the founders keys are like. barely thought out. but obvs arthur has the actual gardenview building key so they can Leave. but delilah has the art storage in the same way as when u have to start taking care of your own birth certificate. they have their designs and thus pretty much full control over themselves. i think this could also give the holiday toons year-round existance!!

delilahs tail is i think a lotus. if i remember. because of its life symbolism.

[Name] found himself in his room, staring out the window with a strange sense of… emptiness. It had been nearly two days since he set out from his old world, back when he was so sure, so confident.

He found himself thumbing over his newly formed ears, the pointy tips serving as a reminder that for now, he was trapped.

However, after settling into the castle, [Name] had taken note of many things. Malleus frequently visited, but was always cut short by some kingly business. The fae within the walls were respectful, but it was with thinly veiled distrust. It wasn't every day their King paid attention to someone, let alone an outsider.

[Name] couldn't help but feel no different than when he was in his home world. Others had always looked at him with annoyance or self-serving pity, as if seeing such a bitter and short-tempered man was just a reminder to not end up like [Name] did.

But… there was Malleus. As much as [Name] hated it, he couldn't miss the softness the Fae King held in his gaze, the gentle murmurs as he tried to help [Name] adjust to this new lifestyle. He felt turmoil settle deep in his chest, for he had sworn vengeance on Malleus, but he couldn't deny the festering crush building.

[Name] had to remind himself of the dream, of the betrayal and hurt he felt when Malleus had taken precious hours away and made him ultimately lose his only chance to return to his world. That was his drive to escape.

“Mister [Name]?” A voice broke him out of his thoughts, a knock sounding out on the heavy wooden door before it creaked open. [Name] recognized the silver hair belonging to one of Malleus’s guards, making him sit up. “Lunch is ready.”

“Coming.” [Name] responded absentmindedly, letting out a small sigh as he rose from his bed.

They walked down the corridor in silence, eventually reaching the dining hall. [Name] looked up, then almost paused in shock.

Malleus sat at the head of the table, eyes gleaming as he watched him. A small shiver ran up [Name]’s spine as he averted his eyes, one that he couldn't tell if it was discomfort or flusterment. He cleared his throat, going to sit in his usual spot before the king stopped him. “Sit by me today, won't you?”

[Name]’s hand hovered over the chair he was about to pull out, shifting his gaze back to Malleus. “...so be it.” He moved a few chairs down before sitting at his right hand, still cautious.

Malleus frowned, tilting his head. “Why do you still look at me like that? Have my accommodations not been enough?”

“No, they've been fine.” [Name] murmured back, keeping his eyes firmly fixated on his plate. He didn't dare look into those siren eyes, fearful of what trap may be set for him.

Malleus leaned back, eyes slightly narrowed. “Don't tell me it's still about the incident, is it? I’ve apologized, my dear. What else do you want me to do?”

Release me from this prison you made me.

[Name] didn't respond, instead taking a serving spoon and giving him a small helping of the food before them. It was some type of roasted bird served over steaming vegetables, something that reminded him of his late mother's cooking. But this food was all too perfect, not slightly burnt or overdone with pepper.

Malleus let out a sigh, interlocking his fingers as he keenly watched. “I’m here to discuss with you about our agreement.” He tried to gauge [Name]’s reaction, but the other just picked at his food. He pressed further, “I’ve managed to finish my duties, so we can travel for the next few days. Where do you want to go?”

“I’d like to visit all of the rings of the labyrinth,” [Name] spoke, pushing a carrot around the plate. “As well as their leaders. I believe that's a good first step, no?”

“If that's what you wish.” Malleus replied in a slightly softer tone, more reverent than before. [Name] had to hold back rolling his eyes–was Malleus trying to win him back with such flattery? As if!

[Name] had a reason for these visits, as he had formulated his Plan A to escape. He was going to meet with each of these leaders and observe them under a careful eye. If some showed any ounce of disdain or discontentment, he would convince them to host a coup against Malleus.

[Name] had been humiliated, battered, and now imprisoned. If he managed to usurp Malleus from his throne, the king could get a taste of his own medicine.

If his plan didn't work… he didn't want to think of that outcome quite yet.

“[Name], please. Look at me.” Malleus’s voice broke him from his thoughts. His eyes flicked up to see… concern in that enchanting evergreen gaze that haunted him. Malleus’s frown had deepened, his brows slightly furrowed. “I know I’ve hurt you, but in order to move past it, you have to talk to me. You barely even glance my way, and when you do, it's with caution and distrust."

“Do you blame me?” [Name] scowled, placing his fork down with a bit of force. “Have you bothered looking at my perspective?”

“I have. That's why I’m asking how you can forgive me.” Malleus tried to keep his voice level, but [Name] could see how his knuckles tightened. What a farce, acting all righteous when he was in the wrong.

