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Chapter 8 The Wrong Sort of Gift
Last Updated:
2022-10-24 08:01:28
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Will Bear the Moon Chapter 9 Stay Still Please
*Nicoli*It wasn’t long before Nicoli regretted his choice. The maze was hot thanks to the direct sunlight. And the sun seemed hell-bent on attacking the back of his head. It felt like a magnifying glass burning into his skull.And that’s not to mention the bugs. Oh, the bugs.I hate bees. Nicoli flinched as another flew by. Was it him, or were they venturing too close to his face? Either way, it made him nervous. Bees being his least favorite bug.Last year, Nicoli had been stung by one and the pain was horrible. He swelled up like a balloon. It was a whole ordeal, and Nicoli wasn’t about to forget it. But I have to. Nicoli thought to persevere. Because this is for Ana. That was reason enough to put up with it. But, despite the resolve, the threat of another sting was fresh in his mind. And when one flew too close to his nose, Nicoli couldn’t help but jump.“No!” Nicoli yelped, quickly moving to duck down. “Get away,” And he stayed hunched over.“Your Highness?” Philpé, meanwhile, w
Last Updated : 2022-11-01Will Bear the Moon Chapter 10 Spiderweb and Shawdow
*Ana*By the time we return, I am thoroughly exhausted, and barely have the strength to rest my head against the side of the bath, as the cold water laps against my frame. It does me good, cooling me, from the outside at least. But I can not completely escape it, even now feeling heavy humid air hangover us both.But still, it is much better to be inside now, as it is high noon. A time of day, otherwise known as Nochten’s most dangerous time. Dangerous because its heat has been known to kill the most hardy of man, being the hottest part of the day.“Hah,” I groan, gently sloshing more cold water to my chest and limbs. It’s cold relief the only weapon I can afford against the invasive heat. I’m glad I went in when I did. I reflect, feeling how sore my body is, especially around my thighs. Half of me wonders if it is because I was too stubborn for a saddle. Would it have spared me this pain? Perhaps. But it doesn’t matter now.I only want to focus on the bath, and then, prepare for the
Last Updated : 2022-11-07Will Bear the Moon Chapter 11 Indignatly Foolish
*Naska*Naska pulled up her thin skirt to better quicken her step, doing her best to avoid the eyes of the other servants as she moved. Not that they had any room to judge her. It wasn’t like they were dressed better. Everyone was dressed down because of the heat.But still, Naska felt the stares, the judging eyes that watched her go. Likely going to start up a new rush of rumors and gossip about her. Never seem to have enough to say against her, despite the years, of coming up with another scandal. But Naska wasn’t afraid, rather, it made her all the more want to shove it back in their faces.Let them think what they want. Naska lifted her head higher. They know nothing about us. Despite being a fallen woman, Naska refused to find shame for her actions. She didn’t care they thought lowly of her and her bastard son. They were nothing to her anyway. And she didn't care about them.There is only one person who does. And she made to go him even faster.Naska picked up her pace. The doorm
Last Updated : 2022-11-14Will Bear the Moon Chapter 12 It Is Better to Look Good
*Queen Belinda*“Mama, this is torture,” Nicoli went again, pouting and huffing, pulling Belinda from her thoughts."Hmm?" Belinda lifted her head, “Torture?” She turned her grey eyes on the tailor.“Oh, uh, no, I haven’t,” The tailor quickly shook his head, exposing his hands, as if to say, he’s done nothing. Knowing full well, that if he had, even so much as scratched her son with a pin, he’d pay for it.As long as you know that. Belinda mused, turning back to flip through the catalog of new potential styles. Fashion certainly changes quickly, doesn’t it? Belinda noted, looking over the pages. All the more reason why it was a good thing she decided to make a new suit. She didn’t want her darling boy to be out of the loop.Girls are such visual creatures after all, and Belinda wanted to make it easy, having them come fall prey to his charms if they didn’t already, and all come, begging for Nicoli’s hand. Or, at least, their parents would. And from there, well, it was all about how g
