Chapter 32: Queen Mab's songs
— Wanda POV —
"Okay, it's time to go back now," she told him gently but firmly, stroking Timmy's arm in an attempt to reassure him. He still seemed reluctant to leave the underground room, but he knew he had already spent more time down there than he should have. Despite knowing that only seconds had passed outside, she couldn't help but worry as she glanced anxiously at the mirror Nova had given her. Even though the image had barely moved, the knowledge that his soul was alone with Queen Mab filled her with unease.
"We can come back here again any time you want to." Nova promised, then, with a sheepish glance in her direction. "—with your godmother's permission, of course."
"Nova, I'll say it now, so there are no misunderstandings in the future. Do not take Timmy anywhere without me being there, understand?" She met his eyes trying to look stern. She had meant to sound intimidating, but a hint of anxiety had crept into her voice as her eyes searched his face for any signs of deception, which gave her the effect of being more fearful than angry.
Nova maintained eye contact with her, as if hoping to convey his honesty through his gaze. As he spoke, his voice softened, as if trying to ease the tension.
"I can't be comfortable making a promise with that exact wording—but I do promise that unless the boy's safety or well being isn't at risk, I will be sure to obtain your permission and company before taking him anywhere."
"What do you mean...?" she questioned, her voice coming out a tad too fragile for her liking.
"I mean that the well-being and safety of my god grandson take precedence over your permission." Nova held her gaze, unblinking. "As previously discussed, our world, while far safer than earth, isn't completely free from risks. There are individuals outside our Ring who abduct companions and Kinders, along with Soul-Slayers, who seize souls for experimentation or as ornamentation. Our most formidable adversaries, however, are the Ring of the Slua Si, under the leadership of Queen Nicnevin. While attacks and abduction attempts are infrequent, they are not unheard of. Fortunately, we've made several safe and impenetrable spaces to hide away our little ones in such events."
She searched his face, trying to discern any hint of hidden meaning as she contemplated his words. She wanted Timmy's wellbeing to be placed above everything else, and if he was hurt in the time it took to find her, to get her permission to bring him somewhere safe, she wouldn't forgive herself but she could not help but be afraid of how Nova could take advantage of such permission.
Perhaps he realized the weight of his words, for Nova took a deep breath and placed a reassuring hand on her arm, the roughness of the bandage on his fingers rubbing against her skin making her involuntarily shiver.
"I understand that after what happened earlier that my trust will need to be earned back, and it will take time to convince you of my sincerity. I truly do genuinely care about the boy's well-being and I want you to feel comfortable and included in any decisions concerning him. Your permission and presence are essential to me. I deeply regret that something was done without your consent and I will make sure to do all I can to make sure consent is given in the future for all things involving our dear Timmy. I understand if it takes time for you to trust me, but I hope that my actions will speak louder than my words."
His intonation and expression both sounded and looked so sincere, their authenticity shining through his eyes and reflected in the gentle rise and fall of his voice. However, intertwined with his sincerity was an underlying sense of artificiality, like the carefully crafted performance of a seasoned actor. She wanted to believe in the sincerity she sensed, but on the other hand, the rehearsed nature of his wording created a sense of unease, like a veil obscuring the truth. The dissonance between his heartfelt intonation and the scripted feeling of his words left her paralyzed, unsure of how to react to them.
"Let's take it one step at a time, and hopefully, we can rebuild that trust together." She managed a reply that may have ended up sounding as scripted as his own. He broke out into an almost tearful, which made him look so much like Cosmo that she was tempted to allow herself to let go of some of her skepticism.
'Don't be gullible!' She scolded herself inwardly.
"I'd truly like that…" Nova brushed a tear from his eye. "Perhaps tonight you will allow me to make good on my promise to take you out to observe the butterflies? I deeply regret failing to fulfill the promise I made to you to do so on your first night here, but Piper and I had a disagreement, which rendered me poor company. However, I am committed to keeping my promises and would be delighted to take both of you out this evening—to the Pavilion of Stars.
Timmy's face lit up at the invitation. "I saw that place in the video I watched! It was so cool! It was as if the world was made of stars!"
"The magnificence is heightened when witnessed in person." Nova smiled at Timmy affectionately and then looked back at her, his eyes taking on a slightly pleading look. "I assure you that this outing will not result in any distress for you, if you would kindly grant me another opportunity."
"Oh, please! Can we?" Timmy almost looked like a puppy dog as he begged. She did not want to; but if she refused, then her attempts to deceive Nova would fall to the wayside. She had to keep their relationship good, otherwise he wouldn't care about upsetting her and wouldn't hesitate to resort to all kinds of tricks and ploys to make Timmy into a Kinder. As long as she could make him think she'd join by choice, he'd stay his hand from doing anything too extreme.
Also….she glanced down at Timmy's wrist. The Stigmata was pale now, but still there. By evening, he would have undergone two more treatments, and if taking him out to see the stars and butterflies lessened the severity of it, it was worth a try. Besides, Nova probably wouldn't attempt to do anything so soon after having made her angry.
"Well, ok, but you better keep your word about not trying anything funny."
"Of course, my dear, you have my unbreakable vow! I give you my word that both of you will have an exceptional experience!" Nova looked elated, and Timmy's face brightened like a little ray of sunshine. She patted him on the head with a sigh and smiled at his face, pinching his cheek.
"I spoil you."
"Heheh."
"It's time to go now, sweetie."
