To Love A Nutcracker

Chapter 4

At twelve years old, he stood out in a striking red jacket adorned with gold trim, complemented by a pair of gleaming black boots and matching trousers. This outfit was far from his usual attire; he typically dressed modestly, with his warm smile being the most remarkable aspect of his appearance. However, his aunt had insisted he look his absolute best for the upcoming party at the castle—a grand affair filled with royals and nobles.

The kingdom and its castle were truly breathtaking, a sight so magnificent that it seemed almost beyond belief, even to those who beheld it with their own eyes. This was the enchanting Kingdom of Sweets. Lush meadows stretched out, adorned with sugar, almonds, and raisins, while peppermint trees flourished, their branches heavy with orange blossoms and sugar plums. Gingerbread houses, elegantly decorated with coconut frosting, dotted the landscape, and vibrant roses of cherry and daffodils made of lemon drops added splashes of color to the scene.

Yet, curiously, the boy found himself captivated not by the sugary delights that surrounded him, but by the kingdom's imaginative design and intricate structure. Unlike most children, he did not feel an immediate urge to indulge in the sweet treats; instead, he marveled at the creativity that brought this whimsical realm to life.

What captivated him the most were the exquisite clocks and intricate mechanical dolls scattered throughout the castle. Much like Husk, the boy had a natural affinity for gears and mechanics. He delighted in disassembling these creations to uncover their inner workings. He was a remarkably clever child, often more insightful than many adults realized. Fortunately, his uncle and aunt recognized his potential and took great pride in his abilities.

"Alastor!" The magician called out, his voice echoing through the castle. "Alastor, where are you? We go on in an hour! We need to get ready!"

"Coming, Uncle!" Alastor replied, his voice filled with excitement.

His nephew was engrossed in one of the castle's many Grandfather Clocks, carefully opening it up and examining the intricate mechanisms inside with wide-eyed fascination. It was amusing, really—he had completely lost track of time while studying a clock.

"Now, do you remember how the routine goes?" The magician asked, a hint of urgency in his tone.

"Yes, Uncle." Alastor assured him.

"Good. We need to give this performance everything we've got. We're performing for the king and his daughter, and if they enjoy our act, we could become famous."

"I thought we were already famous." Alastor said, puzzled.

"Not quite. Your aunt is the famous one. I, on the other hand, would love to carve out my own fame. Though I must admit, there are certainly perks to being married to a renowned actress—especially in the bedroom." He added with a playful chuckle.

"Oh, Uncle!" Alastor exclaimed, rolling his eyes.

"Your time will come, boy. Your aunt is already looking into finding you a betrothed."

"A be-what?"

"A betrothed."

"What's that?"

"A girl you're going to marry someday."

"What?!"

"Yeah, I know. I told her she was crazy and that you could find your own wife when the time is right. But she's worried you might turn into one of those... what did she call them? Cockney boys, running around with streetwalkers." He chuckled. "Now that would surely send your aunt to an early grave—hooking up with a streetwalker!"

"I don't like girls, Uncle. At least, not in that way."

"You know, I felt the same way when I was your age. Of course, that might have been because I was an ugly porker back then, not nearly as handsome as you. Thank goodness you inherited your looks from your gorgeous aunt. Anyway, very few boys your age take an interest in girls. Just give it time."