judge-claude-frollo-of-paris

[judge-claude-frollo-of-paris]

Frollo did not turn to look at her, but gave a subtle nod in agreement.

Whatever thoughts the guards harbored were swiftly dismissed as the minister strode forward with unwavering confidence. Promptly, judge and gypsy climbed into the carriage. "To the cathedral," he ordered, feeling the vehicle lurch into motion.

"You noticed their looks of surprise, didn’t you?" he remarked, more statement than question. A faint grin played at his lips. "No one expects this."

"It's best we play our roles in public. But, Esmeralda…" He spoke her name with newfound fondness. "I am a man of my word." He glanced out the window, seeing small pockets of citizens cluster the closer they neared the church.

"When we arrive, I will proclaim you have recanted. Renouncing your old ways, you will declare your servitude to the church. The Lord will be your guide, teaching you repentance. It may not be announced outright however, through this you will become an ambassador of a sort. The first of your kind to work alongside church and law." He smirked darkly.

A plan was taking shape as he spoke, each word solidifying his vision as he considered alongside what challenges would come. Frollo looked at her with quiet assurance. "Together, at Notre Dame, we shall work closely. This will be the way until we move forward with further intentions."

@judge-claude-frollo-of-paris continued

A hand staying close to her chest, her eyes fell to the ground. She could sense him observing her, almost as if it was right through her. A part of her was for once afraid to ask… and she didn’t want to ruin her appetite.

Searching in his eyes, she looked for confirmation. For now, she believed him, from all of the layers that were starting to peel off between them, but some of her guard would remain up. God, she prayed this wasn’t a waste of time and she wasn’t digging herself into a deeper hole. One that would eventually lead to her demise.

A brow rose as her emerald eyes simultaneously moved from his eyes and down to the offered lanky hand.

It was too soon….. Too much…

The dancer rose her feet by her own accord and brushed off the dust from her skirt. “No, not yet…” Her hands were kept at her side, away from his…. Still ambivalent of this “…But I’ll follow.” The strength in her legs had found its way back to her, as she stumbled a little, but eventually walked slowly to the cell door. Glancing over her shoulder, she took one last look to where she remained and the vulnerability that exploded out of her. Never again.. She vowed to herself.

Awaiting the door to unlock, her mind began to turn. In a blink of an instant, her life has changed. Whether for the good or the bad, she’d place a bet on the latter.

“I hope you’re prepared to tell others of the news. Especially your men.”

What was she going to tell her people? They’d probably find out before those words could reach her lips.

[judge-claude-frollo-of-paris]

Through the rugged terrain beneath the moonlit sky, Frollo matched her pace, steadying his breath and attempting to calm the rush of adrenaline coursing through him.

"This is an elaborate hideout!" Jacques murmured, his voice filled with awe. "I've never seen anything like it."

A surge of triumph swelled within Frollo. Two victories had been won at once—earning her trust and uncovering the long-sought Court of Miracles. At last, she led him to the cemetery, guiding him toward an unremarkable grave. Were he searching alone, he would have easily overlooked it. The grass was overgrown, the tombstone weathered and forgotten, blending seamlessly into the eerie quiet of the night.

As he watched her small frame push aside the heavy stone marker, his breath caught. The memory of her toned, warm body against him seized his resolve, and a sudden pang of desire shot through him. The fire of the torched seered his cold skin, mocking and reminding him of his weakness. His sin before him, alive and holding out her soft, delicate hand for his to grab. Flinching, he took a step back.

"Wait, Esmeralda…" He began. "Before we go any further, I admit I am having doubts." He cast a wary glance around them, ensuring they were alone before lowering his voice.

"I'm flattered by your trust in leading me here, but what if this doesn't work out - if your people cannot accept me? This is all so well guarded, won't they be upset?" Frollo meant the questions in half earnest. Jacques and any other individual would hesistate before intruding upon the gypsies' sanctuary, but he needed to hear her reassurance.

Choosing to take the risk now, rather than deeper within their lair, he reached up and lowered the hood of his cloak. His disguise was crude but sufficient—he wore a dark haired wig slightly longer than his own, an unkempt beard and mustache obscured his features, with patchy stubble trailing along his jaw. A worn, dark-gray tunic peeked from beneath his cloak, adding to the illusion of a vagabond.

Frollo longed to descend into the depths and see the Court for himself, but he needed to test her perception first. If she could recognize him even now, then the others certainly would. And out here, alone with her, his chances of survival were far better than they would be in the heart of the den.

@judge-claude-frollo-of-paris continued

Innocence, curiosity, and a little bit of nervousness was what she could read past his pupils. It was almost as if there was something sort of strange connection between them.

A sigh of relief was shown in her smile. With her eyes on him, he would always be safe with her. “Good. We’ll leave as soon as you’re ready.”

A little taken aback, she allowed the hug and gave him one in return. It was a little peculiar, but almost felt comfortable and she wanted him to feel just as comfortable.

