Ｖａｌ'ｓ.ＳＡＭＰＬＥＳ - - DNP

You stalked me didnt you?

You cant run away from me!	35.3%	[ 12 ]
Nope. 'course not. /cough	17.6%	[ 6 ]
Just whoring around. >3	47.1%	[ 16 ]
Total Votes:			[ 34 ]

[Valentine W i t c h - -]

Alice allowed Break to support her when she stood. She had no strength nor energy left to argue, and they both knew she was as weak as she looked. She felt tired.. worn out, exhausted.. She didnt even have words to fight him with. She just wanted to lay down on a bed and rest.. sleep peacefully.

"Though before we return..."

"Wha--"

The girl gasped in surprise as her head turned sideways sharply with a sting on her cheek. What just.. For a moment, Alice's eyes focused on a blank spot as her brain tried to grasp what happened. It was so fast that she didnt have the time to react to it normally as she wouldve. Break just hit her, and she only stood there, transfixed, surprised, confused. Speechless, Alice could only lift a hand to cover her undoubtedly reddening cheek. It stung lightly, she knew he held back when he hit her-- after all, it wouldnt be the first time that he's hit her, and she sure knew the strength he had.

"That's for trying to kill me. Now I know what you are going to say, so don't bother...But I've risked my life for you quite a few times now Miss Black Rabbit...and that display revealed to me just how ungrateful you are. I think it's time you learn to fight your own battles because frankly now that we will be spending some time together, I'd rather not have to come rush to Miss Rabbit's rescue every second. Understand?"

For the first time since she could remember, Alice hung her head in shame. Ah, yes. It made sense for him to get mad. Wait-- did he? Half her mind demanded that his excuse was lame, that he deserved to die for kidnapping her, but half her mind agreed with him and understood the reasons behind his anger. Yes, he did kidnap her. Yes, he did put her life in danger. But none of them were entirely specifically his fault. He did save her when she couldnt protect herself, whether he only saved her because he needed her or because he wanted to simply save her, it didnt change the fact that he DID save her.

I should apologize.. I guess.

The thought resounded in her head but no words left her lips, and so she simply stood there, staring at the ground, not wanting to meet his gaze or even just look at his face. She didnt like feeling guilty, but right now, her conscience was bothering her.

With her hanging her head, she didnt see his frown disappear into the usual grin he had on his face. The next thing she knew was that she was stumbling after him as he helped her back to the doctor's house, a walk where she stayed silent the entire time.

Upon arriving back at the house where they were taken in by the doctor and Melanie, Alice found herself sinking into more guilt as they were met by Melanie's worried and concerned face. Self-consciously, Alice glanced down at her clothes only to find them covered in dirt. Automatically, she lifted a hand to her face and wiped at whatever possible dirt there was.

"..sorry. I said I'd go take a walk but I got lost and-- and I tripped.."

Alice blushed in embarrassment at her story. It sounded lame and stupid. She didnt sound like her usual haughty self and she wasnt sure she liked the change. Sometimes she didnt feel like herself anymore. Melanie however, decided not to give Alice a longer time to think about her or anything else as she politely took Alice from Break's hold.

"It's okay, come, you seem like you need a bath."

And Alice could only nod as Melanie took her back to her room, the one where she stayed in earlier.

[Valentine W i t c h - -]

"You really need to take care, Ms. Alice--"

"Alice."

"Well, Alice, you just got out of bed, maybe you'd consider just staying here to keep safe?"

"..yeah, perhaps."

Once in her room, Alice merely sat down on her bed as Melanie went to the bathroom to heat her some water. Alice didnt say a word. A bath didnt seem that bad at the moment, she needed to relax. When Melanie returned to her, Alice was surprised when the female took hold of the ribbon that held her coat in place. Surprised, she pulled away, seeing the equally surprised look on Melanie's face. Alice then later realized that Melanie took it for granted that she was too tired to even undress herself. Blushing, Alice shook her head and told the girl that she can do it herself. Nodding, Melanie only smiled understandingly and excused herself to grab some towels for Alice, perhaps some spare clothes seeing as Melanie took Alice's clothes to the laundry.

Alice doesnt usually have any problem standing naked there, after all she was alone, at most, Melanie would be the only one to come inside. The idea of Break knocking on her door didnt even enter her mind, he was mad at her, wasnt he? Therefore, he wouldnt have any business visiting her room. However, Alice did feel cold. Not really having any clothing item nearby, she decided to just take the bed covers to wrap herself with until Melanie returns with the toiletries she was to use in taking her bath.

She had just only grabbed the edge of her bedsheets when she heard the door click open. Alice turned around, thinking it was Melanie, but she only froze on spot when she saw who it was.

None other than Xerxes Break.

There was a few seconds of silence before it was broken by Break's apology. Only then did Alice snap back to reality with a high-pitched scream of surprise.

Hurriedly, Alice yanked fully at her bedsheets and sank to the floor, the bedsheets wrapped around her tiny form tightly. By then, Break had already taken off, the damage was done, he had already seen her naked from head to toe. That single mistake of Break walking into her room while she was naked made the rest of her thoughts about Break evaporate. Him kidnapping her, him being mad at her, him saving her, all of them became hugely insignificant to the fact that he saw her naked.

IM GOING TO KILL YOU XERXES BREAK!!

It was an inward scream, seeing as she didnt want to make a "scandal" in the doctor's house. However, her scream wasnt so silent since Melanie burst into the room a few minutes after Break left, a panicked expression present on her face.

"Alice?! What's wrong?"

"A-- a mouse.. I saw a mouse.."

It took a while for Alice to control her voice, but still her voice shook when she spoke, though it was more because of rage, though it seemed that Melanie took the shaking of her voice because of fear. Eitherway, Melanie chuckled and urged Alice into the bathroom for her bath. Alice didnt mind her help since she didnt think she'd be able to concentrate on her bath when only one thing is raging in her mind.

That clown is so dead.

[Valentine W i t c h - -]

It was quite a relaxing bath, enough that for several minutes, the thought of revenge against Break was gone from her mind. All she did was sit there in the tub, surrounded by warm water, as Melanie scrubbed her hair and massaged her shoulders. She didnt mind the attention, they were both girls anyway. Alice felt a bit guilty however at almost drowsing off while Melanie talked about random things. The most she could do was nod at times which seemed appropriate just so she would seem listening. If anything, Alice wanted to go straight to sleep after the bath.. but not without dinner.

Dinner however proved to be difficult when Melanie decided that Alice can be her temporary "younger sister". It was the same thing as when with Sharon. Alice wanted something simple and easy to work with, but alas, before she could even complain, Melanie had already given her the dress she was to wear.

Im sorry Alice! My clothes are too big for you so you'll have to settle with these!

That was what she was told, though Alice doubted it very much. Sure Melanie was a bit taller than she was, but that didnt mean her clothes would be too big for Alice. But Melanie wouldnt have it either way. The female was in her happy world as she forced the dress on Alice. It was a midnight blue dress, almost black in fact. The skirt wasnt as big as Sharon's or the one she wore at Barma's, but Alice didnt approve of the frills that made the skirt, nor was she comfortable about the bow at the back. Most of all, she didnt approve of the fact that the dress revealed her entire shoulders. After the embarrassing event that took place between her and Break earlier, Alice wasnt sure she wanted to show more unnecessary skin But could she say anything against it? No. Melanie turned a deaf ear on her. For some reason, the female was all for turning Alice into a life-sized doll.

