Summary: Princess Stella invites Brandon to Solaria for one incredible night full of festivities, but things don't go as planned and this night is quickly turning into a nightmare.
Concept: A short story based on Brandon and Stella. My story, "White" is doing so well that it has inspired me to write more. This is the longest chapter I've ever written, surpassing my previous holder, "Damned" in terms of pages. This short story is something I hope you'll enjoy reading. Rated T for some violence and swearing. Don't get turned off by the OC's, they're just here for antagonistic purposes. Oh, and it you need a setting it takes place sometime during season two.
In this story, I want to explore the relationship between Brandon and Stella; NOT in their feelings toward one another but rather how their characters reflect the type of person the other has fallen in love with. These people are from two different worlds, both literally and figuratively, so how can their relationship possibly work? Here is a glimpse into their respective beings.
Disclaimer: If I owned Winx, there would be a fourth season. There! I said it!
Reviews: Love it, hate it. It's up to you. Just be clean and respectful, the same treatment you'd expect from me.
Solaria, Kingdom of Splendors. For centuries this exotic realm has prospered despite the rigorous infighting between its diverse peoples. The monarchy was established to put an end to the wars, but that didn't mean there was no longer dissent within the ranks. Assassinations were common in the early years of the monarchy, as were various attempts that almost drew the kingdom into civil war; but an alliance of the two most powerful factions, the kingdoms of the Sun and the Moon, saw and end to those days by marrying a prince and a princess from both sides and that was the beginning of the Royal Family which as ruled Solaria to this day.
Princess Stella, heir to the throne of Solaria, is descended from this royal line. While it is common for children of the Moon and Sun to have powers from both bloodlines, Stella's abilities derive entirely from the Sun. This unfortunately has led to strife within the House of Moon and most particularly with Queen Tranquiless, Stella's mother. While her blood ran through her daughter's veins, Stella's lack of lunar powers caused a rift to develop between them. At the behest of her House, Tranquiless has returned to her homeland and severed her marriage with King Radius. In secret, she had quarreled with her former husband about how to rule the kingdom. Radius was liberal, Tranquiless was conservative. Their differing views drove them apart and they divorced.
This was kept secret from Princess Stella; the lady being told it was only marital problems and nothing else. But as she tries to make peace with their separation, Solaria is going through some troubling times. Unknown to her, there are powers at work that seek to change things in Solaria which they view as a Sun-dominated realm. Only time will tell whether this wondrous kingdom will survive until her coronation; if it she even gets that far.
The Princess and the Pauper
When Stella invited Brandon to Solaria the day before the specialist had been undergoing a rigorous training program. His cell phone rang out in the middle of class; a freshman mistake, but Brandon had been running late and as such completely forgot to turn the damned thing off. Codatorta was none too pleased with the interruption and stopped the class so that he could reprimand the fool who forgot to turn off his wretched cell phone. That fool was Brandon and when he admitted it Codatorta went over to his personal belongings, took out the phone and answered it.
Brandon could still recall his reaction as he spoke to the person on the other end. It was Stella, the Princess of Solaria and Brandon's girlfriend. Codatorta mockingly greeted the girl, explaining that Brandon was training at the moment but would stop what he was doing just for her because she wanted to speak with her "snookums." He actually said SNOOKUMS in front of the whole class. Handing the phone to Brandon, amid the snicker and taunts of his fellow students, Brandon spoke to Stella who apologized for disturbing him. "I hope I didn't get you into any trouble." She said.
"No, no." Brandon began. "Just provided my friends with ample ammunition for a future verbal bashing, is all. They thank you for it."
"Glad I could help." Had she known he was being sarcastic he could not tell. "So listen, snookums…"
Brandon could feel his face reddening with each passing second. Codatorta and the other students were watching him. Riven, the sweet and dear friend that he was, led the pack in a chorus of jeerful taunts which Codatorta allowed just to emphasize the lesson. This break in discipline ended soon after as the combat instructor ordered the class to get in line before turning his full and awful attention toward Brandon who looked ridiculous standing rigid while holding a cell phone in his right hand. "Uh…Stell,"
Codatorta took the phone and spoke for him. "I'm sorry, Miss Princess, but your snookums has to be leaving now. He has a very important date to keep with the griffon's cage this very moment. Yes…of course…I'll be sure to inform him about your missing lip gloss. Yes, I will tell him to check his pants. His underwear drawer as well, yes."
Gods kill me now…
"My pleasure, dear. Goodbye." He hung up.
The boys, try as they might, could not help but chuckle. Riven's smirk was the greatest and he spared one quick glance at Brandon. Out of the corner of his eye Brandon could just make out the look in his friend's face which told him, "I'm gonna get mileage out of this one."
Where's a witch invasion when you need it?
Codatorta stepped up to him, towering over the young specialist by a good foot and a half. With a gesture he placed the cell phone in Brandon's hand and took a step back. "Brandon, please be kind to report to the griffon's cage in ten minutes. Ol' Bessy has missed your time together. I'm sure you two would love to get re-acquainted. Am I right?"
"Yes, sir." Brandon sighed.
"Alright! Partner up. If I don't see you pushing each other you'll be pushing floor." At his command the class split up and divided into pairs for sparring.
Now is when Brandon shut off his phone. "Hey, Brandon." Prince Skye came up to him with a friendly pat on the shoulder. "Don't worry about it. The guys will forget about this in a couple days."
"Don't bet on it." Riven who had been standing nearby said.
"If Riven let's them that is."
Brandon shook his head. "Dude, it's okay. Stella just gave me some great news."
"What about?"
After telling him, Skye's face lit up. "You're kidding."
"Nope."
"That is great news. Wish I could say the same but I promised Bishop I'd help him in javelin practice tomorrow."
"Good thing I didn't plan anything for the weekend. I just wish she called at a better time."
"Speaking of which." Riven tripped his opponent and turned to face them. "Shouldn't you get going, snookums?"
"Bite me, Riven." Brandon turned to Skye. "Talk to you later, bro."