Nodding her head, she took a seat at the nearby table and observed him as he walked over to the bartender. Clearing her throat quietly, she tucked some loose hair behind her ear. Curiosity struck, wondering what the gift he was giving her.

Squinting her eyes, she tried to get a closer look at the two. There was some exchange of words and perhaps an item, but she was too far away to hear or see anything.

A whiff of freshly baked bread had caught the end of her nose the moment he turned in her direction. It was perfect timing as her stomach started to grumble.

“It’s more than enough. That is very kind of you, Jacques. Thank you.” At least this would give them more energy for the war.

Reaching over and taking one baguette, she tore it in half and offered him a half. “You must be hungry. You’re going to need it.” The dancer munched on her own half and taking a few sips of wine in between.

“But I can’t help be curious about what the two of you were talking about over there. It was quite a long reaction and you seemed to be well acquainted with him.”

[judge-claude-frollo-of-paris]

Frollo scoffed, leaning back in the seat with his hands folded in his lap. "Suppose I had intervened. I stand, the crowd’s jeers silence, and I order his return. The festival then ends at my command.” Frollo hummed, a note of derision in his tone. "It would not change the vile reaction the people had against the boy."

Frollo scrutinized her, sharp and unrelenting. “Your people are to blame for crowning him King of Fools. I recall a certain girl helping him onto the stage. No one would have known he left the tower, not even I, if not for you.”

He despised admitting his own lapse in awareness, but he knew the truth: he had been too distracted by her to stop Quasimodo in time. “I protected him for years, only to see him betray me for fleeting applause. So I did nothing and let him. Am I to blame for not dragging him back at first sight?”

Frollo saw no use dwelling on the issue anymore. Of course, he would never allow such defiance again, but that was a matter for another discussion.

“By your logic, gypsy, you are as much at fault as I am. But it’s useless." His voice cooled as he turned away, bitterly recalling how easily she had turned Quasimodo against him. "It seems I did you more of a favor than myself."

@judge-claude-frollo-of-paris continued

She silently sighed in relief, seeing with her own eyes of Quasimodo’s safety. At least that promise remained thankfully. But it didn’t mean she’d give up trying to persuade him to go against Frollo’s orders and achieve what he had always wanted.

Another silent curse word she faintly whispered under breath, knowing they were traveling back to the place she despised.

Attempting to remain silent was harder than it seemed. She wanted to pretend Frollo was miles away from her, but he wasn’t cooperating with her. “You don’t know him at all…. He’s only afraid to leave because of you. I wouldn’t be surprised if you threatened him or lied to him….” Another thought had popped into her head. “Something tells me you were eavesdropping on our conversation.” Esmeralda would study his eyes and watch for any movement to catch a sign for his lies, while wishing he would just go to Hell where he belonged.

[judge-claude-frollo-of-paris]

"The public's vehement reactions to him that day were exactly what I’ve warned him of since he was a child. The boy chose to test their goodwill and witnessed their disdain firsthand. I have no part in the crowd’s disapproval, nor in the boy’s conclusions."

Frollo watched her from the corner of his eye, feeling the weight of her sympathy for Quasimodo pierce his cold heart. How he longed for her to reflect that same compassion back to him.

"Perhaps you’ll understand when I say the sentiment is mutual," Frollo said, clearing his throat. "The boy is my charge. I have protected Quasimodo and will continue to do so."

The carriage rumbled steadily along, its gentle swaying easing some of his tension.

Clasping his hands in his lap, he turned to her. "You may believe you understand him and I, Esmeralda, but you are mistaken..."

@judge-claude-frollo-of-paris continued

She silently sighed in relief, seeing with her own eyes of Quasimodo’s safety. At least that promise remained thankfully. But it didn’t mean she’d give up trying to persuade him to go against Frollo’s orders and achieve what he had always wanted.

Another silent curse word she faintly whispered under breath, knowing they were traveling back to the place she despised.

Attempting to remain silent was harder than it seemed. She wanted to pretend Frollo was miles away from her, but he wasn’t cooperating with her. “You don’t know him at all…. He’s only afraid to leave because of you. I wouldn’t be surprised if you threatened him or lied to him….” Another thought had popped into her head. “Something tells me you were eavesdropping on our conversation.” Esmeralda would study his eyes and watch for any movement to catch a sign for his lies, while wishing he would just go to Hell where he belonged.

[judge-claude-frollo-of-paris]

Thankful for her dismissal of further speculation, Frollo watched her with eager anticipation. Every moment spent in her presence—each shared space, each fleeting touch—felt like an extraordinary experience. Yet, an apprehension built within him, a culmination of twenty years of longing as they finally approached the elusive Court of Miracles.

He could hardly believe how readily she shared this information with him, trusting him so openly.

As he brushed past her, Frollo gave her arm a brief, grateful squeeze and nodded at her directions.

