It had been a few days until the two girls had picked up their bedtime reading. Lucy's mother had to work the grave yard shifts, and Lucy's father was no longer in the picture, so she was left with her babysitter, who was rather elderly, and couldn't see two inches in front of her. So, Lucy was left to wait until her mother no longer had to work such long nights. She would have took a peek at the story, trying to decipher the words, but it was better when the soothing voice of her mother read to her, keeping her safe and warm within their own little world. These nights were the best, and Lucy had to cherish them, or else they might disappear. She wouldn't want that.

The two were now sitting side by side, Lucy under the covers and staring at the page that said “Chapter Two” in swirling letters and had a lovely illustration of a castle high up on a mountain with glistening colors and a waterfall cascading down the side of the mountain. Lucy wished that she could live there. It was so pretty, and she loved the colors. She could also see little tiny people and carriages going up to the castle on the dirt rode. Maybe when she grew up she could live there and have wonderful parties and dances. Then everyone will love her. She loved making people happy.

“Is Kurt in one of those fancy carriages, Mommy?”

“No, I don't think so. Blaine might be though. I think we'll just have to read to find out.”

Lucy perked up at that, sitting up straight and leaning up against her mother, staring intently at the page, waiting for the voice of her mother to begin.

“The royal parties were always a big hit in the city, bringing joy to those who could attend, and envy of those who couldn't. There were fireworks and bright lights that could be seen for miles. The honored guests would always arrive in horse-drawn carriage with their family crest placed on each door, and the horses would have a crest placed on their saddles. The workers at the parties would arrived first, pulled by merchant carriages, full with cabbages and other food that could be delivered to the chefs. There was always hay as well, which disgusted Kurt, for he went straight towards the bathroom to wash at least a bit of the revolting smell off his person. Then the routine would continue as the chefs and cooks gave him his assignments, which dishes to take out and when. It's how it went with all the waiters. They were always there an hour before any of the party guests arrived, so they could be fully prepared and take their positions. The bouncers would be positioned at the front entrance, and the guards spread out through the castle, in case anything were to stir up. This was a time of celebration, yes, but there could always be a threat of some kind. Just last July, in the city of Huntingfall just a couple hundred miles over an assassination attempt was made on the King during one of their small get togethers. Kurt couldn't blame them. The King was tyrannical being, not caring one ounce of his citizens. All of his people were under corruption, even the high class beings who tried their best to stay out of such matters. All the King cared about was how much gold was in his vault. Even his own wife had a deep hatred for the man.”

“Mommy, how could she hate him? Aren't they married?”

“Yes, they are married. Maybe they don't love each other.”

“How could they not love each other? I thought you being married meant that you were supposed to be happy with each other forever. That's what Sherman at school said. He said his mommy and daddy were very happy.”

Lucy's mother smiled down at her daughter. Who knew a five year old could know so much about life?

“Yes, I guess you're right. Maybe you'll learn one day why they don't love each other, because I don't have an answer for it. I think we should continue reading though.”

Lucy nodded eagerly and looked back at the pages, her mother continuing.

“The King and Queen of their land, however, were loved by all the people. They donated their gold to the poor and orphan homes, they were kind to everyone who came upon them, and they were brave souls, spreading courage throughout the land. No one dared touch their wondrous city, and even though the lower level was still struggling, they were trying to become prosperous. They had good shipments, and crimes were held to a minimum. It was hard to hate the royal family after all they tried to do for the land. Of course, there were always the select few who held resentment against them, and had many plans to take their lives, through poison or a hired assassin. Luckily tonight wasn't one of those nights like the ones in Huntingfall.

