations this night shall bring."
The trio's arrival at the Eyrie Building was met with a sense of anticipation, as if the very air crackled with unresolved questions and enigmatic possibilities. The vehicle came to a stop in front of the impressive structure, and the trio stepped out, their presence commanding attention.
They enter the building through one of the glass doors that lead them to the lobby of the Eyrie Building. The lobby of the Eyrie Building exuded an air of opulence and elegance with Art Decor design all around them. High ceilings adorned with intricate chandeliers cast a warm and inviting glow upon the brown marble floors. An air of sophistication wafted through the space, mingling with the subtle anticipation that hung in the air.
Anthony and Silver are still wearing their attire that they wore on their stroll on the Seven Lake Lagoon.
Meanwhile, it was Staghart who got all dressed up. He is dressed in a double-breasted jacket made of woven viscose-blend fabric. The jacket features a straight-cut, relaxed-fit design, narrow notched lapels, buttons at the front, and welt front pockets. It is also lined for added comfort. He pairs up with this white long-sleeve classic dress shirt that he also layers with this matching sweater top with long sleeves, dress pants with black leather belt held up and a pair of polish shoes.
"Welcome, My Lord," a well-dressed receptionist greeted the trio with a respectful nod. "Mr. and Mrs. Xanatos are waiting for you in their living room. They've been informed of your arrival."
The young man nodded in acknowledgment, his piercing blue eyes sweeping over the lobby. "Lead the way."
The receptionist gestured for them to follow and led them to the elevator. As the doors closed behind them, Silver, Anthony, and Staghart exchanged a look, the weight of their purpose hanging heavily in the air.
The elevator ride was brief but suffused with anticipation. When the doors opened, the receptionist led them to a set of double doors, where David and Fox Xanatos were waiting. The corridor was sleek and modern, lined with large windows that offered breathtaking views of the city below. Soon enough, they stepped out into the expansive living room of the Xanatos family. The room was adorned with opulent furnishings and tasteful decor, reflecting the affluence of its occupants, and the family portrait of the Xanatos family hung above the fireplace.
David Xanatos, a man of charisma and wealth, stood near the window overlooking the city skyline. His wife, Fox, elegant and composed, was seated on a plush couch nearby. As the trio entered and the sound of the doors opened, their gazes met.
"Ah, you've arrived," David Xanatos said in a smooth and authoritative way. "Welcome to our home."
Fox smiled warmly, her eyes crinkling at the corners. "It's a pleasure to have you here."
"Thank you for having us, Mr. Xanatos," Anthony replied, cordial yet tinged with formality. "Allow me to introduce my companions. This is Silver Willow, my partner, and Staghart."
Silver shook David's hand with a gentle grip, a smile on his face. "Pleasure to see you again, Mr. Xanatos, how is your son, Alex?"
Anthony looked at Silver with a slightly surprised expression. "Oh, I didn't know you were acquainted with my partner Silver. How did you two meet him?"
Silver smiled at Anthony's question. "Mr. Xanatos and I met a while back when I was hired to babysit Alex. They were kind enough to entrust me with looking after their son when they are busy with their job. I've had the pleasure of spending time with him on a few occasions."
David Xanatos chuckled. "Silver here has been quite a reliable babysitter. Alex always looks forward to his visits. Especially telling him a stories about the princesses and how you has been communicating with animals at the park that you took him."
Fox nodded in agreement. "Yes he is, Silver seems to have a special way with children. We don't trust anyone beside Puck or Lexington to watch our son over expect Silver."
Anthony grinned, pleased with the revelation. "It seems you have a way with children, Silver."
Silver's cheeks tinted with a faint blush. "Thank you. I've always had a fondness for children, especially babies."
Fox smiled warmly, her gaze shifting to Staghart. "And this is Staghart, I presume?"
Staghart inclined his head in a polite nod, his stone features composed yet not devoid of curiosity. "Yes, that's correct. It's a pleasure to meet you, Mrs. Xanatos."
Fox's smile remained gracious as she extended a hand. "The pleasure is mine, Staghart."
Staghart shook her hand with a gentle touch, his gaze lingering on her with a touch of appreciation. "Thank you for welcoming us into your home."
As they engaged in polite conversation, the trio's presence seemed to hint at a purpose beyond mere socializing, and David Xanatos's perceptive gaze didn't miss the undercurrent of significance.
"Please, have a seat," David Xanatos gestured to the plush seating arrangement with a coffee table in the middle. "We're all ears. What brings you here today?"
Anthony exchanged a glance with Silver and Staghart as both took a seat before turning his attention back to David and Fox who sat across from them. "We've come seeking information," he began, his tone earnest. "Specifically, information related to a spell or magical transformation that may have been cast by a certain trickster."
David Xanatos's interest was piqued, his expression growing more attentive. "A spell cast by a trickster, you say? That certainly sounds intriguing. Can you provide more details?"
