#gwen would be of the 'for it to be a fairy only one big thing would need to have changed or happened and also I work at the oiar' type

[bigmilkagenda]

many people are posting about "You don't sound Russian" and "He can read?"

which is very fun, but I think it also reveals an important part of both Jon and Gwen's characters:

they each would have voted walrus.

[chrzannekk]

forest!david's travels/lore !!

when he was 14, he lived in sleepy peak village with his family. they owned a farm, and david would help out alot in it ! suddenly, any crop he picked or held started to rot and wilt in his hands. david suddenly became more pale and his iris began to shine a golden colour, his parents took him to the doctor and they sound out that david was ice cold and he has no pulse.

his parents saw this as a curse and they threw him out of his home and they told the people in the village that he was possesed by evil beings and that he cant live there anymore. david was thrown out of home with only his tshirt, shorts and his work shoes. so he had to wander around and live in the forest.

david wandered for about a few months (by this point hes turned 15), before coming across lake lilac + lilac village. he stumbled into the village and louis found him. louis and his family are book makers and gwen (15) helps her grandma run the village library. louis took him in, fed him, gave him a yellow scarf, a vest and a old book bag. david in return helped the family make little jars of pickles and stuff like that :) david cant stay in one place too long before all the plants and crops around him start wilting and dying, so he set off on his way and he said goodbye to gwen and her family.

after another few months of wandering, david (now 16) finds another village thats by the mountains. the villagers call the mountain 'the island' bc its so random in this big feild, anyway. david comes across jasper (16) and they talk and chat. jasper takes david into the village and he stays for a few days. jasper teaches him how to ride a bike and they play around with all the kids in the village. one of these kids is harrison. his family runs the church in this village, and harrison immidiently notices davids powers

right before david is about to take off in the night, harrison rushes out of his home and he talks to david, saying he noticed how flowers around him start to wilt and that all fresh fruit that he holds starts to rot after he sets it down. david panics but he admits to his powers, and harrison isnt scared but hes relieved that someone else is weird like him. to prove his powers david picks up a daisy and he holds it, its petals fall off the flower, then he hands it to harrison, and the petals start to grow back again magically. it clicks in david's head that harrison is the spring yokai, and his powers bring life to things that he holds. david asks harrison if he can hold his hands and maybe try to reverse his powers, but nothing happens. david is really disappointed but he tells harrisons that his powers are something he shouldnt be afraid of. he should use his power to help all the people in this wonderful village and that he can do good with them - just keep it a secret!

david walks on into the night, and every now and again he encounters this kid in the forest, looking up at the stars. he goes and sits down with this kid, and he starts telling him jokes aand wonderful stories, and when the kid laughs the stars in the sky shine brighter :) space kid is the night fairy, and david occasionally bumps into him and he lets the kid tell him all about the planets and stars. when david falls asleep and he wakes up in the morning, space kid is gone. he appears when the sun sets and he fades away when the moon goes down. david circles around the area and every year he pops into gwen's village and jasper's as well. gwen figured out that he is the autumn yokai thanks to reading legends and hearing stories from her grandmother. shes chill with it. little fun fact, all the pickles/chutneys that david helped prepare were always the sweetest tasting :) his powers enhanced the fermentation process

thats all i have for now !

[imagines--galore]

Hi. I’m taking a big step to come out of my shy shell, and ask for a TASM x Reader request from you. I’ve never done this before, but I’d like to share my idea with you, if you’re ok with it.

“A sick TASM 2 Spidey battling a fever and sneeze exploding head cold, while swinging on patrol. He winds up on the fire escape of a surprised F reader, whose soft spot for Spider-Man results in her growing close to her hero. A lot of fluff & SFW romance, some PTSD Gwen angst concerns, and a bit of hurt/comfort moments when she first cares for him during their first meeting.”

Pairing: TASM Peter Parker x Reader Rating || Genres || Warnings: T. Romance. Angst. Fluff. Just a bit of PTSD but nothing too drastic. A/N: I hope I did your request justice! Thank you for sending it in!

You had begun to think your balcony was cursed. There had been occasions in the past, when you would open the door leading out to said balcony, only to find some injured animal taking shelter there.

The very first time that happened, you found a pigeon. The poor thing had a broken wing and it looked so pitiful that you carefully scooped it up and brought it inside. You took it to a nearby walk-in pet clinic. It took a couple of weeks, but pretty soon the bird was starting to show signs of flying and one day it flew out your window.

And though you had been sad to see it go, you were happy it was healthy now.

After that pigeon you found several other birds on your balcony. Once you had even found a cat with a broken paw. Another time a cat licking over newborn kittens. The latter of which had allowed you to adopt one of the kittens as your own. It had actually been the runt of the litter, and your tender heart didn't want it to die, so you had fed it yourself, taking care of it until it became strong enough.

You named her Coral.

Birds and cats, that was the extent of injured creatures you found on your balcony.

So one night, when you opened the door to let in a little fresh New York air, and found an unresponsive figure laying there, you very nearly screamed out loud.

To top it off, it was Spiderman.

Yes the Spiderman.

On your balcony.

You instantly checked the costumed figure over for any signs of bleeding. You couldn't very well check for injuries with the way the suit covered everything.

Well not everything.

It seemed, before passing out, Spiderman had the sense to remove his mask. Your eyes widened as you saw his face in the fairy lights you had strewn across the balcony railing.

He was young, and if you were to judge correctly, he looked to be about your age. He was breathing rather rapidly, and you couldn't help but feel a bubble of concern rise within your chest as you knelt down next to him. You whispered his name, your hand slowly coming to rest against his forehead. A startled gasp left your lips once you felt just how hot his skin was.

Immediately you felt your instincts kick in. Wrapping an arm around his waist, and guiding his to wrap around your shoulders, you managed to lift him up and half-dragged him inside your room. Thank goodness your balcony was adjacent to your room.

During your little trip, he barely stirred, and you could feel the heat from his fever against your own body, causing you to frown in concern. As you laid him down on your bed, he was hit with a coughing fit, one that had him curling up on his side as each cough seemed to wreck his entire body. All you could do was thump his back lightly, trying your best to reassure him somehow.

Once the cough subsided, you quickly poured him a glass of water. He seemed to have gained some consciousness, as he gulped down the water greedily when you pressed the glass to his lips. His eyes were still closed, and sweat had begun to line his skin as he fell back against your soft pillows once more.

His breathing was deep, and you couldn't help but feel dread settle into your stomach as you quickly grabbed the thermometer gun from your bathroom cabinet and took his temperature.

He was running a rather high fever, and from the way he breathed through his mouth rather then his nose, told you that perhaps he had a cold as well. You just hoped it was nothing more then that. If it was anything serious, how would you get him to a doctor. You couldn't just walk into a clinic with a boy in a Spiderman costume and ask to see the doctor.

Besides, you doubted he would want anyone to know who he was.

So you decided to tackle this situation yourself.

With newfound determination, you quickly went into your kitchen and within minutes you were whipping up some chicken noodle soup. You always bought the ones that came in cups and only needed some hot water. You didn't have time to make one from scratch. You also grabbed some medicine for fever and cold from your bathroom cupboard and made your way back to your surprise patient.

