In the hours of the early morning, the King's Castle nestled within Cinderella's World lay shrouded in tranquility. A hushed symphony of slumber, a soothing cadence enveloping the regal chambers in a cocoon of peace. All was still, the night's embrace gently cradling the realm, as if bestowing a serene prelude to the momentous day that awaited. The world around seemed to be resting in a comfortable slumber, while the stars decorated the sky, twinkling softly in the darkness. The moon cast its gentle glow over the castle's architecture, bestowing an ethereal ambiance upon the quietude that only the peaceful hours of the night could bring.
The guards, diligent in their patrol, moved silently in their patrols around the castle grounds. Clad in their uniforms and each holding a lantern in their hand as their only light in the darkness, they traversed the pathways with precise and measured steps, their attentive eyes scanning the surroundings, ensuring the safety and security of the castle both inside and out and no danger came in sight. Within the walls, the inhabitants of the castle lay in the deepest throes of slumber, nestled in the comforts of their chambers. It was the prelude to the most significant day — the morning of the royal wedding, a day with equal parts excitement and nervousness.
Amidst the night, Anthony's suite stood as a sanctuary of repose. The room bathed in a soft glow emanating from the moon, casting a light hue across the furnishings. The quietude was uninterrupted, the occupants lost in the embrace of a restful sleep, blissfully unaware of the forthcoming dawn set to illuminate the day of their royal union.
But in the stillness of this peaceful morning, an unexpected visitor arrived, unheralded and silent, secretly passing the watchful guards, their presence imperceptible to the slumbering groom. This visitor, covered in cloak, ventured forth, not through the grandiose halls or ornate doors of the castle, but through an unassuming entryway — the balcony of Anthony's suite.
In the soft serenity of the suite, Anthony lay in a peaceful slumber, his form nestled in the embrace of the silken sheets. He lay in the comfort of his bed, his chest rising and falling rhythmically with the cadence of slumber. Max, his loyal companion, lay at the foot of the bed, mirroring his master's rest.
The gentle tap echoed faintly in the quiet room, stirring Anthony from his slumber, he moved from one position to another. Then, another tap came again. His eyes fluttered open, momentarily dazed as the soft glow of dawn filtered through the windows. Max, stirred at the sound with a low rumble escaping his throat.
Anthony slowly sat up, glancing around the room until his gaze was drawn towards the balcony, where the faintest of sounds had originated. Max, now fully alert, stood beside the bed, emitting a low, protective growl, his instincts roused by the unfamiliar noise.
Carefully, Anthony swung his legs off the bed as he immediately put on his robe and grabbed his sword, his sock feet touching the cool floor as he moved closer to the balcony, Max trailing close behind him. With cautious steps, Anthony approached the balcony doors, the dim moonlight filtering through the curtains, casting an otherworldly glow upon the room.
As he drew closer and opened the curtains, the figure shifted, turning to face him. A surge of recognition flickered within Anthony as the features beneath the cloak came into view.
"Wait... Is that…." Anthony murmured, recognition dawning on his face.
The figure, partially obscured by the cloak's hood, raised a hand in a hushed gesture, a silent plea for discretion. A shiver of uncertainty tinged with curiosity ran through Anthony as he approached, trying to discern the identity of this unexpected visitor.
Finally, the figure reveals themselves as they pull down their hood, only appearing to resemble a white bipedal stag with white feathered wings, cleft hooves as his feet, and has a very short tail.
"Staghart…." The redhead soon-to-be groom gasps in soft volume before he cautiously approaches the balcony doors with Max keeping a protective vigil by his side. He unlocked the doors and opened them widely.
Staghart, seemingly gathering his resolve, finally spoke in a voice that held a trace of regret and urgency. "I apologize for the intrusion and the untimely visit, Anthony." He apologized.
"Staghart, what are you doing here?" Anthony's tone was firm but yet soft, annoyance creeping into his words. "It's 3 AM, and the castle is asleep. You can't just show up unannounced like this. The guards will suspect you to be an intruder and have you thrown into the castle dungeon!"