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*Nicoli*“Your Royal Highness?” Philpé stood up with surprise, not hearing the boy draw so close. Usually, both men could tell when Nicoli was bounding over, hearing his chatter of energy. But for whatever reason, that energy was not there, instead, today, Nicoli was quiet. His silent posture alarming enough on its own.“Are you… alright?” Philpé asked, watching the boy. “You look,” He stopped, daring not say what both men were thinking because both could see it. Nicoli’s eyes were pink and puffy, almost as if he had been crying off somewhere, out of sight, just before joining them. “Can you paint today?” Nicoli, cut him off, moving to sit on the bench, lifting his head up as if nothing the matter. Or, at least, he wanted to be, despite how he felt. But, in reality, it felt like everything was out of sorts.But the painting should take my mind off things. Nicoli straightened up, hoping that would help, and waited on Philpé. But here, sadly, Nicoli found Philpé only frowning.“I’m af
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*Ana*Only the sound of the insects brings me back from my thoughts, helping me notice my surroundings. It’s going to be high noon soon, and it’s already sweltering. I can feel sweat accumulate, underneath my shawl, making my hair stick to the back of my neck, and make it itchy.It’s going to be even hotter than yesterday. I swallow, my throat already dry, and it will only get worse. Soon it will be too hot to do anything. I should end this quickly. It’s going to be impossible soon, and waste no more time, getting my last piece of today’s agenda.“Rise, Admiral Nugen.” I lift my hand, “Please,”“Your Empress,” Nugen rises, a slight sheen of sweat on his brow, but otherwise, he shows no other strain to the heat, keeping a surprising grace to his middle-aged features. As a human, he carries himself rather well, I admit with a quick thought, but just as quickly, get back to the point. Nugen had waited for his turn, and I meant to give him his time.“Admiral,” I go again, but not befor
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*Ana*“Ah,” I wince slightly as she goes again, rough with the sponge. Red streaks run down my skin with every scrub, rendering me sore after. It’s almost enough to make me want to call to stop, but keeping my peace, if not for the fact, that I know she’s just being thorough.Thorough, yes, but she’s not like Maddie. I can’t help but compare. But Naska is not Maddie, and it doesn’t help to dwell. Naska is doing her job. Who was I to expect more?No, it’s easier just to let it be. I can put up with this much.“You're quiet today, Your Empress” Naska speaks, quite a surprise, considering she rarely ever starts. “Penny for your thoughts?”“I was just,” but I cut off with a sharp cry, “Ow,” I look down, seeing Naska miss the sponge and accidentally rake her nails over my arm. “Apologies, your Empress.” Naska quickly excuses, but by now, it is already over. The scrubbing was done, and she was up and moving for a clean wrap. I, in the meantime, look over at the red marks, before sighing. Bu
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*Aunt Funda*“What is this?” Funda nearly killed over right then and there as the postmaster left, leaving Funda with not one, but three big problems. And making it as if she was about to scream, her fangs sharpening, and blood rushing into her ears. But as tempting as it was, Funda stopped herself, knowing full well she couldn’t, not when all the servants and ladies of the court were in earshot. “Is everything alright, Lady Funda?” Sure enough, one of the older noble women spotted Funda, and drew closer with interest.“Is that her Empress’s mail?” She asked on, sweetly, stepping closer, “And a package too?” She leaned in, eyes clearly trying to read. “I wonder who sent such a,”“Oh, yes,” Funda quickly pulled the tray close to her, “just news of the colonies again.” Funda lied, desperate to hide the senders.“Oh,” The noble seemed to deflate, “Just that?” Funda nodded.“Yes, probably nothing but more bad news.” Funda went on, “I’m sure her Empress will prattle on about it in the nex
Last Updated : 2022-12-05
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Will Bear the Moon Chapter 32 Drinking Buddies
