Queen Leah's fuchsia neck piece dazzled in the early sun's rays, that shone through the arch window facing her four poster bed. She smiled down at her newborn baby that nuzzled against her beating chest.

"Oh Aurora.."

Aurora's eyelashes fluttered, revealing the pools of bright blue that were her glimmering eyes, her fragile hands rested under her chin and her fair skin glowed a warm pink. Not a moment later, King Stefan rushed in, to his wife's aid, he pulled her in for a warm embrace before stroking her light head. A crystal tear of happiness trickled down Leah's narrow face, past her angular cheekbones and over her pursed lips.

~

Loud, were the trumpets and drums that sounded through the ancient castle; not a sad face could be discerned in the cheering crowds, or so it was thought. Transported down an isle of flourishing flower petals, in a golden carriage - fit for a princess, was Aurora. She rocked in it's pink, cushioned interior, bundled in animal fur. Ahead of her were her parents, their hands linked, presenting their unbreakable bond.

..But every bond is breakable.

In the welcoming hall, lit candles hung serenely from the chandeliers, over the long dining tables that the servants continued to stack with food and wine. From garlic and rosemary induced lamb, vibrant vegetables picked from the royal garden, that were seasoned and baked  to cherry tarts, pies and sweet and savoury custards - barely any of the wood was visible under the platters. Whilst the room buzzed with discussion and eager preparation for Aurora's christening, Flora, Fauna and Merryweather hovered above the stone floors, their wings sparkling as they brushed together. It seemed they were involved with their own matters. In boomed King Hubert, his fur cape dragging behind him and his son Philip, shyly huddling beside him, his arms crossed over his flat chest.

"King Hubert!" The two kings shared a brotherly hug before Stefan turned to Philip,

"Philip!"

He extended his muscular arms - Philip's chubby cheeks now flushed red. Whilst everyone dined and sipped on the freshly made wine, the little prince - who tried not to - peered at Aurora curiously. After the grand hall was called for silence, one by one a noble man and his wife presented themselves to the royal couple, that rested upon their gilt thrones. Each gift was unique and complimentary. At one point, the King had disappeared from his seat, Leah was unaware of this as her eyes remained fixed on the delightful presents.

Finally, the fairies gracefully made their way to the front. Flora, the tallest and oldest fairy dressed in a red gown, curtseyed in the air before twiddling her wand, "I give Aurora the gift of beauty.." The queen rejoiced at this.

Fauna, an older fairy with dark blue eyes and thin brown hair, bowed her head before them, her green gown brushing softly by her sides, "I give Aurora the gift of song.." Leah clapped her hands together, smiling sweetly. Alas, she was startled to find she could not see her husband. She elegantly turned towards the oak doors in search of Stefan, only to bump into Maleficent. Her eyes were red, carrying grey bags.

"Oh my Queen, forgive me for my clumsiness" her wings dropped behind her back. Leah simply chuckled, bringing her chin back up with her dainty fingers, "You are forgiven..I'm looking for King Stefan," she said, her eyes lighting up at the thought of him. Maleficent clasped her clammy hands together, "I'm sure he'll return shortly,"

"Of course.." Leah's smile faded as she mumbled, a twinge of uncertainty in her voice.

"Come now," her smile returned, holding Maleficent's arm and strolling back into the hall.

Whispers began to build in the audience. Philip remained in his position, cooing in delight beside Aurora.

Merryweather, the shortest and youngest fairy glided over to Aurora in her blue gown, her azure cape flowing swiftly. As she opened her mouth to present her gift, she was interrupted by the loud resonance that emerged from the back of the room. King Stefan marched in, four of his soldiers, shoulder by shoulder, behind him. "Maleficent, I hereby sentence you to the prison chambers for treason against the King," The crowds burst into a scene of gasps and mutters and her fellow fairy friends hovered quickly over, "There must be a mistake my lord,"

"My king, I plead you show mercy!"

Philip, unnoticed, reached into the princess's cot and tucked her in his arms, carrying her away from the commotion.

"No..you don't understand.." Maleficent turned to the Queen, her eyes welling with a sea bed of tears.

"As your King, I command you to release her of her wings," He turned to Merryweather, his features bold under the candle light.

"No!" She screamed, hugging her body.

"I'm sorry.." Merryweather waved her wand reluctantly causing Maleficent's once beautiful wings to droop to, what looked like, dull rags hanging from her back. She sobbed before breaking out, "I love you Stefan! I will have you mark my words, I will eat at your soul until you have nothing, even when I am no where near, our memories will haunt you when you bed your-"

"Enough! Stop this nonsense! Guards.." He retorted, sweat leaking down the side of his head. The guards firmly gripped her petite arms, hauling her away,

"You will take nothing from me!" He bellowed.

"Oh no..I won't be taking anything from you my precious Stefan. You will destroy your own happiness, all the lies and deceit! Lie to your kingdom, lie to your wife but the truth will-" Her voice trailed off as she was taken away, half smiling, her tears still running like a tap down her face.

Stefan opened and closed his mouth, unable to look at his wife, who stood across from him, in the eyes. Leah's heeled shoes tapped frantically out of the hall, surprised to see prince Philip and Aurora on the stone staircase. She stretched a fake smile across her  face to hide the sadness and confusion, "Darling, children!"

"What's going on?" Philip asked, barely balancing Aurora in his small arms.

"Allow me," Leah reached for Aurora, cradling her, she sniffled, "I have no doubt your father is looking for you young one."