Setting the tray down, you leaned over the still figure. You wish you knew his name, as you gently shook his shoulder and whispered.

"Hey, I brought you some soup and medicine. You should eat something." You urged softly. Thankfully, he stirred, mumbling something under his breath as his eyelids flickered. You had made sure to only keep the light of the lamp on, so it was a little dark in the room.

"Gwen?" He mumbled, even that one word slurring slightly as he tried his best to sit up. "You're here."

Gwen? Who was she? His girlfriend maybe? Whatever, if he thought she was Gwen, maybe she could get him to sit up and eat. And though you didn't like lying, you knew it was necessary. So you smiled softly at him and nodded. "Yeah! I'm here. Come on, sit up for me and eat."

He barely had any strength to do that himself, but you helped him sit up, propping multiple pillows behind him as you did. He barely opened his eyes once, making you wander if perhaps his eyes felt hot and heavy because of the fever. He sniffed, confirming your suspicion of him having a cold.

Since he made no move to pick up the soup bowl, you settled the tray onto your lap, and slowly began to spoon the broth into his waiting mouth. You couldn't help but let your eyes wander over his face as you fed him. He was handsome, in an adorable kind of way. His brown hair stuck out in all directions, but that was probably because he had been wearing the mask for a long time. During the entire feeding session, he did not say anything, but he did manage to finish the whole bowl, making you wander just how hungry he had been.

Once done, he let his head fall back against the pillows. "So tired." He whispered hoarsely. You nodded. "Thats alright, you can go to sleep once you've had some medicine." You quickly held the two pills out for him to take. A covered hand slowly took the pills, placing them inside his mouth which he then chased down by drinking an entire glass of water.

Satisfied you made to pick up the dirty dishes when his hand darted out to grasp your wrist. You let out a gasp of surprise, eyes dropping to his hand, before lifting to meet his near desperate gaze.

"Stay." He whispered in such a broken tone that you couldn't help but feel your own heart ache for the poor thing.

Nodding, you set the dishes back down. "I'll stay." You promised, your wrist sliding out of his hand only so you could wrap both your hands around his, holding it between your palms as you sat down on the bed next to him. He gave a sleepily smile, eyes already closing as the medicine began to kick in.

Once he was asleep, you couldn't find it in your heart to leave, so you fell asleep right beside him, propped up against the headboard, something that you would come to regret the next morning.

                                            ————————–

ACHOO!

A loud sneeze was what startled you awake the next morning. Instantly your back protested from where it had been against the wooden headboard the entire night. You blinked in the light of the morning sun as it streamed through your still open balcony. It was another blustery autumn day, which meant lots of wind.

Which could not be good for your patient.

Events from last night flooded your brain and you quickly stood up to check on your patient. Who seemed to have woken himself up by sneezing. You quickly shut the balcony door, cutting off the cold air. Once his little sneezing fit was over, Spiderman managed to blink away whatever sleep was left in his eyes and assessed the room around him.

You watched as his gaze darted from one object to the next, before finally finding your still figure next to the balcony door. Giving a sheepish grin you gave a little wave. "Hi."

The hero lifted a hand to his head, rubbing his temples. "Is this a dream? Am I dreaming?" He asked, his voice still nasally. It seemed he was still fighting his cold. You gave a sympathetic smile as you shook your head. "No, not a dream. I found you passed out on my balcony. You had a high fever and I brought you in." Reaching out you pressed your hand against his forehead. "Well your fever is down from what it was last night."

Your gaze met his, and you quickly realized just how blatantly you were touching him. Without his permission. Your eyes met his, the surprise of the situation clearly written across his face. A horrified look overcame your features as you quickly pulled your hand back. "I'm sorry. I'm so sorry! I shouldn't have....." Your eyes dropped to the temperature gun, which you quickly lifted and aimed at his forehead. "Your fever has gone down, guess the medicines worked."

With a groan, he moved to stand up, but it seemed he wasn't steady on his feet, as he seemed to stumble would've fallen if you hadn't reached out to catch him. "Easy. Easy." You whispered in a soothing voice, helping him sit back down. "You still have a fever, and I'm sure that cold isn't helping with your head." Your eyes assessed his face for a few brief seconds before you looked away.

"I know this is not the most ideal situation, but I won't mind if you stay here and recover. And if you do stay here, it will help put my mind at ease as well. Otherwise I'd probably end up chewing my fingernails off with worry." You admitted with an awkward laugh. Spiderman continued to stare at you with those big brown eyes. You could feel a blush starting to creep along your skin as you nervously fidgeted in place.

"H-how about I fix us some breakfast? And I can get you a change of clothes if you'd like Spiderman?" You continued to babble, moving to the dresser that stood against a wall. You were sure you had a couple baggy shirts and a pair of sweatpants that would fit him.

"Peter."

You spun around, eyes wide, the shock and surprise clearly written on your face as you stared at him. He offered you a small smile from where he sat on the bed. "My name is Peter."

Slowly, a bright yet shy smile pulled at your lips as you gave a small nod. "I'm Y/n." You quickly introduced yourself. There was a moment of silence, where the two of you simply looked at one another, before you cleared your throat and turned retrieved the appropriate clothes.

"Here, you get changed, while I make breakfast. Just try to move slowly." You advised as you held the clothes out for him to take. "Fresh towels are in the cupboard beside the sink. And if you need any help, just yell for me alright?"

His lips parted, as if he were about to say something. But whatever it was got lost along the way, as a loud sneeze echoed in the room, prompting you to give a sympathetic laugh and hand him a tissue.

"Bless you." With that you stepped out of the room to make the hero some breakfast.

                                            ————————–

Spiderman, Peter, stayed at your place for a couple days. Once the fever had gone down, the sneezing had increased tenfold, and you had to make two runs to the store at the corner of the street to get some more tissues. Peter had been extremely apologetic about making you work, but you waved him off.

"You keep the entire city safe and barely get a thank you, I think I can buy a couple rolls of tissues for you." You had teased him, prompting a grin to pull at his lips.

The first day he mostly spent resting and sleeping, recovering from the toll the fever had taken on his body. On the second day he was well enough to sit up and speak to you.

He explained how he had started to feel dizzy while swinging near your apartment building and knowing he was about to faint, he had swung down on your balcony, before passing out.

"Well lucky for you I'm used to having injured or sick strays come across my balcony. You aren't the first one I've brought in to help. Though you are the first person, and hopefully my last." He had laughed at that, before asking you to relay the past patients you had had over the months you had lived at the apartment.

The two of you had talked almost non-stop and it was at your insistence that he rest that he got a few hours of sleep during midday.

'You know its been a long time since I spoke to someone like this." He said on the third night of his stay. He was looking much better, and had even managed a shower earlier. "Don't tell me you don't have any friends." You teased, setting down a fresh cup of hot tea and handing one to him. He took it with a smile and shrugged.

"I do, but I'm not that close with them. Honestly, I was only ever close to one person." He admitted, looking down at the liquid in the cup. "Who?" You asked, settling at the foot of the bed as Coral curled up into your lap.

Peter cleared his throat before taking a small sip of his tea. "Her name was Gwen." Your eyes widened and you gave a nod. "Yeah, you did mention her once or twice when I was bringing you inside. And when I was feeding you the soup." Suddenly, the use of past tense registered in your brain and you frowned.