Staghart remained silent, his eyes still cast downward, a gesture of remorse or contemplation. Despite Anthony's insistence on an explanation, Staghart seemed hesitant or perhaps unable to articulate his purpose for this unexpected visit.
Growing increasingly frustrated by the lack of response, Anthony's patience wore thin. "Just, get inside," he finally relented, his voice firm. "But what I want is an explanation, and it better be a good one, or I'll have to alert the guards."
With that, Staghart stepped into the room and Anthony closed the balcony doors behind him, a cautious intrigue swirling within him as he awaited an explanation from the enigmatic visitor.
Staghart walked over to one of the sofas in the center of the room that's facing away from the window while Anthony sat on the other side from him with his arms crossed underneath his chests.
In the quiet room, the tension hung palpably between Anthony and Staghart. The rhythmic ticking of the clock reverberated through the space, punctuating the heavy silence that enveloped them. As the seconds ticked by, Anthony's patience wore thin, evident in the way his right hand fingers tapped his bicep, a clear sign of growing impatience. Staghart, his posture seemingly rigid, fidgeted with his fingers, a nervous habit that betrayed his unease. His gaze was fixed on the floor, averted from Anthony's inquisitive stare. The atmosphere thickened with each passing moment of silence, leaving an uncomfortable energy that seemed to linger in the room.
"I've had enough of this silence, Staghart," Anthony's voice was now steely, the threat implicit in his tone. Anthony, growing increasingly impatient, rose from his seat, "I warned you, Staghart. I'm going to alert the guards," he declared firmly, and was about to make his first step toward the door with the intent of summoning the castle's security.
Just as he was about to take one step forward Staghart, with a sudden urgency in his actions, reached out and gestured for Anthony to stay.
"Please," Staghart implored, holding his hands up, his eyes locking onto Anthony's. "I-I will speak, but... it's complicated, and I'm trying to find the right words. I promise I'll explain, but you have to trust me. Please sit down, let me gather my thoughts," Staghart pleaded, gesturing toward the empty seat opposite him.
Caught between frustration and a glimmer of curiosity, Anthony hesitated, his hand poised to summon the guards. Reluctantly, he relented and returned to his seat with a stern expression etched on his face. "Fine, but I'm not in the mood for games," Anthony stated.
Taking a deep breath, Staghart spoke. "Anthony, please, forgive my intrusion and the silent approach. It was imperative that I speak to you alone, away from any prying eyes or ears."
Anthony's expression softened slightly, curiosity mingling with his impatience. He settled back into his seat, while crossing his arms as he regarded Staghart. "Alright, you have my attention. But I need you to get straight to the point. What could possibly be so important that you risk passing through the guards and sneaking into the castle in the middle of the night, and why the secrecy?"
After a moment's pause, Staghart cleared his throat. "Anthony, I've heard about the upcoming royal wedding ever since the announcement of your engagement to Silver back in November." He paused, a fleeting look of regret passing over his features. "And….. eh…Congratulations… by the way."
Anthony's features softened slightly, a flicker of appreciation crossing his countenance. "Eh… yes. Thank you," he replied, a touch of warmth in his voice.
Staghart hesitated for a moment, his gaze flickering momentarily toward the balcony, as if contemplating the best way to express his thoughts. "I've... been keeping an eye on the happenings in the Magical World since it's on the Magical World News and practically everywhere," he finally revealed before looking back at Anthony. "I have my sources, Anthony. I've heard about the preparations for the royal wedding, and I couldn't ignore the significance of the day approaching."
A sense of unease crept over Anthony as he listened to Staghart's cryptic words. "And what does this have to do with your sudden appearance here, in my suite, at this hour?" Anthony demanded, his voice a blend of restless unease about this.
Staghart paused, his eyes then locking with Anthony's. "Can you.. promise me something, Anthony?" he asked.
Anthony's brows furrowed in confusion. "P… Pardon?"
Staghart repeated his request, his voice firm yet tinged with a note of desperation. "Promise me, Anthony. Promise me you'll take very good care of Silver."
