Goblin Writes

It's always an adventure when I'm traveling with Link and Zelda in Hyrule. I'd been with them ever since I was dragged through that portal Gannon opened while trying to watch the 80's cartoon. He was planning on using me to get into the tower the triforce is kept in and steal it so he was keeping me in his dungeon until I agreed or he made a mind control spell. But turns out the goddesses didn't like that plan and for some reason they decided the best ability for me to have is to make hella strong, magical barriers. I got to test it out when Gannon showed up seconds after din the literal goddess of fire left post explanation, thanks to Link and Zelda beginning to storm the castle. Luckily I was able to get a barrier up long enough to escape from him, and was quickly rescued by the aforementioned heroic duo.

Speaking of whom, they were doing their usual back and forth, with Link acting like a dork and Zelda sniping at him while I tried to stay out of it as we continue our journey back to the castle, per a request from the king. Apparently, the hero and princess attending a ball is more important than ensuring the safety of his subjects. I had tried to help Link woo Zelda when I'd first gotten here, and he had gotten a lot better since then, but that only got me on the princess's bad side. She was so determined to get with some prince or another despite how badly those men behaved and the fact that Link was right there and obnoxiously over the moon for her. Thankfully despite her dislike for Link, she did trust my judgement as it was me who had saved us from more than one bad situation based on gut instinct and Link's murmurs of discomfort toward those people and places, but I'm not telling her that. Besides, after the first guy had blatantly been eye fucking me and any other vaguely feminine person in sight right in front of her, Zelda let me vibe check them and so far, all of them have failed. Honestly, the only semi decent guy here seemed to be Link, much to the princess's despair when I mentioned it to her.

Before I knew it wow I was really zoned out, we were at the castle and Zelda was storming off telling Link something along the lines of how she'd make something happen, probably how she'd get him to pay attention to the triforce alone. I glanced over and watched as he waited for her to slam the door before deflating. I gingerly moved closer and opened my arms in a silent offer for a hug. He glanced around before grabbing my hand, basically dragging me to a secluded spot in the garden, and finally slumping into my arms with a deep inhale before sighing dramatically. I carded my fingers through his hair while he murmured something about Zelda and her ultimatums.

"She's blind and stubborn. You aren't nearly as bad as she makes you out to be. Hopefully, she sees how good you can be. Hell, you already are better than any of the Schmucks that she insists on spending her time with." I said as I rubbed his back. I kept holding him until I remembered why we had to return early. I gave him a good squeeze before I let go, mentioning wanting to bathe before the ball the king was hosting as I headed inside. Plus I knew Zelda would be pissed if she has to wait too long, especially when she finds out Link is the reason she has to wait at all. Plus she will demand details. Unfortunately, I can't tell if she demands the details because she's trying to be a good friend or if she's doing it because she's jealous. Is it terrible of me to hope that it's because she's jealous?

*Pov Change; Link*

I watched as (Y/n) left and felt my face get hot, she somehow hadn't heard Zelda demanding that I ask (Y/n) out and her vowing to make it happen before she stormed off, and I am so grateful for that. I could still feel my face burning from what Zelda had said. But what (Y/n) said reminded me that she thought that I was still flirting with the princess and that was frustrating. Somehow (Y/n) had never caught me staring at her or noticed that I had not-so-jokingly asked her for a kiss instead of Zelda. Though, all the free hugs that she offered are pretty nice. Plus the fact that she offered them before I could even ask made the whole thing even better.

Though, her mention of bathing reminded me that the king would probably be pretty mad if I showed up to his party all sweaty and caked in dirt. So, I trudged inside and made my way to the main castle baths since I know that both of the private ones in the tower would be in use by the girls. While cleaning myself, I saw the latest prince who had come to flirt with Zelda was lurking in the baths and showing more interest in the woman's side than would be liked by anyone with decency. On the way to my room, to get changed into something nicer to avoid getting scolded by Zelda, I let a passing maid Ally I think know about the royal pervert and asked that she inform the other gals just in case he tried anything.

Once I was clean, I went up to my room and dressed in the fancy outfit that the princess herself had personally handed over before running off to do some last minute party prep. Honestly, I don't even know what this party is for but I guess it's pretty important if she felt like she had to make sure I was dressed properly and she was right to assume I wouldn't have, if the amount of embroidery and accessories she included were anything to go off of. It took a couple of minutes and a lot of adjustments but I was finally able to look in the mirror and still recognize myself.