The guests were soon arriving, the carriages coming to a halt and the guards checking every crest. Kurt was currently in the ballroom, waiting at his position, taking a few peeks out the window, watching the carriages pull up. He saw the bouncer pull out the guest list. Each name had the crest stamped up to them, so they knew how to address each family. The families made their way into the ballroom, each one announced by a booming voice an followed by clapping by the audience. The ladies were dressed in glorious ball gowns, adorned with jewels along the hem line and in their hair, with simple pearl earring. Some of them wore sapphire earrings, others rubies. There was one lovely green and tan dress adorned with emerald jewels, and a wreath of small flowers in her hair. Guests sometimes liked to dress in co ordinance with the seasons. Most of the masks were plain and simple, black with few colored accents. Some were over decorated, Kurt thought, with feathers and bright jewels that distracted from the overall attire. Of course, there were the masks that were made just right, with delicate hands and perfect accents. The masks of the men were of course, rather simple, fitting with either their family if they were young, or with their wives. It was a way to decipher who belonged to which family, however Kurt familiarized himself with every face and name with his previous shifts. He possibly knew everyone by heart, and the masks made no difference. He saw the way everyone walked, their level of posture, and of course the eyes. No mask could shield a person's eyes. That's what his mother had always told him. Each family in the land had a certain look to their eyes, whether it be color or shape.

The Pierce family had a lovely teal color, accenting all their features. They were a family of such life and joy, that Kurt loved hearing stories of their adventures. Their daughter, Brittany, although seeming to be not the brightest child, wanted to have a dancing career, performing at the theater which was next to the Bards College. Her choices were frowned upon most, but her family was always there for support. Ladies were supposed to be dignified, respectable people who were always there for the husband. Not off on some roadshow where they will certainly expose themselves. It was the way it was, but the family still had a respectable reputation, despite their daughter’s disobedience in the art of ladyship. No one could touch such an innocent girl.

There were other families, such as the Fabrays, Jones, both of the Chang families, the Summerdales, Hiltings, Darlings, Trafulgas, and many others. There were also the Andersons, a family that Kurt wasn't all to familiar with. They were a family of secrecy, not wanting to make anything public. All Kurt knew was that the father was part of the court and his wife often assisted him. He also knew they had two children, both male, but other than that, he was left in the dark. He knew they were respected, and close with the royals in a friendship that lasted generations. They were a family that didn't like to be produced in a horrid way that would smuggle their reputation. Kurt just thought of them as stuck up.

The guests filed in, music playing in the background as everyone conversed amongst one another. They royal family was yet to be seen by the public eye. Kurt was walking around, asking if people wanted any hors d'oeuvres or some champagne. Mostly the people just took the champagne, as always. The younger ones had sparkling apple cider made fresh, when the parents didn't permit them to have the 'grown up' drink. It was an easy process, and soon enough, when he went back to his station, the royal family had arrived. They received the most applause when announced, and were welcome with open arms into the celebration. There was a daughter, her younger brother, and the youngest daughter which was only the age of seven. She was probably the youngest here, but everyone loved listening to her wild fantasies. She was usually the life of the party, and everyone crowded around to speak to the little angel. Her elder siblings were usually with their friends, trying to find ways to get out of the party. Tonight, however, everyone stayed, and had a wondrous time, Kurt included. The brunette was able to watch the Steward. Will Shuester was the name he went by, and for some reason people looked to him for constant advice. Kurt never understand that, thinking that his advice was drab and gray, followed by rules that were already placed. When the man retires, Kurt will make sure to be there to take his place. He has been hearing rumors of the man's retire to be set in the next year or so, enough time to build his way to the top. It's all he wants after all.

“Hello, my dear little Kurt. How are you this evening?” A woman's voice came out of the crowd, approaching him, caring another tray. Rachel Berry, a peculiar one. She would do anything to make her way to the top, but it's been on her, considering her family's ways. Having two fathers looking after a child is quite frowned upon in this society, and the Berry family was knocked down to middle-class. Rachel was quite furious, and wanted to start a petition on the matter, but the citizens were either to spiteful, or to afraid to change the rules. Kurt heard a rumor that the Anderson father was the one that passed the law that anyone that was heard to be gay would be moved down to a befitting level. He wanted it to be lower-class for everyone, but someone, he doesn't quite know who, intercepted him. They made it middle-class for everyone, unless you were middle-class. Then they would be moved to the lower section of the middle level. There are levels within levels, and the lowest section was the border line between the beggars level. It's all quite confusing, but it works. It's probably why Kurt has kept his sexuality a secret to only a select few people, because he didn't want to make his family endure such torture. They accepted him though, including his father who was a well known merchant. He was proud of his son, but he didn't go boasting about it to all his clientele. He knows that it's important to his son to keep such a thing a secret. Rachel Berry knows. Rachel knows everything about anything. Well, that's what she says. The girl is quite oblivious to many things.