That was yesterday afternoon.
Skye had offered to take him to Solaria via Red Fountain's inter-realm starcraft. This was a major favor since Skye was using up his flight hours to help him out. Normally the school didn't allow the use of its ships unless the matter involved hero business, but being the best pilot at Red Fountain with a spotless record allowed the prince of Eraklyon a few perks.
"I appreciate this, Skye."
"Come on. The least I can do is drive you to your first real date with your main squeeze. Besides, any chance I get to pilot one of these babies isn't something I'd pass on."
"A date? You know, I never really thought about it."
"Boy. Girl. Together. Alone. Pretty much self-explanatory."
"What I mean is…Stella's different, you know?"
"Believe me I know. When I'm around Bloom I can't even think straight. It's like when we're together nothing else matters."
"That's exactly it." Brandon regarded his friend with a newfound respect. "This whole love thing is second nature to you isn't it?"
"Not necessarily. Being a prince I had to court many young women and learned the finer points of male-female interaction. It's a professional skill, really, but it doesn't prepare you for the real thing."
"When you meet that special someone," He continued. "Who likes you for who you are…well, there's nothing like it."
"I'll say. When Stella found out I wasn't really a prince I thought she'd dump me."
"She's unique, Brandon. Most princesses are so stuck up they won't even look at you unless you're wearing a crown. Believe me I know."
Their ship passed through a nebula at this moment. Skye took the time to look his friend over. "You look like you're ready for a night out on the town. I can't remember the last time you dressed so well."
And dressed well Brandon was. He wore dress shoes, black and shined to an eye-watering sheen with no laces. His slacks were beige with a nice red-brown belt holding them up. The belt had a fancy golden emblem on the front, an eagle holding a shield with a spear in its beak, the symbol of the Eraklyonite Royal Guard.
He had on a nice long-sleeved brown shirt with slight indentations along the texture. His hair was combed, he was clean-shaven; no doubt about it, Brandon was dressed to kill!
"I aim to please."
"I don't think Stella will be disappointed."
"Careful, bro. If I wasn't sure I'd think you were hitting on me."
"You're not my type. Too ugly."
"Ouch."
"Now Bloom on the other hand,"
"Save it." Brandon laughed. "I know where this is going."
"What do you mean?"
"Long legs, flowing red hair, smooth white skin, big blue eyes…"
"Brandon…"
"Come on, man, we're guys. I know the deal. Don't get me wrong, I like Stella for a lot more than her looks."
"But," Skye pressed."
"Some things are just instinct."
"So you check out her butt every now and then?"
"You know it."
"Great. Glad I'm not the only one."
Brandon looked at him.
Gasping, "I mean with Bloom! Not that Stella's isn't,"
The look became harder.
"I don't mean…whoa…I'm just gonna pilot the ship now." He sank into his chair a little bit.
Then Brandon broke into laughter. "You're lucky I'm not Riven, bro." He sat back and watched the nebula through the main screen. It was an exotic shade of purple. Maybe he'd bring Stella back here one day. Perfect place for a romantic interlude.
They broke free of the nebula and in mere moments the planet Solaria loomed before them. The system's sun was just waning over the horizon. Its brilliant sparkle reminded Brandon of Stella's perfectly golden eyes.
"Coming in for a landing." Skye alerted the ground control and after receiving landing clearance put the ship in a steady descent. The capital city was booming with activity even as the light faded. This was no ordinary night for the citizens of Solaria were celebrating the Solar Solstice Festival which kicked off in the evening. Brandon could hardly contain himself as the royal palace of Solaria came into view.
With expert skill, Prince Skye landed the Red Fountain vessel onto the landing platform with barely a tremor. "Well, we're here."
"Thanks a lot, Skye." Releasing his belt, Brandon stood up and went for the exit.
"I'll swing by at o-one-hundred hours to pick you up. That should give you enough time to take in the sights, sounds and," He clicked his tongue. "Pleasures."
Brandon turned to him as the ramp touched the floor. "Gotcha."
"Just be sure not to be late. Even on the weekend we're not supposed to keep the ship out beyond o-two-hundred. Codatorta's been on the warpath ever since Riven crashed his ship on that jungle planet."
"Don't worry. I'll be here."
"Tell Stella I said hello." Skye waited until he was on the ground before retracting the ramp and closing the hatch. Lifting off, he turned the ship around to get one last look at his friend and waved goodbye.
"Take care, bro." Brandon waved in return.
The ship blasted off and in seconds was back in outer space.
"Brandon, I presume?" asked a haughty rather annoyingly sounding voice.
The specialist turned to see a tall man wearing royal garbs. He was thin, kind of gangly and yet carried himself with the step of a man with utmost confidence. He had thin, peach colored hair wrapped into a short ponytail behind his head. His eyes were thin, actually squinting despite the lack of sunlight and he liked to blink a lot. From what Brandon could tell his eyes were a light green, possibly lime, with very dark pupils. He appeared young, no more than fives years older than Brandon with a rigid stance that would make Codatorta proud. He wore a splendid burgundy jacket that looked very expensive with white cuffs at the sleeves, over a white buttoned shirt. His pants were also red, but more crimson leading down to a pair of very fancy black shoes with golden straps.
He looked like something out of those paintings from a long time ago. But he had to remind himself that in some kingdoms this attire was still very much in style. He just never thought Solaria to be one of them.
"That's me." He walked up to the aristocratic man and extended a friendly hand. "Nice to me you."
The feeling, it seemed, was not mutual for the man did not return the gesture.
"Princess Stella awaits your arrival in the promenade. Please, follow me." With that, he turned and walked away.
Brandon checked his hand to make sure it wasn't sweaty or dirty or anything else. These royals had a knack for spotting things like that. Hell, they could spot a pencil stain on a black shirt from ten paces away. One could not help but be amazed at that kind of observance. His experiences with Skye taught him that. The prince would often check Brandon over before they attended any royal gatherings and always seemed to find that one minor blemish that for some reason remained invisible to his naked eye.