"It would be better if we traveled closely together," he suggested. "I have not familiarized myself enough with the area to feel comfortable walking more than ten paces apart." Jacques let out a light chuckle.

The streets of Paris were eerily quiet, mostly deserted. The moon hung above, half obscured by clouds, casting a foreboding chill. He knew well where she was leading him, and he felt a surge of frustration for not recognizing it sooner. He had walked this path often. No matter, he reminded himself, inhaling deeply. This time, he would be getting a personal tour.

Indeed, the Lord worked in mysterious ways.

@judge-claude-frollo-of-paris continued

Innocence, curiosity, and a little bit of nervousness was what she could read past his pupils. It was almost as if there was something sort of strange connection between them.

A sigh of relief was shown in her smile. With her eyes on him, he would always be safe with her. “Good. We’ll leave as soon as you’re ready.”

A little taken aback, she allowed the hug and gave him one in return. It was a little peculiar, but almost felt comfortable and she wanted him to feel just as comfortable.

Nodding her head, she took a seat at the nearby table and observed him as he walked over to the bartender. Clearing her throat quietly, she tucked some loose hair behind her ear. Curiosity struck, wondering what the gift he was giving her.

Squinting her eyes, she tried to get a closer look at the two. There was some exchange of words and perhaps an item, but she was too far away to hear or see anything.

A whiff of freshly baked bread had caught the end of her nose the moment he turned in her direction. It was perfect timing as her stomach started to grumble.

“It’s more than enough. That is very kind of you, Jacques. Thank you.” At least this would give them more energy for the war.

Reaching over and taking one baguette, she tore it in half and offered him a half. “You must be hungry. You’re going to need it.” The dancer munched on her own half and taking a few sips of wine in between.

“But I can’t help be curious about what the two of you were talking about over there. It was quite a long reaction and you seemed to be well acquainted with him.”

[judge-claude-frollo-of-paris]

Doubt bloomed in her features, marred by fear. It seemed Esmeralda could not admit to herself a reality in which she turned from her people, Frollo saw plainly. Yet, the gypsies shared a hive mind and it was obvious to him they would cast her out without hesitation—if not to kill her, then to banish her for the sake of their nest's protection.

Perhaps in this way she would be of use to him. If her intentions were true, she would usurp the likes, ultimately leading him to the core.

"Power, justice, control... it will be your duty. In time, they will see you fit. As you intend it. And if they do not," he added coldly, "you shall pass the sentence they are to serve."

Frollo felt a thrill of satisfaction at how events had turned in his favor. He could not pity her remorse; she had everything to gain—she had won. She had conquered not only his heart but also his mind and spirit. Through him, she alone wielded power over the city and all its inhabitants—a feat no one of her kind ever could attain. And yet, he willingly bestowed that power upon her... for both of them.

Twenty long, damned years. The city could burn for all his futile efforts. At last, she was his.

With a gentle touch, Frollo brushed a finger against her damp cheek, lingering for a moment before leading her from the dungeons into the light. Life surged around them, the sounds of Paris bustling on, seemingly unaware of their dark dealings.

"To the cathedral," he commanded his guards as another swung open the carriage door, ready to carry them away.

@judge-claude-frollo-of-paris continued

A hand staying close to her chest, her eyes fell to the ground. She could sense him observing her, almost as if it was right through her. A part of her was for once afraid to ask… and she didn’t want to ruin her appetite.

Searching in his eyes, she looked for confirmation. For now, she believed him, from all of the layers that were starting to peel off between them, but some of her guard would remain up. God, she prayed this wasn’t a waste of time and she wasn’t digging herself into a deeper hole. One that would eventually lead to her demise.

A brow rose as her emerald eyes simultaneously moved from his eyes and down to the offered lanky hand.

It was too soon….. Too much…

The dancer rose her feet by her own accord and brushed off the dust from her skirt. “No, not yet…” Her hands were kept at her side, away from his…. Still ambivalent of this “…But I’ll follow.” The strength in her legs had found its way back to her, as she stumbled a little, but eventually walked slowly to the cell door. Glancing over her shoulder, she took one last look to where she remained and the vulnerability that exploded out of her. Never again.. She vowed to herself.

Awaiting the door to unlock, her mind began to turn. In a blink of an instant, her life has changed. Whether for the good or the bad, she’d place a bet on the latter.

“I hope you’re prepared to tell others of the news. Especially your men.”

What was she going to tell her people? They’d probably find out before those words could reach her lips.

[judge-claude-frollo-of-paris]

Frollo headcanon design thing

Wanted to make my own version of his outfit :)

I added items he already had in the movie but kept hidden or just randomly summoned (Dagger, cape). Plus used a lot of references of period typical outfits and added elements from those that I liked (Belt, bag, necklace, changed the sleeves).

I was also inspired by his version in the 1939 film and also the embroidery on the Tokyo Disneyland (?) costume of him.

