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sharpen-your-hatchet · 1 year ago

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What I Feel; What I Do; What I Want || Wenclair fic - Chapter 3

Description: "Frankly, all her life, she has felt separation between what she feels, what she does, and what she actually wants. Being royalty means there's often little room for opinion and desire [...]; Enid wonders how it'll feel to have her ingrained sense of duty be pitted against her unshackled curiosity. "

Six months past her 19th birthday - Enid, princess of The Kingdom of Nevermore, is allowed the chance to travel and explore the world as she sees fit. Unfortunately, it comes with a little caveat... in the form of some unwelcome company for protection. Cue Wednesday Addams, the only knight deemed worthy, and who is now Enid's personal thorn in her side.

Can they work together despite their differences? Or maybe fate has an entirely different plan for them altogether...

Pairing: Wednesday Addams / Enid Sinclair

Rating: Teens & Up

Word Count: 9,896

Click Here To Read On AO3 or read below!

x-x-x-x-x-x

A few days have passed, and Enid finds herself on her fifth day of travelling, already feeling a million miles from the person she was at the start. Emotionally; physically – in such a short amount of time, everything feels different.

They’re in the hills now, having passed through a number of trading posts, stables, and inns. The journey has been unlike anything she’s experienced… challenging, and yet freeing and somehow easy to adapt to. Admittedly, she misses some of the luxuries of her castle home – her clothing, the magnificent kitchen and its staff, not to mention the feel of crawling into her own bed each night. These have all been replaced with the same hand-washed travel outfit, basic but homely cooking, and whatever bunk, cot, or hammock they can find.

It’s different. But she kind of likes it.

It’s helped immensely by all she’s discovering as they pass through these places. It is hard to feel hard done by when you are seeing and learning such amazing things. Mostly, it’s the stories, and the unrecorded local history; Enid’s writing hand aches at the end of each day, but still she eagerly writes on. There’s just so much the world needs to hear! Most intriguing is the myths and legends – inn patrons and stable workers recounting the versions of these stories that have been passed down to them. The most reoccurring story is generally the same, with some mysterious figure of legend stopping an evil force, therefore allowing the land of Nevermore to flourish, but with a vaguely ominous warning that the evil will return. It seems silly in some respects – ancient heroes and demonic evils - but Enid is fascinated by how such a story has come to exist within the hearts and minds of everyone. She writes down each retelling, noting the slight differences. She hopes that with some time she can tie the whole legend together into a cohesive story with explained deviances. This is the kind of thing she had been yearning for the whole time she waited for this journey.

Though perhaps the most curious part of this journey so far has been her companion. Five days in and she and Wednesday have (much to Enid’s behest) barely even begun to know each other. Admittedly, Enid has been challenging the little knight, trying to push her buttons and see what makes her tick… but she’s impossible to figure out! It is evident that Wednesday cares not for this travelling, or Enid herself in fact – yet, she continues to be endlessly dutiful. It is perplexing to say the least. Enid feels a strange fondness for Wednesday, not that she would say as much. Though, she does wish it was shared. All she can drag out of the knight at the moment is sighs, glares, and the occasional unamused comment. She just wishes there was a modicum of excitement so she could share her passion.

Alas, Wednesday seems intent on not getting any closer. It’s mildly upsetting but Enid is determined to not let it hurt her too much… she already cares too greatly for her parents approval, so vying for Wednesday’s at the same time seems a little excessive. Not that she can help herself sometimes.

Like now. She and Wednesday are travelling through a rocky pass, uphill towards the lakes and rivers that are the source of all other water in the kingdom. It is the home of the sirens, and is their first major stop! Enid is practically bursting with excitement!! Even better, along the route there are small alcoves with huge carved tablets, recounting local history and even more legends to write down.

As they travel, Enid stops them along the way. She sketches the tablets and summarises their words with an upbeat fervour. Wednesday remains on her horse, keeping a look out, seeming entirely disengaged.

Enid turns to her and waves her hand. Wednesday glances over, raising an eyebrow as if to ask ‘what do you want?’. Enid then turns back to the tablet she is copying down, tapping her quill against the page of her notebook as she thinks. Wednesday might not care but Enid’s planning to talk, regardless.