Seeing nothing out of the ordinary, Brandon shrugged and began to follow the escort.
They passed dozens of servants putting up decorations for the Solstice Festival. The halls were lined with banners and placards and a variety of other ceremonial standards. Braziers lit up the interior of the palace as during the festival all forms of modern technology were put aside in favor of a more traditional setting. Servants sped by with trays full of the finest delicacies. Attendants laid out the rugs and polished every picture frame, column, doorknob, pillar and doorway that Brandon could lay eyes on. Soldiers of Solaria donned ceremonial armor, beautifully crafted gold steel complete with red-jeweled helmets; all of whom bore finely-crafted halberds as they stood at attention. Shouts came from down the hall as a host of servants sped past their little entourage carrying what appeared to be several hand-made dresses and scented oil.
The whole place was a complete madhouse. It reminded Brandon of the grand balls the king of Eraklyon held back home. How he loved it!
His escort took him up a flight of stairs, nearly being run over by handmaidens in the process—just Brandon, not the aristocrat—which lead to the palace's top floor. It was here that many of the wealthier members of the palace resided and Brandon could not help but gawk at some of the outlandish clothing he saw.
"Do not stare." His escort ordered as if having eyes at the back of his head.
Brandon complied despite the harshness of the command. He was an easy going guy and it took a great deal to get him riled up. He just shrugged off bad attitudes and focused on the positive, it's how he maintains his sunny disposition. Riven was his mirror opposite in that aspect. Funny he should be thinking of him at this moment. Guess it had to do with his escort. The guy was rude and downright unfriendly. Just like Riven.
Why is it some guys just love being jerks? He asked himself.
His escort opened up a door that led to the promenade, an open-air walkway that stood outside the palace. It was there that an irate, blonde-haired fairy was pacing back and forth while arguing with someone on her cellular phone. "I don't care how much of an inconvenience it is for you. You should of thought of that before waiting the day before to go get my pumps. Now either they're on my doorstep before the evening is through or you can find yourself another job!" She angrily shut it off.
Stella was wearing a red blouse with no sleeves with a zipper down the back. She wore form-fitting green pants pulled up at the bottom to show off her pretty ankles. Naturally, she had on open-toed sandals. Her hair was as illustrious as always and her eyes were always sparkly. It brought up the picture of the Solarian sun as it disappeared behind the planet. Like twin stars, they lit up her face.
"Brandon!" she rushed into his arms.
"What's up, Stell?"
She pulled away. "When did you get here?"
"Few minutes ago. Skye dropped me off."
"That was nice of him."
"Yeah."
"Ah-hem." The escort grunted. "Begging her majesty's pardon but isn't it about time you readied yourself for the Solstice?"
"Ooh, right." She looked at Brandon. "I have to get dressed now, sweetie. Make yourself at home, alright?"
It was when she was about to go back inside that Brandon remembered he had wanted to give her something. "Stella, wait."
The escort's hand reached out and blocked his pursuit. "The princess is about to get dressed. In all modesty I believe it best you remain here."
Stella looked at Brandon from behind the escort. "What is it?" she asked him.
He looked from her to his guide and decided it was not the best time. "I'll tell you later."
"Okay. Be right back."
As Stella left, Brandon went over to the railing overlooking the palace grounds. It was a beautiful night for a festival and he could not wait to spend it with the girl of his dreams. He reached inside his pocket to feel the item he meant to give to her. Fumbling it in his pocket, Brandon sighed and waited, thinking for the hundredth time how he wanted to explain this to her and praying the words would not come out wrong.
Brandon waited as patiently as any dutiful boyfriend would for his woman. He played with the thought that Stella was making herself look beautiful for him, but he brushed it aside as soon as it came up. The mere notion made her sound one-dimensional. From the very first time he had met her, Brandon found Stella to be a very confidant and independent young woman who looked good for herself and nobody else. A day didn't go by when she didn't present herself as fashionable as possible and one could only wonder if she ever had a bad hair day in her life.
Brandon had heard stories. Woman and bad hair days. Not a good time to be in the same room with one.
But as male-centered as it sounded he just loved being around her. Her scent, her smell, her smile, her eyes, her butt…whoa! Where'd that come from? Brandon looked around as if someone had just called his name. Her butt? Then he thought about it. She did have a nice butt and he'd be a fool not to admit it to himself. He'd often find himself staring at it when he thought she wasn't looking. It was so round and firm…
Damn, I've been hanging around Skye too long.
One conversation about Stella's butt and all of a sudden that's all he could think of.
Come to think of it, Skye did mention Bloom's butt. He wondered how long he would stare at hers whenever she turned around. Ten seconds? Maybe fifteen? Did she ever catch him looking at it? What did she say? What did he say? Bloom was well-endowed. Not as well as say Flora or Stella or Layla but…heh-heh…that Layla.
Stop that!
His eyes darted around like a spotlight of accusation had just landed on him. Over by the doorway, his guide watched him bemused. This was the second time he saw Brandon look around all nervous. What was going through that pauper's head, he wondered?
Had he known, Brandon may very well have wound up in the royal dungeon for his impure thoughts. Was it a crime in Solaria? Probably not. But still a man was a man. Surely even the king found his mind wandering from time to time. Brandon could not be punished for what he was, could he?
Of course not. Stella had a very nice butt. And it was his butt now. Well not yet but someday. Eventually. Maybe. Hopefully…
Does Stella ever think of my butt?
He placed a hand on his rump as if making a comparison with hers. Guys were built differently which had him thinking how do girls rate butts? With guys it was all about the rump. The plumper the better. So what did girls look for? It had to be masculine so something—rigid? Stern? Strong? Powerfully stocked? Yeah, that sounded about right. Girls admired strength in a man so the butt would be no exception.
Brandon felt one of his cheeks testing the thickness that would melt the heart of any feral young woman he happened to pass by. Not bad, he thought. He touched the other one. Hey, I'm packing.
The he remembered he wasn't alone.
