Hey there! you know the deal don't post unless you're Kyubi or myself, feel free to read along if you like though! Thank you!

“Leo,” His mother would call him when he was a mere kid. It was a faint memory. Ever since this curse was bestowed upon him it had forced his memories to perish, especially of when he was a child. Who had bestowed such a curse on him? He couldn’t remember. Such a faint voice would fill his ears of the only memory he had. His mother gave him the brightest smile and would lift his chin. She would then brush his brown hair aside. He would always get upset at her for touching his hair. “Why are you so upset all the time,” She would laugh when saying, so warm yet so chilling at the same time. That was when his memory would slip away from him. He wished he could reach for the faint memory and grasp it with tight fingers so it never left him so suddenly.

“Prince Villa,” The stoic man spoke in a rich tone, forcing him to leave that cherished memory behind. Prince Leon Villa was his name, but no one has ever called him Leon nor the nickname Leo other than the faint memory of his mother. The people of the kingdom always called him Prince Villa. “Your decision?” The stoic man, who carried the name Amon, bowed his head, his lips growing slim. It took a moment for Leon to catch on to what he had been talking about since he had ignored his whole speech due to the memory of his cherished mother. A minor hum, that almost sounded like a tired groan, left his dry throat. “I accept. Give him the three months' worth of coins….no….give him extra since he had willingly volunteered to give up his most pleasant item,” He waved his hand slowly, resting his chin on his fingers. “Yes, my prince,” Amon replied. He lifted his bowed head, staring deep in the eyes of Leon before turning swiftly.

Leon let out an agitated sigh, his eyes closing. His body ached with weakness. It was getting worse and worse. It all happened when he woke up a few years ago. His hair was different when he stared into the golden-rimmed mirror. He used to have brown locks, complementing his amber eyes. His hair was now silver-white. It wasn’t distinct about his age but rather a marking of the curse bestowed upon him. It was unnatural and made him appear more sickly. A marking of death soon to come….

He was young in his mid-20s so it was surprising when his hair had changed colors. He was so enraged waking up that way. That was the mere start of his curse. He slowly developed mild weakness and nausea. Within months his face began to sink in making him look ill all the time. Currently, after years of this curse, he would get sick off of certain foods and would commonly lose his balance. There are more components than that, never allowing him to rest in peace. It only infuriated him more, leaving him to get sicker because of his lack of control over his emotions. He was just lucky to still have his youthful appearance.

-----

Leon blinked a hard time when Amon had already returned. His legs were crossed as he remained perched on his throne. His hand held a bunched fist which held his head up as his elbow rested on the arm of his throne. His foot bobbed up and down like he was impatient as he saw Amon make the girl get on her knees. So harsh to a rather beautiful girl, it was amusing. Leon’s eyebrows lifted with interest. He gestured his hand to the side, a different woman who appeared to be part of the prince’s staff walked over, holding out an alcoholic beverage with a bowed head. Leon grasped the short glass in his weak fingers, the rings on his fingers clinking onto the glass. He took a minor swig of the drink, as he glared down at the lady Amon brought in. It was obvious that Leon was the type to drink his sorrows away, in order to extinguish the physical and mental pain he put up with.

“I assume she is a feisty one, Amon, if you had to put cuffs on her.” He sounded amused, his voice slow yet hasty. He didn’t speak to the young woman directly, not caring to. Amon nodded numbly. Leon rested the cup on the arm of his throne, his fingers holding it by the top of the glass. “Good. I needed someone to keep me on my toes.” He mumbled, his voice hinted with seriousness.

Leon sat there, acting all prestigious and mighty. He was slightly hunched with weakness but he still held his head high. He wore a collared outfit, his shirt unbuttoned to the middle of his chest. Scars could be seen along his collar bone. Over the top of that, he wore a fur cloak laced with fabrics of gold. His eyes were keen, knowing that the girl would protest with harsh words towards him. That wasn’t something he needed at the moment as his sickness came in waves. He currently felt sick which made him pissy.

The moment words came from Avianna’s mouth he sharply stood up, quicker than even he expected, the fur cloak falling off of his shoulders. His hand shoved the glass on the arm of his throne, shattering it to pieces. The glass fell to the ground as well as some of the drink. His hand wasn’t laced with blood, luckily for him. “You don’t speak unless you are spoken to!” He boomed, his voice filling the room. It was so sudden that he heard a minor whimper come from the young woman who had originally handed him the glass. It even made Amon flinch. Leon staggered on his feet but he finally strutted forward. The sunlight that peeked through the windows finally hit his once shaded face. He winced in the sunlight, his eyes had become sensitive over the years. His hair glowed that odd white, slicked back to stay out of his face, yet a few strands fell across his forehead. He towered over her still kneeled body. He didn’t speak a word to her, finally glancing up at Amon. “Take her to the far east room. She will not eat until she learns the formality of how to act in my presence,” Leon finally stated. “Prince Villa, don’t you think you are being a little too harsh?” Amon had the guts to speak. “I am not in the mood to be questioned,” Leon finally turned away weakly, storming out of the room. “See to her and get her washed up. I don’t want filth in my presence,” He told the young woman who had once aquantainced him with the drink he had shattered. She nodded.