Staghart took a step forward, his voice holding a sense of determination. "The spell in question transformed me into a human with an appearance that I believed to be unique. However, recent events have revealed that the appearance I adopted was, in fact, that of someone else's existence. Allow me to show you two."
Staghart took a deep breath, his gaze focused as he summoned the magic within him. With a swift motion of his hand, his stone-like form began to shift, the transformation unfolding before the eyes of David and Fox Xanatos. Slowly, Staghart's appearance began to change, his features shifting into an uncanny resemblance to Anthony's physical form.
The transformation was both fascinating and disconcerting, as Staghart's gargoyle deer form morphed into a human figure that bore Anthony's unmistakable face, hair, and stature. As the change completed, Staghart stood before them, now the spitting image of the young man they had come to know.
David and Fox Xanatos exchanged a surprised glance, their eyes widening in astonishment. The transformation was a testament to the intricate and powerful magic that was at play, and it was clear that the implications of this revelation were not lost on them.
Anthony's voice was calm yet filled with gravity. "This transformation, as you can see, granted Staghart a human form that is indistinguishable from mine. However, he didn't know that I existed. He believed he was assuming a unique identity. And now, with the knowledge that he has been using someone else's appearance, we've come to understand that this transformation is the result of magic."
David Xanatos studied Staghart's transformed appearance with a keen gaze, his mind clearly working through the implications of the situation. "Magic that allows someone to take on another person's appearance... That's a powerful enchantment."
Fox's expression was thoughtful as she looked at Staghart, her gaze shifting to Anthony, to Staghart, to Anthony, and to Staghart. "It's almost uncanny how much you resemble Anthony. But… I don't understand, aren't gargoyles supposed to take their own human form that resembles their gargoyle appearance?" She asked. "I mean, I would be shocked if one of the gargoyles took my form as theirs. That's like identity theft." She placed her hands on her hip. "Stealing someone else's likeness? I would be worried if they committed a crime using my likeness, the cops would have me arrested for something I didn't do and they wouldn't believe me."
David Xanatos nodded in agreement with his wife's observation before looking at her. "You're right about that, Fox. Goliath and his other Gargoyle friends are known to take human forms that mirror their own features." He then stared back at Staghart. "But this kind of transformation, replicating the appearance of someone else, is not something I would see."
"But your wife has a valid point," Staghart said, his tone contemplative. "Gargoyles taking on someone else's appearance, especially that of a real person, is a serious matter which could lead to misunderstanding and misdeeds. It raises questions about the motives behind such a transformation."
Fox's gaze held a touch of skepticism as she leaned forward slightly. "But how can you be sure it was Puck? There are other powerful magic users in the Disney universe who might have the means to cast such a spell. There are many powerful sorcerers, witches, wizards, and enchanters who could have orchestrated such a spell."
Staghart's gaze shifted between the Xanatos couple, his expression thoughtful. "You make a valid point, Mrs. Xanatos. While Puck is a likely suspect due to his penchant for trickery, it's true that there are other individuals with magical abilities who could have been involved."
David Xanatos nodded in agreement. The Disney universe is filled with characters who possess formidable magical and powerful skills. From Maleficent to Jafar, from Queen Narissa to Merlin, and from Dr. Strange to Yen Sid, the list is quite extensive, it could be one of them who did this."
Silver nodded in acknowledgment of her question. "I can see why you think it could be one of them. There are certainly other magic users with the ability to cast powerful spells so it does make sense if one of them did this. However, we have reason to believe it was Puck who was responsible for this." He then faced Staghart, "Care to explain that to them?"
Staghart scratched his head to try and remember and said, "Well, you see, a while back, I asked Puck to transform me into a human." He started to explain to them. "However, he decided to have some fun and made me forget that I was originally a gargoyle. That's how I became Anthony and met Silver in Animal Kingdom. After the whole incident with the frog curse, Dr. Strange turned me back into a gargoyle. But then, I forgot all about my time as Anthony as if my memory as Anthony didn't exist or happen."
He continued on, "During our battle to regain control of the Haunted Mansion in the Hex invasion, I was blasted out of the house and ended up in Dr. Facilier's shop. One accidental spill of a potion later, I transformed back into Anthony again. Breaking the spell required a true love's kiss, but even after the spell was broken, somehow I managed to retain my human persona."
David Xanatos listened attentively to Staghart's explanation, his brows furrowing slightly as he processed the information. "Hmmm, interesting." He said. "So, Puck cast a spell on you that not only transformed your appearance but also altered your memories? That's quite an intricate enchantment."
Staghart nodded, frustrated in his gaze. "And it seems that Puck took great pleasure in weaving a complex web of magic that manipulated my perception of reality. I believed that I was always human, that my gargoyle form was merely a figment of my imagination."
Fox leaned forward, her expression thoughtful. "And now, with the memories flooding back after you break the spell, you've come to realize the true nature of your human persona from the start."