Sorry if there’s historical inaccuracies lol I’m no expert

[judge-claude-frollo-of-paris]

“And what exactly is that, dear one?” he replied, a brow arched in challenge. “Quasimodo is neither chained nor confined within the church. If he wished, the boy could leave at any moment.”

He turned his gaze toward the small window on his right, where the orange light of sunset filtered through the tinted glass. Absently stroking the plush fabric of the seat, Frollo continued, his voice languid. “Quasimodo takes great pleasure in ringing the bells, as if the Lord speaks to him through their peals. Leaving them would trouble him immensely. But then again, how could you possibly know this? You have not known him for very long, have you?”

As the carriage rolled along, the creaking of the wheels and the clatter of the horses’ hooves against the cobblestones punctuated the heavy silence between them. A palpable sense of gravitas filled the air, mirroring the weight of the law that the judge so fiercely upheld.

@judge-claude-frollo-of-paris continued

She silently sighed in relief, seeing with her own eyes of Quasimodo’s safety. At least that promise remained thankfully. But it didn’t mean she’d give up trying to persuade him to go against Frollo’s orders and achieve what he had always wanted.

Another silent curse word she faintly whispered under breath, knowing they were traveling back to the place she despised.

Attempting to remain silent was harder than it seemed. She wanted to pretend Frollo was miles away from her, but he wasn’t cooperating with her. “You don’t know him at all…. He’s only afraid to leave because of you. I wouldn’t be surprised if you threatened him or lied to him….” Another thought had popped into her head. “Something tells me you were eavesdropping on our conversation.” Esmeralda would study his eyes and watch for any movement to catch a sign for his lies, while wishing he would just go to Hell where he belonged.

[judge-claude-frollo-of-paris]

The look of delight and awe on the face of this enchanting woman elicited an amused chuckle from him. Was it really this simple bread that brought her such joy? He knew from his work that such mundane things could often mean life or death for those in the lower classes. Yet her reaction transformed everything. A strange pride swelled within him, and his heart stirred with a longing to see her smile again—this time for something he had done. If only circumstances were different… He halted that thought. They would be. She would come to know his truth and accept it in time—if only before his men found them.

Frollo accepted the half loaf she offered, the wooden door creaking nearby as patrons entered, bringing with them a chill that stirred the rich scents of ale and roasted meat. The cool wind whispered an urgent reminder to him that they needed to leave.

“Hungry and exhausted, I must admit,” he said distantly. “I have been traveling all day…” His gaze shifted to the doorway, tension tightening his shoulders.

Alarmed, he noted her puzzled words laced with suspicion. Gulping down the bit of bread he had taken, he set it down gingerly. Sighing, he dropped his shoulders and forced himself to look down, wringing his hands beneath the table.

“It seems the good monsieur was just as intrigued by me as you were at first. Perhaps I’m not the typical man you’d choose for a quiet meal in his establishment…” He glanced sideways, feigning nerves. “Curiosity can make one’s mind race. He hesitated to trade me the bread since I had no money.” Jaques’s tone shifted to one of disappointment and embarrassment.

“I doubt he would have entertained the idea if it weren’t for my association with you, Esmeralda.” He offered her a sad smile. “It seems my luck has turned for the better with you by my side.”

Slowly rising from his seat, Frollo stretched his weary limbs, stifling a yawn. “Forgive me, I seem to be more tired than I thought. Shall we head out?”

@judge-claude-frollo-of-paris continued

Innocence, curiosity, and a little bit of nervousness was what she could read past his pupils. It was almost as if there was something sort of strange connection between them.

A sigh of relief was shown in her smile. With her eyes on him, he would always be safe with her. “Good. We’ll leave as soon as you’re ready.”

A little taken aback, she allowed the hug and gave him one in return. It was a little peculiar, but almost felt comfortable and she wanted him to feel just as comfortable.

Nodding her head, she took a seat at the nearby table and observed him as he walked over to the bartender. Clearing her throat quietly, she tucked some loose hair behind her ear. Curiosity struck, wondering what the gift he was giving her.

Squinting her eyes, she tried to get a closer look at the two. There was some exchange of words and perhaps an item, but she was too far away to hear or see anything.

A whiff of freshly baked bread had caught the end of her nose the moment he turned in her direction. It was perfect timing as her stomach started to grumble.

“It’s more than enough. That is very kind of you, Jacques. Thank you.” At least this would give them more energy for the war.

Reaching over and taking one baguette, she tore it in half and offered him a half. “You must be hungry. You’re going to need it.” The dancer munched on her own half and taking a few sips of wine in between.

“But I can’t help be curious about what the two of you were talking about over there. It was quite a long reaction and you seemed to be well acquainted with him.”

[judge-claude-frollo-of-paris]

The flickering light from a solitary torch did little to illuminate within the cold, rough walls. In the back of his mind, Frollo felt a distant echo of his former self recoiling at the betrayal of his faith. With his hand extended and hers withdrawn, he noted the reversal of their roles. Somehow, it seemed harder for the gypsy girl to accept this new hope blossoming from the abysmal pit of this prison. A low, sweet, yet menacing vibration stirred within him, urging their dark compromise. As fate entwined their paths, he resolved to pursue his course as before.