Amon just stared before nodding slowly. “Yes, my prince,” His voice was stoned with respect. He harshly brought Avianna to her feet, pushing her forward. A grumble fell out of his lips. She was hastily taken to her room where the young woman accompanied her. Her face was bright as she gave Avianna a welcoming smile. Amon unhooked the chains that bestowed her wrists, turning and leaving the door with a minor slam. He locked the door behind him. When Amon left to accompany the prince the young woman took a step towards the newcomer. “There is no need to be afraid, love. My name is Lana. I will help you get cleaned up as the prince had wished.” She paused before biting her lip nervously. “I promise he is a nicer man than he lets on,” Lana gave a minor smile.

When the cuffs were removed she rubbed her wrists massaging them gently with her fingers as she went over to the bed and sat on the squishy surface ignoring the slam and the lock of the door, despite her stubbornness she couldn't deny that this was different and somewhat cozy... even for a run-down castle, a mattress instead of a cot... soft sheets and blankets that were folded at the end of the bed instead of harsh scratchy blankets. When Lana spoke to her she shook her head getting off the bed with a huff "I can clean myself up thank you." she said her tone only mildly harsh as everything really started to sink in... this was happening her father had actually sold her... she now belonged to this... this so called "Prince". What would become of her? she wondered. When she told her the prince wasn't as mean as he seemed she rolled her eyes "Piss off, I'll believe that when I see it." she grumbled crossing her arms over her chest "Just leave me alone... I can look after myself." she said sternly "Just tell me where to go to wash up." she told her the tone of her voice lightening up a little... she didn't want to be rude to the women... but she hated this... her father had sold her, his own flesh and blood for a few months of rent.

As she thought about it more and more tears sprang to her eyes and she went to the window trying to hide her pain as she clutched the bronze necklace around her neck, looking down at the world below her, she felt as if this was all a dream, that any moment she'd simply fall through the floor beneath her feet and wake up just before she hit the ground to the smell of her father's bakery to go and gather supplies for the bread they'd be making that day. She shook her head and let out a huff brushing her tears away "No tears..." she muttered to herself as she stepped away from the window and back to the bed gently pulling the ribbon from the end of her braid before gently combing her fingers through her wavy hair, now that it was out of the braid it seemed to have grown a few extra inches... it was long enough to drift over her shoulder as she combed her fingers through it in an effort to distract herself from the fact that her life had been completely uprooted "What do you think he'll do with me...?" she asked Lana softly "I don't know how i'll be of any use to him..." she muttered "And by the way... i'm not afraid... i'm pissed." she shot back her voice going just above a murmur but with all the anger she'd desplayed in the throne room behind it.

Amon caught up to the prince and walked step for step in time with him though he remained a few paces away knowing the prince was agaitated. After a while of the footfalls in the hallway Amon spoke "Prince Villa..." he began "She's with Lana being prepped to be in your presence." he assured him his lips pulled into a tight line as he awaited his next orders and kept his steps in time with his prince his hands behind his back as the two of them walked a few moments of silence passing between the two of them before he spoke up again "Might I make a suggetion?" he said "Perhaps she'd be best in the kitchen... afterall she's the bakers daughter... her skills would be of value to you i'm certain... if you decide to do something else with her later of course you can but perhaps the kitchen would be best for now? it might help her ease into this transition..." he told him though he was prepared to be scolded by the prince "I know her manor in the throne room wasn't great but perhaps its because of the transition... I agree she should learn how to speak and act in your presence my prince but I can't imagine its easy for her... I know it wasn't easy for me... sure I was a small child then but even for a grown women having known nothing but a small house and a bakery all her life perhaps this is all... overwhelming." he pointed out before silencing once more once more preparing himself for a scolding.

Lana laughed. Her fervent fingers covering her mouth. “I only thought you would snap at the prince. Women who have a keen tongue are truly a precious breed,” She said kindly, her heart on her sleeve. It was true, nowadays men dominated women so it is rare for woman like Avianna to still have that sharpness there. She did wish she was like that herself yet Lana also knew that that sharpness can be the death of them.

“At least let me prepare a bath for you,” She turned swiftly, watching as Avianna sauntered over to the window. She steadily made her way to the bathroom entering a closed door in her chamber. Opening into the glorious room she paused before glancing back. Why would the prince choose a lavish room for a person he just screamed at? He truly was a mysterious man. She decided not to overthink it. Her hands gripped onto the oils and scrubs lined on a shelf, turning on the water, her knuckles nuzzling the water to check the temperature. When the bath was halfway full she added oils to flourish the skin. Soon the water was turned off.

Lana had slowly emerged from the bathroom, standing in the door frame when Avianna spoke to her. Her eyes sparkled with sheer surprise that Avianna had the capability of speaking in such a soft tone. “The prince is a mysterious man. He has a reason for every action,” She finally stated, almost sounding unsure herself. She gave a tender smile. “It is okay to feel that way...just,” She paused. “...just try not to add fire to fire. He will calm down if you say neutral words. If you fight him, he will only make your life worse,” Lana hated saying that. She didn’t want to break the spirit of such a fiery girl but she did want to keep her safe.

