#erik the apprentice

[mirroredmemoriez]

She is so older sister coded, I don’t know how to fully explain it but- Amanda just is.

Bonus image:

[motherdanger]

Sawtober 2023 | Day 03: Apprentice

Did you know that Brent Abbott and Daniel Matthews were supposed to appear in Saw: The Final Chapter in the Jigsaw survivors support group? Makes me think they were supposed to be the Pig Masks with Gordon at the end of the movie. (I blab about it here.)

Full prompt list here. 🐝

01 | 02 | 03 | 04 | 05 | 06 | 07 | 08 | 09 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 16 | 17 | 18 | 19 | 20 | 21 | 22 | 23 | 24 | 25 | 26 | 27 | 28 | 29 | 30 | 31

[xxbatmanb3y0ndxx]

daniel matthews from saw god why is matthew spelt like that i hate thst

[candiehearts]

You Are Were Everything

Paring: Scott Summers X F!Reader

Summary: Scott Summers was your happy ending, but it was not ever after. He was everything good in your life, and when you were met with a choice — you chose the easier option. Vengeance, hate, and self destruction.

Navigation — Other works!, Scott Summers M.List

Warnings: Mentions of Death, & Angst.

Taglist: Just ask to be added.

A/N: “Red” by Taylor Swift , If people want I’ll make PT2

“Mommy, are you and daddy in love?” You ask your mom, you’re small hands wrapping around hers while she bathed you. She poured water on you, rinsing you off. “Yes, why do you ask?” You took a moment to think before answering her question.

“Do you think anyone could love me like daddy loves you? Even though I’m different?” YOur mothers heart broke at the self doubt in your voice. You were just a little kid, and you shouldn't question whether or not you were lovable. However, that's the world you live in. “Baby, one day you are going to find someone who will love you like breathing air. And you will love them just the same, because despite your powers you are still human, and all humans love.”

—

That person was Scott Summers. The man you loved breathing. You met him when Charles Xavier offered you a teaching position at his school, and a spot on his team of X-Men. He was the first man besides your father that you truly felt loved by. It was pure and deep love that both of you felt.

—

“Scott, it's late, we shouldn't go out.” I looked around nervous that someone would see us while Scott started up his bike. “Live a little,” he offered me his hand and with that smile on his face I couldn’t say no. I hopped on, and held on tightly as he sped up the bike, laughing and loving the feeling of the wind. Maybe this was the moment I started to like him.

—

I popped my neck, sighing at the feeling of the pressure being released. I was with Raven, walking through the doors of the president's office. The man had sent Erik an invitation to try and make peace with him and any other mutants that had problems against him and his people. God, what a waste of time. Magneto sent us to decline his offer, something he could do himself.

I took a look at the president until my focus shifted to the other people in the room. Charles Xavier, the mind reader. Jean Grey, the professor's apprentice. Ororo Munroe, the badass with storm abilities. The newest member of their boyband, the wolverine.

Finally, Scott Summers.

—

“Looking for something to eat?” My gaze snapped to the man leaning on the door frame of the kitchen. The hour was late, and only me and a few other kids were awake, Well them, me, and apparently Scott. “Looking for an actual drink.”

I was restless all night, and it seems he caught on. “Come with me, I have a fridge in my room.” I gave a breath of relief before following him. A comfortable silence between us.

I closed his door, not wanting anyone to see us, while he grabbed two beer bottles and an opener. “Wanna talk about it?” No, not to him. I couldn’t tell him that he was haunting my dreams.

“Just been anxious recently. What about you?” He took a sip, and looked to be thinking. Deciding on whether or not to tell me. An answer I waited patiently for.

He placed his beer on his bedside table, before grabbing mine and doing the same. Before I could ask what he was doing he flipped off his lamp, letting darkness fill the room. Only the moon that passed the curtains showcasing our faces.

“I’d feel better doing this in the dark, in case it doesn't go the way I want it too.”

“In case what doesn't –” My voice was cut off with his lips. He was kissing me so softly, and it was everything I imagined and more. The way his hand gently held my face, the way I held his hands and kissed him back. The way he pulled away and whispered, “I love you.” Or the way I whispered the same way words back.

—

I looked away from him, closing my eyes as unwanted memories came rushing in. Seeing him hurt. It ached. “We're here on behalf of magneto. He wishes to decline your request for peace.” The president sighed, almost regretfully, causing me to be more alert of the way some guards grabbed onto their guns.

“I was hoping that wouldn’t be the case. You see I don’t want a war, but I will protect my people no matter the cost.”

I couldn’t help but laugh. His people, what a fucking joke.

—

“I’m sorry I can’t come with you.” I gave Scott a kiss, dismissing his worries. “It’s okay red. Go help that kid.” He gave me another kiss before handing me his keys.

“Take my car.” I took a hold of him, giving him a final hug before he made his way to the ship. Me and Scott were supposed to visit my parents today, but a little kid – a mutant – needed help and Charles asked Scott to go and get him.

I drove out of the school, watching as the jet flew above the clouds. My parents loved Scott so I’m sure they would be upset he won’t be with me, but he promised to come before the weekend was over. So I wasn’t too worried.

When I did finally get to my parents house all the lights were off, and it was raining. Maybe the power was out. I pushed the key into the house and made my way in. Finding it empty with my parents not inside.

“Mom! Dad! I’m home. You’re gonna hate it but Scott isn’t with me.” I flipped on the living room light, and the patio lights as well. It was dark, but once the light flickered on I had a perfect view of the back yard.

I dropped my keys, my heart pounding in my ears. I pushed the doors open rushing out where two bodies laid. Dead.

“No no no no no no. Daddy?” I felt my heart shatter, and my tears fall as I tried to pick up my dad. He wouldn’t move, why wasn’t he moving? “Daddy? It’s me. It’s your little girl.” I kissed his cheek, praying to whatever lord there was for my dad to wake up.

Thunder struck and the light gave me a better view of my mother. Blood was all over her

clothes, and her eyes were open – but dead. “Mommy?” My voice cracked. I pulled her over to me and my dad, holding them both in my arms.

“Please, please, wake up. I need you both. I need my mommy and daddy. Please. Somebody help me.” My voice faded into a broken whisper. “Somebody help me.”

“It was the police.” I snapped my blurry gaze to the voice. Erik. The professor would talk about him. “I found this inside the woman's hand.” I reached for the paper handed out to me. It was my mother’s hand writing.

‘The police has been harassing us about you and the school you teach. Me and your father wish not to worry you, but if you read this then we're probably dead. I love you so much, me and your dad love you more than trees love water. You're a little girl, and though we may be gone physically we will always be with you. In your heart. Your father is so proud of you, as am I. Surprisingly your father has been talking to me about when you are getting married. For the first time your father thinks a boy is right for you. I love you so much, and I’m sorry we couldn’t stick around longer.’

