#(( i can't believe its fallen kingdom--

[ellalalala]

🎲

14. A kiss to the stomach

Terms of endearment in Old Norse: Ástin mín - my love, my dear Ljúfr - dear, beloved

Minors DNI

I just needed to see Dainsleif simping really hard 😭

Sunlight never reached the fallen kingdom of Khaenri'ah. There, below the surface, used to live a nation that didn't know the warmth of the sun; making the most of what they had, they adapted to the darkness, used ancient alchemy to bring forth new life.

Dainsleif remembered emerging from the ruins of his homeland and feeling the sunlight on his skin for the very first time. He remembered shunning it, retreating to the shadows until night fell - the only remainder of a nation that once was. The searing heat, foreign as it was, would send waves of pain through his midnight blue skin. Warmth, light - everything that he had once known - had been artificial, but the blinding sun in the sky was anything but.

So he thought until he met you.

Dainsleif believed that he hadn't known true light until he found you. You, whose love brought him to life, awakened parts of him he thought were long erased; whose touch set his skin alight; whose smiles were as lovely as the sunlight that streamed through the curtains. Radiant, warm, wonderful you - Dainsleif couldn't get away even if he tried.

A man deprived of something was not so easily satiated; a man deprived of sunlight would not feel its warmth until it burned him. Such was his nature - such was his vice.

Dainsleif's lips trailed your soft skin, leaving not an inch neglected. Large hands held your waist as though fearing your departure would come with nightfall.

You stood before him half-bare with your back pressed against the wall. There were better places to do this, no doubt, but Dainsleif loathed the idea of letting you go even for a moment. Desire coursed through his body, clouding his senses until all he could see, feel and hear was you.

All traces of rationality had long been overtaken by a desperate craving that only you could satisfy. As it was, he was certain you could feel his hardened cock pressed against your hip.

Dainsleif pulled away from your neck where his teeth had grazed your skin, leaving purple bruises in their wake. One careful look at you served to make his heart swell with adoration.

"Beautiful," he murmured, raising a hand to caress your cheek. "The word itself pales in comparison to you."

He was rewarded with a bright laugh, with fingers curling in his blonde hair.

"That can't be true."

"I would never lie, ljúfr," Dainsleif said earnestly, "not to you."

The corners of your lips tilted upwards in a soft smile, and through Dainsleif's mind ran thoughts he had pondered a million times before: how could someone like you look at him that way when he was no longer fully human? A monster in the making; did he deserve your smiles, your tenderness?

Does it matter?

He pressed a kiss to your lips, slow and sensual, reveling in the way you sighed into his mouth. This was all he could ask for; you were his sanctuary, the only constant in an ever-changing world. Without you, there was no light in Dainsleif's life - nothing left to hope for.

His lips peppered your skin with kisses - from your neck, shoulders and to your chest - until Dainsleif sank to his knees before you, gazing at you with half-lidded eyes.

Your breath hitched in your throat. Dainsleif watched in amusement as you raised a hand to cover your face.

"There's no need," you stammered.

"I want to," a soft smile, "let me take care of you, ástin mín."

Dainsleif leaned in, lips brushing against your stomach in a reverent kiss that made you shiver. Briefly, he found himself thinking: if you were a goddess, then Dainsleif was your devotee.

And the only right way to pray, he supposed, was to do so on his knees.

[misguidedasgardian]

The winter Sun (26)

26. The Strength of certainty

MASTERLIST

Summary: The aftermath of the battle and the reunion

Pairing: Cregan Stark x Fem!Targaryen Reader 

Warnings: Cursing, medieval and asoiaf customs, AGE GAP, Cregan is 12 years OLDER than reader), arranged marriage, war and all that comes with it, mentions of burnt bodies, mentions of childbirth, implied non-con, use of the word bastard, death of characters, mentions and descriptions of injury, might miss some warnings

+18, MINORS DNI

Wordcount: 3k

Notes: FINALLY I'm not going to hide it, they will see eachtoher again! can't wait for you to read it.

As you commanded your dragon to fly back to your home in the Vale you couldn’t help the shake in your hands as you grabbed the reins tighter. 

You had been reckless in coming here, when you left your home this morning you didn't even believed you could make it, but as you approached Harrenhal you realized you had come just in the right moment, the perfect moment

As you commanded Vhaelar to jump on Vhagar, you felt a sharp pain between your thighs, you had just given birth.

And although your dragon did most of the job, your body was a tight as a bow, constricted on it’s own, your muscles were so sore you believe it was a miracle when you could unsaddle from your dragon when you arrived back in Runestone, it was already dark, the night had fallen over the seven Kingdoms

You were in shock still

You couldn’t believe what you had done

It’s like some sort of strange personality had taken over you, the rage, the fire within you had taken control and unleashed its savage self on Aemond

Aemond was dead

You had helped on killing the kinslayer

And perhaps you were one yourself now

You walked slowly inside the castle, all the soldiers and servants had removed the green dragon from their clothing and removed it with the classic red dragon one, of House Targaryen, in your honor

You didn’t even know the full extent of Aemond’s attack on your home and staff within, you didn’t know what was said and done to them, but they all seemed relieved to see you return, unharmed, and something told them  everything was over. 

You knew they talked amongst themselves, so, it was clear, they reverted their loyalties back to you, you were safe in the castle your father had built for you. 

You found the midwife sitting in a rocking chair, sewing something, right next to the crib. You decided right then and there that you had to put everything behind you, you needed to stay here until you healed and then you were going to reach out to Sara in Winterfell to see how you were going to proceed, your baby was yet too small to travel on dragon back and either way, he was the priority now.

And Rickon? your heart clenched in your chest every time you thought about him, you wanted to see him so badly, so terribly much it pained you, you missed him dearly, with every breath you took.

The Midwife found you looking and immediately stood up from her chair and bowed

“thank you for caring for him”, you said softly

“The young lord is delightful, princess”, she said with rosy cheeks and a sweet smile, “he never cries, and he is so quiet”, you were content as you walked towards the crib and found that actually your son was awake.

The midwife left and left you alone with the baby, you took in your arms. You cooed at him, and he seemed to be happy to be in your arms

“How am I going to name you, uh?”, you asked softly, and you frowned when you remembered all the names Aemond had suggested, Maegor, Visenya, and more that resemble… strong… characters of your family…

But Maegor?

You couldn’t curse him like that and furthermore… Why would you listen to Aemond? he was dad, he was not going to come near YOUR son

But still you had no idea.

Tears came to your eyes as you wished Cregan was here next to you, to name your child, and then you wondered if he would accept him, he might doubt the baby’s paternity.

“Where could she have gone?”, Cregan was desperate, and he had trouble finding Daemon in the middle of the mayhem that surrounded the castle of Harrenhal

The Rogue Prince removed his helmet

“I don’t know”

He owned you his life, he would be dead if it weren’t for you, the scariest part?, he was prepared to die today, only to take Aemond with him.

He was never close to you, he couldn’t bear it, you reminded him too much of your own father, it was painful to him. But once he learned that one-eyed HIghtower bastard had kidnapped you? He saw red, and he decided right then and there he was going to kill him and it didn’t matter if he died in the process.

He had to take him down

But as your father before you, you had proven to be capable of handlings things yourself

He smirked, just thinking about

“Actually I do know”, he said, looking at the Wolf of the North, “she flew east, and there is only one place she could have gone in that direction”

But men were distracted when a handful of soldiers brought Aemond Targaryen to the castle, from the lake from which he had been recovered

The motherfucker was still alive

“One of his legs was completely destroyed”, narrated a soldier, as the One-eye prince had fainted for the pain and the fall, Vhagar rested in the bottom of the lake

Cregan and Daemon shared concerned looks

“We have to kill him”, demanded the wolf

“No”, said Daemon, “not here”

“What he had done to my wife? we have to kill him”

“Publicly”, he said, “we put him on trial and behead him in the King’s Landing square, or better yet… in Old Town”, Cregan wanted to fight him, he wanted to draw his own sword and kill him right then and there, a man injured and unarmed

“I promise he will pay for what he did, but we have to send a message”, said the Rogue Prince, and Cregan just dropped it, because there he stood, the One-Eye Prince, dragonless, eye-less, he had lost one of his legs which meant he was paralyzed.

He was not going to hurt you or anyone else ever again.

He could wait until he woke up, he wanted to face him for what he did, to tell him he was going to get you back and he was never going to see you again. He wanted to tell the Kinslayer he had won, that love, and goodness preailed. 

But his state was critical, Cregan didn’t know when Aemond was going to wake, if he was even going to, and he couldn’t wait anymore

He needed to see you, he had to

So he abandoned Harrenhal without even having a rest, a group of soldiers, his most trusted men followed him.

He left his best friend Ben Tallheart on Harrenhal to oversee the taking of the lands and the army marching to King’s Landing afterwards. 

Cregan rode his horse for a week

A man possessed by the need of returning to his adoring wife, a man possessed by love and devotion, he needed to see you, he needed you to see him, to see he was still alive, that the nightmare was over, that Aemond was over, and nobody could ever hurt you again. 

He rested at night because he couldn’t see the road ahead of him and because his men and his horse deserved it, if not he would have rode at night as well, but the rocky roads of The Vale were treacherous even in midday.

But finally after seven days of a heavy march, he could recognize the castle Daemon had described for him, your home

He felt embarrassed that he never accompanied you to your own home while you had been married, then he was reminded that you two had been married for almost two years… incredible…

The doors of the walls surrounded your castle were close, he dismounted his horse to approach the gated

“I’m Lord Cregan Stark, and i’ve come to see my wife, the Princess (Y/N)”, he said firmly to the soldiers above the battlements 

They looked at each other, amazed, and opened the gates immediately to let him pass

“Welcome to Runestone, Lord Stark”, they welcomed

“Like I said, I would like to see my wife, but my men and horses…”

“They will be taken care of”, offered the young soldier. Cregan offered his thanks as he walked through the courtyard and towards the main entrance to the palace, where another guard offered to take him inside.

“the princess is recovering in her rooms”, he told Cregan as they walk up the stairs

“Was she harmed in the battle?”, he asked, fearfully, and he looked puzzled.

“No my lord”

As they walked through the hallways and corridors Cregan looked around amazed, it was a beautiful place, with many large windows and colorful paintings and tapestries, it was a comfortable palace, he even saw a painting of your father and you, who in it you were only a child hanging near the stairs that led to the bedrooms.

And soon enough, they were outside a set of double doors, two more guard guarding you

Cregan suddenly felt nervous, he wanted to see you, and for you to see him, but he was scared of surprising you too much, he didn’t know how you were going to take it… 

“I will let her know”, the soldier said, knocking on the doors and once he heard you telling him to go in, he entered your chambers

“Lord Cregan Stark”, he announced

You froze in your palace near the window. Was this some sick joke?

“What?”, you asked

“Lord Cregan Stark is here for you, your grace”

“Is this some joke?”, you asked, the soldier immediately regretted his decision, turning pale, not knowing what to say

And then Cregan let himself in, not wanting to put the soldier in any trouble. 

When you saw him you truly believed you had died, or that you were dreaming, or having an hallucination 

You lost your foot and had to grab onto the nearest table, not believing your eyes

“Cregan?”, you called

“My love, I’m here!”, he said gently, “I've come back for you”, you couldn’t help but ran to his embrace, and he hugged you tightly.

He was real, he was alive, he was here

“You are alive!”, you cried on his chest 

“I’m alive my love”, he whispered against your hair, caressing your silver locks and your back, “I’ve come back for you”

You finally released him and he released you, only for you to gaze on one another

“Aemond told me he had burn you”, you whined

“He did, from the skies, but, my men, they, covered me”, he explained, “Jon, the son of Lord Roderik Dustin he took my cape and covered me with his own body”, he told you, and you could see in his eyes the storm of pain and traumas from war. “Then I saw Aemond walking through the field of burn corpses and he took the cape from him”, he said, and you nodded, tears falling down your eyes

“I can’t believe you are alive!”, you cried, and he hugged you again

He could tell you were so shocked by the news he led you to sit on the edge of the bed, and you smiled warmly at him, but he stood tall in front of you.

“I was badly hurt, my men carried me east from Harrenhal, the only thing that kept me alive was the thought of seeing you again”, he saw, with such devotion in his eyes that made you tremble, “and I…”, he was interrupted by your son who began to cry softly, and just then Cregan noticed the existence of the baby in the room.

He was resting on his crib by the window, and Cregan looked at it as it was a beautiful thing. He began to walk towards it slowly

“Cregan…”, you called, but he didn’t even acknowledge you as he walked until he could see your silver haired son resting on his crib

“You were indeed pregnant”, he whispered, with a wide smile on his face, he leaned in, and took the baby in his arms, he didn’t seem to realize what the baby’s hair might say about his parentage. He only looked at the baby with such love in his eyes that made your eyes water.

“I’m sorry”, you cried, clawing at the sheets underneath you

“What for?”, he asked, and he looked at you innocently dubstruck

“Cregan…”, you called, wanting to cry, did he really not see it?, but he did, his face got serious, looking at you with sad eyes

“You have nothing to be sorry for”, he said gently, cradling the newborn babe in his arms, he looked down at his little reddened face, his eyes trailed the silvery hairs on his head, and he swallowed hard, he looked at you and found you looking at him with wide eyes and tears streaming down your cheeks

“It might be Aemond’s”, you whispered, with a choked voice. You saw sadness in his eyes

“We don’t know that”,  he said simply, shooking his head

“Look at him”, you demanded

“This is not your fault”, he said seriously, his eyes softened when he looked at you, “hey”, he called gently, “what do you want to do?”, he asked, hope in his icy blue eyes

“Regardless, he is my son”, you said, in whimpers, “and I love him”, but then you sighed, feeling a lump in your throat, “what do you want to do?”, he could do it, he could claim he is a bastard and he could shun you, for a split second you forgot who Cregan was…

“He is our son”, he said firmly

“What…?”, you asked, sounding hopefully

“I don’t care”, he said dismissively, cradling the babe in his arms, “he takes after you, his mother”

“What if he turns out like… what if he is evil like Aemond?”, you asked fearfully

“We are going to raise him, and he came out of you”, he said with a gentle smile, “how can he ever be evil?”. he smiled at you and now happy tears rolled down your face, “and besides, I’m certain he is mine, there is no doubt in my mind”

“Cregan…”

“He is my son”, he said firmly, “and we will never speak of this again”, he said firmly, hugging the baby against his chest, you nodded, He looked down at the baby that cooed gently, cuddling deeper in his embrace, looking for his warmth, “my dragonling”, he said gently, “he looks like your father”, he whispered, and that really brought more tears to your eyes, “hello there”, he whispered, cradling him in your arms, “what’s his name?”, he asked

“I don’t know yet”, you whispered

“I will ask you to call him Jon, but he has your Valyrian curls is kind of sad…”

“Jonaerys”, yous aid then, and he looked at you wide eyed

“Jonaerys”, he agreed, sitting by your side, with your child in his arms. 