Pausing, Brandon looked over at the escort whose eyes stared at him dumfounded. It was only then he realized he still had both hands on his rear end and withdrew them as quickly as if they had just burst into flame. Not knowing what to do, Brandon searched for someplace to hide, a particularly deep ditch or bottomless pit would do just fine but he found none so he turned away, putting his back to the man who was still shaking his head in disbelief.
Damn! He mentally cried, placing both hands in his pockets. He could feel his face reddening up and desperately looked for something to draw his attention. Okay, okay. He's the only one that saw you so calm down and just look away. Hm. See some guards on patrol. That's good. The fountains are up and running. How nice. I think I see a caterer picking up some dog's poop, well that's just plain wrong. Ooh, look! Handmaidens. They look so nice in their flowing pink gowns. Just look how they hug their hips and caress their firm, round………………dammit, there you go again!
"No butts. No butts."
"Begging your pardon, sir." His one-man entourage began to say. "Would you like a spot of tea while you await the princess' return?"
"Uh…sure…why not?"
He stepped back, fetched a handmaiden who had been standing nearby and ordered her to retrieve something to calm the obviously disturbed boy. The girl returned with a tray bearing a small white glass and a teacup. She set it on the table before politely pouring it for him and begged him to make himself comfortable. He thanked the girl with a smile, had a seat and as she left he…damn his male hormones…looked…, "No butts, Brandon! No butts!" He said and gulped down the hot beverage so fast his tongue almost vacated his mouth.
Time passed and the princess did indeed return. "Sorry I kept you waiting, Brandon." He heard her say from behind the escort.
Brandon was already on his fifth cup, taking care to only sip the tea this time—for which his tongue was very grateful – and stood up to greet her. Only to almost loose his footing once his eyes fell upon the most stunning creature he had ever seen.
It was an old dress to be sure but damned if it did not stop his heart. In honor of the solstice, Stella adorned a gown the color of golden harvest. It didn't sparkle as so many modern outfits did, but she shined nonetheless. So similar was it to her own complexion that the two seemed as one with only a gentle crease or fluttering hems here and there reminding Brandon that she was wearing anything at all. The dress was sleeveless, exposing her slender shoulders and her delicate arms bore a gold bracelet each. Most striking of all was her long blonde hair slung over one shoulder in an elaborate multi-knotted ponytail. She wore orange lipstick, bearing the perfect smile. Then there were the eyes.
Like a siren of legend, Stella had captured his mind, body and soul all in one sitting.
Smiling, Stella did a full turnaround so that he could take in the whole dress. "Do you like it?"
"Oh yeah." He quickly composed himself. "I mean, yes. I think it's wonderful."
Brandon's royal escort stepped up beside Stella to address him. "Would the gentleman prefer to step into more, ahem, applicable attire for the night's festivities?"
"Oh, Renault, he looks just fine as he is." Stella, in very un-princess-like manner, rushed over to Brandon and grabbed his arm. "You look great, snookums."
"Thanks."
Renault raised an eyebrow, not totally agreeing with the princess. He could not even begin to understand what she saw in the lad. When news had reached the palace about Stella's new "boyfriend" the entire court was aghast. He was a bodyguard, a squire no less. To think their royal highness would sully herself and the family name by associating with his kind. It was that Alfea School. The headmistress had yet to instill proper lady etiquette in her students and this was the result. The queen was right in suggesting they send her to the prestigious Beta Academy but Princess Stella wanted to go to Alfea and what the king's daughter wanted she received.
He kept those musings to himself for though Solaria was an enlightened kingdom there were still punishments for undermining the king's decisions, particularly when it came to his daughter.
"Indeed." Was all he said. "Will the princess require my services?"
"Nope. We're good."
That slang. She spoke like a commoner.
"Very good." Renault bowed and took his leave closing the doors behind him.
"Nice guy." Brandon said.
"You think so? I always thought he was too uptight." She led him over to the balcony where they had a view of the surrounding forests and the city far beyond. Few lights shone as most forms of technology were turned off in honor of this ancient festival. Everyone and everything about this event spoke tradition and Brandon suddenly felt very out of place indeed.
"Maybe I should take him up on his offer."
"What the clothes? Pff." She scoffed. "You're fine. Trust me, not everyone dresses like an elf to these things."
"But wouldn't it be disrespectful?"
"Honey, I'm the princess. Just stick next to me and everything will be fine."
"I kind of stand out, Stella."
"So everyone will see what a good-looking guy my Brandon is."
"I don't think it's me they'll be looking at."
"Oh, you're sweet." She pecked him on the cheek and he blushed. "I'm so glad you could come. This wouldn't be fun without you."
"Really?"
"These things are such a bore. All that old music and medieval dancing just puts me to sleep. Everyone talks funny and we eat weird food from ages long past. Then the chroniclers begin telling stories about ancient legends and battles and kings and dragons to which the crowd responds with a, 'hazzah' every time he reaches a climatic point in the story. Then we sit down on the floor around small campfires and talk history and folklore before some jester comes by telling jokes that were funny a thousand years ago…"
Brandon hung on her every word. "…and then there's a joust where nobles,"
"Joust?"
"Yeah. It's when two guys use mounts to charge at each other from across the field,"
"Nice." He muttered.
"What?"
Call him old-fashioned but Brandon loved traditional combat. In fact, everything about this festival intrigued him. He used to dream about the old stories he read about in books. Now he had a chance to live it. "You know I used to joust back at home."
"Uh-huh." She rolled her eyes. "Try not to have too much fun at the party, hon. You fit in too well and people may forget you are a guest of her royal highness."
"I'll try to contain myself." He lied. This party was going to be off the hook. "Oh, by the way." He reached into his pocket.
The door opened and Wanda, the official palace messenger of Solaria, appeared. The blonde-haired girl wore an outfit befitting the Solstice ceremony though it was in no way near as striking as Stella's. She bowed accordingly before addressing her princess. "Princess Stella, your father awaits your presence in the courtyard. The festivities are about to begin."