"Wait, was?" You asked, a feeling of dread settling in your stomach at what he would say next.

Where there had been laughter just moments ago, there was now a deep soul-aching sorrow as he met your gaze and gave a small sad smile. "She died. A couple years ago." He admitted with a catch in his voice.

"Oh." You couldn't help reach out and grasp his hand, giving it a squeeze. "I'm so sorry Peter." You whispered. He looked back up at you, and this time neither of you looked away for a long time.

                                            ————————–

He left after five days.

No goodbye, no seeing him off. Just a small post it note that said he would visit soon.

You kept the note on the shade of your bedside lamp, to remind yourself that what had happened wasn't a dream.

                                            ————————–

Since that day, Peter had dropped by your apartment many times. His place was just a couple blocks away from your own, but he would mostly drop by after patrolling the city. The two of you would sit on the balcony, share a beverage and talk.

It became such a regular occurrence that you actually bought a couple of recliners and installed a cute awning above the balcony so the two of you could have some shade if it ever rained. And you added some potted flowers as well. It was all very picturesque and magical, and you had blushed with pleasure when Peter had commented on it.

The one time he came back with a bleeding lip, bruised cheekbone and a cut on his forehead, you added a first aid kit to your list of necessities as well. You had patched him up and when he jokingly said you should kiss it better, you caught yourself by surprise when you actually leaned in and quickly kissed his cheek.

The two of you could barely stop smiling and blushing as you sat side by side, simply basking in one another's presence. At one point you felt his fingers brush against your own, and you allowed him to take your hand and interlock your fingers together.

                                            ————————–

A few months after first meeting Peter, you were anxiously pacing the small balcony. According to the news Spiderman had to face off against a rather deadly villain, and from the reports it didn't seem good. You were worried out of your mind, and had sent Peter a message to come to the balcony if he could once he was done dealing with the villain.

Finally feeling tired, you allowed your body to drop into one of the recliners, your eyelids heavy with sleep. And despite your best efforts to keep them open, you slowly began to drift off.

The brush of a hand against your cheek startled you awake, and your eyes blinked open to stare up at the injured yet smiling figure of Peter Parker. "Hey Nightingale." He greeted, using the nickname he had given you on account of your always taking care of him. He had actually named you after a famous nurse.

You let out a sound of utter relief as you jumped from your seat and wrapped your arms around him. And as you embraced him, you couldn't help yourself as you pressed your lips against his. He caught you as if he had been expecting you, matching the enthusiasm of your kiss, which was the epitome of sweet, gentle yet deep, charged with every ounce of emotion the two of you felt.

And though you would later tell him off for worrying you like that, and he would apologize and hug you while wiping away your tears, for now the two of you were utterly content.

[unreadpoppy]

The Runaway Bride

Raphael x OC (Gwendolyn Gray)

Summary: After accepting Raphael's proposal, it is finally time for the wedding. But what will happen when Gwendolyn starts to doubt herself?

This is the part two/continuation of Betrayer, so go read that first.

A/N: these two are definetly a couple i would come back to in the future, if anyone were interested. Anyways, have fun reading it!

I'm tagging @fiendish-appreciation because you liked the first part and showed interest in this so idk i thought i should tag you. Anyways, to the fic.

Read on AO3

If there was one thing Gwendolyn had dreamed of since she was a child, it was of having a big wedding ceremony. Like the ones she read about in books or the fairy tales her mother used to tell her before bed.

She used to fantasize about where she wanted it to happen, who would be present, and she’d even draw what she wanted the dress to look like.

Of course, things didn’t exactly turn out as a young Gwendolyn had once imagined. For one, she didn’t imagine her wedding would take place in the Hells. Or that hundreds of thousands of fiends would be in attendance. And she’d never believe that the groom would be the archdevil supreme himself.

But most importantly, when Gwendolyn imagined herself getting married, she’d always believed her mother would be there, to walk her down the isle and help guide her through the day.

She also thought her friends would be there. But Gwen guessed that that’s what killing your companions get. The ones she hadn’t betrayed, who weren’t there when the fight happened, had also left her. The only one who remained had been Scratch.

Since the moment she had woken up, on the day of the wedding, Gwendolyn had felt lonely.

After she had eaten breakfast alone, since according to tradition, the couple wasn’t supposed to see each other yet, the servants had drawn her a bath and helped her wash herself. Then they dressed her, fixed her hair and were now finalizing putting makeup on her.

Scratch was laying at her feet, and every moment she got, she would pet him. At some point, when the servant attending her had left momentarily, she whispered to him. “Oh Scratch… I feel so alone. I wish Mother was here.”

As Gwen looked at herself in the mirror, she felt a sudden sadness. She was supposed to be surrounded by friends and family, she was supposed to be laughing and having fun. Instead, she was feeling lonelier than she had in years.

Not only that, but Gwen had another fear, one she hadn’t told Raphael about. While he was still at least half devil, she was mortal. Although she had spent some time in the Hells alongside him, understanding how ruling worked, she still feared that his, soon to be hers, subjects would reject her.

“You look beautiful, mistress.” One of the servants spoke, taking her out of her own head. Gwen turned to look at her, a young elven woman, and nodded her head in thanks. “Something wrong, mistress? You seem kind of sad.”

Gwen shook her head. “It’s…nothing. Just wedding jitters.” She gave the servant a tight smile. The elf didn’t seem convinced but decided to drop the topic. She walked over to her mistress, veil in hand.

Before the item could be placed on Gwen’s head, the tiefling raised a hand. “Wait. I have to go to relieve myself first.” She stood up from her chair, and various servants went after her, to hold her dress, but Gwen said “I’ll go alone.” She gathered her skirts and hurriedly left the room, Scratch following her.

As soon as she got out, Gwen looked around the hallway, and seeing nobody there, she opened up a portal. Before she walked into it, she turned to the dog. “Scratch, be a good boy and stay here. I’m just gonna go get some air and I’ll be back.” And then, she left.

…

Raphael’s day had gone as he had planned.

Everything was in order - the flowers, the music, the decoration - the guests had arrived on time and he looked great, having ordered a tailored garment for the occasion, shaved his beard and trimmed his hair.

Now, it was only a matter of time until the ceremony began. He waited in his room, sipping on wine. Everything was peaceful until Korilla burst into the room.

“We cannot find her.” The warlock said. Raphael raised an eyebrow and she explained. “I went to the mistress’ room, to bring her to the aisle, and when I got there, all her servants were saying she had gone missing.”

Raphael stood up, furious. “What? How come she left and nobody saw it?” Was his precious partner, the one who had betrayed her friends for him, running away? That couldn’t be. “Gather everyone. I want every corner of the Hells turned over until we find my runaway bride. In the meantime, go tell Mol to entertain the guests.” Korilla nodded and left to go after the others.

Raphael smashed the glass of wine he was holding. After everything they had gone through, she would dare leave him now, embarrassing him in front of his subjects?

No. He would not allow it. The wedding would happen, had she wanted to or not.

… Half an hour had passed, and he had no sight of where Gwendolyn could be. She had left no trace, whatsoever, and she was not to be found in any of the rooms she would normally be - the library, her room, the dining room or even the hellish gardens.

