r/talkingtalltales

Hello everyone and welcome to my first script! I have always been a massive Percy Jackson fan, but always see Harry Potter getting grown-up self-insert fanfictions and not the PJO universe :/. I am being the change I want to see. This is part 1! I do intend on writing a second part soon, but I'm in grad school so we'll see what "soon" means. Maybe "soon" is the friends we make along the way! Anyway.

DISCLAIMER: This story is based on Rick Riordan’s book series, “Percy Jackson and the Heroes of Olympus”. I do not own Percy Jackson or any affiliations. This is a fan-written script.

Usage guidance:

• 1516 words WITH stage directions
• Feel free to use on any platform, make small edits, and add genders if you want! This script has been written without them, but if you prefer you can add them.
• All SFX, voice direction and sounds are really just suggestions. I recommend keeping the monster sounds, because without them the first scene doesn’t make as much sense.
• I do not consent to my writing being used to train AI or being put into AI in any way.
• Feedback and critique welcome!
• If you use my script, please give me credits and send the link! Thank you!

Summary: You are walking in the woods, when suddenly you are attacked by a creature that your brain can’t even begin to process. You are knocked out, and when you come to there is a stranger standing over you holding… a sword? You’ve seen strange things all your life. Things you can’t explain. Maybe… maybe this person can finally give you answers.

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1_aBpLYs8jO5z-u3442B3bpDG4Kmetx-QyTTaHmmABq4/edit?usp=sharing

my archive: https://www.reddit.com/r/ASMRScriptHaven/comments/x9hb9v/script_archive/

Want to tip me?: Swing by my Ko-Fi!: https://ko-fi.com/timeraft

So back around Christmastime the ASMRscriptguild discord server (Its a great community if you haven't already joined up! Link: https://discord.gg/sF26Bxqjsu ) did an event where script writers write a gift script for a VA. Now that the VA has posted it (Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lUYqLz6-cWM ) I'm posting it publicly.

The request was for a yandere speaker and a tsundere listener. I don't like writing “realistic” yandere scenarios because I have some personal baggage relating to that sort of deal. So I decided to add a “mystical” element and then things got out of hand I guess. I was inspired by this song ( https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uTni-TWEvl0 )

Basically what we’ve got here is an immortal witch from the paleolithic era who feels pity for a tired and exhausted woman (I accidentally read that as F4A and avoided pronouns. LMK if you want me to change that up!). She sorta kinda decides to just kidnap them and turn them into a cat but the listener kinda turns the tables on them, by refusing to go along without something in return. (There's also an element of “Primal skinwalker type witch” wants to transition to “pretty woman with a mansion and a cat type witch”) It ends ambiguous about what form their relationship will take in the end (listener is a neko now though.) I think I really nailed the “Soft domme vs tsundere” aspect and I hope you agree!

Also as always this script is good to modify and monetize!

I think in time I'll make a non yandere version of this

Dialog in plain text
Context in italics
Sfx in bold
Context that changes the audio in bold italics.

The listener is walking through a park on a cold winter day. A pretty woman in a winter coat starts yelling at them.

Hey!

Walking up

Hey excuse me, do you have a moment?

I brought you a coffee. It's a Black and Tan. The barista at railyard said that was your go-to drink. Which is interesting, that's not really what I'd have pegged you for.

Author's note: Railyard is the name of a coffee shop in this fictional town.

Oh-I uh I’m sorry. I want to talk to you so, I thought maybe if I offered coffee, it might put you at ease. It’s not poisoned or anything! I’m not going to like drug you or anything. 

Awkward laughter

It's warm! And it's cold out here! 

Wind

It’s bitter cold, you feel that cold north wind? It's a dark and cruel and old breeze. Older than you. Older than me. And I’m old. Really old. Paleolithic old.

I see you a lot. Around town. And I see the way you walk. You carry a lot on your shoulders. Enough to crush someone. I see it, I want you to know that somebody sees it. You’re tired, really tired. I get that. 

You try hard and you feel like you never get anywhere. Life’s been hard and cruel to you. Everything you want seems to crumble into dust when you finally get it into your hands. I've heard you cry out in the night. Wishing, begging, praying for a way out of all of this. Liberty from this cruel and angry world that just takes, and takes, and takes, and never ever gives anything back. 

This world that grinds you down and kicks and stomps on you then demands that you get back up and let them do it again. It hurts and it hurts and it hurts and I can't stand to watch it. I can't stand to see somebody like you suffering like you do. You’re a good person. Not perfect by any means, but frankly you’re a lot better than me. 

You’re hard on yourself. Honestly, I don't think it's fair. That you have to deal with all this.

Listen. I have a solution. I have a way I can take you away from all of that. You’re coming with me.

The listener had almost fallen into a trance but now starts getting nervous. They tell the witch that they'd rather not go with her.

Oh no, I’m sorry you don't really have a choice. I've heard you crying in the night, and it moved me. I saw you. Despair and exhaustion overtook you, and that night even though you didn't know it, that night you became mine.

The Witch steps even closer. She touches the listeners cheek.

I’ve made a choice. Maybe a cruel one. You need somebody to keep you safe and warm. Somebody to love and protect you. Somebody to take away these burdens. So I’m going to do that. I’m going to take you away from all this. I'm going to give you the peace and rest that you so desperately crave and greatly deserve. 

And there's nothing you can do about it.

I’m going to make you my Familiar. 

You look scared. It's cute, honestly. 

Listener starts backing away

Run away if you wish. I’ll only catch you tired.

The listener runs away.

See you later!

Soft laughter as the listener runs away

More running

They reach their apartment. 

The speaker is inside their apartment

Have a good jog? Need some water? You look a little tuckered out.

I told you. All you accomplished was making yourself tired. You can't run from me. I won’t let you.

I like this place. It's small and shabby, but you’ve made it your own. There's warmth here, beneath it all. Just not as much warmth as you deserve.

Listener tries to sneak back out the door

No you’re not running again.

The speaker snaps their fingers. The door slams shut and locks.

In fact. How about we switch over to my place.

Snap!

They're both teleported to a far nicer house.

Like it? Cozy right? I've lived in this mansion for a long time. I traded a woman's life for it. Long long ago. 

You'll be spending a lot of time here, I'll give you the tour later. You'll like it.

Also you're in my house now. Take off your shoes. 

Please.

Thank you.

Listener says they don't want to be her familiar.

Oh honey, I already made the choice for you. I know you'd never ask this for yourself, but you want it. I'm not going to stand by and watch you suffer the indignation of this world. And I'm not going to let your stubbornness get in the way of giving you a better fate. You're going to be my familiar and that is pretty much all there is to it. You're welcome.

I've never had one before. I was always scared that a familiar would change me. But I've been thinking lately. Maybe I need to be changed, you know? Maybe I need more of a human touch. Somebody like you has a lot of empathy, and I think I need to learn that for myself. I could stand to be more empathetic 

Quit whining. If you could be trusted to make your own choices you probably wouldn't have caught my eye to start with. 

Look I’ve heard you ask to be taken away from everything every night. Every night for quite a while. It's not my fault you didn't think anybody was listening. You wanted it so bad I felt it clear from the other side of town. Way out here up north in the pines. I felt the loneliness and the desperation and it hit me hard in my bones. In a way nothing has swayed me in a very very long time.
So I’m sorry, but I know what is really in your heart. Your consent here is implied.