"Oh, ok…." Timmy reluctantly gave in with sigh tinged with sadness, his shoulders slumping and a heaviness seemed to settle in his gaze as he took one last look around the room, his eyes tracing the corners and details as if to store them into his memory.
She realized then that he hadn't merely been trying to delay his next treatment, but had developed an unexpected affinity for the calm and tranquil setting. Honestly, it surprised her, as she had grown accustomed to his enthusiasm for thrilling adventures and exciting things that she had never fathomed the idea that he could like something of this nature so much.
Perhaps the room's gentle ambiance had allowed him to discover a different side of himself, one that appreciated the soothing allure of simplicity?
He was at the age when his interests and likes would start to change and mature, and exposer to new things could kick start the transition from childish enjoyments to more matured preferences. The soothing atmosphere, as well as the privacy, seemed to have provided her sweet godson with not only a solace from his medical treatments but also from the overwhelming world outside.
Perhaps a quiet, secluded little spot like this was exactly the kind of peaceful haven that could give him respite from the chaos, uncertainties, and stress from his life?
She pondered the possibility of recreating a similar haven for Timmy in her castle. She envisioned a cozy café-style space, complete with a crackling fireplace casting a warm glow reminiscent of the room they were leaving behind. Perhaps she could place a television screen displaying tranquil ocean scenes, since she could not produce the actual ocean view that this room provided.
Her heart swelled with the anticipation of seeing Timmy's face light up in delight when she showed him the room she'd create for him in her castle. She imagined them spending quality time together, playing board games and doing his ADHD focus exercises, all within the comforting embrace of their own little haven.
Nova also watched as Timmy gave the room one last gaze, almost looking ready to tear up. "I am sincerely glad that you derived so much enjoyment from your time at this place, dear child. I no longer consider myself an optimistic and emotional person for having diligently maintained it for such a long time in the pursuit of realizing my dream of bringing my family here. Even if this remains the only occasion in which I partake of such joy, the outcome has justified the effort."
"Nova…." It was hard not to feel some sympathy for him when he wore his longing for his family so plainly on his sleeve but if she allowed herself to feel too sorry for him, he'd end up taking advantage of her empathy and softness to steal away Timmy.
"Now, let us return to the glade. Wanda, my dear, before we proceed, allow me to enlighten you and Timmy about what we can anticipate, ensuring that you are well-prepared and not taken by surprise again."
"Please do." She crossed her arms, her glare warning him not to dare leave anything out. He laughed uncomfortably, rubbing the back of his head.
"I must emphasize, however, that I do not possess the ability to predict future events. Nevertheless, I will strive to offer the most accurate information possible, and I hope you will understand that any mistakes made are unintentional."
"We understand that Grandpa." Timmy reassured, and she did her best to keep a straight face, but she really, really disliked hearing Timmy address him like that. It made her feel as if Nova was inching that much closer to snatching him away.
"Queen Mab is highly likely to sing." Nova said this as if it was something incredibly significant.
"Sing?" She and Timmy asked in unison.
"She holds a great fondness for both singing and dancing and always sings to the children when she comes. She derives pleasure from composing poetry and playing music, thus you should anticipate a small concert. Queen Mab loves it when the children snuggle with her while she sings, so expect for her to have them gather around her. I must ask you stay back with the rest of the adults, my dear, since she very much values her one-on-one time with the children."
"She won't…do anything besides sing, right?"
"Yes, yes, my dear, only some harmless songs, dance and snuggles. It's a lovely sight, nothing to worry about. But I must caution you—Queen Mab hates being disturbed during her songs, and Gunter, if he's around, he won't spare anyone who offends the Queen. In fact, he will react preemptively to anything HE deems offensive, So please…." Nova put his two hands together, pleading, a look of distress washing over his face. "I don't want you to be harmed; Gunter is cruel, and he hates godparents. It won't take much from you to provoke him, and he is stronger than I am."
"…." She sighed, from what she had seen of Gunter this was very much the truth. She would not be surprised if a simple scowl on her face during Mab's song wouldn't be counted as enough 'offense' for him to take the 'preemptive' action of blasting her into fairy dust. "I understand…is there anything else I should know about?"
"Queen Mab's song does have the effect of lulling the children into a dreamy state, but it's nothing to feel troubled over and also keep in mind that the nectar in Timmy's body is still strong and hasn't had a chance to dilute, so do not become distressed at how he behaves once in Queen Mab's presence, it's not an indication of how her blessing is going to affect him."
This was the part she had dreaded the most. How would he react to seeing Mab in person, after the way he had behaved just seeing her image?
Timmy leaned his head on her shoulder and smiled at her gently, reminding her with a playful nudge and tiny grin that he had already conveyed his feelings to her about this matter earlier and that she was being a worry-wart. Timmy loved her most and not even an all-powerful Fey Queen and her mind controlling nectar would change that.
It was really remarkable how much his emotions came through in his eyes, the curve of his lips, the crease of his brow, and the little tilt of his head. All these things communicated what he was thinking and feeling with far more clarity than words ever could. It reminded her of the bond she had with Cosmo, how with just a glance, they knew what the other was thinking or feeling.
But lately, she and Cosmo understood each other less and less, even when using words…
— Poof POV —
He pouted, laying down on the bed in the room his mom had made for Timmy back at their castle. He had thought he'd be spending this weekend playing with his brother and having a great time together with his entire family inside the castle. There were so many rooms and places in here that he had wanted to explore with Timmy, but it really did not seem like Timmy or his mom was going to be back soon and he was really starting to worry that maybe they wouldn't even be back in the time for the fairy festival.