And so Alice sat there with a pout on as Melanie proceeded to brush through her hair. Originally, Melanie wanted to pull Alice's hair up into two ponytails but Alice was able to refuse, perhaps because she already agreed with the dress but she had to let Melanie to brush her hair and return the two plaits that was always present in her hair. Alice had no idea how long she had to sit there until Melanie finished with her hair, but before Melanie finished brushing her hair, Alice was already fidgeting uncomfortably due to sitting for so long.

Alice wanted to jump in relief when Melanie said that she was done "fixing" her. Melanie on the other hand, smiled approvingly at Alice and excused herself to fix dinner, but not before telling Alice to stay in her room until she calls for her. It wasnt long after until Alice found herself alone once more. She tugged helplessly at her dress, pulling dress up then tugging it down. She paced around her room boredly several time, but immediately stopped when she caught sight of herself in the mirror on the wall in her room. Her eyes widened at her reflection.

For a second, there stood in the mirror, a reflection of a girl who looked like her with a smile as bright as the sun, a black cat cradled in her arms.

Alice blinked once, shocked, but that was all it took for the reflection to go away. It disappeared as fast as it appeared on the mirror, for a moment Alice even wondered if it was merely her imagination. Confused about what she just saw, Alice stepped closer into the mirror as she stared at herself. She only saw a familiar stranger. The girl had her face, her body frame, her hair, but Alice couldnt find herself in it. Instead she saw someone else in her reflection.

The girl had wide violet eyes. She wore a blue dress that seemed as old as history. Her face seemed innocent almost expectant. Blue strips of ribbon were weaved into her side plaits, making her look more childish than usual.

"..how.. nostalgic.."

Nostalgic?

A flash of light blinded her eyes and a scene played before her. She sat in a velvet chair within a circular room full of books and stuffed animals. And behind her stood a man who spoke of stories that Alice didnt know about. He told her of stories as he plaited her hair. The plaits of her hair were clumsily made, but Alice was happy just the same. She liked his touch, liked the sound of his voice..

Ja---

It looks good on you.

What..?

Alice..

Wait! Dont go!

Al...

"--ice! Alice!"

Alice jumped in surprise and opened her eyes, looking around in bewilderment. A dream? It took herself several seconds to realize that Melanie was knocking on her door, calling her down for dinner. Hurriedly, Alice opened the door and apologized for taking too long. However, Melanie only smiled as she urged her into the kitchen where Break was supposedly waiting already with the doctor.

"Dont worry about it Alice. Everything is perfect. Everything is going along just fine."

[Valentine W i t c h - -]

Tick Tock. O N E.

Tick Tock. T W O.

Tick Tock! T H R E E.



xxxxIt's time! It's time!
xxThe doors have opened wide!
Oh sea of faces, all of them veiled!



I am the one with the mask, but which, you ask.
I am the one with the mask, but which is the mask?

I am a prince, a future king.

I am an actor, a slave to his audience.

I am a noble, a man of expectations.



. . but above all I M P O R T A N T L Y . .



xxxxxI am but a mere boy,
C U R I O U S and W O N D E R I N G


O Mask! Which is the mask?
I mask my face with this piece of paper.
But who's to say my face alone is not a mask?
For a man who wears a lot of faces.
One might ask


Which is the REAL one?



Alas, Alas! These are questions I still cannot answer,
For tonight, this one night, I am allowed to wear a mask and yet still be myself.
A night of limitless possibilities adorned in extravagant lies.


O Mother, O Father!
Where is your son?
He is there among the crowd,
but whose mask is his?


They turn, and turn, and turn.________________________________________
...turnturnturn.._____________________________________
Turn and turn and turn.________________________________________
...turnturnturn.._____________________________________
This night of dancing, of splendor, of magic.________________________________________
It is only just beginning.________________________________________


In this masquerade where a king can become a slave
And a slave can become a king.
A prince stood, hidden behind his mask.



Tonight he will dance.
Tonight he will dance.
Tonight he will...


Without titles, and roles.
Without responsibilities, and expectations.
Without fear of consequences.


Tonight is a night of deceit.
Lies hidden beneath glasses of wine.
Whose eyes do you see?
Whose hand do you hold?


This prince for tonight is but a mere boy.
A boy trying to set aside his responsibilities.
A boy whose only joy in life is his short freedom.


Oh but where is F R E E D O M ?



Can it be found in arm's reach?
Can it be found with the use of such simple words?



"My lady, can I find freedom in your arms?"__________________________

[Valentine W i t c h - -]

As if the dress wasnt uncomfortable enough, the idea of being stuck in a room with Break so soon after the earlier incident despite the fact that Melanie and the doctor are present was making things harder than usual. Alice kept her gaze on the floor, concentrating on not stepping on the hem of her dress' skirt as well as trying to avoid any eye contact with Break when she entered the room with Melanie. She thought she heard a faint approval from the doctor but without Break's voice jumping into the conversation, the atmosphere still seemed silent for her. However, it didnt take long, this silence that is.

Alice wasnt sure that Break's teasing comment was what she expected, but then again, what else did she expect? She squared her shoulders defensively as she lifted her eyes to meet his. For a moment her eyes flashed angrily, as if reminding him that he had no right to act normally after what happened. Besides, he had no right going around calling her rabbit in front of these people. Alice doubted they'd figure out the real meaning behind her nickname, but the last thing she wanted was for these people to think that Break's use of the nickname rabbit was a term of endearment. However, this idea failed a few seconds after she tried to show how angry she was for the moment the earlier incident entered her mind once more, her cheeks heated up. In fact, she felt so hot from her blush that she wouldnt be surprised if her shoulders had a faint tint of red in them.

For some reason, she lost her appetite for eating.

Nevertheless, Alice sat down to eat. She helped herself with the food and was initially silent at the beginning of the meal, but soon enough Melanie succeeded in getting Alice into random conversations around the table. She did notice however, that Break kept quiet the entire time. She didnt point it out and saw to it that she just ignored his presence. Without being entirely aware of it, Alice found herself starting to loosen up around Melanie specifically, without much reason. Perhaps maybe its because that she was the only one Alice could converse with normally. She had no idea what the doctor and her could talk about, as for Break well.. she just didnt want to talk to him at the moment.

Not long after the doctor had finished his meal, he excused himself for a quick smoke outside which left Alice with Melanie and Break. Though for Alice, Break currently didnt really count at the moment.

"How do you like the dress Alice? I knew it'd fit you perfectly."

The sudden change of topic surprised her. Melanie had been talking of random, general things, but when the doctor left, she suddenly zeroed in on Alice. The dress. Yes, she thought it fit perfectly, as if it was made for her, but that didnt make the wearing of dress bearable. Alice simply shrugged, truthfully, she still found the dress somewhat uncomfortable, but then again, perhaps she really just has an aversion to dresses. Wasnt that the case during that one time in Barma? Alice doubted just a simple perfect fitting dress would change her thoughts. But for some reason, Alice didnt want to lie to Melanie.

"Who owned this dress?"

"Ah, a friend. No one important."