David Xanatos' gaze turned to Staghart and Silver. "But how did you come to know that Anthony is real? When did that happen?"
Silver exchanged a meaningful glance with Anthony before he began to explain. "It was back in early June when Anna, Rapunzel, Jasmine, and Ariel and I uninvitedly attended the Draventon 270th Anniversary Mask Ball, that's where I met Lord Anthony Francis Draventon, son of his father, the 7th Duke Edward Draventon. I was extremely shocked that I could have died from the heart attack the moment Anthony removed his mask to reveal his face to me.
Anthony chimed in. "Silver told me about how Staghart has been using my appearance as his human persona on our official first date."
Staghart's finished off. "But now, with the revelation that my human form was an imitation of someone else's existence, I believe it's time to seek answers from Puck."
Anthony's voice held a sense of determination. "We want to understand the purpose behind this transformation, the motives that drove Puck to orchestrate it, and the implications it may have for Staghart and others."
Silver nodded. "Yes. And it's come to our attention that Staghart's transformation might have been orchestrated by Puck."
David Xanatos's lips quirked into a wry smile. "Ah, Puck. A master of chaos and mischief. I've had my fair share of encounters with him."
Anthony's expression turned more serious. "We know that Puck has cast this transformation spell on Staghart as some form of experimentation or a prank, without fully comprehending its implications."
David Xanatos's gaze grew contemplative. "Puck's magic is unpredictable, to say the least. It's possible that even he might not have foreseen the consequences of such a transformation."
There is a hint of concern in Silver's voice. "And that's what we're hoping to uncover. The intentions behind this transformation, the motivations that drove Puck to cast such a spell, and the truth about its effects."
Fox leaned forward slightly, her gaze sympathetic. "It sounds like you've been through quite the ordeal. Seeking answers is a noble pursuit."
Staghart nodded, his expression resolute. "I believe it's time to confront Puck and seek the truth, to understand the reasons behind this transformation that has shaped a significant part of my existence."
Alexander "Alex" Xantos's Room
Puck, the mischievous trickster, was in the midst of tutoring Alexander "Alex" Xanatos, the young sorcerer, in the finer points of magic. The room was filled with kid toys, drawing paper hung on the wall with tapes, books on the bookshelf with some action figures. Puck, with his ever-present grin, was in his element as he animatedly explained the intricacies of a particularly complex spell.
Suddenly, the door creaked open, and David and Fox Xanatos entered the room, flanked by Silver and Staghart. Puck's gaze shifted from his lesson to the unexpected guests, his eyebrows arching in mild surprise.
David Xanatos's lips quirked into a knowing smile as he surveyed the scene. "We thought we'd pay a visit to Alex's lesson today. Hope we're not interrupting anything."
Puck sits on top of the desk. "Oh, not at all. Just imparting a little magical wisdom to our young sorcerer here."
Fox smiled as she looked at Puck. "We appreciate your guidance, Puck. Alex's learning a lot from you."
Alex looked up from his magical notes, his eyes lighting up at the sight of his parents before walking up to them. "Mom, Dad, you're here!"
David ruffled his son's hair affectionately. "Of course, we wanted to see how your lessons are progressing."
Alex looked at Silver with a mix of surprise and delight. "Silver! You're here too?" He exclaimed with excitement.
Silver's smile was warm as he crouched down to Alex's eye level. "Indeed, I'm here," he replied, his voice gentle. "It's been a while, hasn't it?"
Alexander nodded enthusiastically, his eyes wide. "Yeah! You used to tell me stories about princesses and how you talk to animals at the park!"
Silver chuckled. "Well I hope you are behaving well with your parents."
Staghart stepped forward, his gaze focused on Puck. "We have something important to discuss, Puck. Something that concerns magic and transformations."
Puck raised an eyebrow, his grin widening. "Well, well, well, what do we have here? A little surprise gathering?"
Staghart's eyes glinted with a hint of humor. "More like an impromptu magic intervention."
Puck's eyes twinkled mischievously as he regarded them. "Ah, Staghart! My favorite gargoyle-deer friend! How's the human world treating you?"
David's voice was laced with amusement. "You know how much we value your magical expertise, Puck."
Fox's gaze shifted to Staghart before focusing on Puck. "Staghart has an interesting story to share about a transformation spell."
Puck's interest was piqued, and he leaned forward with mock curiosity. "Oh really? Do tell, Staghart."
Staghart took a deep breath, his voice steady as he began to recount his tale. "Puck, you see, there was a time when I asked you to transform me into a human. However, that transformation came with a twist. Not only did it change my appearance, but it also altered my memories, making me believe that I had always been human."
Staghart paused dramatically, taking a step back as he gestured to himself. With a flourish, he summoned the magic within him, and his form began to shift once again, the transformation unfolding before Puck's eyes. Slowly, Staghart's gargoyle deer appearance began to change, morphing into his human form.