“Oh, same as ever.”

“Trying to find a way to become the lovely royal pet? I don't see why you even bother.”

“I'm not anyone's pet.” Kurt spat at her. He honestly didn't know why she made such accusations. Oh, wait, he does. Kurt has this goal to be better than her, and she knows it. Everyone does, and they are at competition with each other. They both want to be well known, and she's known in such a horrid way. The girl is honestly trying to build back up her reputation, trying to fight the bigotry hate she's been getting from onlookers. The fighting is just pulling her further down. “And besides, it's not like you're not looking for a job her yourself, instead of serving everyone.”

Rachel scoffed at him, but he knew he was right. Rachel even agreed with him at some points. “Everyone knows I want to be the royal entertainer, it's no secret. I live to entertain.”

“If you wanted to entertain so much, why don't you just become the court fool. I think you'd be perfect for the job!” A deathly glare was directed his way, but there was teasing in there. They were at each others throats, sure, but they could be friendly and civilized at the best of moments. It was how they could build tolerance within their relationship. Competition, with a friendly flare. It was the perfect mix in their eyes.

Rachel moved to stand next to him, moving a stray hair behind her ears. The look on her face told that she was disappointed her hairdo wasn't completely perfect. It made no appearance in their next conversation. “So, see anyone that appeals to you?” She spoke in a low whisper, one so low that he had to strain his ears just to catch the last few words. It was a delicate topic, one not to be discussed in a public place. He shouldn't be so cautious though. People were out of ear-shot, and not many people pay attention to the busboys and busgirls unless they have a special request or just want another glass of champagne. Kurt spoke in the exact same whisper.

“No, not yet. The night is still young though.” He smiled down at her, and she smiled back. Pretty soon Rachel was called back to her section, and Kurt was left to serve alone yet again. A couple of hours passed before anything interesting happened, the two boys never once crossing paths. The ballroom was rather large after all, and Kurt couldn't serve everyone. That's the reason for sections.

Soon, a toast was to be made, said by the beloved King. All chatter ceased to listen, Kurt staying near the back, hidden in shadow.

“Everyone, everyone!” The tapping of glass. “I'm so glad that all honored families could make it to this wondrous masquerade ball. Merging of the families was needed, and the royal family and court were glad that it was possible! It's lovely to see all your bright faces together, and having a fun time. We are glad that our land is only touched by little corruption, and that we continue to prosper. So drink, and continue to be merry. The dancing will begin in a short moment.” Applause rang out, and then everyone began to move to get into the right positions to begin the dancing, glasses and plates being taken to the kitchens. It was nice to breath for once, as Kurt made his way to put the dirty dishes into the sink, later to be washed by the many servants in the castle. He heard the loud booming of music above and the clatter of feet. It was getting a bit stuffy in the kitchens, and he really didn't want to go back to the ballroom, for he was not needed. The boy decided to go out to the royal gardens, to get some fresh air. The staff was allowed small breaks whenever they so choose, and Kurt thought this the right moment He saw Rachel and the rest of the staff go back to the ballroom. He was sure to be alone in his leisurely walk.

Kurt was now walking around in the gardens, grateful for the cool night air, leaving his mind to clear. He sat down on a stone bench lined by an array of flowers. His mother would have loved this place. She always had a knack for gardening, from what Kurt can remember. There were always flowers in the flower boxes outside of their home, always kept tidy and neat, the sweet aroma filling their home. He always loved when his mother planted white roses, for he loved their purity and innocence. At the moment he was messing with the petals of one of the delicate flowers, when he heard a voice come towards him. He looked up, stopping the motions that he was making with the soft petals.