My heart stopped as I re-read her letter. A tear falling onto the paper and wetting it. At this moment I felt my heart turn cold. I slowly looked to Erik, “I want the officers that did this.” I am going to kill them.

–

“Your people? My parents were your people, I was your people. Even the people at Xaviers school are your people. You singled them out – you know what's even funnier?” I forced the guards to be pinned to the wall, dark gray energy forcing them to stay there. “My parents were ‘normal’, you just killed them because they birthed a mutant.

“I command you to stay down, as your president I am commanding you to drop my men. Or else.” I pushed his chest, flying him to be pinned to the wall next.

“Or else what? Listening you talk has been torture enough.”

“Y/N, listen to me. Stand down. Don’t do this in front of Scott.”

I paused, slowly looking at the professor then at him. I released the people, watching cyclops release a breath.

I hated that no matter how much I try – he’s always the one pulling me back. I needed him gone. Erased from my mind.

“You don’t know what you're asking. Scott is the only thing that’s keeping your humanity in check.”

The problem is, I don’t think I can live a second longer knowing the life I used to have. Knowing I use to have him, and now I’m just one of his villains. Not the love of his life.

I’ll leave Erik behind. You can even tell me that you erased a part of my life, and that leaving Erik was a part of the deal. Just help me Charles. I need help, I’m in too much pain.

Raven passed out and dropped to the floor, as well as everyone else but me and Charles. I walked over to his chair and crouched down low for him. His hand went beside my head, not touching but I could feel him snooping in my brain. I saw his eyes tear up before he spoke.

“You are lost, and one day you will find your way again.”

Flashes of my life with Scott passed through my mind. Waking up with him, going on drives, missions, getting dinner. Every laugh, every kiss, every ‘I love you’. And eventually it all went black.

Charles pulled away from me, and then he asked me a question I didn’t know the answer to.

“Who is Scott Summers?”

My chest ached at the name, and I couldn’t figure out why. “I have no idea who you're talking about.” I stood up straight, and started to walk towards the door, knowing I’m missing something.

My feet stopped at a person laying on the ground unconscious. I leaned down to him, brushing a piece of hair out his face.

“Do you know this person.”

I couldn’t place his face anywhere, but my body recognized the feel of his lips as I traced them.

“No.”

I stood up again, “Thank you professor.” He nodded at me, and his voice echoed in my head as I walked out.

“I’ll see you soon.”

—

© CandieHearts

[fandomnerd9602]

Arranged

Princess!Wanda Maximoff x Male Reader

Thanks to @aloneodi for the prompt!

Wanda hated this arrangement. Marriage between her family, House Maximoff and it's closest neighbor House (L/N). It was a disaster in her mind.

Not only would she have to marry a man she just met but what she had heard about the crown prince of the house was even worse. Rumors had circulated that the crown prince was a womanizer, a prince who would chase all the maids and young women of the land.

"I refuse!" she stated before her father King Erik.

"I beg your pardon?" the monarch asked in response.

"I refuse to be married to some man who will not respect me. A man who would only see me as another notch in his bedpost." Wanda stated defiantly. "Mother raised me to be better than that! I refuse to be the prince's wife!"

"Our nation is on the brink of war with House Stark" the king argued, "in case of attack, we need allies and House (L/N) is our only option."

"What about Pietro?"

"He's pledged to take the throne, along with his betrothed Lady Crystal. Will you at least meet your betrothed?"

Wanda huffed, there wasn't much a choice. She simply nodded. Quickly, she went to her room and changed into some civilian attire.

"Please tell me you're not planning on running away" Natasha, her protector, waltzes in.

"I need some fresh air and some new paints. will my guard care to join me?" Wanda asks her oldest friend.

"I'd be beheaded if I said no" Natasha smirks as she quickly takes off her armor and slips on a cloak.

Wanda loved to see her kingdom, but the only way to remain safe was to go in disguise. Her favorite stop was the painter's shop. New colors and variations for her artwork, it was like being able to create new worlds with the stroke of a paintbrush.

She and Natasha stepped into the shop to find a new customer talking with the owner, purchasing a vial of scarlet red paint. Wanda ran to the back of the store to find the same color. But lo and behold, it was gone.

"Thank you so much" the new customer called out.

"Wait!" Wanda called out as she ran back to the front, "I need that color!"

"Scarlet?" the customer looked at her curiously. "you paint?"

"Yes. What is it unusual for a woman to love to paint?"

"Not in my mind." he smiles before handing it to her, "I was going to paint some roses but I think violets are better in bloom this season"

"Thank you" Wanda fishes for some coins, "allow me to pay you what-"

"Think nothing of it" the customer smiles, "I have all I could need. Pleasure meeting you miss-"

"Wanda" she found herself blushing. Natasha raised an eyebrow, finally someone to get straight to her heart.

"I'm Y/N" the customer smiles, "or at least that's what father calls me when he's not angry"

"And what do you do?"

"A-Apprentice mostly" Y/N shyly replied. "Still learning. But I play the lute and write poetry"

"I love to paint and writing song lyrics" Wanda lets out a chuckle. "I hope to see you again, Y/N"

"As I hope to see you as well, miss Wanda" Y/N replies before offering a bow and heading out.

Natasha lets out a little laugh, "you should've seen your face, Wanda. Your corset looked ready to drop"

"Shut your mouth" Wanda blushed as she walked back to the castle.

She walked into the throne room to see her father talking with a cloaked figure. The two were sharing a little laugh.

"I must've misunderstood the letter" King Erik laughs, "so no marriage required"

"Your majesty" a similar voice answers back, "my family is built on the Knight's Code. Despite what my brother's womanizing actions may say. I would rather have friends than a forced marriage"

Wanda approached the two, trying to be as quiet as a mouse. The king turned to her, "darling you must meet Prince Y/N"

"Y/N?" Wanda looked to the hooded figure who pulled down his hood revealing the friendly customer from before. The two young royals found themselves gasping.

Y/N couldn't wipe off the smile forming on his face.

"But-! How?"

"Your majesty" Y/N bows before her, "It appears our next meeting was sooner than we would think."

"Were you tricking me?" Wanda eyed the prince.

"Never ma'am." Y/N explained, 'I like to visit potential allies as a servant, i can get more places as such."

"So you're the one I am to marry?"

"I-If that is your wish" Y/N blushes

"You're not a womanizer"

"That's my older brother" Y/N huffs, "My mom raised me better than that."

"You're not an apprentice" Wanda giggled.

"I am actually. An apprentice monarch" Y/N laughs, "and I am still learning."

"Perhaps you could show me some of your poems," Wanda offered the young prince.

Y/N holds out his elbow to her, "only if you'll show me your paintings."