*Johan*As he entered the banquet hall, Johan quickly noticed quite a few things. The first was that King Alexander was nowhere to be seen, though Johan expected that. He must have still been talking with Queen Bratha.What surprised him, though, was that others were missing—two, to be exact. The handsome brunette prince was not in the banquet hall as he thought he would be, considering he did not see him in the lobby or even the line. He was gone, and neither was Ana. Who he did see was just Hidi.The giant queen stood out among the partygoers- not just because of her size. Her very presence seemed to overpower anyone who dared draw near. Those who attempted to pass her either darted their eyes down or weakly bowed before hightailing it inside. Johan could see that even that old coot kept a safe distance if anyone wanted to try to talk to her, like the ever-eager Sir Celbest.The blonde was not pleased about something, and Johan could easily see it. The girl had never been one to hi
Will Bear the Moon Chapter 31 Is This How You Like It
*Nicoli*Nicoli held onto Ana like a man gripping the edge of a cliff—tight, unyielding, unwilling to let go for even a second. The very idea of releasing her, even to their father, was absurd. No. Absolutely not.He had waited too long, ached too much, spent years longing for this moment. And now that she was finally by his side again, he refused to let anything—anyone—take her away. Not tonight. Not ever. So be it if he had to fight off the entire court to keep her close. Vampire, noble, or king, he didn’t care. He’d take them all on.She was his Anastasia. And now that they were together, everything felt right again.A rare, genuine grin tugged at his lips—one that wasn’t for show, unlike the practiced smiles he wore in Dawny. This was different. This was real.But as they moved through the white halls, his excitement warred with Ana’s slow, deliberate steps. Too slow. She still walked like an old lady.Nicoli’s muscles twitched with pent-up energy, his entire body screaming to mo
Will Bear the Moon Chapter 30 Misdirection
*Ana*My body freezes, every muscle locked in place as Nicoli leans in closer. His face is inches from mine, and I feel my breath catch, a whirlwind of confusion and anticipation racing through my mind. What is he doing? Is…he going to kiss me?But we can’t—we shouldn’t. We aren’t children anymore.As children, it was innocent. Nicoli used to kiss me on the lips, but it was always affectionate—nothing more, just like when he would hold my hand or offer a playful hug. It was natural to him, something that didn’t feel strange, something I expected from him without question. But that was then.Now, we’re adults. And that changes everything.We can’t– I try to tell myself that, but something in me hesitates, unsure whether I want him to stop or... not. I’m paralyzed, my heart beating so loudly I can hear it in my ears. As his face nears mine, I feel the world shrinks, the air around us thick with tension. A strange eagerness stirs in my chest—a warmth I don’t understand. It coils through
Will Bear the Moon Chapter 29 Interconnection
*Ana*“Nicoli–” He’s going the wrong way again. I shake my head, the soft chime of my gold chains punctuating my amusement. But he insists on leading, judging by the stubborn set of his shoulders. He’s determined to get somewhere despite having absolutely no idea where that is.For the past twenty minutes, Nicoli has forged ahead with all the confidence in the world, only to crumble in confusion when we inevitably hit another dead end or loop back to the same hall. Left, then right, then left again. Each turn is taken with steadfast determination — and each time, I have to stifle a new laugh as we encounter yet another wall.“Nicoli, just let me show you–” I try, though I’m already bracing for him to ignore me. It would be far easier if he let me lead, though. This is my palace, after all. I know the twists and turns, the subtle variations in the endless white corridors. But he seems lost in his resolve. As if doing this out of spite at the challenge and not wanting it to get the bett
Will Bear the Moon Chapter 28 Not Everyone Can Be Happy For You
*Hidi*“But, what about me–” For once in Hidi’s life, her voice was too soft to hear—lost, swallowed under the sound of laughter. Their laughter. Hidi froze, her breath caught in her chest, her words useless in the space they left behind. Her eyes only widened as she stared after them, watching–watching, but not moving in disbelief.The two of them were running, laughing, hands clasped like children lost in their own world. And she was still standing here.She blinked. Did they really just… leave me?The air seemed too still while everything else moved too fast. Nicoli had been right there. Right there. She could have reached out, close enough to brush her fingers against his sleeve. But he hadn’t even looked at her. Didn’t even voice a hello.Not once.His sapphire-blue eyes had locked onto Ana, and nothing else had mattered.For the second time.A cool flick of irritation ran beneath her ribs, lodging itself somewhere deep inside her. She knew this was their grand reunion, knew th