“You're mad. Crazy. Insane!” [Name] scoffed, rising from his seat, making Malleus mimic. “You want my forgiveness?! Send me home!”

“...I can't.” Malleus’s brows tightened as he took a step forward, only to be reacted with a step back. He let out a small sigh through his nose as he continued in a softer tone. “Returning to your world wouldn't bring you any joy. You know it, deep down.”

“Who are you to speak for me?!” [Name] hissed back, temper flaring. “It's still my world–everything that I ever knew. But how would you know that? You're selfish.”

“[Name]--”

“Don't bother.” [Name] cut Malleus off as he turned around to the door.

As he took a step forward, a hand clasped around his wrist, tugging him to a stop. Malleus closed their distance, but still kept some space as he kept his grip. “[Name].” He spoke, far more firmly than he did before. “I know what you must think of me, but I don't want you to know me like that. Please understand I keep you here for a reason–”

“What reason, huh?” [Name] retorted in disbelief as he turned to Malleus with glaring eyes. “What could possibly be so essential to keeping me here?”

Malleus’s lips pursed slightly, and his grip finally slipped as his hand returned to his side. He let out a small sigh before speaking, “...when we travel to the sectors of the labyrinth, I will try to seek them out. They will inform you–its not my place.”

“They? Who are they?” [Name] raised a brow in suspicion. He hasn't met any women in this labyrinth surprisingly enough, so it surely wasn't anyone he knows.

“The Fates.” Malleus replied. “They are the eyes and ears of the labyrinth and… not under my jurisdiction. Quite the elusive one, so it's hard to ever come in contact with them. But I assure you, they will tell you the purpose of your stay here.”

[Name] paused. Was Malleus creating a bluff to try and throw him off, or was he telling the truth..?

“Whatever.” He scoffed after a heartbeat of silence, once more averting his gaze. “You better not be wasting my time, Malleus.”

“Of course not, my darling.” Malleus gave him a small smile, straightening to his full height. He gazed down at [Name] with that ever so tender look, the one that made the other either want to gag or blush like a schoolgirl. “I give you my promise.”

[Name] was in no spot to trust Malleus’s words… but also had no place to say that it was a full blown lie. Fine. I’ll play your game, he thought to himself as he walked out the doors. But I will be the victor.

༺༻

The next morning, [Name] rose early from his bed, still adjusting to his new fae abilities. The few hours of sleep he used to barely function on had turned into an easy, plentiful rest, giving him more energy than he ever had before.

Being a fae was far more different than he expected–besides from the physical attributes, [Name] now required less sleep and food as well as his senses heightened in degrees he couldn't imagine before. However, his body still ached from his transformation despite it being three days ago. He hoped it would fade soon.

Regardless, the reason he woke up earlier than normal was due to the day trip he had been promised. From what he understood, they would attempt to visit two sectors per day, taking about days total. [Name] would have to play his cards right if there was any chance he could convince the others…

[Name] finished getting dressed, closing the door behind him as he heard footsteps echo nearby.

“Good morning. Are you ready?” Malleus’s voice came from [Name]’s side, who let out a sharp exhale through his nose as he gained composure.

“...yeah. Let's go.” [Name] murmured, his hand leaving the door as he straightened his top. Malleus smiled, extending his hand out for the other to take. [Name]’s fingers twitched, but he ultimately ignored the Fae King’s offer as he gave a small glare in return. “Don't even think about it.”

Malleus’s fingers curled as they returned to his side, his smile faltering. “Ah…” Gah, now he looked like a kicked puppy–clearly a guilt tripping technique! “This way.”

They began their walk down the corridor once more, something that seemed to be an often repeat of a routine. All the hallways seemed to be the same, which drove [Name] mad. The silence between them was thick with awkward tension, Malleus keeping his space.

When they reached the end of the hallway, Malleus cleared his throat, lips slightly pursed as he stepped to the side. “We’ll visit the overseer of Ignihyde first, since he prefers to be left alone. I don't imagine we’ll be there long.”

[Name] gave a sideways glance, then wrapped his hand around the door handle as he tugged it open. “Then let's hurry up.”

“Of course.” Malleus muttered, closing the door behind him as they descended into a dark tunnel. It was similar to the one [Name] went through with Lilia when he went to the castle, with the same dim lit candles that lined the dark stone walls.

Ignihyde–that was the only area [Name] didn't pass through. He had no clue what to expect, but if this leader was as antisocial as Malleus was making him sound like, he wasn't sure if this would lead to an easy start.

Silence hung between them, tension thickening with every step that echoed in the cave. [Name]’s mind subconsciously shifted from his plans to the sudden hyper-realization of Malleus’s presence. The Fae king strode alongside him, keeping a respectable distance but was still close enough to make [Name] self conscious.