Before I got too far from my room, I saw the latest prince in Zeldas line up was trying to get into the stairway leading to (Y/n)'s room. Thankfully she always locks every door and insisted on adding extras. Plus she added on a temporary barrier whenever the princess has company after one of the first ones Zelda had been playing host to, got drunk and got inside (Y/n)'s room shortly after she was brought to the castle. She ended up being moved to the tower after accidentally making such a powerful barrier that the room was unable to be entered by anyone for a while and even though she swears that she removed it, guys still have trouble entering and those who do feel like they are being physically pushed toward the nearest exit. "Can I help you?" I figured I'd give him a chance to explain himself, after all he might be trying to get to Zelda's room, which was on the other side of the landing, although the Stark difference in decorations made it pretty obvious whose was whose. However, the way he jumped while snapping his head to look at me left me certain that he was at (Y/n)'s door on purpose. He tried to stutter out some excuse or another but I wasn't buying it. I didn't even feel bad as I roughly grabbed him while 'offering' to walk back to the ballroom, just to make sure that he wouldn't get lost(and I may have taken far too many turns and gone down extra halls so he would have trouble getting back again but he didn't need to know that). Once inside, I pulled the maid from earlier Ivy? to the side and informed them of the rats Prince's little attempt and they said they would finish letting the rest of the staff and the royals know so he couldn't try again.

Instead of doing what I wanted to do and rearranging that twerps face, I decided to take my anger out on the open bar. Before I could down too many drinks, I saw (Y/n) walk in. She was stunning in a green dress with enough flowers to make her look like she is a forest goddess. When she made eye contact me, her eyes lit up like a bomb and she rushed over while repeating, "We match!" Her words finally had me looking properly at the outfit Zelda had given to me. Finally the dots connected despite my buzz. Zelda had promised that she would get us together and it seemed that she was starting my having (Y/n) and I look like we are already a couple and we had coordinated our own outfits. Even the accessories matched or complemented something on the others outfit. I laughed, mentioning how funny it is while internally cursing Zelda. I asked if the princess had seen her dress and she replied with, "Yeah. She wanted to make sure that we weren't going to be wearing similar dresses, plus she helped with my hair and make up. It's pretty different from the stuff that we had back home."

Oh yeah... That little detail... (Y/n) is from a different world... And there is a really good chance that they will end up going back too... Right... That's why I haven't made a move yet totally not because I'm afraid that she will think I'm a pervert or a cheater.

"Link? Are you ok?" I blinked back to reality When did I get lost in thought? and looked at the object of my affections who had a very worried look directed at me. "If you need me to, I can pretend to get a migraine and have you 'walk me to my room'. Zelda would understand."

I feel my face flush and I let her know that it wont be necessary, "I'm fine. I just need a drink. Do you want anything?" She answers in the affirmative and I go grab two drinks, making sure to grab two (drink that you like). By the time I get our drinks, his royal creepiness has managed to get close and I can see her visibly recoil away as he tries to whisper in her ear. I try to get to her as quickly as possible, but the hall is full and I have to be polite as I get back to (Y/n)'s side before that creep can try anything funny. I manage to hear him saying something about visiting her room later before I manage to cut in with, "Excuuuse me, Princey. She'll actually be in my room." For the second time today his head snapped to me. I let myself smirk at him before adding, "As she often is." Technically not a lie as she does come up to help protect the triforce and puts barriers around it and sometimes we just hang out and chat. One time she insisted that we do face masks, it was nice letting her do what she wanted to me. His royal hot-head seemed to be pretty drunk since before he could come up with a retort, Zelda herself came and dragged him away. She looked at me in a way that told me Hilda maybe had just finished telling her about this guy.

I quickly asked to take (Y/n) to their room and keep an eye on them, but before I finished asking, Zelda insisted on me taking (Y/n) to bed. As I turned to comfort (Y/n), I thought I heard the princess mutter about how she hoped that I have a good night with a little too much giggle in her voice for me to be comfortable. Against my better judgement, I ignored her to turn back to (Y/n) only to see her Downing the last drops of the drinks I had brought over and has a sour look on her face. When did I give them to her?

POV CHANGE: (Y/N)

Why does this keep happening? Who is raising the nobility of this world? Why are they all selfish assholes who only think with their dicks? At least this guy was drunk and we can pretend that it's the alcohol's fault and not him being a creep like all the others. I finish chugging, what was probably meant to be, Links drink as I begin to plan what I'll be taking from the liquor Cellar. I'm already mentality divvying up the bottles between him and I. He is back at my side seconds after Zelda drags her newest failure suitor away. He's probably telling her to wait up for him. I feel myself frown before shaking off the thought.

I look up at the hero and offer up a mischievous grin and tilt an empty glass to him as I ask, "Wanna go on a raid?" He stares at me before grinning back and nodding. We moved quickly and quietly to the cellar and once we had our loot and a quick stop at the kitchens, we made our way back to his room. Before we could get set up, a sharp knock came from his door. We look at each other and nod before we quickly hide our loot.

