Fair Maiden - Alcina x Fem Reader

59: The Truth

As you and Alcina exit the castle, a brisk breeze hits your skin. The warm summer afternoons have come and gone, gradually replaced with the chill of approaching fall. Green leaves have began to change to warm hues of red, yellow, orange and brown. The grass is no longer lively, blades withering away as the cold steals their vibrant life.

Alcina helps you down the staircase. Your legs still lack strength, wobbling beneath you at each step. Your body is exhausted from letting out heavy sobs. Although you are in no mood for a stroll, you wanted to hear what Alcina had to say. As you reach the bottom of the steps, Alcina leads you to a small worn path that wraps around the castle grounds. For quite some time, you walk in silence. Despite your conflicting emotions, there's a part of you that's glad she's here. No matter how angry, hurt or confused you feel, Alcina makes you feel safe. You watch your steps, listening to the light crunch that comes from beneath them. Alcina takes a deep breath, then finally breaks the silence.

"Long ago, I was the monster you witnessed today." Alcina begins. "I lived a dreadful life full of misery and unnecessary hatred. Then, I found someone who showed me that this life doesn't have to be lived in such a way. I found you. My sweet fair maiden. My beloved little bird."

"My lady, I don't understand." You quietly exclaim.

"You will." Alcina assures you before she continues. "Your gentle soul kept the monster at bay. You brought so much happiness and joy into a world I thought only contained sorrow and pain. However, that content comfort only lasted so long."

"What happened?" You ask.

Alcina remains quiet for a moment, seemingly contemplating her next words.

"I made you a promise that I couldn't keep, and you paid the price." Her voice is hushed, holding a heavy regret to her words.

"What was your promise?" You ask her.

"I promised to protect you. Keep you safe." She utters, glancing off into the distance. "Unfortunately, I wasn't able to keep my word."

"Mother Miranda took me from you." You mumble, realizing that what Mary had told you could very well be true.

At your words, Alcina stops in her tracks. As she turns to face you, her golden eyes meet yours with confusion.

"Who told you that?" She asks.

"Mary." You tell her. "She told me Mother Miranda had taken something very dear to you."

"Very dear indeed." Alcina sighs, lifting her hand to your cheek.

"But Mother Miranda..." Your words trail off, unable to keep up with your thoughts.

Alcina closes her eyes for a moment, gathering her thoughts. Again, she takes a deep breath before she speaks. Her eyes open, meeting your anxious and confused gaze.

"Y/N, Mother Miranda hasn't been entirely truthful with you." She says, softly.

"I'm not sure anyone has." You utter, pulling your face from Alcina's grasp.

"Just because we've been vague, doesn't mean our words haven't held truth." Alcina exclaims. "We've only meant to spare you of more confusion."

"Well, I think it's time you offer clarification instead of excuses." You coldly remark.

"Do you even trust me?" Alcina quietly asks.

"I'm not sure I should, but my heart seems to be getting in the way." You tell her, eyes glancing to the ground.

"You can trust me, Y/N." Alcina softly utters.

"Prove it." Your eyes lift back to hers. "Tell me the truth. What really happened to me?"