Raphael began to panic. How could a mortal such as she evade him in his own realm? He was so deep in thought, he hadn’t noticed Scratch’s presence until the dog licked his hand. He jumped back in surprise.

“Not now, Scratch.” He tried to shoo the dog away. Raphael had never liked dogs, but for Gwendolyn, he made an exception, considering how attached she was to him. He sighed and looked at the creature. “It seems that your owner has run away.”

At that, Scratch’s ears picked up and he wagged his tail. Then, he began to howl, almost as if he was trying to tell Raphael something. “What is it, boy? Would you happen to know where Gwendolyn is?” Scratch howled again and Raphael got an idea.

“Korilla, come quick.” He summoned the warlock. “I know where she is.”

…

Tahlia Gray had been buried in the gardens outside her home. To mark where she was, Gwendolyn had planted a couple of seeds of forget me nots, and although she hadn’t been there in years - as she was serving in the Hells as Raphael’s consort - the flowers had survived and were now in bloom.

Gwendolyn sat on the bench outside her home, the one that faced the flowers. Tears streamed down her face, as she spoke to herself. “I always thought this would be the happiest day of my life.” She sobbed. “Instead, I’m feeling more lonely than I ever could.” She walked towards the forget me nots and plucked one from the ground. “I wish you were here today, mama.”

Gwen stood there, clutching the delicate flower to her chest, when suddenly, a familiar voice spoke from behind her. “So this is where you’ve run off to.”

“Raphael.” She gasped as she turned around to face him, and immediately lowered her head.

“Gwendolyn.” He spoke, voice full of anger. “Are you trying to run away? To turn your back on me? You should know by now how foolish that is.” Raphael walked closer to her. “I will always come back to find you.”

“I…I didn’t mean to run away.” She said, quietly.

“Then what are you doing here?”

“I…” She turned her back to him. She didn’t want to admit to him how lonely and scared she was. “We’re not supposed to see each other yet. Mother always said it would bring bad luck.”

Raphael was about to reply when he heard her sob. At the mention of her mother, he began to piece together what could be happening.

“Gwen… tell me what is on your head.” He said in a softer voice. When she didn’t reply, he placed a hand on her shoulder, getting closer to her. “Please.”

That made the dam break. “I just feel so alone.” She turned around and looked up at him. Through her tear filled eyes, she could see how his gaze had softened. “This was supposed to be the happiest day of my life but everyone is dead. My mom is not here, she won’t get to walk me down the aisle or see me in a wedding dress.” Gwen stopped to sniffle.

“Tav, my friends and companions, they are gone and it’s all my fault. I don’t deserve to be here, getting married and becoming a wife to the Archdevil Supreme after all I’ve done

She took a deep breath. “And I’m so scared that I’m letting you, and all the other fiends down. Tav would have been a much better leader and consort than I ever will.They should be the ones having a happy life, not I!” Gwen put both of her hands in her face and cried.

Raphael’s eyes were furrowed. Although Gwen had expressed some guilt over what she had done years ago, but now he had realized the hole was much deeper. He wrapped his arms around her in a hug, allowing her to cry on his vest.

He caressed her head as he spoke. “Tav was an ungrateful, scheming, lying bastard who got what they deserve. They could have never reached your status. You have gotten where you are because you took destiny into your own hands and made your own path, that lead you to me.”

Raphael took her chin in his fingers and raised her head towards him. “Look at me. Tradition be damned. I would have not chosen you if you hadn’t proven yourself worthy every step of the way. I would not have come here, in the middle of nowhere to come and get my bride, if I didn’t think you were to be the one to rule besides me.” He looked at the flowers and then back at her.

“And even if your mother isn’t here today, you know how much she had loved you. You gave her the best years of her life.” Gwen nodded. “I’ll make this promise to you. As long as I live, you will never be alone.” Raphael finished his speech, grabbing both of her hands and kissing them, while looking at her mismatched eyes.

“Thank you.” Gwen finally said. “I’m sorry. I should have talked about this long before, and now I’ve ruined-”

He interrupted her. “You have ruined nothing, my dear.”

“But, you´re planning?” She looked at his vest.

He shook his head. “This day is as much about you as it is about me. Even if I’d prefer everything to be in order, exceptions can be made, especially if it is for you.”

“And your clothes…I messed them up, as I imagine my makeup is as well.”

“I am the King, my dear. I can magic those away.” He kissed her on the cheek. “Now, let us go. Your subjects wait for you.” Raphael offered his arm.

“Wait.” She turned around and grabbed a few more forget me nots. “This way mother will be with me.” Gwen smiled and took his arm, allowing themselves to return.

…

After cleaning themselves up, the ceremony proceeded with no more troubles.

Gwendolyn walked down the aisle alone with a bouquet of white roses, magnolias and forget me nots in hand. Her dress was grand and white, with golden embroidery. Raphael had protested due to the color, but they had come to an agreement - he could plan everything else as long as she chose how the dress would look like. A sheer white veil covered her face and Mol, who was now a young adult, was placed behind her, holding the train of the dress.

Once they reached the end, where Raphael was placed, Gwendolyn gave Mol the bouquet, and turned her attention towards him. He was quick to lift her veil up. Due to having no better person, Korilla had been chosen to officiate.

“Do you take this woman, Gwendolyn Gray, daughter of Tahlia Gray, the Hero of Baldur’s Gate, to be your wife?” Korilla said.

“I do.” Raphael answered with a smirk on his face, placing the ring on her finger.

“And do you take this man, Raphael, son of Mephistopheles, Archdevil Supreme, Lord of the Nine Hells, to be your husband.”

“I do.” Gwen smiled as she put the ring on his finger.

“Than I, Korilla Hearthflame, with the powers invested in me by Raphael, pronounce you husband and wife.”

Before the costumery kiss happened. Korilla had produced a cushion with a delicate tiara that much resembled the Crown of Karsus that Raphael wore.

He took the tiara in his hands. “Kneel.” He commanded and Gwen did so.

“With this, I make you not only my wife, but my consort, my partner, the one who will rule besides me, the one true Queen of the Nine Hells.” His voice boomed across the room. “Are you prepared to bear the burden of the crown?”

“Yes, my King.” She said. Then, she felt the tiara be placed on her head, and Raphael’s fingers lifted her face.

“Then rise, my Queen.” He offered his other hand and she grabbed it.

Once she stood up, Raphael pulled Gwendolyn close and kissed her on the mouth. With one hand on the back of her head and the other on her back, he dipped her as they kissed, which made her gasp, as the room erupted into cheers.

Later on, the newlyweds were sat beside a grand table, as guests appeared before them to grant their wishes and present them gifts.

Gwen looked around the room, how happy everyone seemed as they ate and danced. She looked her wedding ring, still not believing it had happened. And finally, she looked at Raphael, her husband.

She placed a hand on his wrist. “I want to thank you. For everything you’ve done for me.”

He put his glass down and smiled towards her. “It is I who should thank you. I would not be here today if it wasn't for your efforts.”

Gwendolyn smiled. “I love you.”

“And I you.” He replied, reaching forwards and kissing her delicately.

