Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

A freezing gust blew by Juleka. She shuddered as it chilled her through her heavy winter gear. She shook off the chill with a deep sigh. A smile tugged at her lips seeing her puff of breath. It was a novelty she should be used to, but it always got to her. That deep down, it was something she shouldn’t be allowed to experience. The same went for the wonderland around her.
Juleka walked the cleared paths on campus. She glanced around at the pristine emptiness. The students had all returned home for holiday save for the ones like her that waited until the last minute. It made her nervous at the thought of returning home, even if it was for a couple of weeks.
Juleka stopped and stared up at the leafless trees overhead. She didn’t want to return home. She didn’t want to endure the ridicule and indifference she always had from them. To see the harsh, bizarre disappointment in her mother’s eyes and the distance in her twin’s eyes. A knife cut her deep at the thought of Luka, her twin. They had been close once, but one day, that changed. Whenever she tried to reach out, he always pulled away and she never knew why. She wished she did but knew it didn’t matter.
Juleka let out another deep breath. The puff of air made her smile and forget her family, even if for a moment. She continued her walk until a strong gale knocked into her. She gasped at the extreme cold that sunk deep to her bones. She hurried back to her dorm as the wind refused to relent. She made it to her room just as snow dumped from the sky.
Juleka moved to remove her winter gear, but stopped at the immense chill that overcame her. She put it back together, gathered every blanket she could find, and curled up. She stared out the window and watched the snow fall. She loved the cold, but lately it didn’t like her. She couldn’t enjoy the same walks she used to without feeling frostbitten through her gear. She silently cursed the snow and cold as she warmed up.
Juleka dozed on and off while she regained some warmth. She moved out of her blanket pile once the initial chill had left her body. She cleaned up her mess before she stopped and stared at her suitcase. She sighed and considered. She had a few days still before she had to leave. She could wait a little longer, right? There was no harm in waiting until the day of. She didn’t have much to pack anyway. Not like she had anything valuable except her clothes. Even that wasn’t much for the bargain bin, thrift store collection she had.
Juleka’s stomach growled. She groaned and looked between the door and window. She could head out for dinner, but the storm had become a full blizzard with white-out conditions. She groaned and searched her dorm. She found her dormmates stash of hidden snacks for late-night study sessions. She grabbed a few granola bars and watched the blizzard before she turned on the TV.
Juleka mindlessly flipped through the channels. She stopped on a news channel when her phone buzzed. She checked the caller ID and sneered when she saw it was her mother. She declined the call, turned off her phone, and chucked it into the trash. She’d fish it out in the morning. She grabbed the remote to continue when the newscast caught her attention.
Juleka listened to the news. There were whispers of war between several nations that could escalate into a potential World War III. Terror consumed her at the notion. She didn’t like the idea of war, never had. It was a selfish act that destroyed everything. People, places, the environment, everything. As she’s always heard the warmongers say: “all’s fair in love and war.” The notion made her want to vomit. How could all be fair? How could one justify the countless lives lost? The utter destruction of life and the unnecessary, early deaths. How was any of it fair?
Juleka prepared to click off the channel when the feed changed. It showed a pair of handsome men with fair skin, blonde slicked back hair, and matching black suits. She froze in place as utter disgust and fury consumed her. The news continued, but all words fell on deaf ears as she glared at the men. Her mind empty except for the thought of what vile, repulsive creatures those were.
Juleka snapped out of her episode as the news feed changed again. She shut off the TV and chucked the remote into the trash with her phone. She grabbed several blankets and curled up near the window. She put on some instrumental music as she watched the storm. She let out a sigh and fell asleep.

Juleka stood in a vast empty, snowy wonderland. She strolled in the untouched fields of snow as her footprints disappeared behind her. The cold blew around and embraced her, but she didn’t feel it. She smiled and let out a sigh, but there was no puff. Tears stung her eyes as her body became heavy. She fought to stand but crumbled under the weight of herself. She plummeted.
Juleka crashed through the snow and fell through a black void. She slammed into the dark ground. She shook herself off as a warm glow lit up in the distance. She staggered to her feet and stumbled through the dark, but green forest that surrounded her. Her strength returned as she sprinted through the forest to the glow. She stopped dead at the sight before her.
Juleka’s jaw dropped at the utter destruction. Trees burned to charred twigs, buildings obliterated, burnt corpses that wasted away to ash in the wind, and the night sky filled with horrific smoke and ash clouds. She screamed and threw herself into the blaze. She desperately searched for survivors as she witnessed the life essence evaporate all around her. She choked, not on the smoke, but her own despair and fear.
Footsteps crunched the charred debris behind Juleka. She turned to face a shadowy man. Rage and repulsion tore through her as she attacked the man. She hissed every insult and slight until the man grabbed her throat. She clawed at his hand as her hands turned black and crumbled to ash. She screamed as she was consumed and reduced to ash.

Chapter Text

Juleka woke with a start. She blinked, but all she saw was darkness. She shifted as her body ached and felt lethargic. She reached a hand out of the covers and shuddered. She pulled it back under the blanket to avoid the freezing cold. She warmed up her hand before she braved a peek.
Juleka looked around the dark room. She glanced out the window to see the storm was still going strong. She groaned and ducked back under the blankets. She looked towards the bathroom, considering a bath. She was alone and didn’t have to worry about bothering her dormmates. Plus, she figured the hot water would help warm her up.
Juleka moved to stand but fell onto the floor. She cursed as she couldn’t feel her legs. She wrapped herself in the blanket and dragged herself to the bathroom. She felt for the light switch and turned on the lights. She pulled the blanket off and froze.
Juleka glared down the black snout in front of her. She cautiously raised a hand as horror consumed her seeing it was black and covered with snake scales. She looked behind her and saw her legs had fused into a long, massive black snake tail with turquoise diamond markings. She pulled herself up and gasped at her reflection. Her clothes dangled from her in shreds that exposed the black scales and turquoise underbelly. Her hair was gone and molded into a cobra hood that framed her snake head.
Juleka shook her head as she lowered herself to the floor. Bile churned as it rose and fell in her throat. This wasn’t real. This was still a dream. It had to be. There was no possible way she was really a snake person.
Juleka frantically searched the bathroom for anything to shock her awake. She looked to the bathtub and turned on the boiling, scolding water. She braced herself for the scorching pain, but it felt warm and pleasant. She sighed and relaxed when she watched her hand under the water revert to normal. She pulled her hand away and put the other under the water. She gasped as it returned to normal too.
Juleka considered and turned the water to ice cold. She hesitantly touched the water before she plunged her hand into the waterfall. Shock shook her entire body as the hand covered in black scales again. She wretched the hand out of the water and cradled it close. She took several deep breaths to ground herself.
“Pull yourself together, Juleka. This is… this is just a bad dream. You are just… stressed. Yeah, stressed. This is nothing more than a stress dream. You just… you need something sharp. Pain will wake you up. Real pain. Not fake pain.”
Juleka stumbled and rolled out of the bathroom. She cursed her tail before she dragged herself around the dorm. She tore apart the room before she found a pair of scissors. She fumbled with them but managed to cut her palm. She winced at the pain, but she didn’t wake up. She stared in disbelief at the cool blood that pooled in her hand. She reached out her other hand when a light flashed from it. She turned away, but when she looked back, her cut was healed.
Juleka sat a moment longer in the destroyed room. This was real, wasn’t it? This wasn’t some crazy, stress nightmare. This was all real. Whatever it was, it was real.
The cold snuck up on Juleka and she shuddered. She reached for several blankets and wrapped herself up. Whatever this was, she needed to warm up. That should get rid of whatever this was. She dragged herself to her tiny collection of clothes and uncovered the set of fuzzy pajama pants, socks, and sweater she had. She returned to the bathroom where she poured herself into the bathtub, pulled the shower curtain, and set the water to scolding.
Juleka’s body coiled up as she sat under the shower. She dozed off a few times from the warmth and steam. When she woke again, her body returned to normal. Relief flooded over her as she moved to turn off the shower but paused. She grabbed a towel and began drying herself off with the shower still running. She gingerly stepped out to finish drying off. A chill ran through her, but she still felt warm. She hurried and got dressed, wrapped herself up in the blankets, then stepped out.
Juleka shivered slightly as warmth fled her. She ran around the dorm, collected all the blankets she could find, and made herself a blanket fort. She grabbed her phone before she crawled inside. She sighed as she felt warm again. She turned her phone back on to check her messages.
Anarka had called just that once and didn’t leave a voicemail, but that was the norm at this point. Anarka did leave Juleka a text. Juleka hesitated, then read it. She perked up reading that Anarka and Luka would be out of the house starting tomorrow after three and be gone for about a week.
Juleka’s mind raced as she formed a plan. If she left early enough tomorrow, she could make it home just before Anarka and Luka would leave. She didn’t want to chance arriving after in case Anarka decided to lock her out. Not that Anarka had done that yet, but she didn’t put it past Anarka to shut her out like that. She wouldn’t need to worry about packing as she figured it’d be better if she wore all her clothes just for a sliver of warmth in the cold.
Juleka figured if she got home without transforming into a snake person, she could barricade herself in her old room. She could figure out what was going on then and get a better plan to hide whatever this was. And with a week without them gave her room for error while she gathered personal information.
Juleka nodded once satisfied with her plan. She set an early alarm to give her plenty of time to prepare for the journey home. She curled up and fell asleep.

Chapter Text

Luka grumbled as he fought with his necktie. A knock on his door interrupted his battle. He turned as Anarka stepped into his room.
“You almost ready?” Anarka asked.
“Yeah, just fighting with this.”
Anarka chuckled. “Need help, lad?”
“No. I got this. I’ve done it before.”
“Alright, but I’m only giving you-.”
A man pushed past Anarka and struck a pose in the room. “Surprise!”
Luka and Anarka turned to the man and stared. He wore a sleeveless under bust corset tailcoat that trailed behind him in long peacock feathers, a blue shirt with sleeves that flared and dangled at his elbows with a few buttons undone to expose his chest, black pants, and white knee-high boots. His messy, beach blonde hair was slicked back in an elegant mess that framed his face perfectly. Gold bracelets and cuffs adorned both his arms with a single gold earring in his right ear.
“Adrien? What are you-?” Luka started.
Adrien tackled Luka, kissing Luka. Anarka cleared her throat, earning Adrien’s attention.
“Adrien, what are you doing here?”
“Huh? Oh! Well, it’s rather simple. I wanted to see my darling little snake charmer. It has been so long after all.”
“We were on our way to the Court soon. You could have waited.”
Adrien cooed like a bird as he nuzzled Luka. “Oh, I know, but I couldn’t wait any longer. I just had to see him. He is my favorite after all.”
Anarka scoffed. “You may be the Peacock, but you need to leave Luka be. You’ll need to focus on finding a suitable mate, not just some passing fancies. It’s your responsibility to-.”
Anarka stopped abruptly and left the room. Adrien let out a long sigh and cuddled up to Luka.
“Are you ok?” Luka asked.
“I’m fine. Just tired of hearing that same bullshit. I know what I should be doing, but that doesn’t mean I want to do it. Not that they’d accept I want you even if they did take me seriously.”
Luka opened his mouth to speak, but Adrien continued.
“I mean, now they’re pushing me to be with that stupid Butterfly girl. She’s so annoying. All she does is preach utter nonsense about how I’m such an utter disgrace and need to act like I should. The utter nerve of that little brat. I am a glorious peacock and a Highborn at that. Where does she get off shaming me like that? Honestly, where? Oh, and don’t get me started on-!”
Luka kissed Adrien to silence him. He kept their faces within an inch of each other’s. “We can talk about this later after all the pompous and ceremony when it’s just us and the only eyes are your fabulous feathers.”
Adrien cooed softly. He kissed Luka on the lips and trailed to Luka’s ear. “You need to get better at tying ties, my sweet toxin.”
Luka looked down at his perfectly tied necktie. “Hey, mine might not be perfect, but it gets the job done.”
Adrien snorted. “That mangled mess is far from getting the job done. Besides, what message are you sending looking like?”
Luka smirked. “You know, not everyone cares about appearances, right?”
Adrien gasped in feigned horror and dramatically fainted into Luka’s arms.
“No, say it isn’t so. You couldn’t have possibly uttered such blasphemy. Not you, my heart, of all people.”
Luka rolled his eyes as he scooped up Adrien. “Alright, your Majesty. Save the theatrics for later. We have to get going.”
Adrien shrugged and snuggled up to Luka. He cooed while Luka carried him out towards the door. Luka stopped dead and back stepped.
Adrien looked up. “What’s going on?”
“Stay low. Don’t let her see you.”
Adrien cooed. His head turned to the front where he heard a pair of women yelling. He rolled out of Luka’s arms and approached the railing. His eyes widened seeing Anarka fighting with a young lady covered in layers upon layers of clothes.
“Who’s she?” Adrien asked.
“Uh, that would be Juleka. My twin.”
“Wait. You have a sister, and you didn’t tell me?”
“Well, I wasn’t allowed to. She kinda had her memory of the Court and everything erased at a young age. So, you know.”
Adrien grimaced. He turned back to the fight and listened to them.
“Juleka, please. I just need you out for a few minutes, then you can come right back. How hard is that to understand?” Anarka demanded.
Juleka sneered. “And how hard is it for you to just let me go to my damned room? Why are you trying to toss me back out in the freezing cold? Is this it? Is this the day you finally fucking realize you don’t want me? Is this the day you realize you should have tossed me out sooner?”
“Juleka, that’s not what I’m saying. You know we care-.”
“Don’t fucking finish that damn sentence. You don’t care. You never did.”
“I didn’t? Then why did I send all those years clothing and feeding you? How can you say I don’t care?”
“Because you didn’t have the mother fucking balls to put me up for adoption like you should have. Maybe then I’d have a mother that actually loved me and a brother that didn’t treat me like trash to be tossed aside.”
Adrien glanced back as Luka flinched as if Juleka’s words physically struck him.
Anarka scowled. “How dare you? How ungrateful must you be? We gave you everything.”
Juleka laughed harshly. “You fucking tossed me aside the moment I was inconvenient. You showered the fucking golden child with everything. And what was I? Nothing. Absolutely fucking nothing. And right now, that nothing just wants to hide away and not see your ugly ass mugs.”
“You have no right to-.”
“Shut the fuck up and get out of my way, banshee.”
Juleka attempted to push past Anarka, but Anarka held her back. She struggled against Anarka’s grip with the door flung open. Everyone braced against the cold while she let out a horrid animalist shriek. Everyone gawked at her except the newcomer, Jagged Stone, their father.
“What’s up, party people!” Jagged Stone cheered.
“Shut the damn door you damned fool!” Juleka roared.
“Excuse you, but who do you think that you are to command me? I’m the legendary-.”
“You’re the legendary slacker that was out of fashion and relevance back in the seventies. The only defining feature about you is the hippie, fuckboy whoring around and excessive drugs you overindulge in to maintain any semblance of importance,” Juleka hissed.
“Well. You are… very mean,” Jagged Stone remarked.
“And I’m about to get a whole lot meaner if you don’t shut that damn door.”
Jagged Stone crossed his arms and stood indignantly. “No. Do it yourself.”
Juleka opened her mouth to yell, but only managed a loud, menacing snake hiss. Everyone watched as Juleka transformed into a large black cobra naga with a turquoise underbelly and diamond markings down the length of her back and tail. Juleka hissed again and advanced towards Jagged Stone but collapsed onto the pile of her torn clothes.
Jagged Stone fainted at the sight while Anarka ran to shut the door. She ran back to Juleka. She flinched at Juleka’s ice cold scales. Adrien jumped down to the main floor with Luka and joined Anarka.
“Anarka, did you know?” Adrien asked.
“I… how could I? I never thought… I mean with her powers never developing at the proper age, I just assumed… Oh, Juleka.”
“Mom, now’s not the time. We need to get her to the Court,” Luka interjected.
“Right. Right, the Court. They’ll need to see this. They’ll have to help her.”
Luka placed a reassuring hand on Anarka’s shoulder. She gave him a smile while Adrien lifted Juleka onto his shoulders.
“Let’s go. The Court of Miracles awaits.”

Chapter Text

Dark haze fogged around the edges of Juleka’s vision. She heard the words of Anarka encouraging her to step back out into the cold. Bitter anger, cutting betrayal, and hopelessness tore through her when Anarka attempted to push her out. The haze thickened into a blood red fog that obstructed her vision. She heard words but couldn’t understand them. She just lashed out whatever felt right, and it felt so right.
Juleka enjoyed the venom that coursed through it. It was vile and bitter, but deliciously sweet. She fully indulged in it when the biting freeze consumed her. She fought to keep herself under control, but the strain had been too much. She felt her body change accompanied along with the tearing of clothes. She had collapsed and her vision faded to black.
Juleka’s eyes fluttered open. She blinked against the warm orange lights that surrounded her. She shifted on an uncomfortably soft mattress and set of pillows. She sat up and looked around. The room she was in was massive, about the size of the university lecture halls. The walls were dark oak and turquoise velvet halfway down to the floor, which was black marble. The room was decorated with lavish golden and deep mahogany furniture, beautiful art pieces of snakes, and lots of heat lamps. The bed itself was a king-sized monster with dozens of pillows, heavy fuzzy comforters, and squishy memory foam.
Juleka grunted as she struggled to maneuver off the bed to the floor. She froze seeing the turquoise pajamas she wore. She snarled and fought with them but was unable to remove them. She grumbled as she grabbed onto them and tore them to shreds. A sudden chill ran up her, but it was chased away by the heat lamps. She moved away from the lamps as she explored the rest of the room.
Juleka poked around and found a closet. She opened the door and stopped at the entrance at the insane size of her runway isle closet. The walls and cubbies were filled with black and turquoise garments, black shoes, and countless accessories. At the end was a small pedestal with mirrors on all sides surrounding it. She turned her lip up at the formal, rigid outfits, tasteless shoes, and sophisticated jewelry. She moved to leave when movement caught her eye. She turned as a dress moved from its hanger towards her.
Juleka took a step back as the garment hovered before her. It was a long-sleeved black dress with a split up the middle. The skirt trailed off in the back like tail. The dress sported a corset with bones lined along it like a ribcage. She looked at the back of the dress to see the bone pattern continue with the spine, pelvis, and snake tail. She reached out to touch it when it moved and magically adorned her body. She looked herself over in confusion and awe at the dress.
Juleka ran up to the pedestal and looked at herself. The dress fit her flawlessly, showing off the right curves and everything. She moved around a bit and didn’t feel the clothes, almost like it was part of her skin. She messed with the skirt a bit. She liked the split, but preferred if it was wider and more like a tail skirt with pants. More movement from the corner of her eyes as a pair of tight pants covered her legs and her skirt was altered to her desires. Her eyes widened, then she smirked.
“Could I get a nice pair of stiletto boots? Something dark and could hurt?”
Juleka watched as a pair of knee-high boots with tall stiletto heels adorned her feet. More ideas of small improvements to her outfit crossed her mind as she fussed with her hair. She watched as the minor adjustments were made. Rips on her pants, chains dangled on her boots and pants, her dress neckline adjusted to a halter with the long sleeves turned into short fingerless gloves with chains and buckles on them.
Juleka grinned as spiked, grungy jewelry adored her arms, hands, and neck. She looked closer in the mirror as black make-up was applied to her lips and eyes. She paused and looked closer at her irises to see they weren’t a red amber anymore, but a bright turquoise. She frowned and remembered Luka’s appearance. She moved her hair closer to the mirror to see her purple dye was fading to reveal a turquoise like Luka’s underneath.
“Shit. Shit, shit, shit! Uh, um, contacts? Hair dye?”
“You won’t find either of those here,” a man said.
Juleka turned around to see a tall, wiry man dressed in funeral clothes with long black and turquoise hair tied back and bright turquoise eyes.
“Who are you?”
“I am Sass. A kwami.”
“What the hell is a kwami?”
“Well, what kind of answer would you like?”
Juleka considered. “A full explanation.”
“Very well. We are godlike creatures that embody abstract concepts. Myself and the rest of my kind are the result of a singular kwami that split himself apart to create us.”
“Ok. Then what am I doing in this place of what I assume is for gods?”
“It may have had something to do with your body shutting down and entering a hibernation state due to extreme cold. But these things happen to shifters like yourself.”
Juleka’s eyes widened. She leapt from the pedestal and strode towards Sass. “Do you know what’s going on with me? Do you know why I can suddenly transform into a snake woman monster thing?”
“Indeed. Your family, like many others, have been blessed by kwamis. See, long ago, the lone kwami wanted to mingle and co-exist with mortals, but couldn’t devise a way to do so without utter chaos. So, we improved on his attempts and instead blessed you mortals with powers. Of course, this was long ago with your ancient ancestors and the descendants today aren’t what they were back then.”
“What does that mean?”
“See, the power in the blood has been weakening. Over time through natural selection, poor mating partners, and a lack of connection with the base concepts. It has resulted in what the Court refers to as Lowborn and Midborn.”
Juleka furrowed her brow. “Court? Lowborn? Midborn? What the hell are you talking about?”
“Perhaps it’d be easier if I show you. Care to take a walk?”
“What are you going to show me?”
“The most pompous and ridiculous shit that I’m forced to endure. And, by unfortunate extension, so are you.”
Juleka raised a brow, then smiled. “Well, misery loves company.”
Sass laughed. “That it does. And perhaps we can have a little fun. It has been some time since I’ve been in the presence of a Snake such as yourself.”
“Is that a good thing?”
“It means we have a fun, rare opportunity to scare the little shits and remind them not to fuck around with life.”
“What’d you have in mind?”
“Step back onto the pedestal there. We’re going to make some final alterations to your macabre outfit.”
Juleka grinned and hopped back onto the pedestal. She watched in the mirror as Sass uttered instructions. The choker was replaced with three bone chokers laid into the neckline. Her fingers covered up as a pair of bone panja bracelets appeared and ended in needle thin claws. Buckles lined her boots with platinum inlay at the base of them to the heels, and bones set in her boots. The bones in her dress and boots were bleached white before he changed his mind and had them changed to look unclean and decaying along with holes and torn pieces in her tail skirt. Touches of platinum were added to her eyeshadow and lipstick with a set of snake fang earrings and snake bite lip piercings added for a final touch.
“There we go. You’re ready.”
Juleka held her head high as she bounced over to the entrance to the closet. Sass followed and led her to the door. He shot her a reassuring glance before he opened the doors and they stepped out.
Juleka paused and marveled at the high arched ceilings with the bannisters a dull brass with matching pillars in the walls. She glanced around at the long hallway that had large double doors sparsely lined in them.
“What is this place?” Juleka asked.
“This is the personal quarters. It’s where heirs are given their own personal accommodations. This is for those within the ranks of, oh what was it? I think three to five. The top pair get a special wing all to themselves.”
“So, not everyone gets the same accommodations? Is that what I’m hearing.”
“Essentially. You fall into the higher end of them, but still under those of Reality, Imagination, Creation, and Destruction.”
Juleka grunted. Sass ushered her down the long corridor. She looked around at the different doors they passed by. One was a lavish gold with jewels inlaid on the green and blue door. Another was a simple door with gold moths around the door frame.
“Peacock and Moth?”
“Peacock and Butterfly. They are of Beauty and Transformation. And watch out for the Peacock. Flamboyant creature that’s been looking to procure a high tier harem. I’m also sure he’s fucked every heir in Court at least once.”
Juleka curled her lip. “And whatever your Court is allows this?”
“Sadly. However, it’s also in his nature. He is Highborn, so he shares a close connection with his concept and the animal. And peacocks are known for having multiple peahens as mates. To the Court, he is acting within his nature and dismiss him.”
“That’s awful. What if he, you know? What if that happens?”
Sass snickered. “There are certain precautions I have taken whenever I see a Highborn Peacock. I may not be able to prevent his nature, but I can stop the consequences.”
“Huh. Well, that’s something, I suppose.”
“Just no saying anything. No one knows I do these things.”
“Your secret is safe with me.”
Sass smiled as he continued down the hall. Juleka observed the opulence from the golden etchings in the metal walls to the wispy golden faerie fire lights that hovered overhead. This continued into the next area, that was a massive corridor that made her feel like she was in an airport. The brass of the previous corridor were traded out for fine marble in the walls and floors.
“Where the fuck are we to allow for this level of grandeur?” Juleka asked.
“No where and everywhere,” Sass commented.
“What’s that mean?”
“It’s a pocket space created long ago but modified through the ages to suit the comforts of the new heirs and heiresses.”
Juleka hummed as they continued their walk. Sass pointed out the other halls that lead to the other heirs’ chambers and sitting rooms until they came to a massive archway. Curiosity got the better of her as she trotted ahead of him into the new area.
Juleka gasped as she looked down from the balcony. The room below was enormous and reminded her of pictures of Grand Central Station with its design aside from two variations. There were several fleets of stairs that lead to massive oaken doors large enough to allow a dragon through. One of these flights of stairs lead up to an exquisite golden gilded door with pillars of faerie fire leading to it. The second was a large fountain sitting area in the middle of the room. She couldn’t make out the design of it but could see the water from it shifted between every shade of the rainbow.
“Marvelous, isn’t it?”
“It’s huge. Is this the Court you mentioned?”
“Just about. The stairs there leads to the courtroom.”
“Well, ok, but this entire place, realm, dimension, whatever, is this the Court?”
“Yes. Essentially, this is the main hub. You’ll see the most people in this area. The other large doors lead out into the rest of the realm. However, that access is only for Court members. Anyone who is not part or immediately related don’t gain access to the deeper sanctums. Even this area we’re in isn’t for the common rabble.”
“Then why am I here?”
“Well, being able to transform into a naga is one reason. Another is because your family are direct members of the Court.”
“What? Since when?”
“Since your twin was named the Snake heir. However, that may change today.”
“What? Fuck that! I don’t care what your ‘Court’ wants. I-.”
“It’s not for the Court to decide,” Sass interrupted.
“Oh. Then whose is it?”
“Someone you will meet very soon. Come. They’re waiting for us. And, like yourself, I want to get this over with.”
“Ok. Lead the way.”