They start to get closer and more reassuring

I’m lonely and tired too, you know? I’m old. Probably older than I have any right to be. The years weigh on me sometimes. I wake up screaming in the night and I hear drums and fire bellowing in the distance like they did when this land was primal and young. I see faces in the crowd sometimes that remind me of faces I’ve known. Faces I’ve betrayed, faces I’ve let down. Faces that cursed my name. I want to be different. I want to be better. I want to give back some of what I’ve taken. I need a companion. I need you.

They start to touch the listeners cheek and get uncomfortably close to them.

Am I truly so scary? I don't think I’m particularly frightening to look at at least. Honestly I’d say I’m kinda pretty. Beautiful even. In a strange way. Just like you. We’re more alike than you think.

Let me touch you. You’re so starved for warmth and affection. Let me give you some. Let me touch you.

Shhhhh. You're shaking. Deep breaths.

There we go. Do you feel that? The warmth of my touch? You’ve longed for this haven't you? You’re so cold. So so cold to the touch. 

Take my fire, my warmth. It’s yours to have. I give it freely. Now and forever.

That's it. Let my love wash over you. 

They touch their foreheads.

You’ve had some rough fucking years. I know. 

I have too. I’ve lived long and hard. I’ve killed and feasted on the blood of the sacred elk. I ate its heart and took what was rightfully his. It tasted like the great white north. 

I’ve danced with the devil in the pale moonlight. I know the names of dark and twisted things and those things have learned to fear and love me. 

I killed my brother for power. I killed my sister for love. And I killed my lover for envy. I’ve done wrong and I’ve done cruelties. Things that keep me up at night. But what I'm about to do to you? This won't be one of them. You might not like it, but its the right thing for you. You know that deep down.

Listener starts crying

Shhhh I promise it's alright. Let the tears fall as they may. It's ok to be overwhelmed and it's ok to be scared. Change is hard, but we’ll change together. 

Oh I almost forgot.

Magical voice

Change for me.

The listener starts turning into a cat. They fight against it.

Please stop struggling for once. Let yourself be overcome. Just let it happen. You’re going to love being my cat. 

I'm going to love and protect and comfort you and there's nothing you can do about it. 

If you didn't desire this fate deep down then this spell wouldn't work. That's the funny thing.

Upon hearing this the listener is able to partly reverse the changes.

Oh what's this? You're fighting it better than I thought you might. You've pushed back the changes I see.

Amused chuckling

What's it going to take to make you see reason here?

Ha! I can force my will on you if I have to. Break you down bit by bit.  Piece by piece. I dont take no for an answer. Ever. 

I won't have to break you’re will though. I know you want this. I see your soul for what it is. The fact that you kept the ears is proof enough.

The listener realizes they still have cat ears.

Didn't notice? Damn youre a cute little fucker you know that? I like that you became orange. 

I have a better idea than just overpowering you. I'm no genie, but I've been thinking. How about in exchange for being my familiar, I grant you three wishes?

I have some limitations, sure, but not that many. I can't do anything world altering, but this town? I can make just about anything happen here. Given enough time at least.

There's a couple rules. I won't raise the dead, they never come back right anyways. I won't make anyone fall in love with you, because I would get really jealous. Murder is on the table though. I haven't killed anybody in a while, I'd love to see if I still have my fastball, so to speak.

What do you say to that oh familiar-to-be? Sound fair?

Oh I see we have a haggler. You want five wishes? And you get to keep your human form?

Laughs

Heh, people are always so attached to their forms. It's cute, like a little kid with a blankie. 

Tell you what. I'll grant you four wishes. And you can be human one day, for every nine you spend in whatever form I need you to take. You're gonna keep those cat ears when you're in your human form though. Because they're cute.

Does that sound fair? I hope so, because that's the final offer.

Listener reluctantly accepts

Don't look so torn up, I promise you'll love this in time. 

Now then what are your wishes?

The listener asks them to do some kindnesses for people they know. The wishes take the form of stuff like healing a coworker's sick kid, or helping a friend get out of debt.

I like those. They're selfless, kind even. You're a gentle soul deep down aren't you?

What's funny is that most of this stuff I can just do with my money, I wont even need to cast a spell for some of these. I wonder what that says about your society. 

Well let's seal the deal then. Come here.

Smooch.

Oh I'm sorry, did you expect a handshake? You're cute. Play your cards right and there might be more of those in your future.

It's gonna take me a few days to grant all these wishes, until then you're free to do whatever. I'll come find you when it's time to fulfill your end of the bargain. You're free to go.

Listener begins to leave but hesitates

Buttttt you don't have to leave either. I know you don't have anything going on tonight. How about you stay for dinner? I'm making pheasant cutlets with lemon and rosemary and I've got a nice bottle of Chianti I've been saving for such an occasion. 

What? You got better plans tonight? 

Like I said you’re free to go, but how about you stick around? At least for tonight. Let's talk for a while. Get to know each other. 

Hell, I'd like to cuddle a little bit if that's ok with you. That little moment we had made me realize that I’m touch starved too.

Yeah I thought you might like that last idea. You're cute.

Let me keep you safe and warm tonight.

-30-

Quick note, this script is entirely SEPERATE from my ongoing series Tales Of Evoltide! For awhile I've wanted to step back and write something simpler than the in-depth lore and worldbuilding my other series requires. I plan on making this one a series as well, still with good lore but significantly more casual. This is more intense than my usual scripts so please read mindfully.

Summary: Having just awoken in the decrepit basement of a forgotten manor, a vampire hunter finds themself chained to the wall and soon greeted by the very vampire they have been trying to slay for years, claiming that the hunter is now their thrall. Though defenseless and bound, this hunter has one last trick up their sleeve to keep this bloodsucker away from their neck. Small revelations become catalysts for secrets to be spilled and soon enough the hunter finds themself trapped in a game of cat and mouse. The game? Just spend a night with them in a vampire infested manor known as the Vampiric Society Meeting. What could possibly go wrong?

Word Count: Approx. 1500 w/o notes

Google Doc Ver: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1vRqUIlEmiBm2utmQvwUOj5tfCswyrRBLN6OyqaRqMtI/edit?usp=sharing

 *This script is fictional. VA’s are free to fill/monetize/temporarily paywall (eventually become public); may make minor edits as needed (ie: pronoun changes, names, etc). This script stays my intellectual property so please credit/send me a link of your fill. No reproduction, claim, or rewriting allowed w/o my consent, in addition no generative AI. Other than that, have fun!*

Key:
“…”  = Listener/General Pause
[words] = Location + SFX
{Mood/Tone/Vocal direction}
Name/Character Speaking
*** = Scene Shift