THE END

[fandomregression]

since you've done some regressor arthur ones,,, would you consider doing regressor morgana? doesn't matter if moodboard or headcanons or whatever, i'd just be really excited to see anything with regressor morgana :3

WHOOOOOO REGRESSOR MORGANA!!!

Regressor Morgana Pendragon Headcanons!

so, of course back then there's not exactly terms for age regression or anything. morgana calls it fairy time because she's childish and silly and (usually) carefree like a fairy!

gwen usually takes care of her, and for the longest time was the only one who knew about fairy time! she braids her hair, puts lil flowers in her hair, takes her on walks in the gardens around camelot to look at the pretty flowers

eventually, arthur and merlin find out, and ofc since arthur regresses as well its pretty well accepted by the two of them

(post-magic reveal) merlin likes to do little magic shows with morgana, it just makes her so happy. dancing flowers, dancing blankies, sparkles everywhere. she's clapping and cooing and so happy

morgana has a several dolls she loves playing with. she has a bunch of wooden dolls with pretty scraps of fabric for dresses, dolls made of handkerchiefs that she can hide in her sleeves when she needs to be Adult Morgana but still wants to be a fairy

her absolute favorite doll though is a large ceramic doll from her childhood. her doll's name is rose, and she's been very well preserved and well loved. she has several different dresses she likes to change her into, and she takes her on walks in the gardens with gwen

she loves making flower crowns!! so many flower crowns!!

she loves plopping them on unsuspecting knights' heads. gwaine always looks the silliest with clovers sticking up everywhere

morgana's magic is very receptive to her regression, and when she gets super excited she makes things move, sometimes makes things explode, etc its very difficult to keep contained

big ol' sweet tooth its a nightmare to keep her out of the sweets. bonus points if arthur helps her raid the sweets (and uses the "im the king i can have as many sweets as i want" card. which doesn't work)

she usually is called poppet when she's regressed and she adores it

uther's gone in this scenario in this house we hate uther and understand she would be so much happier this way lol

i have a lot of feelings about morgana

[sarah-sandwich-writes]

I posted 1,290 times in 2022

That's 1,290 more posts than 2021!

59 posts created (5%)

1,231 posts reblogged (95%)

Blogs I reblogged the most:

@sarah-sandwich

@ettawritesnstudies

@emelkae

@sarah-sandwich-writes

@pablothefrog

I tagged 307 of my posts in 2022

#harley keener - 77 posts

#parkner - 74 posts

#peter parker - 68 posts

#sswrites - 55 posts

#parley - 47 posts

#new chapter! - 37 posts

#lemon boy - 35 posts

#keenker - 29 posts

#harley keener/peter parker - 25 posts

#ask games - 18 posts

Longest Tag: 139 characters

#he accidentally made a name for himself so they injected him with a serum that gave him powers and then the 2n2nd battle with thanos happen

My Top Posts in 2022:

#5

I cannot for the life of me find the original post where I talked about it but I went to the ren faire today and am having big feelings about this plot bunny that's been in my notes for over a year

Peter works a kid craft station in the area FEAST is running. May comes and goes as she manages everything in their section. Peter is always covered in glue, glitter, and sequins and wears a flower crown bc they're in the fairy forest

Harley roleplays as a woodcrafter who wanders around giving directions and stuff. He whittles all day so he smells like sawdust and has little cuts and scrapes on his calloused hands. He gives away the little wooden trinkets he whittles, but the last one of the day always ends up in the fae prince's hands, usually given to him by a wide-eyed kid who was promised an extra special fairy craft if they delivered it.

32 notes - Posted September 17, 2022

#4

michelle.mp3

It’s the song that does it. The stupid song about the wrong MJ.

Overnight Michelle’s email is flooded with messages from fans demanding to know if she’s the MJ that the The Mary Janes wrote the song about. She’s not. She was four years behind Gwen Stacy at Midtown Tech and as far as she knows they never crossed paths. Besides, why would a senior have a secret unrequited crush on a freshman? Wouldn’t it be the other way around? It’s probably just a publicity stunt to get The Gays(TM) to listen to their dumb band. It’s fake and she doesn’t need a half hour time slot on her true conspiracy podcast to prove it.

She just wishes she wasn’t caught in the crossfire. She wishes the yearning ache of that song hadn’t made her think, made her wonder what she was missing out on. She wishes it hadn’t made her realize that marrying her high school sweetheart and settling for a life of more of the same was a mistake.

OR: The one where Michelle makes some hard choices that lead to her moving to a house in the country where she meets Gwen, her insufferable neighbor.

60 notes - Posted March 23, 2022

#3

~Lemon Boy is haaaapppppennning~

In the privacy of their shared room that night, Harley releases Peter’s hand. It feels strange not having Harley’s warmth pressed into his palm. They get changed for bed with only the sound of the TV to ease the quiet between them. Peter pulls back the covers and is about to slip under them when Harley stops him.

“Wait.”

Peter looks up and finds Harley standing awkwardly at the foot of the bed. He frowns. “What’s wrong?”

“Nothin’, I just—,” Harley rubs the back of his neck and looks pained as he says, “I need a favor.”

Peter drops the blanket and stands straight. “Yeah?”

“Yeah. Could you…” He huffs. “Morgan’s expectin’ a hug goodbye tomorrow and I… Well, I’d rather not embarrass myself if I can avoid it.”

Peter frowns. “Are you asking me to distract her while you make a getaway or—,”

“No,” Harley says quickly. “No, I… If you don’t mind, could we… I think a practice round would be good. Just to make sure I don’t spaz out or something.”

A slow smile curls Peter’s lips. “Are you asking me for a hug?”

Harley glowers at him and screws his mouth shut, but he doesn’t deny it. A giddy thrill races through Peter as he steps away from the bed and approaches Harley.

“You like going over or under?” Peter asks. “Or are you a crisscross guy? You seem like a—,”

“Don’t make this into a whole thing, Pete,” he says weakly.

“It’s important to understand the hug fundamentals, Harley. If you weren’t so out of practice you’d understand this. You should go over since Morgan will probably go under.” He stops in front of Harley and opens his arms. “Ready?”

Harley regards him warily and stands stiff as a soldier at attention.

“C’mon, Harls,” he coaxes. “I promise not to make fun of you if you have a conniption.”

Harley fixes him with a dour stare. “This doesn’t leave this room. I don’t want to hear about it from you ever, okay?”

“Deal.” He wiggles his fingers. “Bring it in, tough guy.”

With a baleful stare, Harley raises his arms and moves forward. He hesitates before making contact so Peter gives him a moment to prepare then completes the hug for him. He fits neatly under Harley’s arms and curls around his torso. Harley freezes, heart pounding as his breathing turns shallow. Peter doesn’t tighten his grip or loosen it—he holds utterly still and waits with bated breath for Harley to relax or pull away. With painfully robotic articulation, Harley slowly lowers his arms until they fall around Peter’s shoulders.

The TV plays on as they stand together, stiff but entwined in the center of the room. When Harley’s heart rate slows from its thundering gallop, Peter adjusts to a more natural hold. He lowers his forehead to Harley’s shoulder and curls his arms firmly around his back.