Wanda found herself blushing again. She looked to her guard who gave her the thumbs up.

The two young royals walked off arm in arm. Maybe there would be a marriage some day, for Wanda and Y/N. But for now, their kingdoms were safe and a blossoming love could take the time to fully bloom.

THE END.

[book--brackets]

The Wicked + the Divine by Kieron Gillan (2014-2019)

Every ninety years, twelve gods incarnate as humans. They are loved. They are hated. In two years, they are dead. The team behind critical tongue-attractors like Young Avengers and PHONOGRAM reunite to create a world where gods are the ultimate pop stars and pop stars are the ultimate gods. But remember: just because you’re immortal, doesn’t mean you’re going to live forever.

The Checquy Files by Daniel O'Malley (2012-2022)

"The body you are wearing used to be mine." So begins the letter Myfanwy Thomas is holding when she awakes in a London park surrounded by bodies all wearing latex gloves. With no recollection of who she is, Myfanwy must follow the instructions her former self left behind to discover her identity and track down the agents who want to destroy her.

She soon learns that she is a Rook, a high-ranking member of a secret organization called the Chequy that battles the many supernatural forces at work in Britain. She also discovers that she possesses a rare, potentially deadly supernatural ability of her own.

In her quest to uncover which member of the Chequy betrayed her and why, Myfanwy encounters a person with four bodies, an aristocratic woman who can enter her dreams, a secret training facility where children are transformed into deadly fighters, and a conspiracy more vast than she ever could have imagined.

Tea Dragon by K. O'Neill (2017-2021)

From the award-winning author of Princess Princess Ever After comes THE TEA DRAGON SOCIETY, the beloved and charming all-ages book that follows the story of Greta, a blacksmith apprentice, and the people she meets as she becomes entwined in the enchanting world of tea dragons. After discovering a lost tea dragon in the marketplace, Greta learns about the dying art form of tea dragon care-taking from the kind tea shop owners, Hesekiel and Erik. As she befriends them and their shy ward, Minette, Greta sees how the craft enriches their lives--and eventually her own. 

The Dark Is Rising by Susan Cooper (1965-1977)

When the Dark comes rising, six shall turn it back, three from the circle, three from the track; wood, bronze, iron; water, fire, stone; five will return, and one go alone.” 

With these mysterious words, Will Stanton discovers on his 11th birthday that he is no mere boy. He is the Sign-Seeker, last of the immortal Old Ones, destined to battle the powers of evil that trouble the land. His task is monumental: he must find and guard the six great Signs of the Light, which, when joined, will create a force strong enough to match and perhaps overcome that of the Dark. Embarking on this endeavor is dangerous as well as deeply rewarding; Will must work within a continuum of time and space much broader than he ever imagined.

The Bloody Chamber and Other Stories by Angela Carter (1979)

In The Bloody Chamber - which includes the story that is the basis of Neil Jordan's 1984 movie The Company of Wolves - Carter spins subversively dark and sensual versions of familiar fairy tales and legends like "Little Red Riding Hood," "Bluebeard," "Puss in Boots," and "Beauty and the Beast," giving them exhilarating new life in a style steeped in the romantic trappings of the gothic tradition.

Innkeeper Chronicles by Ilona Andrews (2013-2022)

On the outside, Dina Demille is the epitome of normal. She runs a quaint Victorian Bed and Breakfast in a small Texas town, owns a Shih Tzu named Beast, and is a perfect neighbor, whose biggest problem should be what to serve her guests for breakfast. But Dina is...different: Her broom is a deadly weapon; her Inn is magic and thinks for itself. Meant to be a lodging for otherworldly visitors, the only permanent guest is a retired Galactic aristocrat who can’t leave the grounds because she’s responsible for the deaths of millions and someone might shoot her on sight. Under the circumstances, "normal" is a bit of a stretch for Dina.

And now, something with wicked claws and deepwater teeth has begun to hunt at night...Feeling responsible for her neighbors, Dina decides to get involved. Before long, she has to juggle dealing with the annoyingly attractive, ex-military, new neighbor, Sean Evans—an alpha-strain werewolf—and the equally arresting cosmic vampire soldier, Arland, while trying to keep her inn and its guests safe. But the enemy she’s facing is unlike anything she’s ever encountered before. It’s smart, vicious, and lethal, and putting herself between this creature and her neighbors might just cost her everything.

The Sisters Grimm by Michael Buckley (2005-2012)

For Sabrina and Daphne Grimm, life has not been a fairy tale. After the mysterious disappearance of their parents, the sisters are sent to live with their grandmother--a woman they believed was dead! Granny Relda reveals that the girls have two famous ancestors, the Brothers Grimm, whose classic book of fairy tales is actually a collection of case files of magical mischief. Now the girls must take on the family responsibility of being fairy tale detectives.

Lumatere Chronicles by Melina Marchetta (2008-2012)

Finnikin of the Rock and his guardian, Sir Topher, have not been home to their beloved Lumatere for ten years. Not since the dark days when the royal family was murdered and the kingdom put under a terrible curse. But then Finnikin is summoned to meet Evanjalin, a young woman with an incredible claim: the heir to the throne of Lumatere, Prince Balthazar, is alive.

Evanjalin is determined to return home and she is the only one who can lead them to the heir. As they journey together, Finnikin is affected by her arrogance . . . and her hope. He begins to believe he will see his childhood friend, Prince Balthazar, again. And that their cursed people will be able to enter Lumatere and be reunited with those trapped inside. He even believes he will find his imprisoned father.

But Evanjalin is not what she seems. And the truth will test not only Finnikin's faith in her . . . but in himself.

Damar by Robin McKinley (1982-1984)

Harry Crewe is an orphan girl who comes to live in Damar, the desert country shared by the Homelanders and the secretive, magical Hillfolk. Her life is quiet and ordinary-until the night she is kidnapped by Corlath, the Hillfolk King, who takes her deep into the desert. She does not know the Hillfolk language; she does not know why she has been chosen. But Corlath does. Harry is to be trained in the arts of war until she is a match for any of his men. Does she have the courage to accept her true fate?

The Chronicles of the Black Company by Glen Cook (1984-2000)

Some feel the Lady, newly risen from centuries in thrall, stands between humankind and evil. Some feel she is evil itself. The hard-bitten men of the Black Company take their pay and do what they must, burying their doubts with their dead. 

Until the prophesy: The White Rose has been reborn, somewhere, to embody good once more. There must be a way for the Black Company to find her... 