When Link opens the door, he reveals Zelda. She immediately begins talking, "I'm here to check up on you two. You both are being officially excused and don't have to return to the ball. And, " she turns to me directly, "I wanted to let you know that Prince Finkly has been locked in his quarters and we've had guards posted and patrolling to make sure he does not get out. And he absolutely will be leaving first thing in the morning. I am so sorry. By the time Ilia was able to fill me in on what this guy had been up to he was already several drinks deep and I hadn't noticed you come in." She looked like she was about to cry so I grabbed her by the shoulders, gently making her look at me.

"It's okay Zelda. He didn't touch me, and I honestly couldn't really hear what he was saying because he was too fucking drunk. I'm okay." I emphasized the last sentence so that there would be no room for argument and pulled her into a hug. I held her for a moment before reminding her that there was a ball that she should probably get back to. The reminder had her rushing toward the door, but she turned back to Link.

"Can I have a quick word with you?" Her tone made me shiver and I wondered just how much trouble the loudmouthed hero was in. Rather than find out, I left them to it and used changing into something more comfy as an excuse. Poor Link shot me a look, silently begging that I take him with me but I ignored it and ran to my room. I changed as fast as I could, knowing that climbing up and down the stairs would take up most of the time Zelda would generally need to chew him out.

Once I was redressed, I walked back to Links room. After making sure that Zelda was gone and we were situated on his bed, we talked while we drank and feasted on our stolen goods. Eventually, we started playing (game*) where the winner of each round would ask each other a question or, if they didn't want to answer, the loser would have to take a shot. After like two hours, we had finished the snacks, Link finally wins a round after like 10 losses in a row and asks if I have feelings for anyone in the castle. By this point, I'm far enough gone that I don't realize that it's him answer honestly. I tell him that yeah, I do have a crush. I dropped my voice to a whisper before saying, "You are not allowed to tell him," I shift closer, scooching our games to the side in order to lean in conspiratorially, "but I think Link is kinda cute!" I let out a giggle while continuing. "He's funny and charming and he always comes by to check on me. He peels oranges for me. He's just kinda..." I let out a dreamy sigh, "ya know? Plus he was accidentally matching with-" before I could finish gushing about Link to his face, there was a knock on his door.

I get up and stumble over, opening the door to reveal Ilia. She is there holding a tray of hot food which I happily take and thank her thoroughly. She giggles at my drunken antics, mentioning that she should have brought more water, before turning around. She waves over her shoulder as she begins her descent back down to who-knows-where. I shut the door and look to where Link was, only to find the bed has been vacated. Before I can ask where he is, I am suddenly empty handed. I finally am able to locate the brunette as he places the tray on his desk before he turns back to me.

His face is like a mask, unreadable and hiding his thoughts and pretty. He holds his arms out, the same way I do when I am offering a hug and I immediately launch myself at him. Luckily, he had been answering my questions rather than drinking so he managed to not topple over as I landed in his arms. He holds me close and I can smell the pine soap he used earlier, and I can't help but nuzzle into his neck. He whispers something into my hair that I cant make out, and when I pull back to look at him, he kisses me. I don't need to think about it, when I go pulling him in by the collar as he starts to move away. Link picks me up to move us to the bed, where we continue making out like we're in high school; until our lungs remind us that oxygen is a necessity not an option.

"Do you have any idea how long I've been wanting to do that?" He gasped out while I was still trying to recall which way is up. I don't have a chance to answer before he begins to rant at me about how, "I've been in love with you for months! And the whole time you still think that I'm in love with Zelda!? How could I have been more obvious! Do you remember when the princess almost had an aneurysm when she saw me hand feeding you apple slices. Even the king knew. How dense are you?" Rather than give him a verbal answer, I pulled him in for another quick kiss to shut him up.

I pulled back and simply stated, "I have learned to never assume that anyone likes-likes me. Plus, I'm pretty openly affectionate and thought you were just reciprocating. But now that I know how you really feel, I think I'd like it if we could..." I close my eyes, take a breath and just let it out. "Maybe we can start dating. If you want?" After a moment of silence, I crack one eye open and see that he is looking at me like I'm a painting on display. Finally, he lets out the loudest 'YES' before pulling me in for another kiss.

The next morning, I watched as several people handed the king, Zelda and Ilia rupies after Link and I walked in holding hands and confirmed that we were now courting. It suddenly dawned on me just how many people knew about Link and I crushing on each other and how many people in Hyrule placed bets on whether we would get together.

"Am I really that blind?" Link presses a kiss to my cheek before responding in the affirmative. if he wasn't so cute, I'd be tempted to scold him.

*ngl, I couldn't decide on a game so choose what you want. Poker would probably be best, but I've gotten drunk and played Egyptian Rat Screw/Slap and it was so fun.