Chapter Text

Juleka and Sass walked down a long hallway. She looked around at the walls of the portraits lined along the hall. The people depicted in them were a mix of young and old with one of them being Luka.
“What are these?” Juleka asked.
“All the current heirs. They figured having these leading into the courtroom would be beneficial, or something like that,” Sass answered.
“They all don’t look like much.”
“I’d agree but watch out for the black cat heir. Though, perhaps you should watch out for the ladybug one more.”
“Why’s that?”
“While there are others above the Paradise set, none are quite like that pair. Try not to get on their bad side.”
Juleka snorted. “They’ll be lucky if that’s all I do.”
Sass hummed. They walked in silence before they stopped before another large set of doors.
“Ready?” Sass asked.
“Let’s get this over with.”
Juleka stepped into a large room with an assembly of people. She glanced over the small crowd that had gathered when her eyes fell on a table further up. It was tiered that rose up with a selection of individuals. Amongst them she eyed Luka and the blonde man from the news a few days ago. Her eyes darted between the two when she felt Sass’s hand on her shoulder.
“Pay them no mind. They’re more set dressing for this meeting,” Sass whispered.
“Oh. No problem then,” Juleka remarked.
Juleka trotted forward and stood before the assembly of individuals. She looked over them once more before her attention was brought to a lanky man with black hair and bright green eyes.
“You’re Juleka Couffaine, correct?”
Juleka raised her brow and placed a hand on her hip. “Who wants to know?”
The man shrank back but cleared his thought. “May I present myself. I am Marc Anciel, head of the Court of Miracles. Uh, we heard of the recent discovery of your powers as a shifter and have brought you to be presented before us.”
“Right. Can we get to the part where I need to care?”
Marc let out a squeak in an attempt to speak.
Juleka tsked when light caught her eye. She turned away from the assembly to a pair of lights that circled around her. She watched as a red and purple orb stopped in front of her and morphed into a pair of small creatures with tiny bodies and large heads. The red one had three black spots on its head with purple eyes and the purple one looked like a butterfly.
“My, what a spitfire. It’s about time we got more like you in this drab court,” the red bug said.
“Agreed. It’s quite the refreshing change of pace,” the butterfly said.
“Well, aren’t you interesting creatures. What’re your names?”
“Oh, you’ll find out in time, young one. For now, there’s someone else you’ll need to meet,” the butterfly said.
“Then where are they?”
The creatures smiled. They reverted to orbs of light as more joined them. They converged above the council into a larger version of the creature with a pure white body, three sets of platinum horns, and a flowing, magnificent prismatic mane and tail. It opened all three sets of eyes and a seventh on its forehead. It peered down at her with its seven black eyes with thin white irises that faded to black.
Juleka’s eyes widened and trotted forward. The creature opened its mouth to speak, but she cut it off.
“You! Eldritch creature, come here.”
The creature tilted its head as its mane and tail shifted between shades of gray to white. It flew down and hovered in front of Juleka. She grinned as she reached out and cupped its face. Its face scrunched in bewilderment as its mane and tail erupted in a color show of purples, blues, reds, and black. She caught glances between its flowy mane at the council behind him. She smirked at their shocked and scared expressions as they all exchanged worried glances.
“Oh, oh my gosh. You change colors depending on your mood don’t you?”
“I-.:
Juleka pulled the creature in for a bear hug. She pressed her face against its and nuzzled it. She cooed over how adorable it was while she ignored the terrified buzzing of the room around her. It looked at her with wide eyes before it relaxed and nuzzled her back. She smiled and held it up.
“What’s your name?” Juleka asked.
“Velze. Pleasure to meet you, Juleka.”
Juleka’s eyes lit up as she nuzzled Velze again. “Oh, you’re so cute, Velze. Yes, you are. Yes, you are.”
Velze smiled. Its mane and tail shifted between every light shade of orange and yellow. Juleka grinned as she took it and held it in her arms like a large stuffed animal. It purred as it relaxed, its mane and tail shifting between different shades of light blues.
“Say, Velze, you wanna ditch these guys?” Juleka asked.
Gasps rippled through the area as it erupted in loud chatter.
“B-b-b-but, you can’t! Velze-!” Marc started.
“I’d love that. Let’s depart. I know the perfect place.”
“Hell yeah. Just point me in the right direction.”
The Court cried out as Juleka turned and ran out of the courtroom. She took a moment at the door, flipped them off, and ran off. She snickered and ran in the direction that Velze directed. She headed towards one of the large doors and slipped through. She gawked as she stepped out onto the balcony.
Juleka breathed in the clean, refreshing air that carried along intoxicating foreign scents. Above her was a spectacular sky of pastel pink, purple, blue, and yellow. Far down below was a sprawling large village divided into several sections like a city. Beyond that was a massive forest with multicolored leaves and a misty aura surrounding it. Deep in the forest was a massive glass structure that poked out through the leafy canopy.
“We go to the building in the forest. Step on the teleportation pad,” Velze instructed.
Juleka looked to her left as a glowing pad appeared. She leapt onto it and was teleported into the greenhouse. She gasped at the colorful flora and fauna that filled the space. Her mind raced as she looked at the various alien plants as she recollected knowledge of them that she never had before.
“This is incredible!” Juleka exclaimed.
“Isn’t it? It’s where we keep the Paradise herbs. These are the ones that are imbued with true magic.”
“True magic? So, could I say, brew them into potions and other remedies? Or even poisons?”
“Absolutely. Typically, it falls on the Snake to oversee the greenhouse and manage the supplies of medicines. Your twin has done an applicable job but was lacking in his care of the plants. Our Dragon had to take over as he was busy being the therapist.”
Juleka scoffed, then paused. “Wait, then what of me? After I turned into a snake creature, does this mean I’m part of your Court?”
“No, not yet. I like you more than Luka, even the rest of the Court, but that is because you are different. However, that difference is dangerous when your heart is still wounded, and the wounds run very deep.”
Juleka bristled. “It’s not my fault! I-.”
“I know. You are paying for other people’s mistakes. You have been beaten down again and again. Hurt by those that were supposed to love and guide you. Hurt by those that have failed you. It’s these wounds that must heal.”
“Yeah, well, easier said than done.”
Velze chuckled. “It always is. However, now things will change. Your life will never be the same again and you have opportunities you hadn’t before. What you do with them is all up to you now. I both fear and look forward to what you do to this Court. You’re someone both my children and the elders have been looking for a long time.”
“What do you mean?”
Velze didn’t respond but smiled. Its body enveloped into light before it broke apart into countless orbs. Juleka watched them all fly away save for one. She watched the turquoise orb shift into Sass.
“So, what now?” Juleka asked.
“Now, we can hide away from the Court, at least until they decide to come for you. You’ll have sparked some interest amongst the heirs, so expect some visitors before long.”
Juleka groaned. “Wonderful.”
Sass chuckled. “Oh, don’t worry, I feel that sentiment. However, let’s take this time to familiarize yourself with the greenhouse. This will be yours now, thank goodness. Luka may not have had a black thumb, but it certainly wasn’t a green thumb.”
Juleka snickered. “Do my ears deceive me? The golden child isn’t perfect at everything? Say it ain’t so.”
“Oh, it’s so. Had to chase him out a few times before he eventually just stopped coming. Thankfully, the Dragon was able to pick up on the slack, until you. So, let’s see how well you fare, yes?”
“Yeah! Let’s do this.”

Chapter Text

Luka watched the court and assembly spiral into a panic. Those in assembly were in an uproar after Juleka ran out with Velze in her arms. They demanded answers and for the heirs to chase after Juleka. They panicked over Velze’s reaction along with the other heirs. Most of the heirs gathered around Marc as they peppered him with questions, not allowing him a moment to speak or breathe. He noticed that a few had slipped away in the madness.
Luka took the chance and slipped away. He eyed Nathalie as she slipped around the frenzied assembly. He trotted after and followed her path out of the courtroom through a portal. A cool wind wrapped around him as he stepped into the records room. Nathalie stood on the other side, waiting for him.
“Can I help you with something?” Nathalie asked.
“Uh, no. I was just looking for a way out and saw you. You know your way around the realm well enough, so yeah. That’s all.”
“Smart boy. However, get out before your souteneur shows up. Last thing I want messing up records is the souteneur and his favorite little pet whore.”
Luka flinched at Nathalie’s words and forced a smile. He retreated from the records room into the corridor. He leaned against the door and took a deep breath. He hurried through the hallways back to his chambers as shame and frustration tore through him. He slipped into his room as tears cascaded from his eyes. He took a shaky breath and sunk to the floor as the wounds bled freely.
Luka pulled his knees close to him and cried. He was a failure, just another weak heir. He didn’t have the courage to be there for Juleka, but rather help push her away because the family and court demanded it. He endured the harsh words of the court and Nathalie over his relationship with Adrien. No matter what they did or said, he was just the current favorite to keep the Peacock entertained. That, in time, he would be tossed aside and forgotten about as Adrien would move on to the next shiny thing. That it’s just in Adrien’s nature.
Bile rose in Luka’s throat as his thoughts spiraled. What if they start assuming things between Juleka and Adrien? What if she assumed he had a part in that decision? How would Juleka react to that? What would she do? What could he do? What if Adrien did leave him for Juleka? Why would Adrien want some pathetic Lowborn when he could have a proper Highborn mate like himself?
The door bumped against Luka. He glanced up as Adrien poked in his head. Adrien’s eyes widened seeing Luka’s tears. Adrien crouched down and wiped away Luka’s tears.
“My snake, what’s wrong? Why the tears?” Adrien asked.
“It’s nothing. Just… had a run in with Nathalie.”
Adrien stiffened. “What did she say? Do I need to talk with her?”
Luka snorted. “Remember the last time you tried to talk to her about this? I was the one comforting you as you indulged in gallons of ice cream.”
Adrien looked indignant as he shook his shoulders, causing ethereal peacock feathers to appear momentarily. “I don’t recall that at all.”
“Then I’m sure she’d be happy to remind you. Just like… just like I’m….”
Luka took a sharp breath as more tears fell from his eyes.
“Luka?” Adrien asked.
Luka forced himself to his feet. “I… I’m fine. I just… I need to make things right.”
“Hold up. What do you mean? What needs to be made right?”
“I have an opportunity to be what I never was. I can finally mend my mistakes with Juleka. I just have to make things right.”
“Wait, I’m confused. Did Nathalie bring up Juleka or did she…?”
“I just need the perfect thing to show my support. After all, she’s a Highborn, so Velze is likely to choose her. I mean, he’d be a fool not to over me. I mean, she’s absolutely amazing. Any… anyone would be a fool not to choose her over me, y’know?”
Adrien frowned. “What? What are you talking-?”
“Oh! I have the perfect idea. I’m sure she’d love it. At least, I hope. I don’t really know too much about her, but that changes today. I’ll see you later, Adrien. I need to run some errands.”
“Hold on! Wait!” Adrien yelled.
Luka took off out of the room and down the hall. Adrien stopped at the entrance and sighed. He leaned against the doorframe as he watched Luka run away again.
“Lover’s quarrel?” Lila cooed.
Adrien bristled and heel turned to face Lila. “What are you doing here?”
Lila clicked her tongue. “Why wouldn’t I? The twin of our lovely, lowly snake is finally with powers. But not just any powers. She’s a shifter! The first in centuries.”
“Then why aren’t you in the greenhouse where the snakes tend to stay?”
“I was, until I saw the mask fall from the dear therapy snake. And like siren calls, his tears called his pimp.”
Adrien snarled and his nostrils flared. Ethereal peacock feathers formed behind him and fanned out. “Fuck off, bitch! I’ve told you all I’m not his pimp and he’s not my prostitute. He’s my boyfriend and I’m his. We’re mates, end of story.”
Lila laughed. “Oh, that lie gets better every time I hear it.”
“It’s not a lie! It’s the truth! I love him!”
Lila guffawed. “Oh, too good. Too good. Look, you can lie to yourself and deny your nature, but you can’t forever. You’re only with Luka still because he keeps you entertained. You don’t really love him but love what he provides for you. Honestly, it should be no secret what latest gossip is spreading with the newest arrival.”
Fear and horror clawed through Adrien. “I don’t care what you naysayers have to say. I know the truth.”
“What you know is a fabricated fantasy. One where you think you would love only Luka, but we all know the truth. You are a Peacock, and a Highborn. It’s in your nature, as the bird itself, to seek multiple partners through your life, never settling with just one. And you can bet you’ll seek a better partner than that worthless snake.”
Adrien growled and summoned his weapon, a fan. It turned to sharp metal blades as he held it up at Lila’s throat. “I won’t listen to your venomous lies. Luka is the man I love. I don’t care what you all think is my nature, but don’t forget that I am still human. And that part of my nature wants Luka. Make no mistake of that.”
Lila smirked that sent chills down Adrien’s spine. “You’re very funny, Peacock. Don’t you realize you were never human. The moment you were brought into this world through darkness and blood, you were born a monster. Like the other Highborns, there’s nothing human about you. The sooner you accept that, the sooner you can break Luka’s heart and move onto your next carnal desire.”
Adrien’s vision turned red. He roared and slashed at Lila, destroying the illusion. He stood where it once stood. He took several deep breaths as the anger lingered but didn’t consume him. He took another breath and composed himself. He turned to head to the greenhouse, determined to show Lila wrong. To show them all they were wrong.