Stella pretended to beam with excitement and told Wanda she and her consort will be arriving shortly. Brandon didn't much like the title "consort" as it suggested something truly intimate. But this was her realm and Stella knew what she was doing. At least, he hoped she did. He would hate to spark an inter-realm incident between Solaria and Eraklyon over something as trivial as not showing up at the party in the wrong clothes. For all he did know, they weren't allowed to wear shoes.
He seriously considered finding Renault so that he could take him up on his offer to dress for the occasion but Stella had other plans. "Come on." She grabbed his arm and they were on their way.
King Radius was as his name implied. He was a shining king, tall, proud, noble and extremely refined. Under his benevolent rule, Solaria had prospered and was one of the richest kingdoms in all the realms. Just to be in his presence one could feel the power radiating from this man. He was always in a crowd because the crowd followed him. Even in his ancient kingly attire he was no less majestic. Nobles and monarchs parted before him and those that did not follow whispered in awe at his passing.
Yes he was truly a sight to behold.
As was Princess Stella when she arrived with…oh dear…is that him?
Two hundred pairs of eyes suddenly fell on the brown-haired youth beside the lovely princess. In his life, Brandon had been in many crowds, had attended many parties. But never had he felt as self-conscious as he did in that moment; arm-in-arm with Stella, standing in a vast courtyard filled with hundreds of people all who abruptly ceased what they were doing to stare at the couple.
He leaned close to Stella so that only she would be able to hear over the deafening silence. "I don't think they like me." When he spoke it was through a forced smile and grit teeth. His walk became stiff as if on stilts. It was rather comical to watch; like the princess being escorted by a mindless automaton.
King Radius broke the silence once he saw his daughter. "Stella!"
"Daddy!"
"Daddy?" Brandon mimicked. This was the first time he had ever met the King of Solaria and boy did he feel small.
Father and daughter embraced. "You look wonderful my dear." Said the king once they parted.
"Thanks, daddy."
He looked over her head. "Stella, who is this?"
"This," she pulled Brandon in closer to meet her father. "Is Brandon. He's the boy I told you about. The Red Fountain specialist."
"Brandon, yes." He looked him over.
He doesn't look happy to see me.
The king's gaze froze him in place and he could not move. Stella saw this and nudged him with her elbow. "Say hello."
"H-hello." He stuttered, bowing as he did so. "Your majesty."
Stella sighed. "He's shy."
"I thought he'd be taller from the way you described him."
"Uh…sorry?" Brandon innocently asked, slowly looking up.
"Quite timid for a hero."
"Hero in training. He's still a novice."
Damn, Stella, little support here.
"He's really good, though. I've seen him tangle with monsters and wrangle dragons. He even helped my friends and I to save the universe from the forces of evil. You should see him fight. He's the best swordsman at Red Fountain."
Thanks, Stell.
"I see." Said the King. "No stranger to the blade, then?"
"Not this guy."
"Has he defeated foes in single combat?"
"You mean like a duel?"
"Yes."
"Well not that I know of. His friends Skye and Riven pretty much mop the floor with him during their training sessions."
That's the last time I ever let Riven take my messages!
"But he's still one of the best in his class."
"Hm." Radius studied Brandon who was still bowing. "Rise, my boy." He obeyed. The King looked him square in the eye and asked, "Do you plan on becoming a knight when you graduate from the academy?"
"Yes, your highness."
"May I ask, what drew you to becoming one in the first place?"
"It's a noble profession, your majesty." He answered truthfully. "I've admired knights since I was a boy and have been inspired by their tales of heroics and bravery. When I got the chance to attend Red Fountain nothing could stop me. I've learned so much there and I know when I am knighted it will be the happiest moment of my life."
"Next to meeting me, of course." Stella added.
Brandon nodded.
Radius heard his answer and a big smile crossed his face. "Very good. I'm sure you'll make an excellent knight one day. Perhaps, if you wouldn't mind, you can give us a demonstration of your battle techniques in a joust."
"I'd be honored, your majesty."
"Wonderful." The king suddenly realized that all activity had stopped when he addressed the youth. "Come now! Music! Dance! Let the Festival of the Solar Solstice begin!"
At once the entire crowd let up a cheer and the party was on.
Brandon was relieved now that the king had accepted him. Nobody could question his being here now. His mood brightened and he turned to Stella. "See. Everything turned out alright." She said.
"So far, so good."
"Excuse me."
Both turned to see a pretty young noblewoman dressed in a red gown. She had light brown hair pulled into a bun above her head. Her eyes were forest green, quite beautiful and yet the manner in which she looked at them was a bit disturbing. But her mannerisms were intact as shown when she curtsied. "Greetings, Princess Stella. I am the Lady Ophelia from the Corona province. We've met once before during your thirteenth birthday. I gave you a golden tiara fit with an emerald."
The princess recalled one such gift and the pretty young girl who gave it to her. "Oh yeah. I remember you. You had braces back then, didn't you?"
"Heh. The princess has a good memory." A tone in her voice revealed she was none too pleased with that little reminder. Ophelia ended her curtsy to face the princess and her boyfriend. She stared at the latter who was frozen in place by her sparkling green eyes. Only Stella's eyes ever made him tense up like this. It was more than just the beauty. Something about the intensity in them made Brandon think twice before making any sudden movements.
"Hello, Brandon." She said. "Welcome to our beautiful kingdom."
"Thank you, Lady Ophelia." He politely bowed and quickly turned to Stella with a look that asked, "Friend of yours?" Her eyes told him otherwise. Hm, guess she didn't like her present.
"I hear you're from Eraklyon, is that right?"
"Yes."
"Is it true you impersonated the prince during your first year in school?"
"Well…kind of, you see,"
"And the Prince of Eraklyon pretended to be a commoner?"
"Yeah."
"How dreadful."
"Well it wasn't so bad. Skye and I,"
"Skye? You mean the prince?"
"Uh-huh."
"He allows you to call him so informally?"
"Skye's my best friend."