The prince staggered but he eventually halted when he heard Amon behind him. A cold hand was placed on the wall to simply steady himself. His eyes seemed more drained than before. Nowadays he could only last for 3 hours without having to rest. After the 3 hour mark, he truly felt nauseated. He swerved his head, his eyes flashing an odd color. The eyes of a curse. “So she can poison the food?” He asked before pausing, listening to every word Amon spoke. He sighed, not feeling up to this type of conversation. At least it would be a quick end to his hurting life if she did choose to poison him. His quality of life was low and he strived in a forgotten kingdom. What did he have to lose? “Her transition is nothing. She will get over it,” Leon actually spoke in a decently soft sickly tone. But Amon just kept on. “Does it look like I care! She isn’t the one here with the damn curse!” He thundered, but his voice strained more this time. He coughed a harsh time. He had no choice but to be calm or his sickness will get worse in the wave he was currently under. Leon concluded it was best to just shut Amon up and just give him his way. “I will give that spitfire a chance. She will go to the kitchen and make something for me. I don’t care what it is. If I deem her skills necessary then I will give her a chance, if not then she will be locked in her room for as long as I fancy,” Leon staggered away leaving Amon in awe. Amon never experienced the prince succumb to such a suggestion but he would rather take the offer than have it taken away from him at the last minute.

Amon knocked on Avianna’s door before unlocking it. “I have come with good news--” He was about to open the door but had it ripped out of his hand by Lana. Lana had a bewildered look in her eyes. She was a kind-hearted person but she sure did look disturbed. “Please tell me you weren’t about to come into a lady’s chamber without receiving a reply to enter,” She snapped, but her tone never ceased that raw lightness. Amon gave a sheepish grin. “Of course not,” He said boldly, hoping she didn’t notice he was about to turn the knob before he had the door ripped from his grip. “Where is she?” He said about to enter once again. His eyes narrowed when Lana blocked him from coming in. “She is getting washed up,” Lana stated, attempting to hold the calm tone. “May I ask why you came? You stated you had good news,” She added. Amon cleared his throat and nodded. “His Majesty had declared that he was willing to give her a chance. He said she is welcome to tour and cook in the kitchen. However, he wishes her to make him something for him...anything she pleases. If she proves she is worthy, she will be given a job,” Amon exclaimed, sounding almost excited himself, though his tone still carried his raw brute personality.

Lana couldn’t help but look pleased. After a bold conversation with Amon, he had left, locking the door once again behind him. She had awaited Avianna to finish getting washed up. She had planned to help her, as Prince Villa wished but it was probably best that Avianna does some things herself, especially in a new environment. In the meantime, Lana pulled out a gorgeous dress, riveted with minor lace and intricate threading. She laid it out on Avianna’s bed. It was unlike the old stained rags she had worn before. It had this elegance about it that stood out. It was slim enough to work in, although Lana knew it wasn’t ideal to work in such a dress in the kitchen. Avianna would wear whatever she pleased but today wasn’t one of them. She was making something for the prince, it was best to present herself as elegant just this once.

As Avianna emerged from the bathroom, Lana held up the dress. “Hurry and get dressed,” She exclaimed, that smile wider than usual on her face. “I’ve got amazing news,” It was at least amazing for Lana and Amon, she was sure Avianna would only get upset. Lana paused then tilted her head nervously. “It is about Prince Villa--but hold on just give what I have to say consideration!” She stated quickly. “The prince has offered to give you a chance. Later today you will take a tour with Amon in the kitchen….my point is Prince Villa knows you have worked in a bakery and he is asking specifically for you to make him whatever you please. If you catch his eye then he will allow you to step out of your room and work in the kitchen,” By the way she sounded, she knew Avianna didn’t have much of a choice.

By the time she had helped Avianna with preparing for this fine moment, it was finally evening. They had conceded in natural talk and time seemed to slip by. Amon had already knocked and entered, ready to guide her to the kitchen.

“He is giving you a chance. Try to just do as he says. You will get the job, I know it. Afterward, you can go back to feeling the same as when you arrived,” Lana whispered before Avianna left. She knew it was a hard task to ask Avianna to achieve but she was trying to say what was in her best interest.

It was much later in the evening and the sun was beginning to set. It was enough time for Avianna to get washed up and prepared from what he had assumed. Leon was already outside the kitchen at the long table that he ate at regularly. He sat there, his eyes sharp like a thumbtack. His knuckles held up his weak head once again. Amon stepped into the room, bowing his head presenting Avianna who was behind him. Leon’s eyes raised, his eyebrows lifting with amusement. She sure could clean up. Leon didn’t stand up like a normal prince would to acknowledge her presence. He just sat there, once again acting prestigious...hiding the sickness he endured. His breathing staggered for a moment before he plainly gestured towards Avianna. He held back a cough before looking up at her with cold stone eyes. Boy, the glare she gave him never seemed to cease. “I don’t plan on taking up much of your time. Amon has seemed to take a liking to you so I had no choice but to give you a chance. Take as much time as you need, since I don’t want to rivet in the filth you see me as,” He stated, referring to when she claimed he was the only filthy being riveting in his estate.