Chapter Text

Juleka followed Sass as they toured the greenhouse. She marveled at the different wings and the countless herbs contained within. She wondered how she was meant to maintain such a building on her own, if she was going to in the first place. The anxiety built up and downed away her excitement, allowing for other thoughts to come in.
Juleka wondered now that she was some Naga shifter descended from some eldritch god, was she stuck in this realm? It was beautiful and everything the real world wasn’t, but it felt weird to her. She liked the idea and certain aspects, but not that this was kept from her. She didn’t like learning about it now. She didn’t like having her entire world turned inside out and upside down. To realize everything about her life had been a lie.
“Any questions before we move on?” Sass asked Juleka.
Juleka snapped out of her thoughts as she looked around. She took several deep breaths as anger gnawed at her.
“Uh, will I have to take over maintenance of this?”
“I suppose not. Luka is still technically in charge of it, but it is still your sanctuary as a snake, heir or no. The care of it will remain with the dragon heir until a proper decision is made by Velze.”
“When will that be?”
“I’m not sure. It could be days, weeks, months, or perhaps mere moments from now.”
“You don’t really think he’d make me the snake heir, do you? I just discovered all this and it’s… I don’t know.”
“What don’t you know?”
“Everything! This whole magic bloodline bullshit, the fact that I never knew, all the shit I do know now, and how could we forget the whole crazy naga transformation, making me some Highborn in this crazy world. I just… I don’t know. It’s just… too much.”
Juleka huffed and plopped down on the ground. Sass moved and sat beside her.
“Tell me how you’re feeling, Juleka, please.”
“I just… I’m overwhelmed. My entire life was spent in a little houseboat on the Seine, living an average life. Well, aside from being treated like I had the plague.”
“How so?”
“Well, Anarka was very distant and never showed any outward affection towards me like she did Luka. And Luka was the damn golden child. He could do no wrong as she showered him with all the praise in the world. I tried to reach out to him when we were kids, but he grew cold and distant to me too. Made all the better as he was sent to special, privileged schools while I got the bare bottom of the barrel. Why did they do that to me? Why did they treat me like that if I was supposed to be like them? Some magic heir.”
“Because your powers didn’t show at the proper age. Typically, in your species, we see powers develop young. For them to develop later in life like with you is the rare exception. Very rare. Because of that, they had to push you away.”
Juleka hissed and shot to her feet. “Are you fucking serious? Just because my powers didn’t show, they had to treat me like that? They had to make me feel fucking worthless? That I was a mistake that they should have gotten rid of long ago? All because I didn’t have these stupid powers until now? How is that fair?”
“Never said it was, but each family reacts differently. Usually with an outsider in the snakes, they push them to be an outcast. It is regrettable, but this sort of situation doesn’t happen too often.”
“That still doesn’t make it right! And now what? Now they expect me to fall into line? To just accept this life and this change? To ignore the past like it never happened? To just pretend that nothing ever happened because I have powers now? Is that what’s expected of me?”
“You’d have to ask Anarka about that. Far as I see it, you’re free to do as you please. However, I would ask you to remain long enough to train you. As you are, you are a risk of exposing the court as an untrained shifter. I know it may be tempting to head back out and expose us, but I ask you don’t as the consequences can be… extreme.”
“What? Like death?”
“Death would be a kindness. You know what they say, right? There are fates worse than death. You are free to discover what they are, but I do discourage such a course.”
Juleka’s face softened as she sighed. “Well, ok. I’ll at least see how things go, yeah? But I don’t want anything to do with my family, especially Luka. If I stay here, I’d rather just your company, please.”
Sass chuckled as he stood. “Then get used to seeing this place. It is probably the only place you can hide aside from your room, but even that’s not as safe as here.”
“There are certainly worse prisons out there.”
“There’s more truth there than you realize. Now, come along. There’re a few other vital areas I wish to show you before we break for dinner.”
Juleka followed Sass back to the main area with the teleportation pad. Her eyes wandered as she was lost again to the grandeur and beauty of the greenhouse when she ran into a small branch of blue leaves with a pink shimmer. She swatted at them and paused when she felt fine, silky fabric. A girl’s giggle startled her as she jumped forward. She whirled around as she gasped, and her jaw dropped.
Up in the branches of a small tree, a woman sat. She wore a long, flowy gown with pink leaves at the top hem and shoulders, dark purple wisteria flowers at her hips, and blue brush with a pink shimmer along the bottom hem of the gown. The main body of it was a purple-pink gradient with the outer skirt a mesmerizing mix of light blue and sea greens. Juleka looked up at the woman’s mesmerizing sea green eyes and wild blonde mane of hair. She smiled and waved at Juleka.
“Hello.”
“Holy fuck, you’re beautiful,” Juleka blurted.
“Thank you. It’s the dress, isn’t it? I find my garments the prettiest in the realm. See, they shift depending on my environment. It can be fun, until you’re in a snowy wasteland or a desert. But here? An enchanted forest. Pretty, right?”
Juleka blushed and looked away. “Y-yeah, the dress is gorgeous. I’ve… never seen such beautiful clothing.”
“I could say the same. I’ve never seen such dark, sinister clothes like yours. Where did you get the idea?”
“Oh, just, y’know, my dark, depressing fashion sense. It, uh, fills the void where my will to live used to be,” Juleka added with a nervous chuckle.
The woman’s eyes widened as she jumped down. “Are you ok? Why do you lack the will to live? Did something happen?”
“What? No. No! I just… bad joke. Very bad joke. Sorry.”
“I don’t understand. Why would you joke about that?”
“Just… really dark humor. Never mind that. I’m Juleka. What’s your name?”
“Oh, yes! I’m Mylene, Heir of the Dragon, and Guardian of Nature. Pleased to meet you.”
“In other words, one of the Paradise set with you and who has been maintaining the greenhouse,” Sass added.
“O-oh? Uh, you know, I’m still new at all this and wouldn’t mind the help. If you don’t mind that is, of course,” Juleka commented.
“I’d love to. I was a little worried you’d kick me out after that display in the courtroom.”
“What? No! I, uh, have a mutual respect for a fellow nature lover. I, uh, would have said wicca or witch before, but, uh, yeah.”
Mylene giggled. “You’re a strange one. Is this what the outside world does to you?”
Juleka forced a smile. “Yup. It, uh, it sure does. We’re all just a, uh, bunch of weirdos other there.”
“Oh, you’ll have to tell me all about it! Like what are the cities like? What are the people like? I’ve only ever had glimpses into all that, but it all looks fascinating.”
Juleka opened her mouth when a peacock screech echoed. Sass groaned while Mylene rubbed the side of her head.
“Was that… a bird. Wait. Paradise set, peacock… was that a peacock?” Juleka asked.
“Finally! There you are!” a shrill man’s voice shrieked.
Sass, Mylene, and Juleka turned to see Adrien with a tall, lanky man dressed in the finest nobleman attire. Beside Adrien was a thin woman with fair skin, long blonde hair, and dressed in a plain brown dress with a moth on the bodice.
“Hello, Duusu. What a pleasure to see you,” Sass said dryly.
“Why are you hiding this far in this wretched place? Do you have any idea how long I’ve treaded on this dirty, awful floor? Oh, and the humidity! Do you have any consideration for my heir’s appearance?” Duus squawked.
Sass pinched the bridge of his nose. “You didn’t have to come along, Duusu. I’m sure Adrien was more than capable of finding his way here.”
“That may be so, but I needed to see the shifter for myself. I hope this one takes far better care than that lesser one. I still shutter at how little personal care that creature puts into his appearance. Honestly, why do you waste your time on that one, dear boy?” Duusu remarked to Adrien.
Adrien snorted and looked away.
Duusu hummed and approached Juleka. “Let’s see, minimal obstruction in your pores. I see a few blackheads, but well maintained otherwise. Hair is well-kept. No split ends either, good job. I can’t see your nails, but I hope those are well manicured. I just don’t like… all of that.”
Duusu motioned to Juleka’s clothes.
“I could say the same for you,” Juleka shot back.
Duusu cooed. “Oh, sassy. Just like dear Sass. Finally, an heir that truly embodies their kwami. You could learn a thing or two from this one, Adrikins.”
“Nonsense. I’m perfect the way that I am,” Adrien countered.
“Ah yes, the fuckboy that can’t see his own flaws. I knew a lot of people like you,” Juleka hissed.
Adrien smirked as he sauntered over towards Juleka. “I see my reputation proceeds me. I must say, it’s been too long since I’ve been in the company of such another splendid beauty such as myself. We simply must have a little get together. Preferably somewhere that isn’t a jungle.”
Juleka raised a brow as she saw Adrien move to reach his arm around her shoulders. “Touch me and I’ll rearrange every bone in your ugly ass mug.”
Adrien cooed as he wrapped an arm around Juleka’s shoulders. “Adorable! You make threats like my dear cousin, Felix. Though he only threatens me if I dare get close to his precious bugaboo. Or if he’s in a bad mood, which, when isn’t he?”
Juleka rolled her eyes when she caught sight of a mischievous smile on Mylene’s lips.
Mylene sighed as she perched back on the branch. “Marinette is such a lucky girl. What guy or girl in this court wouldn’t want a man like him. Oh, the nights they steal away into the forest and the moon is at its apex. Oh boy is there nothing like seeing that beast in the full moon’s light.”
Adrien’s head snapped towards Mylene with a frightful scowl. “Puh-lease! Felix is nothing more than a boorish brute with no real personality to speak of other than his daddy issues. A better question is why wouldn’t any girl or guy want someone as fabulous as me?”
“Because not everyone wants a bottom ass twink.”
Juleka snorted and covered her mouth while Adrien’s jaw dropped. Juleka moved next to Sass and Duusu while ethereal peacock feathers fanned out behind Adrien.
“I have never been more insulted in all my life! How dare you! I am beauty personified! I can be whatever I damn well please, unlike Mr. Daddy-Issues-are-the-Only-Thing-That-Makes-Me-Attractive. So sorry if I don’t just want to be walking around like a hulking brute all the time.”
“I don’t know. I just hear excuses.”
“Excuses? Excuses! How dare you accuse me of lying in such an abhorrent manner.”
“Please, Adrien. We all know you’re a little twink for your pet toy.”
Adrien’s scowl deepened, his nostrils flared, and his ethereal feathers solidified behind him. Mylene’s face dropped as he summoned a pair of bladed fans. She slid off the branch and summoned an elegant sword. They held their weapons at the ready when Sass slithered between them.
“Enough! There will be no fighting here! Take this mindless dispute out to the training grounds or rooms. Now!” Sass ordered.
The woman in the plain dress joined Sass. “I agree! You’re making us look bad in front of our newest member!”
“No, no. Keep going. I want to see who wins,” Juleka remarked.
“What? No! We can’t encourage this. It’s wrong. We must present ourselves as civilized and as a perfect group. If we’re seen fighting, what will the other members of court think?”
Juleka narrowed her eyes. “I’m going to hate you.”
“What? Why? I didn’t-!”
“Can it, Zoe. No one cares!” Adrien snapped.
“I will not. You’re over here acting a fool. You’re the reason we’re the butt of all the gossip. You and your toy. If you cared at all for our image, you’d finally act like the heir you’re supposed to be instead of a whiny playboy.”
Adrien’s vision went red as he lunged for Zoe. Sass caught Adrien by the throat and tossed him into Duusu.
“Escort your heir out of here and see to it that whatever his issues are taken care of,” Sass commanded.
“I agree. This is very unbecoming, Adrikins. Honestly, I don’t know what’s gotten into you. Let’s go.”
Duusu dragged Adrien away. Mylene relaxed and unsummoned her sword. Zoe sighed as Sass grumbled and moved beside Juleka. Juleka knotted her brows as she stared at the floor. A strange feeling overcame her seeing Adrien’s outburst that she couldn’t place and it disturbed her.
“Zoe, Mylene, we’ll see you later. We have business to finish before dinner,” Sass announced.
“Oh, ok! I’ll see you two tomorrow then, right?” Mylene asked.
“Huh? Oh. Oh! Yes! We’ll be back. Promise!” Juleka blurted out.
Mylene smiled and clapped excitedly.
Juleka smiled and glanced back at Mylene while Sass dragged her away.

Chapter Text

Adrien and Duusu stepped off the teleportation pad into the peacock district of the capital metropolis. Duus grabbed Adrien’s wrist and dragged him through the shiny, reflective streets past elegantly shaped buildings made of glass. The passersby stopped to gawk at Duusu and Adrien, who still had his tail feathers materialized. The onlookers in their way jumped out of it and bowed before them.
Adrien tsked and looked away as Duusu pulled him into the lobby of a spa. The employees rushed around like chickens with their heads cut off as they carried out Duusu’s orders. Adrien huffed as Duusu led him down a hall of smooth, turquoise stone and marble lit with low, cool lights.
Adrien and Duusu stepped into a large room with various attendants lined up. Duusu released Adrien and approached the staff. Adrien snorted and strutted around the room. He saw the usual that Duusu would order for when he was upset. A relaxing bath to soak in with a massage to follow, his favorite comfort foods paired with an entourage of staff to complain to, and a comfy chaise with soothing music set up for him to unwind in after everything.
Adrien crossed his arms and turned away. He did appreciate Duusu’s efforts, but it wouldn’t be enough this time. He had Luka, himself, and their relationship disrespected enough to last several months. It would take more than cheap, little fix-its to calm him this time.
Adrien turned and sauntered over to the chaise. He caught Duusu’s eye as he took a seat and fanned out his feathers. He rested his head on the armrest and stared at Duusu. Duusu’s eye twitched as he let out a loud, audible sigh.
“For the love of Velze, Adrien. You two! Go find his mate. Now!” Duusu barked.
The pair of girls flinched, then bowed before they rushed out. Duusu dismissed the others before he approached Adrien.
“Who insulted him today?” Duusu asked.
“I don’t want to talk about it,” Adrien hissed.
“Fine. Don’t talk to me, but I know you’ll talk to your mate. You always do, and I’m always listening. Never forget that.”
Adrien narrowed his eyes as Duusu vanished and left him alone.

~~

Juleka stepped off the teleportation pad after Sass. Her breath caught as she looked up at a rainforest canopy that blocked out the worst of the sun’s rays. Despite the shade offered by the canopy, the air was humid and wet from a recent shower. A chill passed through her as she eyed each of the sterile, clean buildings that struck her as various clinics, hospitals, and funeral homes.
Sass opened his mouth, but Juleka trotted along. People stopped to gawk at her, but she ignored them as she moved from building to building. Her eyes sparked with curiosity at the different shops along this stretch of road. She marveled at the items on display that ranged from medical equipment, medicinal herbs and drugs, incense, oils, and more. She didn’t see any shops that sold things like clothes aside of funerary and medical clothes, food, or other basic essentials.
“Enjoying your sightseeing?” Sass asked.
“It’s… something, but where’s all the basic shit? You know, water, food, that kind of stuff.”
“We get that stuff from the dragons. They’re generous when it comes to us, and they give freely to the snakes. For the others, they have to pay a pretty coin.”
“Why? What makes snakes so special?”
“That falls to Longg and I. We have… an interesting sort of relationship. A relationship that has benefited the many families and descendants of those families. You’ll find that other kwamis and their respective people get similar treatment from others like Longg and I.”
“So… kwamis fuck. Is that what I’m hearing?”
Sass stopped and turned to Juleka. He opened his mouth but stopped when his eyes darted past her. She tilted her head when she heard her name called. Anger burned through her as she recognized the voice as Luka. She turned towards Luka as he ran towards her, his hair a mess of colors.
“What the fuck did he do?” Sass hissed.
“I don’t what to know. C’mon, let’s-,” Juleka started.
“Juleka, my darling girl! There you are!” Anarka cheered.
Juleka’s eyes widened as she saw Anarka rush towards her out of the corner of her eye. She ducked away as Anarka and Luka collided into each other. They recovered while she stared them both down.
“What the fuck are you two doing here?” Juleka roared.
“Jules, this is-,” Anarka started.
“Don’t call me that! You have no right to call me by any little pet name. No right!”
“Jules, please, calm down. Everything is alright. You’re part of the family now. There’s no need to carry on the act.”
“Act? Act! Is that all that was for my entire fucking life? Just a little act you and Luka put on to isolate me? To make me feel worthless? To make me feel like I was a mistake?”
“Juleka, please, we had to do what we did. It’s just… just our way. Your way too,” Luka butted in.
“Can it, golden child! I don’t want to hear jack-fucking-shit from you. From any of you! I was never part of your family. Never! These powers. This… everything! It means nothing! I am not one of you. I will never be one of you!”
“Jules, please, it’s ok. You are one of us now. You are family,” Anarka said.
Anarka held out a hand to Juleka. Juleka hissed and swatted it away. She turned away from Anarka and tripped. She hit the ground as the feeling of a myriad of eyes fell on her. She dug her nails into the ground as she noticed the large crowd that had gathered. She gritted her teeth as hot tears rimmed her eyes as rage and humiliation tore through her.
“Deep breaths, Juleka,” Sass instructed.
“I’m fucking trying. What do you think-?” Juleka hissed in a low voice.
“It’s ok, Juleka. I’m here. I’m finally here,” Luka said as he knelt beside Juleka.
Juleka’s breath caught as her world slowed and crashed down. A shiver passed through her as she felt her bones and muscles shift beneath her skin. She took a breath, then another. She roared as she swung and tore her armor nails across Luka’s face. Sickly green light and hideous shadows trailed along them and left four long, deep slashes across Luka’s face. Screams and gasps tore through the area as she shifted into her naga form.
Juleka hissed and lunged for Luka. Sass caught her and threw her back onto the teleportation pad. She recovered and started for Luka when the runes beneath lit up. She tilted her head as she vanished as the pair of peacock attendants appeared. She heard Sass hiss a curse before she appeared in the peacock district.
Juleka’s eyes widened, and jaw dropped at the beauty of the peacock district. The glass buildings that towered over were works of art first, functional second. The streets were made of a pristine, reflective metal that showed a perfect reflection of anything it caught. The sidewalks and streets were decorated with natural glass flowers with petals that looked like blown glass.
Juleka struggled to stand and move in her naga form. She hissed and spat before she gave up and rolled and dragged herself around. She felt eyes fall on her as she moved about, but she didn’t care about these strangers and their judgements. She explored the many shops that sold beauty products, artisan supplies, art, and clothing. She stopped and admired the many park plazas that were each decorated with a lavish fountain centerpiece and surrounded by hundreds of the same glass flowers. She took a break and pulled herself onto the rim of a fountain. She marveled at the beautiful crystal-clear water with prismatic reflections.
Juleka sighed and laid out on the fountain. She peered out at the onlookers and their shocked, bewildered looks. The pauses they all shared as they whispered to their companions about her. The same curious thoughts got the better of her as they always had. She watched them as memories overlapped of the countless times she had done this before. The numerous times she had fought with her family, when she’d run away to a place like this, and be in a place where she could just be.
Juleka turned away from the onlookers to the magic water. Her ruined world was destroyed. The life she fought to just exist in seemed like a distant dream, but the nightmare didn’t end. She was free of her family’s indifference, had their love, but it still doesn’t feel like she’d want it to. The years she suffered didn’t matter to Anarka and Luka. They were ready to forget them like they were nothing and move on, but not her. To them, this changed everything, but it changed nothing.
Juleka sighed and rolled onto her stomach. She rested her head on her arms as her eyes grew heavy. She shook herself as the sun warmed her and lulled her to sleep.

~~

Adrien stared at the wall as he tapped his fingers on the chaise. He grumbled and snorted under his breath as the seconds passed by. His eyes darted from the door to the wall until the door opened. He perked up, hoping to see Luka, but it was just the two girls.
“Where is he?” Adrien demanded.
The pair of attendants looked at one another with terrified looks. The one on the right pushed the left one forward and ran. Adrien stood and towered over the attendant.
“Well?”
The attendant shrank back. “Uh, well, you see, uh, there was an… incident. L-Luka was, uh… injured.”
Adrien’s eyes widened as he grabbed the attendant. “Where is he?”
“Snake district, at the main hospital.”
Adrien tossed aside the attendant and rushed to the teleportation hub. He hopped onto a portal pad and teleported to the Snake District. He ran through the district to the hospital up to Luka’s room. He burst into the room and froze. He paled seeing the four long gashes across the left side of Luka’s face and his eye.
“What happened? Who did this to you? Was it Lila? I’ll never let her-!” Adrien started.
“No, no! It was just Juleka,” Luka cut in.
“Juleka? Why would she do this?”
“The lassie won’t let go of the past. She won’t accept that she’s part of the family now. And poor Luka. He tried to help her, but she hurt him instead,” Anarka mumbled.
“Well, what are you waiting for? Heal him,” Adrien demanded.
“They have been, The wounds, they just, uh, keep reopening,” Luka said.
“Reopening? How?” Adrien asked.
“Uh, we think it might be a power of Juleka’s. Right, Mom?”
“Aye. We have some records of heirs that are able to inflict horrible, everlasting wounds on their foes. We fear she’s done just that with Luka.”
“What? Where is she? I’m going to give her a piece of my mind!” Adrien screeched.
“Wait, please, don’t-!” Luka started.
Sass stepped into the room and shoved a needle into Adrien’s neck. Adrien gasped as Sass injected a potent, fast-acting sedative into Adrien. Adrien’s eyes rolled to the back of his head as he collapsed.
“Duusu, come collect your heir,” Sass barked.
Duusu materialized and looked down at Adrien, then at Sass. “You know I don’t approve of this method.”
“And you should know that I don’t care. Now get him out of here.”
Duusu tsked, flung Adrien over his shoulder, and left. Sass sighed and approached Luka.
“You are lucky, fool boy. Juleka is unaware of the full range of her powers, and you should be thankful she doesn’t know yet,” Sass scolded.
“Can you heal him, please?” Anarka begged.
Sass hummed. He raised his hand as a bright green light flashed, but Luka’s wounds weren’t healed.
“What did you do? Why isn’t he healed?” Anarka demanded.
“Bandage him up and let them heal on their own,” Sass instructed.
“What? You’re punishing him? Why? He didn’t do anything wrong!” Anarka challenged.
“If you cannot see why, then let it be a reminder.”
“Reminder? Reminder of what? That Juleka is as hot-headed and stubborn as she always has been?”
Sass grabbed Anarka’s chin and squeezed it. “A reminder of this moment. A reminder of what happens when you fuck around with life. We’ve not had to face the consequences of our methods. And seeing her, seeing the everything it just… we must do right by her, not the family. Especially if she’s to be the heir.”
“What? Never! She is volatile, chaotic, and savage. She’s unworthy of a seat in court. Especially after this little stunt she pulled!”
“That decision is not for you to make, Anarka. That is for Velze, and I know you will never challenge Velze, would you?”
“I… no.”
“Good lass. Now, bandage him up. If I see anyone healed him, I will inflict the wounds again and to the healer responsible. Understood?”
Silence.
Sass nodded and vanished. The doctors moved to bandage up Luka’s face. Anarka let out a sigh and gently touched Luka’s right cheek.
“Don’t worry, lad. Everything will be set right. You’ll keep your heir status and Juleka… well, we’ll see where she fits into this.”
Luka gave a weak smile to Anarka before she was escorted out. He sighed and stared at the ground. He would make things right with Juleka. He wasn’t sure how, but he would do right by her.

Chapter Text

Adrien’s eyes flitted open as light blinded him. He lifted his arm to shield the harshest of the rays when he felt the plush chair beneath him. He raised a brow as he looked down at the plump, luxurious purple cushion under him. He felt his breath catch as mist parted from the environment to reveal a beautiful marble and crystal blue water garden. In the center was Wayhem sprawled out on a chaise.
“There you are, my sweet little peafowl,” Wayhem cooed.
Adrien swallowed hard and forced a smile. “Wayhem! It’s… it’s been too long.”
“Oh, I know. The Elders have kept me busy. I’m starting to think they don’t want me to see you. But I simply couldn’t go any longer without seeing my dearest peacock.”
Adrien grimaced. “Really? Hard to imagine why they’d try that.”
Wayhem snickered and stood up. Adrien froze up as Wayhem sauntered over to him. Adrien let out a soft gasp as Wayhem caressed his cheek.
“How’ve you been, dearest? Have you been well?”
“I’ve… been.”
“What troubles you?”
Adrien looked away. “Nothing.”
“Oh, sweetest, I know when something is. Come, you can tell me.”
“No, really, it’s nothing. Just… snakes.”
Wayhem’s smile vanished. “Snakes? Oh, how could I forget? Your favorite toy was damaged, wasn’t it?”
Adrien gave a cautious smile. “Yes. I’ve just… missed him.”
Wayhem laughed. “Is that all? Why didn’t you just say you wanted companionship, dearest? You know I’m always willing to see to you, my prince.”
Adrien opened his mouth when Wayhem pressed his against Adrien’s. He took a sharp breath as Wayhem pressed against him and forced them both down.
“Wait!” Adrien blurted.
Wayhem glared down at Adrien. “What is it?”
“It’s not just that. It’s… it’s also the other snake. Juleka, I think her name is. The one that attacked… him.”
Wayhem’s eyes darkened. “Has your head been turned by another of those slimy serpents? It’s bad enough I allow your toy, but I won’t permit another.”
“No! No, nothing like that. She just has me… on edge. No one has seen a snake capable of injuring in such a way. She just makes me nervous. I was hoping you could speak with her. I mean, you are so much braver and more charismatic than I could ever be. She’d be a fool not to listen to you.”
Wayhem hummed. “That may not be a bad idea. What would you want me to do, prince?”
“Uh, maybe don’t hurt me?”
“Very well. I’ll see it done.”
“Really?”
“Of course. Last thing I want is for you to be in distress like you are now. It makes things less fun for us, unless I use my powers, but you know how much I hate using those on you.”
“Of course. How soon can you do it? The sooner you did, the better I’d feel.”
“I’ll see to it now. I won’t be long, dearest.”
Wayhem leaned in for a kiss as Adrien woke with a start. He sat up and stared at the wall with tear-filled eyes. Remorse washed over him for sending Wayhem after Juleka, but he shook his head and figured better her than him. He let out a deep sigh and got ready for the day.