His grandmother had picked up two pamphlets of the events and shows that would be at the festival and had suggested he circle the ones he was most interested in attending. The other pamphlet was for Timmy. Apparently there were some games and events that god kids could sign up for, but…
Would Timmy be there….? He really hoped he would. He'd send the pamphlet to Timmy along with the present he had picked up for him at the fairy-mall and hope that things worked out better the weekend coming up than they had for this weekend.
The present he had got for Timmy had been a jacket; he had thought to get him a toy, but his grandmother insisted that this jacket would be far better.
'I hear your god brother has been being bullied badly lately; this jacket can absorb 70% of the impact from any physical harm, plus the pockets have magic woven in them that allows for items to be completely hidden until they are requested by name, so his lunch money and medication won't be able to be stolen from him.' His grandmother's reasoning had been sound, but it had disturbed him too.
He did not see it happen for himself because whilst Timmy was at school; he was attending Spellemetary school, but he knew Timmy was being picked on a lot. His brother and mother tried to hide things from him so he wouldn't worry, but he wasn't blind. He could tell when his brother had been bullied—he'd look so downcast and there'd be injuries…ripped clothes…
However, the news that his brother was being beaten up and having things stolen from him broke his heart. He couldn't understand why people would be so cruel to someone like Timmy. Despite his occasional selfishness and irresponsibility, he knew Timmy had a kind and fun-loving nature. He cared deeply for those who cared about him and occasionally even extended his kindness to those who didn't.
Timmy hated to see people sad or suffering…and yet people seemed to enjoy making him sad and suffer.
….Vicky had even hurt his poor brother so badly that he now had to go away for treatment…
It wasn't fair at all. With another sigh, he picked up the pamphlet again, looking over the events. He would have wanted to go through it with Timmy and his parents but…Timmy and his mom were in Fey world, and his grandmother had said she had some things to speak with his dad about and had left him in his room to look through the pamphlet alone.
He had gone into Timmy's guest room to try to not feel so lonely, trying to at least feel his brother's presence near him. He poofed up a Timmy-doll to sit next to him and laid the pamphlet open, reading over the shows, concerts, game shows, activities…
The big TBT, Target blasting tournament, hosted by his grandfather 'Big Daddy'. It was the most advertised event and the one with the biggest prizes. Apparently Juandissimo won every year, but his dad had been claiming that this year he was going to win instead and had been practicing like crazy for it. But he hadn't seen his dad practice at all since he had returned from his week-long visit with his grandfather.
He must have felt way too bad about what happened to Timmy to want to practice. His dad was such a terrible shot, almost as bad, or even worse than Binky! He'd end up in last place and get embarrassed if he did not start practicing again….
….Or maybe his dad wasn't even going to go to the festival anymore….after all, he hadn't even felt comfortable going to the mall because he felt everyone would be judging him and blaming him for not preventing Timmy's accident.
….This wasn't fair; all he wanted was a good, fun time with his entire family together, but Timmy was hurt, his father was sad and his mom was busy caring for Timmy.
He threw the pamphlet aside and curled up with the Timmy doll, feeling lonely. If he ended up having to go to the fairy festival without them, then he'd rather not go at all.
— Timmy's Pov —
"Ooh, welcome back! I trust Nova has explained everything to you, yes? No need to thank me for my blessing. The dear child deserved it for allowing me to see such a rare sight." Queen Mab greeted them in a perky voice the moment they reappeared in the glade and then locked eyes with him, a dizzying feeling overtaking him. "Your soul it is such a cute little baby. It's the most precious soul I've ever laid my eyes on. It's such a Sweet Heart." She cooed over his soul in the cage that was nestled in her lap. His soul seemed to stare up at her stupefied and he was pretty sure he was making the same expression right now.
"I've always wondered what a new soul looked like; it's prettier then I imagined, ah, and you too—such a beautiful eye color, your mind-soul must also be quite lovely."
As Queen Mab continued to shower him with compliments, a wave of warmth coursed through his veins, causing his cheeks to flush a rosy hue. He could almost feel the nectar flowing making it's way into his bloodstream...
"T-thank you…." he stammered, his mouth felt dry; he felt even more shy right now than he did when tying to speak to Trixie. It felt as though invisible tendrils of affection were wrapping around his body, pulling him closer towards her ethereal presence.
The surrounding glade seemed to transform into a hazy backdrop, fading into a blur of green and various bright colors. The sound of the waterfall in the distance, once a constant rumble, seemed to become nothing more than the dripping of a tap. Even the flowers surrounding him seemed unable to compete with the alluring scent of the Fey Queen's delicate perfume.
His peripheral vision blurred, leaving only Queen Mab in sharp focus. Every contour of her face, every delicate feature, became magnified in his perception. Her enchanting smile seemed to glow with an otherworldly radiance, captivating his gaze like a mesmerizing flame. His eyes could not help but fall to her lips, his mind replaying the sensation of the surprise kiss; soft, warm….and the taste of her nectar, which persistently clung to his tongue revived in his memory as the sweetest thing he had ever tasted and knew that if she were to offer him more that he'd be unable to resist it, even knowing what it had done to him.
With each passing moment he was in her presence, the rest of the world faded further away.
The touch of Wanda's hand wrapped around his own, once a grounding force, now felt distant and insignificant compared to the intoxicating allure of Queen Mab's presence. It was as if her presence was consuming all five of his senses, eroding them until all he could focus on was her.