The night had fallen over the castle, and you had just finished having dinner with Cregan, and you were walking up the stairs with him. 

“Can I stay with you?”, he asked gently, and you looked at him wide eyed

You knew he knew what Ameond had done to you, there was a reason that the baby could be Aemond’s, and you could see how cautious he was while being near you. 

“I don’t want to push you”, he said gently

“I want you to hold me”, you said back, with a shy smile on your face, he smiled back at you

And he held you alright, you hugged him tightly, not yet believing he was there right next to you, you couldn’t believe it. 

“He is gone, is all over my love”, he whispered, “now we go home”

“You keep saying…”, you started shakily, “he is gone, he is gone… but… you are not saying… he is dead”, you whined, and then you looked into his eyes

“He will never hurt you again”, he said surely

“Where is he?”

“He is being taken to King’s Landing where he will hold trial and surely be executed”, you nodded, “Vhagar rests in the bottom of the lake, where you sent him”

“I see”

“You will never see him again”, he whispered

“I know”, you said back, burying your face on his chest. Cregan was your home, your safe palace, and with him, nothing could harm you

“We need to go to King’s landing”, he said then

“We need to go and see our son”, you said back

“The war is most likely over, we need to go and bend the knee to Rhaenyra”, he said gently

“I’m sure she will understand”, you muttered

“There are still people in King’s Landing that call her a usurper”, he said with a warning in his voice, “there still the Lannisters held the treasury…”

“I want to go and see our son”, you whined, “we haven’t seen him in moons”

“I know”, he said softly

“Eight moons”

“I know”, he kissed the top of your head, “we will go home first”, he said surely, “as soon as the baby is stronger and you had recuperated, we will fly there”

The war was over

The fear and uncertainty was over, you had won, your family was safe, you had to believe it, you had to. The biggest threat was gone. 

“I will take you home, or rather, you will take me”, he chuckled, “You, me, Rickon and Jonaerys, our little family”, he said, so proud of his two baby boys 

You were distracted when Jonaerys started to cry, Cregan was faster and he got up, to grab him from his crib, he took it to the bed, and he cuddled him against his chest

“He is smaller than RIckon was when he was born”, he whispered softly, “was the labor easy?”

“A little more messy, but there were no complications”, you said, caressing your son’s head 

“He is beautiful”, he whispered, “my son”, he whispered, “I’m the luckiest man on earth”

More notes: did you see something else coming from Cregan?? hehe

that is why I posted this picture in a publications some weeks ago hehehe

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[cactus-cuddler]

The Witch's Throne

❀❁❀ Prologue

Series masterlist | next chapter

* ˚ ✦ Word count: 784

* ˚ ✦ Warnings: murder

* ˚ ✦ Author' note: sorry for my bad English, it isn't my first language. I hope you will enjoy this story!♡

It is a cold and quiet night, not a soul is heard. Your servants have all fallen into a deep sleep, and only you and your husband are awake. The crows caw near your castle as if they already know what is about to happen in the blink of an eye.

You are in bed with your husband, who tries to remove your nightgown. But when he feels something metallic and sharp against your underwear, he suddenly pulls back, frightened.

He looks into your eyes under the light of the candle you lit a little while ago and only now notices your gaze. Your mind wanders between horrible and ignoble thoughts, and reading your assassin's glare, he leaps up and runs towards the door. But he doesn't know it's useless.

The handle is locked, and the terror in his eyes excites you, making your skin tingle. You can't wait to plunge the blade hidden in your nightgown into the heart of the man who has ruined your life for five long years. You get out of bed, and your white robe drags along the floor, covering your soft breasts and delicately caressing your waist with its fabric. You blow out the candle light and let only the moon light up your room. You run your tongue over that sharp blade that leaves a metallic taste on your tongue.

"Darling, a witch has possessed you. You don't want to do this," your husband screams in despair, banging on the door, hoping someone will hear him. But the sleeping potion you put in the servants' water is already coursing through their bodies. No one will hear him.

"You men think women can't kill, but today I'll prove you wrong," you say, slowly approaching with the blade in your hand, ready to strike. However, your husband dies before you can do anything. Despite yourself, the poison you slipped into his wine has already taken effect, and there's no need to dirty your hands. Your husband's body leans against the door and slowly falls to the floor with a thud. It is a great fortune that he died like this and not by your blade.

You planned this night down to the smallest detail. You made the sleeping potion by grinding the right plants yourself, and for the poison, you went to buy it from an old woman who lives just outside your kingdom. When she asked what you needed it for, you told her you had a terminally ill patient at home and wanted to end his suffering. She believed you and didn't ask further.

If the poison hadn't worked, you would have stabbed him until he took his last breath. It would have been more challenging to hide your guilt, sure, but at least it would have been more satisfying. You would have said that armed bandits had entered and your "dear" husband would have defended you when they saw that they wanted to take you without your consent. You would have hurt yourself to make it all believable. But now it was not necessary. They will think that he died of an illness during the night.

You put the knife in a drawer and, with much effort, drag the body onto the bed. His body is as fat as any self-respecting king's, and he only knows how to consume more food every day than his subjects will ever see in a single year. You lie down next to him. It all has to be believable. You can't help but smile, knowing that now you will be the queen of the kingdom and will no longer have anyone to belittle you and use you as a plaything every time his desire stirs. Now, you will finally be free.

But you don't know that outside your window, sitting on a tree, there is a human figure who has watched the whole scene with extreme attention. His will has been done and you have only been a means. But you really wanted to kill him, damn if you wanted to.

The next morning, the servants enter your room to wake you and tell you breakfast is ready, but as soon as they notice the king isn't breathing, the ladies scream, waking you from your dream.

"What happened?" you ask, rubbing your eyes and stretching.

"The king..." begins a young woman in tears. It takes courage to cry for a man like that.

"The king? What happened to the king?" you ask, looking at your late husband and pretending to notice only now that he isn't breathing. To get into character, you start sobbing on his body, but as you hide your face in his chest, you smile happily.

Series masterlist | next chapter

[just-thoughts-no-vibes]

Every day I think about how the Legend of Korra Season 4 could have been one of the best parts of the entire Avatar franchise if the main villain wasn't a new big evil, but already established issues that should have been dealt with long ago.

Ever since the original series, the authors have presented the Earth Kingdom as a place that even without war has a million problems because it's ruled by incompetent monarchs who do not care about the people and whose lack of interest is used by other parts of this corrupt machine.

We have seen how great the class difference is in all parts of the kingdom, especially in Ba Sing Se, how the army treats civilians, how they are willing to send children to war, how the most powerful force in the kingdom can betray its people in a second, how the queen enslaves her people believing they belong to her, how the prince won't lift a finger to help his people, how the king won't even listen to the peasants until the Avatar threatens him, and much more.

In addition to the problems in the Earth Kingdom, we have also seen the problem of apathy coming from other world leaders who have turned their backs on a country that has fallen into chaos. No one except Tenzin lifted a finger to help in any way. They sent no money, no medical or military aid. Their fix was putting an 18-year-old in charge and leaving her to do everything herself.

Two things specifically catch my eye. The only man who actually tried to do something is a member of a nation that has no material resources, no army, and has just begun to recover from the genocide. On the other hand, the leader of the ex-Fire Nation colony that was never given back to the Earth Kingdom didn't provide any help for the said kingdom. The only thing he did was ask a super-rich person to do something, she said no, and he was like oh well too bad. Also yes, I have a problem with Suyin in this situation, not because she refused to be a temporary leader, but because she had the means to help and chose to do nothing. It would be one thing if she were a regular civilian who couldn't do much, but she is not. She is literally among the top 5 richest people in the world, a ruler of the only province in the kingdom that wasn't affected by the death of the queen, and has a metal-bending army that is acknowledged worldwide. Yet, I don't remember her doing anything to help, be it just sending some funds.

Basically, there are so many issues surrounding the Earth Kingdom and Season 4 was the IDEAL time to talk about them. The setup was perfect: the country is in chaos, the avatar can't help, the richest layer of society does nothing, the only world ruler who tries to help is the air nomad, and everyone is okay with the throne being taken by a spoiled prince who doesn't care about the duties of a king.

And just think how much more interesting Kuvira would be in this scenario. I always saw her being a villain as a cheap way to say "Oh look! She is awful! Now you have to ignore everyone else being bad because she is the REAL bad guy!". And to be completely honest, taking into account her backstory, the way she was raised in Zaofu, the fact that she genuinely wanted to help, a lot of things that were said about her by other characters, and the way she surrendered and acted in Ruins of the Empire, it's completely out of place for her to be a villain. She would work just perfectly as a character who is easy to villainize but is not actually evil. She could have been used to criticize the monarchy and the world leaders while also questioning Avatar's place in the world. Literally everyone would benefit from her being a villain: monarchs who don't want to be seen in a bad light because of her reign, world leaders who don't want to be perceived as bad because they did nothing while a teenage girl risked her life every day to do the job, Suyin who turned a blind eye on suffering and ultimately abandoned Kuvira to do everything herself, and Korra who needs to prove she is still useful even if Kuvira was the one taking care of everything.

With Kuvira as a villain, they don't have to work on themselves and their policies, they don't need to change anything, and the status quo remains. But if Kuvira wasn't a villain, but a character that people want and need to be evil, then we could truly look into the core of the problem, that is, the system itself. The world would be forced into radical changes, or at least the beginning of them. The government would be questioned like never before, the richest would be seen for what they really are, and the Avatar wouldn't be able to just beat a new villain and thus regain importance but would have to adapt to the needs of this new world.

But hey, it's easier to make a villain because of whom we simply can't concentrate on the cardinal mistakes of other characters, than actually criticize the system that is the problem. It was cowardly of the authors and I have to say it's really icky that a character who wanted to retrieve colonized land was evil.

[the-plot-blog-thing]

For Fun: Here's My Favorite Disney Songs That Were Deleted/Changed In The Final Film (Part 4)

"Someday" was meant to be Esmeralda's song in Hunchback of Notre Dame, but was replaced by "God Help the Outcasts" in the final version. It was sung over the credits, however, and both would be sung in the stage adaptation.

"Shooting Star" was the original "I Want" song from Hercules, but was cut for being "too soft". I could take either or, but "Go the Distance" is still a classic.

"I Can't Believe My Heart" was Meg's original song. It was cut for similar reasons as "Shooting Star". I definitely prefer the version we got.

Stephen Schwartz, who wrote the lyrics for Pocahontas and Hunchback with Alan Menken as well as all the music for Wicked, was originally tapped to write the music for Mulan. He left early in production to work on the music for "The Prince of Egypt" at DreamWorks. "Written In Stone" is the only song of his version available to listen to. It would've been in the spot where "Reflection" exists in the final film.

Speaking of "Reflection", when composers Matthew Wilder and David Zippel joined the film after Schwartz left, they wrote a much longer version of the song. The fact that this version is not in the film is a crime.

"Keep 'Em Guessin'" would've been Mushu's song as he introduces himself to Mulan, but Eddie Murphy's dialogue worked much better, and made things much more succinct. The song is enjoyable imo, tho.

Famously, Disney was working on a film set to release in late 2000 called Kingdom of the Sun. It was a sort of an Incan retelling of The Prince and the Pauper, with some magic and gods thrown in for good measure. It was supposed to be another grand musical on the scale of The Lion King, even sharing its co-director, Roger Allers. To match that scale, they brought in musician Sting to write the songs, thinking he'd bring the same energy that Elton John brought to Lion King's songs. Sting and co-composer David Hartley wrote three songs for this version. The first, "Walk the Llama Llama", would've been the opening song. It was to be sung by the main character, Pacha (here played by Owen Wilson), a teenage llama herder who coincidentally looks exactly like the spoiled teenaged Emperor Manco (played by David Spade). The song is Pacha expressing his love for the llama as he herded them. Pacha's singing voice would've been Sting himself in the final film. There also would've been a reprise halfway through the film and at the end, though nothing from these reprises has appeared online. Unfortunately, the only clean version of the song is this country-fied version by Rascal Flats on the Emperor's New Groove soundtrack.

The second song, "Snuff Out the Light", would have been sung by the villain of the film, Yzma (as played by Eartha Kitt). In this version, Yzma would have been an aging sorceress who hated the sun for causing her wrinkles. She would've discovered that Manco and Pacha swapped, and turned the real Pacha into a non-speaking llama. She would've manipulated Pacha into doing what she wanted. She planned to summon the Dark God, Supai to block out the sun so she wouldn't grow old. This song was fully recorded, and the sequence had quite a bit of animation finished on it before the story changed.

The third song, "One Day She'll Love Me" would have been the love song of the film, and been sung by Pacha and the emperor's betrothed, Nina. Pacha has fallen in love with Nina, but feels guilty for living a lie. Nina is starting to fall in love with him, but still believes he's Manco, and doesn't know why he's changing.

Continued in Part 5!

[lowkeyclueless5137]

Yesterday I was talking to a friend of mine about an au for conductor Riddle and choir Azul when suddenly our conversations shifted to Rapunzel Riddle.