~~

Juleka walked down an overgrown forest path. She paused as she entered a glen. She glanced around as unease clawed at her. She turned back around down the path, but her path was blocked. Panic seized her as she searched the edge of the glen for a new path, but all were blocked. She gasped when she heard a branch break. She sank to the ground and hid inside the tall grass. Her body morphed into her serpentine form. She slithered through the grass when she saw a pair of white boots stepped out before her.
Juleka raised a brow as she looked up a man with fair skin and messy blond hair dressed in a long lilac coat with purple fur-trimming. She hadn’t seen a demon or malevolent force look this human, but she didn’t care. He was an invader and he needed to be removed.
Juleka lunged and ensnared Wayhem. He let out a shriek as she hissed at him. She raised a hand to strike him down when her hand stopped midair. She strained herself to force it down, but it wouldn’t budge.
“Wait, please! I want to talk!” Wayhem begged.
Juleka hissed. “I will not have words with demons! Begone, foul spirit!”
Wayhem opened his mouth as Juleka roared and used her Inflict Wounds power on Wayhem. He screamed in agony as his form distorted with the glen. Her hand was freed from the power that restrained it and she swung to strike him.
Juleka woke with a start and toppled out of the tree she was in. She hissed when she hit the ground. She rubbed where she hit the ground and saw she was in her naga form. Unease tore through her anew as she reflected on the intruder in her dream.
“Juleka? Where are you?” Sass called.
“Oh, coming!” Juleka yelled out.
Juleka half-slithered, half-crawled to Sass as she fought with the movement. She had been practicing over the week when she wasn’t with Mylene or being hunted by one of the other snakes. Luka had attempted to see her a few times, but Sass always turned him away. She wished she had enough time alone to understand more about all this. She barely could move in her naga form and only knew about two of her powers: healing and inflicting wounds. She wanted to get these under control so she could finally leave, but everyone wanted something.
Juleka arrived in the teleportation lobby where Sass stood with a short man who had short blond hair, piercing green eyes, and was dressed in a black decorated military uniform and cape.
“Who’s this ankle biter?” Juleka asked.
Sass snickered. “Allow me to introduce you to the big cat himself, Felix Fathom, Heir of Destruction. Felix, I’m sure you are aware, but this is Juleka, the lone Shifter.”
Felix bowed his head. “Charmed, Juleka.”
Juleka frowned. “What the fuck do you want, pint-sized?”
Felix paused, taken aback as annoyance flicked across his face before he composed himself again. “Quite… straightforward. It’s different, but a good different. Very well. I’m here to inform you of the Winter Solstice celebration. It’s an annual party the court throws to celebrate the season. Normally, we’d have the snake heir present. However, he is currently indisposed.”
“So? You don’t expect me to fill his worthless shoes, do you?” Juleka butted in.
“We do. We consulted Velze on what he wanted done and he requested you attend in Luka’s place.”
“What? Fuck no. I’m not attending no damn party and I’m certainly not doing it to be Luka’s second. Drag his sorry ass out of that district and parade him around. Who fucking cares if he’s hurt?”
“Juleka, Velze had spoken. He wants you.”
“I. Don’t. Care! I’m not part of your stupid court. I’m not one of you uptight, good-for-nothing, fucking assholes. I just want to get this shit under control and get the fuck out of here. But no! You all feel the need to come looking for me for stupid ass reasons, and I’m just trying to get all this shit sorted. Now you want me to attend a stupid party? Fuck no.”
“Juleka, please, be reasonable. You are-.”
“Reasonable? Reasonable! Fuck you! You want to talk fucking reasonable, join those fucking snakes that are doting all over the damn golden child. I’m sure you’ll find plenty of reasonable people there, but you sure as hell aren’t going to find it here.”
“I dunno, I’m pretty reasonable under the right circumstances,” Mylene commented.
Felix and Juleka turned to see Mylene lounging on some overhead vines.
“Mylene, this is a private discussion. Leave,” Felix ordered.
“Private? Is that why we’re yelling? What are we yelling about anyway?” Mylene asked.
“Some stupid party they want me to participate in,” Juleka hissed.
Mylene gasped and bounced. “The Winter Solstice? Will you be participating with us?”
“Us?” Juleka echoed.
“Yeah! All the Paradise heirs participate in the season parties. So, me, Zoe, Socqueline, Adrien, and, well, typically Luka, but will you instead? I honestly think you’d be a much better participant than Luka. For all his instruction and training, he’s not a very good snake. We’d honestly have a better celebration with a proper snake like you,” Mylene rabbled.
Juleka shrank and looked away as she bit her lip. “Well, I suppose it may not be the worst thing to do.”
“Really?”
“Yeah, well, I guess. I just might need some help if there are any preparations to be made on my end.”
Mylene leapt down and took Juleka’s hands. “I’ll help. I know the snake’s duties like the back of my hand since I’ve had to cover for Luka. Come! We have a lot to do!”
Juleka yelped as Mylene dragged her away to a teleportation pad. Sass and Felix watched them vanish as they lingered.
“What was that?” Felix asked.
Sass smiled. “That is the power of a pretty face and a blooming friendship.”
“A pretty face? You mean Juleka is like Marc?”
“Indeed. A trait she unfortunately shares with Jagged.”
Felix hummed and furrowed his brows in thought.

“Anyway, if you’ll excuse me. I need to see to Luka and inform the main family of the change,” Sass remarked.
Sass disappeared and materialized in the Couffaine main residence. He stepped through the manor up to Luka’s room. He heard Anarka yell, but he ignored her as he phased through the door to see Luka confined to his bed.
“Sass? What’s going on?” Luka asked.
Sass opened his mouth as Anarka burst into the room. He sighed as she stood between him and Luka.
“Leave Luka alone. He’s suffered enough.”
“I will, once I share that Juleka is taking over for the Winter Solstice,” Sass announced.
“What? What do you mean? It’s the heir’s responsibility and she is not the heir.”
“No, but he’s unavailable. After all, it would be unsightly for him to be seen in such a manner. Would it not be?”
“And why would that be? Is it concern for Luka’s appearance, or for Juleka’s? That the very fact that girl is uncontrollable and dangerous? That she should be locked away for what she did to an heir?”
Sass glowered, then smiled. “You and Juleka are so much alike.”
Anarka’s jaw dropped as she stared at Sass in stunned silence. Sass snickered and pushed Anarka aside.
“Rest easy, Luka. You’ll have one less thing to worry about during your recovery.”
Luka looked at Sass, then at Anarka, before looking back at Sass. “Could we… talk? Please? Alone.”
Sass nodded and removed Anarka from the room. “What’s on your mind?”
“Was it… difficult to convince her?”
“There’d have been no convincing if Mylene hadn’t stepped up.”
Luka paled. “She refused to listen to Felix?”
“Oh yes. Even when we pulled the Velze card, she refused. Thankfully Mylene persuaded her. She’s as much of a sucker for a pretty face as Jagged is. Adrien too I suppose. Although, his head hasn’t been turned as much since your partnership.”
Luka sighed and stared at his hands. “Sass, why am I still the snake heir? All this past week, I’ve heard family talk about Juleka. I know they seek her out. They desire her. They need her. All in ways they never did with me. She’s even tending to the greenhouse like a snake should, isn’t she?”
“Indeed. Quite the prodigy. Picked up the gardening far faster than you never did. Not to mention her friendship with Mylene being something you couldn’t ever accomplish. Yet you managed a relationship with a peacock of all things. That is one I will never understand. Makes one really wonder what kind of snake you really are, doesn’t it?”
Luka sneered and snapped his eyes up at Sass. “Can you not say it like that? Yes, I get it. I’m… I’m not like the other snakes, but Velze still chose me.”
“Regrettably. Though I have no doubt that if Juleka’s powers emerged at the proper time, she’d have been chosen to be the heir.”
“And why isn’t she now? Why am I still the heir? If it’s clear enough to you, me, and everyone in the whole court, why am I still the heir with her around?”
“Because Velze sees the turmoil in her heart. Turmoil caused by our ways. Such turmoil that festers hatred and anger like a beautiful, deadly flower. One that is so deeply rooted in her that it poisons her very heart and soul. It is the reason she won’t be heir, or why she’ll stay.”
Luka flinched and looked away. “Is there… is there anything I can do?”
“No. Neither you nor Anarka can do anything to soothe the damage that has been caused.”
“Please. I want to make things right. I just… I want to be there for her. I want to finally be her brother.”
Sass raised a brow. “Did you… did you care about her all this time? Even when she was marked as an outcast?”
Luka nodded. “I wanted nothing more than to be there for her. To lift her up, to make her smile, to just see her happy. So many times I’ve wanted to help, but Mom was always there. Always ready to stop me and tear Juleka down. So many times I had to watch that before I just fell in line like I was supposed to, but I hated it. All I could think about was how lonely and bored she must have been, and that I couldn’t do anything, just like now.”
Sass watched Luka break down into tears. He sighed and shook his head and headed for the door. Luka looked up and reached for Sass.
“Sass, wait, please.”
“What is it?”
“If there’s anything I can do, will you please tell me? I don’t want her to hate me forever.”
“I make no promises, but I will try.”
“That’s all I can ask. Thank you.”
Sass nodded and vanished.

Chapter Text

Juleka yelped as she was dragged off the teleportation pad. She staggered as she fought to keep her footing when she saw Mylene’s enchanted forest dress shift into a fluffy white ball gown.
“Woah!” Juleka gasped.
Mylene stopped and looked at Juleka, then herself. “Oh, yes! We’re in a new environment, so new dress. Speaking of, welcome!”
Juleka glanced around. The area was covered with a thick blanket of snow with the brick pathways clear of the snow. Iron lampposts dotted the paths that gave off a warm and cool light. The main section they were in was clear of any trees or other foliage, but as she looked past the plaza, she saw an area with snow covered pine trees and something glimmering in between the pines.
“What do you think?” Mylene asked.
“It’s very… picturesque.”
“You make it sound like a bad thing. Is it?”
“I… I don’t know. It just feels… too perfect, y’know?”
“Not really. It’s always been like this. At least, long as I can remember.”
“So, did you, like, grow up here? In this realm?”
“Huh? Oh, yes! All families live in this realm. At least, the ones with powers. If you don’t have powers, then you are removed from the realm. Each family has their own way of handling those cases, unless you’re the Cicadas.”
Juleka bristled. “Why are the cicadas so special?”
“Well, aside from leading the court, they are a rare breed. The Elders are very strict about who can and can’t pair with a Cicada. Something, something about getting enough of them so they don’t die out. So, they are the exceptions to the rule. That’s not even going into the other stuff.”
“What… what exactly is the other stuff?”
“Oh-ho! Interested are you at long last?”
Juleka rolled her eyes and crossed her arms. “Look, I just… I’m just curious now. Alright? Is that so wrong?”
Mylene giggled and motioned for Juleka to follow as they headed down the main path. “What would you like to know?”
“I guess, why all this nonsense about the winter solstice? It’s just the start of winter. And I suppose other things if you’re a witch, wicca, whatever, but to most it’s just the start of winter.”
“Oh, it’s so much more than just the start of winter, Juleka. The winter solstice is a time of celebration, when we release unwanted habits, prepare for new beginnings, and usher in special energies, positive and negative. Really just depends on the mortal and how they react to them.”
“And how do we fit into all of it then?”
“Simple. As Paradise heirs, we are all that is natural. Well, except maybe Socqueline. Her place has always felt a little strange, but I don’t pretend to understand her and her family. Anyway, as nature, it should be obvious how I fit into the solstice celebration. You are life, and winter is a season of, well, death, which is a part of life. Adrien is beauty, and there is always beauty to be found in nature and even life and death. Zoe is the big one with me as she’s transformation. And, again, don’t understand how exactly Socqueline fits into all this.”
Juleka furrowed her brow as she looked around at the warmth and festivity. “If this is supposed to be a celebration of the season itself, a season of death, then why does everything look so cheery and warm and… everything winter isn’t?”
“Because that’s no fun. No one wants to attend parties with everything looking dead and dying. It’d ruin the whole mood.”
Juleka stopped. “Hold the fuck up. You’re talking about celebrating a whole season of death, slowness, silence, and rest with fun times, parties, and just everything that isn’t what winter is. Where’s the sense in that? Everything goes to die in winter, goes to rest. It’s not a time to have boisterous parties, indulge in whatever revelries, and live it up. It’s a time to slow down, reflect, and rest.”
Mylene stopped and raised a brow. “But where’s the fun in all that?”
A new anger boiled and raged deep within Juleka. She took a deep breath and pursed her lips as she fought to understand where it came from. She and Mylene stood in awkward silence when a man chuckled. She looked over at the stone fence that lined the path where a man with dark skin and dressed in dark assassin clothes was perched.
“Well, isn’t this a surprise. I was expecting to see Luka, but instead we got the shifter. You seem troubled, Shifter. What’s the matter?”
“Who the fuck are you?” Juleka demanded.
“Delmar, the raven heir. And you would be Juleka, correct?”
“What gave that impression?”
Delmar snorted. “I like you. You have your kwami’s sharp tongue.”
“Is there a point to all this?”
“Not if you want there to be a point.”
Juleka furrowed her brow and frowned.
“Uh, I should also explain that the Paradise heirs aren’t the only ones that sorta responsible for hosting this celebration. Delmar and a few others also are,” Mylene interjected.
“Oh, wonderful. So, who else is there aside from us and edgelord here?”
“Well, there’s Felix the Black Cat of Destruction, Mireille the Dove of Destiny, Delmar here who is the Raven of Sorrow, Kagami the Koala of Lethargy, Veronique the Seal of Oblivion, and Nino the Bat of Fear. We all-.”
“Hold the fuck up again. Right there. You have all the components of the season, but you squander them on cheap entertainment and revelry?”
“Isn’t this what the mundane do?” Delmar asked.
“The-? Right, whatever. Yeah, they have their little celebrations, but they are all packed into one month with a few of them just ripping off pagan traditions just to make a quick buck during the holiday season. After that, there is nothing until spring.”
Mylene hummed. “I think I know what the issue is. You haven’t seen the main plaza and manor. Come, I’ll show you.”
Juleka opened her mouth when Mylene grabbed and dragged her away. She yelped and stumbled about while they headed down the path. She opened her mouth again to protest when she saw the bright, festival main plaza that led up to an impressive, yet imposing manor.
“Ta-da! Welcome to the main area of the winter solstice party. See, the main families join us inside for the dance that lasts until the sun rises. Meanwhile, all the other families stay out here and enjoy their own revelries,” Mylene cheered.
Juleka paled as she felt sick. “Party? Families? Until dawn?”
“Yup. It’s a massive dance where we all, well, dance and enjoy each other’s company.”
Juleka shook her head, tore her hand away from Mylene, and hugged herself. “Oh, no. I can’t. I don’t do parties like that.”
“Ah, c’mon. It’s just a little, itty bitty get together,” Mylene reassured.
“No. I don’t care. Get Luka for this. I won’t do it anymore.”
“But-!”
“It might be better if we get Luka. At least he knew how to have fun and not complain the entire time. That’s supposed to be my job. Not a little snake like you,” Delmar commented.
Juleka’s body tensed up as she balled her hands into fists. “Oh, sure. Get the fucking golden child because he’s just so damn better at everything. I don’t fucking know why your stupid eldritch kwami creature even bothered asking me to fill in.”
Mylene and Delmar gasped and looked at Juleka in horror.
“Juleka, that’s sacrilege! You can’t speak about Velze that way,” Mylene warned.
“I don’t fucking care! I’m not part of this stupid ass court. I’m not part of the stupid ass snake family. I shouldn’t even be here. I’m only here because I’m fucking trapped all thanks to these stupid ass powers. I never asked for this! I never asked to be part of anything! I just… I just want to be left alone.”
A tear slid down Juleka’s face. Mylene hesitated before she reached out, but Juleka swatted away Mylene’s hand and ran. Mylene yelled out, but Juleka didn’t look back. She barreled through the plaza into the pine. She weaved through the trees out to a glen. She took a single step and the ground turned black. She gasped as the pine glen transformed into a quiet, serene piece of winter surrounded by barren trees and brush.
Juleka blinked as she stared at the silent glen. She took a deep breath before she stepped out towards the middle. Her eyes up on the star-filled sky paired with a silver full moon. She strained to hear anything, but it was quiet as death. She collapsed in the snow and felt a slight chill for the first time in a week. All her anger and hurt seemed to freeze over and die in this piece of winter that left her with a sense of peace.
“Oh my, what’s this?” Zoe asked.
“Solitude. As it should be,” Juleka muttered.
“It’s… lonely.”
“As it should be,” Juleka repeated.
“It doesn’t have to, you know? We’re here. We can help fight that loneliness,” Zoe offered.
“No. I don’t want help. I don’t want any of you. I just want to get away. I want to be free of this prison. I just… I don’t want to be here. I don’t want to be reminded of them. Of what I am because of them.”
“You mean, a shifter?”
Juleka sneered. “That’s all you lot see. Oh, look! A woman that can turn into a snake monster! She is our messiah! Oh, great and mighty shifter, please, bless us! Oh, great and mighty shifter, do this, do that, do everything just because of what you are! I can’t even get a fucking moment of peace to learn any of this shit because of people like you all that come to see the freak!”
“Juleka, no one thinks of you as a freak.”
“Oh yeah? Then what am I? What am I to a tiny, annoying, stick up the ass, little bitch like you? Please, do tell. I’m just dying to hear what you think of the worthless, never-should-have-been-born, hopeless, pariah!”
Silence passed between Zoe and Juleka. More tears fell from Juleka’s eyes as her own words sank in. She hissed and turned away from Zoe.
“I don’t think you’re any of those things, Juleka. But at the same time, I don’t know what to think. We only just met, but even so, I see you’re hurt. You’re lashing out. You’re driving people away to keep yourself safe.”
“What the-? What are you? A damn therapist?”
“Not quite. I just… I’ve learned from a young age to watch, to listen, and to learn. You learn so much just by watching and listening. I’ve seen it many times in your world.”
“My world? What do you mean by that?”
“Well, it’s long and complicated, but I was raised in the mundane world for a time. I was brought into the realm as a young teen. In that time, I was fascinated, even as a child, with transformation. It’s where I learned what I did to witness the whole process. Maybe it’s why I’m so drawn to you.”
“Drawn to me? Why?”
“I think, even though you’re life, you have the power to change in ways I’ve not seen since I left the mundane world. I just fear what that change could bring and how it’ll affect us and our image.”
“Our image? What does that mean?”
“I just… I worry. I’ve seen a lot of bad transformations. Even in the court, things just seem to change for the worse and they blame me. Even though I try to make it positive, it always fails. But that won’t deter me. I will help anyone I can and make them better people. We all have that potential, and so do you. I just know it.”
“Well good for you, princess. However, life isn’t just sunshine, rainbows, and endless optimism. Sometimes things don’t ever get better. Sometimes, we’re stuck in a bottomless pit of a void with no hope of escape. Sometimes, we don’t want to be better. We just want to fall. That’s all I want and to be left alone.”
Zoe opened her mouth, then shut it and left. Juleka sat in silence until Sass materialized and sat beside her.
“Is there any chance of me backing out of this? I don’t want to do it,” Juleka begged.
“I’m afraid not. We’re stuck in this together, but I’d rather you over Luka. As does he.”
“What do you mean?”
“I shared the news. Anarka was angry, but Luka was happy. He knows you will be better than him.”
“He… he does? Why the fuck would he think that? What fucking trick is this?”
“No trick, Juleka. He knows better, even if Anarka is too stubborn to. He’s just… not cut out to be the snake heir. Then again, not many have in recent generations. Very much like the rest of the court.”
“What do you mean?”
“Somewhere, somehow, a connection was lost, severed. Where there were once Highborns everywhere, we are lucky to see a handful of heirs as Highborn. The families are full of Lowborns and Midborns. With more and more Lowborns as the generations pass. Even within the Couffaines, finding a Midborn is rare. The fact that we have you now is a true blessing to me. Everyone too, but they don’t matter as much.”
Juleka snorted. “Is this the part where you tell me to stay because of all that nonsense?”
“No. This is the part where we remind them what a Highborn is meant to be and the connection to their kwami. I can only do that with you. We can only do that by reminding them what the season is meant to be.”
“But that goes against the whole party thing that they seem to love so fucking much,” Juleka hissed.
“Well, we can go along with them, or we can do the right thing. I’d rather do the right thing, but what about you?”
“Would the right thing mean crashing a party and destroying the festive mood?”
“Wouldn’t have it any other way. So, are you in, Juleka?”
“Fuck yeah! Count me in. Let’s remind them the solace of winter.”

Chapter Text

Luka stepped off the teleportation pad into the winter plaza. Snow fell from unseen clouds and didn’t dust the ground. Warmth surrounded him and the others that flooded the plaza for the event. Many of the families that arrived rushed straight to the main plaza where the families celebrate outside the manor the crown families dance and make merry within. His eyes scanned the crowd for the snakes, but they weren’t to be found. He turned around towards the enchanted winter forest to see the snakes that arrived head right for there.
Anarka tsked beside Luka. “Have they no shame? Their heir is right here, and they run off to find that beastly girl.”
Luka flinched. “R-right. Uh, Mom? I’m going to see Adrien. I think you’ve kept us apart long enough.”
Anarka scoffed but didn’t fight Luka.
Luka bowed his head and head off into the forest. He trotted down the perfectly carved paths Mylene made into Adrien’s little frozen glade. Luka’s eyes widened at the frozen willow trees and their ice crystal leaves. They glistened in the bright silver moonlight that added to their beauty. He admired the trees when he heard laughter echo from further in. He trudged through the powder snow to a large frozen lake where a woman identical to Adrien skated around with other peacocks and families.
Luka grinned. “Adrienne!”
Adrienne stopped and grinned. She broke from her skating posse and tackled Luka into the snow. “Oh, my handsome snake! I’ve missed you so much!”
“I’ve missed you too, my dazzling peacock. How’ve you been?”
“Ugh, dreadful! I couldn’t see you for more than a week because of that stubborn mule of a mother of yours. Honestly, what mother would keep her son from seeing his partner?”
“Apparently Anarka. I suppose it’s just… the snake way.”
“Well, she should get used to me by now. I am your mate, which makes that mule my mother-in-law, unfortunately. But enough about me for once. How are you? How is your injury?”
“Healing well. It’s just been boring since Anarka has kept me holed up in the snake district and away from the others considering Sass’s warning. It definitely would have been better with you there.”
Adrienne smirked and cuddled closer to Luka. “Perhaps we could skip out on that stupid ball. It is the same every year and I’m sure we won’t be missed. We usually aren’t.”
“It’s tempting, love, but I need to see Juleka. This is the first time for a lot of things, and I want the night to go well for her.”
“Well, I’ve not heard good things so far. I’ve had droves come over to my little glade from hers as they whine and complain about it being boring and not very festive. Those same people are saying you should have done the preparations instead of her.”
Luka grimaced. “How little they realize. Between you and Mylene, I don’t actually prepare anything.”
“Maybe, but at least we made it fun.”
“Have you seen what hers is?”
“Well, no, but I can only imagine with what a kill joy she is.”
Luka pursed his lips and furrowed his brow. “Let’s go look.”
“What? Why? Can’t we just cuddle?”
“Later. I have to see for myself.”
Adrienne groaned but followed Luka as they treaded from the glade, through the forest, and approached the snake glade. They shuddered as a cold breeze wrapped around them as they neared the barren trees. They looked into the glade to see several large bonfires around the outside with yule log piles near each fire. Many members of the snake family had already gathered around the fires and rested beside them as they basked in the warmth. In the center was a raised smooth stone platform dusted with uneven piles of snow. Juleka sat on the platform in naga form with a full body veil around her that he assumed kept her warm. Other snakes sat on and around the platform in a solemn moment before they retreated to the fires. As each went to the fires, they grabbed a yule log and tossed it in.
“Wow. I can see why so many are saying this is boring. Where’s the fun? Where’s the music? Where’s the everything? It’s all gloomy and depressing. Just like-.”
“Death,” Luka finished.
“Yeah, that. C’mon, let’s go back to my glade.”
“I’ll catch up with you. Let me just… pay my respects.”
Adrienne pursed her lips but didn’t stop Luka.
Luka stepped lightly through the hard, crunchy snow. He approached the platform and saw it was a dark stone, almost black with a snake scale texture. He tilted his head but knelt at the base and curled up on a corner of it. He let out a sigh as the quiet mixed with the occasional crack and pop of a bonfire and hushed buzz of the other snakes wrapped around him.
Luka relaxed as he let his mind wander as he enjoyed the moment of solace. Away from the main family, away from Anarka, in a safe haven away from it all. It felt right being in this space. It wasn’t fun and festive, but it was what he experienced in every winter in the mundane world. Cold, harsh, but quiet. It allowed for these moments of rest and thought.
Guilt gnawed at Luka at the missed opportunities. That Juleka’s powers never developed sooner. That they treated her the way they did. She didn’t deserve any of it. She was family and deserved so much better. Even now that her powers had emerged and she’s everything the Elders had longed for, there was so much push back that he didn’t understand.
Luka understood that Juleka’s pain and past had inflicted deep wounds on her. Her lashing out, her hurting him, everything was just her reacting to that pain they had caused. He wanted to make things right. He wanted to see her happy and where she always belonged. In the court, as the snake heir. It was her right by birth, yet they forced it on him still.
Luka couldn’t wrap his head around it. The Elders were desperate to have a return to form. To bring back power to the court. They needed the few Highborns in power to achieve that. They needed to make more Highborns to ensure their vision. Keeping him as heir harmed their goal. It hindered the snakes that loved Juleka. It robbed them of what they should be doing. It would return them to that they sought. They had to look no further for evidence than this right here.
This area, this glade, it was everything the winter solstice should be. Luka knew that. Winter was a time of quiet and reflection. It wasn’t meant to be thrilling or exciting. It was when everything returned to seed and rested in death before it could return. Everything here was what the celebration should be, but Juleka was still dismissed for this. They would rather he “prepare” a frivolous party with meaningless nothings than truly appreciate the season for what it was: death.
Luka looked up at Juleka with tear-filled eyes. She deserved so much more. He wanted to give her so much more. He just wanted to be happy. To see her smile like she did when they were kids. To welcome him again with open arms. To make up for all the wrong he ever did. He didn’t want her to hate him. He didn’t want her to curse his name. He just wanted to be a family again. He wanted his sister back, but he didn’t know how to get her back.
A gentle hand touched Luka’s shoulder. He jumped and looked over at Adrienne knelt beside him. She opened her mouth, looked at Juleka, then at Luka.
“It’s time. The Solstice Dance is about to begin.”
The platform shifted as Sass raised his head as a monstrous anaconda. Adrienne grimaced and hid behind Luka while Luka bowed his head to Sass. He glanced up as Juleka moved down towards the forest. He watched the shadow of her silhouette pass by, uncertain if she saw him there or if she cared. Sass transformed into his human form and followed Juleka out of the glade. The other snakes that were around the faux platform moved over to the bonfires.
“Luka, we don’t have to join them. Like I said, they won’t notice. I mean, Anarka might, but no one else will.”
“What about Juleka though?”
Adrienne opened her mouth, then shut it. “You really are worried about her, aren’t you?”
“Of course. She… I just… I… I don’t want her to be alone anymore.”
“Well, if we’re going to go, let’s go. We’ll keep an eye on her together.”
“Thank you, Adrienne. Truly.”
“Yeah, well, it’s important to you, so it’s important to me.”
Luka smiled and kissed Adrienne. “I love you.”
“I love you too. Forever?”
“And for always.”