“Do you believe in the legends?” Enid asks as she scribbles down some more words. “Seems amazing that everyone knows the story… like it can’t be coincidence.”

She turns back to Wednesday, seeing now that her raised brow has returned to a scowl. Wednesday thinks the question is ridiculous, certainly. Enid doesn’t see why. Considering the number of magical creatures and beings that exist within the kingdom, people believing in ancient legends doesn’t seem too far-fetched, even if the stories themselves are pretty separated from reality… Though, perhaps she is naive to think Wednesday would have any sort of belief that isn’t rooted logic and proof. Sigh. Enid would love some common ground.

“They’re just stories.” Wednesday replies, voice devoid of emotion. Enid knows she shouldn’t be disappointed by the answer… but she kind of still is. Any kind of thought, feeling, or opinion that places Wednesday outside of the dark little box she’s placed herself into would be extremely welcome, but she remains consistently stoic and unfeeling. Even if they’ve only known each other for five days, Enid feels as though she may never get to see anything else from the knight.

Enid knows she can’t let it get to her… So she returns to her notebook; keeps excitedly writing, and smiles to herself as she thinks upon the way her father would recount the ‘stories of old’ to her as a child.

“I think there’s some truth in them.” she muses as she walks closer and presses her hand against the carved rock of the tablet monument. The stone is cold to the touch, soothing the new callouses that have grown on Enid’s hands. It feels familiar under her hand, like the stone brick the royal castle is built from. It’s oddly comforting, and in a way, reaffirms Enid’s belief. The feeling of the stone connects her to home, as the words carved upon it connect her to history. There has to be truth in them – there just has to be! And there’s only more out there to learn. They need to get to the Siren's Domain and find out more. Enid quickly finishes writing, and returns to her horse.

“You ought to have more belief.” She chides as she takes the reigns from Wednesday and climbs onto Sol.

Wednesday simply looks at her, before slowly directing Nero to continue on the trail. Enid follows soon after, taking a final glance at the carved rock as it disappears from sight upon moving uphill. From then on they travel quietly but quickly; Enid decidedly keeping her excitement at bay. Though, it is hard the hide the grin that she finds sprawling across her face as the elegance of the Siren's Domain begins to appear.

Despite this being their first major stop, Enid cannot deny this is the one she’s looked most forward to. From the crystal clear waters, to the beautifully carved stonework that creates the buildings and platforms for visitors – The Siren's Domain is a treat for the eyes. Previously she had only seen it through paintings and sketches, so watching it come into view is beyond breathtaking. Oh, she cannot wait to meet and talk with the locals.

Enid glances at Wednesday. Her expression is unchanged, locked in her permanent scowl. Typical.

They draw closer, and Enid realises now she should probably face the reality of why she’s actually here. She’s been avoiding the truth since they set off, but with the domain in sight, she has to face the reality – the very reason she was allowed this adventure in the first place. Her werewolf powers... Or, more accurately, lack thereof.

As much as she wants to ignore the whole thing and simply travel, learn, and write to her hearts�� content… she has to uphold her duty. Which means at least fulfilling all the various tasks listed to her by her parents prior to setting off. She could - of course - simply not do them, but considering Wednesday’s loyalties, she suspects that it would be hard to hide upon their eventual return to the castle. Not to mention she may still lack her ability to shift and the shame that would bring is too embarrassing to even imagine… So really, she has little choice. Fortunately this first task seems simple - she needs to locate the royal pool and partake in a ritual with the ancient waters within Which seems easy enough. The siren royalty are amicable allies, so they should be more than welcoming.

Enid and Wednesday pass a few more tablet monuments during the final stretch of the journey. A mix of excited and concerned over what’s to come, Enid lets herself write down the engraved words slower than before, giving her time to mentally chew over it. It doesn’t seem difficult, but it weighs on her nonetheless…

Wednesday, unaware of this, seems particularly impatient now. She stares at the Siren's Domain in the distance with a subtle tension in her jaw. Her hands are tight around the reigns of her horse, eyes stuck on her one focal point in the distance. Enid wishes she could know what was going through her head… but she doubts she’d get an answer even if she did ask.

Enid finishes her notes and scrambles back onto her horse. She takes a deep breath and sets herself to continue.