His mind, once clear and rational, became clouded by a haze of adoration and desire. He knew these thoughts and feelings were not his own and yet thoughts of resistance and self-awareness struggled to reach the surface of his mind, suppressed by the overwhelming comfort and tenderness radiating from Queen Mab's presence. It was as if every fiber of his mind, body, and soul was urging him to give in and allow himself to be enveloped by her overwhelming love. He wanted to go to her side and remain there forever and ever.
'No…this isn't me. These are not my thoughts! The mother I love most….the one who is always there for me…is Wanda…!' Deep within himself, his inner voice was able to break through the haziness of his mind, desperately trying to remind him of his own identity and autonomy and most of all, his true feelings. He fought as hard as he could against the clouding fog of emotions, urging himself to resist the temptation to succumb entirely to Queen Mab's influence. Yet, the allure was undeniable, and the struggle to maintain control grew more difficult with each passing moment.
"Oh, you really are such an adorable little darling!" Queen Mab giggled, as if aware of his internal struggle. She beckoned to him to come closer and, almost like a magnetic pull impossible to resist, he found himself stepping towards her. The closer he got, the deeper his enthrallment grew; He did not even notice his hand slipping out of Wanda's as he entered the area of night that surrounded the Queen.
"That's it, come lay your head on my lap, little one." Mab invited, using her hand to guide him into a laying position; at this point, he might as well of been rendered senseless. "Yes…I see my nectar is working its way through you quite nicely…"
Her slender fingers began to stroke themselves through his hair in a soothing gesture that made him feel peaceful, like he was floating…as if half his consciousness had been transported into a dream. The cage where his heart-soul resided was nestled in her lap, next to his head and his soul, as transfixed as he was by the Fey Queen sat down as close it could get to the bars to be as near him as possible. With both his eyes and the eyes of his soul gazing upward at her, Mab seemed to glow with a nearly divine radiance…
"Timmy, with eyes of astral blue, Gentle soul, pure and true, a heart yearning for love, your godmother's pride. In your embrace, Mab's love resides. Sweet-Heart, a butterfly so small, Innocence wrapped in tender thrall, Soul of Timmy, pure and bright, In your light, Mab finds delight. Gather close, dear children mine, In this glade, under star-shine, For in your hearts, the magic swells, In your laughter, Mab's enchantment dwells." Queen Mab sang to him sweetly in his ear. Whatever was left of his free will felt as if it evaporated. Even though he remained aware that it was her nectar creating these feelings in him, the desire to worship her and the devotion that overcame him was so pure and all consuming that the very idea of trying to resist it felt inherently 'wrong.'
He had never been religious. He had never given much thought about god, or church or anything like that. AJ's parents always said grace before every meal and Chester went to church every Sunday, but his parents had never raised him with any religious teachings. Maybe because they had never considered religion important, he had never given it any hard thought, so he had zero confliction about fully accepting these new feelings he had towards Queen Mab. However, he had the feeling that even if he had been devotedly religious that she would have had no problem in overpowering and overwriting his previous beliefs.
If his mind was working properly, he would have found this both wrong and terrifying but, influenced by her power as his was, he could only focus on how wonderfully comforting and reassuring her presence was and how it felt only natural that she ought to be worshipped.
— Gunter Von Strangle's POV—
He stepped into Ban Fior Glade, an area so excessively idyllic and saccharine that it agitated him merely to exist within its confines. Numerous Rings under Queen Mab's dominion embraced this 'storybook' aesthetic, and Bailena Leanbhanna Draiochta was among the most egregious in its cloying sweetness—its entire Ring fashioned after a kindergarten ambiance, its entire focus dedicated to those annoying Kinders.
The famed white deer of the glade scattered at his approach, intuitively recognizing him as someone dangerous. In battle, he had been akin to a majestic lion, fiercely defending his Queen; broadening her dominion, her sway, and shielding her from any peril.
Now, devoid of battles to fight and severed from Earth, he found himself demoted from guardian to mere chaperone as his Queen whiled away her infinite hours on leisurely pursuits, hobbies, and interests.
Her predilection for these obnoxious Kinders was easily her most vexing fascination.
He continued walking until she came into view; unsurprised to find her encircled by a throng of Kinders vying for proximity and attention, while the pitiable godchild lay with his head in the Queen's lap, resembling a self-satisfied, spoiled kitten.
His jaw tightened in revulsion at Queen Mab's indulgence of that insipid boy. It was because of that child that he had faced censure from his Queen.
What did it matter that he had nearly struck the insignificant creature in his assault on his even less consequential son? That godchild really had no place here; even if he became an Angel or a Kinder. That child was in such an unnatural condition from his godfather's negligent stupidity that made it him unsuitable to receive treatment within his Queen's territory, and yet he was being treated like a VIP rather than the soulless abomination he had become.
Why was Queen Mab permitting this course of action? That child should be sent to a different doctor outside of her territory, considering his condition!
Allowing Piper to proceed with his treatment contradicted the very essence of Queen Mab's core principles! It could tarnish her standing with allied Circles. She risked being tainted by accusations of allowing Soul-Tampering to take place within one of her Rings!
He had battled for her influence and her repute, and now she seemed willing to jeopardize it all for one pampered, faint-hearted godchild. In truth, when he had launched his earlier attack, it had been with the intention of striking the child—Jorgen's presence beside him had just been convenient camouflage.