For a moment, Harley maintains his steel frame but then he releases a pent up breath and sags into Peter like a wind-up toy that finally ran out of juice. His hold firms as he shores Peter up in his arms and suddenly they’re embracing properly. Peter’s heart trips and he squeezes his eyes shut as Harley’s breath tickles his neck. He didn’t expect it to feel like this. Despite his teasing tone, he was serious about the fundamentals of hugging and normally he’s on the top of the hug—the enveloper rather than the envelopee. May, Ned, MJ, Pepper, Morgan—he likes to hold his people close and shield them from any harm that may come their way.

He’s rarely the one being shielded. He thought he would feel like a child or a wilting heroine, but that’s not the case at all.

Safe. He feels safe. Cherished.

They stand that way until Peter’s lower back aches from holding the position but he can’t pull away, not while Harley is still holding him and his heart is beating calmly under his cheek. Exhaustion pulls at him, coaxing him to suggest they take this to the bed, but that’s not what this is. Harley doesn’t want to cuddle him. He doesn’t even want to hug him. He’s only doing it so when Morgan demands her hug in the morning before they leave, it’s not a shock to his system.

That doesn’t stop him from leaching every possible crumb of comfort from Harley’s embrace until the moment Harley leans back and his arms uncurl to slip down Peter’s sides before falling away entirely. When Peter releases him, Harley takes a step back and the spell breaks.

Peter crosses his arms and keeps his chin low as he asks, “Think you’re ready?”

Harley’s gaze flits to Peter’s then away. He clears his throat. “Yeah. Yeah, I think so.”

“Cool.” Peter licks his lips then tips his head woodenly towards the bed before breaking away from Harley’s draw.

Harley mirrors him on the other side of the bed and together they settle against the headboard with the blanket over their laps while the TV flashes. Wordlessly, Peter holds out his hand and after only a moment of contemplation, Harley takes it.

~*~

See the full post

66 notes - Posted May 13, 2022

#2

Lemon Boy - parkner - Updates every Tuesday (CST) through 03/07/23

Harley is adrift, bitter, and resentful after losing Tony and his family as he knew it three years ago. When he inherits a rundown house in Brooklyn, he abandons the shattered remains of his dreams, his family, and himself for something he can fix.

Peter grieves as he always has; he buries himself in responsibility and pretends everything is fine. It works until he moves in with Harley, who doesn't suffer fools or liars. The problem is Peter has been fooling himself for so long he can't separate the mask from the truth.

Excerpt under the cut:

“You’re still up?”

He tears bleary eyes from the board he’s been trying and failing to measure correctly and finds Peter at the top of the stairs peering down at him.

“When’d you get in?”

Peter’s eyes sweep over him. “Just now.”

He looks as ragged as Harley feels. His hair is a tangled matted mess, his lip is freshly split, and there is a bruise poking out of his collar. Under the bare bulb hanging over the stairs it looks weirdly hand-shaped.

“You okay?” Harley asks before he thinks better of it.

Peter’s eyebrows shoot into his hairline. “Of course. Are you?”

He picks up his measuring tape. “Why wouldn’t I be?”

Peter starts down the stairs. “Well, for one thing, you look like shit. For another—,”

Harley slams down the tape measure and scowls at Peter as he steps off the bottom stair. He’s actually wearing his boots for once.

“Nobody fucking asked you.”

“You literally just did.” His infuriating little smirk breaks the scabbing on his split lip.

“You’re bleeding, idiot.” Harley tosses a towel at him even though it’s not remotely sanitary. “You know you’re not fooling anyone, right?”

Peter pauses in dabbing a semi-clean part of the towel on his lip. “I’m not trying to fool anyone,” he lies like a fucking liar.

“Bullshit.” Harley plants his palms on the make-shift workbench and leans over it. “Let me guess, you get into fights at night to bleed off all that ugliness that builds up inside you during the day so you can go back to pretending to be an innocent little flower for your friends and family.”

Peter stares at him with wide eyes, towel held aloft but forgotten.

“You’re not fooling anyone,” he repeats, “so quit it with the song and dance. It’s annoying and insulting.”

“Oh.” Peter sets the towel on the workbench with wooden movements. “Uh, okay.”

They stare at each other until it’s awkward.

“Well. Bye then.” Peter turns on his heel and retreats upstairs.

Harley shakes his head. He’ll never understand that guy.

116 notes - Posted September 13, 2022

My #1 post of 2022

“Harley James Keener, what are you doing to that boy?”

“What? I’m not doing anything!”

“If you’re playing with his heart, I will be so disappointed in you. I raised you better.”

“Playing with his— We’re in a relationship, ma!”

“For five years! And yet all you’ve ever told me about him is how annoying he is.”

“He is!”

“Then he comes here and it turns out that boy worships the ground you walk on.”

That pulls Harley up short. “What? No he doesn’t. He barely tolerates me.” He wants to call the words back as soon as he says them because that’s not how you’re supposed to think of your boyfriend, but Mama just sighs at him. Exasperated.

“Honey, open your eyes. I know you’re scared of bein’ hurt or bein’ left behind, but that boy is nothin’ like your daddy. He would do anything for you. I can tell just by the way he looks at you.”

She pats his hand then leaves him alone in the chicken coop to digest that heaping spoonful of reality stew. Clearly, she doesn’t know what she’s talking about… Right?

180 notes - Posted February 26, 2022

Get your Tumblr 2022 Year in Review →

[cherryjuicegf]

trissefer one-shots

still i will live here | 709 words, T, fluff, read on tumblr

Yennefer smiles. She’s better at reading thoughts. Easier to believe.

Easier to be believed.

“Yennefer.”

She raises her look, sees as Triss tilts her head. And knows, at once, what is asked of her.

Triss had always been eager to believe big words anyway.

santa rosa | 703 words, T, fluff, read on tumblr

"I wouldn't choose these if I were you." 

Yennefer raises her eyebrows, looks at the red round plum in her hand. "Oh?" she turns back at the woman, voice masked with stability.

The woman's lips quirk at the edges and she tilts her head. "The red ones aren't as ripe." She takes a deep purple fruit in her hand, almost black, and offers it to Yennefer. Her voice is soft like velvety peaches. "Try this one." 

frinfran one-shots

a reward | 664 words, G, fluff, read on tumblr

“It’s a beautiful lullaby,” she hears her voice and she didn’t control it, but she found it sweeter than usual. She was rarely rewarded for not controlling.

other

recognition | 1.1k, yennefer character study, G, read on tumblr

Her mirror looks so empty, hanging on the wall, empty like a phantom and flooding all the same, as though she’s swallowed down the whole world to define her.

She has many names.

Yennefer < “white fairy”, “white phantom” (from Welsh “gwyn/gwen” = white/fair/blessed + “hwyfar” = smooth/soft or phantom/spirit/fairy).

the swallow's nest | 3.7k, T, found family, mcd, book spoilers, read on tumblr

It’s an old story.

She can’t help it, in a way, being there at the end of all things and gazing as they collapse in front of her eyes. And this, oh, it was beautiful. Doomed from the start, as she’s now looking back, but she would lie if she said she would change it, the little that was given to her. The warmth and the safety and the smiles, and the family. It was beautiful.

It didn’t change anything. It was beautiful, and it was only there.