Puck's eyes widened in amusement as he watched Staghart's transformation. "Well, well, well," he exclaimed, his grin growing wider, "It has been a long time since I saw your human form since you asked me to turn into one."
Staghart's transformed human form stood before Puck, his expression a mix of determination and resolve. "But here's the twist, Puck. This human form I took on, the appearance I believed to be my own unique identity, is, in fact, a replica of someone else's existence."
Puck's eyebrows knitted together in confusion as he regarded Staghart. "Replica of someone else's existence? What are you talking about?"
Silver stepped forward, his expression earnest. "Staghart's human appearance, the one that you helped create, is a spitting image of someone else, Puck. It's an appearance that belongs to a real individual."
Puck's expression shifted from curiosity to utterly confused, his eyebrows furrowing as he regarded Staghart with genuine intrigue. "Wait, hold on a second. Time out. Are you saying that the appearance you took on as a human was actually someone else's look?"
"That's precisely what Staghart is saying." A voice call out.
Everyone turned to see Anthony stepping into the room with serious looks on his face as he stared at Puck. "I'm that someone else, Puck. The human appearance that Staghart adopted was mine."
Puck's eyes widened in surprise, his mouth opening slightly in shock. His gaze shifted rapidly between Staghart and Anthony, his expressions shifting from disbelief to realization, to amusement, to astonishment, and back again.
Anthony's grin was mischievous as he crossed his arms. "Surprised to see me, Puck?"
Puck sputtered for a moment, his composure momentarily shattered. "But... but... how is this possible?!"
Silver's voice was calm as he stepped forward. "Puck, meet the real Anthony. Lord Anthony Francis Draventon, son of the 7th Duke Edward Draventon."
Staghart's lips quivered into a half-smile. "Surprise, Puck. Turns out your little experiment had a few unforeseen consequences."
Puck's eyes shifted back and forth between Staghart's human persona and Anthony, his mind clearly racing to process the reality before him. "But... I... How? You weren't supposed to exist! You weren't suppose to be real at all!"
Anthony's chuckle was both knowing and amused. "Well, it seems reality can be quite unpredictable, even for someone of your magical prowess."
David Xanatos couldn't help but interject with a smirk. "Looks like you underestimated the power of your own magic, Puck."
Fox's gaze held a glint of amusement as she regarded the scene. "It appears that your mischief has come full circle."
Puck's expression was a mixture of shock, bemusement, and a hint of pride, all rolled into one. He let out a hearty laugh, clapping his hands together. "Well, I'll be a monkey's uncle! I must say, you've caught me off guard this time, and I'm thoroughly entertained!"
Staghart's gaze held a hint of skepticism as he regarded Puck. "Entertained? Puck, you've woven a complex web of magic that shaped my existence for years. I've lived believing I was someone else, that my appearance was unique."
Silver's tone was thoughtful. "And the memories, Puck? Why make Staghart believe he was always human?"
Puck leaned against the wall, his eyes glinting with mischief. "A little twist to keep things interesting. I mean, where's the fun in turning him into a human if he doesn't fully believe it? Besides, what's a good transformation without a bit of memory magic to keep things entertaining?" He then grinned. "And beside, isn't magic all about surprises and unpredictability? A little twist here, a little mischief there, and voila! We have a story for the ages."
Anthony's tone was more serious as he looked at Puck. "It may be a story for the ages, Puck, but it's also a story that has raised questions and created confusion. I've lived my life back home in the UK, unaware that across the pond someone else was using my appearance as their own. It's not just a prank, Puck. It's a disruption of identity. He could have done something wrong using my appearance for something I didn't do!"
Puck rolled his eyes. "Oh lightning it up will you? It's just a joke!" He defended himself. "I don't see anything wrong with that. And besides, Staghart had not committed any crime at all when using his human appearance so that's a good part."
Silver's tone remained firm as he addressed Puck's defense. "While it might seem like a harmless joke to you, Puck, but this particular incident raises ethical concerns. Manipulating identities and causing confusion can have unintended consequences, as Anthony pointed out."
Staghart, stepped forward. "Puck, I understand your affinity for mischief, but as someone who was unknowingly part of your magic, I have to agree with Silver. There are ethical considerations to be acknowledged."
Anthony's eyes softened as he regarded Staghart, his gaze filled with a mix of empathy and understanding. "Staghart is right, Puck. Magic or not, consent and honesty matter. Imagine living your life only to discover that your existence was shaped by someone else's whims."
Puck let out a sigh, his shoulders slumping. "Fine, fine. I get your point. Perhaps I got carried away this time."
David Xanatos smirked again. "Seems like even the Trickster King can learn a lesson or two."
Fox's voice was gentle as she added, "We all grow and evolve, even beings of magic."
Puck rolled his eyes dramatically. "Oh, spare me the life lessons, will you? So, what now? You three already got the answer you are looking for, so what's your next move?"