Alice dropped the subject then. She had already finished her meal, and it was slowly beginning to feel awkward to stay in the kitchen when she's already done. She tried to excuse herself and return to her room. She wanted to rest. However, when she stood, Melanie quickly followed suit, which surprised the smaller girl. The same as when Melanie forced the dress on her, Alice didnt have a say when Melanie offered to bring Alice back to her room. Alice slightly argued that she felt just fine, but Melanie took her by the arm anyway and pushed her gently.

Not really wanting to argue anymore after finding herself steadily growing tired, Alice just nodded and glanced at Break for a moment who for Alice thought for some reason looked uncomfortable. Shrugging it off, Alice went on ahead as Melanie instructed. She was no longer around when Melanie turned to Break with a knowing smile.

"Dont worry, Mr. Break. Alice is going to be safe with me. I bid you goodnight."

[Valentine W i t c h - -]

So there she stood,
The little miss of a shy glance.
She reached out for me,
with those dainty hands of hers.



..murmur murmur murmur..
______Won't you look at that?
..murmur murmur murmur..


Oh, my what a fit!

Smile, just smile, ignore the rest of the world.
For in this moment, the only ones existing are--


M E___and___Y O U


A smile of acknowledgment for this amusing little bird.
She bowed to me as she asked for a dance

..and I thought


My lady isnt perhaps as shy as I thought.

I took her hand in one swift gesture
and urged her into the dance floor.
One with the crowd, yet standing out just the same.


L E A D T H E L A D Y.


Thats one rule when it comes to dancing.
The male should always take the lead.
One hand grasping her own,
the other resting on her waist.

Near, so near.
I could smell the fragrance of her hair.
So sweet, this lady of mine.


I WONDER~


What would this lady think,
should she realize just WHO she's currently dancing with.
Down to her knees, would she go?
Words of praise, would out her mouth go?


Enjoy the night and hide behind the mask.


No one will know, the hiding face.
No one will know, the person within.


No one will know...


..my name.



Oh why must you ask me that, little bird?
Why would you want to destroy this little bubble of peace?
That damned curiosity. That damned female trait.
No, that's one thing you shouldnt have asked.
But smile I would.



Tonight is a night where the muses of lies dance among us.______________________________
And she threatens me with her incoming presence.______________________________
Threatens me with the first possible lie of mine tonight.______________________________



Ah, my princess. My dear, dear princess.
Would you hate me so?
Would it make sense for me to say--
I have not the heart to deny you an answer.
But nor do I have the heart to tell you the truth.



Oh, dont hate me.

N O___N O___N O___N O



"Ah, my little Pandora. Must you really ask me that?
Yes, you may ask, but that doesnt mean I have to answer."


The night is young, but our song is ending.
Your question just may be the fall of us both.
We turn once, turn twice.


The night is young, but our song is ending.
Why do you hold on like so?
Our song is ending.. but your grip stands firm.


A R E_Y O U_T R Y I N G_T O_K E E P_M E_H E R E_?

[Valentine W i t c h - -]

Alice was glad to be gone from Break's presence as soon as she got away from the kitchen. That had been very awkward despite Break's obvious attempt to lighten things up with that comment he passed to her before dinner even began. Dresses huh. Well, she knew dresses werent made for her. She knew that. But why did she found herself getting upset over Break's teasing? Did she want him to approve of her dress? Oz once said, during Barma's, that the dress she wore suited her. That was nice. It made wearing the dress a bit bearable. But that was Oz. Oz always wanted to make other people feel better. What's to say he didnt lie just to make her feel better?

Damn it. She didnt like being upset. More so when it didnt make sense.

Unknown footsteps brought her back to the room where she stayed. She didnt even realize how she managed to find her room without difficulty. But she was too tired to think. She wanted to get rid of the dress and go to sleep. Now that sounded like a good idea. Entering her room, she locked the door behind her and quicky stripped herself of the dress, simply leaving it on the ground. Apparently, Melanie had seen to it to provide her a nightdress of sorts. Well, at least this one isnt so bad in comparison to the dress she had to wear earlier.

It was still a shade of blue, baby blue this time, and made of cotton and lace. She pulled it on carefully and went to the mirror on her wall, undoing the side plaits of her hair to get rid of the ribbons Melanie had woven into them. There, she looked normal now at least. She looked like herself. Staying barefoot, she walked over to the window and pushed them open, allowing the night air to blow into her room, to blow through her hair. The night air felt good, albeit a bit chilly, but then again, that may be just because of her clothing, seeing as it doesnt really provide much warmth in the first place.

Along with the night air, opening the window also allowed the moonlight to pour in the room. Only then did Alice notice her shoulder again on the mirror. Her earlier dress had hidden it, but this time, since her nightdress was only being held up by two strips of lace, the scar she got from her injury from a few days ago became visible. How ugly. Alice ran two fingers over the slightly raised flesh, still pink from the wound.

"..I wonder if you'll ever disappear.."

Suddenly frowning, Alice turned away from the mirror and dropped herself on the bed, curling up tightly until her bitter thoughts faded into a dreamless sleep.

[Valentine W i t c h - -]

Perhaps it was the sight of blood, her own blood, or the smell. Maybe it was the realization of the possibility that she was indeed sick. Maybe it was the copper taste in her mouth, but Erin suddenly felt weak. She needed Bridget. She was scared. She had always been a healthy girl despite her pale skin, or at least that was what she thought. She had always taken for granted that her parents were doctors.

She needed to get rid of the blood in her hands. She looked around her and was disappointed. No napkins, no tissues, nothing. She didnt dare wipe it on the bedsheets. It was around then that the door opened. Erin looked up, expecting Bridget, but her eyes widened when she saw Lyr. A bubble of laughter came up her throat. Was she really that sick that she's starting to have hallucinations? But for god's sake, why must it be him?

"Ah ha~ My own personal devil. Have you come to take me away?"

A slight hint of teasing was present in her faint voice, after all, she was only imagining things right? He had left earlier, maybe for good. And there was no way he'd willingly return to the hospital, more so to her.

"But then again, youre so unpredictable, you might as well be here after all. Why are you so confusing? I dont like it. I dont like it at all."

"For ******** sake, what the hell happened to ya?"

Erin giggled at hearing those words leave Lyr's lips. Now she was sure she was hallucinating. There was no way Lyr would come back to the hospital to check on her, and there was no way that concern for her would come from Lyr. For someone to be concerned, one must care, and Erin was a hundred percent sure that Lyr had no ounce of care in him for her. But why the hell wont she talk with this hallucination of hers? This could give her a chance to say the things she's been wanting to say ever since. Well-- she had been saying them, he just didnt want to hear. She reached out to him but held back just before her fingers brushed against his clothing.

"Im sick see.. ever since you-- ever since that happened, I never managed to move on. Not yet. I suppose.. heh. I really havent been eating well see.. no sleep either.. so sad. So upset.. frustrated.. theyre gone and now Im sick... I wonder. Maybe Im going to die as well. Hah~"

A sad smile came upon Erin's lips as she thought back on the recent events that turned her life upside down. She took her hand back and simply placed them on her lap before continuing her speech.

"And then you came. I thought you'd get rid of me too. I wished you did, but at the same time Im scared. I really hate you, but then again, I think-- I think I like seeing you around. You continue to remind me of what happened that night. As long as youre around, I wont be able to forget what happened. So I'll keep remembering. I wont forget.. Ah.. why am I?"