It got me thinking!

A Rapunzel Riddle AU. Where it takes place in Tangled, and Riddle play the role of Rapunzel while his mother is Gothel. So, instead of getting kidnapped (well, he still is, just not by a stranger), Riddle was taken away by his mother on the day he was born because he has a healing power.

So in my mind the backstory went like this:

The Queendom of Roses is a kingdom ruled by a fair and strong royal family. This kingdom is well known for their roses. There was also a legend passed down the line of a beautiful rose that can heal all of your sickness if you sing to it. It was said, that the rose is white in colour, and nothing can taint its beauty. Even the annual Unbirthday Party, where you must recolour any white roses to red, no one can change its pure white colour. For everytime they do so the rose will just sheds the paint right away. It was also said that when it was sang to, the rose will glow a silver light.

Now, this rose is considered to be just a myth. Even in the world full of magic, nothing in this world can grant instant health. However, this rose do exit, but a greedy witch had hide it away from anyone.

This witch was once a famous doctor back then. But she was not brilliant. She was what you consider to be a quack doctor. Though brilian at magic, she doesn't have any healing knowledge. Often put curses on anyone that bring fort her inability to actually heal. One day she found that rose by accident. She then used it to heal people, but with a really heavy price. Not only that, she also use its power to heal herself, stopped her aging when she noticed she was growing old and not pretty anymore.

Centuries went by and she has gone many different identities to not be noticed by anyway. One day, she meet a truly brilliant young doctor. He was not just an ordinary doctor. He was also the personal doctor of the royal family. Interested by his brilliant mind, this old witch tried to get close to him. Enchanted by her beauty, the young doctor ask for her hand in marriage some years down the line of their meeting.

This wedding resulted in her being pregnant. However, in the middle of her pregnancy, she fallen sick. See, despite her young looks, her body is not really young. Not to mention she never fallen pregnant before. She can't really handle the pregnancy. Worried for his wife's health and their unborn baby, the young doctor went to his Queen, begging for any kind of help. The Queen, beloved even if she can be too strict sometimes, give the doctor a helping hand. She told him about the rumoured rose. That it can cure any sickness. While the mases believe it was just a myth, the royal family do know its real existence. However, it was stolen from the royal garden many centuries ago. But you see, the royal family have a great connection to the roses in their Queendom, they alway know the condition of every roses in their Queendom. They know the legendary rose is in there somewhere, safe and sound, and the doctor can use it to help his wife.

The doctor, not really believe it, still agree in his desperation. He went to a journey along with the guards sent to help him by the Queen. Days went by with nothing until he stumbled across a lone garden just in the outskirts of the Queendom.

There, under the moonlight, stand tall a the white rose of the myth. How do they know? For its petals glow and shine aurora like light around it under the moonlight.

The doctor with he help of guards then take it back to the Queendom. When they present the rose to the Queen, she told the doctor to make the rose into tea and drink it to his wife. Shocked, the doctor ask why. For she said that it can cure any sickness with just you sing to it. Not to mention it was the only rose of its existence in the whole world.

The Queen just smile and told him that she believes the baby need it more than the mother, and the rose will one day come back to them.

The doctor, still in disbelief, still follow the Queen suggestion and make it a tea to his wife.

The witch drank the tea and months later give birth to a beautiful white haired baby. The baby is a boy. Born with white hair that glow under the moonlight and eyes bluer than the sky. Upon seeing it the witch instantly know that the rose is gone and now residing in her son.

That night she take away her child and run away to another kingdom across the sea. Leaving her "husband" crying and panicking upon seeing his beloved wife and child gone during the night.

The Queen, upon hearing the news from the sobbing doctor in front of her, just frown while soothing the doctor that she has considered to be her only family. She know, the baby will be back one day. She has seen it in her dreams. Of a young man in red that will one day rule the Queendom. But she can't tell it to the grieving father. So she settled on telling him that his son will one day come back. But they need to light up his journey, so he can find the way back to his arms.

That night, the whole Queendom light up lanterns and sent it to the sky. And they do it, every year on August 24.

Far, far away, in the middle of the jungle, stood a lone cottage with a tall tower behind it. A beautiful sound can be heard from inside. There, you can see a mother and her child sitting in front of the fireplace. The child's long hair glow beautifully under the moonlight.

Anyway! After that really long background, I will tell you the idea of it!

Trey and Che'nya are Riddle's friends. They used to be human children that accidentally stumbled upon Riddle's cottage and ask him to play everytime his mother went away. One day they got found out so Riddle's mother cursed them into animals. Trey as a green hedgehog, while Che'nya as a purple kitten (he never grow into a fully grown cat). Scared, Riddle beg for her to turn them back. He will do anything, but please turn them back.

The witch refuse. But she told him that she will turn them back if he promised to never left her and continue study really hard to one day become a doctor. Riddle agree, just so he can save his friends.

Floyd is Flynn Rider. He got into the tower after accidentally got separated from Azul and Jade when they're on a journey to the Queendom. When he accidentally stumbled into a cave that lead him to a beautiful place where Riddle's tower stood.

Anyway, the journey began when Floyd go in there and tell Riddle about his friends. Riddle, who nearly give up from find anyways to help his cursed friends, beg Floyd to lead him to his friend Azul. If he can't help him, at least Riddle can find other ways to lift his friends' curse outside. In return, after he manage to turn his friends back, he will do anything for Floyd.

So the journey began. And how the story unfold? Well, I don't know fully yet and I feels bad because it is already a really long ask 😅😭

Me: it's 7 am... I should get ready for school

*long ask appears*

Me: school can wait :3

(I'm joking, I'm still going to school bc it's important and Yada Yada) :'3

I put everything under the cut, because I was the 'genius' brain who decided to make it EVEN LONGER... :D

PS: I luv long asks, so more than anything, it made me very happy today!

I actually do have a rapunzel Au, but Idia is the moon drop. Even so, it falls so well with this one, that for the time being, I could use it to temporarily patch up Floyd's backstory and why he stumbled about the cottage and tower. That would imply that Riddle's the sun drop, but alas, this is again, up to debate until a proper story is made for Floyd's background to fall in place with Riddle's.

Since you did say that he stumbles upon the place, I could place it only after Idia goes to the snuggly duckling and Floyd has to leave as he was clearly helping the 2 to escape. Jade got a free pass due to his 'drunk' act and as such he had to stay there until it was safe for him to leave as well. Azul most likely was just experiencing several heart attacks at the moment, so leave him be. :'3

So because he was chased by guards through a forest, Floyd didn't knew when he passed the border, but he knew that those guys relentlessly chased down Azul and Malleus for stealing the crown, so he as an accomplice, was just as visated.

So because borders of kingdoms are basically where 2 outskirts back by back, Floyd basically just goes straight in the rose Queendom border, without having no idea about it. He wanted to hide from his pursuers, without knowing they didn't even pass the border as they knew that was the Queendom of roses. And in there, punishments were much worse for those who break rules. So they didn't doubt that Floyd would cause even a minor inconvenience which would spiral in his iminent decapitation.

So because of this, seeing an abandoned cottage right after he saw a multitude of 'missing child' signs for Trey and Che'nya sure didn't ring any alarm bells. Yeah, sure... -3-;

Cue meeting Riddle. And since I gave to Idia the honor of using a pan to knock out the intruders to his tower, Riddle shall get something more chaotic.

He bonks Floyd with a fucking chair, that's it... Just drop the chair on him... :'3

So of course, Riddle sees this as an opportunity. This guy looked like a merchant, like someone who travels a lot. And with some hope for at least Trey and Che'nya's cause, Riddle hid Floyd and waited for his mother to leave again for an expedition, so that he could wake up the unconscious body and ask for proper help.

Of course, at first, like any normal, sane being, Floyd just wants to leave. But again, the guy is pretty and he asks of him to get Che'nya and Trey out of here safely, to find someone who could turn them back into humans and get them to their homes, where they would be alright.

Floyd takes it as it follows: these 3 are hostages, 2 of which were turned into helpless animals that might as well just be yoinked by a hawk or something. And the 3rd hostage begs for at least the other 2 to escape.

Cue Floyd seeing a business opportunity. He tells Riddle that there is someone he works with and that he could break the curse. But, for that, there would be a price to pay. Riddle of course, desperate, couldn't just leave the opportunity to pass on and offers anything for the 2's freedom. He didn't have money of himself, everything in this tower was his mother's and as such, poor him didn't know what he could offer.

That's when he also remembered of his healing power. So he tells Floyd that he could cure any illness or wound. For the freedom of the 2, Riddle could cure someone's sickness or near fatal wounds.

And Floyd remembers that Azul wears glasses, after he gave away his sight for the twins as a result of a freak accident on the sea. If what this boy with inhumanly long hair says is true, then he could retrieve Azul's sight and restore the twins's eye wounds.

And as such, he decided that the payment had to be solving Azul and the twins's sight problem. Riddle was skeptical, but accepted to help. He expected for Floyd to just bring the 2 here so he wouldn't need to leave the house.

God he was so wrong.

Of course, first on the list was not dragging around this chunk of hair. So Floyd takes it upon himself to firstly braid it and try to pin it as short as possible, so they wouldn't drag around for god knows how long. Riddle admitted that he never had his hair being braided or made into different styles up until now. But following in tow after Floyd, with Trey and Che'nya as well, it felt better to moot have to drag all of that hair after him.

But since Floyd still was not aware he crossed the border, he got confused on his way, following the previous kingdom's map, only to end up in heavens knew where, in a little village next to the kingdom capital. Cue a lot of shenanigans and them realising that 'oh shit, we are in the wrong kingdom/Queendom'. So with this, Floyd haggles his money, thinking that maybe those would be enough to go to the capital and have a merchant negociate to take them to the kingdom they needed to find Azul and Jade in.

So now they go to the capital, absolutely ready to just get on the first cart and leave. Except that while looking for a merchant that was leaving for the kingdom, they stumble upon an old traveler who just sold some exotic spices to the royal bakers: the Clovers. Those were Trey's parents. Che'nya's were the royal jesters.(apparently, historically speaking, court jesters were considered advisors of the rulers and also treated really well)

So Riddle is bringing this up, saying to Floyd that they have to hurry and find this Azul guy, because we are speaking about people who have close ties with the queen. It is bound to be a lasting scandal.

So after some long negociation, finally, the old man takes the 2 in. Floyd had to give all of his money, as the cart was very small and the man had to give up for a few trades in order to make space for these 2.

But of course, they get spotted by Mrs Rosehearts, who is absolutely livid at seeing Riddle outside, with an unknown guy. Cue very epic chase through the street.

In this chase, Floyd does get hurt by trying to protect the old man and Riddle and as such, when they finally get her off their trails, Riddle insists to heal Floyd's wound. And of course, it works instantly.

But also Che'nya was touching the hair while Riddle was using his healing powers and as such, his curse is broken. Realising that all this time, Riddle could've simply broken the curse himself, he uses it on Trey as well and it works wonderfully.

His mother most likely knew about this, but in order for Riddle to not undo her curse, she hid it from him, mostly to make him desperate enough to obey her every word.

So Floyd does say that's a bummer, because he lost now the deal. Riddle tho, thanks him, because if it wasn't for him, he would've never found out that all this time, he could've simply undo the curse himself. But now he was on the run and clearly they couldn't return Trey and Che'nya so easily to the palace.

Floyd reassures that they will find a way back. And they grow closer and cuddle.

But because suddenly their number of people doubled, the merchant had no more space and as such, they had to leave him. Still he didn't return the money back and left, much to Floyd's annoyance. Their next objective: return Trey and Che'nya to the palace.

Cue a LOT of forest shenanigans until they finally stumble back into the capital.

Except that because she spotted them, Mrs Rosehearts used that to pretend to be a fresh escape from a 'kidnapper', who just happened to look exactly like Floyd. And as such, now the whole country was ready and armed to put down Floyd. He was now a wanted man.

Oh god, it was a chaos. Running from the guards and everything. Floyd realises that no way in hell will they ever get close to the palace without getting so much attention.

And as such, he turns himself in, so that the guards could bring in the 3 in front of the queen. He will get decapitated for it, but this was his mission.

And before parting ways, Floyd does tell to the teary eyed Riddle that he was fun. That he enjoyed so much him and the adventure they had, that he wouldn't mind to die for him. Riddle, of course, didn't want for the taller to die. He of course, started to care about him, but he didn't really realise how much, until they found themselves here, Floyd being dragged to the dungeons while Riddle was taken to the throne room.

Trey and Che'nya also felt really guilty about it. So the first second that they are taken back to their families, they beg to free Floyd before it's too late. That Floyd was actually the one who helped them escape and be back here.

And Riddle gets taken to the throne room, to meet the queen. Of course, it was a once in a lifetime opportunity and a great honor for anyone, but Riddle was there, walking like he was on eggshells, all messy and crying uncontrollably. Many assumed that he cried of happiness, but no, Riddle himself got down on his knees, in front of the queen, begging through sobs to free Floyd, to not kill him, that he loved the guy too much to even fathom him gone.

And this, of course, came as a shock to everyone. The queen of course, initially wanted to tell him that his mother was waiting for him, but with this desperate begging, something was up that wasn't yet told.

You said that the queen considered the doctor to be her only family and as such, I will add a bit into it, that the queen was a widow, unable to have a child of her own, and the doctor was more like a brother figure for her, so in the night of the faithful dissappearance, him crying to her and panicking about it, that his only child, her 'nephew' and 'sister in law' dissappearing, was similar to the present, when Riddle was in there, begging for Floyd to be released. So it hit a bit close to home.

And she indulges for her to take Riddle to the dungeons, to see Floyd and settle this matter.

Except that upon an order from. Mrs Rosehearts, already Floyd was ready to be publicly executed, so he was put in front of people, tied up, with the executioner having the axe ready to just slam it and make the decapitation. They couldn't prepare so fast the gullitone(?) so the free hand way it was.