The moment Amon and Avianna left his vision he left a deep sigh to linger in the room. “Are you sure about this, Prince Villa?” Lana said, emerging into the room. Her eyes were too kind for her own good. “What do you mean,” Leon plainly said, his eyes reaching Lana’s kind face. Lana had helped Avianna get washed as he wished but she still was a servant to the prince, otherwise, she wouldn’t have left Avianna’s room. “I don’t mean to be blunt, but you are sensitive with food,” She approached him, a kind hand on his sick shoulder. “How could I forget. Many of the foods here I can’t eat,” He replied sarcastically. That was one of the downfalls of the curse. He was not only beginning to lose his appetite but he would get sick off of many meals. He would get nauseous the moment it would hit his tongue then later he would usually fall severely ill, having to rest for a day or two. “Then why--” Lana was cut off. “I am making a point,” Leon shot a glare towards Lana, her hand slipping away from his shoulder. She had finally fallen quiet, understanding that that glare he gave her was a mere warning to not go against what he wishes. He was making a point...if only she understood this mysterious man.

I spent like 2 and a half hours on this reply LOL I say 2 and a half because I was interrupted several times lol)

Avianna gave a tiny laugh at her comments “Believe it or not my father is the one who encouraged my keen tongue.” She told her “He’s… well… he’s very untraditional… I think mama had some of the influence there too…” she said trying to keep her tone gentle but it seemed to waver lightly indicating she was still unhappy however she was desperately trying not to be upset with Lana… it wasn’t her fault… she blamed her papa, the prince and Amon not Lana. When Lana told her about the bath she gave a tiny sigh and nodded “Fine… but I can wash myself.” She told her as she combed through her ginger hair with her fingers. She watched as Lana vanished into the bathroom and sighed glancing back toward the window. When Lana returned she said her piece and then listened to Lana, slowly she was growing attached to this women… she was the mother figure Avianna never really had the chance to have as a child… according to her father her mother passed because Avi came along not even allowed the chance to hold her before she passed. Often she’d wondered if her father resented her at least at first, if he did he’d obviously grown to love her after all she was the last link he had to his wife… or so she thought… maybe she wasn’t as important to her father as she’d thought.

She shook herself out of her thoughts and listened to Lana “You don’t sound so sure.” She replied giving a tiny smirk. When she told her not to add fire to fire she sighed and gave a small nod “I’ll try…” she muttered reluctantly “But it’s hard to hold my tongue.” She told her as she stood from the bed and headed to the bathroom. When she entered she was surprised… it was so fancy here… and actual faucet… sink, tub… it was amazing compared to what she’d been used to… bucket after bucket of freezing cold or room temperature water dumped into the horse through that was their makeshift tub… a rough brush for scrubbing themselves clean with a rough brush more commonly used on horses and a bar of soap, but here… an actual tub… sponges steamy water. She was amazed and fascinated with all the different bottles that lined the shelf, she didn’t know what they all were but she did show some curiosity. Eventually she slid out of her clothes not knowing where to put them she left them on the ground before hesitantly sticking a foot in the warm water at the waters warmth she relaxed and sank into the tub ducking underneath the water to ensure her hair was soaked before she began to wash up, she didn’t want to leave the tub but she knew that eventually the water would eventually get cold so she figured she should enjoy it whilst she could. Once she was scrubbed up as best as she could get herself she relaxed in the tub with a content sigh and enjoyed the warm water.

It wasn’t until she heard the knock at the door that she perked up again “L-Lana?” she asked gently though when she heard Lana she covered her mouth giggling at her sharp tone though she couldn’t help but eavesdrop on the conversation between her and Amon. This should be relatively easy… after all if there was one consistency from her previous life in the bakery to her new life here it was the fact that if she did well she’d be working in the most familiar place there could be in a place like this, the kitchen. Of course she had reservations about working for someone she despised but at least if she did well she’d get to stay in the kitchen, somewhere at least somewhat familiar. Soon enough she was out of the tub and wrapped up in a towel as she stepped out of the bathroom she noticed the dress making a sour face at it, she hated dresses… around the bakery she’d proudly wear simple pants and a simple long flare sleeved shirt that tied in the front along with boots… it was much easier to move in and if she could avoid a dress by wearing it… so be it though she didn’t want to upset Lana… not when she was so excited.

She gave a sigh and listened to her “I heard.” She replied giving her a smile but she didn’t try to hide her utter contempt for the prince and Amon alike. She reluctantly took the dress and went behind a small accordion screen to change as she thought of what meal to make for him… with his older stature she figured that like her father he’d need something somewhat small and easy on his stomach… perhaps some toast and fruit? she thought… oh well let’s see what they have in the kitchen first she told herself. “Alright…” she replied “One meal…” she said reluctantly as she stepped out from behind the screen and looked at herself in the mirror… she clearly didn’t care much for the dress… especially not one so fancy… but she did like the purple color… it went well with her hair, even she couldn’t deny that. After Lana braided her hair as it had been before and tied the purple ribbon at the end she looked at herself in the mirror with a sigh, this was so much fancier… almost too fancy it seemed. She was so distracted looking in the mirror she jumped when Amon came in. She looked to Lana for a vote of confidence before she followed Amon down. She gave a reluctant nod at his words but remained silent as they made their way downstairs to the dining hall.