Anthony blinked, taken aback by the unexpected request. "Staghart, what are you talking about?" He slightly softened to him, a note of concern edging into his voice. "Of course, I'll take care of Silver, he is going to be my husband in a few hours, but why do you ask me about this?"
Staghart drew a deep breath. "Anthony, you need to understand… When Silver and I parted ways from our five year relationship with each other, we had a conversation about our relationship, about our differences, and about what the future held for us."
Anthony's expression softened, sensing the gravity in Staghart's voice. "Go on," he urged gently.
"I... I'm an immortal being," Staghart continued, "I've watched Silver grow since he was 17 and change over the years. I knew that he would continue aging while I remained unchanged, trapped in the circle of immortality." He paused. "The thought of witnessing him age and ultimately losing him, it's a pain I wouldn't wish on anyone."
Anthony's eyes widened slightly in comprehension, a flicker of realization dawning upon him. "You're… You're afraid of…. of outliving him," he murmured with empathy. "Am I right?"
Staghart nodded solemnly. "Yes, you are correct. Silver and I discussed this, and I wished for him to find someone who could share his life, someone who could grow old with him, someone to create a family and cherish those moments that I can never have or can't give him."
A wave of understanding washed over Anthony, a deep sense of empathy for both Silver and Staghart swirling within him. "And you believe that someone is me?" Anthony was optimistic astonishingly, believing if this someone was him.
Staghart nodded solemnly, his gaze unwavering, quite ambivalent. "I know you and Silver are different individuals, with your own story to unfold. But, Anthony, he's a special person, someone who's lived a life intertwined with magic, wonder, and a complex web of emotions."
Staghart met Anthony's gaze, something akin to hope in his eyes as he took the redhead's hands into his. "Silver has found happiness with you, Anthony. He sees a future with you, a life where he can experience those milestones and share his deepest joys. I hope… I hope you can make him happy, love him, and cherish him, just as I did when Silver and I were together."
Anthony nodded, his thoughts racing as he processed Staghart's heartfelt plea. "I care deeply for Silver. I want nothing more than to make him happy," he affirmed, sincerity coloring his words.
Staghart's expression softened, a semblance of relief was shown in his features. "I understand this is all unexpected, and I apologize for the intrusion. But I had to speak to you, Anthony. It's essential that you understand Silver's desires, his hopes for the future."
Anthony regarded Staghart with a newfound respect, the weight of responsibility settling upon his shoulders. "I promise you, Staghart, I'll do everything in my power to make Silver happy, to love and cherish him for all the days of our lives," he vowed, his voice firm and resolute.
Staghart offered a small, grateful smile. "Thank you, Anthony. You've given me hope that Silver's future will be filled with love and happiness."
"Staghart, if I have to ask," Anthony spoke softly, breaking the pensive silence. "Why now? Why did you feel the need to come to me tonight, just hours before the wedding? Why couldn't you tell me a few months ago? Why now?"
Staghart's gaze shifted, there was determined hesitation in his eyes when Anthony asked him. "I had to be sure," he admitted, through his words. "I needed to see for myself, to ensure that Silver is in good hands, to know that he'll be loved and cared for as he jumps into this new chapter he will undertake."
The weight of responsibility settled more firmly on Anthony's shoulders, a profound understanding of the significance of the upcoming day dawning upon him. "You have my word, Staghart," Anthony unwavering affirmed. "I'll take care of him, protect him, and love him with all that I am. His husband."
With a nod of acknowledgment, Staghart turned toward the balcony, a silent acknowledgment of the gravity of the situation and the trust he'd placed in Anthony. But as Staghart was about to move toward the balcony, Anthony's voice halted his steps as he stood up from his seat. "Wait! W-Will I see you at the wedding?" Anthony inquired, wondering if he will come or not.
There was a brief, long pause before Staghart replied back with consideration without bothering to look at him. "Silver and I are on good terms, and I've received my wedding invitation," he began, hesitating with his words. "Although one would believe you should not go as it might be awkward for them to witness the wedding of someone who was once their partner, but I've decided to attend. I want to show my support and my love for him and for you, Anthony."