~~

Juleka hid in a dark room while she listened to the clamor of partygoers rush into the ballroom. Her nerves ate away at her with each long minute that passed. Sass materialized beside her in his kwami form.
“You know, hiding in a closet isn’t going to make this any easier.”
“Would you just hush? I’m just… I’m just trying to psyche myself up.”
“What has you anxious?”
“The whole ass party. I know we talked about this, rehearsed, covered my remaining powers, the whole everything, but I’m just nervous.”
“Look, best advice I can give you is let’s get this over with. I don’t want to be around these people any longer than necessary.”
“Fine, but I’m keeping the veil on.”
“Oh, come on! We spent hours on your dress, makeup, everything.”
“I know, but what if they gawk at me? What if they trash my outfit? What if they think it’s too immodest? Not that I care, but I mean, I don’t want all to think that.”
“Mylene?”
Juleka blushed and looked away.
“Juleka, you’re talking about the heir to the kwami that doesn’t believe in such coverings, and I have to fight with her to show some semblance of decency despite her very nature. I don’t think Mylene will care.”
“Fine. How about… how about I enter the ballroom all mysterious and you take the veil off? Sound good?”
“Fine. Let’s get going. I don’t want to be here any longer than I have to be, and I know you don’t either.”
Juleka nodded and took several deep breaths. She squirmed her way out of the closet into the hallway. She took slow steps the closer she got to the ballroom. She peered into the massive room and the horde of partygoers.
“I don’t think I can do this,” Juleka muttered.
Sass transformed and took his human form. “You can. I’ll be there with you. Let’s do this together.”
Sass offered his arm to Juleka who took it. She took a deep breath as he led her into the room. She kept her eyes forward as heads turned towards her. The crowd parted as the other heirs stepped forward. She grimaced as Sass stopped and tugged at her veil. She gulped hard as she looked at their fluffy, bright, and festive clothes. Marc made his way through and stepped out front.
“Juleka! I’m glad to see you join us. Families, members of the court, I’m-!” Marc started.
“I present the first Highborn snake since the time of plague and pestilence. The first shifter the court has seen in millennia. My preferred heir, Juleka Couffaine!” Sass announced.
Sass tore off the veil that shrouded Juleka. Silence gripped them like death as they gawked at Juleka. She wore a ragged black dress with the back torn down to her hip, the skirt in tatters with a rip clear up the front to just below her hip, and ombre stockings and gloves that petered out around her shoulders and thighs that made her look diseased. The turquoise of her hair was gone, and her pitch-black hair draped around her like a heavy veil. The top half of her face was covered with a dull iron snake skull mask and her eyes hidden behind black fabric in the mask.
Juleka took a sharp breath and held her head high. The other heirs and the crowd buzzed while Marc paled, and Felix glared at her. She took a gingerly step on her tiptoes as she exaggerated her movement to mirror her moving as a naga, putting more sway into it. She felt Sass close to her as they took a place on the dance floor. Sass offered his hand. She took a deep breath and took it. The floor cleared, music started again, and the lights dimmed.
Juleka and Sass nodded as they danced to the slow, somber tune. Darkness was cast upon the crowd while the only light was on the empty dance floor. The light lost its warmth and turned a cold blue like death. She shivered as cold filled the area that was chased away by the magic of her clothes. She tried to focus on Sass but couldn’t ignore the soft whispers through the darkness.
Juleka had heard them since the festivities started. Nearly everyone that entered her glade left as soon as they saw the true nature of winter. They made their disgust known, berated her, jabbed that Luka should have been the planner, and more. The only people that didn’t turn away from the truth were the snakes, the ones like her. Even Luka didn’t turn away but embraced the season.
The music hastened to a harsh, guttural, and haunting melody. Juleka closed her eyes as she trusted Sass to this part of the dance as they had practiced. Their movements became swift and deadly as they glided around the floor. The whispers faded as she fell to her thoughts.
The snakes didn’t judge Juleka. She watched as they were confused but embraced it. They needed no instruction and knew what to do. She had watched as each one came, expected them to leave without all the fun party festivities, but they stayed. They partook in her solace and reflection before they joined others at the yule bonfires. Amongst all the surprise was when Luka joined the solace.
Juleka had watched him like a hawk. She didn’t trust his intention and waited for him to belittle and berate her, but it never came. She watched him take part in the quiet. She watched him reflect. When she saw the sorrow and despair in his tear-filled eyes when he looked at her, she was confused. He never looked at her like that before. She wanted to believe it was a trick, but it felt too honest, too sincere to be a trick.
The music entered their crescendo as Sass took over the dance. Juleka allowed her body to go completely limp to imitate a dead body. She reveled in the ghastly whispers of the court as they bore witness to their macabre dance. They shared in the same remarks she had heard all evening, but it felt different here. This time, it was her that was ruining their mood. It was her that was reminding them what the season truly is. And she wouldn’t let them forget it.
Sass and Juleka’s dance came to an end as Sass dipped Juleka and let her fall. The crowd all gasped when Sass caught her arm when she was not an inch from the ground. He lowered her to the floor and placed her hands on her stomach. He took her veil and covered her body, then picked her up. He headed for the exit when Marc called out.
“Where are you going? The party has just started.”
Sass stopped. “We won’t take part in this frivolous revelry anymore. You all should be ashamed you even allow this to continue.”
“I don’t understand. It has always been this way, Sass.”
Sass opened his mouth when Juleka rose up. She tore off her veil, jumped out of his arms, and faced the crowd.
“You have forgotten your ways long ago. You ignore the truths to indulge in frivolous nonsense. Do any of you have any idea what winter really means?” Juleka challenged.
“It’s a season of celebration, when we release unwanted habits, prepare for new beginnings, and usher in special energies, positive and negative.”
“And that is where you are wrong. Every single one of you. Winter is time of quiet, reflection, and rest. It is the season where all returns to seed and the world is covered in a blanket of death. And once the death has passed, life finds its way back in the spring. Instead, you squander the season and what it offers on these parties. It’s no wonder the court has fallen so low. It’s no wonder you’ll never see another Highborn or shifter like me!”
Juleka’s breath caught when she realized the words that escaped her. The entire audience gasped and was in a fit over her words. She opened her mouth but stopped herself. She turned and headed to the exit. She stopped at the door and looked back at everyone.
“Enjoy your little party… and your own slow death!”
Juleka stormed out while the ballroom behind her was in an uproar. She ignored them as she left the mansion and stepped out into the main square. The other families stopped and gawked at her. The other snakes perked up and rushed up to her.
“My Lady, what brings you out here?” a young woman asked.
“I’m returning to my solace. You are all free to join me, if you wish to indulge in what this season offers. If you’d rather squander it, then stay out of my glade.”
Juleka continued through the plaza to the forest. She glanced behind her to see the snakes followed her, but no others. She breathed a small sigh of relief. She didn’t want the other families to join her. She just wanted those like her.
Juleka’s step faltered before she corrected her stride. The thought surprised her. Her as one of these snakes? She had spent the past couple of weeks refuting and denying them, but here she embraced them. She saw how much like them she was. Or rather, how much like her they were. A smile tugged at her lips at that thought.
Juleka held her head higher than before as she led her family to her solace.

Chapter Text

Adrienne took her seat in the council room with the other heirs. She scanned the room for Luka but didn’t see him present by the time Marc took his seat. Nerves clawed at her as she stared at his empty seat.
“I call together this meeting to discuss the evening of the Winter Solstice. The incident in question is Juleka and her disregard for the celebration and humiliating the court. I know many of you have concerns that you’ve discussed with me. I call to those to state their case,” Marc announced.
Felix was the first to stand. “With all due respect, punishment needs to be delivered. She blatantly strolled in, soured the entire celebration, and then insulted every one of us. We cannot allow this behavior to go without some consequence.”
Marc hesitated. “Well, I… will consider it.”
“Consider it? Consider what? Letting her off the hook? Letting her continue on with this insulting, rude behavior? She needs to be reminded of her place!”
“And what is her place, oh mighty Black Cat? What is her place as a Shifter?” Nathalie challenged.
Felix opened his mouth but shut it.
“Perhaps it is better you think before you open that trash chute you call a mouth. Need I remind you that Juleka has only been here for two weeks. In that time, she’s been holed up in the greenhouse with only the other snakes, Sass, and Mylene having constant contact with her. In all that time, has anyone shared with her how things are supposed to even work?” Nathalie questioned.
“Mylene, would you possibly know?” Marc asked.
“Well, I’ve tried. Whenever it’s just us, I try talking to her, but she usually dismisses anything regarding the court. Even when she speaks with Sass, he never addresses court formalities. I did tell her what the Winter Solstice was about, but she just kept going on about it being a season of death and saying we shouldn’t be throwing big parties like this. Then the whole thing at the actual event,” Mylene explained.
“Speaking of, I know a fair few also spoke up about her dower mood and… misguided ideas about the celebration of the solstice. I figured perhaps we could discuss that as well along with her… behavior. Perhaps we could get a voice from our kwamis as well?” Marc asked.
Silence passed through the room as the kwamis materialized as a mix of human and kwami forms.
“E-excellent. So, uh, who’d like to start?”
Gimmi, Marc’s kwami, stepped forward. “I would. With the events in question, Juleka and Sass acted as was tradition. This season is that of death. For us to celebrate like we do now is a mockery of how it’s meant to be. I imagine having not only the first Highborn since the Black Death and to also have the first shift in more than a thousand years, Sass likely wanted a return to form. And Juleka seemed to be following her instincts as the Highborn shifter that she is. As such, I move that nothing is done to her, but a reflection on the court and what it means to be the representatives of your concept. Right, Vana?”
Vana looked up from the sketchbook he looked over with Nathaniel. “What? Oh, yes, sure. Whatever you say, Gimmi.”
“Are you even paying attention?”
Vana turned back to the sketchbook. “Of course. Solstice. Tradition. All that nonsense.”
Gimmi rolled her eyes. “What of my brothers and sister? Please, share your thoughts.”
“I enjoyed it. Didn’t realize how much I missed the traditional celebrations until Sass and the shifter brought it back. Better than celebrating with those parties,” Plagg remarked.
“I don’t care for the season and personally prefer the parties, but this isn’t my season. It’s Plagg’s. Still, I enjoyed the change of pace,” Tikki commented.
“I speak for Ursa and myself that we prefer the return to traditional celebrations. We’ve seen countless versions of this season across the universe, and it is celebrated as Juleka and Sass did that night,” Oron declared.
“Same for Moirai and myself. All things have a beginning and an end. We celebrate the beginning in spring, the joys of life in summer and autumn, but winter continues that when we should be celebrating the end of all things. Parties are nice, but we are betraying ourselves by continuing with these newer ways,” Orsus announced.
“Winter has no influence on my concept, and I have no opinion on the matter,” Aislinn said.
“I love the idea of returning to form. Don’t know why we stopped in the first place. Sure, not all winters are the same, but it is a time of quiet, hibernation, and a fight for survival. Plus, parities are stupid,” Longg hissed.
“They are not! But I do agree that a return to tradition wouldn’t be the worst thing. Though, can we keep things looking pretty? Longg said it herself. Winter isn’t the same everywhere and we should be allowed to have some pretty things and not just ugly barren snow wastelands,” Duusu complained.
“I like the idea of changing things back to how they were. Perhaps we can remind more of the heirs of their places, so to speak,” Nooroo said as he shot a glance at Felix.
“Whatever they want,” Wayzz commented.
“No comment,” Terra said.
“I think it’s a good idea. We spend the longer seasons all wrapped up in everything that it’d be nice to return to form. I actually had some ideas of how to enhance the season throughout and not just for the solstice,” Psyche declared.
Vana cooed. “You’ll have to share those with me.”
“Later. Memoria, Lethe, continue,” Gimmi said.
“It might be for the best, it just can be hard. We had this change because the heirs needed a change. They needed something to lift them up, especially after the mentioned Black Death,” Memoria reminded.
“Oh, yeah, forgot about that, but that was then, no? Shouldn’t we just forge ahead?” Lethe asked.
“We should. Winter has always been about learning from our past and preparing for something new. The time after the Black Death has long since passed and we should have returned to form a long time ago,” Luz pointed out.
“Whatever you guys want. I’ll just enjoy everything the back here,” Trixx remarked.
“Silkii and I’s concepts have no place with winter, so no comment,” Pollen said.
“I feel it is best to have this return,” Fang said.
“And I think based on the past and what has been shown, we should have more return to form than just the Winter Solstice,” Min commented.
“Agreed! There’s so much more we could improve to better connect with our heirs again. Right, Daizzi?” Mullo asked.
Daizzi shrugged.
“Well, yes, but we do need to careful about how we approach it. Sudden shifts may cause more distress and discomfort. We need to go about it carefully,” Fluff pointed out.
“I agree. You’ll have more problems if you move too quickly,” Kaalki added.
“C’mon, everyone! We never babied the heirs or families before. When we spoke, our words were final. Let’s just return to form. Sass showed us what we could have again, so let’s do it!” Roarr exclaimed.
“Unless you’re all too scared,” Styx mocked.
“This is all stupid,” Orikko grumbled.
“Well, it’s… concerning, but it might be a nice start. I know I’d like to have better connections with my pups,” Barkk stated.
“C’mon, winter can be more than depressing nothingness! We should keep the parties and remind people it’s still a fun season!” Xuppu argued.
“Not everything is fun, Xuppu. Winter is supposed to be a time of quiet and reflection. As the others have stated, it is a time of death and quiet,” Corbin countered.
“Exactly. Rest is very important,” Mell said.
“Sure, whatever he said,” Stompp added.
“I agree with the others to return to form. Not all celebrations need to be wild, crazy parties, and Sass reminded us of that,” Ziggy said.
Mill nodded.
Adrienne watched the other heirs speak with their kwamis while Marc looked down at his hands. The uneasiness in her stomach clawed its way to her throat. She fought to keep it down when Marc looked to the council.
“Take your kwami’s words into consideration for this vote. Know that whatever is decided here I will convene with Velze about our next steps. The matter is this: do we return to tradition and how we used to celebrate the winter and abstain punishment for Juleka and Sass, or do we keep with how we celebrate now and punish the pair. We’ll start with Nathaniel and work our way down the ranks. Nathaniel?” Marc announced.
Nathaniel blinked and looked around. “What are we talking about again?”
Marc pursed his lips as he fought for composure. “New addition to the vote! You can be for the change, against the change, or no vote. Nathaniel is no vote. I, myself, vote for a change. Marinette? Felix?”
“I agree with Tikki that this isn’t my area to speak, but I wouldn’t be against it,” Marinette said.
“What? Absolutely not! Juleka and Sass need to be punished. These are not our ways!” Felix roared.
“Are you kidding? Could you not imagine all the things we could discover? All the different traditions we’ve abandoned that we can bring back? I’m all for the return!” Jalil cheered.
“It’d be a nice change of pace and a different way to celebrate. You all have no idea how hard it is to really plan all these silly parties you seem to like to throw. Let’s change shit up,” Alix commented.
“I like the parties. I vote to keep them,” Aeon said.
“We’re celebrating one way or another, so I don’t care,” Mireille said.
“Our concept may have no place in winter, but I still say no to returning to tradition,” Wayhem said.
“I mean, I suppose there’s no harm?” Mylene asked.
“I see no issue, but I want to keep some pretty things. I agree with Duusu that not all of winter should be seen as ugly,” Adrienne said.
“What? No! We shouldn’t change things if they aren’t broken. Right, Socqueline?” Zoe pressed.
Socqueline hesitated as she looked at Marinette, then Zoe. “I… I… no comment!”
“I agree with Zoe. The parties aren’t hurting anyone. Besides, winter is so boring without them,” Kim complained.
“I think it might be interesting to bring back older traditions, but what if we added new stuff that aligns with it? Like Psyche suggested,” Ondine pressed.
Nora hesitated. “I don’t know. No comment.”
“No. Final answer,” Lila said.
“I’d like one season without endless parties and ruckus. The quiet would be nice to reflect before spring,” Nathalie commented.
“I’d like a season to forget, so yes,” Veronique said.
“No comment,” Chloe said.
“No way! Juleka’s ideas were boring and stupid!” Manon whined.
“I feel the same as Fang. Let’s change things,” Alya said.
“And I think the same as Min, so yes to change,” Max said.
“I like the idea of changing things back to tradition but bringing in new ideas like Ondine suggested. Let’s do that!” Jessica cheered.
“I don’t like any of this. It’s stupid and confusing. I say no,” Chris grumbled.
“I suppose we’ll see how this goes?” Ali asked as he looked at Rose.
“Y-yeah! I’m sure it’ll be amazing!” Rose cheered.
“I say let’s do it!” Fei Wu exclaimed.
“I’d rather keep things the same,” Nino muttered.
Aurore looked up from her phone and flipped off the other heirs.
Sabrina chuckled nervously. “Don’t mind her. I think we’d both like to see those changes. Maybe incorporate what Ondine and Psyche were suggesting?”
“I agree with Xuppu. My vote is no,” Bridgette said.
“I liked the Shifter’s methods. My vote is yes,” Delmar said.
“What are we talking about, Ivan?” Kagami asked.
“The Winter Solstice and returning to more relaxing ways of celebrating winter,” Ivan said.
“Oh. I want relaxing, whichever option that is,” Kagami said.
“Whatever she wants,” Ivan added.
“I could use some more relaxation. Planning these parties get so boring and hard,” Jagged Stone complained.
“You mean Penny has enough on her plate already doing the actual planning because you’re too lazy,” Ivan commented.
Jagged Stone waved his hand dismissingly.
“Um, Penny? What about you?” Marc asked.
“Huh? What? Ask me later, whatever it is. I have-,” Penny started.
Kagami shifted and touched Penny’s shoulder. Penny gasped as her eyes rolled back and she passed out.
“Uh, Kagami? Why did you-?” Marc started.
“She needed it. Even ants need sleep,” Kagami said with a yawn.
“R-right. Well, with a majority vote for change and to clear Juleka and Sass of punishment, I will bring this decision to Velze. I will also present the notion offered by Psyche and Ondine to include new ways of celebrating that reflect the original meaning of the Winter Solstice as presented by Sass, Juleka, and all records Nathalie and Jalil can retrieve.”
“You’re making a mistake, Marc,” Felix hissed.
“I… I am just the figurehead. We all decided on this, Felix. You cannot blame me just because not everyone shared your perspective. You are welcome to stay and present your case to Velze, if you think you can convince him,” Marc challenged.
Felix sneered and growled. “Are we done here?”
“Yes. Meeting adjourned. I will summon you all back once I have spoken with Velze. Kwamis, I ask you remain for this task, please.”
Everyone stood and left while Felix stormed off. Adrienne lingered a moment longer as she looked back at Luka’s empty seat. The unease didn’t fade and still held a death grip on her.
“You look ill. Are you getting sick?” Alya asked.
Adrienne jumped and took a step back. “Uh, no. I just… I’m worried. You know, Luka.”
“Oh, do tell.”
“It-it’s nothing. Just… uneasy.”
“Like something bad is going to happen?”
Adrienne looked away. “Something like that.”
“Well, don’t ignore that feeling. That’s your intuition speaking to you, fancy bird. If you feel something bad is coming, then something likely is. Keep an eye on your little toy,” Alya warned.
Adrienne paused and looked back into the council room. Thoughts of the worst case stormed her mind. She gulped and pushed them away. She reminded herself that everything would be fine. Nothing bad would happen. Everything would be fine.