Avianna watched Amon bow before he stepped out of the doorway allowing her to come into the room behind him, she stood there for a moment, she didn’t bow or curtsy and her eyes were like daggers as she scowled at him, a look that if she had the power to do so would have made him dead where he sat. Even as she approached the table it didn’t stop her glare, she was stubborn and despite everything she didn’t plan on giving up on being true to herself for some spoiled piss poor excuse for a prince. She listened to him nodding. At the comment about her seeing him as filth she couldn’t help but open her mouth the words slipping from her lips with such ease “Thank you for your kindness…” she said “I appreciate that you allow me to escape from the scent of your revolting stench…” she told him before she headed off to the kitchen to get started. Amon followed her both amazed and nervous about what the outcome of that outburst would be so as soon as they were in the kitchen he grabbed her arm “Are you mad?!” he asked her “Mouthing off like that is going to get you into trouble, behave yourself.” He snapped at her only to have her yank her arm away from him “Perhaps… but that may mean I can be released sooner doesn’t it?” she asked “No, it means you’ll slowly die from hunger! And he’ll have my head on a pike because I talked him into giving you a chance, perhaps for a change you should think about more than just yourself… I stuck my neck out for you literally and figuratively don’t blow it for the both of us.” He hissed.

Avianna rolled her eyes before she finally scanned the kitchen, endless cupboards and counters lined the walls… the kitchen was bigger than her home and her home and bakery were the same building! There were fruits and veggies all over the counters, multiple sinks and stoves and ovens among other things, it was hard to take it all in but eventually she got her baring’s and went to work, she made a fresh loaf of bread and an egg mixture soaking a slice of the bread in it before she put it in a pan and cooked it lightly asking Amon to keep a watch on it only letting it get lightly toasted on each side whilst she made up some blueberry jam crushing the berries up with the bottom of a glass as she didn’t have her normal bowl and pestle to crush and mix the blueberries up so she had to improvise… it was a relatively round surface so it worked for now. She added a sprinkle of sugar to the mixture before she scooped it out of the bowl with a knife and buttered the toast with the mixture once the sugar was thoroughly mixed in putting some berries on the side for him to eat if he chose.

There was one thing that was certain despite everything she enjoyed being in the kitchen… the entire time she was wearing a smile and working hard, despite hating being here she refused to allow her cooking to falter, when she was finished she was covered from head to toe in flour, bits of unbaked bread stuck on her dress as well as splatters of blueberry jam from where it had sprayed from being mixed. “It’s finished.” She announced to Amon who nodded “Alright… go and present your meal…” he said gently “And please… behave yourself…” he said as she poured some water for the prince “I don’t make promises I can’t keep.” She told him before she left the kitchen and went to the table setting his meal down for him. “My father is older like you…” she told him “If he couldn’t eat anything else this was the one thing he always could eat, he said it would practically melt in his mouth before he swallowed it.” She explained before she stepped away to let him eat Amon guiding her over toward a wall the two of them standing beside it whilst they waited for the prince to eat his meal awaiting what he’d think of it.

Leon’s eyes lit up when they both emerged from the kitchen. It was easy to tell that Avianna still had that pissed look on her face but there was something different. It was like she was happy. Was it just his eyes? She must have truly enjoyed that kitchen. Leon had seized the cup of water from Amon, taking a drink as she presented her meal. He hoped that water would wash away the sickness he felt but no matter what he did nor how much he wished it was gone, it sadly was persistent. As he inhaled the water he abruptly choked on it. What did she just say? Her father was older like him….Did the curse really make him look that old? He cleared his throat, letting her finish. “Older you say.” He babbled, his tone growing bitter. He wasn’t going to argue. He felt too sick to. The thing was...he was about her age. Maybe slightly older by a year or two. It was probably the matte white hair and the sleepless bags under his eyes that threw her off. Lana and Amon both fell quiet, not correcting Avianna for her vast judgment.

“You speak of your father like you still love him. How could you love a man who volunteered to give up his own daughter?” He said, lifting his eyes. He never understood how people could do that. Have someone hurt them yet speak of them like they were something great. A minor hum fell from his throat before he turned his attention back to the plate. It was more simple than what he was used to. It was like commoner's food. It wasn't an insult, thinking it was commoner's food, but it was something that looks delicious unlike the complex yet bland royal food. His amber eyes flashed with fear for a moment as he grabbed his silverware. He didn't know if he would ever be ready to take a bite. “My prince…” Lana tried to interrupt to keep him from eating it. She had seen him sick before and it wasn’t a pretty picture. Leon ignored her and cut a piece taking a bite. The flavors were gorgeous for her whipping this up in a timely manner. There was this boldness to it, a taste that he long missed. He would have eaten the whole thing then and there yet, the flavor was soon tainted by nauseousness. The illness suddenly washed over him, the curse present once again in his system. His eyes flashed that odd color again, from cold amber eyes to gold. It only lasted a second before they became normal again. Leon coughed suddenly, his silverware falling to the table. Leon stood up with his hands square on the table, partially hunched over like he was out of breath. “Prince Villa, it isn’t that bad is it?” Lana asked, her eyes flashing towards Avianna in nervousness. “No,” He said, his voice strained. “I just…” He let out a heavy breath. Leon was supposed to make a point but he didn’t expect her dish to get to him this much.