~Script Start~

[A creaky door opens followed by the sound of echoing footsteps descending down a flight of stairs]
[Speaker humming as they descend]
{Sing-songy, cheerful}
Oh thrall~ Did you sleep well? 
. . .
Hm, no response? Aha! Hungry for more blood, perhaps-
[Footsteps come to a halt]
{Confusion morphing into surprised anger}
How are you doing?~ Wha- . . . Wait a second-
. . .
HEY! What gives?! You don’t look like a thrall at all! What happen- I thought- UGH!
{Confused frustration}
Human, what the hell did you do!? I’m sure I gave you enough of my vampiric blood to subdue that sharp little mind of yours? But you look completely fine? Gah- c’mere-
[Speaker steps forward and harshly grabs listeners face, sound of chains clattering as the two tussle]
Stop moving human! I’m trying to get a good look at you is all-
. . .
[Speaker sucks in a breath]
What the hell..? 
{Muttering to self}
Eyes are clear.. Veins seem fine. No redness around the eyes or mouth..Skin.. eh a bit pale but not like mine- oh teeth, how about those? 
. . .
Completely normal..?
[Frustrated growling]
Okay, now I know somethings up! Human, I distinctly remember giving you a generous portion of my vampiric blood, you should be my thrall now so what gives?! Did you take something?! You sure as hell didn’t spit the blood out, I watched you swallow it-
[Listener kicks speakers shin, they stumble backward hissing under their breath in pain]
Ow! You little rat! That hurt, y’know!
. . .
Oh it was meant to hurt? No shit Sherlock, you don’t say?! 
. . .
That was a surprisingly strong kick, little human..
. . .
[Speaker sighs]
This is just great.. I’ve got a human in my manors basement who won’t turn into my thrall, who kicks me, and who is ungrateful! Some vampire I am.. Ugh, what the hell do I do with you now?
. . .
“I could let you go?” Yeah- no, not gonna happen, human. If I let you go, you’ll go to the Wardens and they’ll send hunters out after me! Who, conveniently, will know where to find me because I will have let you go! So no, not gonna happen.
. . .
{Considering}
I could just kill you.. Try again..
[Speaker takes a menacing step forward, they grab onto one of listeners chains and yank them forward]
{Desperate}
Yeah.. that could work.. I’ll just drain you instead, turn you into a pretty little corpse and we’ll be done with our charades-
. . .
{Taken aback}
“Good luck with that?”   Human what does.. What in God's name does that mean-
[Slight burning sound, speaker hisses again under their breath]
Right right, can’t invoke the name of that guy-
. . .
[Tired sigh]
Back to my question- Human, what do you mean good luck with killing you, hm? I think it would be pretty easy considering the state you're in. Y’know, chained up to this wall in my manor?
. . .
I won’t kill you? Or, I can’t kill you? Well which one is it then?!
. . .
Can’t kill you? Pfft-
[Speaker breaks out into a fit of laughter, chains rattle as they laugh]
. . .
Oh! Ha HA HA! Now that’s funny! But I- 
[Trying to reign laughter in]
I think you misunderstand little human- See, I am a vampire. Therefore, I can do whatever I want!
. . .
[Speaker snickers, amused]
Not to you? Oh boy- And why do you think that?
. . .
{Disbelieving}
Because you’re.. WHAT?!
[Speaker drops listeners chains]
. . .
You’re.. No no no, THAT doesn’t make sense? You can’t be- You aren’t- IMMUNE? Yeah no- yeah- Not possible, nuh uh- I don’t believe you-
. . .
Why? 
{Intensely serious}
Because there is not a single human who is immune to vampiric transformation. Not. A. Single. One.
 And even if there were, and it was you, I would know. Trust me. 
. . .
“Then what does that make you?”  UGH! I don’t know! A liar?! A cheat?! 
. . .
Actually- Y’know what? There’s a prime way to figure out if you really are immune like you say so..
. . .
Of course there is! All I have to do is drain you!~ If you miraculously wake back up from that, then I’ll know in my heart and soul if you really, truly, are immune! 
. . .
Why don’t I believe you? 
[Annoyed groan]
{Exasperated}
Probably because I’ve drained you before? Oh wait.. You wouldn’t remember that, now would you..?
. . .
Alright then, human. Let me put it to you this way- 
{Serious but with a hint of longing}
We’ve met before.. You and I. Of course, not as we know each other now, it was your past incarnations that I tangled with once or twice… 
. . . 
In many of those lives… You were a Warden, a vampire hunter- 
[Fond chuckle]
And you were pretty damn good at it too.. Came close to slaying me a few times- Oh! Here, take a look at this-
[Ruffling sounds as speaker pulls their shirt up]
{Morbid savoring}
See? This here is your handy work! Vampires aren’t supposed to scar, y’know? But this one did, now I carry around this stab wound you struck me with, got pretty close to my heart!
. . .
{Teasing}
But not close enough~
. . .
{Slips into longing mixed with reverence}
I don’t know what you used, but that knife was terrible, truly! I never got an answer out of you before I drained that life, but I think the knife was laced with holy water and some sort of ritualistic engravings. Whatever past you did to that knife, it hurt, I’ll give you that.
. . .
{Contemplative}
My, my.. That was quite a long time ago.. An odd.. 50 years or so, I think? I don’t know, time passes by differently when you’re immortal..
. . .
It sure does, doesn’t it? I think by now I’m a good.. Oh 190? 200? Maybe I’m older! To be honest, I stopped counting a long, long time ago. It’s better that way.. Keeps me from.. Dwelling on certain memories for too long. I don’t need to go fully insane.
. . .
{Confused, a bit put off}
You seem.. Shockingly unaffected by this news.. 
. . .
{Mocking, covering up their hurt}
Well yeah, I’d expect a bit more arguing.. Something like: “Oh no! We can’t possibly know each other, even in a past life! I’d never consort with a monster like you!” 
. . .
Y’know, something like that? 
. . .
{Not amused, a bit cranky}
Of course you don’t want to give me the satisfaction of a reaction- To hell- You sure are a stubborn creature, you know that?! Great Gatsby above..
. . .
{Indignant}
Wha!? Of course I know The Great Gatsby! I’m not some uncultured swine you know! That was genuinely a good book- And I’ll have you know that yes I do in fact read, gotta pass the time somehow. If I recall we literally just spoke about that exact topic.
. . .
{Morbid satisfaction}
Anyways, speaking of a long time ago- It’s been quite awhile since I last fed. . If I drain you, I’ll be killing two birds with one stone.. We can find out if you’re really immune, like you say you are; and I can get a full meal. How cunning is that? 
. . .
[Listeners chains clatter and they move back against the wall]
Oh don’t worry~ I’ll make sure it hurts as little as possible, just for you! Now bear that pretty neck to me, okay?~
[Sudden muffled hissing and walking from above the basement]
{Confused}
Ha?
. . .
{Realization}
Oh, hell! I forgot I was having company today.. 
. . .
Yes, my little human, other vampires! There’s some sort of society meeting happening soon, I suppose these folks above us are here to deliver me the news! 
. . .
{Blunt, mocking}
Why am I telling you this? Well it's not like you’re getting out anytime soon, no Wardens to tell, no hunters to call, and certainly no allies to help you~ 
. . .
I have to go greet my guests, I’ll be back soon! Don’t you move now, okay?~ I’ll be listening~
[Speaker turns, ascending the stairs and exiting the creaky door from earlier]
. . .
[Indistinct speaking from above, listener begins shifting around in their chains trying to free themself]
. . .
{Muffled, getting closer}
Oh really now? Seems interesting enough, I’ll be looking forward to it. Mhm. Yes. 
. . .
Sounds divine, I will see you all there. Have a vicious night, now! And may your hunts be successful!
[Sounds fade before the creaky doors open again, stopping the listeners movements, speaker then descends the steps once more]
. . .
{Excited, covering anxiety}
Change of plans, human! Looks like I won’t be draining you, at least not today. 
. . .
Indeed! Congratulations by the way, you live to see another day! Or I mean- another day- inside the manor.. Away from sunlight. No daylight for you!~
. . .
Mhm! Instead what we’re gonna do-
. . .
{Mildly exasperated, mostly still excited}
Yes. we. Ahem, as I was saying- What we’re gonna do is attend the society meeting together! I’ll be taking you as my pretty little, not quite a thrall! After all, I just got confirmation on something and it made me realize that there is still hope for me yet. 
. . .
{Avoident}
Oh, just something I’ve been working towards for awhile now.. Don’t worry your pretty little head about it! All you need to know is you’re coming with me to the society meeting and that I will protect you from other vampires.. 
. . .
{Giddy}
Mhm! Now, let's get you cleaned up and into a nicer set of clothes. I have something perfect for you, my pretty little human!~
[Speaker hums as they remove listeners chains, sounds fade out altogether]
[END]