His gaze settled on Nova, who, noticing him, protectively positioned himself in front of the bothersome fairy godmother. The child, Ariafern, clung tightly to the woman as well, as though to guarantee he wouldn't initiate an attack. However, Queen Mab didn't value Fey children as much as human ones, rendering the gesture futile. Should the fairy godmother dare to offend or insult the queen, he was determined to turn her into dust—if only to witness Jorgen's reaction. Furthermore, without her, the boy would be unable to complete the magic-filter-cycle...at least not in a way that would allow him to become a Angel.
The Heart-Soul imprisoned within the cage also became aware of him, undoubtedly sensing his magic, unlike its human counterpart, who remained blissfully ignorant of his presence while luxuriating in Mab's warmth. The soul emitted a sequence of melodious tones—soul-speech—that he couldn't comprehend. Nonetheless, Queen Mab responded with nods and soothing hums understanding every word spoken.
"Sweet-Heart, don't worry, I'm here to keep all of you safe." She reassured the soul and then addressed him with a dismissive wave of her hand, her back turned to him. "Gunter, I'm not finished here yet. I instructed you to wait elsewhere until I was done, did I not?" she exclaimed with a sigh, followed by a tender coo as she extended a finger through the cage bars to gently caress the diminutive soul with the tip of her pinkie finger. "Your presence is upsetting Sweet-Heart."
"I offer my apologies," he retorted, glaring at the soul which bore an almost self-satisfied expression as it glared back at him from within its cage. Meanwhile, its human host, now aware of his presence, swiveled his head towards him with an expression reminiscent of a trapped rabbit. The other Kinders also cast nervous glances his way, inching closer to Queen Mab for safety—all of them frail, coddled, and useless creatures.
"I presumed you would have concluded your affairs by this time," he stated, bowing slightly in apology for the intrusion, despite his genuine belief that she was squandering her time.
"I wager you're someone who would visit the seven wonders of the world and grow weary of them within seven minutes," Queen Mab quipped without glancing back at him. He was familiar enough with her mannerisms to discern from her tone that she was probably rolling those captivating limpid blue eyes of hers at him.
"If you are referring to the seven wonders of the human world, they wouldn't hold my interest for seven seconds." He corrected.
"You are such a philistine," she complained, as she had done several times before. It was a valid complaint; but the arts did not win wars, and he would not allow frivolous distractions to cloud his combat-ready mind. Queen Mab however had him to protect her, so she was free to allow herself to focus on arts and other useless things.
"I need more than just this brief time to admire as rare a sight as a brand new soul! I could spend years marveling at its beauty!" She gushed, her voice glowing. He wished he could see her face, she must have been making a beautiful expression.
If she had just allowed the boy to die without replacing his soul; then she could have kept that soul in her company forever. A newborn baby without a mother...a baby that would never grow, wouldn't that be the ultimate source of happiness she had sought for centuries?
His Queen was far too kind and compassionate. She was willing to sacrifice her chance at claiming something she cherished and loved for the welfare of a child who, in his opinion, was beyond saving.
"Oh, there, there... shh, he won't say anything to upset you this time, my precious angel..." She comforted the human boy, kissing his cheek. He could tell by the boy's demeanor that he had already been blessed by her, and he sighed inwardly.
He should have been here to prevent her from making such a reckless decision. The child's survival was not assured; his condition was too precarious. Worse still, even if he did survive, there was no certainty about what he would become — especially under the unpredictable care of Candy Sweet.
...Queen Mab gave her blessings far too freely despite the great price she paid for each one she gave out.
"Gunter, I know you despise Jorgen, but must you take it out on these innocent godchildren?" She finally looked at him, her lips forming a pout. "The poor boy is shaking with fear! I can't believe you would go to such lengths! You even made his Stigmata bleed! Sweet-Heart is furious with you for harming his counterpart; apologize."
With a dry expression, he regarded the soul, which stuck its tongue out at him. However, he had to admit that if its human counterpart possessed the same boldness, he might have felt less repulsion towards him. He despised those who remained weak or allowed themselves to become weak. He had been forced to listen to several stories about Timmy Turner due to how much the Queen enjoyed hearing them, but this boy had proved a pure disappointment to meet in person—he was nothing like the stories.
"I apologize — that you are bound to such a feeble and flawed vessel, one that cannot bear the weight of simple truths," he addressed the soul. He noticed the godmother's eyes ignite with fury, and as she opened her mouth to retort, Nova quickly covered it with his hand, whispering pleas to her to stay quiet and not give into her temper.
A single insult would have sufficed as a pretext for him to annihilate her. Jorgen and his godparents, who indulged in the frailties of pitiable children instead of fostering their innate strength for survival, were repugnant.
Engeltrud, Jorgen's mother, had been physically frail, but refused to succumb to her weaknesses. She fought valiantly in every aspect of her life and, even when she could no longer fight, her pride did not falter. Even reduced to a mere tree, she remained steadfast, dignified, and defiant.
She had discovered her fortitude and inner strength by overcoming adversity without the need for coddling or pampering; she had survived a world intent on her destruction through sheer willpower and spirit despite a fragile body. Engeltrud's resilience had made her a suitable partner to perpetuate his lineage.
Jorgen, who was oblivious to the true essence of strength, was not only a disgrace to the Von Strangle bloodline but also to his mothers.
"Oooh!" Queen Mab, now frustrated, made rapid shooing gestures with her hand. "You are such a bogeyman! Go away! You're frightening the children."