With a hidden grimace, he let his arm fall back to his side, a smirk curling his lips. “As you wish.”

Eager to escape the cramped confines, Frollo approached the door. He produced a key from his robes, the old rusted lock clicking and turning, heavy iron bars creaking open. Her remark caught his attention, igniting a feeling within him as if she had questioned his prowess as the minister of justice.

Placing the key back in his pocket, he fixed his jaded gaze on her, lips twisting into a sneer.

“To my men and all of Paris, I am the law. They will see justice served and abide by my orders,” he asserted. “Surely, you understand this.”

His dark eyes roamed their surroundings. Shadows clung to the corners, the air thick with isolation. The walls bore scratch marks from previous occupants, silent testimonies of despair and the longing for an end to their torment—many of which he knew all too well.

“You, however…” He paused, his tone light and inquisitive. “I wonder how your people will come to grasp your sudden change of heart.”

The footsteps of patrolling guards echoed ominously through the stone corridor. Time felt stagnant as they lingered, the weight of hopelessness amplifying in the suffocating air.

@judge-claude-frollo-of-paris continued

A hand staying close to her chest, her eyes fell to the ground. She could sense him observing her, almost as if it was right through her. A part of her was for once afraid to ask… and she didn’t want to ruin her appetite.

Searching in his eyes, she looked for confirmation. For now, she believed him, from all of the layers that were starting to peel off between them, but some of her guard would remain up. God, she prayed this wasn’t a waste of time and she wasn’t digging herself into a deeper hole. One that would eventually lead to her demise.

A brow rose as her emerald eyes simultaneously moved from his eyes and down to the offered lanky hand.

It was too soon….. Too much…

The dancer rose her feet by her own accord and brushed off the dust from her skirt. “No, not yet…” Her hands were kept at her side, away from his…. Still ambivalent of this “…But I’ll follow.” The strength in her legs had found its way back to her, as she stumbled a little, but eventually walked slowly to the cell door. Glancing over her shoulder, she took one last look to where she remained and the vulnerability that exploded out of her. Never again.. She vowed to herself.

Awaiting the door to unlock, her mind began to turn. In a blink of an instant, her life has changed. Whether for the good or the bad, she’d place a bet on the latter.

“I hope you’re prepared to tell others of the news. Especially your men.”

What was she going to tell her people? They’d probably find out before those words could reach her lips.

[judge-claude-frollo-of-paris]

Welcome back to tumblr!

[judge-claude-frollo-of-paris]

Hello, sorry to bother you, Im not familiar with tumblr but I wanna read the story you wrote in order, is there any easy way to do it? Perhaps a link or Sth?(I don’t know where to start)

(( Hey there! Thank you for your interest! Each story is given a tag/name. An example: #Halloween thread. They're all different from each other, so any one will start you on a new scenario/story. I believe, once you click on that tag, it'll show all matches to it. You'd then be able to scroll to the bottom to start and then work your way up to the most recent post. Hope this helps! ))

[judge-claude-frollo-of-paris]

The lightweight of her palm on him brought a shiver down his tense body. Concern and care brightened those beautifully jade eyes, piercing into his. She stood so close, he could have easily pulled her body to his, pressed his lips to hers, and hushed those incessant pleas.

Damn this charade. Damn this personality she thought he was. Damn this unfathomable scheme for working as well as it has.

Frollo hadn't intended for his distant viewing to be anything more than that. At least, not without having his men at ready. He needed their awareness of the matter lest his life be lead blissfully down the gallows to certain demise in vain. He needed the court to be discovered at all cost.

Frollo took a glance around the room, noting only the bartender's attention in their direction thus far despite their commotion. Suddenly, an idea occurred.

"Esmeralda, I am humbled by the volume of your generosity." Frollo sighed, lightly covering her hand with his, "You've convinced me. I will go with you."

He went to hug her briefly in appreciation before pulling back, hands holding her arms gently. He looked over to the bar.

"Wait here a moment, if you would. I'd like to purchase some bread for us to take back. It is a small gift, but one I would love to give to thank you." Frollo willed himself to move swiftly away from her in a show of eagerness.

Once at the bar, assuring no one could hear his whisper to the man having taken notice of him approaching, Frollo revealed a red jeweled ring from within his cloak. Watching the man's eyes widen in realization, Frollo rose a finger to his lips to silence him, and quickly stated, "Monsieur Louis, take this. Have a guard send this to the captain. Say: there will be a revolt in two days at dawn. That I am being taken to their court. Prepare for battle, with or without me."

The bartender nervously took the luxurious item from him and gave a subtle nod.

"Good. Now hand me a bundle of bread and go about as you have. Remember the girl but do nothing."