Anthony was absorbed in Staghart's decision, then he smiled. "Thank you," he warmly murmured softly as he spoke. "It means a lot to both of us."
Before any more could be said, a soft, persistent knock echoed through the suite, jolting Anthony from the conversation. With a quick glance at Staghart, he hurried to the door, opening it slightly to reveal one of the castle guards, her concern etched in her expression.
"Is everything alright, Captain Draventon?" she inquired politely, her gaze flickering between Anthony and the interior of the suite. "I-I heard voices, and I wanted to ensure there wasn't any trouble."
Anthony, taken slightly off guard, masked his surprise with a faint smile. "Oh, no, no trouble at all," he reassured her. "Just... having a chat with my... dog, about the wedding today. All's well, thank you for checking on me, I appreciate it."
The guard nodded understandingly, her expression relaxing. "Of course, Captain. Apologies for the interruption. Have a good night," she offered before stepping away, leaving Anthony with a faint sense of relief.
"Goodnight," he replied back, closing the door behind him, as Anthony turned around and expecting to find Staghart still in his room. However, to his surprise, the enigmatic visitor was gone, leaving the sudden unlocked balcony doors open — a subtle indication of his sudden quiet departure without any warning or sound at all to Anthony.
"Staghart?" Anthony called out softly, his gaze shifting to the open balcony doors. But there was no response, only the whisper of the night wind brushing against the curtains.
With a heavy heart and sigh, Anthony moved to close and lock the balcony doors, he pressed his forehead against the metal of the doors.
"Thank you…. Staghart," he whispered into the silent night, a quiet gratitude for the unspoken truth and the depth of emotions shared in their brief encounter. "I will make sure I keep my promise to you."
Once the doors are fully closed and locked, Anthony retreated back to his bed, the lingering emotions of the night tugging at his heartstrings. The quietude of the room enveloped him once more, but now, it carried an unexpected conversation and promises made that had taken at this hour.
In Silver's suite, Silver lay in slumber, the soft moonlight filtering through the three windows casting a gentle glow upon his form. His chest rose and fell repeatedly as he slept. Buster curls up at the foot of the bed. The night wore on, the room remained untouched by the events that transpired elsewhere in the castle. The anticipation of the impending royal union seemed a world away in this sanctuary of repose, shielding Silver and Buster from the flurry of activities and expectations.
The moon continued its silent vigil, its ethereal glow casting elongated shadows that danced across the room, creating a play of light and shadow upon the walls. The peaceful cene was interrupted only by the occasional soft rustle of sheets as Silver shifted in his sleep or the contented sigh of Buster, his paws gently twitching in the midst of a dream. In this moment of quietude, Silver seemed to be far removed from the bustle of the waking world, cocooned in the embrace of dreams where time held no dominion. His slumber was uninterrupted, a haven of undisturbed repose as he traversed the realm of unconsciousness, serenaded by the peaceful stillness of the night.
Buster ears twitched occasionally, attuned to the faintest of sounds, the night continued to progress, the room held steadfast in its quietude, a haven untouched by the outside world. The room remained undisturbed, cradling Silver and Buster in a cocoon of undisturbed slumber, while the world outside continued its journey through the silent hours of the early morning.
But in Silver's suite, Staghart stealthily made his way into the room, bathed in the gentle moonlight; he couldn't help but be captivated by the serene sight of Silver sleeping so peacefully in his bed with his curls spread out. Buster was woken up by his sudden arrival and greeted Staghart with a wagging tail, sensing the visitor's presence without any hint of alarm.
With a soft chuckle, Staghart sat down next to him and pet Buster, appreciating the dog's calm demeanor before the dog went back to sleep. His gaze then shifted to Silver, a faint smile gracing his lips as he observed the slumbering man before him. The moment felt almost surreal, contemplating the imminent life-changing event that awaited Silver.