Staghart's voice was resolute as he addressed Puck. "Now, I have a request for you, Puck. I would appreciate it if you could grant me a new physical appearance, one that is truly mine and not borrowed from anyone else. I'd rather not continue using Anthony's form as my own. It's not truly mine."
Puck raised an eyebrow, his mischievous grin returning. "Oh, really now? And what kind of appearance are you aiming for this time, Staghart?"
Staghart's expression was thoughtful, his eyes narrowing as he considered his words carefully. "I want an appearance that reflects both my true self and my heritage. Something unique, something that speaks of my origins but also of the person I have become."
Anthony nodded in agreement. "A noble aspiration, Staghart. To be true to oneself and honor one's roots."
Silver's gaze held a touch of respect as he regarded Staghart. "It takes courage to seek an identity that aligns with your own essence rather than mimicking others."
Puck clapped his hands together, his eyes glinting with mischief once more. "Well, let's see what I can come up with!"
Staghart chuckled, his skepticism mingling with anticipation. "Just promise me, Puck, no more borrowing from unsuspecting humans."
Puck held up a hand in a mock oath. "Scout's honor, Staghart. A completely original creation, just for you."
As Puck's magic began to weave its intricate threads once again, the gathering watched with curiosity and amusement, eager to see what new appearance would emerge for the shape-shifting trickster known as Staghart.
Staghart closed his eyes as Puck's magic enveloped him, his form beginning to shift and change. The energy in the room seemed to shift, as if the very essence of Staghart's being was being reshaped by the threads of magic that surrounded him. Slowly, almost imperceptibly at first, changes began to take place.
Staghart's form started to shift, his body elongating as his limbs seemed to stretch and reshape themselves. His shoulders broadened as his posture straightened, giving him an air of confidence and poise. His clothing began to adjust, transforming into something more fitting for his new appearance.
His hair began to change, the color shifting from its previous shade to a bright, radiant dove white. The strands of hair fell in soft waves around his face, framing features that were now taking on a distinctly human form. His face, which had once held the noble features of the borrowed appearance, started to shift.
His jawline became more defined, the angles of his cheeks softened just enough to give him a more approachable and youthful appearance. His lips remained full and expressive, but their shape shifted slightly to fit his new countenance. As the transformation continued, his eyes, which had once held an otherworldly quality, changed as well.
They became larger, taking on a doe-like appearance that seemed to exude both innocence and curiosity. The color shifted, too, becoming a warm and inviting shade of hazel. His nose transformed into a snub shape that added a touch of playfulness to his features.
Staghart's skin underwent a subtle change, its texture becoming smoother and more refined, with a gentle pale complexion that seemed to glow with an otherworldly radiance. His body settled into its new form, a lean and build that appeared to look like a 23 years old male body.
As the last traces of magic dissipated, the room fell into a momentary silence, broken only by the soft sound of Staghart's breathing. He stood there, his new human appearance exuding an air of quiet elegance and charm. A smile tugged at the corners of Staghart's lips, his fingers tracing over his own features in amazement. "This... this is me?"
Puck held up a hand in a mock oath. "Scout's honor, Staghart. A completely original creation, just for you."
As Puck's magic began to weave its intricate threads once again, the gathering watched with curiosity and amusement, eager to see what new appearance would emerge for the shape-shifting trickster known as Staghart.
Staghart closed his eyes as Puck's magic enveloped him, his form beginning to shift and change. The energy in the room seemed to shift, as if the very essence of Staghart's being was being reshaped by the threads of magic that surrounded him. Slowly, almost imperceptibly at first, changes began to take place.
Staghart's form started to shift, his body elongating as his limbs seemed to stretch and reshape themselves. His shoulders broadened as his posture straightened, giving him an air of confidence and poise. His clothing began to adjust, transforming into something more fitting for his new appearance.
His hair began to change, the color shifting from its previous shade to a bright, radiant dove white. The strands of hair fell in soft waves around his face, framing features that were now taking on a distinctly human form. His face, which had once held the noble features of the borrowed appearance, started to shift.
His jawline became more defined, the angles of his cheeks softened just enough to give him a more approachable and youthful appearance. His lips remained full and expressive, but their shape shifted slightly to fit his new countenance. As the transformation continued, his eyes, which had once held an otherworldly quality, changed as well.
They became larger, taking on a doe-like appearance that seemed to exude both innocence and curiosity. The color shifted, too, becoming a warm and inviting shade of hazel. His nose transformed into a snub shape that added a touch of playfulness to his features.
Staghart's skin underwent a subtle change, its texture becoming smoother and more refined, with a gentle pale complexion that seemed to glow with an otherworldly radiance. His body settled into its new form, a lean and build that appeared to look like a 23 years old male body.