Chapter Text

Luka sat along the wall in the meeting room of the snake assembly. He half-listened to the desperate pleas of the other snake family members and Anarka’s stubbornness. They had been in a vicious cycle since the Winter Solstice. All the snakes praised Juleka and Sass’s methods of celebrations and begged for Juleka to be elevated to heir. Anarka refused to hear their sound reasonings and dismissed them all. Anarka still believed Luka to be the best fit.
Luka sighed as Anarka continued to back him, having long forgotten he was in the room. Frustration gnawed at him as he watched the roundabout before him. Juleka was the better choice. He knew it, the other snake members did, but only Anarka refused to relent. She tried to paint him as this perfect figure that he never was. A figure he was often admonished for not being before.
Luka shook his head and slipped out of the room. He headed to the teleportation pads and jumped on a random one. He didn’t care where he went, but anywhere was better than here. The pad hummed to life and transported him to the swan district. He paused as he took in the elegance of the white and black buildings accented all the more by the constant rainbows that reflected in the sky. He passed through the misty streets to the lake everything was built around. Its iridescent waters shimmered and shined in the afternoon sun. Swan birds and swan family members gleefully swam in the ethereal waters. In the center of all of them was Ondine, who stood out with her blazing red hair. A little girl pointed him out to Ondine, who swam over to the shore to greet him.
“Luka! What a surprise! What brings you to my humble district?” Ondine chirped.
Luka looked away. “Oh, you know, just getting away from my mom. And the other snakes too, I suppose.”
“Oh dear. What happened?”
“The same thing I imagine you all were summoned for, without me. To discuss the Winter Solstice.”
“Oh, yes. Would you care to hear how it went?”
Luka shook his head. “I honestly don’t see the big fuss. Juleka was right. We should be celebrating the way she did. The way Sass wanted. It was quiet, peaceful, and delightful. Even their dance was haunting, but perfect. It was everything that the snakes and season should be. Instead of considering her for so much more, they want to keep me as heir.”
Ondine tilted her head. “That troubles your soul deeply. Sit, tell me way.”
Luka considered, then sat on the ground. “Where do I even start? I guess, the biggest thing, I’ve never been good at maintaining my duties. The greenhouse is a big example. When Sass was explaining to me everything I had to do and the sheer amount of work it’d take, all I could think of is how much I didn’t want to do it. I just wanted to slither off and bask in the sun or anything that wasn’t working. And I hear how effortlessly Juleka has taken over, and there is already a perfect example of her being better than me.”
“Fair. We do have our duties that we need to attend to. If we can’t, then another heir should be considered. That’s understandable,” Ondine commented.
“Exactly! But they want to keep me. The same person that they berate and deride for having a relationship with a peacock. The same relationship that they dismiss, label as fake, and just ignore. They all say a snake could never be with a peacock. You’re just her little toy. You mean nothing to her. All these things and she’s the only one that makes me feel… normal.”
Ondine hummed. “Well, how does Adrienne treat you?”
“She’s… she’s kind to me. She worries about me and my needs. She’s there for me when I’m upset and need to be comforted. She never brings me down or reminds me of my failures. Or rather, what I fail to be. I love being with her. She makes me feel like I’m worth something.”
“I see. I see. A thought. Maybe another reason you feel worth something to Adrienne is because she doesn’t treat you like a snake?”
Luka furrowed his brow. “That… you’re right. I mean, aside from the pet names, she rarely calls to attention that I’m a snake.”
“And would you say that makes you happy?”
Luka considered and nodded.
“Well, if I may be honest with you, I never saw you as a snake. You fit the bill in a few places, but you just… you’re too different.”
“What do you mean?”
“Well, I mean no offense at all, but you seem more like Jagged, a goat.”
“What? How?”
“Let’s see. There’s the lack of a desire to do any hard work like the greenhouse you mentioned. Whenever I do see you, you’re often relaxing or just taking it easy. You know, hardly working. You never seemed to take to any of the snake stuff. Except being a therapist of sorts, but even then you didn’t care for all that stuff either. I’d wager you’d like the more relaxing, self-indulging stuff that Jagged does.”
“But how would I now?” Luka asked.
“Look into the waters.”
“Waters?”
“Yes. The waters of swan districts are blessed and will show whoever gazes into them what I and Psyche see. The soul, bare and true. Gaze upon the waters and lay your soul bare for yourself to see. Witness what I’ve always seen you as.”
Luka crawled over and peered into the water. He expected to see a weak snake, but saw a goat in place of reflection. His eyes widened as he fell back. His eyes misted over as Ondine’s words and his own realizations sank in.
“Well?”
“I… I see. I’m… I’m wrong. I was never supposed to be this, was I? And now I’m stuck like this.”
“Not exactly.”
“What do you mean?”
Ondine motioned Luka closer. “This has all happened before.”
Luka’s eyes widened as he scooted within earshot of Ondine. “What has?”
“Children of mixed families. Hybrids, kinda. Ones that carry the blood of both. Most hybrids are ignored and just live their lives unhappily, unless they are made heir, like yourself. In your chance, you can request a change from mighty Velze.”
“What? I can?”
“Yes. You need only tell him to look into your soul. When he asks if that is truly what you want, you agree. On your word, he’ll turn you into what you’re meant to be. A lot of heirs usually just suffer in silence, resigned to their fates, but Psyche told me of a few that turned out to be Highborns for the other. Perhaps you being a snake Lowborn means you’re actually a goat Highborn?”
Luka’s jaw dropped. “I… I need to speak with Velze. Where’s Psyche?”
Ondine grinned. “If you hurry, you can catch him. He’s talking with Marc as we speak now. Council room.”
“I… I need to go! Thank you, Ondine! Thank you!” Luka yelled as he took off running.
Luka hopped onto the main teleportation pad that brought him to the balcony of the main station tower. He ran in, pushed people aside, and rushed up the stairs to the council room. He burst into the room, startling Marc, Nathaniel, and Velze. Marc stood as Luka staggered up to the table and leaned over it to catch his breath.
“Luka? What’s the meaning of this? This is a private counsel. You can’t-!” Marc started.
“Velze, mighty Velze, I beseech you. Look into my soul,” Luka begged.
Velze’s eyes flashed with recognition and approached Luka. Luka looked up as Velze stared into his eyes right to his soul.
“I see. Is this truly what you want?” Velze asked.
“More than anything,” Luka said.
“Wait! What’s going on?” Marc yelled as he joined Luka and Velze.
“A goat is trapped in a snake’s cage. I will be setting it free,” Velze answered.
“That’s… that’s something that is allowed? I thought we were as we are, and nothing could change that.”
“None but me.”
“O-oh, right. Um, Luka, are you sure you want to do this?” Marc asked.
“Yes. It’s for the best.”
“Best for who though?”
“The snakes, Juleka, and myself. The snakes deserve an heir that better upholds their everything. Even if it’s not Juleka, they deserve anyone other than me. And maybe, just maybe, not being a snake means I have a better chance of making amends with my twin. But more than that, I want to be happy with myself.”
Marc’s eyes widened as he bowed his head. “I respect your decision. Velze, with your permission, may we watch? I would like to greet Luka again, but as his true self.”
Velze nodded and placed a hand on Luka’s forehead.
Luka gasped as cold struck his body as he felt a part of himself was ripped away, sundering his soul. He felt alone and scared as he staggered back, taking sharp, shallow breaths. The loneliness was chased away by a moment of warmth before pain tore through him. He took a sharp breath as his entire body felt on fire. He fell to his knees as his bones broke and moved, muscle slithered under skin, and foreign powers swarm his mind. He let out a breath as he collapsed, and his vision faded to black.
Marc screeched. “Oh no! Oh no! Oh no! Nathaniel! Help!”
Nathaniel looked up from his sketches and glanced around. “What happened?”
“Nathaniel! Pay attention! We have an issue!” Marc cried.
Nathaniel stood and walked around to Marc. He paused when he saw Luka, now with a toned, muscular body, goat horns, short black and purple hair, and goat legs.
“When did we get a goat shifter?” Nathaniel asked.
“Nathaniel, it’s Luka! He wanted to change and now he’s a shifter! Velze, is this your doing? Did you make him a shifter?”
“No. I merely allowed the goat out.”
“Shit! What do we do? Oh, what do we do? What do we do!” Marc panicked.
“Maybe we should get a snake to-,” Nathaniel started.
“What? No! We can’t let this out yet. We need… we need to call for the court. Yes. The court. We’ll just… we’ll just add it to the news, right? Hey, everyone, here’s Velze’s verdict. Oh, and by the way, no big deal, Luka is now a goat shifter. How? Oh, we don’t know. Guess they’re the oh so lucky ones.”
“Uh, should we tell the Elders?” Nathaniel asked.
Marc tensed up and grabbed Nathaniel’s shirt. “No! I got this. There’s no need to involve them at all. I can do this. I have everything under control. I promise. Please, just don’t tell them!”
“Easy, I won’t say anything, but if we do it your way, we can’t just leave Luka here. We should move him to another room.”
“Yes, good idea. Move him to-,” Marc started.
“Hold up. I’m not moving him. You think I can pick him or even move him? Look at him!”
Marc’s face turned deep red that spread to his ears. “I’m not trying not to.”
“Hold up. Are you attracted to him?”
“Well, obviously. Do you see that fucking body? He’s too fucking sexy.”
“Marc, you’re one of few cicadas with powers. You need to find a wo-,” Nathaniel started.
“The Elders already know what I am! As does half the court, if not all of them. That’s why the Elders arranged you and my sister. Now, drop this and just create something to move him while I go die in a corner.”
Nathaniel raised a brow as Marc covered his face and ran to a corner of the room and sat with his back to them. He shook his head and used his powers to create phantoms with a stretcher to move Luka. He set Luka in Marc’s office and closed the door. He glanced at Marc before he sighed and left.
Marc glanced back and waited for Nathaniel to leave before he stood and stepped into his office. He collapsed onto a chair and looked at Luka on the floor. Dread and nerves tore through him. Velze phased through the wall and looked down at Luka.
“What is your will, Velze?” Marc whispered.
“Luka will be Jagged Stone’s heir.”
“And the snakes?”
“Sass has made his choice, and he will not waver. I will trust him.”
“Does that mean-?”
“Juleka will be the snake heir.”

Chapter Text

Luka groaned as he moved. He raised his hand to his head as he opened his eyes. He gasped as he saw the black and purple hair that covered his forearms. Panic set in as he looked down at his legs to see a pair of black goat legs like a satyr. A gasp escaped him as he made a goat bleat. He covered his mouth and felt the beard scruff now on him.
“Oh, thank goodness. You’re awake,” Marc said.
Luka looked over as Marc knelt beside him. He tilted his head as Marc reached out and hesitated to touch him several times.
“Is everything ok, Marc?” Luka asked.
Marc’s face flushed. “Huh? Oh. Oh! Y-yeah. Just… trying to be respectful.”
“Respectful? What do you mean?”
“Uh, well, you see… you… I just… I can show you. Uh, do you… do you need help standing?”
“Please.”
Marc held a shaky hand out for Luka, who took it. Luka staggered up to his feet. He took an awkward half-step and tripped. He collided with Marc and sent them both to the floor. He gasped and pushed himself up as he looked down at Marc’s red face. He opened his mouth when a sensation washed over him. It was sweet, yearning, and tantalizing. It awoken a strange hunger that wasn’t there before. A hunger that demanded he gorge himself on this feeling.
Luka looked down at Marc with lited eyes. He reached a hand up to Marc’s chin when Marc’s eyes widened, and he scrambled out from under Luka.
“Gotta go! Meeting. Here. Mirror wall!” Marc blurted.
Luka lingered a moment longer after the door slammed and Marc left. The sensation waned, but the hunger remained. He knotted his brows as he looked up at the wall Marc warped. His eyes widened seeing the chiseled, muscular body he sported instead of the lanky one. Hair covered his neck, part of his shoulders, and down a small length of his torso before it petered out. His long hair was cut short to a shaggy mess that sported a pair of ram horns with a pair of red amber eyes in the mess of it all.
“Look who’s finally awake,” Ziggy said.
Luka startled as Ziggy materialized. His eyes widened seeing her dressed in a black halter crop top with a large boob window, skin tight black pants, and thigh-high black boots. She leaned against Marc’s desk as she tossed an apple about.
“Ziggy? Shouldn’t you be with Jagged?” Luka asked.
“Not anymore. My place is with the shifter and newest heir,” Ziggy announced.
“Heir?”
“Right-o. You’re the goat heir now. Velze’s word, Luka.”
“What about the snakes?”
“Ten guesses who Velze named.”
Luka’s eyes widened as they sparked with hope. “So, what now?”
“Now your little cicada is going to announce you to the whole court, Jagged joins the Elders, and you’re stuck with me.”
“That’s… not so bad. Could you help me, please?”
Ziggy nodded and helped Luka up. She showed him how to walk as a satyr and helped him along until he got the gist of it.
“So, how’s it feel to be one of us?” Ziggy asked.
“It’s… different. Uh, would that happen to be one of your apples, Ziggy?”
“Why, yes. You hungry?”
Luka nodded. Ziggy tossed him the apple and he took a large bite out of it. She watched him devour the apple and the puzzled look when he was still hungry.
“You seem confused. Still hungry?”
“Yeah. Are you sure it was one of your apples? I had your food before. Horribly tempting, but also filling.”
“You saying the apple wasn’t tempting?”
“No. It still was, but I’m still hungry. When I’ve had your food before, I felt full after just one bite, but not this time.”
“Consider it the first of many changes, Luka. We’ll cover them shortly, but we need to get you ready to be presented as the goat heir. Let me just.”
Ziggy trailed off as she snapped her fingers. Luka turned human with the new muscular body, shaggy black and purple hair, red amber eyes, and ram horns. He looked at himself in the mirror in his old snake-themed clothes. She stepped into the mirror and curled her lips.
“Oh, that won’t do. What is this?”
“What’s wrong with it?”
“Let’s see, the snake details, its far too modest for that of revelry, especially a shifter. Nope, we do this first.”
“I don’t think-,” Luka started.
“Hush! You are to be presented as my heir. You must look the part, Luka. Now, relax, and allow me to work my magic.”

~~

Adrienne took her seat in the council room with the rest of the heirs. She drummed her fingers against the table while the other heirs chattered amongst each other. She scanned the room for any sign of Luka or Sass but didn’t see either. She bristled when she saw Anarka stand at the end of the table near Jagged.
“What is she even doing here?” Adrienne hissed.
“Well, this is a decision in terms of the snake heir, right? She would need to know if she’s joining the Elders,” Mylene whispered.
Adrienne’s breath caught. She had forgot that it wasn’t fully officialized that Luka was the snake heir or that Anarka was to join the Elders. Was this more than just Juleka’s behavior? If it was, then where was Luka? Where was Juleka? She frantically looked around again when Marc took his seat.
“Greetings, everyone. Uh, I have… lots of news. Uh, I just… I don’t know where to start,” Marc stammered.
Felix rolled his eyes. “We’ve talked about this Marc. Just say it.”
Marinette lightly swatted Felix’s shoulder. “Leave the poor thing be. Can’t you see he’s under a lot of pressure right now. It almost makes me wonder what happened.”
Marc tensed up at Marinette’s knowing, mischievous look. “R-right. Well, we have a… we have a lot of news. Uh, first, and to get it out of the way. Velze declares that Juleka will not be punished. He also declares that the idea of weaving traditional customs with new ones that Psyche and Ondine pushed is allowed so long as the new customs reflect what is being celebrated.”
Murmurs of approval passed through the court while Ondine frantically waved her hand around.
“Yes, Ondine?” Marc asked.
“Can I help with some of the new customs, pretty please?”
“Y-yes. I would suggest you work with Juleka on that.”
Ondine grinned and bounced. “Oh, I will. I can’t wait.”
“Which, speaking of Juleka, where is she?” Marc asked.
“Still in the greenhouse, locked away where she belongs,” Anarka blurted.
Marc gave a nervous chuckle. “R-right. Uh, well, we’ll just make sure the news gets back to her. But! There’s been another decision made.”
“What decision?” Felix demanded.
Marc took a deep breath and forced a smile. “Juleka has been named the snake heir by Velze himself.”
The court erupted into chatter while Anarka’s face fell.
“What do you mean she’s been named the heir? What about Luka?” Anarka demanded.
“A-about that. You see-,”
Marc was cut off when Ziggy materialized in the center of the table.
“Ziggy? Where’ve you been?” Jagged asked.
“I’ve been preparing something special, and I want to be the first to invite you all to a special party tonight. In honor of a special pair of someones that are worth celebrating!” Ziggy announced.
“Hell yeah! Who are these people?” Jagged cheered.
“Our lovely snake heir, Juleka, and, presenting my newest heir declared by Velze himself, Luka Stone!” Ziggy cheered as she pointed towards Marc.
The court gasped as they turned to look where Ziggy pointed. Luka stood between Marc and Nathaniel. Adrienne’s jaw dropped as she took in Luka’s new appearance. He was a whole head shorter than he was before and his beautiful long black and turquoise hair gone for a rough, glorious mess of black and purple with ram horns tangled in there. His simple snake clothes traded out for a black studded cropped leather jacket, his chiseled, muscular chest bare except for a set of black studded harness straps that hugged his breasts, a pair of belts crisscrossed over his hip, black pants, and knee-high biker boots with purple laces.
Adrienne gawked at Luka’s new form as she fought with her own feelings. She had loved the Luka that was a snake. The tall, lanky, awkward man with the long hair he cared poorly for. This Luka that was smaller, toned, and sexualized felt alien to her. She was still drawn to him, but she wasn’t sure if it was because it was her Luka, or because of some other reason. Her mind raced with questions until she moved to stand but was grabbed by Wayhem. She gasped as he yanked down on her arm.
“You’re not going to him, are you?” Wayhem hissed.
Fear tore through Adrienne. “I-!”
Adrienne was cut off by Jagged’s whooping and hollering. She chanced a glance as Jagged ran up and hugged Ziggy and Luka.
“This is amazing! Look, Penny, I have an heir! We don’t have to worry about fucking to get me an heir.”
Luka cringed at the thought while Penny’s shoulders dropped but she forced a smile.
“B-but, Jagged, sweetie, what about an heir for me?” Penny pressed.
“Ah, I’m sure you’ll figure it out. I’m sure there’s someone who likes that fat ass of yours. If not, maybe you’ll get lucky and Velze will just name a new heir. Sure, it’d be Lowborn, but that’s standard now, right?”
“Jagged, that’s-,” Luka started.
“Ah, this isn’t about her or me, it’s about you! And Juleka too, but she’s not here. And tonight we’re going to celebrate! And you’ll all invited!” Jagged declared.
“Oh, Jagged, one more thing. Luka’s a shifter just like Juleka,” Ziggy commented.
“He’s what?” Felix demanded.
“He’s shifter?” Marinette asked.
“Prove it!” Wayhem ordered.
Ziggy shot Wayhem the side eye while Luka looked at him and Adrienne. His eyes never left Adrienne as Ziggy used her powers to shift him into satyr form. Adrienne’s eyes widened seeing his satyr form. She glanced over him but found herself on his eyes full of despair and were pleading. Guilt gnawed at her as she broke free of Wayhem, ran up to Luka, and threw her arms around him as Ziggy reverted his form.
“Is it really still you? Are you still the Luka I know?” Adrienne begged.
“Why would I change just because I’m a goat instead of a snake?” Luka asked.
“I just… you’re so… different. I just-,” Adrienne started.
“Oh, please. You must just be foaming at the mouth over all this, Adrien. What would you want more than a more attractive toy to play with?” Felix mocked.
“How dare you! I-!” Adrienne attempted.
“I agree with Felix. We all know better, Adrienne. You don’t love anyone in this court. We’re all just your playthings. This false concern you share for Luka is sweet, but you aren’t fooling anyone. Especially me,” Wayhem added.
“I-,” Adrienne said.
Jagged pulled Luka away from Adrienne and glared at her. “I have to also agree. I didn’t care too much when he was a snake because snakes, but he’s a goat now. We can’t be held back by one creature, and that’s all you’ve done. Well, that arrangement ends now.”
Luka sneered, grabbed Jagged, and threw him against the wall. The court gasped while Luka scooped Adrienne up in his arms. Everyone gawked while he glared at everyone with dark, dark eyes.
“Enough! All of you! Do you fucking hear yourselves? Do any of you have any right to fucking judge Adrienne or myself when none of you are any better? Do you all seriously want to air all your dirty laundry that I’ve had to listen to as a lowly little snake therapist?”
Silence.
“I didn’t fucking think so. Then let’s get one thing fucking straight. Adrienne is my partner. I love them more than anything and I’m fucking sick of you calling me their toy, their prize hoe, and whatever else. They are my partner, and I love them! If you cannot or won’t respect that, then fuck around and find out fuckers!”
Silence.
Luka snorted and left with Adrienne in his arms. Adrienne curled up in his arms and nuzzled her head in the nape of his neck. He carried her back to her residence in the peacock district to their room. He set her down on the chaise and knelt in front of her.
“Are you ok?” Luka asked.
“You… you stood up to the entire court. I… I never thought you would do that. Not that I’m complaining or upset with before, but I never thought I’d see it.”
Luka chuckled and looked at the floor. “I didn’t expect it either. I just… I got angry. I’ve been angry before, but not like this. It was all-consuming and hard to contain. I tried to maintain some composure, but seeing you in pain hurt me all the more. I couldn’t keep up appearances at that moment. I had to let it out. I’m sorry.”
Adrienne slid from the chaise into Luka’s arms. “Don’t apologize. I… I’m still shaken by it and worried how it’ll come back to me. I mean, you know how my parents are and… and the Elders, but I’m just glad not to hear any more of that today.”
Luka looked up at Adrienne with the same dark, dark eyes that were now full of sorrow and regret, but something Adrienne wasn’t familiar with.
“Luka, are you ok?”
“Huh? Oh, just… just tired, I guess. This whole everything has been… draining.”
“Luka, why did you do it? Why did you change like this? And why didn’t you tell me first?”
“I… I’m sorry. I just… I felt awful. I felt useless. I felt powerless. Anarka wanted me to stay as the snake heir, but I knew I wasn’t suited to be the snake heir. It didn’t fully hit until I ran into Ondine and spoke with her. Well, I talked, and she listened. Hearing my own words and considering her questions, I saw the truth of it. Then I looked into the waters of the swans and saw my soul was a goat, not a snake. That’s when she told me about Velze changing hybrids like me to be the other half of their blood. I just figured it was the best for the snakes, Juleka, but most of all… myself.”
“Oh. Well, I can’t fault you for that, but it is… difficult. I admit, I’m worried you’ve changed from the Luka I fell in love with, and I’m scared. I love you and I don’t want to lose you.”
Luka held Adrienne close. “My darling peacock, my beautiful, handsomest creature, I could become a different person to the world, to those that never mattered, but I will always be the Luka you fell in love with. The man whose heart will always belong to you and you alone.”
Tears welled in Adrienne’s eyes. “Even… even as others will pursue you and fight over you now as a goat? To seek out your companionship? Even then?”
Luka smiled softly. “Adrienne, have you forgotten already? We promised each other that our bodies could be shared, but our hearts would always belong to just us. That didn’t change then, and it won’t change now. Even if the entire court wants a little slice of me, you’ll always have the whole cake.”
Adrienne giggled and then smirked. “Perhaps I could get a little sample?”
Luka grinned and kissed Adrienne. A delightful shock passed through her as she melted against Luka. He pulled back as she moved closer for another kiss but stopped as their lips grazed each other’s. She locked eyes with him and saw a spark of light and a hunger she was familiar with.
“Would you like another sample, or the whole cake?” Luka teased.
Adrienne grinned. “You delightful tease. I’ll take the whole cake, but don’t forget the extra frosting.”
Luka snorted and laughed before he kissed Adrienne.
Adrienne smiled and sighed. She held Luka closer with each kiss. Pleasure flooded her as he explored further, and her worries seemed miles away. Bliss warmed her as she happily surrendered herself.