The curse, ‘blessed’ upon him by an unknown entity. All he could remember was a figure but his vision was too blurry to put a face to it. A tainted shadow that washed away his memories, killing his pride...destroying his kingdom. One that grew worse over the years, slowly deteriorating his body. He was sick all the time, some days better than others. He was lucky to just have nausea and dizziness but that was once in a blue moon. Most days he gets sick off of a single bite of food. It was like the curse was mocking him. He needed to eat to survive yet it wouldn’t let him. Nothing but pure torture. Most of the time he had to force down his meals and put up with the sickness. The only thing he could regularly eat was bland soups without feeling sick.

Leon grimaced before looking up at Avianna. His eyes were watery almost like he was going to cry. His silver-white hair fell in his face, but he was too disturbed to push the strands away. “Take her away,” He finally said, his voice bland and cold. Amon nodded and ushered her out of the room. Leon didn’t want her to see him like this. A mighty prince, soon to be king, he was supposed to be. He would never become a gracious ruler in this condition. A young prince, who looks older than what he is. One who couldn’t eat a simple meal because of a curse?

Amon stood there nervous, almost like he himself didn’t know what was going on. Deep down he did know what was going on. But soon he turned his attention to Avianna. “The prince isn’t old. You are lucky he didn’t make a scene,” His voice hinted with seriousness but he soon sighed. He looked frustrated but he knew Avianna truly tried on that dish.

Lana persisted there beside him worried. “You can’t keep doing this Prince Villa. Just to make a point? You will deteriorate if you keep--,” She grabbed his arm to steady him but he pulled away. She flinched. His head hung low, his hands still on the table as he took deep breaths. “Enough, Lana. I am already deteriorating. I don’t want your pity,” His voice strained. It took him a while to speak again. He lifted his head, locking eyes with Lana. She gulped not knowing what he planned to say or do. “I found the dish satisfying. I can tell she enjoys what she does for a living.” He paused and gulped, his eyes squeezing shut as nausea and dizziness grew worse. Leon felt like he was going to pass out if he kept talking but his stubbornness got the best of him. “She can work in the kitchen whenever she wants.” He finally said, his voice barely a whisper now. Lana nodded. “Please, you need rest Prince Villa,” She seized his arm and helped guide him out of the kitchen.

It took a while to bring Prince Villa to his chamber but Lana soon found Amon and Avianna. She approached them, her steps slow and steady as she tried to remain composed. Her cheeks were flushed with anxiety. It was obvious that she was nervous over what transpired in that room. She didn’t know how to explain what happened. The last thing that she wanted to do was imply that he was sick. “He truly did like it,” She said slowly. For some reason, she knew that wouldn't convince Avianna. “You can ask him yourself when he feels better. He said that he could tell that you enjoy what you do for a living and that you can cook any time you want,” She locked eyes with Amon before turning her attention back to Avianna, but that warm smile didn’t come to her face. She now found herself finding a way to what exactly happened. A normal prince wouldn’t just have a coughing fit, absorbed with distress, and ask his ‘guest’ to leave. “I feel so guilty for not telling you. He can eat a variety of berries but he is allergic to some of them. Luckily it was just a mild reaction,” Lana didn’t like to lie but she knew the Prince didn’t like his secrets let out. He wasn't allergic at all. Truly, he was tainted with a vicious curse that never let him have peace, torture within itself. But she wasn't going to say that to Avianna.

Avi was brighter after being in the kitchen… despite everything it was the one place that truly felt like home right now, being in the kitchen gave her great comfort even though she still held nothing but anger for her captors but after being in the kitchen she was much calmer. She gave him a dubious look when his tone grew bitter… she knew her father didn’t like being called either however though it was a simple fact… he was an older gentlemen. His sunken features, the grey/white hair… the stiff movements the sickness and inability to eat much other than a few items… it was only natural to conclude that he was an old man like her father… that was the only conclusion she could draw, she didn’t see any harm in it really. When she was questioned about her father she approached the table once more “I loathe the man right now for selling his own flesh and blood…” she told him “Just about as much as I loathe you right now for buying me…” she told him “But he’s the only family I’ve got.” She told him. “I can’t exactly be angry at the only family I have left forever can I…? I won’t forgive him for what he’s done… ever…” she said bitterly “But he’s the only family I’ve got… I haven’t any brothers or sisters… not even a mother.” She told him her eyes dimming with another emotion, the fiery light in her eyes that matched her hair even in her blue eye faded out a little as she looked at him “I can’t ignore the one blood family member I have.” She told him before she stepped away beside Amon.

Avianna watched the prince with curiosity just like any other chef… or even a child who had made their first meal would look at his/her parents with such curiosity to see whether they’d like it or not. Her attention turned to Lana when she spoke up throwing a curious look her way as well though the scraping of the silver wear when he cut the bread watching curiously a frown crossing her face when he started coughing, despite hating the man she was sad that he didn’t seem to like her meal it was a little disheartening. Had her father lied to her all this time? She wondered, she’d never made food for anyone but him and he always would tell her that it was good. She gave a small sigh and met the prince’s eyes his cold words made her feel worse about her cooking. She let Amon usher her out of the room without a fight in fact she led the way out of the room.