“Are we ready?” She asks – mostly to herself, if anything.

Wednesday looks at her, eyes narrowing slightly. Right, of course… obviously, she is ready.

Fortunately, the last of the journey is short and it takes a little over ten minutes to exit the rocky pass and cross into the lightly forested clearing that leads into the lakes, waterfalls, and rivers that make up the domain. There’s a narrow but ornate bridge built of stone above the water that leads into the centre of the lake, allowing walking visitors to easily enter. It’s all rather elegant and reminds Enid of home… Though she’s unsure if that’s a good thing.

They leave their horses at the small stables before the bridge, and then start the journey on foot into the domain itself. It’s a difficult place to describe – though, this does not stop Enid trying. She pauses about midway on the bridge, scribbling again in her notebook, making sure to exaggerate her awe at both the craftsmanship of the domain and how fascinating it is to see sirens freely swimming through the waters. It’s amazing, getting to see them in their home!

Though it would seem the sentiment is not shared. Glancing behind her, it’s hard to not notice the distaste on Wednesday’s face. Surprisingly, it is different look from her regular scowl, but not by much.

“Not a fan of the Siren’s Domain?” Enid queries.

“I don’t trust sirens.” comes Wednesday’s blunt response.

Enid rolls her eyes. “You don’t trust anyone.”

She says it in a good natured tone, but the sharpening of Wednesday’s glare tells her that she’s best to not say any more. Not that it would change anything since Wednesday has no option to follow her anyway. “But the sirens here are nice. They’re our allies.”

Wednesday seems unconvinced, but keeps any snarky comment to herself. Good, as Enid wants to focus on enjoying her time before duty calls.

They traverse the bridge, approaching the small town of stone buildings that cover an island in the middle of the lake. Each building is unique in size and shape, some partially built into existing hills, others shaped as to allow easy passage back into the water. The buildings are beautiful and sophisticated, but practical – which makes sense, sirens are known for their air of elegance and very much care about keeping up appearances. Though, it also makes sense the number of buildings is relatively small, seeing as sirens much prefer the water.

When they finally enter, Enid feels excitement flutter in her chest; her minor angst melting against its warmth. They’re here! They’re finally here!! She gets to explore and talk to the locals, and try their dishes, and sleep in one of their strange water beds. Oh there’s just so many things she wants to do!

She takes a few steps into the town, taking it all in. This is definitely more thrilling than nerve-wracking. Enid grins, turning back to Wednesday.

“Isn’t it amazing here?”

Wednesday doesn’t answer; glancing away, she shoots a suspicious look at any sirens and other townsfolk that pass them. She then pulls out something from one of the pouches on her uniform – a neatly folded paper. Opening it, she reads briefly, her brow twitching ever so slightly. Then she slots it back away. Her eyes swivel back over. Then they dart to the building in the middle of the domain… tothe building that leads underground to the fountain that houses the ancient waters. Without another word, she begins to march over.

Of course. Her parents gave Wednesday a list. Suddenly, Enid isn’t so excited any more.

“Wednesday!” Enid calls out as she follows after her. “Hey, let’s no-”

Wednesday stops and turns back, one eyebrow quirked upwards. Her head tilts slightly as if warning Enid to not test her.

Enid, however, does not appreciate this attempt to intimidate her. As knights go, Wednesday is definitely a little scary, but Enid knows better – knows they’re stuck together, and that ultimately, Wednesday can’t push her luck too far.

Enid takes a breath, then smiles.

“We’re not going to the ancient waters yet.”

A frustrated expression twitches onto Wednesday’s face, but it’s gone almost immediately. She opens her mouth, poised to release a scathing remark when-

“You must be Princess Enid.”

Enid is miraculously saved by the appearance of an unknown saviour. Turning to the doorway of the middle building, there now stands a proud looking siren with piercing pale eyes and dazzling dark skin that shimmers in the daylight. She smiles at Enid.

“And you must be-” the siren pauses upon looking at Wednesday, frowning slightly as her eyes drag up and down the knight’s form. “Wednesday, was it? The Prince Consort did send a letter.”