“Oh, I thought I would be alone. Terribly sorry to bother you. I'll just be leaving.”

There was a boy who looked around his age in front of him, with a simple mask, and clothing that befit the one of a family of wealth. His hair fell in messy curls that seemed to be trying to be kept tamed by a bit of gel. His eyes, now his eyes were a bright hazel, becoming even more lively by the twinkling lights above them. He was breath taking, and he didn't even know the boy's name. It was strange, to be in the presence of one of wealth when he didn't have a clue as to who this person was. And Kurt knew possibly everybody.

“Oh, you are no bother.” The words escaped him before he had chance to stop them. Kurt was captivated by this mystery person.

“Well, in that case, I guess I will stay.” The boy made to sit on the bench across from Kurt, and the brunette got a better look at his face. His eyes were the most drawing feature though, and he just couldn't look away. “So, what's your name?”

“Kurt.”

“It's a pleasure to meet you Kurt. I'm Blaine.” He made to stretch out his hand, and the brunette didn't have another thought before he gave it a firm shake. Blaine's hands were rough, unlike his soft and smooth ones. However, it was warm, and Kurt didn't want to let go. His senses told him he should, so he did, going back to messing with the flower, but still keeping his eyes on Blaine.

“So, Blaine, what draws you from the party to be out here in the royal gardens?”

“I could ask you the same thing.” Blaine flashed him a gleaming smile, and Kurt couldn't resist but to smile back.

“It's rather loud and suffocating in there. I needed some air, that's all. And you?”

“Pretty much the same reason. My older brother was suffocating me with his drawling on and on about the history of how the land came to be. I've heard the monologue a million times or so. I decided it best to come out here and look where I am. Enjoying the company of a fellow like me.”

“And how are we alike, Blaine?”

“We both don't want to face what is in there.” He motioned his head to point towards the castle, where the ballroom is. A couple guards were watching the two boys, a typical motion, for the security had to be alert of everything. Kurt turned his attention back to Blaine. The other boy was staring at him with intent focus, and it made Kurt uneasy.

“Well, I don't have much time to stay out here. I have to go back to my duties.”

“Are you one of the food carriers?” Kurt nodded, ashamed that he had such low a status at this party, while Blaine was one of high honor. “Well, the chef's food is delicious, if I say so myself. I'm glad that they have chosen such great staff to handle the delacacies.” Kurt could feel the red rising to his cheeks, and looking down at the ground to hide the blush. He could see out of the corner of his eye the pocket watch that was now in Blaine's hand. It was a simple golden one, but there was a design that he couldn't quite make out on the inside. Blaine quickly snapped it shut and placed it back in his coat pocket.

“Well, can you take a walk with me before you go back into the ballroom.”

Kurt thought it over, thinking about how much time he had before they would be yelling at him to come back in and tend to the guests. He hesitantly nodded, and they both stood, walking in the opposite direction of the castle, Kurt leaving the rose on the bench.

“So, Blaine, which family to you reside in?” Curiosity took over, since it was gnawing at him to know the heritage of this boy.

“I thought the staff had to know all the family names. At least, that what my father had told me.” There was a joking edge to his voice that Kurt couldn't help but smile. It's been awhile since he's actually smiled in such a way that wasn't forced. It was nice, but the twisting in his stomach made him uneasy. Hopefully nothing is revealed to the still mysterious Blaine. “Some family names are shrouded in secrecy. Not all staff knows how to address some of the people attending at the moment.”

“Well, if you honestly must know, I come from the long line of Andersons. It's nothing to boast about.”

Well, that answered one of Kurt's questions. He knew the name of one of the son's of the Anderson family now, which was more than he could have asked for. But that meant that this boy's father was the one that shunned Rachel's family from the high court. Stupid really. But what did Blaine mean that it was nothing to boast about?