Of course, Floyd long accepted his iminent death, so to see Riddle crying, reaching out to him from the crowd, Floyd could only just respond and try to soothe down the other's panic, that it will be alright, that he will always be there. He already served his last meal, brought by Mrs Rosehearts. It was clearly poisoned, but either he will die by a swift decapitation or the poison will do it's job, Floyd either way knew he was done for and nothing could ever be done about it. This, of course was kept in between him and Mrs Rosehearts. He will be decapitated and no one would ever question if he was poisoned beforehand or not.

Except that Riddle couldn't take it and manages to rush in and try to make Floyd duck, as the executioner was holding him by the hair, in order to properly cut his head off.

I all of that fast movement, the blade instead hit Riddle's hair, cutting it in one go as both Riddle and Floyd fell sideways. Of course, this was Floyd's shock, since still he was under the poison's influence. Either way he was going to die then and there. Riddle only prolonged the time with a few minutes, all at the cost of his healing abilities.

So Riddle does realise of the poison, mainly because of the symptoms Floyd showed. In a panic, he tried to heal him, but already his hair was a bright red, all powerless and he could only cry as the other was giving his life then and there, weakly trying to hug Riddle as a somewhat goodbye.

Except that Riddle's tears manage to do the job of healing, giving Floyd a 2nd chance at life.

Of course, since Trey and Che'nya told the truth, it did reach everyone's ears of what actually happened, but no one ever got to punish Mrs Rosehearts, as she was made dust due to the fact that she inhumanly prolonged her lifespan to the point she was meant to be just in a casket at this point.

Now just imagine Floyd, a man who avoided death by a hair tip, to look at Riddle and the first thing he ever says to be: 'you look like a goldfish'.

But it's excusable only this time, because it was a near death experience. :'3

So as an aftermath, it would be a lot of things, mainly Riddle trying to get used to his now shortish hair. It still was long by normal standards and also cut unevenly due to the axe's trajectory, but still Riddle wanted to keep it that way because he found it comforting for Floyd to braid it to him.

But of course, Floyd did have to go. He didn't stay long in there. And Riddle asked him why did he have to leave him. To leave the chance of a life as royalty.

On the day of departing, Floyd himself told Riddle of his upbringing. He was a pirate, apart of a crew of merpeople that were shunned. Their captain, Azul, roped in the prince of a Fae empire to steal a crown from the neighbor kingdom. He and Jade were just supposed to find a merchants who would pay a nice price for it at the bar when this wierd guy came in with Azul and Malleus and then he ended up on the run. He couldn't stay here, he couldn't leave his family, even if he loved Riddle to bits.

But he promises that he will come back. And that he wants to see Riddle happy next time he comes back. As such, Riddle gives him a parting gift: a rose enchanted to never wilt. In exchange, Floyd gives to the redhead a pin he used to hold his hair with. Just so each other would have something that reminds him of the other while they are not together anymore.

And with that, Floyd leaves to find Azul and Jade, while Riddle is on to grow into the role of the now sole heir to the throne (upon being named as such by the queen herself).

I mean... It's not a hypothetical full happy ending, but things to beat around with my og rapunzel Au, while also adding that flavor of something that sets it apart. It also leaves room if you actually want to use some other lore. Few little things have to be changed, but overall it doesn't affect the main idea I had for the story itself. A lot of wiggle room if I say so myself :3

God, it's 13:24 when I post this... :'3

[darknixx]

~ Picture was taken from Pinterest.

I wonder, who is the villain?

After a long fight that would determine the fate and history of the kingdom and its people, not all's well that ends well. Their dearest Hero should've been victorious- So why... Why is everything falling apart? Why is everything on fire? Why has the Villain won?

Well, well, well...

Would you look at this horrific spectacular sight? Do you see it?

Just right below your feet lies the kingdom you sought to protect now crumbling apart. But there's an even more terribly pleasant sight- You.

Oh, valiant 'Hero', look at you now— on your knees, amidst the ruins of the very kingdom you swore to protect. But here we stand, or should I say, here you kneel, defeated, broken, a shadow of your former glory.

I can't help but feel a pang of pity... Mixed, of course, with a bitter satisfaction. Who would have thought that this so-called 'Hero' would be the architect of their own downfall, blinded by arrogance and misplaced confidence?

It's almost ironic. Here I am, the villain of this tale, lamenting the fate of a kingdom I sought to conquer. What does that make me?

The cries of your people, do you hear them? They mourn not just for their fallen kingdom but for their misplaced hope. They believed in you and hailed you as their savior. Yet, here we are, surrounded by nothing but the consequences of your folly.

You aimed to be the hero, the beacon of hope. Instead, you gambled everything they had, everything they were, on your own hubris. And in doing so, you did not just fail them—you condemned them.

Look around you— what do you see?

The ruins, the despair, the lost hope?

This is the reality you've crafted with your own hands, blinded by your arrogance, seduced by the siren song of your own legend. You risked everything, gambled the fate of many on what? A chance to prove yourself against me? And for what? So that in the end, you could be the 'hero' in your story?

But in this twisted tale, who indeed is the villain? Is it I, who played my part, bound by the chains of destiny, or is it you, who, in your hubris, brought ruin upon the very souls you vowed to shield? You sought to write history, yet you penned a tragedy.

So, who truly is the villain? Tell me, 'Hero'. Who is it?

[zyrafowe-sny]

is the cop or am I the one that's really dangerous

Ambrosius says, "Because I love you," and Ballister's (aching, concussed) brain tries to comprehend love without trust, love with reservation, love that takes the twisted words of others over the bone-deep knowledge that comes from a shared life.

"Just promise to think about it, Bal. She's dangerous." Ambrosius retrieves the fallen sword and scroll and shoves them in his hands.

This time Ballister keeps them — putting his sword on his belt on auto-pilot — but that doesn't stop him from running off.

(And his newfound friendship with Nimona doesn't stop him from at least considering the words of his oldest friend and the man he can't help but love despite it all.)

He knows she couldn't possibly have orchestrated the assassination. She would have needed a second shapeshifter to pretend to be the Director to fake that confession — or split herself in two somehow — and either option seems both unlikely and altogether a far too complicated plan for little miss "something something we win".

Unless that was all a ruse to throw him off and she's actually a tactical genius.

He thinks of her delight in chaos and destruction. He thinks of how many knights she's injured (killed? modern armor is strong but not invulnerable). He thinks of all the innocent bystanders she put in harm's way. And that girl in the monster in the scroll looks uncannily like the girl he grabbed from atop a stolen motorhorse.

Could Nimona really be Gloreth's monster? Could she have destroyed their city when it was in its infancy? Did she want to burn it to the ground again? Is she capable of sowing (false) distrust to make the Kingdom harder to defend when she makes her big move? Did she identify him as the weak link in the Institute that would bring it all down?

(Maybe he's questioning everything now, but her loneliness seems real. He can believe she wants an ally, someone to talk to, someone to fight with, even if she always just planned on using him.)

Ballister's still lost when he finds himself back at the tower.

Nimona's sleeping so peacefully — especially compared to her earlier nightmares — but he hardens his heart as she wakes.

He wants answers.

She doesn't really give them.

All his darkest doubts spill out.

Ballister never does manage to say the m-word, but his actions speak louder than his tongue ever could. He sees her glowing eyes and hears the sound of his sword leaving its sheath. His own eyes dart between Nimona and his hands, and he can't believe what he was about to do to the frightened girl in front of him.

As Nimona would say, he was brainwashed good.

And apparently he's also an enormous hypocrite. (Maybe he judged Ambrosius a little too harshly for not believing he was innocent. Or maybe they both have much to learn about love and trust and who the monsters really are.)

"I-"

He fully intends to apologize for being small-minded (again), for clinging to a thousand year old story instead of trusting the (possibly thousand year old) teenager actually in front of him, but then there are voices outside before he can even start to find the right words.

He doesn't know how Todd found his hideout — was he followed from the city? — but that doesn't matter. To his relief, Nimona disappears in a shimmer of light and escapes before the knight notices. (Maybe someday they'll meet again and he'll be able to make up for his betrayal, but following her now will just put her in more danger.)

The beating feels like a fitting punishment. He just hopes he can stay conscious long enough that she'll be long gone before they think to continue the search. With any luck, she'll find some peace far away from this cursed kingdom.

But then the world shakes and he sees the birds fly away as shadows loom. And he knows the hurt is too strong and too deep and too old for her to just make a clean break, a fresh start.

It doesn't take long for him to recognize a death march.

He knew she had suicidal thoughts. He knew it and still he questioned her motivations and their friendship and her personhood. He knew it and pressed just the right buttons that would hurt her the most.

Maybe Gloreth's statue will drive the physical blow, but he's the one sticking a sword through Nimona's heart because she's different.

Unless he can get there in time.

Thanks for reading! If you enjoyed this, please consider liking, reblogging, or hopping over to AO3 to leave a kudo or comment.

[deldeldel90]

while I was drawing a pic of a younger frederick, I just got an idea for an au where basically, leland brings the plaid brothers out to the shipping docks to explain to them how it all works and why its important to the plaid kingdom.

Blaine is 7, Lance is 6, Frederick is 5. and at the end of their little trip there, frederick (being as small as he is) slips away because, well, he likes ships and he's not too keen on all the eyes that seem to be on him. he ends up accidently getting on a ship set to go to the pastel kingdom.

he's scared, crying gently bc he doesn't want to be found in case he'll get in trouble with his dad, and when the ship hits land, he follows one of the shipmates to the pastel kingdom. he chases as fast as he can (his footsteps remaining soft, though, cause he doesn't wanna get in trouble) but he ends up getting lost.

just as he's about bawl (even though dad hates it, it makes him feel better and right now, he really wants to feel better), he hears a gasp. and staring up at him, is miss agatha, who was just about to leave the castle to go home. she, voice trembling, asks him a million questions and he barely even answers.

mumbling to herself, she goes, "dang it. that's no way to talk to a child, you know that, agatha..." and, louder, to him, she smiles, a strained one, and says, "do you have a family? where's you family?"

he lies. "I don't have one." he puts on the face Laverne makes when she really, really wants something and needs to act cute in order to get it. "im," he pauses, trying to find the words. blaine's adviser (teacher or something, he doesn't really know) told him a bunch of stuff about problems in the kingdom. he tries to find one that'll make his situation a bit sadder. or maybe find an explanation for this all. "i don't have a kitchen."

the woman blinks.

frederick's never been good with lying. he hates it, he really does.

"or a sink. or a bathroom. or... or, um, a table. or a bedroom."

"you're homeless?" thats what she makes of it. he doesn't correct her, because he doesn't know what any of this means.

he nods.

he's immediately scooped into arms that feel warm to the touch. "oh, no," she mutters. she looks like something terrible just happened. "im- well-" she's about to put him down, but frederick clings to her like he's a baby again.

"can I stay with you?" he asks in his littlest voice. he's not pretending when he tucks his head into her shoulder, looking down at the floor.

he doesn't know her but, somehow, she feels a lot better than the family he's got.

miss agatha melts.

"fine," she says after a moment of hesitation. "but only for a while. we need to know where you-"

"don't know nobody," frederick mumbles.

"i can't take a, what, toddler? from- it's not-"

"not a toddler," frederick interrupts again. he knows its rude. he doesn't know why she hasn't told him off yet.

"you're not?" she sounds like she doesn't believe him. "you're too small."

he can't help but pout. "that's cause I'm always sick," he tells her the reason he's always been told.

he feels a bit fuzzy. like he's just woken up from a nap. maybe its cause he really likes to be carried. maybe its cause he can't remember last time he wa being comforted like this.

miss agatha holds him a little tighter. "well, that won't do." she cradles him for a moment. shes walking somewhere, hopefully home. deep in thought, it seems, too, cause she barely is saying anything except low whispers he can't hear. "say, do you like books?"

frederick's nearly fallen asleep by then. still, he managed to reply, shyly, "i like books. stories 'nd stuff."

a door opens.

frederick sees her backyard, grass cut in a way thats almost perfect, overgrown flowers, the glow of the other homes' lights.

he can't help but wonder if this is what's gonna be his new life.

or,

frederick and miss agatha meet. adoption ensues.

miss agatha's just happy to have somebody who likes to learn.

little bits of this au:

- teaching assistant frederick!!

- dynamic aunt agatha and nephew frederick :)

- miss agatha listens to what frederick says and actually cares abt his interests. her taking him around the kingdom, explaining everything abt their land.

- frederick wearing pastel green crisp shirts (maybe even some with suspenders), blazers, ties, and black shoes with white socks. him gaining the Teacher style. pastel academia frederick.

- agatha has a small library in her house with cozy armchairs that frederick loves to sleep in. he really likes her house in general, because the colors are light and pretty and there's no plaid. it smells like autumn.

- frederick calling miss agatha "aggie"

- miss agatha calling frederick "freddie-boy"

- frederick being raised on butter cookies and ham-and-cheese sandwiches. when miss agatha gets home and he's done with school, they have dinner together and she tells him all about her job as the royal children's teachers

- (frederick pretends he doesn't know anything about kingdoms.)

- frederick becoming friends with neighborhood children..... just. let this boy have friends 😭😭 (one of his friends gets him into a series called "warrior ponies",,, skdhsksjdj and just. little kid shenanigans.)

- a seven-year-old frederick shipping miss agatha and the old guard because of how often he joins them for either breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

- the old guard being grumpy and referring to frederick as "the kid". the old guard becoming protective once he learns of frederick's backstory,,,

- miss agatha and frederick spending time in bookstores together,,, in the local library,,, sometimes they read in bakeries or in the park

- just. kid frederick. growing up with a stable family (of some kind,,)

[dnickels]

I picked up Idylls of the King because Russell's repeated quoting seems pointed (I think the line is dropped more than once, but I could be misremembering) and because Morse is a Tennyson guy, and while it's not my favorite overall I do think its fabulous both as a lens to view the show and a supplement to the text. The quoted line is pretty straightforward:

The old order changeth, yielding place to new

It both describes the social/political upheaval in the background of the series, and serves as a fun little wink at the audience from a writer creating a slick new prequel to an extremely beloved and venerable story. This line in particular is interesting, because its repeated twice-- by Arthur in the first poem, when he's just finished vanquishing the foe and is casting out the old order of barons, demanding they pay tribute to him, and then by Arthur in the last poem as he lays dying, Camelot lost, the kingdom fallen, the shining city undone by human failings.