It dawns on Enid now who their new friend is, and whilst it is not unwelcome company, it is – to put it lightly – an inconvenient meeting. The person standing before them is Bianca. Enid recognises her from a portrait that hangs in the meeting room of the castle. She is essentially the princess of the Siren’s Domain, though, the actual siren term is different and escapes Enid’s memory. Unfortunately, with Bianca here it means she is now truly is stuck committing to the ritual, lest she wish to upset the schedule of the siren royalty… and considering their ally ties, and general etiquette, Enid very much does wish to cause an issue. The disgrace alone would measure up to the disgrace brought on by Enid not doing the ritual in the first place. Ugh. Sometimes Enid wishes there wasn’t so many rules. So much for the excitement, after all… it will have to wait. Just like all her dreams do.

Enid pulls her smile wider and does a slight curtsey.

“Bianca, heir to the siren throne,” She acknowledges. “It is a pleasure to finally meet.”

Wednesday does not curtsey despite a subtle nudge. Enid notices that Wednesday’s jaw is tensing, metaphorically chewing on those words she was unable to say.

“An honour.” She says stiffly. It seems Wednesday did not intend to speak to Bianca herself, and her distaste is as subtle as a rock through glass.

Considering her attitude, Enid doesn’t think Wednesday deserves much mercy, but she’s willing to offer it so that no one ends up on the wrong end of a blade – of which she knows Wednesday has many.

“Wednesday,” Enid chimes sweetly. “Could you get our rooms prepared at the inn? I’ll be perfectly safe with Bianca here.”

Wednesday looks at Enid; blinks once, then twice. There’s an air of suspicion in her glance, but seemingly an unwillingness to question a free reason to disengage. She nods, shuffling her sword and gear, before heading towards the inn.

Bianca watches Wednesday walk off with a tight smile.

“She seems… interesting.”

“Interesting is the right word,” Enid agrees.

“So then,” Bianca continues, clasping her hands together. “I hear you’re partaking in one of our ancient water rituals for your werewolf powers, correct?”

Enid feels her stomach tighten at the mention. It really does feel too soon… she hasn’t gotten to witness enough yet! Why can’t she just have some fun before getting down to business?!

“Yes, I’m looking forward to it.” She lies.

The conversation that follows is a whirlwind of information that Enid barely has time to process. It feels like a history lesson at first – things Enid has heard during her school studies as a child, before it leads into a more personal tale, that recounts how her family and Bianca’s came to be allies. All the while Bianca takes her on a small loop of the domain. Unfortunately, with there being no stops in this quick tour, Enid does not have even a moment to get personal enjoyment… instead, she feels ferried around and paraded; very much the opposite of what she had wanted out of all of this. It is however mercifully short, and she and Bianca end up back at the entrance of the middle building not much time later. The efficiency is almost ruthless, though it is reflective of what she expected from a high ranking siren such as Bianca. Perhaps she would respect it more if the circumstances were different.

Regardless, it seems as though the time for the water ritual to begin is soon to be upon her.

Enid smiles as much as she can, despite the way her heart falters. She knows she’ll have some time later but it certainly feels as though – even with this being her adventure – somehow her parents and her ‘duty’ still find ways to surpass her own wants.

“Well… are you ready?” Bianca asks. She extends her hand towards the doorway, inviting Enid inside.

Ah well. Better just grin and bare it. It’ll be just fine.

Enid pulls a smile onto her face.

“Of course.”

She takes one last look around before heading inside, knowing it’ll be a couple hours at the least until she emerges again. The ancient water ritual culminates in bathing, but there’s some other important steps prior – changing into the ritual clothing, some minor ‘soul opening’ magic, etc. It’s quite the process so she’s heard. Hopefully it will not be boring, at least.

As she takes one final glance around, Enid notices something. A pair of eyes trained on her. Intense; unwavering, and locked in a glare that feels like a promise… Of what, exactly? Enid isn’t sure. Protection, maybe. She cannot help feel struck by the way Wednesday watches her like a hawk, vigilant despite being told she doesn’t need to be…

How strange…

But with no time to think on it, the moment passes. Enid’s eyes pull away from Wednesday’s, and the knight is all but forgotten as Enid is lead away to fulfil her duties.