“Why aren't you proud of your heritage. Your family is respectable, and you have many generations of people that have been close friends with the royals. That's a great honor to hold.”

“You may be right, but if you knew anything about my family, you would understand the situation that I am in.” Kurt couldn't ask anymore, for a clock tolled the hour of ten, which meant that he should be returning to attending to the guests They were on a balcony now, looking over the valley. He could see all the way to the edges of the lower level and just over the rolling hills beyond. It was a truly beautiful sight. “Sometimes, I wish that I could get away from it all, go to a new city and start over. That is my plan, after all.” Kurt looked at him with bright, wondering eyes. This boy was shrouded in such mystery, but he had no time to return his statement. He must get back, make a good impression that he was serious about his work. “I must be off. I have people to tend to with my fantastic people skills.” Blaine smiled at that, and they shook hand. Just before Kurt could walk away, however, Blaine asked another question. “When will I be able to meet with you again?” Kurt thought it over in his mind. No one ever stepped foot out of their own levels, except for some of the carriers for the Royal family to deliver the donations to the lower levels. It was a strange predicament, and parties were only held every six months. They may never cross again, now that Kurt thought about it. It was quite strange, but Kurt just answered with a simple, “I don't know. We will see.”

“Well, if we never meet again, Kurt, I would just like to say that you have been great company to me. May our paths cross again, if destiny so wills it.” With a curt bow, they both stared at each other for a moment longer, before Kurt turned and walked back towards the castle. A guard approached him, one that he knew as David Karosfky. They used to be acquainted at school, until David moved onto becoming one of the royal guards. They were of no way friendly with each other. Mostly people would call Karosfky Kurt's tormentor, the school bully if you must. Kurt held in the sneer that he wished to show the boy. He wished he could spit at the boy's feet, but he withheld, and they only looked at each other before the question was asked. “What were you doing with Mr. Anderson, servant.” Servant. He was in no way a servant. He wished he could claw the boy's eyes out with his own finger nails. “We were only conversing for a short time before I took my leave, that is all.” His eyes told the truth, and that was enough for the guard to let him pass. He traveled back into the ballroom, where dancing was still being held. He walked over to Rachel.

“Oh, there you are. I was wondering where you had gone off to.”

“I just needed some air, dear.”

“Well, you took much longer than usual. What kept you? Did you meet someone?”

Kurt nodded, and Rachel resisted the urge to jump up and down and clap her hands. Instead, she had a blinding smile, looking up at her friend with such knowing that Kurt couldn't help but smile back.

“What was his name?”

“Blaine.”

“One of the Anderson boys?” Kurt nodded. Rachel knew everyone in the royal families, for she used to be one. “He is rather charming, isn't he?” A whisper, for this was delicate conversation, that shouldn't be heard by others. Another nod.

“When will you two meet again? I know that this meeting can't be your last.”

“Oh, but that is where you're wrong Rachel. This meeting was probably the last we shall every see each other again.”

“There are always other parties.” Rachel drew on a look of sadness, but there was a flicker of hope. Kurt looked down at his friend, drawing his voice to a whisper. “He spoke of leaving, and I am most sure by the time that another celebration rolls around, he will be long gone.”

“You're wrong.”

“How would you know that, Rachel? He's shrouded in mystery, you even said that yourself when you first came to us.”

“Destiny is a funny thing, Kurt. It has a way of intertwining the most opposite of lives. I know that you two will be meeting again, and I hope it's very soon. Don't give up on him.”

Kurt decided not to counter the argument, and instead began to think the words over in his head. Destiny. Fate and destiny have done nothing but scar the path Kurt walks, and he spits the ground that the two walk on. Maybe the universe was trying to tell him something, though. Maybe their lives would cross again, in the most unsuspected of ways. It would be nice to have a longer conversation with the boy. Even tell him his last name. There were things that needed to be explained, but maybe things should just unravel.

Unknowing to Kurt, the two lives will cross. Time is a silly thing as well, and the two will learn this. Time will bring the two together, in more ways than one.