(my masterlist)

[aplushemporium]

//Since I didn’t get many asks on a lot of memes, and I got lots of incorrect quotes, HERE’S A FEW INCORRECT QUOTES because I say so. (feel free to send in pencils for more :D)

mixed blogs and muses from here and pocket’s (@squidsavior) and fwembs:

Keiko:  I was hanging up the washing, and my arms fell off!

(source: bluey)

———

Gold Bone: Your head's SO BIG! What's it full of anyway? NoThIng???

[Gold Bone pops off the "lid" to Blue's head...revealing steaming hot soup inside.]

Blue: Soup

Gold Bone: [unsettled] Oh.

(source: chikn nuggit)

———

Ana: The grown-ups won't help us!

Lulu: Well, then we need more kids!

(source: bluey)

@cobraghost and @ghostcoper related ones:

Billy Joe Cobra: [Curled up on the ground, crying very hard] My face is so ugly right noo-oo-oow.

Cooking Mama: He just had his first ugly cry. So ugly! It was beautiful, actually.

(source: centaurworld)

———

Spencer: What are you doing?

Billy Joe Cobra: Stargazing.

Spencer: Why are there pictures of you taped to the ceiling?

Billy Joe Cobra: The stars are beautiful tonight.

(source: tumblr)

———

Ana: So that's why I'm going to write a letter to the toilet fairy.

Billie Joe Cobra: Well, that's the only way things will change!

(source: bluey)

@thetravelershub related ones:

[If Gwen had a baby phase...]

Nurse Waddle Dee: Hi m’am, welcome to the ER. How can I help you?

Guest F: My 6-month old is having really bad diarrhea and she’s been really fussy!

Nurse Waddle Dee: Okay, we’re gonna get her checked out right now...is that chocolate milk in your baby’s bottle?

Guest F: What?

Nurse Waddle Dee: M’am it’s very important that you don’t give your baby chocolate milk.

Guest F: Oh this isn’t chocolate milk, it’s coffee. She just loves it

[The nurse waddle dee stares at Guest F in disbelief.]

(source: steveioe)

———

[Guest E is sitting on a chair of toilet paper roles in the shelves of an aisle.]

Gwen: Can I help you?

Guest E: (deadpan) Wish you could, mate.

(source: bluey)

———

Mimi: That painting's plotting my destruction!

(source: pound puppies 2010)

@hal-in-the-family related ones:

Jobski: MAGIC CLAW HAS NO CHILDREN. HIS DAYS ARE FREE AND EASY.

(source: bluey)

———

[The gang is looking at a wall of paintings that was JUST revealed from under a layer of dust]

Keiko: These are very nice. Why didn't you tell us you liked to paint?

Qudy: When would I have possibly—

Ankh: I have notes.

(source: centaurworld)

———

Momotaro: this place is really scary, kubi-san.

Qbby: No it's not, Momo. It's all in your mind.

Momotaro: well, my mind is pretty scary place.

(source: rugrats)

@heroproven and @rathalascendant related ones:

Hunter: Don't worry, I've got a few knives up my sleeve.

Qudy: I think you mean cards.

Mari: She did not.

Hunter, pulling out knives: I did not.

(source: tumblr?)

———

Hunter: Please don't tell anyone that I sleep in my clothes...

(source: tumblr?)

———

Mari: How many monsties is too many??

Hunter:

Hunter: What did you do?

Mari: Don't go into the kitchen

(source: tumblr?)

[theonceandfutureking6481]

BBC's Merlin Season 1 Episode 1: The Dragon's Call Analysis

*SPOILERS- FOR THE WHOLE SHOW*

So I just re-watched episode 1 of Merlin, The Dragon's Call and I thought I'd post my thoughts here, since this is the kind of thing I always wanted after I watched Merlin for the first time. Sorry, it's quite long!!

This episode is great fun to watch but also really interesting from a thematic perspective, as it introduces all the key characters and many key themes that continue throughout the show.

Setting it up as subverting traditional telling's of the legend

The wonderful thing about Arthurian legend is how many ways you can tell it, there is very little canon, it's whole point is that it has been reinterpreted time and again to say different things, be that as it may there are traditional elements which tend to remain constant and Merlin keeps some of these but many it takes out and it sets that up here.

The introduction is like a fairytale, "the young warlock arriving at the gates of Camelot", feels very much like the introduction to a fairy tale. This is on one hand telling us that this is a story we know like any fairytale, but the very fact that Merlin is young shows us that it is going to be different.

On the side, I love the line "A boy that will in time father a legend", because there's just this wonderful gap between the audience and the characters (as there is throughout the whole story), we know that Merlin will do great things, we know that Arthur will too, they are stories we have heard (tying again into that fairytale esque introduction), and its wonderful to know that, to see Merlin and know that he is destined for greatness.

Introduction to characters:

I haven't got a specific section for Merlin here, but its sort of strewn throughout everyone elses.

Morgana:

If you know Arthurian legend you will know that in many (even most) versions of the story Morgana is a villain, so her introduction here is both scary and fascinating. She is so clearly not a villain, and you wonder (if Merlin stays true to this element) what is going to change and happen that she will become one. I knew from the start that Morgana would become a villain (I had heard a lot of spoilers), so it was especially tragic and interesting to watch her character arc because I always knew. Interestingly she is immediately set up in alliance with Merlin, even though they barely interact. We know that he is a sorcerer, and her first lines are oppositional to Uther's stance on magic, she out of everyone in Camelot seems the most likely ally. This is the start of what becomes parallel character arcs, Morgana and Merlin are both fighting for magic to become legal but they end up going about it in different ways, and one is the main villain, the other our hero. They are the same and yet opposites, and the setting up starts from here.

Arthur:

Arthur appears quite simply to be a spoiled bully, not exactly what we expect from the King Arthur we know and love. The position he starts in though is important for a key element of the story which is Merlin and Arthur creating a better world in many ways directly oppositional to Uther's teachings, based on love, kindness, willingness to put others first and respect for others. Uther's world is one where strength is rewarded and he is (in a more adult way than Arthur) a bully, as we learn later he is someone who takes his anger and fear out on others, who takes advantage of his position to hurt people even those he loves. Uther can be a good king, but not when it asks him to make sacrifices of his worldview or things that really matter to him. Uther teaches Arthur some important things but there are many things Arthur has to unlearn, and these bullish tendencies, and lack of respect for others inherent in them are one of them. We do however see Arthur's inherent nobility and goodness in this episode. When he lets Merlin go because even though he's an idiot "he's a brave one", it shows us how Arthur respects what people do rather than who they are. Uther wouldn't of let Merlin go (though to be fair Uther probably wouldn't of picked a fight with a peasant), he would have thought that the law had to be upheld no matter the individual circumstance. Merlin attacked the prince that is definitely illegal but Arthur respects his courage (even though it came at the cost of his humiliation), and there is something different to Uther in that, even good.