The parallel with fresh-faced young Morse of the pilot and a defeated, jaded Morse (either of Exeunt of Remorseful Day, your pick) is obvious, but I want to dig into deeper than that-- there's an unspoken cloud hanging over Tennyson's Idylls, one that all the knights understand but never acknowledge: the Arthur's project is untenable, he sets standards for his knights that are impossible to live up to, he lives in a fantasy world and can't see the 'sins' going on under his very nose. Through that lens, we can see Morse's naive crusade against corruption as beautiful and doomed as a lost Camelot. Sir you are in a 1960s police force, perhaps the most venal and corrupt institution there is! The labor AND the wounds are vain!

I do think there's a level of intention, and its not a line quoted by chance (Thursday spends his last episode musing on The Lays of Ancient Rome, a key text of a certain kind of ideology we're about to discuss), Morse raising himself on high Victorian and Edwardian poems about heroic self-sacrifice, stainless knights, valor, stalwart righteousness etc despite the fact that everyone who genuinely believed in those ideals was killed on the Somme in 1916 (anyone who survived quickly jettisoned anything to do with Knights in Shining Armor) really fills in the picture of why he's Like That. I would absolutely describe Morse as chivalrous, with both positive and negative connotations-- he loves damsels, but cannot understand (or, as he gets older, tolerate) women who refuse to wait in a tower to be saved. He makes these impossible demands of himself, and its very noble, but he's vicious when other people fail to live up to the versions he's dreamed up in his head-- and most of the time, they're puzzled as to why he ever believed that highly of them in the first place. He is gracious, courteous, respectful but also fussy, hidebound, quick to judge. He's constructed this beautiful worldview that was antiquated ten years before he was born, much less at the height of the swinging 60s, and he's constantly being blindsided by the bare facts of the times he lives in (o tempora o mores etc). The old order changeth...and Morse gets left behind.

Then loudly cried the bold Sir Bedivere: “Ah! my Lord Arthur, whither shall I go? Where shall I hide my forehead and my eyes? For now I see the true old times are dead, When every morning brought a noble chance, And every chance brought out a noble knight. Such times have been not since the light that led The holy Elders with the gift of myrrh. But now the whole Round Table is dissolved Which was an image of the mighty world, And I, the last, go forth companionless, And the days darken round me, and the years, Among new men, strange faces, other minds.”

[cherubchoirs]

yo ive got some songs that i think are fallen gabe songs!! with titles so you can look them up instead of clicking the link if you want

Gen'ei (Phantom/Shadow/Mirage) by Harumaki Gohan (it's in japanese so you gotta turn captions on)

DEATHBODY by GHOST and Vane

oooooooh thank you so much for sending these bc i think they both really hit on relevant themes that i want to explore with him in future pieces....and they give me the opportunity to talk about them now!! (this will cover some heavier topics dealing with identity and...literally death and body-related issues, so please be aware before proceeding!)

mirage - this is likely self-explanatory, but after falling the central internal conflict gabriel experiences is piecing together who he is and what his identity is to be. initially, he thinks of himself as a shadow without its body, as a void made material that lingers as gabriel's sin and stands as a testament to his choices. his mind is weighted with contradictions, at once feeling a deep remorse and shame for the crimes he committed under god's direction, but knowing as well that this had been his purpose, that he was forged as a weapon to be wielded against any enemy of god's kingdom. so what is his truth then? is his true self what god intended for him, is it the mold he was born into and felt such pride for in all the millennia that had past until so recently? or is he made of the doubt that had always been in the back of his mind, is he truly the autonomy he had found and the ramifications of that he now reckons with?

he both hates what he had been and envies it, sickened by all the images he sees of his past as the archangel that plaster hell as though to mock him...because for some time, he thinks that was him, that was his reality, his inherent being. the image of gabriel as he was haunts him, stalks him though he feels himself now as the ghost, he is reminded constantly of the gabriel that harmed so many but was so beloved, so favored. so prized by god. logically by then he knows god was wrong, god forced him to betray himself over and over, but there's nothing easy about leaving eden. gabriel has fallen from the highest station, he has taken the lives of other angels, he lives now in pain, in exhaustion, in hell. yet at the same time, that past was one of ignorance and denial, it is one he could never go back to now that his eyes are open. and besides...the adoration he felt was distant and conditional while the devotion he had was mindless and expected. not like now, not where love is given intimately and his worship is chosen. he comes to understand that he was gabriel, that he can't abdicate his responsibility for the atrocities he committed...but that what he's become as a fallen angel was always a part of him, an almost inevitable conclusion (if he still fully believed in fate). he lived such a long life lying to himself, contorting who he was to be the perfect image of an archangel, and it only pains him that it took him so much time to act on his doubt.

deathbody - AUUUGHHH.......this one gets it because gabriel is actually struggling a lot with his death as he had taken his own immortality as a granted - and when the light was ripped from him, his belief was that he would simply cease. that itself wasn't an easy thought, but he never considered rising again, coming back in a body that's aching and weighted. and with the information that hell is orchestrating a lot of what's occurring in game, i like to think it was the one to bring him back and something in him knows that. in a day, he's gone from being the brightest angel in god's choir to a corpse resurrected by hell itself. he can feel whatever's become of his soul is sullied and he knows that anyone else who's left can see it too, even something inorganic like v1 - his blood, once carrying the odor of sanctity, now smells of rotting lilies. his body is also distinctly more physical than he's ever felt, the light and flame gone from him to leave a shell of matter behind, something that was once more like a skin becoming his entire being. his movements have lost their elegance, his feet must now tread the ground, he feels the effort of muscles and he feels the weight of his armor. he had known something like physical exhaustion from particularly demanding fights, but this is an animal sensation, one that sets in with so much less effort. in fact, it's constant, easing with rest but following him now forever, feeling always as though he's dying despite already being dead.

AND LISTEN....i got plenty of sappy stuff about how he learns to adjust to his now non-ethereal nature and all the ways it solidifies his relationship with v1, BUT i'll spare everyone since i've gone on long enough (and i'm too corny for even myself sometimes!!!) just know it's likely to come up in some doodles eventually!!

[the-flower-named-fire]

Random Concepts I found interesting

When a Quincy kills you, your soul is destroyed

A incantation curse is broken when the person who did it has their tongue cut off in Truth or Dare

Pokemon faint when defeated

Phoenyx lose immortality when they take a soul

The Wheel creating the Dragon in WOT

A creature begin killed and the place their fallen never grow life again

Not sure from where, but I remember something Fate/Stay-Like classes, where the characters could only use certain weapons each one

The monster made of ashes of the people Capricorn killed in Inkheart

Dusfinger knowing how to speak to fire, fire begin treated as a living begin in general

Enkidu turning back into Clay after Gilgamesh refused Ishtar

Instead of fighting the monster, you have to make it cry

The guy that literally grew roots in Saramandaia

Not begin able to fight in a sacred place in Highlander, low-key similar the Dothhaki not drawing blood in their sacred city

The language of flowers in general

I like 'weird thefts' like heart, voice or eye (but more in a magical way?)

Not sure if its canon, but in SP, there was a creture that 'bad things' happened when you injured them?

The whole 'turning into something' can be both weird and neat

A place only certain people can enter or can't leave

The Helcaraxe's betrayal, just the ships burning and the rest of the Noldor begin forced to walk through a frozen land.

Kirin in Twelve Kingdoms, all of it: the fact they were born from tree, have their lives connected with the rulers they choose, the whole 'they will eat my corpse when I die' deals they have with Youma, the fantasy horse stuff.

Akuma no Mi's eaters can't swim, its so random, I loved it

A river made of tears, it run through all the worlds

The 'Cannot Tell a Lie' magical rule, the whole 'Time Works Different in this Place' fairy rings stuff too

Zodiac Signs, while I don't believe, they are interesting and pretty aesthetic

Once read (not sure where) about three Hounds begin named 'Beside, Behind and Before' because 'look beside, look behind you, look before you. You can't escape them'

Reapers begin people that committed suicide in Kuroshitsuji

Mirror Reflexes talking to you or begin some kind of supernatural begins

Children of Ill Omen from Pandora Hearts

A person that only can be killed in one way

Portals that need to be openned in a certain in way (Barbie and the 12 dancing princess and the Gate of Moria)

Magical Rules of any kind (I was thinking about Jack and the Cuckoo Heart's rules: Never touch the hands of your heart. Keep your temper under control. Whatever else you do, you must never, ever, fall in love.

[antikhthon]

The Ages of Man

[image source]

It is an ordinary day at the Forum in the great city of Remoria. Bright Helios the all-seeing shines his golden rays against the buildings of marble and cement that surround the square, and the whispers of the Twelve Betyls, stone guardians of the city, can be faintly heard among the chattering of merchants.

An old man is sitting at one of the benches nearby. He wears an ornate toga, which strikes you as odd, as such uncomfortable clothing had fallen out of use long ago. The old man looks towards the Regia, murmuring to himself, but the many statues of the Forum stand in the way of you reckoning what exactly takes place therein.

You get closer to the bench to assess what's happening at the Regia. Soldiers, as is routine, are replacing the tablets of the Acta, as a crowd of angry citizens gathers. They yell and throw their arms, but you can't make out what they're saying.

The old man looks at you. "It appears another riot lays at the horizon." He scoffs. "The people are angered again. They always are, for some reason or another." "What are they angry about now?" You ask. "They want to stop the expansion efforts at Lemuria." He says, "Another city has fallen to the undead, and now apparently the Emperor wants to raise taxes to further fund the conquest, which at this point only a fool would believe. The man just wants to line his pockets with aurei." "I don't see the point." You say. "In taking Lemuria, I mean. Argyre has been a succesful province so far." "It's not as simple as that." The old man says. "While we need to find more suitable climates, and Argyre certainly is that, the Titans declared Dracaena as forbidden lands. It's already a significant transgression for that province to exist."

The old man fidgets with a strange looking coin. It glimmers in the sunlight with a color unlike any you've seen before - a pale pink, like dry lips on a Mycthean summer morning. "I've never seen a coin like that." You tell him, gesturing towards it. "Oh, this old thing?" The old man looks at it. "It's not really currency. I got it custom-made from the blacksmith, not far from here." "What's it made of?" You ask. "It's a special alloy, gold and bronze." He says. "It serves as a reminder of our beginning." He flips the coin, and it lands on the opposite side, which is instead made of dull, rusted iron. "And our end." "What do you mean?" You ask. "Have you not heard the tale of the Ages of Man?" He asks in return. You shake your head. "Strange." He chuckles. "It's practically the only thing the philosophers of this age talk about." "I'm not from here, sir." You respond. "I've moved recently from Variscia." "Ah, that explains it." He gets up from the bench, and begins to walk away. "Come with me, and I'll tell you the story."

You begin to walk across the streets of Remoria with the elder. He's quite frail, and you have to help him cross the busy streets. He doesn't seem to mind, and in fact, he's quite talkative.

"Now, where do I begin?" He mutters. "Ah, yes, the Golden Age. It was an age of great prosperity and progress. It begun when man built the first city. They tamed the land and built awe-inspiring temples and cities across the world. This city was one of such, and quickly grew to become the paragon of this idea. Although, it wasn't called Remoria in those times." "What was its name?" "That, boy, I cannot say. The Titans forbid anyone to speak Remoria's secret name." "Ah, I see. How did this age end?" "The heavens opened, and let forth a star, that rapidly wandered the earth. All kingdoms saw it, and it saw all kingdoms, and as it came it departed, leaving behind a demigod." "A demigod?" "Yes. One that killed all the gods of those times, to rule the earth, and plunge it to ruin. This was the silver age, when the great minds spoke no more, and the arts were killed and reshaped to serve his will. The world was picked apart between tyrants, who plundered until there was no free land left to plunder."

The old man falls silent for a while, before continuing.

"When there is nothing left to steal, the only thing left to do is to kill. Thus commenced the age of bronze. The age of wars. Great armies clashed against one another, battles were fought across the world, cities were sacked, temples were destroyed, and the very earth cried out in pain. Some saw the terrors of this age, and sought refuge in the heavens, thinking that perhaps they'd find the warmth of the gods among the stars. But it was too late, for the gods had already forsaken them. The people of this age soon enough all perished in earth-engulfing flame, and those that now called the spheres home became the only ones left." "And what's the next age?" "I'm afraid there is not another. Their story ends there."

Eventually, you reach a taberna. The old man leads you inside the thermopolium at the center, and asks the owner for a cup of wine. "Would you like something?" he asks. "Uhm, sure. Just some posca." you say. He takes a long drink, as you try to piece together what you just heard.

"But then, where do we fit in in this?" You say. "If the earth is dead, and its peoples long gone, where did we come from? What did you mean when you said that our beginnings are of gold and bronze?" "Ah, that." He looks at you. "Truth is, the earth I mention is not our own. That earth, or its ruins, is far, far away. An unmarked grave, hidden in some corner of the night sky."

The elder pauses again, to gather his thoughts.

"We are brazen men wearing golden robes." he once again begins. "The Titans, when they found us, stranded on the wandering stars, they saw the good in us. They saw resilient creatures, that, one way or another, would endure, no matter the odds. That, if given a new chance by the Fates to flourish, we could begin anew and become greater than ourselves. So they gave us this new chance, they built a new earth for us, based on the first glimpse of the earth they saw long ago, and gave us this chance at rebirth." The old man's face turns to a smile, and the smile turns to wheezing. "Turns out, the bastards were wrong." He bursts into laughter, drawing the attention of the thermopolium. "Plague, strife, and misery is all we know today. Perhaps we will die iron men."