As the last traces of magic dissipated, the room fell into a momentary silence, broken only by the soft sound of Staghart's breathing. He stood there, his new human appearance exuding an air of quiet elegance and charm. A smile tugged at the corners of Staghart's lips, his fingers tracing over his own features in amazement. "This... this is me?"
Puck grinned, before summoning a floating mirror in front of Staghart. "Yep, Staghart, all you. No borrowed looks this time. See for yourself."
Staghart stepped forward, his eyes widening as he gazed at his reflection in the mirror. A mixture of wonder and joy danced across his features as he took in his new appearance. His fingers brushed over his white hair, his hazel eyes studying every detail with a sense of awe. "I can't believe it. It's... it's incredible," Staghart breathed, his voice tinged with awe. "I finally feel like... like me."
Staghart turned to Puck, gratitude in his eyes. "Thank you, Puck. For granting me a form that is mine alone and not someone else."
Puck shrugged with an air of nonchalance. "Well, even tricksters can do something nice once in a while."
Silver's voice held a touch of amusement. "Perhaps this experience has taught even the trickster a thing or two about the importance of identity."
Staghart's gaze shifted between the assembled group, his expression thoughtful. "Well, it has been quite the lesson. And I believe it's a lesson worth remembering."
Anthony nodded in agreement. "Identity is a precious thing, Staghart. Cherish it, and let it guide you in your future endeavors."
David Xanatos smirked. "Who would've thought? Puck, the benevolent."
Fox's chuckle filled the room. "Miracles do happen."
Puck raised his hands dramatically. "Alright, alright, enough with the sentimental speeches. Time to wrap things up, my dear mortal friends. You've got your lessons, your transformations, and your heartwarming moments. Now, off you go!"
Staghart chuckled, his new human form giving him a vibrant and lively presence. "Thank you again, Puck. I'll remember this."
Silver nodded with a smile. "Take care, Puck. And remember, the consequences of your actions can ripple far beyond your intentions."
Puck rolled his eyes dramatically. "Yeah, yeah, I've learned my lesson, you old philosopher."
As the group started to exit out of Alex's room, Puck turned his attention to the side, where Alex had been quietly observing the entire scene. "Ah, Alex my boy, sorry for the interruption. Where were we with your magical lesson?"
Alex's eyes were wide with wonder, having witnessed the magical transformation and the insightful conversation that followed. He shook his head, still trying to process everything. "That was... incredible. I've never seen anything like it."
Puck's mischievous grin returned as he winked at Alex. "Well, kid, welcome to the world of magic. Now, let's get back to our lesson, shall we?"
The group began to walk down the hall, Staghart then turned to look at Anthony's eye. "Hey Anthony, listen, I hope you know that I never intended to cause any harm by assuming your appearance. It was a desperate act, born out of my own longing to experience what it is like to be human."
Anthony's smile was understanding. "Staghart, I bear no ill will. You have no idea that your old human form is actually waking among you. In fact, I'm glad this experience allowed me to meet you. Our shared face brought us together, and now our shared understanding bonds us."
Soon, they has all arrive at The Atrium that is located in the large space beneath Castle Wyvern. It is surrounded by glass windows and contains lush foliage and an artificial waterfall and stream with a bridge over it.
Anthony nodded at David and Fox with a knowing smile. "Thank you both for your insights and for being a part of this journey. We'll take our leave now."
David Xanatos extended a hand to Anthony, a wry grin on his face. "Always a pleasure, My Lord. Remember, if you ever need any assistance that involves Puck, don't hesitate to reach out."
Fox stepped forward and embraced Silver and Staghart in a warm hug. "Take care, both of you." She then faced Staghart. "I have a feeling we'll be hearing about your new human form from Goliath and the others."
Staghart smiled warmly at Fox. "Thank you for your help, Fox."
When the elevator door opened, Silver, Anthony, and the newly transformed Staghart stepped inside, and the doors closed behind them. Staghart turned to Anthony. "Well, this has been quite the adventure, hasn't it?"
Anthony chuckled softly. "Yes it has, Staghart. Meeting you has certainly been unexpected, but I'm glad it happened."
Silver's gaze was thoughtful as he looked at both of them. "Sometimes, the most unexpected encounters lead to the most meaningful connections."
The elevator ride continued in an unexpectedly funny, awkward silence. Staghart shifted from foot to foot, trying to find the right words to break the silence. Anthony cleared his throat and attempted to offer a reassuring smile. Silver, for his part, simply hummed along the elevator music.
Silver finally couldn't take the silence any longer and blurted out, "So….. Staghart, what have you been up to since we…. departed, back in January."
Staghart rubbed his neck, his newly human features showing a hint of bashfulness. "Oh, you know, the usual. Traveling around the world, exploring old ruins and finding old ancient artifacts with my London Clan."
"Oh good, good, good, good." Silver leaned against the elevator wall, his tone curious. "So… what else is new?"
Staghart's cheeks tinged with a faint blush as he glanced at Anthony, his smile becoming a bit more sheepish. "Well, there is something else that's new. I... I met someone."