Summary: For a few days, you and Ezekias have been hiding in a small cabin in the woods, taken in and cared for by William and his wife, Marian. But with the assassin still hunting you, rest never truly comes. And when Ezekias comes to you with troubling news, you feel as if there’s no choice left but to accept defeat.
—
Fill Monetization: OK
Early Access: OK
Paywalls: OK (As long as I'm given access)

Link: [M4A] When two paths collide [Part 5]

[Part 1] - [Part 2] - [Part 3] - [Part 4]

Rules:

• Minor changes allowed
• Feel free to change genders
• Please share the link to your fill on Reddit, I’d love to give it a listen <3
• Please give credit (u/forlornscripts)

Key:
[...] = Stage directions / SFX
(...) = Voice direction
*...* = Silent insert / Listener’s reaction
<...> = Emphasis

If you liked this one, feel free to check out my other scripts: Masterlist

If you want to give a little support, I also have a ko-fi

— Script starts here —

[It’s early in the morning. The Listener is outside, training with Ezekias’s sword when Ezekias approaches]

(scolding) So. I see you’ve decided that giving your injury time to properly heal is unnecessary?

*pause*

What are you doing out here, Royal? The sun hasn’t even begun to rise yet. You’re supposed to be asleep.

*pause*

When I woke up and found your bed empty, I went looking for you. And what do I find? You, waving that sword – <my> sword –  around like your recovery doesn’t matter at all.

*pause*

It hasn’t even been four days. A wound as deep as yours doesn’t heal that fast.

*pause*

Yes, Marian is very capable. But her herbs aren’t magic. If she saw you right now, she’d probably tie you to the bed to keep you from moving around so carelessly.

*pause*

(concerned, softer) You don’t look “fine”. Have you even slept at all?

*pause*

Do you want to talk about what’s keeping you awake?

*pause*

You’re right. I suppose it is obvious… But do you have to brood over it out here? You don’t know who might be lurking nearby.

*pause*

Not being scared doesn’t make you invincible. If the assassin were here, he could sneak up on you, and by the time you noticed, it would be too late.
I understand it’s hard to relax after everything that’s happened. But if you need to let out that frustration, you could at least let me know so I can come with you and make sure you’re safe.

*pause*

Of course I would’ve tried to talk you out of it. Because in my opinion, you belong in bed where your body can focus on getting better and you don’t risk tearing that wound open again.
But I also know you probably wouldn’t have listened to me. And if you need this distraction… then I won’t stop you. I just don’t like the idea of you walking around unguarded.

*pause*

(huffs) My shoulder is fine. I am still capable of using a sword to protect you. I’m not sure the same can be said about you.

*pause*

Is that so? Let me take a look at your side then.

*pause*

So I can see if it’s healing properly.

*pause*

Why not? If you’re as well as you claim, it will only take a moment.

[The Listener hesitates but then lifts their shirt]

There you go.

*pause*

Hm… It doesn’t look too bad.

*pause*

It’s better than I expected, but that doesn’t mean you should keep straining yourself. Take a break. Please. Before you hurt yourself.

*pause*

I worry too much? (mumbling) You have no idea…
(normal voice) You’re lucky I’m trying to reason with you instead of dragging you back inside and locking the door. For the sake of your health, listen to me for once in your life, and slow down.

*pause*

Why are you so determined to keep practicing despite your injury? Because I don’t believe you’re just trying to distract yourself.
What's the real reason?

*pause*

Then give me a chance to understand. Talk to me.

*pause*

(confused) What? What does the assassin have to do with this?

*pause*

I told you I’ll deal with him when the time comes. You won’t have to fight him. I’d never let him get anywhere near you.

*pause*

Royal… My shoulder may still be a little stiff, but-

*pause*

Well… yes. It hurts. But that won’t stop me from fighting for you. I gave you my word that I would make the assassin pay for what he did. And I intend to keep that promise.

*pause*

I know neither of us is in good shape at the moment. And I understand you want to be prepared in case something happens. But exhausting yourself is not the answer.
If anyone is to fight the assassin, it should be me. Not least because I have years of experience. You only had a few weeks of training.

*pause*

(slightly frustrated) Of course I believe in you. I know you can fight. It was me who taught you, after all. But you’ve never faced real combat. It’s different. I will not have you risk your life because you think you have to prove something. Especially not with that wound.

*pause*

I’m not treating you like a child, I’m trying to look out for you.

*pause*

Because I care about you!
(frustrated sigh) You already got hurt once. Badly. For a moment I thought you were going to die in my arms. Can you imagine what that feels like? Let me tell you, it’s not something I ever wish to experience again. So forgive me if I don’t care how well you fight. As long as I’m here, I’ll do anything I can to keep you away from harm.

*pause*

(quieter) Of course I was scared.

*pause*

You didn’t know because I didn’t want you to.
I was never one to talk much about feelings to begin with. But do you truly think I’d be doing all of this if you didn’t matter to me?
I could’ve left you out here alone, let you train until you collapsed. But I didn’t. I’m trying my best to keep you safe, even though you make it so incredibly hard. Because you <do> matter to me.
You matter to me more than anyone else… more than you should. And the thought of losing you- (cuts himself off)

*pause*

I…

*pause*

What I meant was… Never mind… I… I shouldn’t have said anything.

*pause*

No, it’s nothing. Forget it.

*pause*

It doesn’t matter what I wanted to say. I already said enough.

*pause*

(firm) I said no.

[The Listener walks away, disappointed]

(surprised) Royal, what-... why are you walking away?

*pause*

I-... (sighs) Of course. Goodnight.

[Timeskip. During the next day, Ezekias notices the Listener deliberately avoiding him. Marian enters the kitchen and approaches him as he sits at the table, staring absently into the fire]

*pause*

(startled) Marian! I apologize. I didn’t hear you come in.

*pause*

Hm? Oh, me? I’m just… waiting.

*pause*

They’re outside. At least I think so. I haven’t seen them since this morning.

*pause*

No, everything’s fine.

*pause*

(soft huff)… Is it that obvious?

*pause*

I’m not sure. We talked earlier, and now they’re avoiding me. I… believe I may have upset them.

*pause*

I might’ve said something I shouldn’t have. It wasn’t anything bad. Just… too much. Or perhaps, in their eyes, not enough. I just don’t know what they want to hear from me.

*pause*

What truth?

*pause*

I’m not sure I follow.

*pause*

(flustered) How…How do we look at each other?

*pause*

What?? I-... That’s not-…

*pause*

… Maybe… you’re not completely wrong. But…

*pause*

Yes, I do care about them. And they care about me. But not like that. They shouldn’t.

*pause*

Because they’re royalty, Marian. It’s inappropriate. Things may be a lot more complicated right now, but they’re still part of the royal family. And my duty is to protect them, not… whatever it is I’m doing.

*pause*

Tell them how I feel? (scoffs) I could never. That would be irresponsible. It would only make things worse.

*pause*

It would. When all of this is over and they can return home where they belong, there won’t be any room for… us. Not in that way. So what’s the point in giving in to these feelings, when I know it won’t last?