"How much longer will you be, my Queen?" he inquired, not wishing to return too soon and disturb her a second time or linger too long, thereby risking making her wait.
"I don't know!" She furrowed her brows in annoyance. "I've only had time to sing one song, so I need a while longer, at least. Stay close but out of sight, will you? I'll signal you when I'm ready to depart, okay?"
"Yes, my Queen," he complied and stepped back. The influence of the children she spent so much time around sometimes made her act somewhat childishly, but despite her words and demeanor, he knew she valued his protection and was fully aware that she could not manage without him. That's why he could openly scorn those children she cherished so much without fear of repercussions.
Why did he despise them so intensely? There were many reasons, but the most significant was that they caused Queen Mab pain.
Each child had received her blessing; and with each of their inevitable deaths, she was destined to endure suffering.
Queen Mab experienced physical, mental, and emotional agony whenever someone blessed by her passed away.
Their deaths were etched into her heart and psyche; she relived the moment of their demises in her dreams nightly, feeling their last thoughts, emotions, and even their anguish as if they were her own.
Each person blessed, an invisible, but eternal scar upon her body.
Thousands of deaths to experience night after night for eternity.
That was the toll she paid for their adoration.
Yet, that wasn't the most profound agony these children inflicted upon her. No, the most severe torment she suffered due to these children was the realization that she could never truly be their mother, no matter how earnestly she endeavored to fill that role for them.
They would never love her as much as she loved them.
To them, another woman would always bear the name "Mom."
— Wanda's POV—
"Oh, well, now that, that scary lion has crawled back into his den, let's try to shake off our shivers with a little dance and song!" Queen Mab laughed as Gunter's figure departed but the shadow he had cast lingered on in the atmosphere, like a bad smell. She shuddered. She could still feel him looming nearby, like a predator hunting its prey from a distance.
Timmy had looked so scared that it had made her heart ache not to go to his side; but Nova had warned her that Gunter was looking for an excuse, any excuse, in order to take his frustration out on an 'underling' of his son.
"Yay, you're going to sing to us!?" Rachel clapped her hands together happily.
"Queen Mab always sings us the most lovely songs!" Lilybeth's expression glowed. "Your still new, so you don't know, but she sings to us whenever she comes by for a visit!"
"A tea-party, meeting Timmy and having Queen Mab visit all in one day! This has been the best day ever!" Kieran's tail was wagging a mile a minute. All the children were having similar, excited reactions.
"Elowynsong, Dewdrop, you two are the most talented musicians here. Would you play us some music?" Queen Mab requested, but it was obvious that she would not have taken a no for an answer. The two Fey women conjured a harp and a flute respectively and stepped closer to the ring of night without entering it.
She took a glance at Ariafern, sitting beside her. She was a child and yet she was sitting away from Mab. Could be that only human children were welcomed to get close to her? Queen Mab did not seem like she had any inclination of inviting Ariafern into the circle, nor did she even seem to acknowledge that she was outside of it.
Ariafern, feeling her eyes on her, glanced in her direction and then looked down at a flower, plucking at its petals. She made no signs of speaking, so she looked away from her, awkwardly.
"I'm sorry Gunter showed up and was such a brute." Nova apologized to her, but she was more worried about what was taking place right now and with what had already happened.
Her heart felt heavy, burdened with the weight of disappointment. She could still feel the ghostly warmth of Timmy's hand slipping away from hers. He had reassured her with such conviction in the underground café and yet it had taken only mere moments of seeing Queen Mab for him to fall sway to her influence.
She had known all along that Timmy was vulnerable to the enchantment of the Fey, but witnessing it firsthand was a painful reminder of his innocence and susceptibility.
The sight of Timmy, nestled comfortably in Mab's lap, with such a peaceful and happy expression on his face as she sang to him, had been one of the most painful things she had ever watched and that his Heart-Soul had been equally mesmerized was adding insult to injury.
Despite her pain, she couldn't bring herself to blame Timmy. He had fought against the pull of Mab's influence, his struggle clear in his determined eyes and the way his small fingers had clenched her hand tightly before being lured away by a pull he could not resist. He had given it his all even once he was within Mab's grasp, but in the end, the magic of the Fey had proven too powerful for a mere human child to resist.
She had watched helplessly as his willpower to resist had evaporated, unable to go to his side to offer him the strength to resist. Long before Gunter had arrived, his presence had been sensed and Nova had warned her of the danger she'd be putting herself and Timmy in if she were to do anything to offend the Queen.
She found solace in the knowledge that Timmy had tried his best to resist. Despite the outcome, his valiant efforts were a testament to his character and his love for her. He had not lied when he had assured her that within his heart she was his real mother, no matter how someone else's enchantment may influence his feelings.
Timmy now sat among the other children, his face alight with the same devotion that boarded of fanaticism, as theirs while they eagerly anticipated Mab's song. Each child's expression was wide-eyed, filled with awe and adoration, strikingly similar to the uniform faces on mass-produced dolls.
...If Mab equated this with a child's love, then she was a profoundly sad woman who had misunderstood what it meant to be a mother.
"In the glen where moonlight weaves its silver thread, Amidst the whispers of the ancient trees, I, Fey Queen Mab, with loving arms widely spread, sing to dear children in the gentle breeze." Queen Mab sang, while Elowynsong and Dewdrop played a harp and flute in harmony with her vocals.
Queen Mab had a beautiful singing voice that was captivating, but luckily her fury at the woman for what she had done to Timmy prevented her from being enthralled by it. She wasn't the only one. Bliss also seemed to tune out the song and Ariafern plucked at another flower, this time temperamentally.