The one thing that bothered him most was the fact that [Name wasn't able to get a read on Malleus’s intent with him. Why had he exactly trapped him..? He remembered the mention of the Fates, but what did they tell him that would make Malleus do this?

“[Name],” Malleus’s voice broke through his thoughts, making the other blink back into attention. “We’re here.”

The cave had narrowed into a stairwell, the stone carved into steps only lit by blue fire lanterns. It felt eerie, a strange sense of dread causing [Name] to shiver slightly. Malleus noticed and found himself instinctively reaching out, only to force himself to stop as his jaw clenched.

“Don't worry, just… stay close.” Malleus murmured, then began to climb the steps. [Name] could only join close behind, slightly suspicious at the behavior.

After some arduous climbing, they emerged from a tunnel, where the cave yawned open in a large cavern. They stood on a platform where dark, murky water lapped the dark stone. The blue lanterns had shifted to large flames licking against the walls, giving light to the dark room. A singular boat rocked gently against the dock, where Malleus led [Name] towards.

“Watch your step.” Malleus spoke, offering his hand out once more to help [Name] onto the boat. The other paused, peeking over the dock. Within the murky waters, a skeletal hand brushed against the wooden boat, making him jump back.

“What was that?!” [Name] exclaimed, his back bumping against Malleus’s chest. He was too flabbergasted to even be upset at the position–

“Fear not,” Malleus reassured, his hand brushing against [Name]’s bicep and resting it there. “They are the souls of the Underworld. They will not hurt you… as long as you don't go near them."

“Oh, just great.” [Name] muttered sarcastically, but was still too nervous to stray from Malleus’s side. The Fae King lowered his hand to guide the other onto the boat as he eyed the waters (much to [Name]’s displeasure… but he wasn't messing with these souls), following shortly after.

At the front of the boat, what [Name] thought was the bow instead rose a shrivelled corpse with an oar in hand. The bony, rotting thing began to row across the large lake, making [Name] swallow harshly. He gripped any loose clothing he had tightly, trying to calm his nerves.

Malleus frowned at the sight, and before the other could blink, he had knelt down to [Name]’s height and came to close proximity. “Keep your gaze on me and ignore everything else. Don't let them win your fear.”

[Name]’s eyes widened at the sudden declaration, lips pursed tightly. Alas, he found himself keeping his eyes right on Malleus’s own, finding a strange comfort beyond the hues of rich green.

They broke contact when the boat shook, scraping the side of yet another platform. They had crossed the river, much to [Name]’s relief.

As they got off, [Name] spared one more glance to the living corpse and the souls whirling in the water, a shiver rolling down his spine. “Do we have to go that way again?”

“Not today.” Malleus replied calmly, his voice soothing as if he were comforting a scared child. “Let's move on. The Shrouds are awaiting us.”

A small veil of awkward silence fell over them as they traversed through the dim corridor, Malleus leading the way. Soon enough, a stairwell came into view, making [Name] let out a small sigh of relief.

Awaiting them was a young man–around the age of 15 if [Name] had to guess–his short blue hair wispy and flowy, like a flame.

“Your Majesty,” He bowed politely, then faced [Name]. “And his esteemed guest. I hope your travels went well..?”

“They were fine, Ortho.” Malleus replied, a small smile on his lips. He stole a glance at [Name] before asking, “Is your brother ready for us?”

“Indeed he is. Follow me.” Ortho hummed, gleeful as he spun around and led the way. [Name] raised a brow, a little shocked at the attitude of the young boy. This must be one of the Shroud brothers that Malleus mentioned, he figured.

The dark stone yawned into an open seating area, the furniture surprisingly modern. [Name] could compare it to the luxury brands he saw in magazines back home with how… polygonic they were.

In a large, cushioned chair sat a taller, older man with similar fiery hair, but far longer. His blue lips were still on his pale face, as if this meeting was bothering his precious time.

“Malleus.” The man greeted, still polite but was much less enthusiastic than his brother. “Not everyday the ultra-rare SSR of the realm drops by for a visit.”

“You can relax, Idia.” Malleus chuckled slightly, noting the tense shoulders of the other. He lifted his arm to present [Name] beside him. “I am simply taking my… guest around for a tour. He wished to get to know everyone.”

Idia’s yellow eyes flicked to [Name], who stared back with a bit of curiosity. He had seen plenty of weird things here, but flaming blue hair was a new one.

“...I’m [Name].” He cleared his throat after a small pause, forcing himself to remember his objective. “Pleasure to meet you.”

Idia’s expression slightly contorted, the corner of his mouth twitching. The entire demeanor of this man screamed uncomfortable, as if this entire interaction was painstakingly ripping out this man’s soul.