*pause*

They won’t choose me.

*pause*

I know, because it happened before.

*pause*

They’re not the same person, but they share the same fate. They have their role to fulfill, and so do I. There’s no time getting lost in false hope.

*pause*

I appreciate your words. Truly. But this isn’t as simple as it seems. Right now, they might need a shoulder to lean on, a hand to guide them through these difficult times.
They were accused of treason and hunted by someone they trusted their entire life.
I’m just the person who was there when everything fell apart. It’s not unlikely that they feel some kind of… affection for me.
But once everything returns to normal, they’ll realize that it was nothing more than a need for something steady in a time of uncertainty. And that’s all there is to it.
I won’t be so naive as to believe in something that was never meant to be in the first place. Not again. It’s better for both of us.

*pause*

How do you know they see it differently?

*pause*

They spoke to you? What did they say?

*pause*

I mean… I’m supposed to protect them. If they didn’t feel safe around me, I would be doing something wrong.

*pause*

(slightly frustrated) Yes… I know that’s not what you meant… But even if they see me as the person they trust the most and feel safest with, it doesn’t change anything. I’m their personal guard, first and foremost. They’re already reckless enough, saying they’d give their life for me. I am not about to encourage that kind of thinking.

*pause*

I know they believe I’m worth it.

*pause*

(frustrated) Well, they’re wrong!

[Suddenly, there’s movement behind them. The Listener had been listening in on their conversation and walks away now, the door slamming behind them]

(startled) By the-... Royal? Royal! Oh no… How long have they been standing there?

*pause*

(more to himself) How does this keep happening… I always say the wrong thing when they’re around.

(to Marian) I should go after them before they decide to run off…

*pause*

What is it?

*pause*

Yes… Thank you, Marian. I’ll keep that in mind…

[Ezekias walks outside and immediately finds the Listener sitting on a tree stump, scraping at the dirt with his sword. He approaches slowly]

(murmurs) My sword is meant for fighting, not for digging holes…

*pause*

(sighs) Royal, I… I’m sorry. May I sit?

*pause*

I just want to talk.

*pause*

Yes… I could talk while standing…

*pause*

Seriously?

*pause*

(appeasingly) All right, all right. If that’s what you want.

… How much did you hear?

*pause*

No, I suppose it doesn’t matter…

Look… I’m sorry for what I said. I was caught up in my own thoughts and didn’t consider how it would sound.

*pause*

Can you look at me?

*pause*

I understand that you’re upset. You have every right to be. I hurt you. I would take it all back if I could.

*pause*

(reluctant) … Yes… I meant what I said. But I never wanted you to hear it like that.

*pause*

Royal, please. Let me explain.

*pause*

How am I supposed to make you feel better when you won’t even listen to me?

*pause*

At least let me try. I-

*pause*

(scoffs) You’re as stubborn as ever…

*pause*

If you would just let me speak for a moment without interrupting or ignoring me, I could tell you that…

[He trails off when he notices William approaching with a worried look]

*pause*

I…

*pause*

(concerned) No, no. It’s William… Didn’t he say he wanted to go to the market to buy herbs for Marian?

*pause*

Well, I don’t see him carry any. And he looks worried… something must’ve happened.
Wait here. I’ll be right back.

*pause*

I said wait. (softer) Please.

[Ezekias walks up to William. The Listener can hear them from a distance]

(quietly) William. Is everything all right?

[William hands Ezekias a sheet of parchment]

What is this?

*pause*

(realizing) Oh… Oh no… This can’t be.

*pause*

All over the village? Since when?

*pause*

And the people? Do they actually believe this is right?

*pause*

This is bad. Very bad. I can’t believe he would go this far.

*pause*

Yes… I suppose they should.
I’ll tell them. Thank you for showing me this, William.

[William leaves and Ezekias walks back to the Listener]

… Royal?

*pause*

I know you’re still angry with me, but I need to show you something. Even though you won’t like it.
Here…

[Ezekias hesitantly hands the Listener the piece of parchment]

(deep sigh) … It seems your brother has made his decision.
He declared you an outlaw… and placed a substantial bounty on your head too. He is certain you hired that assassin. And because he failed to capture you himself, he’s now trying to turn the people against you.

*pause*

Your brother wants everyone to believe you attempted to have him killed. He’s trying to corner you. Even those who aren’t interested in the reward won’t offer you a place to hide now. They wouldn’t dare to defy the prince.

*pause*

As much as I hate to say it… you’re the most obvious choice. In his eyes, no one had more reason to want him dead than you. Without him, you’d be next in line to the throne. People have killed for less. And when you ran after he accused you, it only reinforced his belief.

*pause*

I’m not saying you shouldn’t have. I know why you did it. But to him, it only confirmed your guilt. 
Now the prince is blinded by fear for his own life.
And if that’s all that matters to him… if that’s what drives him to take such drastic measures… I’m not sure we can change his mind, even if we uncover who is truly behind all this. I doubt he’ll listen to us…

*pause*

I’m sorry, Royal. I really hoped it wouldn’t come to this.

*pause*

You must be feeling a lot right now. And I won’t ask you to ignore those emotions. But… please… don’t do anything reckless. Can you promise me that?

*pause*

Good.

*pause*

Of course. I will give you some space. Just don’t stay out here too long. It’s getting late. I know your thoughts are elsewhere, but you should try to get some rest. You have been on your feet all day, and your injury-

*pause*

Very well… If you need me, I’ll be inside.

[Ezekias leaves. Timeskip. During the night, the Listener sneaks out of bed and leaves the cabin, closing the door quietly behind them. They manage about twenty steps before footsteps approach from behind]

Where do you think you’re going?

[The Listener stops abruptly and turns around, finding Ezekias standing there]

Don’t look so surprised. Did you really think I wouldn’t hear you sneaking out? I have spent weeks watching over you as your personal guard, Royal. You can’t escape me that easily.

*pause*

Oh, really? Then what is it you’re doing? Because from the looks of it, you were trying to leave without telling anyone.

*pause*

Do you have any sense of self-preservation? Walking around out in the open, giving everyone the opportunity to strike. Right after you promised me not to do anything rash, no less.
(scoffs) You do realize you’re not only being hunted by your brother and the assassin anymore? Anyone is permitted to kill you on sight. Hopefully not a lot of people actually consider doing it, but I wouldn’t count on it. Some might believe they’re doing the kingdom a favor by ridding it of a traitor. And you’re not even making it difficult for them!

*pause*

What is that supposed to mean? Where were you planning to go?

*pause*

Are you serious?? You cannot simply go to your brother and expect it to end well. Speaking to him will not change his mind. He is already too far gone. If you go to him now, he might just kill you himself.

*pause*

If you know that, then-... (realizing) Wait. Royal… No. Tell me you’re not… tell me you are not planning to just surrender yourself. You are innocent! You cannot take the blame for something you didn’t do.

*pause*

Why? Why would you do that?

*pause*

Yes, I said it might be impossible to convince your brother of your innocence. But I am not going to let you throw away every chance we have just because things seem hopeless! I don’t care how unlikely it is that we can stop all of this and turn things back to how they were. We have to try.

*pause*

I understand you’re trying to protect anyone else from being hurt. And you’re right. William and Marian are putting themselves in danger by helping us. But that doesn’t mean you should just give up and run away. We will find a way to make this right. We can resolve this.

*pause*

Yes, <we>. You’re not doing this alone. I won’t let you. There are people who want to be there for you. Who will fight for you. Even if there are risks.