The moment we were alone, Karl's arms were wrapped around my waist so tight I worried that he might crush me. Luckily, we were standing next to a sofa and I was able to get him to sit down but he pulled me into his lap. I wrap my arms around his shoulders and gently card my fingers through his hair. We sit like that for a while and I think he has fallen asleep. Suddenly, I feel his body tense before feeling him murmur something into the skin around my collarbone. Before I can ask him to repeat it, he lets me go and sets me to the side. The second he stands, one of the maids knocks to let us know that a room has been prepared. We follow silently and I thank the other woman when she bids us good night. Once we are alone, I feel Karl wrap his arm around my middle again.

"Any chance that I can change into some PJ's before you cuddle me to death?" He grumbles a bit before letting me go. "You might want to switch into something a little more comfy too. Just in case." I sent a wink over my shoulder. Karl's face turned a lovely shade of crimson and he quickly dashed into what I assumed was an en-suite bathroom. I chuckled as I placed my key into the door and attempted to open my pocket space. It took a couple of tries but I finally managed to get it open and walked in.

I managed to get the dress off, but before I could do much else, Karl slammed at the door open. He and I stood there, him staring at me and my underwear well my mind went totally blank. After about 10 seconds he suddenly lets out, "What the fuck... How the hell did you manage to do this?" He then shuts the door and opens it again. "This," he gestures around the room, "should not exist. How the hell are you doing this?" I continued to stare at him as I slowly reached over and pulled on a robe. This seems to pull him out of his confusion and I get to watch as his face and ears go bright red. He stutters out an apology before tripping over is own feet as he backs up and lands flat on his back. I also ended up on the ground due to me laughing myself almost to the point of tears while he lay on the ground. His groans of pain and grumbles of embarrassment, as well as my gasping giggles fill the air around us.

Once I could breathe, I pulled on some PJ's and explained to Karl about the whole magic thing as I undid my hair and removed my make up. I told him how Granny Jane taught me to make the pocket space and Uncle Danny taught me to float which had him looking at me in terror as I demonstrated by floating into the bedroom and touching the ceiling. As I rose up he looked so concerned and stayed right beneath me, looking like he was waiting to catch me. I played a little prank on him by continually staying out of his reach and laughing at him as he jumped to try and grab me. Once I decided that he'd had enough I came down and he pulled me into his arms, refusing to let me go as we continued to discuss things. Once we finished talking, I let him process for a bit before my yawns became too frequent. We decided to just go right to bed and deal with everything tomorrow.

This time, I opened my door to my pocket space, I found a letter in my box.

One day, I had found two boxes, one bolted to the wall and the other was sitting on the chair I had put in for doing my makeup and hair. I remember at the time being super freaked out because 'how did this box get here. In my personal, private pocket dimension.' As it turned out, Karl and I aren't just attracted to each other, we are soulmates. Two halves of one whole. These boxes were intended to allow us to communicate regardless of when or where we are. Mine is simple and made of wood with stars painted on it, whereas Karl's was entirely made of metal with little wolves etched into it. at the time, my box was an invitation to a party. The envelope had my name inside a gear and a horse on the wax seal holding it shut, and remembering that Karl had mentioned running a factory and that he was, in fact, a lord, I figured that it had to be him. I remember the first time thinking 'how the hell he managed to get the invitation inside my space that is literally outside of space and time? Where did the boxes come from? How did they get here!?!' At the time, I chose to accept that magic is weird, and they were meant to be here, and apparently, the boxes are a set. I'd run a few tests and find that they are little portals to each other. Anything that is put in one will show up in the other; as we had during the weeks when we couldn't see each other. It was nice being able to talk to him when I wasn't physically there. He had even asked for my opinion when it came to things involving the renovation of the factory.

I figured I should stop reminiscing and turn my attention to the new invite before it got too late. It's very pretty; loopy writing on black paper with gold ink informs of a party with a request to stay on theme, Starry Night. Luckily for me, I was given a beautiful deep blue gown that had silver stars and glitter all over the skirt and a matching shawl. I pulled the dress on and found a set of opera length gloves and silver jewelry set with white and deep blue stones and some silver heels. My hair ended up in an elegant bun with my bangs pulled into waves being held in place with several bedazzled pins, adding to the starry effect. I did a dark blue eye shadow to match the dark blue dress with silver eyeliner and glitter spattered across my cheeks and shoulders, taking care to add some little stars and even actual constellations, with a deep reddish purple lip to finish it off(feel free to do imagine different hair+make up+outfit if you want, I just like lots of details and think the dress is stunning). Final touches were a set of silver heels and some small star pins to attach the shawl to the skirt. Overall, I looked like a piece of the night sky came to life.