#Wenclair #Wednesday x Enid #Enid x Wednesday #fanfic #Fantasy AU #Zelda inspired #Slow burn #enemies to friends to lover

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sharpen-your-hatchet · 10 months ago

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What I Feel; What I Do; What I Want || Wenclair fic - Chapter 4

Can they work together despite their differences? Or maybe fate has an entirely different plan for them altogether...

Pairing: Wednesday Addams / Enid Sinclair

Rating: Teens & Up

Word Count: 12,322

Click Here To Read On AO3 or read below!

x-x-x-x-x-x

It’s been two days since the ritual Enid had partaken in and Wednesday finds herself feeling full of thought. They’re travelling again now – uphill, on the path to their second main location: a small humble town renown for its farms and food. Wednesday had expected some sort of begging or hopeful negotiation to stay longer in the Siren’s Domain…. Yet here they are, Enid strangely quiet and obedient on following their route. It seems unlike Enid to not dawdle, but Wednesday will not question the thankful silence.

The town they’re travelling to is unfamiliar to Wednesday. Though, thanks to the other knights back home, she understands the place they are heading is rather “pretty”, and that the food is some of the best in the kingdom. Their company was seldom wanted, but Wednesday must admit to herself that knowing about this place due to the other knights makes her less inclined to grumble. After all, knowledge is power. This upcoming town seems bearable, especially when opposed to where they just came from. Not to mention that seeing the Siren’s Domain disappear into the distance as she and Enid travel is a small blessing – To Wednesday at least. She expects Enid to feel quite the opposite, not that she cares.

Something Wednesday recalls of this town is the other knights fondly recounting a bakery there, one with food to ‘die for’. Wednesday is unsure whether they mean food containing literal poisons or food so good it’s worth dying over - which is ridiculous as a notion - but she hopes it is the latter. Alsoit rains a lot in this town, which is something the other knights complained about… Unsurprising though, as she finds many of the knights to be incredibly whiny. They likely were too dumb to realise the large volume of rain contributed to the success of the crops. To Wednesday, such miserable weather sounds wonderful; frankly, it’s been far too sunny for her taste. Not to mention the nice weather only encourages more of Enid’s irritating habit of dropping everything and running off to draw or write. Less of that would be ideal.

Alongside the other knights opinions, Enid also claims this town to be nice, according to the books and paintings she’s seen. Enid says everything is nice though, so Wednesday can’t exactly take that as a glowing review. She spoke greatly of the Siren’s Domain and all it was, was a bunch of carved rocks filled with sirens who would hypnotise you given the chance. Wednesday tried to give benefit of the doubt but between her general animosity towards the princess and the fact she finds sirens to be stuck-up and not to be trusted… well, safe to say, Wednesday will choose doubt from now on. She isn’t sure why she decided to deviate from such a decision in the first place, especially when there are many more places to visit. Fortunately, Wednesday is at least familiar with a few of these locales so she can ignore Enid’s opinions even more-so than usual. Frankly it is disturbing she’d rather believe what the other knights have to say for once.

They should arrive to this next town by tomorrow, and then Enid needs to complete the second task in the list she has been given. Wednesday isn’t sure what it is yet, and she cares not to check. At the moment her main focus is about getting to their next stable stop and blocking out whatever ramble Enid is speaking at her. She really does not shut up.

Though, Wednesday must concede something seems different about Enid now and it is piquing her curiosity. Despite her usual unending commentary and passion for wasting time, it seems… Duller, perhaps? Like Enid had a metaphorical spark above her head that fizzled out slightly. Not that Wednesday cares – she is simply intrigued at what has brought the change about. People are puzzles sometimes, and Wednesday does find it quite interesting to poke at them until she figures them out, even to the point of annoying them. Especially to the point of annoying them – it’s more satisfying that way. Enid has been quite easy to figure out so far – excitable, excessively friendly, has an opinion on everything, and is overall the picture of privilege… but now, and after that ritual in particular? Something is different. It is most curious.

Again, Wednesday does not care – If Enid is suddenly less enthused than before, it can only be a positive in her eyes. Wednesday is here to do her job and that is it, so anything that lowers Enid’s friend-making attempts is welcome... but there’s just something following that first task that’s made Enid shift a little, and it’s got Wednesday’s brain ticking tremendously.