Chapter Text

Juleka walked down an aisle of herbs as she checked on them. She paused when the lights flickered on as soon as darkness fell over the greenhouse. She stared up through the glass at the cool-colored cosmos like an artist painting. She smiled at the beauty of it before she continued with her nightly check. She paused again when she heard heels against stone in the silence. She furrowed her brows and turned as Jagged tackled her. She hissed and snapped at him, but he held her close.
“Juleka! My favorite daughter! How’ve you been?” Jagged asked.
“What the fuck are you doing here, Jagged?” Juleka hissed.
“I came to see you. You are my favorite daughter.”
“I’m your only daughter, idiot.”
“As far as I know. Hey, want to come to a party?”
“No.”
“Aw, c’mon! It’ll be fun. You can get out of this musty, humid greenhouse. Mingle with the court. Maybe we can help you get some good dick.”
Juleka hissed. “I like girls you fucking fool!”
Jagged grinned. “You like girls? So do I! I know a lot of girls. C’mon, let’s get you some pussy.”
Juleka yelped as Jagged scooped her up and stole her away. Her mind blanked as they teleported away before it caught up with her. She hissed and shifted to naga form as they landed. Jagged screamed and threw Juleka down. She scrambled up to be faced with Jagged, Luka, and Ziggy.
“What the fuck am I doing here? And why the fuck is your hair purple? And this fucking getup? You decided being the golden child was too good for you and decided to hit the streets to pick up your entourage?” Juleka snapped.
“Juleka, it’s-,” Luka started.
“It’s a party, Juleka! We’re celebrating you and Luka tonight. Isn’t it exciting?” Ziggy asked.
“Party celebrating me and Luka? Who the fuck do you think you’re fooling? Whenever the fucking golden child is included, it’s only a party for him. What makes this any different?” Juleka demanded.
“That’s because you two are shifters and our newest heirs,” Ziggy answered.
Juleka’s blood ran cold. “What?”
“That’s right! Velze changed Luka into a goat. Turns out he’s a shifter too. And! Velze named Luka the goat heir and you the snake heir. So, we celebrate!”
Juleka stared at Ziggy in disbelief. She looked between Ziggy and Luka before she looked away. Disappointment tore through her not for being named the snake heir, but not being the only shifter anymore. She didn’t care for this change and everything with it, but it made her special. Even if it trapped her in this world, it made her worth something deep down. She hated it, but loved it. Now that was taken from her too. She was nothing but another shifter now with Luka one too.
Juleka hissed and turned. “Yeah? Well, fuck you! And fuck all this shit! What makes you think I want to celebrate anything with that fuck stain?”
“Because it’s also a party for you?” Ziggy asked.
“That doesn’t mean anything to me. Did you honestly think it would?”
“I mean, why not? C’mon, just cut lose a little, meet some of the other heirs. I know there are plenty that have wanted to get to know you.”
“No.”
Ziggy sighed. “Fine. How about a deal? Finish one drink of my choice, then you can leave.”
“Uh, Juleka, I wouln’t-,” Jagged started.
“Fine. Just give me your stupid drink so I can get the fuck out of here.”
Ziggy smiled. She waved her fingers around and created a small purple bottle. She tossed it over to Juleka, who caught it. Juleka raised a brow as she looked the bottle over, but it was blank.
“What is this?”
“The drink of my choice. A simple blend. Drink that and you can leave.”
Juleka glared at the bottle before she turned to Jagged. “What the fuck is this?”
Jagged smiled nervously. “Uh, well, that’s Ziggy’s special blend. It, uh, brings out the inner party in people?”
“You fucking what? I’m not drinking this!”
Ziggy smiled and shrugged. “Then I guess you’re not leaving, so get comfortable, sweetie.”
Juleka seethed as Ziggy, Luka, and Jagged headed out. She slithered around in a huff when she heard Ziggy’s voice overhead. She tossed the bottle aside and snuck around to the main room. She shrank back at the sheer number of people gathered. Ziggy’s words were lost to her before the room erupted into a boisterous party.
Juleka shifted to her normal form as she hid in the back. She watched everyone party and make merry. She grimaced until she saw Luka melt into the fray as he became the center of attention. Annoyance tore through her seeing Luka enjoy himself so easily. Her annoyance flared to anger as everyone gathered around him and vied for his attention. She snorted as it was Marc that stole away Luka from the other court members. She rolled her eyes and slinked away. She walked away from the party until the music died away and she heard crying. She headed to the sound and found Penny in an office.
“Who are you?” Juleka asked.
Penny gasped and wiped away her tears. She stood and held out her hand. “I’m Penny Rolling, the ant heir. Pleasure to meet you, Juleka.”
Juleka eyed Penny’s hand and cautiously shook it. “Uh, likewise, I guess. What are you doing in here?”
“Oh, working. An ant’s work is never done.”
“Is crying part of your work?”
“Oh, pay no mind to that. I just… I had a rough day.”
“What happened?”
“Oh, just… just seeing Jagged get an heir. Which, good for him. He can retire to the Elders. But there’s still no ant heir and now that he has an heir, he has no intention of, well, having intercourse with me.”
“Ew. Why would you voluntarily have sex with that disease-ridden reject?”
Penny sighed. “I just… it’s complicated.”
“Don’t keep me waiting.”
“I… no. I shouldn’t be bothering you. You should be out there celebrating.”
“I’d sooner kill myself than be out there.”
Penny flinched. “Doesn’t that sound extreme?”
Juleka rolled her eyes. “Right. Anyway, why bother with Jagged? If he has not interest in you and you need an heir, why not fuck anyone else?”
“I… I can’t. Jagged is Highborn.”
“So?”
“So, everything! I’m one of the last Midborn ants that can have kids. Everyone else in my clan are Lowborns. With Jagged, I could possibly have a kid that’s Midborn or even Highborn. Then the ants would have a proper heir.”
“Is it really that important to have Highborns?”
“It’s everything, Juleka. They once ran the court. They were everywhere. But they were lost. The blessings and our connections got weaker until they were nothing but Lowborns with the few Midborn and Highborns. Our bonds with our kwamis so weak that we might as well be abandoned. I thought if I could have a strong child after being as devoted to Mill and her concept, it could strengthen the blessing. I just needed a Highborn and that was Jagged.”
“I mean, I suppose I get it, but why not just try your luck with someone else? Better than just pining after a man like him.”
“I know, but I couldn’t. Giving up is for quitters. I knew if I worked hard, then I would succeed.”
“Uh, huh. And where did that get you now?”
Penny opened her mouth but broke down in a sobbing fit. “Nothing! It’s so unfair! Jagged gets a Highborn heir and I’m stuck with nothing! My clan is doomed!”
Juleka pursed her lips as she watched Penny cry. All the annoyance and frustration melted as pity pooled in the pit of her gut. She felt bad for this stranger when she had no place to care. She felt the quiet desire to help her, but wasn’t sure how or if she even could. The powerlessness festered into anger that she directed towards Jagged and Luka.
Juleka sneered as her rage grew. This was all Jagged and Luka’s fault. Jagged was a lousy man and failure of a husband. Luka was a self-centered, egotistical jackass that demanded all the praise and admiration. The memory of Luka in the crowd of partygoers ran on repeat as it fanned the flames. She hated that Jagged dragged her away from her sanctuary to torture her with reminders of how much better the golden child was. How much everyone would always love him over her. How insignificant she is and had always been.
“Fuck this shit! Sass, where are you?” Juleka blurted.
Penny startled as Sass materialized in the office.
“Finally asking for help to get out of this deal you made with the devil?” Sass asked.
“Fuck that! You’ve experimented with liquor, haven’t you?”
Sass narrowed his eyes. “What are you doing?”
“These motherfuckers want me to fucking party? Let them fucking regret bringing me here. Get me the hardest shit you have.”
“You know we can just leave. I can-.”
“Fuck that! I want them to fucking suffer. You said it yourself! Fuck around and find out!”
Sass sighed. “This is a bad idea. You’re going to get yourself in a lot of trouble.”
“Good.”
Sass pinched the bridge of his nose and summoned a tall bottle. Juleka snatched it out of his hand and downed it. She gagged slightly at the harsh, unforgiving bitter taste. She shook it off and chugged the entire bottle. She took a deep breath as a rush crashed into her. She took a step as her knees buckled. Sass caught her as her vision blurred and head spun.
“You shouldn’t have chugged that. A shot would have been fine.”
Juleka waved her hand lethargically. “Puh-lease! I’ve had way worse.”
“Can you even stand?”
“Of course, I can! What do you think I am? A child?”
Juleka pushed herself away from Sass as she spun and fell face-first onto the floor. Sass sighed and pinched his nose.
“The floor hurt me, Sass!” Juleka whined.
Sass rolled his eyes and helped Juleka to her feet. “Let me help you out to the party at least.”
“No! I can take care of it. I know which way to go. I can smell the purple from here.”
Sass sighed and let Juleka go.
Juleka stumbled out of the office and to the party room. She fumbled around as she crashed into everyone on her way. They yelled out and cursed her out as she hissed and snarled back at them. Her step faltered as she listened to the music. She curled her lip as she swayed back and forth to the beat of it. She smiled as she swayed in circles through the dance floor. She closed her eyes and let the music guide her through the crowd when she fell over someone.
“Ow! Who’s the big bitch that got in my way?” Juleka hissed.
Marinette giggled and held out a hand. “Did you have a nice fall?”
Juleka knotted her brows. “Fuck you.”
“Well, I’m certainly not saying no to you.”
Juleka’s face turned bright red to her ears. “You, uh, would want to do a sex with me?”
Marinette laughed. “Oh, you’re so much fun. I like you.”
“I-.”
“Marinette,” Felix said.
Juleka’s eyes crossed for a moment as Felix stood beside Marinette.
“What the fuck are you doing here, ankle biter?” Juleka hissed.
“Do you have a problem with me being with my fiancée?” Felix hissed back.
“Fiancée? You’re engaged to pint-sized here?” Juleka blurted.
Felix stood between Juleka and Marinette. “She is, and we’re happy together, worm. So, crawl back to whatever hole you crawled out of.”
Juleka snarled as she shifted to naga form. She hissed and swatted Felix with her tail that sent him barreling into the crowd. Gasps tore through the room as the music came to a dead stop and everyone stared at Juleka. She slithered towards Felix but was cut off by Luka.
“Juleka, stop!” Luka ordered.
“Fuck you! I don’t take orders from the likes of you or that fucking housecat!” Juleka roared.
Luka recoiled at Juleka’s breath. “Are you drunk?”
“Of course, I’m fucking drunk. It’s the only way I can even remotely suffer an outing like this. It’s the only way I can suffer you!”
Luka flinched. “Juleka, please, let’s just step aside and we can-.”
“We can what? Talk? What’s the matter, golden child? You don’t want to air our dirty laundry to the entire stupid ass court that just absolutely loves you? Are you scared that you’ll lose all that praise and not the be the favorite anymore?”
“No. Juleka, you’re making a scene.”
“Good! I want you, all of you, to see this! Are you all fucking looking? You better fucking be!”
“Juleka, please, let’s-.”
Felix charged in, pushed Luka aside, and punched Juleka in the gut. She hissed as she was launched into a wall.
“Felix!” Luka yelled.
“Get out of the way, Luka. You all may have forgiven her for her transgressions for the Solstice, but I will not let a personal attack with no provocation go unanswered. She will be punished. Kim, to me!” Felix roared.
Kim took his place by Felix and stood ready.
“Wait! Please! Let me talk to her. I can reason with her!” Luka begged.
“Reason with what? She’s no civilized person, Luka. Just look at her. She’s nothing more than an unruly, savage beast!” Felix hissed.
“That’s not true! She’s hurt. She needs our help. She needs-!”
“Enough!” Juleka screeched.
Everyone turned as Juleka sat coiled on the floor and using her arms to keep herself propped up.
“Juleka, please! Let us talk. Let me help,” Luka begged.
“Help? You want to help after fucking years of ridiculing me? Of looking down on me, treating me like trash, of making me feel like I was utterly worthless? You think just like Anarka, don’t you? You think you can just ignore all those years and start fresh. You think you can just act like the past never fucking happened.”
“No! I want to make things right! I want to help!” Luka countered.
“Lies! All fucking lies! You never loved me. You never cared about me. I was the inferior one. The one that should have been tossed aside. The one that should have been thrown into the Seine to fucking drown!”
“What? No. No! You are my sister. I always loved you. I always cared. I do want to help you, please.”
“Fucking lies! Every single one of them! And I’m so fucking sick of the lies. I’m so fucking sick of feeling absolutely worthless. I’ll never be anything with you around. I’ll only ever be second best. And most of all, I’m fucking sick of looking at that ugly ass mug of yours and attention seeking slutty clothes. I just want you to fucking DIE!”
Lights flickered as a few went out. Dark energy swirled around Juleka that shot out. Luka froze as it headed for him. Felix grabbed and pulled on Luka but was caught in the blast. Breath left their lungs and their hearts stopped beating as they collapsed. Screams tore through the crowd as everyone flew into a frenzy.
Juleka blinked as everything slowed down in her blurred world. She squinted as fuzzy figures closed in around her. She raised a brow before she toppled over and passed out. The darkness around her moved and morphed into Sass. Everyone froze as they stared at him.
Sass snorted and walked across the floor to Felix and Luka. Everyone watched as Sass restored life to the pair. They took deep breaths as they looked around frantically. Sass hummed and turned away when Felix yowled.
“Sass, I’m placing your heir under arrest for this transgression. She fucking killed us!” Felix roared.
“Really? I don’t see any bodies, cat.”
“Don’t get fucking cheeky with me. She killed us. We’d be dead if you didn’t come to fix her mistake! She is a menace and needs to be contained. And you better believe the Elders will hear about this!”
“What? No! No, we got this. Please, Felix, we have this!” Marc begged.
“Fuck you, Marc. I’m not letting this one slide. You can ignore the facts all you want, but she is a danger.”
“She’s not a danger! She just needs help!” Luka countered.
“And who’s going to give her that help? You? Feel free to try again. I think I would like to read your obituary.”
“I’ll help!” Marinette and Zoe yelled.
Felix looked at Marinette and Zoe. “Marinette, with all due respect, you are to not go near that monster. Zoe, I have no issue with throwing you to the beast. If you think you can tame it, by all means, but it is your death.”
Zoe glared at Felix.
“Aw, Kitten, can I please help? I know I could,” Marinette cooed.
“No, Bug. Even with your pet turtle, I don’t want you to get hurt. I couldn’t bear the thought.”
“This is cute and all, but your endeavors will all be for naught,” Sass declared.
Silence fell over everyone as they turned to Sass. They watched him scoop up Juleka’s unconscious naga body.
“You all have lived comfy lives in this realm, blind to everything. You have long since grown complacent with these frivolous lives. You all have forgotten what your concepts have truly meant and what burden that comes with. All except for one,” Sass announced.
“That doesn’t-!” Felix started.
“Silence!” Sass bellowed.
Silence.
Sass turned and glared at Felix. “Tell your pitiful Elders. Run crying to them like the worthless, trained housecat that you are. Fight against Juleka. Fight against me all you wish, but I promise you one thing. I will not lose Juleka as my heir. Be ready, kitten. The viper will strike back.”
“Challenge accepted, worm,” Felix hissed.
Sass tsked. “May the bluebells toll your death and the ground embrace you when you fall. It will be the last embrace you feel before the cold grip of death.”
“Pretty words mean nothing, and that’s all it ever is from you worms.”
Sass snorted. He raised a hand and snapped his fingers. A shock passed through Felix followed by excruciating pain. Felix’s eyes widened as he felt the scars all along his body open. Felix gasped as crimson poured over his eyes and he fell into a pool of his blood.
“No snake is to heal his wounds. If I find out a snake or cow healed him, I will reopen the wounds, and punish the snake responsible and have Terra take care of the cow,” Sass warned.
“You fucking asshole!” Felix roared.
Sass looked back with a smile. “Not so pretty words are they now, kitten?”
“This means war.”
“Awe, how cute. The little kitten thinks it’s tough while mewing on the ground, curled up after a little injury. Sure, whatever makes you feel better, little Colt.”
Felix roared as Sass took Juleka and teleported away.

Chapter Text

Sass stepped off the teleportation pad in the greenhouse. He carried Juleka through the gardens to a new room in the back nestled in a forest glade. He set her down on the bed and covered her as he heard footsteps behind him. He stood as Plagg and Tikki stood in the doorway with Gimmi beside them.
“Well, well, been a while, Sass. You know, it does fall on the kwami to punish their own heirs, not for the other kwamis to punish them,” Plagg mewed.
“That’s rich, coming from you. There’s only one instance of you punishing your heirs when there were countless other times you should have,” Sass hissed.
“Really? I didn’t think they did anything wrong.”
“Of course, you didn’t. However, if you intend to tell me to heal your heir, I won’t.”
“Oh, that? Please, I know better. You and Longg are the most stubborn of all of us. There is no convincing either of you once your mind is set.”
“Then why are you all here?”
Gimmi stepped forward. “Sass, we’re no fools. You’re plotting something. What is your aim?”
“You should know better than anyone, Gimmi,” Sass hissed.
“Do you truly intend to bring back the court to what it was?”
Sass laughed. “I don’t have such power, but I will remind them. I will remind them all how far they’ve fallen. You saw tonight. You saw them. They are the embodiments of us! Where everyone sees a monster, we see ourselves. We see what we lost. But also what we could have again. Is it wrong that I want more of that? Is it wrong that I don’t want Juleka to be the last? Is it wrong that I’m sick of the waves of Elders futile efforts to fix the court? No one is going to fix it except ourselves!”
“I agree,” Gimmi said.
“You… what?”
“Yeah! Even the Highborns amongst mine are dwindling fast. Marinette is one of a few Highborn I have left. I’m scared to lose them and be stuck with those Midborns, and worst, the Lowborns. I want my connection with my clan. I want my own shifter too!” Tikki complained.
“As would I,” Plagg added.
“I would like to not see my clan’s blessing vanish. You know once mine is gone, you all will lose yours too,” Gimmi warned.
Sass tensed up. “What do you propose then?”
“We are gathering tonight while the heirs are disoriented from Juleka’s outburst. We aim to build a case as a plea to Velze. We’re not ready to move on, so we must take action. However, we have dangerous aims standing against Father. Tikki and Plagg stand with me, but I need another. I need someone like you, Sass. I need a kwami with a shifter heir.”
“There’s Ziggy,” Sass countered.
“Do you honestly think I would trust Ziggy with this type of thing?” Gimmi shot back.
Sass grimaced but didn’t answer.
“I didn’t think so. Listen, I know I ask a lot, but this cannot continue this way. You and Juleka made us aware at the Solstice. You made Velze aware too. Please, we need your help in making our case.”
“I… I don’t know.”
“Then let me help you. If we sit aside forever, all the blessings will break, and these mortals will become mundane. Once they are mundane again, we move on. As Velze would decree, we would, but many are not ready to move on. They want to stay with these mortals longer. We can prolong our stay, but we need you. Please, will you help?”
Sass sighed. “You know this is a fool’s endeavor doomed to fail, right?”
“Maybe, but so long as there is one fool left to fight, no cause is doomed. We are those fools. Will you join us?”
Gimmi held out a hand for Sass. Sass looked at it, sighed, and took it.
“Thank you,” Gimmi said.
“What’s the plan?”
“We build our case, then we’ll converge at moon high to have our council with Father.”
“That doesn’t give us much time.”
“Then we better get started.”