Once I finished checking myself out in the mirror, I opened the door to the now familiar hall of Castle Dimitrescu. I'd totally lost count of the number of times that I'd randomly walk into one of the hallways. At this point, I'd get a little excited to see Alcina's decor. I would always end up dancing with Karl. Once we grew bored, we'd go into the garden or a side room and would chat for ages(that's totally all we would do. We definitely never tried to climb the shelves in the library only to end up buried under books after a few too many drinks). The castle staff would see us splitting off and would prepare a tray of treats and had gotten to the point that they had begun to keep some of my favorites on hand. Tonight would probably be no different, as I walked toward the nearby balcony and then floated (Thank you, Uncle Danny, for teaching me to do this. It's fun) down to the garden. I walk to the main entrance and wave to familiar maids as I re-enter and practically skip toward the ballroom. Karl and I have our routine down to a science, We'd wait for Miranda to make her speech, she'd leave, we'd enter the dance floor with other partners but leave with each other, then we'd talk in the garden before going inside to continue while we drink and eat whatever the maids brought. Some days we'd spend more time dancing in the main ballroom or witch ever private room we would stumble into, while other nights, we'd talk until the sun came up and we both had to go home. I milled around, talking to acquaintances and the friends I'd made during my time adventuring in the past, but once Miranda stood at the front of the stage, all those in attendance turned to her.

"Thank you all for attending today's gala. Tonight, I will be making a special announcement. As many of you are aware, my children are seeking suitors, and I am certain that one will find their special someone tonight." All four of the lords looked either embarrassed or confused, Alcina even standing to look at the others before turning back to Miranda, who ignored her blatant staring. This caused all of the guests to look amongst ourselves and murmur in confusion and a few wisps of excitement because no one knew if she has to power to see the strings if fate or if it was merely wishful thinking. Instead of acknowledging the reaction, Miranda looked right at me and held my gaze, her eyes feeling like they were seeing past my flesh. Her eyes finally left mine and looked through the crowd as she continued, "I hope whoever they are, that they make my child happy. I await our official meeting." She left with Moreau and Alcina hot on her heels. While the rest of the guests began gossiping, I locked eyes with Karl, and we silently agreed to avoid each other until he was able to gather more information. He began to follow after Miranda, and I inserted myself into a nearby conversation.

After about an hour, Alcina came back and began to look through the crowd with careful consideration, unlike her usual mingling. I tried to see if Karl had come back, but I couldn't spend too long looking without being obvious. While I waited, I danced with a few random guys and enjoyed some of the food and drinks available. Despite how odd 50's food can be plus the fact that this is Romania and not the USA Alcina usually had some amazing food and tonight was no exception. When I next looked at the stage, I saw Alcina and Donna talking to each other while scanning the crowd. Suddenly, I felt someone tap my shoulder and turn to see Karl behind me, but something was wrong. It looked like him, but he felt off, and even when he asked to dance, it set me on edge, like I was dealing with a dangerous stranger instead of my friend. I quickly decided to agree but treat this impostor like a stranger. As we danced, I was able to glance at the stage, and I saw my Karl standing there glowering at the phony holding me. I manage to break away after one dance and rush outside, hoping that the real Karl meets me.

"Did that bitch hurt you? Say anything weird? What happened?" Thank the ancients that my Karl is a smart puppy. He's waiting by the fountain that we met for the first time and immediately begins to check me over. I assure him that nothing happened beyond the dance and he visibly relaxed, dropping his head to rest on my shoulder. I attempt to comfort him by gently scratching his back. After a moment, I quietly asked who I had danced with and once I did, it sent him right back into his angry panic. He stepped back as he began to explain, "It was that witch Miranda! She can change her form. It's her ability, like my metal." He had mentioned that they all had powers but he'd never explained it further than that and I'd barely offered an explanation when I'd given him his box beyond 'its so we can talk all the time' and it being 'a soulmate thing'. That suddenly felt like a major oversight on both parts. "She said she wanted me to settle down, but I didn't think she would have noticed you! Especially when you only show up every few months." His words had me doing a hard reset because to me it has only been a few months.

"What do you mean, every few months? It's been like 2 weeks since the last ball? We just met like 2 months ago?" He looks at me like I've grown a second head.

"(Y/n), we met over a year ago? You... is this why it takes you days to respond to my letters?" He acted like this was the answer to everything while I am dealing with my very world crashing around me. Right as we both seem to calm down but before we can begin to discuss the time discrepancies and figure out what and when, one of the maids rushes over, quietly informing us that Miranda is demanding that everyone is to return to the ballroom. We look at each other before following, realizing that both our lives are about to change. hopefully we can make the changes work for us. We are led to the door closest to the stage and we both are his with a sense of dread, but we have to go in. As I enter, I find that the entire room is staring at us in a mix of adoration, anger, and confusion with a fun sprinkling of mischief. Miranda is already stood on the stage with the other lords beside her. She smiles at us in a way that makes my skin crawl and judging by the growl I felt more than heard, I think Karl wasn't pleased either.

"Welcome back. Tonight we have a very special occurrence. My youngest son has managed to find his soulmate. Something I hope all my children are able to do in their lifetimes." At that the room erupted into gasps and delighted cheering but the other lords looked uncomfortable or even upset by her words. The second part of that statement definitely had a double meaning, and wasn't sure I wanted to know what the less obvious meaning was.