Wednesday wants to think a little more on it. Fortunately, Enid seems completely unaware of Wednesday not listening to a single word she says, and considering they are on a rather straight bit of path, there’s no better opportunity to have a bit of a think back…

Okay. So… Following Enid’s return from the ritual, she seemed tired; quiet. It seemed unusual but not unexpected… Wednesday can only imagine such a task is momentous. Mostly, the quiet was welcome. An evening where Wednesday can have peace and quiet seemed unheard of since beginning this journey, and Wednesday wasn’t about to ask questions about the ancient waters or what process Enid had to go through. Despite her curiosity, Wednesday had and still has zero desire to take a personal interest in the princess and her life.

After some time settling, Enid had appeared in the doorway that connected their rooms at the inn. Wednesday had previously stated that unless it was an emergency, they were not to talk until the following day. If her days belonged to protecting and watching the princess, she at least deserved a modicum of peace at night. So when Enid appeared, Wednesday simply stared at her.

Go away, her mind said.

“What is it?” Her lips had said instead, in her usual stoic drone.

Enid remained quiet for a moment. She fidgeted with the hem of her sleep shirt. An irritating habit.

“I understand how it feels now.”

Wednesday remembers her brow raising, perplexed by the princess’ sullen state. She did not respond, still wishing Enid to leave. She did not care (still does not) for whatever dramatics she was being invited into.

Enid mumbled something nearly incoherent afterwards. With her voice quiet and her words uncharacteristically stumbled, Wednesday can only remember the word ‘duty’ and something about having to do things you don’t like amongst the angst-ridden words before Enid disappeared again into her own room.

It was a short interaction, no longer than maybe a minute… The following day Enid said nothing of it, and continued to emit her sunshine personality as though nothing was different.

And now, the day after that, the same can be said. Enid acts as though nothing is different with her, but there is… and with no other stimulation to keep her busy, Wednesday cannot help but needle away at it.

She stares into the back of Enid’s head. Wednesday has never been good at people; never really wanted to be good at them, either, but they do make good puzzles. With this latest change, Enid is certainly a little more intriguing. Not enough for Wednesday to be invested personally… more so like a scientist probing a specimen.

“It’s starting to rain.” Enid announces, her concerned voice pulling Wednesday from her thoughts. They’ve moved a fair distance uphill and closed in on some rain clouds above them, turning the sky grey and dreary. Water droplets bounce onto the leather of Enid’s gloves as she holds her hand out, and seconds later, Wednesday feels water drip onto her head. It’s ice cold and feels like misery as it seeps into her scalp. Perfection. This is exactly what she had been hoping for.

Enid glances back, her face screwed up in discomfort. Wednesday is not surprised that the princess cannot handle a little bit of rain water, but feels inconvenienced by it nonetheless. It’s ironic, considering she adored the Sirens. Alas, this likely means she is going to request to stop… and their progress will be halted once more.

Be quiet. Be quiet. Be qui-

“We should find somewhere and take shelter from the weather.”

Unbelievable.

Wednesday glares daggers back at Enid, annoyed at the prospect of having to slow their progress even further. They cannot stop. It’s just a bit of rain; there is no need to slow down. They can dry themselves when they reach the next stables and warm up with whatever poor excuse for food they are serving. Better yet, there’ll be a warm fire to dry their clothes… If they stop then they have to sit in cold, wet clothing and whilst Wednesday relishes in misery, even she does not enjoy the idea of sitting in a damp tunic. Her knight gear is heavy enough as it is.

Wednesday responds to Enid with a firm “No.”

Enid’s discomfort changes into something Wednesday recognises as… Upset? Anger? It’s a bit pouty and a bit how she imagines a scolded child would look. As noticed before, these negative expressions sit on her face in a way that’s awkward and pathetic, like a kicked puppy. Though, it ignites further annoyance as opposed to the sympathy Wednesday suspects Enid is vying for. Enid should know her well enough by this point.

“But it’s cold.” Enid says.

Wednesday stares at Enid. Oh, how she stares. Of course you’re cold she thinks, still glaring. You will be colder if we stop moving. Someone educated like a princess ought to know better… and yet. Here she is, watching Enid pout like a baby. All because of a little rain. Ridiculous.

“Keep going.”