Tears started to freely pour from her eyes, surprising even Erin. Why was she crying? What was she talking about again? It was around that time that the door to her room clicked open again, this time revealing her nurse with Bridget trailing behind. A forced and weary smile came to Erin as she turned to the nurse who quickly went beside her. The nurse took her bloodied hand and pressed a towel against it.

"She's confused. She was given a shot earlier to keep her sleeping but for some reason, she woke up too soon. I suggest you leave her for the time being."

Erin looked from the nurse, to Lyr (who for some reason still hasnt disappeared from sight), and to Bridget, whose expression in her face she cant decipher. The nurse was pushing her sleeve up once more and before she could protest, she felt a stabbing pain on her arm. It only took a few minutes for her to get drowsy once more. But even so, she refused to close her eyes. The figures before her were moving, and she could hear them talk. Bridget's voice, the nurse's. Erin chuckled weakly when the nurse seemed to turn toward's Lyr's figure.

"What are you doing..? He doesnt exist. Why are you talking..?"

The nurse turned to face her, but whether the nurse replied to her or not, Erin no longer knew for she had fallen asleep by then.


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Bridget's POV
┗━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━┛

"..is she going to be alright?"

"Ah, you shouldnt worry about it. Its simply the effect of the drug. But really we should let her sleep. The doctor strongly advises it. Her body had become too weak for the last few days. It seems that this was the reason that her body finally gave in."

Bridget no longer said anything and simply exited the room along with the nurse and the boy came not just a few minutes earlier. She frowned, remembering how he simply pushed her away and entered Erin's room. Just who was he? She doubted he was Erin's friend simply because his arrogance alone wouldve turned Erin away, but he acted as if he had the right to keep close to her. Well, in her opinion anyway. Wasnt he the one who brought Erin out of her room since she locked herself in there a few days ago? It didnt make sense, but now that she was left alone with him when the nurse left, Bridget decided to take advantage and ask.

"..just who are you to the miss?"

By then Bridget was almost sure he wasnt someone from Erin's past. She trusted her ability to remember things quite vividly, and she had been with Erin for a very long time now. Surely, there would be even the faintest familiarity if Erin knew him from before. And the fact that Bridget doubted their acquaintance made her nervous around him. Not to mention pissed. It was as if he was forcing himself into Erin's life.


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End of POV
┗━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━┛

[Valentine W i t c h - -]

[Valentine W i t c h - -]

So now, where to go? There is currently only one place in the campus that Diva is fond of staying, the roof top. Unlike the usual school's empty rooftops, Hanagetsu's rooftop had a small lounge where students can spend their time doing whatever. But for Diva, her fondness of the rooftop originated from being able to watch the other students from above, not to mention that it keeps her from associating with them. From time to time other students would come up to the rooftop to escape from classes, but whenever they find Diva there, the politely excuse themselves and leave. Well good. They know how to respect her presence.

She was just about to turn and head to the rooftop when she found herself being stopped in her tracks. The hand on her shoulder caused her to stiffen unpleasantly. Anyone who dared who touch her, who dared to approach her from behind is someone who she can never forgive. Should she ever find out who, he or she damn well better say goodbye to Hanagetsu. No one touches her and--

"Hello, Diva."

-and calls her name with such disrespect! Wait-- she knew that voice. Ah.. Kuragari Seira. Pasting a smile that would otherwise cause shivers to anyone's spine, she turned to face the only person in the academy that she ever cared about. The co-member, and actually finder of the group she was in, Equality, was a fellow-chaos lover. Of course not everyone knew that. For all intents and purposes, Equality strives well.. equality among students, and obviously, it goes without saying that the group's target is dissolving the small bubble of temporary peace of the SA class.

"Kuragari-sama. What are you doing here outside during class hours? Masaki-san. What a pair of deliquents."

Diva chastised them sarcastically upon realizing that Masaki was also present in the scene. My my, so early in the first day of school, what was Kuragari thinking? Was he up for another plan against the SA students? It was no secret to Diva how Kuragari disliked Masaki's presence in Equality. But due to her own persuasiveness-- and no one would dare say no to her even Kuragari-- he agreed to let him stay. And despite his usual tardiness, once triggered correctly, Masaki could provide them with excellent ideas regarding the downfall of the SA. However, at the moment, Diva wanted a break. It was just the start of the school year and honestly, she could careless about the SA class at the moment. But eitherway, spending an hour alone is still less preferable in comparison to spending it with these two.

Stepping her way past Kuragari, she approached the bench where Masaki sat and dropped her handbag on it before settling down, crossing her arms and her legs in the process. She glanced momentarily at Masaki and chuckled, wondering whether he was still uncomfortable with her around, after all, she kinda did blackmail him into joining. However, as far as Diva was concerned, she didnt blackmail him. She simply persuaded him-- into incredible extent. And as said earlier, no one says no to Diva Yukihada. Sure she forced him to join, but he should be thankful even. As far as Diva's knowledge goes, they, Equality, were the only people close to friends Masaki had. No wonder the boy have a few loose screws in the head. Who in their sane mind could survive being alone? Anyway, that was something that transpired long ago and it didnt make sense to linger in it. Masaki knew not to leave the group, true or not, Diva could always come up with stories that will forever taint his name. He could dare and leave the group, but he would also have to leave Hanagetsu. The choice was simple if you ask her.

Diva was just settling down when she noticed a form she recognized standing not far from the spot where Kuragari, her, and Masaki gathered. A sly smile crept up her lips. Here was another individual who she managed to recruit into her little group. Akiko Fujimura, the so-called story teller of the campus. To tell the truth, Diva could care less whether her stories were real or not, but she saw a talent in the quiet girl. Enough to take her under her wing whether she liked it or not. And just as she suspected, the girl became a valuable member of the group. With her "fame" as the storyteller, people rarely take notice of her anymore, which made her the perfect spy for them against the SA class.

"Well now, look who comes to join our little perky group. Come over Akiko-chan. Im interested as to why you were seen talking to our little boy perfect earlier."

Yes, thats right. Isnt that the famous story that built her reputation anyway? Her claim of having a past with Kouichi, SA's top scorer. Diva herself had no comment on it, but she understood why people would doubt her word. Akiko wasnt a popular personality in comparison to Kouichi. She didnt think there exists a student in Hanagetsu who at least havent heard of the top student of the academy. Just why would a person like that associate himself-- in more than the usual friendly relationship-- with someone like Akiko, it seemed like a far fetched idea.

But somehow, there are times when Diva would ponder on it. Just silent what ifs and what it could mean to them, and how she could use this to her advantage. Diva clucked her tongue impatiently, waiting for Akiko to approach them just like what she asked her to do. Well now, it seemed that theyve gathered-- excluding Ryouta-- not that Diva believed he's essential. Well okay, maybe, when plans are being executed that is. Whenever thinking is taking place, the chairwoman's daughter could care less whether that loyal dog is present or not.

[Valentine W i t c h - -]

As far as Alice was concerned, that was the best sleep she'd ever had in days. She didnt know what it was that made her feel as if she belonged, which doesnt make sense seeing as she wasnt familiar with the place as it is. But there had been a tugging at her subconsciousness that seemed to tell her to stay. It was comforting. She was safe here, she should be safe here. Why is that?