Karl places his hand on my lower back and murmurs in my ear, "Follow along." I nod and smiled shyly while assuming that he did the same. We both nod along as Miranda talks about the special bond and luck that any of her children had been chosen to meet their missing piece. My cheeks began to ache from keeping my smile plastered on, but I managed to do it even when she asked us to dance. I wanted to decline and request a private moment but Karl agreed and began to lead me to the dance floor. It seemed that even he knew when to pick his battles, and this is a foreign war-front family dynamic for me, so I chose to trust my soulmate and followed his lead.

We got into position in front of the stage, where everyone was watching and staring at us, waiting for the music to fill the room. While we dance, Karl whispers apologies and promises to free me from this place. I return his apologies with reassurance that it's not his fault, and my own promises to bring him with me when I leave. Mid spin, he chuckles, "At least it's you and not some stranger," so quiet I almost don't hear him. His statement still reaches me causing me to flush and switch my focus to the lapels of his vest, which happen to match the silver of my gloves almost perfectly. While we dance, Miranda makes another announcement about an engagement party within the next month, and it takes so much restraint to not to throw something at her. Karl starts to let out another low growl right as I place my cheek on his shoulder to calm myself, his growl instantly turns into a humming purr. I murmur a soft 'thank you' into his shoulder and feel his chest rumble as he responds with, "Save the thanks for when we're out of here." We finish our dance and are quickly rushed to a side room by Alcina. I notice that Miranda is in neither room which puts me on edge thanks to the info Karl gave me about her ability while he and I were in the garden...less than 20 minutes ago.

Once we are all seated, the lady of the castle insists that Karl and I stay in her home while she has the factories plumbing updated, "As a wedding gift to you." She spoke to me but he next comment was aimed for Karl, "I can't expect my youngest brother to get it handled soon enough. Besides, this way we can all be sure that everything is installed properly." I feel Karl bristling and get ready to launch himself at her from beside me, so I quickly get to thanking her before Karl can snap and give his hand a reassuring squeeze. That action makes him tense up as his eyes snap down to our hands and he realizes that they are intertwined.

I take advantage of his sudden revelation and request that we go to a private room and enjoy the confirmation of our soul bond, which had her smiling and cooing about young love and how cute we are before calling over a different maid to prepare a guest room for us. "Marie will take you to a private study. And I hope you won't make my maids clean anything you wouldn't want to get back to me." It took a moment but we both figured out what the taller woman was referring to before remembering some of our drunken shenanigans. Karl grumbled about her not needing to worry and I was hoping for a hole to open underneath me and swallow me whole. Once she got the reaction she wanted, she left, he laughter echoing down the hall after her. Thankfully Marie was polite enough to wait until we weren't so flustered before leading us to the aforementioned private study.

The picture of the dress is from Pinterest. I did some edits after realizing that I had accidentally posted it.

I'd spent hours on the phone trying to get answers to what happened that night and why or even how. No one had any answers and kept saying to ask my aunt Sam, but she was on vacation with her husbands' and Alice, the baby that randomly showed up a few years ago and they decided to adopt. Sometimes, being one of two witches in a family of wizards was usually amazing, but right now it sucked major ass.

See, the difference between a witch and a wizard is how they interact with magic. Wizards study and have exact ways that things work, viewing magic like baking or a kind of science. If you mess up the tiniest detail of whatever spell you're doing, it wont work or you end up with a different spell. Whereas witches interact with magic like cooking and music, basing things off of feelings and personal preferences, often getting by just fine adding a pinch of this and dash of that rather than exact measurements. There are also sorcerers, people who are able to use both types of magic seamlessly, which is what aunt Sam technically counts as, but she was originally a witch so my point still stands.

The only person who was even remotely helpful was Great Gran Jane, who said I need to be prepared for it to happen again. She said the same thing happened to her brother, being sent to a different time. The thought of it happening again made me excited rather than worried or nervous. Apparently, when he brought back a ring it stopped. She offered to teach me how to make a pocket dimension to put some things in case I got stuck for longer than one evening. She wanted to make it herself but aunt Clara yelled at her for trying to do something that could endanger her life. Gran had aunt Clara text me the spell and a few variations just in case it doesn't work the first time. She's the absolute best.

It took a couple of tries, but I managed to make a space the size of a medium walk in closet. Once I was sure that it would open to the same place consistently, I put in some clothes, water and cash, even making the effort to be sure the money was from before 1958. I thought about getting some Leu (yes I looked it up), but figured that asking the people at the bank to check the dates that they were made would be too weird, so american money would have to do. I also decided to get clothes appropriate for the time and different seasons too. If anyone there asked why I looked out of place for the local culture, I could blame it on being from America. Luckily I was able to just snag some from family members and altered some of my own clothes to fit the vibes. I did decide to omit the bullet bra, but the other accessories were very fun, like the little gloves and kerchiefs, and even included some recreation make up. I also added a few items that are older and newer just in case. I also went ahead and got a few formal dresses and gowns that would be appropriate for the time because of where I was last.

