[ME] [SE] Once upon a time

He studied the Knight's face thoughtfully for a moment and then gave a slow nod. "I will," he promised. "I, too, only found shadows when I looked for an outside threat. I do not think they are mine." Though it was troubling to hear that the story was diverging from what Maea knew. What would happen to the book if their lines and actions did not fit the original narrative? It was not a question he particularly wanted to test, but the choice might not be in their hands for much longer.

He was pulled from his thoughts by the compliment and he tilted his head to the side in acknowledgment. "Mmh. Fairy magic is a useful thing." As Abandoned magic must be as well, so much broader than that which the gods allowed the Mer. The power in it was... not without temptation. Especially when dealing with the Void.

Emerald eyes twinkled with light as he continued. "But it has not taught me how to dance." At least, he did not think it had. Perhaps the Dark Fairy knew how, and would fall into the steps of the graceful pavane currently taking place in the middle of the ballroom. "Have you seen the princess?" When trouble struck it seemed likely that it would center on their young protagonist. The tale revolved around her, after all. She would be at the heart of the coming climax.