When Amon spoke to her she glared at him “Don’t” she hissed “Just don’t… I know he doesn’t care for me… I don’t care for him either but he could have simply said he didn’t like it… he didn’t have to put on that display.” The brief happiness she’d experienced earlier was long gone replaced by a mix of anger and sadness before she went up to her room Amon following after her as he tried to explain in a way she’d understand without of course telling her about the curse. He was more than grateful when Lana showed up “Perhaps you can talk to her…” he said finally, he’d noticed that the two seemed to have gotten on fairly well so perhaps Lana was the better one to speak with her… especially about something that was so sensitive. He knew she was hurting and he didn’t seem to be making it any better so he left the two alone after locking eyes with Lana a silent agreement passing between them before he left, that was the prince’s secret to tell not theirs though at the same time… he felt Avianna had a right to know.

Avianna was sat on the floor by her bed by the time Lana joined her, her arms resting on her knees as she sat there in the filthy dress. “Please don’t patronize me… He hated it, why else would he have put on that display?” she muttered though she perked up a little when she explained that it had been an allergic reaction. “R-really?” she asked hesitantly “An allergy…?” she said gently looking at Lana her eyes squinting as if she was trying to discern weather that truly was the case or not at the same time though it made sense to her… after all it’s not like nobody in her village had allergies… she could name customers who couldn’t have certain things because they themselves or their children had allergies. Her face softened a little when Lana finished speaking “I’m sorry…” she said gently scooting closer to her “I wish you’d of told me that he was allergic… I hate the man but I didn’t want to do that, especially not when it’s the first meal I made for someone other than my father.” She said gently giving a small sigh “I wish you’d told me sooner…” she admitted “But I suppose it’s better late than never.” She told her before she stood once more offering Lana a hand to help her stand before she looked down “I kind of ruined this dress…” she said “But I do love the color…” she told her gently. Avi glanced over to the window with a sigh, the sky had faded into different hues of colors, purples, yellows, pinks and oranges even the beginnings of some nighttime blue lit up the sky like a beautiful abstract painting. “I suppose I should get cleaned up again.” She said “Maybe I should clean up the kitchen first though…” she admitted “I kind of made a mess…” she said gently.

(If you wanna do a skip to like the next day or something go for it :) I was able to be on for a bit longer tonight so I got my reply in xDD)

(Sorry if this sounds a bit scatterbrained. I was kind of tired when writing this xD)

“It is truly my fault,” Her face only grew flushed. Her eyes glazed over with sheer worry but she finally let out a small laugh to break the tension. “It is amazing how quickly you change when hearing what occurred. You truly are out to get the prince, unless you have pity on him for a mistake,” She snickered before helping Avianna to her feet. She was happy to finally be able to talk to someone who isn’t an irritating guy. Most of the time she would spend her days around Amon who was always cocky and Leon who was just plain temperamental. She was happy to have some break time from them. “Don’t overthink it. Prince Leon Villa will truly be fine.” Lana said waving her hand to dismiss the event that took place before. “Just get changed and get some rest. I will keep in mind that you will need a different type of attire for the kitchen,” She tilted her head with that gracious smile. She eyed Avianna's dress, taking in the stain marks. Less than a day of cooking and she had ruined a dress. It was more funny than upsetting. Lana cut her off to cease her worry. “The kitchen will get cleaned. Just get some rest,” She ushered her away from the door. “I will come in the morning.” She said before leaving the room. Lana would have helped her get to bed like she usually does with Leon, but Avianna was more independent than the Prince.

---

Why did he buy Avianna? It wasn’t a natural transaction for anyone to fulfill. No regular being would buy a woman just for the hell of it. That old man came to Amon when he was in town one day. Amon usually made regular trips into town for the prince since he was too sick to go out himself. The old man was specifically begging that his daughter be sold to him. The way Amon dressed, showing that he had wealth, obviously intrigued him. He needed the money. A young woman like Avianna in a transaction she didn’t know of. Amon didn’t make a decision right away but rather talked with Leon first. Leon had refused numerous times but Amon persisted like usual. He finally succumbed to it. Why? Well, he had his reasons. If an old man was that desperate to sell his own daughter then he will possibly go to a person who wouldn’t treat her well. Someone who would use her. Leon had agreed so she could have a life. Yet somehow he was always the bad guy.

Leon had persisted in his chamber for most of the morning. He had the most restless sleep, shifting and rolling to try and get comfortable. He would drift in and out of sleep that just made him even more tired. By the morning, many have knocked on his door to make sure he was okay but he only pushed them away. He truly didn’t want to deal with people right now. Leon laid there in his silk sheets, his amber eyes staring up at the ceiling. He felt cold, very cold, yet sweat dribbled down his forehead. His breathing was harsh. Lana knocked on his door and she entered when he refused. Lana knew something was up when she wasn’t allowed in. “Prince Villa you have been in your room all morning, if you…” She hesitated, walking over to his bed. Leon was wrapped in blankets, trying to force the coldness he felt away. “Are you feeling well?” She asked, holding the back of her hand against his forehead. She cooed softly like he was a young child who had gotten sick. “You seem to be running a fever,” She stated. It was common for him to run a fever at least once every week. Another part of the curse. “You need to cool down, my prince,” She said beginning to tug on his sheets. “I feel cold, hands-off,” he pleaded like a child. Leon jolted up, even when he wasn’t feeling great. He tugged the sheets back like two siblings fighting over a toy. Sure he was an ass sometimes with his harsh personality but sometimes he truly just acted like a child. They soon began to argue. Lana was pleading with him, still trying to maintain her respect for him, while Leon spoke in his normal bitter tone. As they continued to argue, a crowd of the kingdom workers started gathering outside his door. “Is everything okay?” They murmured to each other. They had concern plastered on their faces. “He must be having a tantrum again,” They began to murmur. Suddenly the door swung open. Lana hurried out, the prince yelling behind her. His hair was kinky and his face flushed. Without saying a word he slammed the door behind her. Lana sighed, why was he such a child?