You stare at the laughing elder, dumbfounded. "Is that it? Is there no way out of this? You can't be serious sir, is there really no way to prove our worth? That we can be better? Is it really just hopeless?" The old man's laughter slowly ends, as he continues to smile your way. "The youth has always been a hopeful bunch. Perhaps there is, but that, however, is a story for another day, I'm afraid. I'm old, and I need my rest." He gets up from the stool. "Listen, when I got that old coin done, I also ordered this other one. You can have it, perhaps it'll one day be of use to you." He gives it to you, pays the tabernarius, and slowly walks away from the thermopolium.

The coin he gives you has the same pinkish face as the other one, but its backside, rather than rusted iron, is of a bright reddish metal, like the fabled orichalcum of Atlantis. On this side is engraved a map of the province of Argyre.

[videogame1up]

Some of my favorite games of all time

If you were to ask me what my favorite game of all time is, i would probably say something like "Of all time? I don't know, depending on the day and my mood it could be ten different games" Or something to that effect. The games listed here are a healthy mix of some genuinely amazing, ten outta ten games and some "I played it a lot when i was a kid" With that said this list is in absolute no order, the #1 on this list is not my all time favorite game, just one of them.

10. Sims Bustin out

Alright starting off with a bit of a left curve, but Sims Bustin out is one of my favorite games of all time. Which is a statement i trust not too many people have said. Is Sims bustin out the best Sims game? No, that's probably Sims 2. Bustin out beats out 2 mostly for that sweet sweet nostalgia. Anyone who has played, and gotten into the Sims knows how addicting the game play is, balancing work, personal life, relationships is so much more enjoyable when done virtually than in real life. I have so many memories of booting this game up late at night when everyone had fallen asleep, excited to get a new promotion in my criminal career path. The gameplay of Sims Bustin out is purely addicting, and it's an addiction i haven't really shaken from childhood. Now I'm off to never say or type "Bustin out" ever again

Release Date- December 16, 2003

Consoles-PS2, Xbox, Gamecube

9. Donkey Kong Country

I remember the first time playing this game, my friend invited me over and about half way through i asked "So, whats the plot exactly? Like, are we trying to rescue your girlfriend or something?" I was beside my self when my friend went "Nah, we're getting your bananas back" It's such a funny premise and shows the game doesn't take its self too seriously, beneath the surface of this over the top goofy game is genuinely one of the greatest 2D platformers of all time . One of those games that has infinite replay ability because its so much fun going through these stages. The difficulty curb isn't too crazy, and eases you into some of the most challenging but fair levels from any game. Not to mention this one of the best looking games to come from the Snes, with one of gamings best soundtracks. I genuinely love this game, and believe its worth playing, even if for only a few levels.

Release date- November 18, 1994

Consoles- Snes, Switch (online snes library)

8. Kingdom Hearts

*silence* WHEN YOU WALK AWAY

The Kingdom hearts series has had its up and its downs, it has had it's Organization XIII and it's time travel (for some reason) the original Kingdom Hearts is still a pretty simple and straightforward game which i definitely think helps with it's longevity, i don't know what is going on in Kh3 and i played all the other games leading up to it. KH is a beautiful marriage between Square Enix and Disney, it should not work out nearly as well as it does. The developers really got things right off the bat, the worlds (for the most part, fun fact you can actually skip under the sea) are fun to explore or at the very least, thanks to the enjoyable combat system, they are fun to fight your way through. Each world of course has its own vibes, they have their own unique heartless and boss fights. If you want extra content KH has you covered. Two (pretty difficult) secret bosses to find in the Peter Pan world and Aladdin world. You also have the coliseum to go back to, eventually making your way up to the Hades cup filled with enemies you have fought along the way as well as a few boss fights including of course Hades him self. You can't talk about side content without talking about Sephiroth. You can beat the game, credits will roll, Sephiroth will still kill you. Or for giggles you can attempt a speed run (for me my best time is around 5 hours) Kingdom hearts was also the first game that was purely just mine, after having to share with my siblings no one but me in the house was all that interested in saving my friends and returning back home to Destiny islands. This is game that scratches that nostalgia itch, and is just a genuinely fun game

"Remember what you said before? I'm always with you too, I'll come back to you. I promise"

"I know you will"

Release Date-March 28, 2002

Consoles-PS2,PS3,PS4, Xbox One

7. Wind Waker

Link to the past was my first Zelda game, but Wind Waker is my favorite Zelda game. Wind Waker, how do i love thee, let me count the ways

The open world was vast with so much to see and explore, this is a point of contention as there are those out there who don't like the great sea. And those people are wrong. The great sea offers such a great sense of exploration. Feed the fish to learn about each island (49 of em) take on each enemy outpost you encounter, hunt for treasure, fight sea monsters, explore ghost ships, or simply watch a storm roll in. While Zelda stories are never very deep, i quite like this one. (slight spoilers for a 20 year old game) you discover what happens to Hyrule when it's hero fails to rise, for a cartoony game its story is fairly dark. And of course the game looks fantastic, even going back to play the original gamecube release it still looks very good. Some complain that this is one of the easier Zelda games, but that criticism goes out when you consider Breath of the wild is the easiest Zelda game and that's the one everyone says is perfect. Zelda games aren't meant to be dark souls, and i really do love just sailing around.

"This is the only world that your ancestors were able to leave you. Please....forgive us"

Release date- March 24, 2003

Consoles- Gamecube, Wii U

6. Sonic the Hedgehog (Sega Genesis)

A.K.A the official Nostalgia representative. The Sega Genesis was the first console i ever played, games like Eternal Champions, Phantom 2040, X-Men, Alex Kid in the enchanted castle, while i do have a soft for these games and many others that kicked off my interest in gaming, not many hold up exceptionally well today, that is of course expect for Sonic on Genesis (I'm cheating here a bit and including the three main line sonic games on the genesis ) These games represented the best that the Genesis had of offer and are still a blast to play to this day. Who wants to play as a slow Italian plumber when you can play as a cool blue hedgehog with attitude. Just try and put your controller down, he will tap his foot impatiently. It was the 90s, and being cool was so cool. Speed? Oh speed was the coolest. Race through the levels with master reaction time jumping over enemies and obstacles to race to the finish. 30 years later, and these games still hold up exceptionally well

Release date- June 21, 1991

Consoles- Genesis, and countless re-releases on nearly every console since the ps2.

5. Red Dead Redemption 2

I wanna be a cowboy baaaaby

There is no such thing as a perfect game, but RDR2 is pretty close. The Story is this game is one of my favorites. Following a gang in the dying days of the wild west, it has some twists. It has some turns. And in the end, it had an emotional and satisfying conclusion. RDR 2 excels at what any sandbox strives for, an amazing world to explore. As fantastic as the story is, the world has so much to see and do and explore. Stranger missions (side missions) scatter the world from becoming hunting friends with a war vet to gathering dangerous and exotic animals that have escaped from the traveling circus. Like searching for creepy Easter eggs? Because great, you can explore a haunted swamp, find a woman imprisoned by her own family, and follow the clues leading to the lair of a serial killer. With over 200 animals living in the world of RDR 2, it really does feel alive. The world is diverse and never a bore to travel through, in part thanks to the fact RDR2 is one of the most graphically impressive games I've ever played.

"When the time comes, you gotta run and don't look back. This is over."

Release date- October 26, 2018

Console-PS4,Xbox one, PC

4. Animal Crossing New Leaf

I bought a 3ds just for this game, i went to Gamestop the morning the game released and bought a Red 3Ds XL along a copy of Animal Crossing New Leaf. I won't get into New Horizons here, but New Leaf is still by far the series has offered. New Leaf was peak Animal crossing, it took the game several steps forward while still staying true to the Animal Crossing formula. You move to a village and become the new mayor, which allows you freedom over your town like never before. With public work projects you could decorate your town, as mayor you could set ordinances so villagers either stay up late with your, or maybe they wake up early with you. The music is arguably the best Animal Crossing has given us. Fortune cookies allowed you to decorate your home with items from Zelda, Mario, Pikmin, Starfox, etc. Forge friendships with your neighbors, try to force the ugly ones out, actually upgrade your shop all the way. Maybe the best part, no incredibly long tutorial. The game just, starts. It's easy for anyone from any age to get into New Leaf.

Release date- June 9th, 2013

Console- 3DS

3. Hit and Run

You ever wanna play gta but your mom wont let you? Just play The Simpsons Hit and Run, its sorta the same game. Hit and Run has a fair amount of flaws, like the fact you essentially repeat the same 4 or 5 missions over and over again. Race that car, follow that car, destroy that car, collect stuff the car drops (worst of these missions) However, i am a Simpsons fan and also it's a game from my youth, it was always going to make it on this list. (I see you Road Rage, get outta here) Even though the missions aren't the most thrilling, the game it self is still a lot of fun to mess around in it. Springfield is honestly pretty faithfully re-created, outside the standard missions there are plenty of extra goodies (level gags, collector cards, bonus cars to unlock, costumes such as cool Lisa, Bartman, Donut head homer and officer Marge) driving around feels good and doesn't take long before you start discovering shortcuts in each level, allowing you to absolutely smoke the computer players. For all these reasons Hit and Run is a game I'll consistently go back to and play

Release date- September 16, 2003.

Consoles-PS2,XBOX,GAMECUBE, PC

2. Pokemon Red and Blue

Is Red and Blue the best Pokemon games? Nah. Are the the only ones I'm nostalgic for? Nah. As much as i love Gen 2 Pokemon games Gold and Silver, i just can't justify having them over Red and Blue. These are the games that got me into Pokemon, i was the Pokemon generation and these games are so important to my childhood i just couldn't leave them off. I was on the playground when kids went "Hey you know you can catch a mew by moving that truck" It pained me that it was never true and Justin's dad did not in fact work at Nintendo. Red and Blue have not held up as well as many other games on this list, and even when the complaint for newer games are "Well this is nothing new" They still add onto and improve upon the original formula, however Nostalgia is an incredibly powerful force and this game like few others has the ability to make me feel 5 again.

"Do you believe in ghost? Hahahaha, i guess not. That white hand on your shoulder, it's not real"

Release date- September 28, 1998

Console- Gameboy

Super Smash bros ultimate

Each new Smash bros game instantly becomes the new best Smash game (sorry, Melee fans) at least that's the case for the general public. Each new game updates and adds onto the previous game, Smash ultimate is a rare beast in that whatever comes after it, can't possibly top it. The next smash game will more than likely be a great game, much like all old smash bro games are, but the next smash won't be able to say "Everyone is here!" The amount of characters and stages really does feel like a once in a lifetime thing. You'll never be able to say "Let's play a round of smash, you'll be Pichu, you can be Snake, you can be Ken, and I'll be Sora" Ever again. Smash ultimate is a game i have fairly regularly gone back to play since it's release in December 2018. As of writing this now i have played Smash Ultimate for 535 hours, that's 22 days of my life spent playing this game, and i have no regrets. I'll boot it up only expecting to play a few minutes but then I'll start playing as one of 80 some characters i haven't give much attention to. Figuring their move set out, figuring out whether or not i want to make them a main or not. Each character feels unique, but the controls are simple enough you never feel overwhelmed stepping out of your comfort zone and maybe trying out a little mac if you're used to playing as a Mega Man. Sakuria and his team created one of the greatest fighting games of all time, a game that will be re-visited years after it's own release.

Release date- December 7th, 2018

Console- Switch

[rainywerewolfmoon]

Fairyland Reborn

Ao3 link here Fairyland Reborn - Chapter 2 - Princessmh9 - Original Work [Archive of Our Own]

Chapter 2: Before The Sun Set’s On Her Sixteenth Birthday

{The sun rose over the frozen wintry Fairyland, casting a soft, golden glow upon the castle, which was adorned with a layer of glistening frost. The air was crisp and filled with a sense of anticipation as the kingdom prepared for the grand birthday ball that would take place later that evening. Inside the castle, the halls were bustling with activity. Servants and fairies flitted about, making final preparations for the celebration. Elara's birthday was a momentous occasion, and no detail was too small to escape attention. The walls were adorned with shimmering icicles, and crystal chandeliers hung from the ceilings, refracting the morning light into a dazzling display of colors.

In the royal chambers, Genevieve and Ash were in the midst of getting ready for the day. Genevieve's gown was a vision of elegance, with its flowing skirts that resembled the soft petals of a winter rose. It was adorned with delicate frost-inspired embroidery, and her hair was styled in intricate braids that sparkled like freshly fallen snow. Ash, too, looked every bit the regal elf prince. His attire was a blend of tradition and contemporary style, with a silver circlet resting upon his brow. His eyes held a mix of determination and concern as he gazed at himself in the mirror.}

{Genevieve, as she fastens a silver necklace around her neck} Today is a big day, Ash. Not just for Elara, but for all of us.

{Ash, nodding} I know, my love. We're celebrating Elara's sixteenth birthday, and it's also the day that Queen Nocturnia said our daughter be cursed.

{Genevieve, her expression somber} I can't help but worry, Ash. The curse has haunted us for so long. What if something does go wrong with the ball?

{Ash, his voice filled with determination} We won't let anything go wrong, Genevieve. We've taken every precaution, and we have the support of our allies. We've planned for this day meticulously, and together, we will ensure Elara's safety.

{Genevieve, her eyes glistening with tears} I just wish we knew more about the curse, about how to break it.

{Ash, gently wiping away her tears} We'll keep searching for answers, my love. We won't stop until we find a way to free Elara from its grasp. We have the power of love on our side, and that's a formidable force.

{Genevieve, finding comfort in his words} You're right, Ash. Love will guide us, and together, we'll overcome this curse.

{As they finished dressing, they shared a heartfelt embrace, drawing strength from each other's presence. Their love and determination would be their greatest weapons in facing the challenges that lay ahead on this momentous day.}

{In her bedroom dressed in the dress that Apricot made Elara sits at her dressing table as her grandmother, Albina does her hair.}

{Albina} What's wrong, my dear? Why the long face?