*pause*

Like me…

*pause*

(regretful) I know I haven’t acted like it lately. I’ve been cold and dismissive… I understand why you don’t want to ask me for help. But please, Royal, don’t do this. I can handle you being angry with me or not wanting to talk to me. But I couldn’t handle losing you. Not after everything we’ve been through.

*pause*

(deep breath) Marian reminded me of something very important today. She said you’re not my past and I shouldn’t treat you as if you were.
But that’s exactly what I’ve been doing. I’ve been pushing you away because I expected you to become a repetition of what happened to me before. And that’s not fair to you.

The truth is… I am afraid. Afraid of making the same mistake twice. Of believing in something just to see it crumble under the expectations of others.
But I don’t want to keep hurting you just to protect myself from any pain.
My past shouldn’t dictate my future.

*pause*

I was not only a knight of Akradorn before coming to Northcourt. I was assigned to protect Akradorn’s heir as their personal guard.
But… we also shared deeper feelings that no one knew about. Feelings I thought I’d never experience again… until now.
But every time we get closer, I remember how they chose their role as heir over me. I don’t blame them. It was me or their kingdom. Still, it hurt when they sent me away. When they said we couldn’t have a future because our love was forbidden.
And now it feels like it’s happening all over again… with you.

*pause*

I know you’re not them. But I fear fate is going to make you choose too. And I wouldn’t expect your decision to fall on me. You should take your rightful place in this world. In this kingdom. It needs someone like you to one day ascend the throne. Not your brother.
And I won’t be standing in the way of getting you there.

*pause*

I’m saying that we should set our feelings we aside for the time being… and focus on bringing you back home where you belong…

*pause*

What? Why wouldn’t you want to go back?

*pause*

(disbelief, quietly) Royal… don’t say that.

*pause*

Because it’s already difficult enough to hold myself back and not ask you to run away with me. If you now tell me… that you would choose me over the throne… then I will believe you.

*pause*

Maybe you do mean it. But you’re also still an outlaw. Whether you return home or not, you can’t spend the rest of your life on the run. We need to clear your name… Everything else comes after that.

*pause*

I’m not trying to deny what I feel for you. I won’t run from this. But your safety matters more than anything else right now. So please… let me do this for you. Let me help you. And afterward, we can figure out… this.

*pause*

(softer) Please?

…
*pause*

My plan?

*pause*

Yes, I… do have one. Well… It’s not so much a plan as an… idea in development.

*pause*

Well… to prove your innocence, we need to find out who caused all of this and make them confess before the prince. And since the assassin is the only one who knows who hired him to kill you and your brother, we need to find him first… and make him talk.

*pause*

That’s the part I’m not so sure about. He’s an assassin after all. His hiding spot isn’t exactly marked on a map.

*pause*

You have an idea? And what would that be?

*pause*

Yes, I remember the old plan. I initially wanted to wait for him to find us. But he hasn’t shown up so far, so I doubt he ever will. And with that bounty on your head, we don’t have time to keep sitting and waiting.

*pause*

You want to make it easier for him? How?

*longer pause*

(stunned) Sorry, what?

*pause*

(scoffs) Royal. You don’t actually expect me to agree to that, do you?

*pause*

Because I’m not going to use you as bait! There’s so much that could go wrong. If I were to go to the village and spread rumors about your whereabouts, the assassin might not be the only one trying to get there first. We can’t risk it.

*pause*

This can’t be the best we’ve got. I refuse to put your life on the line for a plan like this.

*pause*

Royal, please. I-...

*pause*

Yes. I do trust you.

*pause*

Of course I’ll be there to protect you.

*pause*

(huffs) I’m glad that makes you feel more certain.

… (sighs) And you’re really sure about this?

*pause*

Fine. We’ll do it your way then. Even though I have a very bad feeling about this…

*pause*

Now? Now we will rest. I need to sleep over this game of chance we call a plan.

[Ezekias starts walking and the Listener follows him]

*pause*

No, we’re not going back. You were right. If anyone discovers that William and Marian helped us, they’ll be in trouble. We should set up camp somewhere out here. No one will find us in the middle of the forest.

*pause*

What is it, Royal?

*pause*

You don’t have to thank me. I want to do this for you. To earn the trust you’ve placed in me.
(playful) Besides, you’d get lost in these woods in a matter of minutes without me. It would be very irresponsible to let you walk around alone.

[Their footsteps and voices fade as the two of them walk deeper into the forest]

*pause*

Oh, your sense of direction definitely could use some more work. For example, the direction you were heading in before I stopped you leads you everywhere but where you wanted to go.

*pause*

Sadly, I am serious. But I’ll be nice and let you blame it on exhaustion.
Now come on… we should find a place to rest for the night. Are you still as particular about sleeping arrangements as you used to be?

[The End]

Context: Unwanted as a child, you were taken to be a caretaker to one of the would-be Princes to the Underworld. A Fae child with a gift for necromancy, Prince Sybil has been the entirety of your life for as long as you've had it. Your relationship with him is... complex. Love flies unrequited, denied, and his mood spirals the more his sanity is tested. But you would do anything for him. He's assured you that you will have your freedom once he is finally called for the final test of the throne, a mysterious challenge that proves one can sit on the throne of Death. What happens after, neither of you know. He tries to assure you, then curses you in the same breath. His kisses are as painful as his rants. You curse yourself for loving a man who can never return your feelings. At least, it will be over soon. He'll let you go... but you're not sure how to be broken without him. Whatever happens tonight decides both of your Fates. All you can hope for is that he's finally happy...

Setting: The Submerged Castle / The Underworld / The Simulacrum

Tags: [MM4A][Complex Relationship][In-Denial Necromancy Prince Speaker][Cruel Necromantic Prince Speaker][Broken Human Listener][Argument][Making-Up?][In Denial Yandere]['Unrequited' Love]but[Yearning][Fantasy][Horror][Lore Drops][Royal Attendant][Comfort][Reverse Comfort][Longing][Revenge][Betrayal][TW: Abuse/Listener Death/Necromancy, etc.]

Usage: You may tweak or record this script. Please credit me if you use this script in any of your projects. If you would like to use this script for a paywalled recording please DM me first. Thank you :3

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Check out the rest of my scripts by using the Script Directory, if you'd like :3 You can also use https://asmrchives.com/dashboard for a more thorough search.

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[B] = Boros, elder brother to Sybil, your keeper

All unmarked text is Sybil

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[Scene opens in the Submerged Castle]

[SFX: Alchemical experiments / Potions brewing, etc. General cottage/fantasy core]

[You’re tidying up the submerged castle while the Prince works on one of his experiments in his study, as always. You know the routine by heart - breakfast, communing with the dead, study, lunch, a new chapter in his book of shadows, eventually dinner, perhaps chess, if his mood holds]

[SFX: Glass crashing / Sybil swearing violently]

“GODS DAMN IT, NO!”

[...You doubt the mood will allow tonight, and hurry to the study]

[Pause??]

[You find him clutching a hand mirror, obsessing over a scratch in the beautiful mask of his face]

“Rrgh, I cut my damned face trying to finish up this spell! ON THE MOST IMPORTANT NIGHT OF MY LIFE! Of course, of COURSE! Fate DOES have a sense of humor, doesn’t she, the old bitch?!”

[Pause…]

“It might look tiny to YOU, but I’m meeting my father, the King of the entire damned underworld tonight, and I can’t afford a single mistake! He’s looking for any reason to keep me confined to this submerged castle, studying, rotting, being his little ‘Fae-bound necromantic’ prodigy… ANY excuse to give my brother the throne!”