It was a peaceful dreamless sleep, until it was disrupted. Alice had no idea what time it was, of how late (or early) it was into the night. One minute she was sleeping and the next she bolted up straight in bed, gasping at the sudden change of atmosphere in her room. From being soothing and calming, the entire air around her turned murderous and malicious. So much that the repeating message in her head was: "Im going to die". Whoever it was in her room was someone who has the intention of harming her. And intention.. a will so strong.. Will?

It didnt take long for Alice to completely jump out of bed upon realizing the possibility. Even though she knew she was in no condition to fight, she took a protective stance-- and stayed like that for a few minutes until her eyes adjusted to the darkness in her room. There was indeed someone standing in her own room. But it wasnt a Chain, she knew that much. It was a form she was completely familiar with, and it was because of that that she felt her last trust waver.

Break was in her room, and she was damn sure the feeling of hostility was coming from him. And his staff, that weapon through which Hatter's powers were usually channeled into was in his hands. Hatter's powers are specially made for destroying chains. And she was a chain. Putting two and two together, the picture isnt really pretty. Alice didnt try to figure out where such thoughts came from, but come they did, and they settled firmly in her head, leaving no space for doubt.

Dont trust----

....!?

Not safe. He needs to leave. Stay here. Youre safe here.

No. This wasnt the Will, for Alice had no antagonism for the owner of the voice she heard in her head. Whoever it was though.. Alice found herself believing it.

Kill. He wants to... you..

"Break.. what are you doing here?"

Leave! He needs to leave! Make him--!!

"Out! Get out of MY room!"

Alice didnt even notice a presence hidden within the shadows of her room. Nor did she see the approving smile of that person before it's presence completely faded from her room. Whoever that was, it found the current situation highly amusing.

[Valentine W i t c h - -]

"Break-- What the.."

Alice gasped as Break's hands gripped her shoulders, proceeding to shake the living daylights out of her with those crazed eyes of his. He was panicked for some reason Alice didnt understand. The voice that was urging her earlier against Break was gone, now she only felt confused.. about everything. Just a second earlier, she knew she felt threatened by Break's presence, but now, the moment his hands grabbed her, when she looked into his eyes, everything disappeared, leaving her confused.

"What? I-- Im fine.."

What just happening here? She wanted to ask but the words wouldnt come out. Alice couldnt remember the last time she saw Break lose his cool, it just doesnt happen, it shouldnt be possible. Even back in Cheshire's Lair, Alice didnt see Break lose his composure. Have you finally gone crazy? She wanted to ask, but something tells her this wasnt the right time to crack sarcastic remarks. He was seriously bothered by something, but as far as Alice was concerned, there was nothing strange going on. Alice was still tense even after Break let go. Unsure how to react to the current situation.

And then he decided to remind her of what happened the last time he came to her room.

Alice was glad the room was dark and she was standing against the light of the moon that poured in her room. She could feel her cheeks heat up when the memory was replayed in her head. They were in the same place where it happened, and once again, there were the two of them present in her room. She may be a Chain, but she was a girl nevertheless. However confusing, she didnt like the awkwardness that seeped through her when she was reminded of that one time he caught her well.. naked.

She couldnt even say anything in response to his apology, she could only nod as he excused himself, closing her door after him.

"What a cold night."

A shiver went through her small form as she went to her window to close them, returning to sleep after. At least that was what she hoped or. In fact, she wasnt able to sleep a wink in peace after Break had came to her room. She attempted to go through what happened again, but nothing made sense. She couldnt figure out why or what triggered such a reaction from him. The sky had already turned light when Alice was finally able to sleep again.

It was already near afternoon when Melanie finally came to wake her up. With a headache, Alice left the bed and followed Melanie start her day. She was in fact feeling so tired that she didnt mind Melanie do everything for her. She kept quiet through her bath, and even when Melanie said that her clothes still werent available, Alice kept quiet. The dress Melanie helped her with was a bit different from the last one she was given. This time it was a pale blue dress, while the dress had a full skirt from behind, the skirt was cut short in front. It was a familiar dress though Alice couldnt put a finger on it. Her head just wouldnt work.

It's okay. You dont have to do anything. Youre safe.

"Break-san. Lovely morning. I trust you had a good night's sleep?"

Alice turned at hearing Melanie's voice. Melanie had just added a final touch to her hair, though unlike last time, she didnt weave a ribbon into her plaits, but she simply stuck a white rose in her hair. Why was this so familiar?

I cant.. think.

You dont have to think. Youre safe.

I am.. safe.

"Break. Good morning.

[Valentine W i t c h - -]

He gave in. Oh good lord, how manipulative women can be when they wanted to. He didnt want to drop a name, even if it was just his false identity, but now is not the time of regrets. He gave out his name, he couldnt take it back. Alex kept himself calm even though he was anything but. Maybe it was a wrong idea to dance with this girl. But was it really fair to blame the girl? He didnt think so. After all, he shouldve learned his lesson years ago. Women were generally curious creatures.

"..the name Beth is all you need to know. May I ask you one thing? How I may find you again after tonight?"

Alex raised a brow at that. It was impossible-- or maybe not. The prince quickly removed the increasing tension in his body, he didnt want the girl, Beth.. what an ordinary name.. to take a hint of his discomfort. Alex wanted to laugh, this girl is something else, and he did notice that she refused to give him her last name, making him wonder. Perhaps she had a secret to keep as well? Alex was curious, but that was the last thing he wanted to admit. The last thing he wanted was an attachment to an unknown girl. He needed to find a way to release himself from her.

But how?

Alex only nodded as he whisked her off in the dance they shared. They turned and turned, but beneath the steps they took, Alex tried to locate the several servants as well as royal guards who kept their eyes on him. Yes, they were the few people who knew exactly who he was. His parents no doubt, wanted these people to keep an eye on him. He had been dancing with Beth for some time now. He could already hear his mother ask about her. Damn that arrangement of theirs..

Alexander Van Alen, the prince of Elemia, was anything but a prince. In his own opinion, he was a slave to his title. A year left is what he had before he finally takes a role for the kingdom. At age 21, he was to be wed-- not engaged-- wed to the princess of Lemouria, the neighboring kingdom for the sake of unity. Alex didnt like it one bit, but what could he do? He hadnt even met his future wife. It was due to his slightly rebellious nature that he was able to hold the wedding off for a few years. He was eighteen then and he wanted a taste of freedom, and so he entered into a compromise.

To be granted freedom from his duties until he turns 21.

The wedding was halted, though he was still engaged. During his free years, Alex did whatever he wanted, one of them was joining the theater under his faux name, Matthew Allen, where he was known as the lead actor on several plays. They knew him as Matthew, but no one knew who he really was. It didnt take long before "Matthew" became known throughout Elemia, and his parents became concerned. Alex was extremely good-looking, there was no going around that. And with the fame he had gathered under Matthew's identity, females, young and old alike fawned over him. Worried about how this might affect Alex's engagement to the princess of Lemouria, the king and queen warned Alex that should they find out that he was having an attachment to any girl, he would be thrust into the wedding before he even turned 21. They didnt want him to compromise the uniting of the two kingdoms because of his personal life.

And now, returning to Beth, Alex was starting to worry.

His mother is quite prone to assuming things. Should she receive news that Alex had been dancing with a single girl.. it doesnt sound good. Alex didnt realize that he had been too long in thought until Beth spoke again, speaking those words that he was sure he didnt want to hear.

"Matthew.."

Why did his name sound so good coming from her? He wanted to hear her speak his name once more. How would his real name sound like, coming from her?