[pitbullwithaship]

I'm currently in a return of the rangers apprentice hyperfixation/phase/whateveracallit and yknow what I would love if somebody would write? Because I haven't found any? So if you see them then give me the link please? Bit if you don't somebody needs to write this? I need a fanfiction where like the rangers apprentice gang travels to Skandia to visit or something and they meet the Herons and stuff. It should include:

- Gilan being there and being very happy to see his friends

- Erik being proud of Hal and Will both and bragging about them both

- Halt and Thorn being besties

- Kloof

- Lydia impressing Halt

- Stig impressing everybody

- All the Herons impressing all the Araluens and vice versa

- Karina being an Araluen and former slave because that isn't talked about enough

- casual mention of "-oh the peace treaty with the Temujai" "IM SORRY WHAT? HOW?" "How do you think" (Hal of course)

[anxiousnerdwritings]

💕Love Letter WIPs💕

DC

Yandere Brother!Bruce Wayne to sibling!Reader dating Guy Gardner (platonic)

Yandere Bruce Wayne to Unwilling!Biological!Kid!Reader who becomes Deathstroke’s apprentice (platonic)

Yandere Bruce Wayne to Horror!Author!Reader (platonic)

Yandere Step!Dad!Bruce Wayne to Step!Child!Reader (platonic)

Yandere Connor Kent (romantic)

Yandere Damian Wayne to Jokerized!Twin!Reader (platonic)

Yandere Arkhamverse!Riddler/Edward Nygma (romantic)

Yandere Beast Boy/Garfield Logan (romantic)

Yandere Jason Todd to Horror!Author!Reader (romantic)

Yandere Joker to Horror!Author!Reader (platonic)

Yandere Stalker!Batwoman/Kate Kane (romantic) [TW: self harm]

Yandere Lena Luthor to Fem!Horror!Author!Reader (romantic)

Yandere Talia al Ghul to Damian’s Twin!Reader (platonic)

Yandere Ted Grant (romantic)

Yandere Ted Grant to Biological!Kid!Reader (platonic)

Yandere Inertia/Thaddeus Thawne to Bart’s Civilian!Friend!Reader (romantic)

Yandere Wally West to Hero!Reader (platonic)

Marvel

Yandere Daken/Akihiro to Logan’s Platonic!darling!Reader (platonic)

Yandere Erik Lehnsherr (platonic)

Yandere Mom!Emma Frost to Child!Reader (platonic)

Yandere Frank Castle (platonic)

Yandere Blob/Fred Dukes (romantic) {angsty}

Yandere Kraven the Hunter to Escaped!Darling!Reader (romantic)

Yandere Brother!Wolverine/Logan Howlett to Surrogate!Sibling!Reader (platonic)

Yandere Toad/Mortimer Toynbee to Villain!Reader (romantic)

Yandere Teacher!Natasha Romanoff to College!Student!Reader

Yandere Peggy Carter (platonic)

Yandere Fanboy!Peter Maximoff to Musician!Reader (romantic)

Yandere Thor Odinson to Child!Reader (platonic)

Yandere Sabertooth/Victor Creed (platonic)

Yandere Doctor Doom/Victor von Doom to Unwilling!Child!Reader (platonic)

Game of Thrones/ASOIAF

Yandere Robert Baratheon to Friend!Reader (platonic)

Yandere Cersei Lannister to Baratheon!Reader (romantic)

Yandere Cersei Lannister to Joanna!lookalike!Reader (platonic) COMPLETED/POSTED

Yandere Oberyn Martell to Stark!Reader pt2 (platonic)

Yandere Rhaella Targaryen (romantic)

Yandere Grandpa!Tywin Lannister to Joanna!lookalike!Reader (platonic)

Yandere Alicent Hightower to Viserys’!Sickly!Brother!Reader (romantic) COMPLETED/POSTED

Yandere Aegon II Targaryen to Septa!Reader (romantic)

Yandere Daemon to his and Rhea’s child!Reader (platonic)

Yandere Helaena Targaryen to Handmaiden!Reader (romantic)

Yandere Maegor the Cruel (romantic)

Other

Yandere Severus Snape to Lily!lookalike!Reader (platonic) [Harry Potter]

Yandere Draco Malfoy to Hufflepuff!Reader (romantic) [Harry Potter]

Yandere Brother!Regulus Black to thirdborn!sibling!Reader (platonic) [HarryPotter/Marauders Era]

Yandere Mariano Guzman to Madrigal!Reader (romantic) [Encanto]

Yandere Klaus Mikaelson to Escaped!Reader (romantic) [The Orginials]

Yandere Bela Dimitrescu (romantic) [Resident Evil]

Yandere Stalker!Donatello (romantic) [TMNT]

Yandere Galadriel to Human!Reader (romantic) [Lord of the Rings]

(+some anime love letters from my sideblog)

[queereads-bracket]

Queer Fantasy Books Bracket: Round 2

Book summaries below:

The Priory of the Orange Tree by Samantha Shannon

A world divided. A queendom without an heir. An ancient enemy awakens. The House of Berethnet has ruled Inys for a thousand years. Still unwed, Queen Sabran the Ninth must conceive a daughter to protect her realm from destruction – but assassins are getting closer to her door. Ead Duryan is an outsider at court. Though she has risen to the position of lady-in-waiting, she is loyal to a hidden society of mages. Ead keeps a watchful eye on Sabran, secretly protecting her with forbidden magic. Across the dark sea, Tané has trained to be a dragonrider since she was a child, but is forced to make a choice that could see her life unravel. Meanwhile, the divided East and West refuse to parley, and forces of chaos are rising from their sleep. Fantasy, secondary world, epic fantasy, romance, adult

The Tea Dragon Society by K. O'Neill

From the award-winning author of Princess Princess Ever After comes The Tea Dragon Society, a charming all-ages book that follows the story of Greta, a blacksmith apprentice, and the people she meets as she becomes entwined in the enchanting world of tea dragons. After discovering a lost tea dragon in the marketplace, Greta learns about the dying art form of tea dragon care-taking from the kind tea shop owners, Hesekiel and Erik. As she befriends them and their shy ward, Minette, Greta sees how the craft enriches their lives—and eventually her own. Graphic novel, middle grade, fantasy, dragons

[pencilofawesomeness]

Hello! Hope your having a good day! I had some questions about the Tenrou Arc of your HTRYDS series and some other things. I absolutely love it, btw. Now any other FT fic I read is being filtered through the lens of your writing.

First things first, the outside interference. It was stated that only Fairy Tail members can find Tenrou Island. Yet, the Rune Knights somehow found it. Granted, Doronbolt/Mest was there pretending to be Mystogan's apprentice but it's not as if they put a tracker on him (or did they?) to find it.

At one point I thought that it had an invisibility spell around it that only allowed those who have the guild mark to see it but it just didn't make sense. But maybe it's just that you have to know /precisely/ where it is to get there, otherwise you just can't find it.