"And the king allows this?"
Stella had heard enough. "Thank you for stopping by. Hope you enjoy the party. Try the punch." She shoved Brandon away. Ophelia watched them go with unfriendly eyes.
"What was that all about?" Brandon asked when they were out of range.
"Her family's the conservative type. They're not too pleased with the liberal direction my father is leading the kingdom. When he began making reforms, theirs was the loudest voice in protest and they even threatened to secede from Solaria if he carried them out. Fortunately my mother, who is a shrewd negotiator, managed to keep that from happening. But things haven't changed." She glanced at Ophelia who had already disappeared into the crowd. "You know that tiara she gave me at my birthday party was actually made of bronze covered in gold paint."
"So?"
"So?! Corona's one of the wealthiest regions of our kingdom. Their wares are sought out throughout the realms. The lords and ladies all done the finest jewelry, most of which is made from solid gold. Their family despises us so much that they insulted me by bringing a fake golden tiara."
"Least it had a nice emerald."
"Florescent glass. Damn thing broke the first time I dropped it."
"Oh…"
"Let's just forget about her. Far as I'm concerned she's just a political nuisance I'll have to deal with once I've taken the throne."
Though his best friend was a monarch, Brandon could not even begin to imagine the pressure and responsibilities that awaited Skye when he became the king. Now here he was with a girlfriend who would one day rule her own realm and inherit problems that made his own seem insignificant by comparison. They would one day hold the destiny of entire worlds in their hands with millions looking to them for guidance. All Brandon had to worry about was himself and the family he sought to build one day.
"You're so lucky, boo. You don't have to worry about politics or keeping the peace between your subjects. It's just you and your sword against the world." As if reading his mind, Stella was convinced that Brandon had the better part of the deal Life dealt them.
"A hero has his own challenges."
"Such as?"
"Like winning the heart of a beautiful princess."
"You're doing a good job so far."
"I aim to please." Taking her hand he kissed it.
"Tres bien."
As a lady of the House of Corona, Ophelia was duty-bound to attend the celebration at the royal palace. She paid her respects to the king, said all the right words, made all the proper gestures and rightly greeted the princess of Solaria. Now that that was out of the way she can begin moping on the sidelines.
Of all her obligations as a member of the royal court there was nothing she despised as much as being around the king and his spoiled offspring. Ophelia was a true princess of Solaria. She remained true to the ancient set of laws passed down by the monarchy since centuries passed. Tradition, it seemed, meant little to the current royal family and it pained the proud lady to see the kingdom of her mothers and fathers desecrated by the "open-minded" changes of King Radius and Princess Stella.
It was bad enough Stella consorted with commoners…now she was dating them!
She thanked the gods her mother, the Lady Cecilia, was no longer around to see what had become of Solaria. The duchess had passed away just before Ophelia's eleventh birthday. On her deathbed, she told Ophelia to keep to the ancient ways, making her promise to stand up for what made Solaria a great kingdom. King Radius may be too strong for her to challenge now, but one day he would step down so that his daughter may ascend the throne. She could handle Stella. Gods knew she did not know how to run a planet.
The Heavens knew the havoc that bumbling bimbo would generate once she has the crown. Blowing up a school lab was one thing; blowing up an entire city to create a new shade of pink was just up her alley.
Queen Stella. Bah! Now there were two words that did not belong together.
This was a joke. The Fates had seen it prudent to test her patience with each day. She had only met Stella once before but not a day went by when she didn't read about her, hear her name mentioned, or witness one of her handiworks on beloved Solaria. The peasants were losing respect for the royalty because of her actions! One wondered when open rebellion would set in and the people would cry out for democracy.
Like the common folk had any idea how to govern themselves. Preposterous. Preposterous!!!
"Lady Ophelia."
A deep and sultry male voice brought the lady out of her musings. It belonged to a rather dashing young nobleman with wavy blonde hair that flowed like a curtain around his head and neck. He had stunning emerald eyes, the color of the finest gemstones mined in the province of Corona which Ophelia most fancied. He had white skin, almost ivory, and a height indicating a man of Northern descent. His yellow vest and white under-shirt did little to hide the muscular physique within and when he bowed it was with the most grace Ophelia had ever witnessed.
"Lord Cathan." She said. One of Solaria's most eligible bachelors and among the finest duelists in all the realms. "A pleasure." She said and really meant it.
"The pleasure is all mine." Cathan arose and how he towered over the lady. "Forgive my intrusion but it seemed as if you are not quite taken with the festive mood of the gathering. May I inquire as to what is troubling you?" His speech suggested years of study among the finest of scholars.
The lady looked away; more to hide her blush from this most handsome of suitors than to shroud any indications of her woes. "It is…nothing." She could not speak to him of the princess. It was high treason to even think such musings let alone speak of them. This was most prudent among the nobility for such talk could lead to unrest and possibly war. Commoners never realized the fine line their leaders walked.
"Surely something troubles you. I may be able to relieve you of your burdens if you allowed it. Perhaps, over a drink?"
She had accepted before he even extended his hand to her. "That would be appreciated, thank you."
"Your presence is all the thanks I need."
They walked to a table near one of the great fountains where a tender poured them some of the finest wine. Technically, Ophelia was still underage but tonight saw many of the restrictions lifted. Cathan on the other hand was well within his rights to request wine and what gentleman would not offer such splendid nectar to a beautiful lady?
She took the offered cup, smelled it first as was customary, and then had a sip. "It is lovely."
"From the finest vineyards in Solaria." Cathan said as he escorted Ophelia to a seat right by the fountain. "Now what troubles such a fine lady of the court?"
She felt she could trust him. Lord Cathan was known to be an honorable man who held to many of the ancient beliefs of their people. She had heard that like herself he was none too pleased with the way things were going. Perhaps in him she would find a soul akin to her own. "I fear for the future of our kingdom."
"How so?"
"It is the princess and her father, the king. Solaria is in danger of losing its identity and the Royal Family appears to be at the center of it."
"Go on."