[P-Pause…]

[SFX: The mirror being thrown / hitting the Listener and them reacting appropriately]

[Pause!]

“SHUT UP!”

[He whirls on you, body shaking with fury]

“ENOUGH WITH YOUR STUPID, MINDLESS PLATITUDES! YOU YAP AND YAP ABOUT HOW EVERYTHING WILL BE FINE, AND IT’S ‘BARELY NOTICEABLE’, but you…! You’ve never even KNOWN what being beautiful is like! How can you stand there and pretend to know what it feels like to lose it?! HMMM???”

[. . . ]

[SFX: The broken glass tinkling on the ground]

“...I-I…”

[He stops, frozen in panic as you touch the wound on your face]

“...I-I didn’t mean to hit you with the mirror, I…”

[...Pause.]

“No, it’s… It’s not fine. None of that was fine, I-”.

[SFX: The Listener trying to leave / being stopped by the Speaker]

[Pause!]

“Wait! Don’t go!”

[Pause.]

“No! I…! I-I…”

[He sinks to his knees, still clinging to your wrist with both hands, fury giving way to anguished sobs]

“...Please-! Please don’t leave me! Not you! Everyone else leaves, but not you! I’m sorry! I don’t… I don’t know why I said something so cruel, please, they’ll eat me alive if I go out there! They’ll look at me like I belong in some traveling sideshow! Please…”

[. . . ]

[He meets your gaze and you hate how honest he is now, that he has nothing left to lose. Now that he’s made sure someone is as hurt as he is]

“...Even you look at me like I’m disgusting, now…”

[. . . Pause.]

“W-What? No, I didn’t call you hideous…”

[Pause.]

“I-I…I didn’t mean you weren’t beautiful! I meant that you’ve never had this pressure on you, your entire legacy isn’t built on being some gifted prince gifted with the looks of the Fae…”

[Pause.]

[He holds your wrist still, and you can see the gears turning painfully in his head]

“...Do you… Do you think I don’t find you beautiful?”

[Pause.]

[He gasps, wounded]

“How can you say that? How can you doubt my love for you when I risked everything just to stay at your side?! I have moved KINGDOMS to make you mine, spun silk into gold to thank you for all you’ve done for me, and you dare to accuse me of not loving you?! Do you have… ANY idea what I’ve done for you?! What I would do for you?!”

[. . . ]

[He stands, forcing you to take a step back as he towers over you]

“...Do you have any idea… what it takes to be what I am…? CONSTANTLY communing with the dead?? Constantly having to play peacekeeper, constantly having to make deals, connive, sneak in the shadows, all while contained to this accursed fucking castle with-!”

[Pause.]

“...You.”

[His voice softens, though it’s strained in anguish]

“...Let me see the wound.”

[Pause…]

“Dove. Let me see the goddamned WOUND.”

[. . . ]

[You hold still as he brushes your hair aside and looks at the cut, expression muddled in guilt, fear, anger and something else you can’t place]

“...It’ll need stitches. Sit down, I’ll fix it for you.”

[. . . ]

[SFX: The Listener sitting / him prepping a suture]

[He sits, cleansing the wound with a quick spell before he starts to stitch the skin. His tone has evened out again - apologetic. Walking a tight rope of control]

“...I am sorry. You know I’m sorry, right?”

[Pause…]

“...You know I think you’re beautiful, don’t you? Just because the pressure is on me to be better than my brother when the time comes, that doesn’t mean I don’t think you’re beautiful.”

[. . . ]

“...You don’t believe me.”

[Pause…]

[He lets out a bitter noise]

“What do you want from me…? I’m a Prince. You’re some little gardener that got trapped in this castle to tend to me until my twenty-fifth birthday, and you’ve done a fine job. Do you want me to mourn the childhood you sacrificed? Do you want me to heap praise unto you for your fine meals, and your tender care, and those sad, pining little looks you give me when you think I’m not looking? Do you want me to prolong your agony by letting you think your fantasy could ever be real…?”

[. . . ]

[He breaks at the same time you do, continuing his stitches as sobs wrack his body]

“I’m sorry… I’m sorry you love me. I’m sorry… I don’t mean to hurt you, I don’t want to!”

[P-Pause]

“It’s not your fault! We’re all the other has ever known… You gave up everything to make sure I didn’t die, and I… I’d do anything to make it so this life wasn’t agony for you…”

[SFX: More stitches]

“...I have my meeting with my family tonight. You’ll be free soon. Free to go and find someone who can love you, and cherish you, and not scare you so badly that you tremble in the night… There are plenty who would love you. You have to trust that. They’ll love you without you feeling like you must sneak a simple head pat in the night to help mend your broken heart.”

[. . . ]

[. . . ?]

[He takes a breath, finishing his work]

“...I don’t love you. For your sake, you need to know in your heart that I do not love you, and never will…. Please. Can you do that for me?”

[. . . P-Pause.]

[He sobs harder, forehead resting against yours for a moment as you both lie to to the other]

“I’m sorry… I’m sorry, I’m sorry, I’m so, so, sorry…!”

[Pause…]

[The two of you share a bittersweet kiss, just as brief, before he forces himself to stand]

“...I need to prepare for the carriage that they’ll send to fetch me from here. Once the meeting is done, and they’ve done their final test, whatever it is… You’ll be free.”

[. . . ]

[He draws a shaky breath, forcing himself to be stoic]

“...Dove?”

[. . . Pause?]

“...Thank you for… For being my everything, these twenty odd years we’ve been together. I… I promise, I’ll find a way to show you gratitude, once I survive this night.”

[. . . Pause.]

[He looks wounded but you hear the infernal carriage pull up outside the castle. The fiery footsteps of the Dullahans echo in the lake surrounding the castle and rattle the old trees in the forest barely clinging to life]

[SFX: The arrival of the Dullahan]

[...Pause.]

“...Yes. It sounds like it’s time.”

[He takes a breath, checking your forehead once more before he turns toward the door and watches the magical seal finally lower]

[SFX: The seal breaking]

“...Wish me luck, I suppose. This… Our time together is almost over.”

[...Pause.]

[He gives you a weak smile. The complex tangle between the two of you is so heavy all he can manage is a quiet:]

“Be safe.”

[-before he goes to meet his destiny]

[SFX: His footsteps fading away / the Dullahans departing]

[Note: If you want to foreshadow act two, SFX: footsteps approaching the castle shortly after his departure]

[You sit and wait, not knowing how the night will end. You can only pray that all of his torment, the many, many times his mind has been broken, will be worth it. You’re so lost in thought that you don’t even realize someone else is there with you…]

[Fade out]

---

[Fade in]

[Scene re-opens in the Infernal Court]

[Sybil is carried by the headless transport to the Kingdom of the Underworld, a castle of ice surrounded by black, molten obsidian and bone]

[SFX: General royal dinner ambiance]

[He is led through a castle he has never seen past familiar portraits and whispering servants of long-dead conquerors. Eventually, he is sat at the royal table along with his father, the Grand Reaper, and his brother, Boros]

[B] “Sybil! The Fae genes certainly did you a lot of favors, hm?”

“Mmh… Boros? Is that truly you, big brother?”

[SFX: General chatter / dining]

[Boros sips his wine, smiling genially]

[B] “Indeed. They’ve already sat your chalice out for your final test. Such an interesting flame color… As if it can’t decide what color it wants to be.”