It would explain how Zeref is able to visit Mavis' grave, how Precht was able to go back there with his dark guild because I sincerely doubt he still had his Fairy Tail mark and even how an exiled Laxus managed to turn up in time. Even Canon Acnologia was probably there to have a fight with Zeref and was honing in on his magic. Just wondering how exactly the mass migration to a supposedly unfindable (is that a word?) island happened in your universe?

Next, will Zeref be there? I saw an old ask saying that Acno would have gotten rid of him in order not to endanger his guildmates but I have a (rather weak) counter point. Acno has seen him on Tenrou multiple times and knows he's usually somewhat stable when he's there. Also, he didn't let Natsu know about these encounters and as far as I remember it upset Natsu greatly when it finally came to light. So he probably wouldn't, just to give Natsu an opportunity for closure.

Having Zeref there is also an amazing opportunity to brandish the Sad Boi Stick at the maximum amount of people at the same time. There's of course Natsu with his multitude of issues, than there's Gray with his Deliora related trauma and meeting the guy who made it is going to be rough. Not to forget Erik and Erza with the whole Tower of Heaven trauma package. And you just know Jellal is going to recognize him as the guy who un-mind-controlled (again, is this a word?) him and then find out he's /the/ Zeref and promptly double the amount of angst he experiences. Just all around bad vibes.

On that note, I had this image in my head after that one chapter of Demon Tails that just really fits in this arc I think.

Levy, continuosly slapping Zeref: that's for turning Natsu into a demon *slap*, that's for abandoning your little brother *slap*, that's for the R-system *slap*, that's for traumatizing Jellal *slap*, that's for making Deliora *slap*, that's for Gray's Master Ur *slap*, that's for Erza *slap*, that's for Erik *slap*, that's for being a lousy father to your child *slap*, that's for all the cultists *slap*, that's for...

Acnologia in the background to Gajeel: She'll make a fine daughter-in-law one day.

Another thing, if not Zeref, can it be Larcade there? Maybe at the same time even? It would make one fine Dragneel family reunion. Maybe he just wanted to know where his father always goes on one particular date? Maybe he got interested who his mother was and decided to do a little ancestry research? Maybe he just wanted to see his uncle again? I don't know, I just really want that child to have some familial love and support.

Also, Loke! I really want to find out more about this kitty. I'm so happy you are making him more person shaped. But in more relevance to this arc my question is: will he somehow get a clue to the whole Anksheram situation? If he does, will he tell Natsu? I just really want him to be relevant to the plot and not just be another name to memorize and promptly forget. He had the potential to be so interesting, I'm glad you're doing him justice.

Also, if you could share some headcanons about My Boi Freed? That would be great!

Sorry for the long ask! Feel free to ignore any questions you don't like. I was just thinking about this AU for some time now and needed to get this off my chest. Take care of yourself! 😘

Fam I straight up lost/forgot about this (I am so bad at remembering asks sometimes and then I Feel Bad I haven't answered and take even longer to reply I am so so sorry)

I presume that it's not impossible to find, just hard. Like dragons finding the dragon nest sort of thing: Fairy Tail members can feel the pull of magic, but anybody else would be lost if they didn't know what they are looking for. Mavis probably has a soft form of cloaking on the island but it's also a whole-ass island so you can only hide it so well. I presume Zeref just knows where it is now and can teleport to it, and the Rune Knights could communicate with Mest/Doranbolt so they probably cheesed some directions that way. Then Acnologia can track magic itself I imagine, so he seemed to be chasing Zeref and Zeref happened to be on Tenrou. Then of course Grimoire Heart got there because Precht would have known from before.

As for how it will go in HTRYDS, there will be distinctly less mass migration from outside sources for a multitude of reasons lol. However Zeref will absolutely be there. I promise you I too have thought of all of those fun juicy bits that his presence will bring and I am so ready for it :D

I agree Levy should totally get to yell at him in nerd to nerd warfare. The battle of scripts, if you will. If I end up writing a confrontation in it'll be your fault <3

Oh trust me Loke wormed his way into being an integral part of the plot. And he *is* learning to be more communicative; it's a work in progress but we coming along. As for the Ankhseram situation, she's a bit harder for him to spot then Seun because Loke never knew her personally. However, he does definitely exist for me to reveal plot points from time to time ahahaha. Perks of having an ancient guy in the cast.

Freed headcanons, hm? I gotta figure out which ones aren't spoilers ahahaha. I guess the Obvious one that isn't really a spoiler with how many times I hint at it is that he's half-demon, half-human. He has a complex about it. In the looser, more fun sense, he has rich boy vibes and he custom-tailors all of his clothes. He runs on the cold side which is how he gets away with wearing a heavier coat literally all the time, and his icy little hands never get sweaty around his sword. He's stereotypical in the sense that he enjoys classical music and that's all he listens to; he tried to get into rock because of Laxus but he failed. (It'll grow on him eventually though.) He loves to read and he absolutely reads cheesy romance fiction of all sexualities; he cries at all of the emotional parts. He's also the guy who orders vanilla at the ice cream parlor, though he can be heckled into being experimental.

[nerdywriter36]

for the fanfic title ask game:

a jack of all trades (is a master of none)

thank you for the ask, aster!

Pre-canon: Erik had played many parts over the course of his short life. A son (not a very good one), a circus act (against his will and never good enough, if his beatings were any indication), and a stonemason's apprentice (one that failed his master and had his daughter's blood on his hands). He had worn so many hats, had had so many titles, and yet, none had suited him, no matter what it was. Perhaps this new task, being the shah's assassin, was the one that he would finally find success with.

Find the original post for this ask game here!

[burnwater13]

Concept art by Christian Alzmann and Erik Tiemens, of the Seeing Stone on Tython. Image from The Mandalorian, Season 2, Episode 6, The Tragedy.

“No, Grogu, we don’t have enough room for one.” 

The Mandalorian looked at his petite apprentice and sighed. They had been arguing for over an hour and nothing was going to change his mind.

Grogu grumbled at him and pouted.

“Buddy, like I told you when you first brought this up, we don’t actually have enough land to build it. That’s just the way it is.”

Grogu continued to pout, turned around, and stomped out of the cabin. It was all the Mandalorian could do to not laugh out loud. He’d learned the hard way that Grogu never forgot a slight. 

There was the time that Din Djarin had told the little one that he couldn’t have another fresh frozen froglet because it would upset his stomach. Grogu hadn’t been happy about that, but he grudgingly agreed. Then, as the Mandalorian was clearing the table, he tripped over nothing and the one container that went flying was the one with the frogs. Of course Grogu managed to reach it before Din could and of course Grogu ate the froglets as quickly as he could. The next morning Grogu was groaning because he had a stomach ache and didn’t want to do his lessons. 