Luckily I didn't get brought back while I was getting everything, but I could feel that I would be going back soon. About a month after the first visit, I was trying to find a dress for another fantasy ball and ended up there again. One moment I was in a cute little shop trying on dresses and then I opened the door to show a cousin and instead it was the hall from before. I quickly make a decision on a dress, grab my own clothes and step out to open up my little pocket space, making sure not to be seen by anyone.

From what I overheard while hiding from some passing maids, there will be another ball starting in 2 hours, so I use this to my advantage and get ready. I take the time to properly apply period appropriate make up and do my hair to match. I pull on a stunning red ball gown with white lace details that my Grandma wore to prom back in the day, pairing it with the matching white lace gloves and pearl jewelry. In general, the whole thing looks so regal and I look stunning.

After making sure that no one is nearby, I slink out of my hiding place and close the portal. I'm close to a window and can see where people are entering so find the nearest balcony and use a little floating spell to keep from ruining my hard work. I slip into the crowd and re-enter the building that looks like a very ornate manor or small castle. Once we get to the ballroom, I see that the platform is there once again, and there are 5 people stood on top.

The first to catch the eye is a very tall woman in a white and gold gown reminiscent of the pink one Marilyn Monroe wears in 'Diamonds are a girls best friend'. Standing at the front of the stage was a woman in what looked like a nuns uniform with a gold mask. Next to her is a woman in all black wearing a veil and on the other side is what looks to be a man with facial lymphoma and severe scoliosis who could be smelled from across the room. I know it's him because when someone else commented on the scent, a maid shushed them and explained that he always smells like that, but that he tends to leave very quickly. Stood slightly behind the veiled woman was Lord Heisenberg. He had on the same suit as last time, but today he was missing the hat and his hair was parted right down the middle. Our eyes locked and I suddenly felt like I needed to talk to him. Before I could do anything, the woman in the gold mask addressed the crowd.

"Thank you all for attending tonight's party, and thank you Lady Dimitrescu for hosting." As she spoke the tall woman gave a slight bow. "Before we begin, I would like to remind everyone that while you may go into the gardens, the majority of the castle are off limits. During the last gala, there was an incident due to people sneaking off and we would like to not repeat it. Thank you once again, and please enjoy." After finishing her speech, she left the room and the smelly man followed suit while the others from the stage began to do their own thing and music started to play. The veiled woman sat at a small table still on the stage while the others got off and began to mingle.

Before I could go towards Lord Heisenberg, I was asked to dance. I said yes with the hopes of getting my mind off of the man with silly round glasses. During the dance, as my partner spun me, a voice asked to cut in. My previous partner began to protest but stopped upon realizing who had spoken. Lord Heisenberg took my hand and swear I felt a jolt of electricity flow from his touch. As we danced, he asked for my name and I just blurted it out. He repeated it and I wanted to melt right there on the dance floor. After the song ended, he invited me to chat outside and I agreed.

"What brings you here today?" He asks once we reach a secluded area of the garden. I give a generic answer about coming for the gala and he seems to accept it. He goes on to ask about where I'm from and I'm as honest as I can be without letting it slip that I'm not from this time. We actually had a pretty nice conversation, but eventually he had to go. Claimed that 'vampiric bitch' was calling, and the low growl that came with the title made me think that she was truly what he claimed. I also got the feeling that I needed to leave, so we parted ways with a vague offer to find each other next time. I sneaked my way towards the hall I entered through earlier and managed to slip back to modern times without being spotted. I could feel that would not be my last visit to the past, but now I felt excitement instead of cold dread.

The dress idea

This is certainly one way for this evening to go. I finally manage to go to a vampire ball and am having a blast, but when I go to use my portal key, it sends me to some other ball, probably in some other country judging based on my inability to understand anyone. My guess is that the specific door I used had either been used or that a part of the door was a portal, and either way, it had not been sealed properly after. The only other option was that I was meant to be here, and that possibility was bone chilling, as that meant that I may not be able to get back home. Instead of thinking about how I could end up being stuck here with nothing and having a panic attack and wasting a perfectly good dress, I decided to go ahead and have as much fun here as I can.

Eventually, I ended up outside, enjoying the chill of spring air after being inside all evening. Turns out many of the people knew English and there were several people who had come from out of town and were more than happy to tell me all about how this party is to introduce the youngest of the local lords to high society. I'd also found out that it is 1956 and the 'lord' had just turned 25. According to them, he had come back when he was in his early 20s and had spent a long time working on fixing his factory outside of the town but with his birthday having recently passed and another of the lords demanding that they celebrate, the ball managed to happen. I was able to get one good look at the Lord, but from what I could see, he looked to be healthy as a horse. His hair was short, from what I could tell underneath his grey hat, and was a medium brown. I couldn't even see his eyes from behind the round sunglasses he wore, despite the fact that it was nighttime and he was inside. Beyond that, he wore a charcoal suit that was missing the tie and had the top buttons undone. He also wore an expression that screamed that he'd rather be anywhere but here.