Just as brief as their exchange did Jacques return to Esmeralda, holding out the freshly baked goods.

"I hope it is enough... It was all I could afford."

judge-claude-frollo-of-paris​:

Frollo quirked a brow at her surprising response. The irony illuding her, no doubt. A smile returned in silent agreement.

Just as he meant to leave, she called to him once more. Caught in mid-flight out the door, Frollo saw her own uncertainty war within. A divine figure of beauty in flesh, or carved of marble he could protest, dancing dangerously close to the truth.

 "There is a place I have been resting since I have arrived to the city. But dear girl, I am afraid it is unbearably far and rather unsightly.“ Abashed, Jacques looked away, clasping his hands in front of him.

“Never you mind, it is like any other a nomad must encounter on our journeys,” he gazed back at her in determination. “Nothing can dissuade me from what we have planned for the future, Esmeralda.”

 Frollo, needing to regroup with his men and prepare for what’s to come, feels his mind plead for the unthinkable. A glint of hope that the woman he has pined for fiercely would desire him back. Heart obscuring sanity, an urgency rises by the minute.

There was no thought to it. A man once confident, composed, and brave had shifted into a rattle state. Witnessing this only pained her more than it should have. She didn’t have it in her heart to risk his safety… but what about hers and her peoples? Already, she could hear Clopin scolding her in her ear and wagging that lanky fingered glove at her. The thought only made her cringe. A heavy gulp hesitantly ran down her throat. She was so close to having her prayers answered and couldn’t risk anything getting in the way.

Esmeralda made a rash decision, as she occasionally does, and hurried over to him, making sure they were in ear shot of one another. Catching whatever breath that may have fallen behind, she gently rested a hand on his shoulder.

“I couldn’t bare the thought of Frollo arresting you. Come with me… Please… I have to look out for you. Just like you are with me…” Her tone was soft, but apprehensive. It was obvious by now, she cared for Jacques.

“We can finish the plan there, away from everyone else. You’ll be safe, I swear.”

Even though she was listening to his words, she was trying to persuade him into this.

[judge-claude-frollo-of-paris]

Esmeralda's voice rumbled distantly. The flame's light flickered patterns across bronze skin. Fire embodied, he found himself fervently absorbing. Without her there would be no life, nothing to his existence. So swift did she unravel years of structure, he was left unrecognizable to himself. But evidently, it all became but a smear to the picture she proffered of their future. His body yearned painfully to be joined at her root. Who would deny the entrance into Eden when all he'd known was the treacherous ice of corruption around.

Briefly, noting the stern shift to her words, Frollo whispered compliantly, "As you wish, this I swear."

The elation she provoked in him a heady mixture. Once mind set, he knew no other course. Any and all paths would be trekked to claim her proposed affection. Clearly she could see how far he had dared in ceaseless pursuit.

Frollo felt her pulse at his kiss, a sigh releasing quietly. Eagerly he observed long lashes fluttered prettily against her cheeks, rose lips softened in surprise before forming a tight pout. The spell broken at her withdrawal, he resisted further provocation.

Esmeralda spoke her command and he grinned. Slowly rising back to his feet, Frollo peered down at her a moment before extending his hand to her. With a quirk of a brow, he prompted, "Follow me."

judge-claude-frollo-of-paris​:

She will have to break him, tear down the foundations at the core - fear cornered him from thinking further of the process. All that he once believed traded in for the woman he craved and now worshiped alone - a final decision he felt with absolute certainty of. He would not have it any other way.

Frollo grimly smirked. “The movement of the masses do not solely depend on any humanly force, gathered from experience. Where skills of manipulation are needed over them to do what you intend, I believe you hold potential. Balance your justice, as you become it..“ He wavered. ”..as you have succeeded with me.“

“I will lead them to their demise to know what your love is like…” He whispered, head rising to gaze back at her.

Carefully, he drew closer to her. Her knees now pressing into his chest, he lowered his head onto her shoulder, her scent washing over him. Her breath against his cheek, he brushed his finger tips around her sore wrist, caressing her tender skin.

"Forgive me, Esmeralda.” His deep voice unaccustomed to the raw sentiment he wished to express.

“A proper dinner, alongside some red wine…“ timidly, he brought her hand up, his thumb flickering across her cold knuckles, moving to place a solemn kiss to their scrapes.

The darkness of the dungeon barely lit the Ministers facial expressions and made it somewhat difficult to see.

Esmeralda stared at him blankly. “Perhaps I do and how interesting of you to think so highly of me.” This time she listened to him and took what he had to say into consideration.

“You will swear to that and if I at all believe you are lying, I’ll slice my dagger along your neck.” Although he was talking sweetly to her, she still had her sass within her. “You have such a difficult path to take if you wish to see what my love is like.”

As he drew closer, she could feel the heat radiating off his body. Surprisingly, she made no notion to move, as her caramel skin was starting to warm up.