Taking another sip, Ophelia continued. "The princess, she poisons her father's ear with talk of greater freedom for the peasants. She tears down many of our ancient institutions and replaces them with malls, video arcades and night clubs."
"Detestable." Cathan spat and Ophelia was shocked at his outburst. She'd known him to be an upfront man but to so openly agree with her about something so controversial was surprising and relieving at the same time.
"Then you feel the same way?" She dared to ask.
"I grieve for Solaria. When I see what is happening to our once proud people I feel betrayed by the monarchy I've sworn to protect. Children are no longer taught to respect the nobility. The concepts of chivalry and honor are not seen as the foundations of our society. Foreigners poison us with alien concepts while our borders have grown so weak that ogres and trolls pass through them daily. Once we had the finest army in the realm, now our soldiers are more concerned with polishing their armor then their fighting skills. How can we expect to defend ourselves from our enemies when those who are meant to protect us fail to uphold the martial ways of our ancestors?"
The Lady Ophelia beamed. "Then you understand."
"I do. More than I care to admit. But I cannot deny my distress over the fate of our beloved Solaria."
"A fate which will be out of our hands once the princess assumes the throne."
Cathan's look sent shivers through Ophelia. It was an inquisitive gaze, one that attempted to read her much like one would study a passage in a book that forced you to read between the lines. Ophelia has spoken to him but now Cathan wanted to truly understand her; to read between the lines of this most attractive book. "You and I are two of a kind, my lady."
"And I know your strength will prove instrumental in saving our kingdom one day, Lord Cathan. But I fear that day has not yet come."
"Your pardon?"
"King Radius himself has welcomed the pauper the princess has taken as her suitor. There is nothing we can do to challenge this outrage. It seems the princess had struck another blow to the pride of Solaria with her despicable display of affection for this man."
Cathan looked the crowd over for the boy known as Brandon. It wasn't difficult to spot that mop of unruly brown hair, try as he might to pretty it up, in the sea of properly attired men and women. He and Princess Stella were conversing with members of the Royal Court. It was disgusting to watch. They spoke to him as an equal. As an EQUAL!!!
"He is an obstacle."
"What do you mean?"
Cathan smiled at her. "As you say, the king has welcomed him to the court. Chivalry demands we obey his decision."
Ophelia's face saddened.
"However," his strong fingers raised her chin. "Honor demands he earn that privilege."
"I…I don't understand."
Cathan knelt before her and kissed her hand. His green eyes mimicked her own in beauty and splendor. "For you and for all of Solaria."
Princess Stella could not believe how well Brandon fitted in with the crowd. But then again, she should not be surprised. He was charming and smart, not to mention very handsome; always a plus in her book. Brandon did grow up around royalty. His best friend was the prince of Eraklyon and who knew how many events such as this he had attended. Brandon was probably as much at home with the royals as he was out on the battlefield or traveling the deepest reaches of space.
He was also cultured. Not as much as Skye, she knew, but still he had enough sense to know how to speak to someone based on their social status. Frankly, Stella didn't believe status had anything to do with how people should treat one another, but unlike her Brandon had something to prove and so he put on his best "blue-blood" face and spoke of history, music, art and even poetry.
He quoted stanzas from one of a duchess' favorite poems and how she swooned over him. He has them eating out of his hands. Stella barely said anything at all, which was rare for her as any of her friends would attest to. She just smiled and hung around Brandon while he delighted the guests with stories of his training at Red Fountain. She even learned things about his past that he never told her before. Or could it be he was just making that up? Did he really battle a Redwood Dragon using only a shield and a broken-off sword? Like who cared? They were eating it up.
"It was a really tough fight. Whoever said giants leave you alone so long as you don't bother them obviously never encountered one during its mating season. To think we actually went through the trouble of saving it from plummeting off a cliff and what thanks did we get? A giant club knocked our ships from beneath us and he tried to stomp us to death. I tell you, no other team of specialists at Red Fountain are more wary around the beasts than mine. In fact, we've had more encounters with giants than any other team in the school's history."
"And what are your companions like?" Asked a middle-aged baron with a blue beard and balding head.
"Prince Skye is our leader. He's the heir to the throne in Eraklyon, as I've said before. He's very brave and is always willing to help out those in need. Timmy is our resident genius. Best mechanic in the school and no one knows his way around a computer like him, except maybe his girlfriend. Anyway, the last one is Riven and he's, well…gruff."
"Gruff?" A young woman in a pink dress said. "Is he a dwarf?"
"No. But he acts like one. And has manners of a troll."
That made everyone laugh.
"Tell us of your battle against the three witches." A young man in the back said.
"Well what is there to say except,"
"We kicked their butts!" Stella exclaimed. All eyes turned to her but she didn't flinch. Being the princess she could get away with certain things and expressing herself was one of them. "With a little help from us Alfea girls."
"But weren't you scared?" Asked another listener.
Brandon smiled coyly and tilted his head to one side. "Not really. It was tough for a while but we knew we could handle them."
Barely. Stella thought. She didn't remember the battle as fondly as he made it sound. But boys did like to brag. Beating their chests as a gesture of their manhood. She had to admit they did play an important part in that fight, fending off the Army of Decay while Bloom and the rest of the Winx Club battled Icy, Darcy and Stormy. And since they did not have any magical powers, and managed to fight side by side with the witches and fairies, who was she to deny him or his fellows their props?
"The Trix were so full of themselves that they couldn't fathom they'd be defeated by an alliance of their enemies and former classmates. When it came down to it, we were just stronger and our bravery eventually proved their downfall."
"And yet they still managed to overtake two of the three school of magic without much of a fight."
The voice was powerful and yet soothing, much like a father's voice would sound to a young child. The crowd parted to admit a very tall, blonde-haired man with pale skin take center stage. Brandon noticed a startling similarity between him and Skye with the only major exception besides his height was the color of his eyes. It seemed that everyone else knew the man for a wave of awe-inspired whispers filled the air. Brandon turned to Stella who he found mesmerized by the approaching Adonis. "Cathan." She muttered in a voice bordering reverence.