{Elara, her gaze fixed on her reflection in the mirror, hesitated for a moment before speaking.}

{Elara, her voice tinged with worry} Grandma Albina, it's just... I can't stop thinking about the curse and what might happen today. What if something goes wrong during the ball, and I become Starlessia again?

{Albina continued to braid Elara's hair, her touch gentle and reassuring.}

{Albina, with a comforting smile} My sweet Elara, I understand your concerns, but you mustn't let fear consume you. The curse is a dark shadow from the past, but you are strong and filled with the light of love and hope. We will do everything in our power to protect you.

{Elara's eyes met her grandmother's in the mirror, seeking solace in her wisdom.}

{Elara, her voice wavering} But Grandma, what if we can't break the curse? What if I'm lost to the darkness forever?

{Albina, her voice firm and filled with conviction} We do not entertain such thoughts, my dear. We believe in your strength, in the love of your family, and in the magic that flows through Fairyland. We will fight the curse with all our might, and we will prevail.

{Elara nodded, her spirits lifting under her grandmother's unwavering confidence.}

{Elara, determined} You're right, Grandma Albina. I won't let fear control me. Today is a day of celebration, and I'll cherish every moment with my family and friends.

{Albina, smiling} That's the spirit, my dear. Now, your hair is done, and you look absolutely radiant. It's time to embrace this day with joy and love.

{As Elara and her grandmother shared a warm embrace, the young princess felt a renewed sense of determination and hope. With her family's support and unwavering love, she was ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead on her sixteenth birthday.}

{In the dark of the shadows lay the Court of Shadows, a realm steeped in darkness and mystery. In the misty, dark, shadowy throne room, King Sablethorn and Queen Nocturnia sat on their thrones, their expressions etched with determination. In the center of the room, a crystal ball rested upon a pedestal, its surface pulsating with an eerie, otherworldly light. The mist within it began to swirl and shift, coalescing into an image of the royal castle of Fairyland. As the mist cleared, the scene in the crystal ball revealed Princess Elara in her room, her fiery hair cascading down as her grandmother Albina attended to her. The image was a reflection of innocence and warmth, a stark contrast to the darkness that surrounded it.}

{Sablethorn, his voice low and foreboding, spoke with a sense of urgency.} The time has come, Nocturnia. The curse is reaching its zenith, and Princess Elara's fate hangs in the balance.

{Nocturnia, her eyes fixed on the crystal ball, nodded with a cold determination.} Indeed, Sablethorn. We cannot allow the princess to break free from the curse. She is the key to our power and our vengeance.

{The misty image in the crystal ball continued to show Elara, unaware of the malevolent forces watching her.}

{Sablethorn, his fingers tracing the rim of his shadowy throne, whispered with a chilling smile.} Let the darkness of the curse consume her, and let the shadows claim her soul. Today, Fairyland shall fall, and we shall rise.

{As the crystal ball continued to reveal the unfolding events in the castle, the Court of Shadows prepared to unleash their sinister plan, casting a long, ominous shadow over the realm of Fairyland. In the shadowy throne room, Nocturnia extended her hand towards the crystal ball, her fingers radiating with a dark, eldritch energy. She began to chant in a language long forgotten by the world of light and goodness. Her incantation was like a twisted lullaby, a melody of malevolence that resonated with the ancient curse. The crystal ball responded to her magic, amplifying her dark incantation. As she continued, the image of Elara in her room started to distort and warp, mirroring the impending doom that loomed over her.

Back in Elara's room, Albina sensed a disturbance in the magical forces around them. Her elven senses tingled with unease as she continued to weave Elara's hair into an intricate braid. Elara, unaware of the sinister plot unfolding, felt a shiver run down her spine. She glanced around the room, her eyes searching for something she couldn't quite name. In the Court of Shadows, the crystal ball's misty surface crackled with dark energy as Nocturnia's incantation reached its climax. Shadows swirled around her, enveloping her like a cloak of darkness.}

{Sablethorn's eyes gleamed with malevolent anticipation as he watched the crystal ball.} Now, my queen, unleash the curse upon the princess. Let the shadows consume her heart and soul.

{With a final, chilling verse of her incantation, Nocturnia released a surge of dark magic, sending it hurtling towards the crystal ball, and by extension, towards Elara. As the curse descended upon the unsuspecting princess, the room seemed to grow colder, and the once-inviting aura of the castle turned ominous. Elara's destiny hung in the balance as the malevolent forces of the Court of Shadows sought to fulfill their wicked plans.}

{As the sun hang high in the sky Fae and Folk and Royalty descended into the Garden for Elara’s Birthday Ball. The garden was transformed into a breathtaking winter wonderland for Elara's birthday ball. The ground was covered in a glistening blanket of pristine snow, and icicles hung from the branches of the trees like nature's own chandeliers. Twinkling fairy lights adorned the bushes and pathways, casting a soft, ethereal glow over the scene. Elara, wearing her exquisite birthday gown designed for the winter season, descended the grand staircase with her parents, Ash and Genevieve, by her side. She looked radiant, her starry eyes sparkling with anticipation, and her heart filled with hope amidst the winter chill.}

{Elara, her voice filled with excitement} It's so enchanting, Mama, Papa.

{Genevieve, her eyes filled with love} And it's all for you, my darling, even in the midst of winter's embrace.

{Ash, with a proud smile} You're the shining star of this winter's day, Elara.

{Aurora, Willow, and other members of the royal family joined them, their winter attire reflecting the splendor of the season. The guests, including King Thandor, Queen Elowen, and Prince Alden, arrived, their wings glistening with frosty beauty.}

{Aurora, smiling at Elara} You look absolutely radiant, dear Elara, amidst the winter's magic.

{Willow, teasing} I think Prince Alden will be quite captivated when he sees you, amidst the snowflakes.

{Elara, blushing} Oh, Willow, you always know how to tease.

{Oberon and Lindir step up onto a raised platform at the center of the winter garden, their voices commanding the attention of all the guests. The music fades, and a hushed silence falls over the crowd as they address the gathering.}

{Lindir} Ladies and gentlemen, royals and commoners, today we come together to celebrate a momentous occasion—the sixteenth birthday of my beloved granddaughter. As we stand here in the heart of our wintry realm, let us remember that this day is not just about one individual, but about the bonds that tie us together as a kingdom, as a family.

{He gestures towards Elara, who stands before him, resplendent in her celestial blue gown, a symbol of hope and courage.}

{Lindir} Elara, my dear granddaughter, you have grown into a beacon of light and strength in our land. Your kindness, your resilience, and your unwavering spirit inspire us all. As you embark on this new chapter of your life, know that you do not walk alone. Our family, our kingdom, and our magic stand with you.

{The crowd listens attentively, their hearts filled with warmth and anticipation.}

{Lindir} In the face of the curse that threatens us, we must remember the power of unity and love. Together, we can overcome any darkness that looms on our horizon. And together, we shall embark on a journey to break the curse that has cast its shadow upon our family for far too long.

{The guests nod in agreement, their determination mirrored in their eyes.}

{Lindir} So, let us not only celebrate the birth of a new year but also the birth of hope. Let us dance, let us rejoice, and let us believe in the magic that flows through Fairyland. For it is that magic, and the love we share, that will guide us on the path to reclaiming our family's destiny.

{The crowd bursts into applause and cheers, their spirits lifted by Lindir's words. Elara, standing beside him, feels a surge of gratitude for the support of her family and her kingdom. The music swells, and the festivities continue, as the kingdom of Fairyland comes together to celebrate and face the challenges that lie ahead. Willow walks up with excitement and mischief to Elara.}

{Willow} Don’t look now but Prince handsome wings is coming this way.

{Elara, blushing and trying to appear casual} Willow, please, stop teasing.

{Willow, grinning} I can't help it. It's not every day that Prince Alden pays such close attention to someone.

{As Prince Alden approaches, he wears a warm smile and bows gracefully to Elara.}

{Alden} Princess Elara, may I have the pleasure of this dance?

{Elara, feeling her heart flutter, curtsies gracefully in response.}

{Elara} I would be delighted, Prince Alden.

{Willow nudges Elara playfully as she takes Alden's hand, and they make their way to the dance floor.}

{Willow, whispering} Have fun, Little Star.

{Elara, her cheeks still flushed, gives her brother a playful smile before she and Prince Alden join the other couples on the dance floor. As the music begins, they start to dance, their graceful movements mirroring the enchantment of the winter ball. Genevieve smiles as she watches her daughter dance with Alden as Ash comes to stand by her side.}

{Genevieve playfully} Don’t look now Ash but your Little Star is dancing with that Fae Prince.

{Ash, grinning} Oh, I've noticed, my love. Our Little Star is growing up, and it seems Prince Alden has quite the admiration for her.

{Genevieve, teasing} You think he's fallen under her enchanting spell, just like you did with me?

{Ash, chuckling} Well, who could resist the charm of our daughter? But I have to admit, they make a splendid pair on the dance floor. Speaking of which {he bows to her} May I have this dance?

{Genevieve chuckling} You are just full of cheek ant you?

{Ash, offering his hand with a mischievous twinkle in his eye} Cheek and charm, my love. That's what you signed up for, isn't it?

{Genevieve, taking his hand with a playful smile} Indeed, and I wouldn't have it any other way.

{They join the other couples on the dance floor, their movements graceful and familiar, a testament to the stars they've spent together. As they dance, their love and laughter fill the air, Creating a moment of joy and enchantment in the midst of the winter ball.}

{Ash, as they dance} You know, my love, even in the midst of all the uncertainty and the looming curse, moments like these remind me of the beauty and magic of our world.

{Genevieve, resting her head on his shoulder as they twirl} Yes, Ash. It's in these moments that we find the strength to face the challenges that come our way. Our family, our love, and the bonds we share are our greatest treasures.

{They continue to dance, lost in each other's embrace, as the winter sun wraps around them, a testament to their enduring love and the hope they hold for their beloved daughter's future.}

{Ash, softly} Genevieve, no matter what happens, I want you to know that you are the light in my life, the one who has guided me through every storm.

{Genevieve, her eyes filled with emotion} And you, Ash, are the strength that has always held me up, even in the darkest of times. Our love is a force that can conquer any curse or adversity.

{They share a tender kiss on the dance floor, sealing their commitment to each other and their family. The music, the laughter, and the love of their world surround them, making this moment a treasured memory in their hearts.}

{Kendra stood at the edge of garden keeping a eye on the ball. She glanced up to were the sun was. She couldn’t help but notice the sun was lowering down the sky then normal.}

{Kendra} That’s odd. I better let Genevieve and Ash know about that.

{She heads off to let Genevieve and Ash know but missed the glowing eyes in the bush as Nixon the loyal dark elf servent of Sablethorn and Nocturnia watch her walk to the ball. Nixon, hidden in the shadows, chuckles softly to himself as he observes Kendra heading towards the ball. His plan to divert her attention seems to be working perfectly, and he knows that his masters, Sablethorn and Nocturnia, will be pleased. With a silent and sinister determination, he continues to watch from the darkness, ready to carry out their malevolent intentions.

{Alden, with a charming smile, gracefully twirls Elara around the dance floor. Their movements are fluid and enchanting, drawing the attention of the other guests. As they dance, Alden leans in to speak softly to Elara.}

{Alden} So your dad is he going to be mad that I am dancing with you?

{Elara} (smiling) Oh, Papa can be a bit protective, but he's also a fair judge of character. Besides, he knows you well enough, and he won't mind us dancing together.

{Alden} (grinning) That's a relief. I'd hate to be on his bad side, especially on your birthday.

{Elara} (giggling) Don't worry, Alden. You've always been a friend to our family. Papa will see that.

{Ash tapping Alden’s shoulder}

{Ash} May I steal a dance with my daughter, Prince Alden?

{Alden, stepping back with a smile} Of course Prince Ash.

{Elara curtsies to Alden before taking her father's hand, and they begin to dance together.}

{Elara, smiling up at her father} I'm having such a wonderful time, Papa. This ball is everything I hoped for.

{Ash, his eyes filled with warmth} I'm glad to hear that, Little Star. Today is all about you, and we wanted it to be perfect.

{As they twirl gracefully on the dance floor, Ash and Elara share a special father-daughter moment, cherishing the memories they're creating together.}

{Ash after twirling Elara} So has he been behaving himself Alden?

{Elara, smiling} Yes, Papa, he's been quite courteous. We had a pleasant conversation, and he understands that our dance is just a friendly gesture.

{Ash, nodding} That's good to hear, Elara. As long as everyone is enjoying themselves, that's what matters most.

{Elara, gazing at her father} Papa, thank you for not making a big deal out of Alden and me dancing together.

{Ash, with a warm smile} Elara, my love, I trust your judgment, and I know that you make wise choices. Plus, it's your special day, and I want you to be happy.

{Elara, touched, hugs her father tightly as they continue to dance. Genevieve watched with a smile as Lindir bows to her.}

{Lindir} My dear daughter in law may I have this dance?

{Genevieve curtsies playfully} Of course, my dear father-in-law. It would be my pleasure.

{Lindir takes Genevieve's hand, and they join the other couples on the dance floor, their movements graceful and elegant as they waltz to the music.}

{Lindir, smiling warmly} You know, Genevieve, I couldn't have asked for a better daughter in-law. You've brought so much happiness to our family.

{Genevieve, touched} Thank you, Lindir. I feel truly blessed to be a part of this family.

{Lindir, his eyes twinkling} And you've brought a radiant light into our lives. Elara is a testament to the love and care you and Ash have given her.

{Genevieve, her smile softening} She's a special girl, Lindir, and we're determined to protect her from any harm, especially tonight.

{Lindir, his expression growing serious} I understand your concerns, Genevieve. But let's not dwell on worries tonight. This is a celebration, after all. We'll keep a watchful eye on Elara, and together, we'll ensure nothing goes awry.