Wednesday pulls her horse ahead and brings up the pace, hoping taking lead will encourage Enid’s silly display to be silenced… or at the very least, it stops her seeing said display. Wednesday doesn’t see the point in being pouty, even moreso when someone else is doing it. It’s childish and admits weakness. It is much easier to be objective and tackle your goals without allowing emotions to affect your stance. Alas, this is not a lesson people are taught, nor apparently a conclusion they reach themselves – as evidenced by Enid’s sudden and diversion from their path only seconds later.

“Enid.” Wednesday grunts, feeling a lick of pain as her teeth clench in displeasure. She whips on Nero’s reins and – to her behest – chases after Enid. Wednesday had hoped whatever minor change in Enid would qualm any adventurous, rebellious spirit. It would’ve made for a much easier journey... but it would seem those hopes are dead in the water. It’s saddening that Wednesday cannot even take happiness in such a death.

Regardless, she follows Enid as she is paid to do, withholding the urge to yell the princess’ name a second time as she watches Enid and Sol disappear into the mouth of a cave. It is pointless, and Wednesday does not stoop to pointless things.

She slows, staring blankly at the cave.

She will die in that cave like the naive fool she is, Wednesday grumbles to herself. The idea is quite delightful… though, admittedly not as delightful as she’d hope. After all, it is technically her job to care about the princess’ well-being. Whether she actually cares or not is nothing to do with it. Enid stays alive; she gets paid; she gets to stay in her high-up position amongst the knights. Staying in a high rank is important regardless of how she feels about her peers. After all, it’s about holding the cards.

Sigh. Wednesday knows she must follow. Gently, she directs Nero into the cave, noting that Enid has (surprisingly) done the smart thing and left Sol close to the entrance. Otherwise, there is little to note about the cave – there is some greenery, dirt and stone. Light penetrates maybe 20 meters or so before petering off towards the back of the space. The cave is not particularly large, but spacious enough to provide shelter… not that it is needed. Too much time has been wasted as it is.

Wednesday squints into the darkness, noticing a figure shuffling around. Enid.Of course, the princess does not have the means to create torches and she’s much too eager to wait for assistance. So naturally, she has plunged herself into the darkness; practically asking for a wolf or bear to come attack. Now, that would be entertaining…

“There’s nothing in here!” Enid calls back to Wednesday. Her voice is smug; aggravating. “We can make a fire and keep shelter until the rain stops.”

Enid returns with a bundle of sticks in her arms, procured seemingly from nowhere. Wednesday stares at her. She scowls. Enid rolls her eyes. Gods, Wednesday despises this attitude. How could she be so foolish as to believe Enid’s spirit had been even slightly broken?

Whatever Enid had claimed to sullenly understand the night prior seems to do little in hindering her skill at being perfectly annoying.

“I am protecting you from yourself,” Enid hums. “Sometimes you need to slow down and rest.”

Incorrect.

Enid builds the sticks in a clumsy pile, trying to imitate what Wednesday assumes is a typical campfire. Wednesday watches, eyeing the wood as it collapses for the umpteenth time. As Wednesday broods, her mind wanders. Those sticks...there’s something off about them. They’re uniform; shaved of their bark. At a squint, they look crudely sharpened – not with a knife but perhaps with a rock. It dawns on her that they are too perfect for randomly found wood. No – these are not just sticks. They feel intentional almost. Crafted.

They clatter to the ground again; the noise echoes amongst Enid’s frustrated huffs.

“You can hate me all you want – but at least help so we’re not both freezing.”

Wednesday’s eyes do not meet Enid’s desperate gaze. They fall behind the princess, widening slightly as her adjusted vision spots a modicum of movement. There’s a quiet pitter patter; a scuttle of noise. The rain? No. Something different. Too erratic.

We shouldn’t be here.

Enid frowns, turning her head. The scuttling grows closer; becomes footsteps that contain a heft. A figure lurches from the shadowy depths. Wednesday’s hand falls to the sword sheathed at her side.

And as Enid’s shaken breath cuts through every other sound, Wednesday does not even think as she plunges herself and her weapon into the darkness.

#Wenclair #Wednesday x Enid #Enid x Wednesday #fanfic #Fantasy AU #Zelda inspired #Slow burn #enemies to friends to lover #Sorry this took 6 months #Life gets in the way #But I Lived Bitch

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