~~

Luka sat at the edge of the council room while the other heirs bickered and fought over what to do about Juleka. Annoyance and frustration tore through him as he listened to their muddled declarations that Juleka was dangerous and a problem to be dealt with. He attempted to block them out and focus on other things in the room.
Luka looked around and eyed Felix and Marinette. Felix had passed out from blood loss, but his wounds clotted soon after. Marinette, Socqueline, and Bridgette worked on bandaging Felix to keep the wounds from reopening. Aside from them, he eyed Marc sitting at the table with his brows knotted and eyes on the table, deep in thought.
Luka moved to speak with Marc when a hand pulled him back. He turned to see Ziggy. Her hazel eyes a deep, crimson red. He opened his mouth, but she pressed her finger against his lips.
“Luka, calm down. You’re making things worse for yourself. Let us at least get you some food,” Ziggy said.
“What are you talking about?” Luka demanded.
“Right. Remember earlier when food didn’t fill you up?”
“I mean, I guess. I assumed it just hit later after I had, er, spent the afternoon with Adrienne.”
“Oh, sweet summer child, no. That apple had nothing to do with it. Especially considering Adrienne is likely still back at her place, passed the fuck out after an exhausting, but blissful afternoon.”
Luka blushed and looked away.
“That’s what I thought. Luka, honey, you don’t feed like normal heirs. You’re a goat shifter, so your needs are… different.”
“Different how?”
“Well, let’s just say that you don’t need food or sleep anymore. The way you get your energy is through positive, nourishing vibes. You know, like the ones at a party or when you’re with Adrienne. You’re happy then, right? Surrounded by positive energy?”
“It felt like that, and it was nice.”
“And when Juleka crashed the party?”
Luka hesitated. “It felt… draining being around her. I felt the hunger clawing at me again.”
“As you would. See, those negative energies will exhaust you and starve you. It’s the same if you give off bad energy yourself.”
“Really? So, what? Am I supposed to be happy all the time?”
“Well, no, but just don’t let your negative emotions get too extreme like Juleka does. So long as you continue to manage your emotions in a healthy way, you won’t starve yourself. Speaking of bad energy, we should do something, shouldn’t we?”
“What do you mean?”
Ziggy held up a finger as she approached the council table. “Hey! Everyone! C’mon, let’s lighten up the mood, yeah?”
“Ziggy, with all due respect, now is not the time for a party. We need to figure out what to do about that beast,” Wayhem declared.
“She’s not a beast, Wayhem. She’s a shifter. The first anyone has been in a thousand years. We need to be approaching her more cautiously,” Max protested.
“Yeah! You all should have seen her poor soul. It’s broken. Being intoxicated didn’t help her mental state either and you all want to punish her. We should be helping her, not punishing her!” Ondine added.
“Her emotions ran wild. You could tell she was running purely on them,” Alya said.
“Her emotions or her anger?” Aurore challenged.
“Can’t you see the anger is a mask? She’s hurting, but of course you wouldn’t understand that now, would you?” Alya shot back.
“I get it! Juleka needs help, but you’ll have two unstable shifters to deal with if you all keep this up,” Ziggy warned.
“Oh, great! What’s wrong with the man whore?” Wayhem demanded.
“Deep throat a cactus, Wayhem. Anyway, Luka doesn’t sustain himself like you all anymore. To survive, he needs to feed off positive energy.”
Marc raised a brow. “What kind of positive energy are we talking about?”
“Oh, just positive energy, really. I’ve found that parties are typically the best since everyone is usually indulging in sins like gluttony, lust, and sloth that everything is nice and laid back. It’s once the negative energy crops up that it drains him and makes him hungry. Like the whole fight earlier.”
“And that whole incident has left him drained?” Max asked while taking notes.
“Oh, yes. He was completely full before the party, but that whole spat completely starved him,” Ziggy answered.
“Uh, Ziggy? I don’t-,” Luka started.
“How could you tell he was full?” Max interrupted.
“His eyes. If they’re bright and lively, he’s full. However, if they darken, he’s getting hungry. And trust me, you don’t want a goat shifter’s eyes to turn black. Oh boy!” Ziggy added.
“Fascinating. Luka, what were you doing earlier that worked so effectively to fill you?” Max questioned.
“I, er, was with Adrienne,” Luka admitted.
“Just being with Adrienne was enough? Interesting.”
“Oh, Luka, you modest boy. I see how you are. The kiss and don’t tell type,” Ziggy blurted.
“Ziggy,” Luka hissed.
“What? You’re revelry, baby! Take pride in the fact you rode the bitch hard and true for hours.”
Luka blushed while Wayhem snorted.
“Please. You don’t honestly expect us to believe that, do you?”
“Believe what you will, but there’s a reason that even Jagged had people coming back for seconds and more.”
Ziggy opened her mouth to continue, but she stopped. Her eyes shifted from deep red to dark blue. Luka pursed his lips as a wave of longing and temptation crashed into him. He paled as he painfully recognized the carnal desire that followed it.
Aurore stepped up leaned over, propping herself up with her arm. “You know, I never really hated you.”
Luka cringed and forced a smile as he stepped back. “Right, well, that’s nice to know, but-.”
“Uh, Luka?” Zoe asked sheepishly.
Luka dropped the smile and stared down at Zoe.
“We, uh, we could hang out, if you’d like. No pressure, but-,” Zoe attempted.
Chloe walked up and pushed Zoe away. “Out of here, half-pint.”
“No fair, Chloe! You always said-!” Zoe started.
Chloe wrapped her arms around Luka. “Don’t mind her. She’s just a little jealous is all. Who wouldn’t be when you could have someone as bountiful as me.”
“Right, right. Uh, very flattering, but I-,” Luka started.
Kim grabbed Luka’s horns and pulled him away from Chloe. Luka bleated in shock as Kim manhandled him into a headlock. Ondine lightly slapped Kim’s chest, then smiled at Luka.
“You know, you’re always welcome in the swan district. We always have plenty of good vibes, and eats, too. Don’t forget the eats. Absolutely divine, if you want to partake, of course,” Ondine said.
Kim grinned as he messed with Luka’s horns. “I would love to test how good these are as handlebars.”
Luka flushed as he squirmed uneasily. He opened his mouth when he was teleported away next to Alix. She grinned and put an arm around him.
“Say, Luka. From one party bitch to another, we’re going to get real familiar with each other’s bodies, so how about we start now?” Alix offered.
Luka’s blush deepened, his eyes widened, and he pursed his lips. Alix opened her mouth to speak again when she was pushed aside by Alya and Fei Wu. Luka opened his mouth as Alya pressed her face against his, Fei leaned against his left side, and Mylene took his arm and wrapped it around her.
“Ignore the bear cub, sweetness. You’ve better options than a filthy bear. What you need is a strong woman that knows no fear,” Fei Wu propositioned.
“Oy! The fuck did you say about me, bitch!” Alix roared.
“Don’t start fights you can’t finish, cub,” Fei Wu warned.
“Oh yeah? Watch me! Bring it bitch!”
Alix tackled Fei Wu as they rolled around on the floor. Luka grimaced at the pair when Alya moved where Fei Wu stood.
“Such barbarians, aren’t they? I think you’d benefit more from the company of someone far more in tune and in control of their emotions,” Alya suggested.
“But just enough wild to send you soaring into the skies,” Mylene added.
“Alright, enough!” Luka yelled.
Mylene and Alya jumped back as Luka turned to face everyone.
“What makes any of you think I’m going to sleep with any of you?” Luka demanded.
“Oh, what’s the matter, fuckboy? Too scared to embrace your concept just as your whore father did? Or are you afraid that all of Ziggy’s praise is nothing but lies and you’re just a disappointment of a lover and goat just as you were as a snake?” Wayhem challenged.
Luka’s nostrils flared. “Fuck you, Wayhem. Fuck all of you! I’m not Jagged. I’m not just going to abandon how you all treated me in the past. Me and Adrienne alike. Now you sit here, discussing my fucking sister and treating her like she’s not even human. What makes you think I’d want any of you?”
Alix stopped wrestling Fei Wu and teleported onto the table. “Oy! The fuck you mean all of us? News flash, goat boy, not all of us cared about you and Adrienne. Some of us don’t even care about your sexy sister. Well, we do, but not in the ways you think. Don’t lump us all in the same pile, but don’t mistake this as being all about you either!”
Marc moved around the table to Luka. “Alix is right. I’m not touching on the subject of your relationship with Adrienne. It’s not my place. However, Juleka did overstep a line. She needs help, a lot of help. I don’t think punishing her is the right call, but we need-.”
“Oh, we’re not punishing her after she killed both Luka and Felix?” Wayhem challenged.
“What? No, of course not! We need-!” Marc attempted.
“Oh, I see what’s going on. You think you finally have a chance at indulging your sick fantasies, don’t you, Marc? What better than the newest fuckboy.”
“What? No. No! This has nothing to do about Luka. You all can fight over him, but don’t drag me into this. I’m just-!”
“Just shooting your shot like everyone else here? Yeah, we can tell. Don’t think you’re fooling anyone here, Marc. We all know better. You’ve wanted nothing more than to fulfill your sick perversions. At least the rest of us have the decency to still like the opposite sex. What’s your excuse?”
Marc’s jaw dropped as he stared out at everyone. He fought for words as tears burned his eyes. Rage tore through Luka at Wayhem’s words. He summoned his weapon, a pitchfork, and threw it at Wayhem. Wayhem screamed out as the pitchfork impaled his right shoulder. He snorted, scooped up Marc, and headed out.
“U-uhm, Luka? Where are we going? Are we-?”
“No. I’m taking you back to the Cicada District. I think we’ve both had enough for tonight.”
“R-right. Um, could we though?”
“Pardon?”
Marc paled. “I mean, obviously we don’t have to if you don’t want to. I just… I mean… I wouldn’t mind. I would like to… you know, experience that at least once.”
“Marc?”
“I… I know it’s silly. Sitting here in your arms begging to be, you know. I just… I get curious, but also envious. I see the lot of the court members happily and openly be with people they love or just find attractive. I’ve tried to reach out. I’ve tried to be with other men, but whenever I try to make that first move, I feel all this weight fall on me. I’m one of the last cicadas with powers. I am one of the last with Gimmi’s blessing. I should be with a woman, but I… I.”
Marc sighed as he trailed off. He laid his head on Luka’s shoulder and stared out.
“I need to continue my bloodline. I need to offer my clan an heir with powers, but I can’t bring myself to do it. I can’t be with a woman. I can only find comfort with men. And it sucks. I just… I want to be able to know what it’s like, even if just once. Oh, who am I kidding, I know better. It would only ever be once with how much they belittle me for it. I just wish I knew what was wrong with me.”
“Nothing is wrong with you, Marc. It’s Wayhem and people like him that are the problem. You’re allowed to love who you want.”
“Easy for you to say, Luka. No offense, but you’re a goat. You’re at the very bottom. It’s not… it’s not like me.”
“You’re right, it’s not, but that doesn’t change the truth of it. You should be allowed to love who you want. Damn what everyone else thinks.”
“If only.”
Luka frowned, then smiled. “I have an idea. Let’s enjoy the night away from everyone. Perhaps things could lead back to your place later. How’s that sound.”
Marc’s face turned bright red. “That’s more than perfect. Wonderful. Amazing. No complaints. Nope. None at all.”
“Good. Let’s enjoy the night, just you and I.”

~~

Luka stepped off the teleportation pad to the greenhouse. He curled his lip at the humidity even in the early morning sun. He took a step when his path was blocked by Sass.
“Why are you here?” Sass demanded.
“I came to speak with Juleka,” Luka said.
Sass looked Luka up and down. “Are you sure you should be talking to her in your condition? You look ravenous. Didn’t find a good meal last night?”
“I… no.”
Sass hummed. “Shame. From what I hear from Longg and Gimmi, Marc has never been happier.”
“Yeah, well, his guilt and shame runs deep thanks to the court. It made things… less than ideal.”
“Such is life. Now go.”
“No. I’m not leaving until I speak with Juleka.”
“Do you honestly think it’s a good idea to speak with her when she’s going to have a hangover from hell and you’re starved?”
“You can medicate her hangover, can’t you?”
“Perhaps, but that doesn’t help that you’re starved.”
“Well, no, but after last night, things aren’t exactly good. And I don’t want to completely drain Adrienne especially since she doesn’t even know yet. So, what can I even fucking do?”
“I’m available,” Mylene said.
Luka jumped back as Mylene landed between him and Sass.
“Morning, Mylene,” Sass muttered.
“Morning, Sass. So, what do you say, Luka? I know a nice nearby creek with a lovely deep hole. Oh, and the lovely babbles of it with all the little dragonlings. And we don’t have to worry about being interrupted or negative energy. It’d just be you and me. What do you say?”
Luka scratched the back of his head as he considered. “I suppose it could be refreshing to wash in, uh, the creek water. Uh, lead the way?”
Mylene grinned and led Luka away. Sass watched the pair vanish before he turned around.
“You walk with death, Juleka.”
A moment passed before Juleka stepped out into the archway with her head down.
“Morning, Juleka.”
Silence.
Sass furrowed his brows. He approached Juleka and lifted her chin. His eyes widened as he saw her red puffy eyes and tear and makeup-stained face.
“Juleka?” Sass asked.
“I… I thought she liked me. I… I thought we could… we could be more. Why does everyone like Luka more than me? Why does no one love me?”
“Juleka, easy. It’s not-.”
Juleka broke down into sobbing fits. Sass watched her run off and disappear. He sighed, looked away, then back in the direction she ran off in.
“This will be a long day.”

Chapter Text

Sass stood with Gimmi in the Unseen. They watched the Elders gather in the council room. Felix had informed Colt, the Black Cat Elder, of what transpired at the party. The Elders asked for the kwamis to be present to hear their counsel, but the Elders seldom took it. If the Elders would have it their way, something would be done. However, the kwamis had their own plans.
“I call to order this meeting of Elders!” Colt yowled.
Sass narrowed his glare at the Elders that had gathered with Colt at the head. He ignored the rest of Colt’s rambling before Colt called on the kwamis. Gimmi nudged his arm.
“Are you ready?” Gimmi asked.
“Not particularly.”
“Where’s all that confidence gone, Sass?”
“Bite me, Gimmi.”
“I’ll have Longg take care of that. Come along.”
Gimmi led the kwamis out of the Unseen as they gathered around the council table. Colt opened his mouth when Gimmi held up her hand.
“Thank you, Colt, for the stirring introductions, but we have something to announce.”
“Will all due respect, Gimmi, we must settle the matter of this shifter girl. If she went as far as to kill two people, she must be taken care of. We cannot allow a murderer in our midst.”
“Perhaps if your son wasn’t foolishly playing the hero, the death counter would have been at one. Even then, Sass stepped in and reversed the damage. It did not help matters that Felix had instigated an inebriated shifter. Perhaps you should have spent as much time on his intelligence as you did his gains,” Gimmi admonished.
“Now, Felix is smarter than you give him credit for,” Colt countered.
“I suppose you’re right. He’s at least smarter than you.”
Colt took a deep breath as he faked a laugh. “Oh, Gimmi, ever the comedian. Well, oh Kwami of Reality, what would you do?”
Gimmi hummed. “An interesting question. I would say, brothers, sisters, to me.”
Colt’s eyes widened as the kwamis turned into balls of light and merged with Gimmi. Her body morphed into Velze. He floated to the center of the table and stared down at Colt.
Colt bowed. “Almighty, Velze. We were not expecting your council today. To what do we owe this honor?”
“My youngest told you, Colt. She had an announcement, but you refused to listen to her. Since when did any of you have dominion over my children?” Velze challenged.
Colt pursed his lips. “Ah, well, a… a simple misunderstanding. What would this announcement be, Velze?”
“My children are unhappy with the present state of the court. A state that they had grown complacent with while living with everyone. That was until one of their brothers opened their eyes.”
“Velze, if this is about the snake shifter, then I assure you we’re going to take care of her.”
“And how will you take care of her?”
Colt hesitated. “Well, she will be put under arrest and tried by us here. From there, she’ll receive punishment. Though, according to your law, if any of us drew blood, it warranted death. You yourself did not wish to see us fighting after all. This girl did draw blood. Shifter or no, she cannot escape your divine law. And we must abide by the rules. What are we if we just throw away the laws?”
Velze looked down. “Rules that are made, can be unmade. I see what you mean now.”
“Velze?”
“My children had reached out to me. They confronted me about how unhappy they were with the state of things. How they missed things from the old days. They yearn for connections again. They yearn for more. And you have all failed them.”
“What? How have we failed? We’ve done everything as you said. We’ve followed your rule and your code. How is it our fault?” Colt challenged.
“You promised. You and every Elder before you all. You all promised you would return the court to form. You all promised you would bring back those connections and the Highborns with them. But you all failed.”
“Well, what did you want of us? How are we supposed to bring more Highborns when what they are is set at birth? It’s not like they have a chance to become more without divine intervention on your part.”
Velze looked away again. “Just as you said as well. Have I truly been so unfair? I’m so sorry.”
“Velze?”
Velze looked back at Colt. “Perhaps it is time. Time for something new.”
“What kind of new?”
“My children would put the blame at your feet for the lack of form in the court. For failing to live up to the promises made by you and all other Elders before you. But that is unfair to you all. You did what you could, have you not? You pushed the heirs to embody their concepts, pushed them to be close to their kwamis, btu what more can be done if they are not given the opportunity to grow?”
“What are you suggesting?”
“It’s time for a new age to begin.”
“What are you-?”
Velze turned away from Colt. His black eyes faded to white and burned bright. His mind splintered as he connected with each of the heirs.
“Young heirs, I summon you all to the council room immediately. You have ten minutes to present yourselves before I forcibly bring you here. Timer starts now.”
Velze cut his connection with the heirs and watched the door. Juleka was the first of the heirs to show up. His eyes widened seeing the tear and makeup-stained face. Pity and sorrow struck him as his mane and tail shifted between shades of dark blue. He flew down and into her arms. She collapsed as she held him tightly. He nuzzled her and purred while he kept an eye on the door.
Velze watched the rest of the heirs pour into the room. They shared bewildered glances as they gawked at him in Juleka’s arms. He waited until everyone had arrived before he phased out of her arms. She turned and reached out to him when she saw Luka and Mylene. She sneered and looked away as more tears fell. He saw and moved so his tail obstructed her view of the others.
Marc stepped out of the crowd and knelt. “Velze, you honor us. What news do you have for us.”
“Take notes, Colt. This is how you show respect.”
Colt flinched and forced a nod.
“Rise, young cicada, and listen well, all of you. Since the young snake arrived in our court, everything had been turned upside down. Unrest and chaos had been sowed and sprouted across the court. I know for some it is unnerving, that you may be uncomfortable, but a solution has been discovered.”
Marc rose. “What is your will, Velze?”
Velze swung his arms out as small vials appeared before each heir. They each looked at the vial in front of them, then at Velze.
“Velze, what are these?” Marc asked.
“My divine will. From here on, you and each generation moving forward will have a luxury I have denied you all: growth. I failed to remember that it is your place to grow and invent who you are. It was in this blinded failure I tasked your Elders to return the court to form without hope of any real change. So, change has been presented. Embrace my will and embrace your concepts. Become more for yourselves and the generations to come.”
Marc’s eyes widened. “Wait. Are you saying, if we drink these, we have a chance to rise? We have the chance the become Midborns and even Highborns?”
“And more beyond that. You have a chance to become Shifters as Juleka and the other boy.”
Gasps tore through the heirs as they buzzed with excitement.
“But be warned. This is not an easy path. If you wish to rise, to become more, you must fully embrace your concepts. You must embody all that it is and not have a shred of hesitation or doubt in your heart. Should there be even a sliver of it, you will not rise further than what you are now. And if you wish to become a Shifter, it will mean abandoning that which makes you human.”
Juleka sniffled. “Is that why I’m such a monster? Is it because I’m not even human?”
Velze turned and hovered in front of Juleka. “Far from. You are a goddess among men. The first in a long time. And it is because of you that many more may be ushered in.”
“Yeah, right. What’s so special about me that’s worth all this?”
“You are life itself personified in all its mysterious glory. All rise and bow before you as you usher in new, guide it through the cycles, and to its peaceful end. Everything starts and ends with you. You are life. Never forget that. Because I won’t.”
Juleka furrowed her brow as Sass’s voice came through Velze. She looked up as Sass separated from Velze. Her eyes widened as he knelt and hugged her.
“Never let these fools knock you down. When you walk, you have every right to hold it high. You are a true goddess amongst a sea of mundane. You are what they all wish they could be, and never truly will because none of them have the guts to take the plunge. None of them have the will to become what you are. You are no monster. You are a god. As you should be. As is your right by birth. Never forget that.”
A tear fell from Juleka’s eyes as she sighed. She relaxed against Sass and hugged him. He scooped her up and pushed past the other heirs.
“Wait! Where are you going?” Velze yelled out in fragmented voices.
“With all due respect, Father, but I’ve had my fill of people for the day. That and I have a broken heart to mend.”
“Broken heart? Who broke your heart, Juleka?” Mylene asked.
Juleka flinched and buried her face in Sass’s shoulder.
“Juleka?”
Juleka glanced up and flipped off Mylene. Mylene’s jaw dropped as she furrowed her brows.
“You. You’re the one that broke her heart,” Ondine said.
“Wait, me? Juleka, what did I do? Did I say something?”
Juleka balled her hands into fists and gritted her teeth. “You fucked my brother down by the fucking creek.”
“I… yeah? I don’t understand what the issue is. I wanted to toss that ass like a salad, so I did,” Mylene remarked.
“I mean, I can’t blame her,” Marc remarked.
“Aww, you slept with those two and didn’t invite me? Rude!” Adrienne scolded.
“You were resting from the, uh, prior afternoon and evening,” Luka admitted.
Adrienne smirked and fanned herself. “Oh, yeah. I see what the adults always meant by that ‘revelry loving.’”
Luka blushed while the other court members stared at Luka.
“Eww, gross. Sass, let’s get out of here,” Juleka whimpered.
Sass took a step when there was a bright light and a chorus of yelps. He flinched as he turned around to see a mix of kwamis and humans thrown around the floor. He looked towards the table where smoke rose from it. He jumped back as a clawed hand hooked onto the table and Longg pulled herself up.
“What have we fucking told you about that shit, fucking snake?” Longg roared.
“Time to go!” Sass yelled.
Longg roared and lunged as Sass ducked and weaved between Longg’s attacks. Everyone watched until disappeared into the main terminal.
“So, uh, what now?” Mylene asked.
“I guess we drink these?” Marc suggested.
Everyone nodded and drank their vials. A moment of nothing passed before light enveloped Mylene. It shifted between every color before it faded away. She looked herself over but didn’t appear any different. She opened her mouth to speak but was cut off by an ear-piercing scream from Adrienne.
“Adrienne!” Luka screeched.
Luka took Adrienne into his arms as she took shallow, uneven breaths.
“It hurts! Everything hurts!”
Luka’s eyes widened. “Deep breaths, Adrienne. Deep breaths. It’ll be over soon.”
Adrienne gripped Luka as she screeched again before her body transformed into a human peacock hybrid. He held her close while Duusu jumped up and celebrated.
“Ha! In all your faces! I knew all the years of pampering, etiquette, everything would pay off! You all doubted me. You all tried to discourage me. Well, how do you like that all now? I’m looking at you Gabriel!”
Gabriel tsked and looked away.
Duusu laughed as he danced over to Adrienne and Luka. “Come! We celebrate. Just the three of us. Fuck you all! Beauty conquers all! Ha! Oh, that feels good. Come now, Luka. And be careful with the merchandise. She’s far more valuable than you.”
Luka sighed as he scooped Adrienne up into his arms and followed Duusu out. Duusu chirped to himself while Luka hung back.
“Hey, are you doing alright?” Luka asked.
Adrienne gave a weak nod. “That was… painful. Was it like that for you too?”
“It was. Not exactly an experience I want to feel again. Thankfully, that’s been the only time.”
Adrienne sighed. “Good. Good.”
“Rest easy. You’re in good hands.”
Adrienne smiled and nuzzled up to Luka. “I know. I always am when I’m with you.
Luka smiled and kissed Adrienne. “Love you, fancy feathers.”
“And I love you, handlebars.”
Luka snorted and laughed. “Alright, rest now.”
“Then later can it be just us?”
“If Duusu will allow it. He may just throw an impromptu parade to show you off.”
Duusu paused and looked back. “You’re damn right I will be.”
Adrienne groaned. “Duusu, why?”
“Because you are a goddess now too and your subjects deserve to see what true beauty is. It is your right by birth and all that nonsense Sass was spouting. Now, come, pampering awaits!”