{Genevieve, grateful} You're right, Lindir. Tonight is about joy and celebration. Thank you for your wisdom and support. Let's make this day a memorable one for our beloved Elara.

{Kendra sees Genevieve dancing with Lindir and walks up to her.}

{Kendra} I am so sorry Genevieve but the sun is starting to set.

{Genevieve's face pales as she hears Kendra's words, and she quickly stops dancing with Lindir.}

{Genevieve, urgently} Kendra, are you certain? This is happening so soon. I need to find Ash and Elara immediately. The curse might be starting, and I can't let anything happen to our daughter. I am so sorry Lindir but I need to find them.

{Lindir, understanding the urgency, nods to Genevieve and lets her go. Genevieve rushes into the crowd, desperately searching for Ash and Elara. Genevieve looks up and gasps as she sees the sun about to start to set. Genevieve, her heart pounding, spots Ash talking to King Thandor. She rushes toward them.}

{Genevieve, urgently} Ash! We have to find Elara! The sunset is approaching faster than we thought. The curse might be starting!

{King Thandor, concerned} What's happening?

{Ash, alarmed, turns to Genevieve} Let's go, we need to find our daughter.

{He turns to look at Thandor}

{Ash} I am so sorry your Majesty. But I need to find my daughter right away.

{King Thandor, understanding the urgency, nods}

{King Thandor} Of course, Ash. Go and find her.

{Ash and Genevieve hurry through the garden looking for Elara.}

{In a quite section of the garden Elara was walking with Alden as they make small talk.}

{Alden} It's been a lovely day, Elara. Your sixteenth birthday celebration is truly magical, just like you.

{Elara, smiling} Thank you, Alden. I'm glad you could be here with us day. You've always been like family.

{Alden} Well, speaking of family, I noticed your father was a bit worried earlier. Is everything okay?

{Elara blushing} Papa was just worried you wouldn't treat me right.

{Alden, chuckling} Your father has every right to be protective, especially on such an important day. But I promise, Elara, I have the utmost respect for you. You mean the world to me, and I would never do anything to hurt you.

{Elara, smiling} I know, Alden. I trust you completely.

{Alden} That means the world to me, Elara. Now, let's forget about worries and enjoy this sunset.

{Elara shocked} Did you just say sunset?

{Alden} Yes. Look.

{He points to the sunset sky as Elara gasps in horror at this.}

{Elara, gasping} No, no, it can't be happening so soon! The curse...

{Alden, concerned} Elara, what's wrong? Why are you so frightened?

{Elara, panicking} The curse! It's supposed to happen when the sun sets on my sixteenth birthday, and that's now! Alden, I need you to get as far away from me.

{Alden determined} No, Elara, I won't leave you.

{Elara pushing him away} No you don’t understand Alden.

{Alden confused} What do I not understand?

{Elara closes her eyes and then opens it as her Sapphire eyes turn ruby red as Alden gasps in horror.}

{Alden, shocked} Elara, what's happening to you? Your eyes... they've changed.

{Elara, her voice trembling} Alden, please, you have to go. It's not safe for you to be near me right now. I don't know what will happen, but I fear for your safety.

{Alden, conflicted and concerned} I can't just leave you like this, Elara. We'll figure this out together.

{Elara, desperation in her voice} There's no time, Alden. You need to leave now, before it's too late. Please, promise me you'll stay safe.

{Alden, reluctantly} I promise, Elara. But I'll find a way to help you, I swear it.

{Elara, tears streaming down her face} Thank you, Alden. Now go, before... before something terrible happens.

{Alden runs away from Elara as she watches crying. She then clutches her heart as it starts to hurt. Elara stands there, clutching her chest as the pain intensifies. Her heart races, and she struggles to breathe. She looks around, panicked, as the curse begins to take hold. The world around her blurs, and she collapses to the ground, writhing in pain. The curse, long feared and now realized, starts to change her in ways she cannot comprehend.

As Elara writhes in pain on the ground, her ginger hair darkens, turning as black as the darkest shadows. It's a visible manifestation of the curse's influence, a stark transformation that signals the beginning of a dark and uncertain fate. The curse's magic continues to envelop her, reshaping her in ways that are both mysterious and foreboding. Elara's skin, once fair and radiant, takes on an eerie pallor, as if drained of life by the encroaching darkness. Her eyes, now a menacing ruby red, seem to pierce through the night with an unnatural intensity. The transformation is both startling and tragic, a stark contrast to the vibrant and lively girl she once was.

As the curse tightens its grip, Elara clutches her chest, feeling the pain intensify. It's as if her very essence is being consumed by the malevolent magic that has taken hold of her. She cries out in anguish, her voice echoing through the garden, a chilling sound that sends shivers down the spines of those who hear it. Genevieve and Ash look up scared as they hear the scream. Ash sees Alden rushing out of the garden maze. Ash grabs Alden by the arm, his face etched with concern, and his grip firm but not unkind.}

{Ash urgently} What happened out there? Where's Elara?

{Alden is panting, his eyes wide with fear as he tries to find the words to convey the shocking transformation he witnessed.}

{Alden stammering} Elara... Her eyes turned red....She told me to run so I ran.

{Genevieve, who has followed her husband, grips Alden's other arm, her eyes searching for answers.}

{Genevieve frantically} Where is she now?

{Alden shakes his head, tears in his eyes.}

{Alden} She's still in the garden, but I don't know what's happening to her.

{Ash's jaw tightens with determination.}

{Ash} Stay here Alden. Come on Genevieve let's find our daughter

{Genevieve nods, her heart pounding with fear and determination. She and Ash rush into the maze, the once-magical place now filled with an eerie darkness as the sun sets on Elara's sixteenth birthday. With each step, their worry for their daughter deepens, and they brace themselves for whatever they might find.}

As Elara stands on shaky legs, her screams fill the air once more. Her dress, once a symbol of elegance and grace, begins to transform in response to the curse. The fabric twists and contorts, changing colors and patterns as if it's alive. It's a chilling sight to behold as the curse takes hold of her. Elara's dress, once a beautiful and elegant gown, now bears the marks of the curse. The fabric has morphed into a sinister and ominous creation. It is now a deep, midnight black, resembling the color of the darkest shadows. Sinuous patterns of smoky gray and blood red swirl and coil around the dress like serpents, creating an eerie, almost hypnotic effect.

The once delicate lace and satin have transformed into jagged, thorn-like tendrils that snake across the gown. These thorns seem to writhe and pulse as if they have a life of their own. They give the impression of danger and malevolence, making anyone who gazes upon them shudder. The dress no longer flows gracefully but moves with an unsettling, unnatural motion, as if it's controlled by some unseen force. As Elara stands there, her dress now a manifestation of the curse, it is a haunting and nightmarish sight, a stark contrast to the innocence and beauty she once embodied. Elara's whole presence exudes an aura of darkness and foreboding, a stark departure from the innocent and joyful girl she once was. The curse has taken hold of her, and there is a sense of tragic inevitability about her transformation.

Genevieve and Ash rush to the center of the maze and gasp at the sight they saw. In the center of the maze, Genevieve and Ash are met with a heartbreaking sight. Elara, their beloved daughter, stands there, her form twisted and corrupted by the curse. Tears well up in Genevieve's eyes as she approaches her daughter, her heart heavy with grief and despair. Ash clenches his fists, his love for Elara overcoming his fear of the curse.}

{Genevieve worriedly} Elara?

{Starlessia laughing wickedly} Elara is gone forever. Starlessia is back and this time is here to stay here.

{Ash} We will not stop fighting to save our daughter.

{Starlessia laughing} Try as you might have you forgotten that if you try to stop me Elara will fall into a death like sleep that even that fae prince can't save her from.

{Starlessia's wicked laughter continues to echo through the maze as she revels in her newfound power. Genevieve and Ash exchange determined glances, understanding the grave situation they're in.}

{Genevieve her voice trembling with resolve} We won't let you harm our daughter, no matter the cost.

{Ash, equally determined, steps closer, his eyes locked on Starlessia} You underestimate the love of a parent. We will find a way to break this curse and free Elara.

{Starlessia's grin widens as she taunts them} You can try, but time is running out. The sun has set, and Elara's fate is sealed. Enjoy your futile efforts.

{As Starlessia's taunting laughter fades into the night, Ash and Genevieve are left standing in the garden, their hearts heavy with determination to rescue their daughter, Elara, from the clutches of darkness. The garden, once a place of celebration, is now shrouded in mystery and sorrow. With the night sky darkening and the first stars appearing, they gather their strength and resolve to embark on their quest. They know that time is of the essence, and they must find a way to break the curse that has transformed Elara into Starlessia.

The journey ahead will be perilous, filled with challenges, magic, and the unknown. They will need the support of their friends, the wisdom of their allies, and the love that binds their family together to overcome the malevolent forces at play. And so, Ash and Genevieve set forth on their quest to save their daughter, guided by the unwavering hope that they can bring back the light that once shone in Elara's eyes and banish the darkness that now threatens her. Their adventure has just begun, and the fate of their family hangs in the balance.}

[terrifictoonman]

[WP] The great evil lies scattered across his formless halls as the hero treads across bits of grime and ruin to reach its core self. Its voice a violent whisper “Wait, you’re not noble hero I fought before…?” The villains violence turns soft “No… what have you done?” [Reddit - u/AngryHumanThing] (12/09/23)

~Like Father~

Gavilon. A once noble kingdom with roots firmly in the past but always reaching for the future. All that remains is ruin as the land is overrun with sentient evil in the shape of tar. What few buildings remain intact ooze the tar from every window, door, and crack, flooding the streets.

The evil essence of the tar corrupts those unfortunate enough to be left in the kingdom. Plants were left in a state of permanent rot, people and animals were now violent husks of who they once were, and even the sky itself was consumed, trapping the kingdom in an endless downpour of tar.

At the center of the calamity was Castle Gavilon, somehow kept in pristine condition, at least on outward appearance. Inside, very little resembles a proper castle, more like the internal organs of a sickly beast. The remains of the fearless and noble knights that once guarded these hallowed halls are now immortalized, plastered against the floors, walls, and ceilings, like a gallery of fear.

A lone female figure walks through the distorted halls. Her sunken and bloodshot eyes were barely visible past her messy bleached blonde hair, her blackened veins clearly visible against her near-white skin, and what remained of her armor was damaged beyond repair along with her clothes.

As the woman walked, glowing violet eyes appeared around her, watching her.

"Who do we have here?" asked the tar. Its voice resembled a sickly man speaking while underwater. "Another husk of a knight looking for its fallen brethren? Be at peace. You will be with them soon." Tendrils shot out from the tar at the lone woman but stopped nearly inches from her. "What is this?!" The voice of the tar audibly grunted as it struggled to force the tendrils to take the woman.

"Hmmm," continued the tar, "this one must have used some sort of ward before her assimilation. Hehe, I could only imagine the look on your face once you realized your fate. Very well, you may continue your little outing, I have a hero to prepare for." The woman stopped in her tracks.

"You were always so dismissive," said the woman. "even with all of these eyes, you still can't see what's in front of you." Thousands of eyes filled the halls, staring intensely at the woman.

"That voice!" said the tar, "Princess Helena?" In front of the princess, the tar molded a basic humanoid form. "I thought...I...why have you returned?"

"Is that unease I hear?" said Helena. The tar man reached for Halena but reeled back in pain once it got too close. "What? Don't you recognize your own protection ward? Or did you truly believe it would not be used against you?"

"I see," said the tar, "you seek to destroy me, my own student."

"You'll find little sympathy here," said Helena. "Your hold over my home is done!"

"Hmmm, so you say," said the tar as its humanoid form melted into the floor. Halena continued to walk as the tar's eyes continued to follow her. "A lot has changed since you last were here, princess. As you can see, I no longer fight for control of the Eldrich Blood but have become one with it and learned of its true name. Soon, we shall spread across the lands, uniting them under the flag of Gavilon, true peace."

"So you say," mocked Helena.

"I understand that it may not be as you or your bumbling father may have wished," said the tar, "but the result is all the same. A true utopia!" Halena scoffs as she continues to wander. "You've been outside the walls. You've seen how chaotic and barbaric the rest of the world is! Would you rather have one of them strike us down and take our research, our advancements, our throne?"

"Our throne?" asked Halena. "Careful, your colors are showing."

"Don't be so nieve!" said the tar. "You know as well as I that even if you somehow managed to defeat me, the people wouldn't follow you, not for long anyways. I was the brains behind all of your father's success. Without me, you wouldn't have even been born! You wouldn't have been able to do magic! Hell, without me, you would just be another husk wandering the streets! You owe your life to me!" Halena stops again and turns to face a wall. She walks towards the wall, pushing away the tar with her ward. "What are you...?"

Halena punches the wall hard enough to create a massive hole. The tar screams in pain as the entire kingdom shakes violently.

"That's the problem with spellcasters," said Halena, "all that power and yet so frail. A cruel joke from the gods." Halena stepped through the hole, finding herself in the throne room. The long-dead husk of the queen rests on her throne next to the destroyed remains of the king's throne. Halena tightens her fist as she looks up to find an enormous pulsing violet orb strung up on the ceiling.

"Impossible," said the tar, "you shouldn't have been able to..."

"Haven't you learned by now?" asked Helena. Green-tinted tar begins to seep out from her arms, forming a disfigured long sword in her hand. "I defy the impossible!" The pulsing tar heart froze for a few seconds before continuing.

"No..." said the tar softly.

"It's about time you realized," said Helena. "all that knowledge, all that wisdom, all of that power, and yet you still let your emotions blind you to the truth, like I once did."

"What have you done?" begged the tar.

"What needed to be done to save the world from you!" said Helena as her hair turned black with green tips along with her eyes, black streaks going down her face like tears. "If it brings you any peace, I made sure her last moments were happy—a false memory of her reuniting with her parents in their saved kingdom. I even gave her a chance to say goodbye to you. Her last words...I can see why you treasured her so much. I only wish our reunion could have been even half as heartwarming..."

"...father."