"I have no desire to leave your arms on this dance floor tonight, do you mind?"

Ah, what punishment is this? Alex pulled her closer as they continued to dance, but tension was starting to creep back into his body. She cant stay, he cant stay, they cant continue dancing. Alex's eyes returned to Beth's own, but they werent the same soft gaze from before, he gave her a hardened gaze, almost regretful. He stayed silent until their second dance ended, then he stopped. But he didnt pull away just yet.

"Im afraid I cant stay. Such a charming woman you are, I'd feel bad for keeping other men from enjoying your company."

He needed to get away before she could say another word and make him stay. He wanted to keep her company, but he also wanted to keep his freedom. If only they didnt meet under the watchful eyes of his parents and their loyal servants.. It was then an idea came to him. It was crazy, but nonetheless, an idea. Just before letting go, Alex's arms tightened around Beth, as if hugging her, and leaned down to level his lips with her ear where he whispered quietly.

"Tell me, my princess. Do you like plays?"

It was a very vague hint, but it wouldnt be his fault now if she gets the message or not, besides, there wasnt enough time. Almost regretfully, Alex removed his arms from surrounding Beth and took two steps back before bowing deeply. After which, without another word, he turned and disappeared from her sight, hidden by the swirling dancers that occupied the dance floor.

[Valentine W i t c h - -]

Alice didnt notice how long she sat there until Melanie told her to go to the kitchen for breakfast, to which she responded to with a nod-- almost as if it was an automatic reaction from her. Picking up her skirts, she ran to the kitchen with Melanie behind her. She was feeling childishly giddy. Maybe because of the idea of food.

"Tea time!"

Melanie chuckled under her breath at Alice's exclamation, followed by a slight blush at her sudden outburst. Alice on the other hand, had clamped her hands over her mouth after her little outburst. She didnt know where it came from, but it fell out of her lips as if it was a natural thing to say. Sure she didnt mind tea, but she didnt love it enough to look forward to it as much as she did right now. Either way, she excused herself and sat down, with Melanie sitting beside her.

The nurse had a cheerful attitude throughout breakfast, conversing with her like she would any other day, all while serving her breakfast. It felt good, that breakfast, it was as if she had no worries. As if she wasnt a chain. At that moment, she was simply a girl enjoying breakfast. Melanie did pay a bit of attention to her, like she did yesterday. She kept brushing Alice's hair backward over her shoulder, straightening her skirt, making sure the rose in her hair wasnt falling. For a moment Alice found it strange, but Melanie was safe, she saved her life, she was taking care of her. She trusted Melanie. It didnt take long for Melanie to finish her own breakfast and excuse herself for her daily chores. Alice offered to come with but Melanie brushed her off.

"It's fine Alice-chan. Why dont you take a walk around or something? I'll find you when Im done."

Alice pouted as Melanie patted the top of her head and left. Without as much of a glance at Break, she left the kitchen as well, taking a walk around the house as was suggested by Melanie. How boring. But maybe she'll find something interesting while away.


~~~~~~~~~~ Melanie's POV ~~~~~~~~~~

Things were going quite well. The Will would be able to reestablish the connection with the Chain soon enough, as it is, Alice was already attached. Easy, so easy. But nevertheless, she had to work on her usual duties around the house. That man, Xerxes Break, he was getting suspicious, that much was obvious. Well its fine, its not like a few hours away from Alice would do some damage, the seed had been planted. Doing the laundry seemed like a good idea, and besides, Alice wasnt entirely alone after all. Her chain, Mimi, would make sure of that.

Hours passed, then the Hatter appeared, offering help.

Melanie frowned for a moment, but she allowed him, as far as she was concerned, she had to act normally, she must not show any signs of antagonism. He was already suspecting, no need to make things worse, however, Melanie kept quiet, refusing to strike up a conversation with him while hanging the laundry, besides, with the personality he has, Melanie figured there was no need for her to start talking.

"Whew what tiring work~"

Melanie turned to him and smiled as she picked the now-empty laundry basket and nodded, thanking him for his help. There was no need to keep herself in his company for any longer than necessary. But she had only taken a step when she halted due to Break's next words. This didnt sound good. Nevertheless, Melanie tried to keep up an innocent face, despite knowing where exactly this conversation would end.

"I actually didn't sleep too well...I kept...hearing noises. You wouldn't know anything about it would you?"

"No, I wouldnt know, unfortunately."

"Is that so?"

She underestimated his speed. Melanie quickly released her hold of the laundry basket and jumped backwards with a furious glare, but it was already too late. The front part of her shirt was slashed neatly, revealing the incomplete seal that was on the upper part of her left chest.

"I beg to differ."

"So it seems that I have been found. But you wouldnt want to attack me now, Hatter. We dont want our dear little rabbit harmed, do we?"

With those words and a malicious smile, she quickly turned on her heel and ran back inside the house, locating Alice.


~~~~~~~~~~ End of POV ~~~~~~~~~~


Alice at that time had managed to wander about the second floor of the house, though mainly they were simply empty rooms, she happened upon what seemed like a study room, seeing as it was too small and the shelves were too limited to be considered a library. Either way, it was a decent room. Seeing as there was nothing else to do, Alice decided to look around the room as well as the books scattered about when she heard someone enter the room. Thinking it was Melanie, she turned-- only to see a female figure who wasnt Melanie. The aura was unmistakable.

"Chain!"

Alice quickly looked around and dove for the nearby desk, grabbing the switchblade that was upon it-- a small blade that was probably used for slicing envelopes open. It wasnt the best weapon against a chain, but its better than none. It could give her a chance to escape.. find Break. In a swift gesture, Alice ripped the longer skirt of her dress, leaving her with the shorter skirt, allowing her easier movement-- she attacked. But she was a mere girl without any abilities in comparison to the Chain.

The chain caught her wrist in a tight grip and pulled her against itself. Upon a closer look, the chain was taking a form of a nurse with a fully bandaged face. That was the last thing that flashed through Alice's mind. There was a sharp stabbing pain that was thrust just a bit below her collar bone. It didnt take a second after when Alice slumped weakly against the chain as if she was simply a lifeless doll, her eyes blank.

It was under such state that Melanie found and took her.

[Valentine W i t c h - -]

Alex didnt look back once as he walked away from Beth. His interest for the masquerade party disappeared all of a sudden. Usually, he couldnt be bothered by any girl. She wasnt the first girl to cling to him the way she did, but she was the first girl that bothered him even after he stopped dancing with her. It wasnt like him. Alex shook his head and took a glass of wine from a passing server, however, the wine glass merely came near to his lips, he wasnt even able to take a sip. From the far corner of the room, his covered gaze followed the disappearing swish of Beth's skirt as she left the hall. A small smile tugged at his lips then. It would seem that, Beth's last dance for the masquerade, was from the prince himself. Imagine that.

Beth. Such an ordinary name, but it felt good on his tongue nevertheless. Upon realizing that his thoughts had once again returned to the girl he had danced with earlier, the smile he had on his face disappeared into a light frown. Another female approached him at that time, asking for a dance. It wouldve been a good idea, maybe she would even get his thoughts off Beth. But he said no. He couldnt bring himself to dance again for that night. Excusing himself politely, he took the unknown female's hand and placed a light kiss at the back of her gloved hand and left promptly.