But this time his apprentice had to understand that, even if they had the land, the time, the equipment, a much, much larger ship, Nevarro still didn’t have anything like the history with the Force that Tython had. The Seeing Stone and it’s megaliths would never work here the way they worked there. Din Djarin was certain of it. 

Grogu, for his part, was just as adamant that he could make it work. 

It was true that Grogu had done some amazing things with the Force. Things that Din Djarin couldn’t explain. But, despite that, he still didn’t think that Grogu was being reasonable when he asked if they could rebuild the Tython temple in their yard on Nevarro. It just seemed like a bad idea to him. Grogu did not agree.

It all started innocently enough. Grogu commented that he’d like to take a trip to Tython. The Mandalorian asked him why and Grogu said he really hadn’t seen very much of the planet and there was supposed to be an abandoned Jedi temple there and maybe if he found it he could tell Luke about it and Luke could use that one for his school rather than the one on Ossus.

“I thought you liked Ossus?”

Din had heard enough about the planet to feel like he had traveled all around it, rather that just spending part of a day there and then being turned away by Ahsoka Tano without ever getting to speak with Grogu. 

Grogu had grunted and sighed.

“Does he know you call it ‘Luke’s Jedi Sleep Away Camp’?”

Grogu had giggled. The Mandalorian loved that sound. It meant everything to him. The joy and happiness of childhood encapsulated in a single sound.

“Okay. I understand. Anyway, why would the Jedi have more than one temple on the same planet? That seems strange, doesn’t it?”

It had been a simple observation. A simple question. Mandalorians tended to build something once and that was that. Except when it came to capitals. They had duplicated many of the features of Keldabe when they moved the capital to Sundari. He had been happy about that after their trip to Keldabe. 

Grogu however was silent. He didn’t answer the question and he didn’t ask for food or anything else. He closed his eyes and his lips began to move in an out. The Mandalorian had never seen him do that before. 

When Grogu finally opened his eyes and stopped the whole lip thing, he chirped, cooed and chattered at his dad, at a rapid pace that Din Djarin could barely keep up with. 

“Buddy, what do you mean you want to move the temple here? Where here? And which temple? No, not which temple, why? Why do this at all?”

Then Grogu gave the Mandalorian all of his reasons at once. He’d be able to keep track of Luke and Ahsoka and any other Jedi who remained in the galaxy. And he would be able to communicate with them. Then they could build the school on Nevarro as well and Grogu could keep an eye on the younglings. That meant also meant that it would be the first Jedi temple built someplace the Sith had never built a temple. So it couldn’t be corrupted. Easy peasy.

“Grogu, Luke already has his school built. I don’t know if he has any students, but he has the buildings. He must have picked Ossus for a good reason. Ahsoka Tano must have told Luke about the seeing stone and other temple on Tython, but he still chose Ossus.”

Grogu grumbled that Luke chose Ossus because he thought he might find holocrons there, but they were already gone.

“Does Luke know they’re gone?”

If there was ever a question Din Djarin shouldn’t have asked, that apparently was the one. Grogu had explained to his master that they were gone, but when he was on Tython he felt two of them calling out to him. Luke did not believe him. Grogu even told Luke the names of the two masters, but still Luke didn’t believe him. Grogu reminded Luke that he was older than the young man and had studied more Jedi history than Luke could have in his few years of training. Apparently Luke got very upset with that and told Grogu that Master Yoda had guided Luke to Ossus. Then he had sent Grogu to meditate until he learned how to be respectful to his Master. Grogu had missed lunch, dinner, and breakfast the next morning. That had not been the Way!

“Okay, buddy. I get it. If we go there, we could look for the holocrons, but we are not going to transport a Jedi temple back here just so you can prove to Luke that you are stronger in the Force than he is. I know you mean well, but some people just have to learn certain lessons in their own way and in their own time.”

Grogu started a whole new rant about protecting the temple, preventing Moff Gideon or one of his clones from going back there, giving Grogu a place to train, and saving them time from having to travel back and forth to Tython so he could use the Seeing Stone to contact Luke or Ahsoka if he needed to without going to Ossus. 

That brought them right back to not having enough room on their plot on Nevarro. Grogu couldn’t argue with that…

Din Djarin heard a strange sound and the whole cabin began to shudder. He ran out of the cabin to find Grogu holding both of his hands up. The Mandalorian swirled around and tried not to laugh. IT would just encourage him.

“Grogu! Put the N-1 back on the landing pad. This is not the way to make more room for your temple. I’ll talk to Karga and see if he can find a space for it. Okay? Now, put it down… gently, gently.”

Uff. Now, where was he going to find a transport for megaliths?

[gerec]

Hi! Since you do fic recs: Do you happen to have a good list of sword & sorcery or fantasy style Cherik aus? I prefer less dark and hopeless but I’m open to anything! Thank you! I love that you do these.

Thanks for your patience Anon! The fandom has some amazing fantasy fics; I've listed some of my favorites below!!!

Blue Raven and the City of Gold and prequel Swords and Sorcery by Anon on the Kink Meme A Conan the Barbarian AU

terrible with the brightness of gold by brawlingdiscontent

The war is lost.

With the futures of his people and his children at stake, former Crown consort Charles of Normandy awaits the arrival of England's new master, the fearsome Viking warrior, Erik Lehnsherr. (Inspired by 11th century historical events)

The Dragon King's Incubus by Pangea

Hank of House McCoy is the reluctant but determined squire of Ser Sebastian of House Shaw, a noble house that has fallen from grace in recent generations. It’s common knowledge Ser Sebastian is willing to do anything to restore the lost prestige of his surname.

Anything, like crossing miles and miles of wasteland to an abandoned castle, where rumor has it a fair prince is held captive by a beastly dragon.

Letters for His Majesty by motleystitches (furius)

When Charles the Gentle, King of Westchester, was nineteen years old, he killed a man named Shaw and rescued a boy he gave to the MacTaggerts’ to raise. Twenty years later, he has almost forgotten the incident. With a wife he loves as a sister, no heir, and a war going badly, Charles falls quickly and inappropriately in love with the knight Erik Lehnsherr.

All the King's Man by Pookaseraph

In an effort to get out from under the thumb of his step-father, Charles chooses to become a courtesan for several minor nobles in King Erik's court. It is not long before he attracts the eye of the young king, and the Cardinal who holds the young king's ear. Charles spends months working to secure his place as King Erik's favorite and to regain his father's title of Merchant Prince. Charles hopes to disprove the old adage that once you enter the king's bed, you have nowhere to go but down.

Winter Comes With a Knife by RedStockings

It apparently came to no one’s surprise that the war-mage Erik Lehnsherr took up residence in the Dark Keep. I knew he was going to choose my sister, Raven, to be his apprentice so why wouldn’t he let me go? What did he want from me?