Silver's eyes lit up with curiosity. "Oh really? Do tell."
Anthony's grin was mischievous. "Don't hold back, Staghart. We're all ears."
Staghart chuckled. "Alright, alright. So, there's this gargoyle named Lexington."
"Lexington?" Silver turned to look at him.
"Well," Staghart began with a fond smile, "ever since you and I went our separate ways, I found myself diving into my responsibilities within the London Clan. I think I wanted to keep myself busy, to fill the void that our parting left behind. But amidst all the exploration and adventures, I found something unexpected."
Silver raised an eyebrow, his curiosity piqued. "And what might that be?"
Staghart's sigh softened. "Lexington. He's a gargoyle from the Manhattan Clan."
Anthony leaned in, intrigued. "Tell us more about him."
Staghart's expression lit up as he spoke about Lexington.
"Well." He rubbed the bottom of his lip. "He's incredibly intelligent, resourceful, and kind-hearted. Lexington and I spent a lot of time together," Staghart said to them. "He was always there, whether it was to lend a listening ear or just to goof around and take my mind off things. He has this incredible knack for cheering people up, you know?"
Silver's expression softened, understanding the importance of having someone supportive during difficult times. "It sounds like Lexington was a real source of strength for you."
Anthony nodded in agreement. "Friends like that can make all the difference. Sometimes, it's the unexpected connections that end up being the most meaningful."
Staghart smiled, his gaze distant as he recalled memories. "Exactly. We've been through a lot together, faced challenges, had our share of laughs and serious talks. It's been... refreshing."
Silver leaned forward, curiosity dancing in his eyes. "So, has your friendship with Lexington evolved into something more?"
Staghart's cheeks flushed a deeper shade of pink. "Well. We spent a lot of time together, and one thing led to another. We're... well, we're dating."
Silver's eyebrows shot up in surprise. "Dating? That's wonderful news, Staghart!"
Anthony's eyes sparkled with amusement. "Indeed, quite the unexpected development."
Staghart chuckled, a mixture of happiness and bashfulness in his expression. "Yes, it was unexpected for me too, but in the best way possible. I've learned a lot through this whole experience, and meeting Lexington has been a highlight."
Silver grinned. "It's always heartwarming to find a connection that brings joy and companionship."
The elevator pinged as it reached the ground floor, and the doors slid open. Anthony stepped out first, followed by Silver and Staghart. The trio walked through the lobby, their conversation shifting to other topics.
As they reached the building's entrance, Anthony turned to Staghart with a warm smile. "It's been a pleasure getting to know you, Staghart. Take care of yourself and of Lexington."
Staghart nodded with gratitude. "Thank you, Anthony. It's been an honor to meet you as well."
Silver extended a hug to Staghart, a sincere smile on his face. "I wish you all the best, Staghart. And if you ever need advice or someone to talk to, don't hesitate to reach out."
Staghart hugged Silver back, his grip firm and appreciative. "I'll keep that in mind, Silver. Thank you."
Staghart turned to Anthony, his expression turning more serious. "Before we part ways, there's something I want to make clear, Anthony. I don't care about titles or lineage. What matters to me is how you treat those you care about. If you're serious about being with Silver, I hope you understand that he's someone special. He's been through a lot, and he deserves someone who will cherish and respect him."
Anthony blink in surprise before composing himself. "I appreciate your candor, Staghart. Rest assured, I don't take Silver's feelings lightly. He means a great deal to me, and I'll do everything in my power to treat him with the love and respect he deserves."
Staghart's expression softened, understanding and approval. "Good. I trust that you'll keep your word."
Silver's voice held a touch of teasing as he chimed in, "And if you don't, well, you'll have to deal with Staghart's protective side."
Staghart playfully nudged Silver's shoulder. "Hey, someone's got to look out for you."
Anthony chuckled. "I'm grateful for the warning and the sentiment, both of you. It's clear that you both care deeply for each other."
Staghart gently lifted Silver's hand, pressing a soft kiss to the back of his knuckles, as he has done this before when they were together back then. Silver's cheeks tinted with a delicate blush, his eyes meeting Staghart's with warmth and fondness.
With a soft smile, Staghart turned to face Anthony, with a nod of his approval and trust. Staghart then handed Silver's hand over to Anthony who then took his hand from Staghart's grasp, intertwining their fingers, commitment and determination in his touch.
As Staghart stepped back, he watched the entwined hands of Silver and Anthony, a contented smile gracing his lips. It was a symbolic passing of the torch, a gesture that spoke volumes about the bonds that had been formed and the trust that had been established.
With final farewells exchanged, Staghart turned and walked down the steps, his new human form moving blend in with pedestrians on the sidewalk. As he disappeared around the corner, Silver and Anthony watched him go.