Will Bear the Moon Chapter 27 The Corner
*Ana*Standing between my aunt and uncle in the banquet hall, I must appreciate everyone’s hard work for the party. They really put in a lot of effort.The banquet hall is beautifully decorated with blue and gold streamers cascading down to the center of the high ceiling. Each arched window features a garland of fir and pine, filling the room with a clean yet sweet reminder of the winter outside. The candelabras are all set and lit with fresh beeswax candles, brightening the room and causing the windows to fog up slightly. The tables that line the walls are adorned with an assortment of cakes, meats, and double boilers filled with various types of blood for those who prefer.It’s everything I could have hoped for. And I swell with pride. So far, I think my first real celebration is going well. I gaze over the steady stream of new guests. Once again, I have to note that most of those arriving are unaccompanied men I spot yet another group. They put on a show by bowing or smiling at m
Will Bear the Moon Chapter 26 At Last
*Nicoli*“So… this is Nochten,” Nicoli whispered, his breath barely stirring the cold air. He paused at the threshold, eyes sweeping across the grand lobby. He wasn’t sure what to expect, but it was certainly different from home.His gaze traveled upward, taking in the domed ceiling overhead, the polished stone walls that gleamed in the candlelight. Beneath his feet, a mosaic of a bat soaring toward the moon—Nochten’s national symbol—stood in sharp contrast against the pristine white stone. The palace lacked the excessive paintings and portraits he was used to. Instead of gold trim and plush fabric, there was only carved stone and painted walls. Even the flooring was a departure from what he knew. No wood, only cold, solid stone.Nicoli's eyes caught the mosaic again, its intricate details holding him transfixed. Slowly, a small smile pulled at his lips.It suits her. He thought. Yes, it most definitely did. This was most definitely Ana’s home. But, where was Ana?He stepped further
Will Bear the Moon Chapter 25 Touch Stone And Memory
*King Alexander*Alexander and Bratha walked down the side path leading to the gardens. It took him a moment to realize it, but when he did, he couldn’t help but smile a little. Even after all these years, it felt natural to take this path. The habit was still there after all this time.We always used to meet here.The memory stirred something deep within him—afternoons sprawled on soft blankets, the scent of wildflowers thick in the air, laughter curling between the hedges like vines. If he closed his eyes, he could hear it still—such wonderful times all together. Belidnda, Bratha, Parsul, himself–But when he opened them, all that remained was frost and silence.Now, the garden lay barren, stripped bare by winter. No vibrant petals, no soft grass, only brittle leaves crunching beneath their boots. And between them, a silence stretched too long.It had to be him who spoke first. Bratha would not. Her sense of morality dictated that burden to him.After all, he committed the greatest
Will Bear the Moon Chapter Quick Hello Faster Goodbye
*Hidi*Hidi stood off to the side, her eyes fixed on the doorway. Each time a new arrival was announced, she held her breath, only to sigh in disappointment moments later. It wasn’t him.None of them are, Hidi scanned the room, watching as wave after wave of red-haired vampires entered. She was beginning to grow sick of it.“I’m bored.” Hidi rolled her eyes, crossing her arms. It was becoming a real struggle not to slump to the floor in frustration.“So bored,” She huffed, loud enough for a few nearby vampires to take notice. Some observed her with curiosity, never having seen a giant before. Others, like Sir Celbest, however, seemed eager to make her acquaintance as the Queen of Almony. But Hidi didn’t buy it for one second to be good-willed.Almony was a rich country, and Hidi had long since learned to recognize opportunists. And She met their stares with a hard, flat look, and just like that, their attention turned elsewhere.If only Ana were here. At least then, she’d have someone