"Who?"
Cathan stepped up to the pair and before anyone could say anything he made a sweeping bow, with one hand raised and the other on his stomach and introduced himself. "Lord Cathan, Duke of Serenity and member of the Royal House of the Moon." He stood up and even from three feet away he towered over Brandon and Stella. "An honor to see you again, princess."
"Ditto." Stella said and felt her heart palpitate looking into his eyes.
Cathan regarded the princess with respectable eyes though the look hardened when they fell on Brandon. While he was smiling, the duke did not seem all too pleased with this one. Brandon felt the air grow cold and could swear he saw his breath. Fighting back the chill, Brandon started to bow but Cathan extended his hand. "A pleasure to finally meet you, Brandon of Eraklyon."
"Oh…same here." Brandon took his hand. Perhaps it was the strength of his grasp or the fact that his hand was freezing, but either way he cringed when he did so. "P-pleasure's all m-mine." He stammered doing his best to hold himself together.
"Likewise." He released his hand, to Brandon's joy, and addressed the two of them. "May I say what a fine couple you two make. I do not recall seeing such a refined pair in all my days."
Stella perked up. "Thanks." She grabbed Brandon's arm with both hands. "I always knew we were made for each other."
"Indeed." Cathan looked at Brandon. Again with a cold stare and fake smile. "Tell me, son of Eraklyon, what titles do you hold back in your realm?"
"Titles?"
"Positions. Places of honor. Surely a warrior of your accomplishments must hold some standing with the throne?"
"Does best friend to the royal heir count?"
"Hm," Cathan thought. "Never heard of that one. Do you have an estate back on Eraklyon?"
"I live in the palace."
"But you have no land?"
"Plenty of dirt in the world for everyone. Don't you think?" The curl in Cathan's eyebrow told Brandon he did not.
"I see." Cathan began to pace around Brandon and Stella like an encircling predator. "So, you have no estate, no titles, no honorary position within the royal court, but your actions are admirable. I daresay I have never met a young man with so many deeds to his name and has yet to be given the proper respect that is due to all men of accomplishment." He stopped in front of Brandon, his side facing him, and turned his head to one side as if looking at something particularly odd. "Surely the king and queen of Eraklyon have heard of your exploits. I bet they plan to knight you as soon as you graduate."
"I didn't join Red Fountain to become famous." Brandon spoke a little defensively but kept his friendly exterior. "That's not what a hero does."
"A hero you say? Well," Cathan paced again. "Heroes have songs written about them. Poems and sonnets. Statues erected in their honor. At the very least word of their feats have reached the far reaches of the universe and their names are spoken in reverence. Tell me, Brandon of Eraklyon, has your name attained such veneration?"
Now Stella spoke up. "Forgive me, Lord Cathan, but Brandon is a true hero. He is the bravest person I have ever met; he's also kind, selfless and dutiful to the point where he doesn't even call me because he's on a very important mission and puts that before everything. I can't say I agree with that last part but he's still a hero to me."
"Indeed." Cathan smirked all the more. "What say you to that, Brandon? Surly you can speak for yourself. Are you a hero?"
"Hero…probably wasn't the right word." He admitted. "I am a specialist in training who dreams of one day becoming a knight."
"A knight, you say? Very impressive. Then your fighting skills must be quite profound."
"I know my way around a sword."
"Your weapon?"
"Broadsword."
"Broadsw…" Cathan stopped. He looked at the back of Brandon's head unbelievingly after hearing this. Then he chuckled. "Such a barbaric weapon. Fit only for cutting down trees."
"Many monsters would disagree with you, Lord Cathan." Brandon's voice held a hint of annoyance.
"And how many witches have you slain with this sword of yours?"
"That's it!" Stella turned to face Cathan head on. All the admiration in her face was gone and she was tired of having her boyfriend being interrogated. "Duke of Serenity, who are you to question my guy's bravery?"
"I am merely trying to discern whether he is a hero or not?"
"What does killing witches have to do with heroism?"
"He fights the forces of evil, does he not?"
"Not all witches are evil?"
"Really?" He looked at Brandon. "Is that why your friend bedded one?"
Now Brandon turned on him. "My friend was spelled."
"He consorted with the enemy."
"Riven's no traitor!"
"But did he not turn on you and your friends in Magix?"
"He was spelled!"
"Some would call that weakness."
"Knock it off!" Brandon growled.
Cathan stepped back and held up his hands as if accused of something he was innocent of. "I am merely making an observance."
"Well observe someplace else." Stella said. "Good evening, Lord Cathan." Her last statement was to signify the end of the conversation.
The duke bowed his head. "Forgive me if I have offended you."
"I said GOOD EVENING."
Cathan bowed. "Princess." He peeked up. "Brandon." With that, Cathan strode away with a big smile on his face.
Brandon clenched his fists as he watched the tall man go. The crowd looked at Brandon in a different light now, not so much admiring anymore as pitying. Cathan had brought up good points of what it meant to be a hero and while Brandon seemed like a good lad he had yet to achieve that status. Begging their leave, the guests parted leaving him with the princess.
"Don't sweat it, snookums."
"Jerk." He spat. "I hate guys like that."
"Just because you're royalty doesn't mean you have manners. That's something Bloom told me after we met Diaspro."
Brandon eased up. "She was right." He smiled again. "Come on. I need a drink to wash away the bad taste in my mouth."
Ophelia waited for Cathan to rejoin her by the fountain. He seemed content when the lady saw him and she inquired as to what happened between her and the new couple. "What has happened, my lord?"
"I've simply set the wheels in motion, dear lady."
"Wheels? I do not understand."
Taking her hands in his as he did before, Cathan looked deep into her eyes. "I have taken steps to ensure the future of our kingdom. Soon all will be well."
"It…will?"
"But of course. You needn't worry about Solaria any longer, Lady Ophelia." He leaned in so that only she would hear him. "I'll take care of everything."