Anthony wrapped his right arm around Silver's shoulder, pulling him close in a warm and affectionate embrace. Silver leaned into the hug, his own arm wrapping around Anthony's waist. The two shared a quiet moment.
As they held each other, Silver turned his head slightly and pressed a soft kiss to Anthony's cheek. Anthony's lips curved into a tender smile, before placing a kiss on the tip of Silver's nose.
With a final squeeze, Anthony released Silver from the hug, his hand lingering on Silver's shoulder for a moment. He stepped back and opened the door to the waiting black vehicle, gesturing for Silver to step inside.
Silver smiled appreciatively and climbed into the vehicle, settling into the comfortable seat. Anthony followed suit, sliding into the seat beside him. The door closed behind them, shutting out the sounds of the bustling city.
Anthony and Silver found themselves sitting side by side, their shoulders touching as they looked out of the tinted windows. The vehicle started to move smoothly through the streets, the city lights casting a gentle glow on their faces.
The vehicle continued its journey through the city, carrying them back home into the real world.
"Wait, so let me get this straight," Silver cried incredulously through the phone, "you're going on a date with Lexington?"
"A double date," Staghart repeated slowly. Leave it to Silver to only hear half the conversation- the part he wanted to hear. "And it's not with him. I'm bringing you to join us."
"Why?"
"What do you mean 'why'?"
Silver raised his left arch eyebrow. "I mean, why do you want your former-partner to go on a double-date with you?"
With the cellphone cradled between him and shoulder, Silver sighed as he folded his clothes after being cleaned from the laundry machine and dried up on the clothesline. To Staghart, Silver got a point, why was he going on a double date with his former partner? But to the deer gargoyle, it sounded like a good idea at the time but now he was having second thoughts.
"I don't know, Silver. I mean we are on good terms again and it's nice after all this time since we encountered each other unexpectedly at the Seven Lake Lagoon."
"But are you sure it's a good idea? It would be awkward to Lexington since he is a good friend to Brooklyn who is also a good friend to Gabriel who is also, also, a good friend to me." Silver expresses while putting on his clothes on one of the white hangers. "I'm not sure if Lexington is comfortable going on a double date with your partner's old partner."
Alright, one is done and-oh wait, the hanger is not facing the right way, better fix that.
"First of all," Silver began before putting Staghart on speaker and fixing his clothes hanger, "it won't be awkward, and secondly, you and I have been dating for, like, about five years ago. The past is in the past. And plus, I talk to Lexington and he is cool about this idea."
"But isn't it going to be awkward, though? Us, who we used to date together, going on a double date with our respectable partner?"
As if Silver would have forgotten that, or either he remembered it a little too well. When their relationship begins to crumble little by little, piece by piece, they barely see each other nor do they spend more time with one another. Silver has started to feel like they are growing apart from each other, but with their job and career, they don't have as much time for each other as they used to.
It took Silver a good five months for his heart to heal since they broke up back in January. Even since then, he'd believed that he would never find love again until he was dragged into the Draventon 270th Anniversary Mask Ball. But he ran into Staghart unexpectedly to say the least. Slowly, their relationship as friends started to grow, and well, here they are: discussing about them going on a double date, but not with each other.
"It'll be fine, Silver. I promise."
"Alright, well, I'll call you back when I console you with this idea with my partner, Anthony, and see if he is interested in going on a double date with you and Lexington."
Staghart was still on speaker as Silver quickly placed the fixed hanger back on the closet.
"Okay, I will. Bye, Silver."
"Bye," he called out before hanging up.
The silence in his room was now jarring.
Looks like it's time to call Anthony.
He took a deep breath and began calling Anthony on speaker and waited for him to answer while he placed one clothed onto his hanger and repeated the same process.
Anthony picked up on the fourth ring. "Hey, Silver, glad that you have decided to call me on Lunch time" he asked, sounding cheerful. "So what's up Princess Sil?"
Silver then chuckled at his nickname that Anthony gave him before took a deep breath and began speaking. "Listen, Anthony…."
Well then, Staghart has finally met the real Anthony, the guy whose human appearance Staghrt had been using all this whole time. What started as a playful experiment by Puck turned into a complex web of magic that led to a series of unexpected consequences. To think that the real Anthony was walking among him, not realizing that his identity is being used by someone else. After confronting Puck about this and demanding an explanation for it, Puck dextrose grants Staghart a new, unique appearance, breaking free from borrowed identities.
Speaking of human appearance, Staghart's new human look was meticulously designed to look like someone who could be immersed in mythical tales and stories. The scene captures the essence of magical transformation, drawing inspiration from the iconic metamorphosis of the Beast in "Beauty and the Beast." Just like the Beast's transformation from a fearsome creature into a handsome prince, Staghart's new human form exuded a similar sense of awe-inspiring change. At least now he won't be taking someone else's form.
Next Chapter: Silver and Anthony go on the double date with Silver's former partner Staghart and his partner Lexington.