I decided that it would be best to avoid contact with all my might. Really, I'd be avoiding any of the lords if I could. It was such a simple plan made easier by the lords being on this platform at one end of the hall, but somehow I missed when the man of the hour left the aforementioned stage. Because of this, I ended up running smack into him while I admired a marble statue, dang near falling flat on my ass. The only reason that my butt was spared was thanks to him wrapping his arms around my waist before I reached the floor. We locked eyes, even with his glasses and I was immediately mesmerized. I realized that it could potentially be dangerous to stand out side and did my best to stabilize myself quickly so that I could make a quick exit to the modern era and not so I could ignore how handsome he is up close. I muttered a quick apology and, without giving him a chance to respond, ran to find a good door and get home. Once I was sure that no one was nearby, I said a prayer and tried my key. Thankfully, this time, it opened to my hallway. I sighed in relief and stepped into my home, making sure to sever the ties between that place and my home.

Despite my best effort, I couldn't get the feeling of his fingers on my waist and the little scars on his face and neck. I suddenly wondered what color his eyes were, but I couldn't quite visualize them. I went through the motions of undressing and de-glamming myself, but he kept worming his way back into my thoughts. I figured it was a little crush because of how he saved me and went to sleep. Suddenly, the memory of my little cousin pops into my head, how she just showed up one day with a nasty infection from the pre-vaccine days, and my aunt and uncles got her all fixed up. Hopefully, the two incidents were not related.

POV Change Because I Can

I wasn't expecting there to be anyone outside when this girl walked right into me. I automatically grabbed her and swore I felt both our pulses speed up. I looked up and found her eyes already on my face. I assumed that her pupils were dilating in fear, but the way color imminently rushed to her face, it could have been embarrassment at the situation. The smell of her perfume was intoxicating, wrapping itself around my mind. I was still trying to figure out what made it so good when she ran off. I thought about chasing her, but then I remembered that I was supposed to be inside 'celebrating'. I shot a last look in the direction she ran off in before sighing and dragging myself inside.

Its fucking annoying that the most interesting thing that happened was that a random girl ran into me. I finally came back from my little stroll in the fake vampires' garden and still kept thinking about her. I could faintly smell her perfume as I retook my place next to Donna and her freaky ass doll. I could feel her look at me but thankfully she and the others didn't say anything. After several minutes, I felt a giant hand that could only belong to Alcina.

"Next time you want to leave for a few moments, have a better excuse." She handed me one of her cigarettes before returning to her seat. I looked at it in confusion when it finally hit me. She started smoking as a way to get a few moments alone. I let out a low chuckle and tucked the cigarette into my jacket pocket, remembering how my father used to smoke cigars. He used to say that the best were the imported ones but that they were expensive. I suddenly realized that the factory, my 'inheritance', could be used to make some money. Maybe I could get enough to get away from Miranda and her family of freaks. Maybe I could find someone and create a life away from all this. Maybe I could... I shook my head and grit my teeth. I would be stuck here forever thanks to that thing that she stuck in my chest.

The end of the night could not come soon enough. I damn near sprinted to get home and take off the extra layers and tight clothes. Ever since I was given Miranda's 'gift', I'd found that it was nearly impossible to shift other than with a full or new moon. However, that thing had given me the unusual ability to move and alter metal, which made fixing the old factory that much easier. In addition, I now needed much less sleep, able to go on for days before feeling a hint of exhaustion. It had been almost 15 years since my actual family had passed, and 8 years since she had claimed to have some old family heirloom as a scam to use me. From what I could tell, she had spent almost 3 years experimenting on me before I was released. I failed to be a vessel but was still good enough to be a pawn in her game. I knew that she was just pretending to care for me and the others in the area but had no way to prove it. I just had to wait for her to mess up.

Once I was wearing more comfortable clothes, I went back to fixing the old factory. I needed to get the smell of that random woman off of me, and maybe just maybe the smell of motor oil and old wood would get her out of my mind. Despite working on it for 4 years, I was still learning how everything worked and what each part did, and how they fit together. Luckily I had loved my mechanic and workshop classes when I was in school but trying to remember what everything did and filling the gaps between what was taught and what I was looking at ended up being harder than I'd initially expected. I had requested that the Duke pick up some books on mechanical engineering and maintenance. I looked into the factory and hoped that I might escape one day.

I wrote this on a whim. Please don't eviscerate me. I do not own the images used, and the dress I found on Pinterest.