Leon returned back to his bed, covering himself with the covers again. He groaned in irritation, wishing he could escape this never-ending sickness. Lana in the meantime found Avianna. Lana had a wrinkle in her brow out of sheer stress. She took a few minor gasps before speaking, almost like she was out of breath. “The prince is sick. He is running a horrible fever. Not only that but is upset at me and he won’t let anyone into his room. Maybe if you make him some chilled soup? He is nicer to newcomers,” She asked pleasantly, her eyes glittering with hope. She wasn’t just asking her because she was new. She was asking her because she knew she would set Leon straight. Sure, Leon was much more lenient on the new arrivals like Avianna but he was too stubborn to listen to anyone. It was because the majority of those in the kingdom were passive and bowed down to him. Luckily for her, Avianna wasn’t one of those people. Maybe she could say a few sharp words to get Leon to listen.

Everyone had gone back to work, stopping their gossiping outside the Prince’s door. Meanwhile, Leon was curled up in his sheets. It wasn’t best to be snuggled up in his sheets since he was overheating even though he felt cold. He didn’t find himself caring. At least this was somewhat better than nausea and dizziness. His breathing grew slow as he drifted into a light sleep. He would wake up at any minor noise but slowly drift back to sleep.

No problem! I’m scatterbrained myself today… walked all the way down to the mailboxes (we live in like a mobile home community so there’s a place with everyone’s mailboxes) and I went all the way down to the mailboxes without my key xDD)

Avianna laughed with her when she laughed “No pity here for anyone but you…” she replied “Having to deal with these men all day long it’s a wonder you’ve stayed sane!” Avianna replied as she got up. She was glad to have Lana, she truly did enjoy her company, she looked at her as both a close friend and a mother figure… she already cherished her. Avi gave a nod “Alright then.” She told her dropping the issue. “Alrght…” Avi cooed gently “Thank you…” she said gently before she looked down at her dress a small giggle leaving her, truthfully whilst she loved the color… she hated the style of the dress part of her was glad she’d ruined it. When she mentioned the kitchen and Lana cut her off she looked up at her giving a small sigh “Alright…” she said gently “See you in the morning Lana.” She cooed gently “Goodnight.” She said as Lana closed the door.

The next morning Avi was already up and in the bath (After figuring out the faucet) She was used to getting up this early… usually she’d get up, change out of her bedclothes and go out and collect wood for the oven and berries and other supplies they’d need for the day but here… what was she suppose to do? She wondered. After she was dried and dressed she headed down and did some exploring before she found herself in the kitchen and decided to busy herself by cooking meals for her and the staff, it was mostly breaded items with jams and jellies they could choose from if they pleased, there was fresh bread and an assortment of muffins for the staff, it was tedious work but she didn’t know what else to do, here was so different from home helping her papa she rarely had a moment to herself now with other people around to do part of what she normally did she had no idea what to do with herself… So, after she finished making all the food she grabbed a muffin and headed off to explore the castle a little though she quickly took note of the lack of staff around… where were they all…? She wondered eyeing the halls suspiciously as if she were expecting someone to jump out from a hallway to scare her because she was new and didn’t know their tricks.

Avi startled when Lana found her looking curiously at her seeming to recognize she was stressed she put her hands on her shoulders rubbing them gently as she tried to get her to relax. When she told her the prince was sick “I’ll try I suppose…” she shrugged “You sit and take a rest.” She told her before heading off. After she prepared the chilled soup she put it on a trey with a cup of water and took it to his chambers knocking gently before she entered setting the trey on the table by his bed “I’ve brought you some chilled soup.” She said flatly. She didn’t care for this man… but he couldn’t help but feel a little sorry for him… after all… she hadn’t had to deal with whatever made him so sickly but she knew what it was like to be sick… it was miserable and she hated it each and every time. “Perhaps you should stop being stubborn and try to eat something.” She scolded lightly prying the sheets from his grasp and tossing them aside on the floor with a sigh “If you’ve got a fever you shouldn’t be burrowing under the covers… the first thing you should be doing is trying to get your fever down.” She said sternly heading off into the bathroom and grabbing a rag and rinsing it under some cool water before ringing it out, folding it and coming back into the room setting it aside before she sat him up propping up his pillow and putting the cool rag on his neck before setting the soup in his lap. “Eat what you can… when your temperature is down I will give you your blankets and sheets back.” She told him firmly “And quit being such a child.” She said sharply.

Apologies for the shortness by the way :) like I said scatterbrained lol but I did what I could :) )