"Stop that, Fernie." Alderwind cast his daughter a disapproving look as he gave her hand a light slap.
Queen Mab ignored this entirely, not seeming like she cared for anyone outside of the night-time circle in which she had gathered the children. She gestured for Rachel to come to her and took the girl in her arms, rocking her lovingly as she sang to her in a tune that belonged on a child's nursery show. "Rachel, dearest lambkin of the glen, in softest fleece, your visage sweetly framed, A gentle shepherd's joy in every glance. Your laughter, like the meadow's chorus named, In innocence, you twirl in nature's dance."
Rachel was all smiles as she was given a kiss on the cheek and sent to sit back in the circle of children whilst Kieran was beckoned next and he scrambled over to her like an excited puppy, bashfully being cuddled in her arms as Mab giggled, playfully tugging on his wagging tail. "Kieran, the cute pup with boundless glee, bound by fur, a heart that beats so fast, Your wagging tail, a beacon of delight. In playful bounds, through dreams and shadows cast, You're the sun that banishes the darkest night." Queen Mab gave the boy a cuddle and playfully ruffled his hair before having him return to the circle and called on the next child; Kasumi, taking the girl by the hands and dancing around with her.
"Kasumi, the mist, forever free; a wisp of cloud, adventurous and bold, The spirit of the breeze within your veins. In every step, a tale of tales untold, A melody of laughter when it rains."
As Mab moved around the circle, calling each child over to her for her song, Wanda felt her stomach tighten. She was choosing children at random, and at any moment she might call on Timmy. The uncertainty of what Mab intended to do this time only heightened her fears, especially considering what had happened earlier. Nova noticed her anxiety and squeezed her hand, trying to reassure her. However, given the events that had transpired before, his attempt at reassurance only seemed to worsen her fears.
"Walter, the toadstool, a gent so kind. In mossy coats and manners finely spun, A gentleman of yesteryear's embrace. In echoes of the forest, you're the one. Politeness blooms in every quiet grace." Queen Mab's touch to the boy had far more gentleness than with the other children; but it did not seem to be born out of a greater affection…it was more like the difference was that of handling plastic and glass. Walter was given a long, long hug before being sent to sit back down. She wondered if this little boy might be unwell…?
"Lilybeth, the doll in silken guise; a porcelain vision, delicate and fair, With ribbons twined in locks of golden hue. In dainty steps, with flowers in your hair, You dance through dreams, a fairy tale come true." Meanwhile, Queen Mab took the girl who looked like actual glass into her arms and began energetically rocking her in a way that almost verged on playful rough housing. Lilybeth squealed with delight, clapping her tiny hands together. Wanda did not miss the brief scowl that crossed over Ariafern's face, nor did she miss the girl's father Alderwind grab his daughter's hand before she could tear apart another flower, whilst Elowynsong gave her daughter and warning look as she continued to pluck at the harp.
Queen Mab sent Lilybeth, now dizzy, to sit back down and called over Marina, who tried to show an air of maturity despite being as eager as all the other children to go to the Queen's side. Mab lovingly stroked the flowers growing on top of the girl's head, admiring her as if she were a bouquet. "Marina, the caring bloom. Petals unfurl in hues of vibrant cheer, A guardian spirit in the twilight's glow. With sturdy stems, your laughter near, Nurturing the seeds that life may sow."
She was unable to prevent herself from shaking in nervousness and dread as she realized that all of the children had been sang to and it was now Timmy's turn. She watched anxiously as Mab took him by both hands and gracefully danced around the circle with movements Timmy could barely follow. Queen Mab's eyes glistened with amused affection at Timmy's unskilled attempts to follow the dance steps. Even she couldn't help but think how much he looked like a baby deer just learning to walk as he clumsily tried to mimic the movements he was being shown.
"Azure eyes reflecting stars above, A soul that yearns for love's eternal touch. In tender moments, kindness takes its flight, A celestial beacon, caring overmuch." Mab sang as she wrapped an arm around Timmy and took him into a playful dip whilst reaching out her other arm to grasp the cage with the little heart-soul who had also been trying to mimic the dance steps from inside the cage—and doing a much better job of it than Timmy had. "A fluttering, newborn essence, light as air, The soul of Timmy in this winged form. In innocence, a bond beyond compare, A love that weathers life's relentless storm."
She mulled over the lyrics that Mab had sang; yearning for love's eternal touch—was that referring to how he had frozen time for fifty years? What did she mean, celestial beacon, caring overmuch? Love that weathered life's storm?
She had never been much of a poet, so deciphering the meaning was probably beyond her skill levels. Perhaps Nova could tell her what the Queen had meant by her song? She'd be sure to ask him once she was given the chance to, but for now, she got the feeling that Mab would become offended if she interrupted her to questioned the meaning of her song and, with Gunter still somewhere nearby, that was best avoided.
"Oh now children, gather around and listen to me play music this time, closer, closer now, feel free to cuddle as close to me as you like." Queen Mab invited as she summoned a lyre into her hands, intent on singing yet another song to the children. Dewdrop and Elowynsong both changed the tune of the song they were playing without having to be told which song it was the Queen wanted. Their playing became softer, more like background accompaniment, both women looking almost stressed not to have either of their instruments overpower Mab's playing.