My name is Charles Xavier, I can read minds and use magic. I’ve met Kings and Queens, mages and magic users. I’ve travelled through lay-lines and jumped through the Dark Void… but none of that really matters.

I am leading an army into war, I am scared and I never wanted this. I’ve come to realise that what I want, rode into my life when I was still a child. Now he’s out there, ready to charge into battle. Ready to die for me.

The Seventh Tree by Clocks, RaelynnMarie

Erik has served Shaw, ruler of the desert kingdom Genosha, for years as one of his Elite Knights. His life of unquestioning obedience changes when he meets a man in the strangest of circumstances who is not at all what he seems.

The Waste Land by nekosmuse

The White Queen and her Shadow King sit on their throne, safe behind the psionic shields of the Walled City. The armies of Genosha batter uselessly at the gates, a war locked in stalemate. Magneto, camped in the frozen mud, receives word the Citadel intends to send a telepath to the front lines. The same telepath he met two years ago, who sat across a carved wooden chess set and offered Magneto the first friendly smile in a lifetime. The same telepath who still haunts his dreams.

i've been waiting all night for you by jasminetea

As a young boy, Charles once enjoyed his visits to the Dragon King Erik's hearth. Now a young man, he isn't sure what he feels when he enters the hearth once again, this time as the Dragon King's bride.

Show Us the Sky by Pangea 

Erik has been away on duty for five months, protecting the realm as a dragon rider. Now he's finally on leave and he has a special present for Charles, who waits for him back in their home village.

Pale Night (Caught Remix) by ikeracity

Charles is an omega prince promised to a faraway king. Erik is an alpha, and a lowborn squire.

This could only ever end in disaster.

In Your Honor by Black_Betty (first of a series)

All his life Erik had fought to overcome the loss of his mother, and his meager beginnings. He had fought for food, for survival, for blood and vengeance, for honor and respect. He had fought for the heart of one boy, and he had given away his own in return. He knew how to fight.

He was entered in the Tournament.

And he was going to win.

A Flight of Dragons by keire_ke

Moira skidded on the ice, slid down the slanted slope on her arse and came up panting, surrounded by a circle of glowing eyes and gleaming teeth.

Dragons.

Love Like Winter by garnettrees (WIP)

"Once, when all the world was green and young, there lived two very different little boys..."

Now these boys have grown, thrust onto a political battlefield filled with long-held grudges and secret motives. Charles has spent the majority of his adult life studying and teaching the finer points of spell casting.

Erik... Erik fights for what is his.

Ritual Self-Torture by TurtleTotem

For the following prompt: Shaw is King, Charles is his royal consort and Erik is a Knight/Lord. Shaw is sterile but his kingdom can't find out, so he asks Erik to impregnate Charles.

He doesn't know Erik and Charles are in love.

King and Lionheart by ikeracity (WIP)

Erik, captain of the king's elite fighting force, returns home from a campaign in the north to find that the king has taken a new concubine, Charles Xavier, son of one of the princes of the realm. As a reward for his victories in the north, King Shaw gifts Charles to Erik for the night. Little does he know that this night will form a bond between Charles and Erik strong enough to shatter Shaw's throne—if they survive long enough to bring their plans to fruition.

The Genoshan Prince by flightinflame (series)

Westchester has fallen to Genosha, and the Genoshan ruler, Erik Lehnsherr, demands that the mutants from the kingdom are handed over to him. Neither he nor Charles ever expect to fall for each other. When they do, it changes both their lives, and the fates of their people.

home as a borderless metaphor by specficslut (homosociality) (series)

Erik has been traded to a foreign king for a chest of gold and a hundred bushels of grain. In Westchester, he must learn to start a new life... and navigate the roles that have been thrust upon him, whether concubine or courtesan, consort or slave.

grasps the empty sky by Ireliss

Charles Xavier is sent to slay a dragon. He ends up rescuing a wounded man instead — he knows Erik Lehnsherr from somewhere, he's sure of it, but between Charles' wavering control over his powers and the secrets Erik clutches tightly against his chest, this mission is quickly spiraling into a fine mess...

haunted by the ghost of you (remix of i had all and then most, some and now none of you) by faerie_ground

Every generation, the eldest heirs of the Lehnsherr and Xavier families fight in battle after the death of the current king, the victor becoming the new king. It is tradition, but tradition never accounts for love.

the white knight is the king’s shadow by ninemoons42

Warrior-Prince Erik has suffered a string of defeats and is well on his way to heading home in disgrace. As he drags the shattered remnants of his battle group onwards, his path crosses that of a powerful, untrained outcast of a magic-user - and Erik quickly learns that there are no accidents in life.

Especially not in his life.

Beyond Measure by jasminetea

The tale of a King and his loyal Knight, told in threes as all such tales are.

Coup by Anon on the Kink Meme

Alpha King Charles takes Omega General Erik prisoner .

-----

And some fics by Yours Truly for your consideration!

What Night Brings the Dawn by Gerec

High Lord Xavier's duty is clear - he must execute the greatest enemy of his Order, to ensure lasting peace for the troubled kingdom of Genosha. But the Divine of Eternal Night is both adversary and bondmate, and the ties that bind are not so easily broken...

Tribute to the Horde by Gerec

Kurt Marko offers omega!Charles as tribute to the Genoshan Chieftain Erik Lehnsherr, to stave off the great mutant horde that has amassed outside the capital of Westchester. The Genoshans are a fierce, nomadic people with very different traditions, including a public bonding ceremony where Charles must mate not only with the Chieftain, but also with his most trusted generals...

Gods or Mortals by Gerec (WIP) Excerpt from 'The Life and Times of King Charles the Third', volume XI of the 'Histories of Westchester':

They say that his birth was foretold by the Great Seer of this Age, an omega child born unto the House of Xavier and most beloved of the gods. Powerful amongst the Gifted Ones the child will grow to rule a kingdom mighty and vast, a legacy of dominion over land and sea. That he will be beautiful beyond mortal countenance and desired by all who see his face. Empires will fall by his command and kings by his design; the world torn asunder by war and then made new from its ashes.

These are the words that herald the arrival of Charles Francis Xavier, 124th of the line of Xavier and heir to the throne of Westchester.

This is his story.

[this-world-of-beautiful-monsters]

It's Appreciate a Dragon Day, and I just wanted to rec one of my favorite dragon books! From the website:

The Tea Dragon Society is a graphic novel suitable for all-ages, in which a young blacksmith apprentice named Greta discovers the fascinating world of Tea Dragons. These cute but extremely fussy creatures require a great deal of attention and care, however they hold a magical secret that makes the trouble worthwhile. Along the way Greta meets the mysterious girl Minette, the retired adventurers Hesekiel and Erik, and of course all of their Tea Dragons.