But his next move was a completely new experience for her and she wasn’t sure how to act. What was love like again? Just to be nice, she shook her head a few times to leave her shoulder empty of any strands of hair.

Her emerald eyes followed his fingers like a hawk. Rotating her wrists slowly, his touch was soothing and her muscles relaxed a bit.

She didn’t realize how tending he was to her wounds. Perhaps a locked door to her heart was slowly starting to open and there was a glimpse of hood just on the other side. He was walking on a thin line and about overstayed his welcomed. The dancer moved her hand away from his grip and secretly tried using her other hand to rub away the kiss.

“You’ll have your servants prepare our dinner. They’ll leave the bottle.” It was required for her to be in a drunken state if she was going to tolerate him the rest of the evening. “I would certainly hope you’re not going to poison me.”

[judge-claude-frollo-of-paris]

Not bothering to address her resistance, the judge began to speculate on the polarity she maneuvered. Nevermind what she felt for him. While no definitive answer could be made, he weighed her heart bled in abysmal earnest for Quasimodo. Their conversation shed clarity to her true visage.

Once the carriage moved forward, she appeared settled in her self barricade. He waited until she broke her silence. 

Frollo chuckled lowly, "The very one." His hands folded neatly over his lap. 

"I gather your visit with the boy went as expected, then?" He feigned pleasantry. "Takes little to sway his kindhearted nature. I know him well."

judge-claude-frollo-of-paris​:

Seeing the girl by the carriage, confidence radiating from her stance, Frollo approached slowly.  She addressed him with a strange familiarity, he noted, likely having spotted him first. He paused a foot of distance between them.

He spoke slow but deliberate. “I never noticed - how expressive you can become, Esmeralda.“ His iron eyes measured her, weighing in what evidence he gathered from the outing. “A lesson in acting, indeed.”

Frollo stepped closer, gazing down at her as he spoke lowly, “A shame, really, to hold back your admirable talents from me.”

The judge tapped against the vehicle, garnering the attention of the driver who rushed down to attend to them.

“I believe you.” He stated, a final glance cast to her in grim expression.

Settled in, a hush falling over them before feeling the jostle of the carriage taking off.

Out of spite, Esmeralda propped a filthy foot onto the carriage, spreading some dirt on the outside.

“Is that so? Well, I’m not surprised, given how you know nothing about me.” Bickering or throwing shots at the Minister was practically fruitless at this point, but she was too stubborn to realize.

Not that she was given anymore room to move, her backside glued itself to the carriage to gather some distance, but ended up dropping her foot and sliding to the side, while ignoring his remark.

Just hold you tongue… Words she kept repeating in her mind. She needed to remain somewhat tolerable in order to get something out of this.

Rolling her eyes, she stepped into the carriage after him, sitting next to the window as usual.

“Don’t tell me you’re taking us back to that hell whole.”

[judge-claude-frollo-of-paris]

Seeing the girl by the carriage, confidence radiating from her stance, Frollo approached slowly.  She addressed him with a strange familiarity, he noted, likely having spotted him first. He paused a foot of distance between them.

He spoke slow but deliberate. “I never noticed - how expressive you can become, Esmeralda." His iron eyes measured her, weighing in what evidence he gathered from the outing. "A lesson in acting, indeed.”

Frollo stepped closer, gazing down at her as he spoke lowly, “A shame, really, to hold back your admirable talents from me.”

The judge tapped against the vehicle, garnering the attention of the driver who rushed down to attend to them.

“I believe you.” He stated, a final glance cast to her in grim expression.

Settled in, a hush falling over them before feeling the jostle of the carriage taking off.

judge-claude-frollo-of-paris​:

Frollo held back a knowing smirk threatening to expose him. He could feel her tension the moment he entered. Yet, he felt his patience bristle at the lengthy good bye, clearly making a spectacle of it.

He stood still, watching her defiantly walk on without him. He kept his face impassive, before walking slowly towards the sorrowful boy.

“Fear not, Quasimodo.“ The judge assured, looking at the wooden figures scattered over the hunchback’s table, noting a couple new additions he had paused mid carving.

“She will return sooner than later. We’ve left a bountiful basket prepared for your supper with the archdeacon. Until our next encounter.“

Quasimodo opened his mouth as if to comment further, meeting his gaze for a split-second, before deciding in the end to nod curtly with a half-hearted ”-yes master.“

Exiting, Frollo kept his head high, stride wide. He shut the door soundly behind him, sitting a moment with his new insight. The boy had become agreeable, the girl had not gone against him, and an alleged love she had for him she told his ward in secret. Anxiety rose within.

He lingered there, his mind jostled out his thoughts to the sound of Quasimodo’s gentle singing. With a deep inhale, he took two steps at a time down the stairs to find Esmeralda.

While the two spent some unagreeable quality time together, Esmeralda picked up the pace and descended down the spiral staircase. Some fresh air without his presence was what exactly what she needed.