Maneuvering himself out of the main hall into the turning corridors of the palace was easy, but it didnt take long for a servant to catch pace with him. Alex then removed his mask and handed it to the boy that followed after him. His coat followed, placing the item on the boy's arms. Alex loosened his bow tie, allowing the ribbon to hang limply over his shoulders while the top two buttons of his undercoat was undone. Now that felt comfortable.

"Are you retiring to your room, my prince?"

"Yes Gilbert, get my bath ready."

"Yes, my lord."

Alex nodded and headed to his room, with Gilbert trailing after him. Alex simply settled on the couch that was present in his room while Gilbert fixed his change of clothes, disappearing into his bathroom after as he was directed to. During that idle time, Alex reached for a bunch of paper that was stapled together that laid on the small table that was beside the couch. The script for tomorrow's play. Alex had already memorized his lines, obviously. But right now he needed to focus on something else. A distraction. Distraction did arrive, but not because of him reading his script, it was around that time that his mother, the queen, stepped into his room.

Alex quickly sat up, even attempting to straighten his crumpled shirt before standing, giving a slight bow at his mother who after Alex stood, settled on the now vacant couch. Alex kept quiet as he continued to stand before her, watching her quietly as she took the script Alex was holding earlier. A few seconds of silence penetrated the air as the queen skimmed through the script before finally addressing her son.

"You know why Im here, Alex?"

"No mother. By all means, you should be enjoying the party."

"Ah dear son, you should be the one who's enjoying it. It is your birthday celebration after all."

"Thank you, mother, but Im afraid Ive started to feel tired. And I need to appear at the Capital earlier tomorrow."

"Another of your plays?", the queen remarked, waving the script once.

"Yes."

"Well, did you enjoy the party at least?"

Alex nodded and sat down beside her, he already knew why his mother was there, she didnt have to start off trying to make it sound like she came to him worried whether he was enjoying his so-called birthday party. She saw what happened, he was sure, when he danced with Beth. She was bothered, and thus she came to him. Alex sighed and leaned back into the couch, closing his eyes, waiting for her mother to get to the point.

"And that girl you were dancing with, did she enjoy the party?"

So there it was, "I dont know what youre talking about, mother. We simply danced. We didnt talk about anything."

"What's her name?"

"..Beth. And I probably wont see her again. You dont have to worry. Im keeping my promise."

The queen looked contented, “That's good. Well, Im going to leave you now to rest. Happy birthday Alex.”

Alex looked up at his mother at the mention of his name, she rarely used it nowadays, simply calling her “son” during a normal day. Nevertheless, he spared her a smile and simply closed his eyes when his mother leaned down to kiss his forehead before leaving his room. A huge sigh left the male once left alone. He leaned back against the couch, his fingers digging through his hair as he thought back on his previous words.

“I probably wont see her again.. Beth.”

The sentence alone had a bittersweet taste in his mouth. He liked her name in all it's ordinariness, in fact, he wanted to repeat the name over and over. Her name was all he knew about her, it wont get far. They dont even know how each other looked like. For all they both know, they could pass by each other in Elemian streets and not recognize each other. If she was even Elemian. Gilbert at that time broke through his thoughts when he reappeared in the room after fixing his bath.

“My prince.”

“Ah, Im coming. Im sorry I had you do this Gilbert, I couldve called on one of the maids.”

“Im glad to have done this for you.”

“How dependable. Take a good night's sleep. We're leaving for the Capital early tomorrow.”

“Yes, my prince. And happy twentieth birthday.”

Alex simply nodded as he watched Gilbert leave his room. He's finally turned 20. Just a year left. His last year as Matthew Allen. Banishing that unpleasant thought from his head, he entered his bathroom, got rid of his clothes, and stepped into the welcoming warmth of his bath.


━━━━━━━━━━━━━━


The sun had barely risen when Alex was woken up by Gilbert. With a groan, Alex pushed himself off the bed and ran his fingers through his disheveled hair. Nodding at Gilbert, he excused the younger male so he could get ready. Alex wasnt someone who take long to get ready, in fact, he settles with the simplest outfits when he's going out. He wasnt a prince outside the palace gates, he was merely an actor in the Capital. While the Capital is one of the most known theaters in Elemia, an actor's profit, no matter how famous he is, will never be shown in his appearance. It was once of the main rules of the theater.

Besides, its not as if simple outfits lessened Alex's looks as far as he was concerned.

He spent a good few minutes in the bathroom for his usual morning rituals before returning to his room once more where an outfit was already laid ready for him at the end of his bed. Alex smiled, Gilbert really was a dependable fellow. His outfit for the day consisted of black pants, a violet button-up shirt and a black coat to finish. It was formal yet casual. In Alex's opinion, just perfect. Alex left the first button of his shirt open and the bottom of the shirt untucked, allowing his shirt to fall smoothly against his lean body. The coat, he only brought with him via his arm. Alex smiled at catching his reflection. His mother just might throw a fit if she saw his attire. Not that he was planning to show. He never showed himself to his parents when he stepped into the character of Matthew Allen, and his parents werent interested either anyway, as long as he keeps his end of the deal, they could care less of what he does. Gilbert at the time was waiting patiently for Alex from outside the prince's room, and when Alex finally appeared, Gilbert straightened up, only to be patted at the back by Alex.

“Why so stiff Gil? Loosen up. Lets go.”

Gilbert smiled and nodded, following after Alex as he walked down the familiar corridors that will bring them outside the palace gates inconspicuously. Gilbert is a fifteen-year-old boy who served Alex and none other. They first met while Alex was performing as Matthew in the Capital about three years ago and was taken in by Alex under the conditions that he wouldnt reveal his true identity. It was a deal Gilbert didnt find hard to accept, and he stayed extremely loyal to the prince. Outside the palace gates, when Alex was simply the actor Matthew Allen, and not the prince, Gilbert played the part of Matthew's younger brother, theyve been at it for three years now and Gilbert has yet to find his service for Alex unpleasant.

It took a while on foot to arrive at the Capital, but both Gilbert and Alex were used to it. Gilbert was still amazed by how different Alex was when he was in Matthew's shoes. He was too carefree, too friendly, too everything. No one would even suspect Alex to be the heir to the throne of Elemia. He was loved by those who knew him (as Matthew) and Alex greeted everyone with a brilliant smile. Here was a prince who acted more like one of them than a royal who sees himself as a level above the common people. It was for this reason that Gilbert found serving Alex a great honor.

“Matt! Hey, Matthew!”

“Oy, Maddox.”

Alex grinned as Maddox, Alex's closest friend in the Capital, came over with his typical draping of an arm around his shoulder. A sound of laughter came from Alex as Maddox purposely messed his hair up. Maddox was older than him by a few months, but whenever together, the two act younger than their age, mostly in annoyance of the other members of the Capital.

“You finally crashed the twenties huh? Old man. Where'd you run off to yesterday? Everyone was looking for you.”

“Dont speak as if youre not twenty yourself. And I went to the masquerade in the palace. I was invited you know, and it didnt sound bad, attending that is. Lots of girls there mate.”

“Pah! You lucky b*****d. Dont let Camina hear you, she was hard enough to handle yesterday. Which brings us to.. you really should drop by in her room. Princess wont stop giving the rest of us a hard time unless she sees you. Yah~ Little Gilbert. So you dropped in huh? Oy Matt, rehearsal's in two hours. Make sure youre there, you know the boss. Nasty dragon he is.”