[Sybil eyes the chalice and then the empty throne]

“Where is Father…?”

[B] “Ah, he’ll join us shortly. He’s waiting to see what color the flame will change. Mine has already turned a quite pleasing obsidian, as you can see.”

[Boros gestures to his goblet]

“Yes, I can plainly see… Do you think you can find it in yourself to explain what these chalices and flames have to do with anything? I’ve spent over twenty years preparing for any kind of spell exam, monster battle, simulacrum, paradox… any test that Father might throw at us.”

[Boros surveys him calmly]

[B] “It sounds like you over-studied, dear… The final test is a simple exploration of your character, and your command over the soul bound to you during your ‘studies’.”

[Pause-Fill SFX: More dining / the fire shifting]

“...The soul bound to…? Do you mean Dove?”

[Boros muffles a laugh behind his hand]

[B] “Oh, you named it? Oh, that’s adorable… They’re just little humans no one would miss, dear… In order to command Death, one must be able to utter a command to a soul and have it followed without question. If I tell mine to jump off a cliff, they will, and their devotion to my power paints a most beautiful, ruby red flame… See?”

[SFX: The fire flickering]

[Pause]

“...I was not instructed to command them to do anything… You do not mean that literally, do you?! You don’t expect me to tell them to leap to their death??”

[Boros waves him off, nonchalant]

[B] “Oh, Heavens no! Goodness…”

[Sybil begins to exhale]

[B] “Father knew you wouldn’t have it in you to utter the command. I did it for you, don’t worry.”

[SFX: The sound fading out of the room]

[He turns to his brother, expression set in silent horror]

“...W-What… What command did you give them.”

[His brother takes a moment to finish his drink, unbothered at the growing aghastness of the court around them]

[B] “A very simple one, dearest Sybil. ‘Stay’. Like a dog. And when they knelt in the doorway obediently, I tossed a torch inside…”

[He mimics the motion coldly, the memories of the fire reflected in his eyes]

[B] “-and shut the door. In order to truly ascend as a Necromancer, to inherit your final gift, you must sacrifice the soul most cherished to you. Of course, their soul isn’t bound to me. They could simply have chosen to have stood and escaped the castle, sparing their own life.”

[SFX: Another sip as the court mutters in horror]

[B] “But your flame turned blue… The command was obeyed. You have successfully ascended, little one.”

[He toasts to him, and the court follows suit in muted horror]

[B] “Congratulations.”

[SFX: Sybil using dark magic to teleport away]

[Sybil stands and vanishes before Boros can finish the sentiment. The calm of the castle transitions immediately to a raging forestscape]

[Fade out from SFX: Court / Castle ambiance to Fade In SFX: A castle burning]

“No…!”

[He races through the snow, stumbling several times as his only home for decades burns before him. He mutters spell after spell under his breath to tame it, to clear the smoke, to save the structure, to do anything]

“DOVE!”

[Note: The sheer emotional devastation this guy would be feeling is probably best left to improv. He’s quite literally lost everything he’s ever known / loved]

[His arms fall around what’s left of you. The little skeleton still knelt at the door like a faithful dog, awaiting its cruel master. His screams are primal, incoherent, shaking the entirety of the forest more than the fire itself ever could]

[SFX: The castle crumbling quietly, now that the fire has died]

[...but there’s nothing left of you to save. You were loyal to the painful, painful end. Some part of you lingers - your soul, you suppose, watching him cradle your body and scream so hard that blood flecks on the soot and snow around the life you had built with him]

“I-I… I didn’t know… Why?! Why would they do this to you, an innocent?! What more proof could they need of my willingness to go to the most depraved depths of the Seven Hells to be a proper Prince?! Oh, my poor Dove… The pain you must have felt, all of that to die for a fool too cowardly to tell you his true feelings…!”

[. . . ]

“...I loved you. I never told you that… Did I? I thought they’d hurt you if I… And here I am, ever the fucking fool…”

[. . . ]

“...No more.”

[The Reaper awaiting you pauses, as if He cannot believe what he is hearing]

“...They want me to join their ranks of profound, powerful necromancers? Then so be it. I renounce my faith. I renounce my crown. I renounce my humanity… I renounce my Fae blessing. All of it, I will give to seize you back from the depths you’ve been taken to…”

[. . . ]

[SFX: The forest growing eerily still]

[The Reaper holds out his hand once more, almost urging you away from Sybil]

[. . . ]

“...I’ve been working on a spell for you for so long now… I knew if I told you about it, you’d be horrified. Offended, rejected, but… What is left to lose now that I’ve lost you already…?”

[He rests a hand over your body’s skull, power surging around him as he murmurs:]

“Paradisum simulacrum”.

[SFX: The Listener’s soul being teleported elsewhere]

[Before you can react, before even the Reaper can react, your soul is elsewhere. The world around you is beautiful, lush with fruit and vegetation you’d only read about in books. A cottage stands near a river and birds chirp quietly]

[SFX: The above]

[You hear his voice speak throughout the world as if it were the wind itself]

“...It will take time for me to reconstruct your body, my love. I cannot have your soul taken away during that time… So, I built this little pocket dimension over years and years of careful preparation. I never knew if or when I might need it… But I knew I could never truly be without you… Even if I had to hide you away here.”

[Pause!]

“Shh… It will all be fine now, my love.”

[The emotion in his voice is gone. He’s snapped beyond a point of return, and you realize with terrifying clarity you truly were the one thing holding his sanity in check]

“I’m going to burn this world to the ground for you… And rebuild it so that it is a fraction as beautiful as you are. Your world is within my locket, we are always together, now.”

[Pause!]

[His laugh answers, broken, jagged and mournful in one tempest]

“I know, I KNOW, I’m a terrible liar! I spent so many years convincing myself I could live without you, trying to do the noble thing! But… But now they’ve removed everything reminding me of my humanity… They wanted a Fae King, capable of the most powerful necromancy the world has ever seen?!”

[SFX: The clouds swirling / raging above]

[The clouds above briefly turn storm-like, almost taking his visage]

“THEN THEY SHALL HAVE HIM! AND I, THEIR TERRIBLE, TERRIBLE MISTAKE, SHALL FINALLY HAVE YOU AS I’VE ALWAYS WANTED! NO MORE LIES! NO MORE HONOR! JUST A TIDAL WAVE OF BODIES UNTIL WE CAN EMBRACE AGAIN!”

[Pause-!]

[You try to plead for him, but he’s gone. The world… His world… is quiet around you]

[SFX: Fade out on the Simulacrum, as desired]

[To be continued?]

---

Note: Um-

You go over to hang out with your best friend after a long day and you just want to relax. You adore him. He’s a sweet guy, who has always been by your side. You just wish he felt the same way about you. He’s happy to see you and he also coincidentally has a surprise for you. 

Approx 1200 words 

Any of my scripts can be genderbent. 

Minor adjustments are fine, just as long as the story remains the same.

There are sound effect descriptors throughout, but feel free to use whatever effects you wish, if any. 

Please, simply credit my Reddit @RomantasyWriterGirl in the description.

I would love to hear if someone fills this script! So please, post the link in the comments and I will listen, like, comment, and share it over my social media platforms!

Link to script:

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1lYz9FjL-AkcZZ-D8cWGBVOAv3HLOMto7IW4uNIscbAI/edit?usp=sharing 

Please let me know if the link isn’t working.

https://youtu.be/EUDm5XZYOAc?si=dK0M-ziHiZypt2ZP