Winner of 2018 Eisner Award for Best Kid’s Publication Winner of 2018 Eisner Award for Best Webcomic Winner of 2018 Dwayne McDuffie Award for Kids Comics Co-Winner of 2018 Harvey Award for Best Kid’s or YA Publication ALA Rainbow List (2018) Amazon.com’s Best Comics & Graphic Novels (2017) School Library Journal’s Top 10 Graphic Novels (2017)

The story will always be free to read online here, and the hardcover book is now also available via Barnies & Noble.

A really sweet, insanely creative, delightfully queer and disabled fantasy that's ridiculous cute and soothing, not to mention its fascinating exploration of inheritance, memory, and passing on tradition. I was enough to find it at my local library and enjoyed the shit out of it, and I think you will, too!

Apparently there are sequels I haven't had a chance to read yet, but I intend to very soon!

[tideswept]

So~ I saw a couple of people doing this, and figured, why not? My tumblr is almost entirely Obikin/Hartwin focused atm, but I do ship other things! Rare ships! (Things that's hard to find content for tbh!)

So if you ever wonder/want to talk about other things--here's a handy list of Ships (And Related Series/Movie/Etc) Berry Will Cheerfully Listen To/And/Or Talk Your Ear Off About!

ANGEL SANCTUARY: Kira/Setsuna, Lucifer/Alexiel, Rosiel/Katan

BATMAN: Bruce/Dick

DOCTOR WHO: 9/Rose, 10/Rose

FAST & FURIOUS: Dom/Brian

FE3H: Byleth/Dimitri

FF13: Lightning/Hope

FFXIV: Emeth-Selch/WoL, Emet-Selch/Azem/Hythlodaeus, Sicard/Emmanellain

GANKUTSUOU: Edmond/Albert

GARO: Kouga/Kaoru/Rei

GENSHIN: Wriothesley/Neuvillette, Kazuha/Lumine, Ayato/Thoma, Fischl/Mona

HARRY POTTER: Snape/Harry, Tom Riddle/Harry, Sirius/Harry/Remus

HAVEN: Duke/Aubrey/Nate

HETALIA: Turkey/Greece, Greece/Spain, England/America, France/Spain

KINGDOM HEARTS: Riku/Sora, Riku/Namine, Roxas/Namine, Axel/Roxas, Terra/Ventus, Aqua/Cinderella

KINGSMAN: Harry/Eggsy, Merlin/Eggsy, Charlie/Eggsy

LABYRINTH: Jareth/Sarah

MARVEL: Bucky/Steve, Deadpool/Peter Parker, Loki/Thor

NARNIA: Lucy/Edmund, Caspian/Peter

NIER: 2B/9S

PERSONA: FeMC(Kotori)/Shinjiro, Yuu/Rise

RE4: Leon/Ashley

SHERLOCK: Mycroft/Lestrade

STAR WARS: Obi-Wan/Anakin, Qui-Gon/Anakin

THE MAGNUS ARCHIVES: Elias/Jon, Tim/Jon, Peter/Jon

THE MUMMY: Ardeth/Jonathan

THE SORCERER'S APPRENTICE: Balthazar/Dave

THE VAMPIRE CHRONICLES: Lestat/Louis, Armand/Daniel, Marius/Daniel

TSUKIUTA: You/Yoru, Arata/Aoi

TWEWY: Josh/Neku

TWIN PEAKS: Cooper/Audrey

X-MEN: Charles/Erik, Rogue/Gambit

I'm probably forgetting quite a few, but uhhh this is pretty darn long already.

[night-unfurls-its-splendour]

Susan Kay's 'Phantom' Read: Part III (Giovanni)

Now I started out very annoyed that Kay once again chose to hand over the narrative to one of her OC's, proclaiming "this page says 'Giovanni', who the hell is he?"

But actually this section turned out to the the least objectionable episode so far.

Note I say 'least objectionable'.

So for those who haven't read Phantom, Giovanni is one of Kay's composite characters, a master stone mason (and Freemason, which.... dunno how I feel about that) who takes Erik on as an apprentice, slowly building a tentative trust with him, and an almost paternal relationship. Giovanni recognizes Erik true passion for the craft and leaves Erik mostly to his own devices while occasionally providing a steady guiding hand. Giovanni is a foil to the previous dominant male figure in Erik's life, the abusive Javert.

But unfortunately (as I'm given to understand will be a theme in this book) everything goes wonky when a girl enters the picture. The ominously vaunted Luciana, Giovanni's youngest daughter returns from school. She's characterized as spoiled, narcissistic and unstable and develops an immediate infatuation with her father's mysterious and aloof masked apprentice.

I say everything falls apart, not because of the absolutely preventable tragedy that follows, but because that tragedy happens for just... reasons. Giovanni acknowledges that it could have been prevented if he just packed his daughter back off to school as planned but hey-ho.

It all ends with Luciana pestering Erik about his mask until Giovanni finally breaks the tacit bond of trust between Erik and himself by urging Erik to just give in to Luciana's petulant whining. Erik does and Luciana throws herself back into chekhov's terrace balustrade (which Erik had noted shortly prior needed to be replaced) and falls to her death.

While this breach of trust provides a fairly good anecdote for why, even though there have been genuinely compassionate figures in Erik's life, he's still come away with such steadfast trust issues, it is somewhat weakened by the number of times Kay has Giovanni lampshade how this all could have been prevented if he wasn't such a pushover.

And then there's something I noticed in this episode that I've noticed as a growing theme.

Some of you may already have read this in the notes on my previous post on Madeleine's chapters, but I'm starting to think Kay just has serious issues with babies in general.

In Madeleine's narrative we're provided with two extreme ends of a scale regarding the cry of a newborn. The "utterly sexless--piercing, irritating, curiously unattractive" cry of a normal baby, and then Erik's cry which is a "music" that brings tears to her eyes "strangely seduc[es her] body so that [her] breasts ached with a primitive and overwhelming urge to hold him close". This begs the question in my mind: was Erik's cry really so unique, or was this just the phenomenon of a woman not really caring for children until her natural maternal bond with her own baby overrides that, and Kay just has a really twisted way of expressing that?

But then we're introduced to Giovanni and his daughter Luciana.

Giovanni had three daughters before Luciana, and his narrative regarding his daughters is interesting to say the least.

But the moment I parted the covers to look at her I was lost in wonder at the sight that greeted me. She did not look like the wrinkled prune that I had come to believe typified my newborn children. Even then she was beautiful, and her tiny little hand closing around my finger was only a symbol of the tenacity with which she wound herself around my heart in the following years.

Here again we are presented with the ugly image of the normal baby, while the child with attractive, pleasing qualities is characterized as manipulative.

Maybe I'm reading too much into it, but, idk. As one of my commenters said "Freud would have a field day with this woman."

Masterpost