"In shadows deep, where dreams and moonlight meet, Fey Queen Mab's song weaves threads of pure delight. Each child embraced in nature's heartbeat, A lullaby that dances through the night. In the glade where moonbeams dance, Underneath the starry expanse, Gather 'round, dear children fair, In the Fey Queen Mab's tender care."
The children moved close to her, enthralled by the song and it pained her with all her heart to see that Timmy was just as captivated as the rest of them and had managed to get so close that the Queen had tucked him under her arm and had his head laid against her bosom as she played her music that whilst breathtakingly beautiful, still could not hope to match her voice.
"Rachel, with fleece as soft as dawn, Your laughter, a sweet summer's song, Cheerful spirit, love's gentle art, Enchants the depths of Mab's fond heart. Kieran, with eyes so bright and wide, Boundless joy, a playful tide, Puppy-like, your spirit free, In your joy, Mab finds her glee. Kasumi, with misty wanderlust, Adventurous soul, in nature's trust, within the waters, you freely roam, In your wild heart, Mab finds home." The three children whom she had been sung about seemed to drift off into a state of bliss so great that it seemed as if they were dreaming whilst still awake. It was so unnatural that, rather than looking peaceful, it almost looked as if they had been drugged.
"Walter, with manners of old, Like mushrooms, humble yet bold, Politeness in every word you share, In your grace, Mab finds rare. Lilybeth, a living doll of grace, Spoiled sweetness in every trace, Girlish charm, a blossomed rose, In your innocence, Mab's love flows. Marina, like a flower in bloom, Guiding light through evening gloom, full of loving care, steadfast and true, In your strength, Mab finds virtue."
These three children now bore the same dreamy gazes as the others, lulled into some sweet temporary oblivion by her song. A protest almost came to her lips as she saw that Timmy was next to be sung to, but Nova gave her arm a gentle, but warning squeeze, his voice flowing into her head.
'Don't worry—this song is one that lulls them into a temporary daydream, letting them experience their ideal world for a short time. I'm sure Timmy's will be all about his time with his beloved godparents and god brother.'
'….What's the purpose of giving them these day dreams?' She asked back within her mind.
'Why, to be kind, of course.'
Nova's tone implied that this was what he honestly believed; but she was certain it was something far more manipulative. After all, what being worth worshipping did not have a 'heaven' to offer as a reward for its fateful worshipers?
"In the heart of faery realms, where moonlight whispers secrets sweet, Queen Mab, with tender grace, her lyre entwined with dreams, takes seat. With silken threads of silver song, she weaves a tale of Timmy's fate, A melody of innocence, a soul's rebirth, by destiny ornate.
Oh, Timmy, once a sprite so bright, in mischief danced and laughter's glee, Yet time and sorrow's heavy weight, have cloaked your spirit, dimmed its glee. A tender bud, now frail and pale, in shadows of neglect's cruel night, But hark, dear Timmy, soul anew, in the faery's touch, shall find its light."
'Don't sing these words so casually, you don't know my boy at all!' She clenched her teeth. What right did she have? Mab did not even know who Timmy was as a person. She did not know the things he was going through or had endured, and yet she sang as if she had been present for all of it. 'You are just a stranger who heard some stories. You know nothing about him..'
"Sweet-Heart, aflutter on delicate wings, a newborn's innocence pure. A new soul born, a rare delight. In this symphony, love shall endure. Timmy, in this second dance of life, your steps are guided by the fey, In moonlit glades and starry skies, your heart, once more, shall find its way.
Once mischievous, now meek and mild, a tragic tale in life's cruel guise, Yet Queen Mab, with compassion's hand, unravels threads of sorrow's ties. Timmy, sweet, in this sacred dance, your frail form cradled in twilight's grace, The Fey, with whispers soft and sweet, weave healing spells, your pain to erase."
'He does not need Fey to heal him or guide him; he has me, his mother, and that is all he needs.' She thought, frustrated by Mab's claims to understand his pain and her promises to make them go away. 'I can get him through this. I'm enough to help him. He does not need your kind of help—he has his fairy family; he has me.'
"Oh, the meadow's lullaby, a serenade for Timmy's soul, A tale of rebirth, a balm for wounds, a symphony of the heart made whole. In the moonlit glen, where shadows flee, and starlight paints the sky above, Queen Mab, with love profound, sings for Timmy, the child born to love.
Sweet-Heart, newborn butterfly, in innocence, your wings unfold, A soul entwined with Timmy's heart, in this dance of life, forever told. So let the melody of faery's harp, in healing notes, the night adorn, For Timmy, sweet and tragically adorned, a new beginning, newly born."
She watched as Timmy fell into the same dreamy state as the other children; but his Heart-soul remained lucid, perhaps unable to be lulled into a magical daydream due to a human soul's natural aversion to magic; and in that, she felt a small victory because the lullabies she had sung to the soul, full of a mother's love rather then mind-controlling magic, had caused it to sleep soundly.
"Mmm-mmm…" Mab hummed thoughtfully as the soul remained awake. "I know souls sleep. Why won't you, Sweet-Heart? Shall I sing a softer lullaby for you?"
"Her singing is lovely, isn't it?" Nova spoke to her aloud now, as Mab played with the soul, cooing to it and asking what lullabies it enjoyed, whilst being surrounded by the vacant, dreamy gazes of the children lost to day dreams by the magic of her voice.
"…Yes, it sounded beautiful." She answered, hesitantly, but if she were to answer honestly—Queen Mab's singing was beautiful only on the surface; the emotion behind them was as empty and as fabricated as the love she had forced onto these children.