The cathedral doors had opened and just across the way stood the parked carriage, where they have left it. Instead of stepping into it, she leaned her back against the door frame with her arms crossed over her chest. To no surprise, the coachman paid no attention to the dancer.

Feeling alone as the gentle breeze brushed through her curls, she pondered in silence. All she could think of was Quasimodo. She hated lying to her friend about her status. Lying was the only way to keep her and her people safe.

Thank god he was safe and doing alright, despite his living situation. He didn’t have to worry about Esmeralda’s safety anymore and could finally live his life. She had prayed at least he would. But whether Frollo was telling the truth or not of returning to the bell tower, she’d see to it herself that she was. Even with the facade, the Judge had to have come to realize she was trustworthy.

Taking in some slow deep breaths, she relaxed a bit, shaking her body, to get rid of that distraction, until an unwelcoming figure meandered over to her. A weary emerald gaze shot up at him, while staying in place.

Silence lingered through the air just for a few short moments until it disappeared.

“You don’t have anything to say about my little act up there? Perhaps you’ve learned a lesson to believe me now.”

[judge-claude-frollo-of-paris]

She will have to break him, tear down the foundations at the core - fear cornered him from thinking further of the process. All that he once believed traded in for the woman he craved and now worshiped alone - a final decision he felt with absolute certainty of. He would not have it any other way.

Frollo grimly smirked. “The movement of the masses do not solely depend on any humanly force, gathered from experience. Where skills of manipulation are needed over them to do what you intend, I believe you hold potential. Balance your justice, as you become it.." He wavered. "..as you have succeeded with me."

"I will lead them to their demise to know what your love is like...” He whispered, head rising to gaze back at her.

Carefully, he drew closer to her. Her knees now pressing into his chest, he lowered his head onto her shoulder, her scent washing over him. Her breath against his cheek, he brushed his finger tips around her sore wrist, caressing her tender skin.

"Forgive me, Esmeralda." His deep voice unaccustomed to the raw sentiment he wished to express.

“A proper dinner, alongside some red wine...“ timidly, he brought her hand up, his thumb flickering across her cold knuckles, moving to place a solemn kiss to their scrapes.

judge-claude-frollo-of-paris​:

Judge Claude Frollo listened to her silence, feeling as though stabbed by her voice alone. It came to a surprise to hear her statement, even more so to see her grab the keys instead of the knife. Truly, he believed she would react to the latter of her choices.  

Immediately his head shot up, stunned to hear her acknowledgment. Wide eyed, mouth ajar, he searched her eyes feverishly, almost angered by how irrational things shifted. He couldn’t bear to hope. How could she see this in him when it was so clouded to his own consciousness? ‘Magic, witchery’ - he felt the voice of alarm rise.

Of course, the power. If only he could throw the burden on her. Taking a deep breath, he could barely brace himself to all the paths now opening.

“This power will always be yours. The city be dammed - I have practically given it up by my actions here alone.“ Frollo huffed in frustration, looking from his jeweled hands to her muddy ones.

“Esmeralda, you have this power through me.” He willed the pause after to tell her the implications.

“.. Be mine, and I will become just as much yours. My position, titles, power, at your disposal. These amendments would take time and calculation to perform, as I am still a figurehead in a stern political sphere, amongst men as rigid to law as my own reputation. But the change you seek will come,” He watched her, resolved to what would come.”..if you’ll have me.“ Daringly, he hoped she could see further into him, them, magic or not.

His sudden jolt baffled her at first. A word wasn’t necessary from him. His facial expressions were quite telling. He too was in shock by her confession, but why question an answer that he longed for? The silence still remained, letting him adjust to the news.

Projecting her demands, she observed him once more for his reactions, knowing this had to be the first time someone of low status had quite the confidence to boldly bark out orders from the other side of the spectrum.

Her eyes softened, falling back down to the weapon. Just to prevent any temptation, she snatched the jeweled dagger and tucked it behind her, out of sight from either of them. Secretly, she intended to keep it to replace the old dagger she had lost back on the streets a few days ago.

Clearing her throat, she rested her head on the wall and tucked a loose piece of hair back behind her hair. Gazing at him with parted lips, she gave a slight nod.

“I’m aware of the power I have through you. Which is why I’m taking leadership from here on out.”

Not from the King, but only the Judge before her. He had to obey and cooperate if a relationship with her was what his ultimate hope was. At this very moment, she felt like a Queen and he was merely her jester, following her every order.

“I believe it’ll take time… but as long as I see some movement from your people, then I’m willing to try…” That was the honest truth and his words and promises seemed believable. It was completely normal for her to still be very cautious around him.

This was his only opportunity.

“Given our past, I can’t confess my love for you like you did…” Her eyes circled to all four sides of the room. “Especially not in this dungeon.” There was nothing that screamed romantic in there.

“I’ve never been in love, but I do think a proper date of your choosing would suffice.” This was the easiest way to determine whether they were compatible or not and she still was a respectful woman after all.