Alex laughed at the surge of words from Maddox, “Yeah, I got all that. I suppose I'll go see Cam, take care of Gil for me will you? Make him scrub the stage or something, he's good at that.”

“Brother!”

Alex just laughed once more and ruffled Gilbert's hair before leaving the younger boy under Maddox's care before running off to one of the various rooms backstage the Capital. Camina was the female lead in Capital as he was the male lead, it was inevitable that they would get paired in almost everything that takes place in the Capital whether on stage or backstage. Unfortunately for Camina, she believed that Alex harbored sincere feelings for her while in Alex's side, he was simply playing along to save himself unnecessary arguments. Camina can really be hard to handle when she wants to. A perfect prima donna. Upon arriving at Camina's room, Alex knocked at the already open door. It seems that he was expected.

“Hey Beautiful~”

Camina was a flaming red-head with the greenest eyes there is. She was beautiful in her own right, too beautiful in fact that Alex didnt doubt it even once that she can bring males to their knees with one look, make them follow her whims with every word that drops from her lips. Fortunately, he wasnt one of them. Her body didnt disappoint as well. The nineteen-year-old actress was filled in perfectly in every curve a man can imagine her having. Why did Alex know? Oh he knows. Those little escapes backstage during the last three years with her was enough for him. Perhaps it was one of the main reasons why Camina believed them to be an official pair. If things get worse, Alex would have to set things straight. But at the moment..

Camina turned sharply at hearing Alex's voice. Camina was one of the many who resided in the Capital, and Alex found her sitting around in her nightdress, an almost see-through lacy garment that was underneath a white robe. A smile broke Alex's lips. White indeed. The color of innocence, it certainly wasnt made for Camina. Camina's curls bounced over her shoulders as she quickly stood from her seat to throw herself into Alex's welcoming arms. But for a moment, a very short moment at that, the girl that was in Alex's arms wasnt Camina. The strands of hair that caught his fingers through werent red, they were golden, and the eyes that looked up at him werent green, they were an intriguing shade of red.

Beth..

Camina had wrapped her arms around Alex's neck, and with a suggestive press of her body against him, she cornered the surprised male against the wall as her lips pressed against his. It was a normal greeting between the two of them, but Alex had something.. someone else in his mind. The moment Camina's lips pressed against his, the soft kiss that he was planning to give Camina suddenly turned forceful. His fingers dug into her hair, gripping them firmly as he tilted her head upwards. The action caused Camina to gasp, to part her lips for him. Alex sighed.

“I missed you..”

Those were the last words that came from him as the door slammed shut in on them.


━━━━━━━━━━━━━━


An hour and a half later, Alex sat at the edge of Camina's bed, one hand digging into his hair. Just what did he do again? Brushing his hair back in exasperation, he looked behind him where Camina lay asleep, only wearing the same violet shirt that he wore earlier on the way to the Capital.

Just what the hell came over me?

Well no use getting bothered over it now. For Camina, it just might be a normal “one of those” encounters. No need to make her think otherwise. Calming himself down for a few seconds, Alex reached over to shake Camina gently by her shoulders to wake her up.

“Wake up Princess, Perry needs us in thirty.”

Camina came around with a yawn as she stretched languidly before allowing her eyes to settle on Alex's shirtless form. A slow smile came on her lips, apparently remembering what took place an hour before. She did sit up, but she reached for Alex again-- who pulled back in response, shaking his head while alarm bells rang in his head. Taking Camina by her shoulders, Alex held her in a distance, eyeing her down in a firm yet gentle way.

“Now Cam. Get ready. My shirt, if you please.”

Camina pouted but took his shirt off nevertheless and handed it back to Alex who by then looked away from Camina's naked form. Without as much as a second glance, Alex stood up, his back facing her, as he buttoned up his shirt once more before excusing himself from Camina's presence.


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“Finally! I was afraid the boss would explode if you didnt arrive in the next minute! Oh? Where's Princess?”

“In her room, Maddox. And before you ask-- dont ask.”

“Oh, no need too. Your shirt gives enough answers. Its wrinkled you know.”

“Maddox, if you dont shut your mouth, I'll close it for you.”

“Why so pissed? Time not enou--- Hah!”

“OI YOU TWO. IF YOU HAVE TIME TO MESS AROUND, GET YOUR PRETTY ASSES HERE ON STAGE AND WORK IT.”

“'sir!”

Maddox was still grinning ear to ear even after Alex just tried to punch him for teasing him, Alex on the other hand, was genuinely troubled. It was a good thing Perry was too much to handle, demanding his actors' attention on the dot. If Perry continued the choking attitude on set, Alex didnt doubt that soon enough, he'll have the entire play in mind without space to spare to worry about what just happened.

“And where in the heavens is Cam?!”

“Here, here. We can start, yes?”

It only took one run to perfect the entire play, besides one run is all they had for the theater had opened minutes after they finished the last rehearsal. The play for this week was a story different from others, while Perry usually lived for the fixed happy endings, he settled for a tragic-- if that's how you want to see it-- ending. There were three main characters in the play, of course played by Alex, Cam, and Maddox. Alex and Cam's characters were engaged to get married, however, through the course of the play, Cam's character had fallen for Maddox's (to Cam's obvious dismay) and vice versa. Alex's character was initially filled with jealousy, but upon realizing that the girl's character's happiness would be with Maddox's, the story twisted so that in the end, it was Alex's character who patched things up so Cam would end up running off with Maddox.

Alex, the moment he stepped up the stage and the curtain had lifted, quickly took his character's personality. In fact he was known for the most realistic acting on stage. He was a man of different masks, different persons, it was the very reason he was given the male lead in almost every play the Capital had. It was also because of this, his ability to take on different personalities in a snap of a finger, was the very reason he appealed so much to his female audience. The mystery of his true personality and the discovery of the real “Matthew” drew lots of attention from the female gender. It was Alex's largest appeal. If only they knew. If only they knew.

The play went on for two hours, not that Alex would notice. Actually, whenever Alex was up on stage, acting, he barely gives the audience a thought unless necessary. While acting, his audience doesnt exist. Even he himself doesnt exist. The only ones who do exist are the characters being portrayed in the play.

“Oh woe, what has love turned me into? The woman I loved so dear, the woman who I have surrendered my heart to was gone. But I shall not despair. As long as she finds happiness in the man she chose over me, her happiness will fuel my own. Alas, let me live the remainder of my life alone, for no woman could ever come close to her, forever and a day, my heart will always belong to her.”

It was the last line Alex delivered before the curtains dropped in on them, officially ending the play for the day. The next time the curtain lifted, every actor, actress that had taken part in the play lined up on stage to be introduced by Perry himself, with Cam, Maddox, and Alex as the last to be mentioned.

“Camina Winslow as Madeline Queen, Maddox Adams as Ross Scott, and Matthew Allen as Andrew Westcliff.”

The audience clapped loudly at the mention of the three most known actors (and actress) of the Capital, some even went out of their way to give them a standing ovation. Cam was beside herself, gleaming with pride as she always did after every play while Maddox simply turned to Alex with a wide grin, which Alex returned with an acknowledging smile. The three bowed simultaneously as the curtain closed in on them for the second time.

Alex had not enough time to notice a certain blonde who sat among the audience.