Staghart's heart swelled with a bittersweet joy for Silver's happiness yet tinged with a tinge of melancholy. The image of the man he once loved when he was 17 years old, now peacefully asleep, about to be married soon, stirred a whirlwind of emotions within Staghart.
Gently, Staghart leaned forward and reached out to brush a strand of Silver's hair away from his face, an intimate gesture with both tenderness and a silent farewell. He marveled at the peaceful expression on Silver's face, he reached out to smooth Silver's cheek with his left hand fingers and cherished this moment of serenity before the impending whirlwind of the royal wedding day.
Just then, Silver slowly opened his eyes, the faint sensation of something brushing his cheek lingered but there was also someone sitting on his bed, but his vision was still blurry from sleep. Blinking a few times, he reached for his glasses on the bedside table, slipping them on to clear the haziness. Yet, as his vision sharpened became clearer once more, the figure that had seemingly stood before him moments ago had vanished. His suite's window, however, stood unexpectedly open, letting in the serene moonlight.
"Huh, that's odd," Silver muttered to himself, momentarily puzzled. He shook his head, attributing the sensation to his imagination. "Must've been my curl or my mind playing tricks on me." He chuckled softly, dismissing the incident as he rubbed his eyes and made his way toward the open window as he yawned.
The sight of the radiant full moon greeted him as he was about to close it, its brilliant light casting a mesmerizing glow across the night sky. Silver smiled in its direction, feeling a peculiar connection to the celestial body. "Goodnight, beautiful moon," he murmured softly, closing the window gently before turning back towards his bed.
Unbeknownst to him, hidden beneath the window, Staghart listened intently, his heart heavy with emotions stirred by Silver's unwitting words. The moment of connection with the moon and the innocence in Silver's voice tugged at Staghart's heartstrings, leaving a bittersweet ache in its wake.
With a quiet sigh, Staghart waited until Silver had settled back into bed before silently retreating from the window. He vanished from the spot and flew into the night sky, Staghart carried with him the echoes of Silver's words in his mind and the enigmatic encounter that remained shrouded in secrecy.
Meanwhile, Silver, unaware of the unseen observer's presence, snuggled back into his bed, the moonlight casting a gentle embrace upon him. The sensation of someone brushing his cheek fleetingly in his thoughts, leaving behind a curiosity and an unspoken question of who or what might have visited him in the midst of the sleeping night.
In the comfort of his bed, Silver drifted back into the realm of dreams, the mysteries of the night intertwined with his thoughts, leaving him in a state of half-awakened wonderment as sleep embraced him once more.
Initially, I had this plan to expand this chapter into a bit longer as I had hoped for, add in more details about the characters, their relationships, and the ambiance. But, as luck would have it, the chapter took on a life of its own and settled for this shorter, albeit packed, rendition of the story. I was truly hoping to delve deeper into the backgrounds of the characters, explore their connections, and unravel the mysteries shrouding their encounters. However, sometimes stories have a mind of their own, and this snippet captures just a fraction of the broader narrative I had envisioned.
Despite my initial goal of a larger chapter, the limitations of the format guided the chapter toward a condensed rendition, focusing on key moments of vulnerability, unspoken truths, and the depth of emotions shared amongst the characters. I wanted to paint a picture of a significant event, filled with secrets, unexpected encounters, and heartfelt moments, all within the confines of this abbreviated rendition. While it might not encompass the entire envisioned world I had hoped for, I hope these glimpses into their lives and emotions still resonate with my readers, offering a taste of the intricate web of connections within this narrative.
Beside all that, in the upcoming chapter, get ready to witness the fanatics and emotional depth of Silver and Anthony's royal wedding. This upcoming chapter will delve deeper into the emotions, preparations, and the excitement leading up to this special occasion. Stay tuned for the special chapter that will bring forth where the wedding bells will ring, emotions will soar, and the beauty of their union will unfold in all its glory! A culmination of promises and the union of two worlds, as Silver and Anthony step into a new phase of their lives together as they said "I Do."
Next Chapter: Something' old, something' new. Something' big' is finally here today. Down the aisle Silver is heading because today is his and Anthony's wedding day.