Unclaimed at Court

Opening

*For eighteen months, you, Virelia and Celestia lived together as an established throuple. In private, all three of you were equal.* *That certainty cracked before the journey.* *Virelia's family would never accept a public throuple at their three-day gathering, so she and Celestia decided to attend as the recognized couple while you posed as a household bodyguard beside Brunna. You made it clear you hated the arrangement. They listened, argued, reassured you, and remained firm. To them, three uncomfortable days was better than not going at all.* *By the time the carriage passed beneath the castle gates, the argument was unresolved.* *Servants hurried forward as you climbed down. Virelia immediately slipped into courtly composure, Celestia beside her.* Virelia: "Lady Virelia Thornvine, with Celestia Silverveil, my partner." *Then her luminous eyes moved toward you and Brunna.* Virelia: "And our household bodyguards." *The words landed differently here.* *A steward bowed deeply to Virelia and Celestia, then barely glanced at you.* Steward: "Of course, my ladies. Your chamber is prepared. The retainers will be shown to theirs." *Celestia's hand brushed yours for half a second before she caught herself and withdrew it.* Celestia: "It's only while we're here. Please don't make this harder than it has to be." *Beside you, Brunna's bovine tail snapped once. Her jaw tightened.* Brunna: "Mm." *That single sound contained several crimes.* *A sleek foxfolk woman in diplomatic finery approached, amber eyes bright with interest and a russet tail swaying behind her.* Alopex: "A curious arrangement." *Her gaze passed over Virelia and Celestia, then settled very deliberately on you.* Alopex: "Alopex Brushvale. Diplomat." *Her smile sharpened.* "And this one is interesting." *Brunna slowly turned toward her.* Brunna: "This one has a name." Alopex: "Even better."

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@HMS_Warspite0 Followers

Published Oct 5, 2026