“Well, is that everything..?” Idia asked cautiously, glancing between the two with a raised brow.

[Name] frowned. He had a feeling he wasn't going to get much from this guy. Maybe he could have luck with the younger brother–Ortho, was it? Regardless, he could sense that it would be hard to catch this guy alone, as he seemed to be the introverted type.

“Actually, I have some business to discuss with you.” Malleus spoke up after [Name] hesitated to answer, placing his hands behind his back. “A private one, if you will. You don't mind, do you?”

He glanced at [Name], who quickly shook his head. “No, go ahead. I’ll just wait here, I guess…”

Malleus gave him a small nod before disappearing with Idia into the next room, leaving him alone with Ortho. Now was his chance.

“[Name], was it?” Ortho approached, still quite cheery. He and his brother were practically opposites. “I’ve heard a bit about you and your baby brother. Are you adjusting to Twisted Wonderland well?”

[Name] blinked in slight surprise, not expecting to have the topic brought up. Though he should've–as far as he knew, he was the hottest news the place has gotten in years.

“Yeah, I’m doing fine.” He responded, instinctively going up to touch his pointed fae ears. He had always played with his lobes before, and the habit had grown worse as of late. “I still don't know much about this place or its people… including Malleus.”

[Name] prayed the boy would take the bait. If he could figure out his position on the Fae King, he may have a chance to gain an ally.

Ortho’s yellow eyes crinkled in what could be hinted as mischief, placing his arms behind his back. “Well, Ignihyde is the place for knowledge. We have a vast archive–one I’m relatively well-versed in.”

The statement made [Name] pause, his curiosity taking a turn. “An archive? Like a library..?”

“And more.” Ortho replied, tilting his head as he examined [Name]. “I take it you’d be interested?”

“I–”

“I’ll be back soon to further discuss plans,” Malleus’s voice cut him off before he could even respond, the two walking out from the room and approaching where Ortho and [Name] were. “I’m afraid we’re on a tight schedule.”

“Yeah… if you insist.” Idia muttered, his eyes once more drifting to [Name], but now with suspicion.

[Name]’s lips twitched into a small frown, confused. Why the sudden change..? Or rather, just what did they talk about in there?

“Come along, [Name].” Malleus urged gently, his emerald eyes now fixated on the other once more. [Name] stiffened as he felt a gloved hand brush the curve of his back, being guided away from the brothers.

“Oh, erm–goodbye, Ortho. I’ll try to be in touch.” [Name] quickly got out, giving the younger Shroud a small wave (who gladly waved back, that small twinkle of mischief still in his eye).

They went into the corridor once more, now taking a different path than the one they took before. [Name] had loosened up slightly as Malleus kept his hand firmly on his back, but was still confused.

“Why the sudden leave..?” He finally asked after they went down a new stairwell, the blue fire transitioning into its original orange hue.

“Shroud and I… don't see eye-to-eye on many things. Including some of my policies.” Malleus replied, still being rather vague as he snuck a glance down at him. “It's just boring politics, my dear. Nothing you'd be interested in.”

Yet, [Name] was quite keen to know–especially since Idia gave him that strange look. But he knew there wouldn't be any more answers from Malleus for now, so he moved the topic for now. “So, who's next?”

“Schoenheit of Pomefiore. You remember him quite well.” Malleus spoke, his tone almost teasing with the additional statement. [Name] could feel his mood dampen instantly, the vivid memory of being poisoned via apple flashing in his mind.

“Ah… great. Just who I’d want to see.” [Name] grumbled, making the other chuckle.

“Don't be too harsh on him. He was following orders.” Malleus mused.

“Yeah, your orders.” [Name] retorted, breaking off from Malleus. That betrayal was burned into his mind forever, giving him a bad taste in his mouth at the mere mention.

Malleus frowned, a look of realization forming as he awkwardly retracted his hand. “...right.”

Gah, there was that damning puppy-eyed look again. How could Malleus dare pull such a move on [Name]?! He could feel the twinge of sympathy in his heartstrings where Malleus played him like a harp, but he desperately washed the feeling over with his hurt and anger.

“I know words probably don't matter much now, but I do deeply apologize.” Malleus brought [Name] back as he shook his head. “I know I’ve said it before, but I’ll say it as much as I need to. I hope you’ll understand soon enough.”

“Maybe.” [Name] found himself blurring out–why did he do that?! Don't show him mercy!--giving Malleus a sideways glance. “It'll take much more than grovelling to make me forgive you.”

Malleus slowly nodded, his handsome features illuminated by the firelight as they walked. He then spoke with a certain tone of determination, looking forward. “Then I’ll do what it takes.”

And [Name] knew that Malleus was telling the truth.