Merlin and Arthur:

This episode aside from setting the tone for the more hilarious aspects of Merlin and Arthur's relationship establishes some other interesting things about what they are going to be to each other in this version of the story. Traditionally Merlin is Arthur's teacher, often tutoring him as a child, obviously this doesn't happen here but they retain that element of teaching here. Kilgharrah literally says that maybe it is Merlin's job to change the fact that Arthur's an idiot. Merlin challenges Arthur from the start, willing to criticise him and treat him as an equal (which Arthur actually appears to love), and we see perhaps what Merlin is going to teach Arthur and the more noble elements of Arthur's character that Merlin's going to bring. It is also only within the context of his interactions with Merlin that we see Arthur's best side (at least in this episode). Merlin shows Arthur that he has to treat all people with respect, Arthur recognises that Merlin is brave and full of qualities that Arthur himself admires. When Merlin saves Arthur's life you can see Arthur re-evaluating everything he thought he knew about him, there is a respect there.

Arthur's Mum Igraine

She's not a big part of this episode but she was mentioned and I think its interesting how she's represented. In many ways her representation is highly simplistic, she falls to the fate of many fairy tale mothers in being dead before the story begins, she's a plot device. She is presented (not outright but implied) with all the stereotypical virtues mothers are ascribed with, the woman who's trying to kill Arthur this episode talks to Uther about how hard it must have been for Arthur to grow up without a mother. It's not a huge scene but its an insight into Arthur's character, he was brought up with all the hate and bullishness of Uther without a mother who could have taught him love and kindness. As we later learn Igraine's death triggered the great purge, her loss very much symbolises the loss of love within the kingdom, both in what Arthur's like at the beginning as well as what Camelot has become under Uther's leadership.

Gwen (and Merlin):

She is wonderful and sweet and interestingly (especially for an audience that knows Arthur is going to marry her one day) a servant. It is interesting that the two people who become in the show (and we know as an audience will one day be) closest to Arthur are servants.

The thing about Arthurian legend is that typically its very much set within a context of Medieval feudalism, which means stringent social barriers. The code of equality inherent in the idea of a Round Table is equality among nobles, the code of chivalry is a code of honour for knights not for ordinary people. It's a reflection of the social realities of the era that inspires much of the aesthetic of Arthurian legend as well as the era in which most key tenants of the legend were formed. In making Merlin (Arthur's teacher & (in this show) best friend/soulmate) and Guinevere (Arthur's wife) servants, this show is changing this idea for one more reflective of our own times. It is about absolute equality of all people, and as I've said already the inherent value that every single human being has and the individual capabilities for nobility and goodness and everything the Knights Code admires. It thus sets the tone for what Arthur is going to represent, not just the ideal of knighthood and courage but the ideal of kingship for all people and the ideal of the world that matters to every person.

The self reproducing nature of love and hate

This is an idea which I've always viewed as the main theme of Merlin, the idea that hate begets itself, as does love. This episode is a perfect encapsulation of that theme which recurs again and again. Uther kills a man who is innocent (in the sense that he didn't actually hurt anybody) and the man's mother seeks vengeance and in doing so kills more innocent people because she hates Uther enough that she doesn't care who else she hurts to get at him. This happens again and again in the show, but what this show does that I love is turn it into a main theme by depicting the reverse. Arthur and Merlin are great because they act against this world of Uther's creation, they act with love and compassion and respect for all people, the ends rarely justify the means and most importantly, especially when their actions seem morally grey, they are always motivated by their love for others (not fear or hate- unlike Uther and any number of villains). Uther is the main villain of the show precisely because it is his actions that create every other villain they encounter, Morgana sums it up nicely and somewhat ominously (given what side she ends up on)- "the more brutal you are the more enemies you'll create". Uther views that brutality as strength, but it is the weakness at the heart of his kingdom, it is what makes Camelot a worse place it is what puts everyone he cares about in danger. Essentially the plot of the first episode sets up the cycle of violence that Uther started, though it doesn't set up Merlin and Arthur as breaking it it does set up the idea of equality and respect for all people that Arthur will learn and is essentially opposed to the brutality and cruelty and hate represented by Uther.

Fun non-analysis things

It mightn't seem like it but I do actually watch Merlin for reasons other than copious analysis of themes. It is a highly enjoyable show with characters and relationships (Merthur but also just generally the wonderful representation of friendship and loyalty) I love, and its actually really funny.

Gwen saying "Who'd want to marry Arthur" is peak comedy because we all know, well you.

The weird set up in Gaius' first scene as him being bumbling and slightly insane (in the mad wise old man sort of way), there is literally no carry through, he's not even like this in the rest of the episode, but its hilarious so who cares.

Merlin and Arthur's whole exchange is the funniest thing and Arthur had every insult coming. Also this is exactly how you set up enemies to lovers.

All the writers names begin with J? It's just something I notice every time the intro credits roll and it's just funny (Julian Murphy, Johnny Capps, Jake Michie and Julian Jones)- also two Julian's, I mean what are the chances?

[findroleplay]

Fandoms Galore

Hey everyone!  I’m Tulsa and I want to be your new roleplay partner (pls, I’m lonely).  I mostly do fandom plots, however there are a few cliche pairings I might be able to be roped into. I love all things fantasy and love for the most part! 

  Just a few quick things to note before the fun stuff, 

I’m 23, so you being 18+ is a MUST

I only write in 3rd person and would prefer you do the same

As for doubling, that’s something I don’t do. I think it’s easier and more fun to focus on one story/couple.  I’ll play side characters if we need, but I only do one thread.  I hope that makes sense lol

If you’ve read this far, reach out telling me your favorite superhero before introducing yourself :) 

I’m fine with smut but limits can be discussed privately between us

  As for what I’m looking for, I’ll list out the fandoms and pairings I’m most interested in rn: (you&me)

  MCU/Marvel

Loki & Female OC

Vision & Wanda

Bucky & Yelena

Peter Parker & Gwen Stacey (Picky about this one)

Inuyasha

Inuyasha & Kagome

TVD/The Originals

Kol Mikaelson & Female OC

Klaus Mikaelson & Caroline

Teen Wolf

Derek Hale & Paige Krasikeva (AU)

Stiles Stilinski & Lydia

Stranger Things

Billy Hargrove & Female OC

Disney/Fairy Tales

Encanto; Camilo & OC

Alice in Wonderland; Alice & Mad Hatter

Red Riding Hood: Red & ?

  Those are the big name fandoms I’m on the hunt for right now, but I’m also part of others as well as a fan of multiple anime!  PM me if you’re interested at all and we can move to discord :). 

[fishoutofcamelot]

Pokemon AU because why not

Arthur: he would be one of those trainers who obsessively calculates which Pokemon would best balance his team. His main companion was a Shelmet when he was a little kid, but his dad convinced him to give up his beloved Shelmet with the idea that Shelmets were too weak and that he needed something more befitting of his father's legacy. Uther wants him to focus on Fighting-Types so he can one day inherit his father's gym, but Arthur feels like restricting himself to just one type is very imbalanced and would ruin his chances of success. Growlithe is his new companion, but he always secretly keeps an eye out for Shelmets

Gwen: she would catch all the ugly and unpopular ones. When asked about her reasoning for this she says, "if i dont love them, who will?" and then cries as she hugs her Alolan Muk, which she named Sweetie Pie. Unassuming in that you think she won't be hard competition, but the next thing you know her Drowsee has knocked out three of your pokemon and you're all out of Potions

Morgana: the Dark-Type gym leader. She was supposed to take her father's place as leader for his Fight-Type gym, but she's rebellious and edgy and somehow even more competitive than Arthur. Her main companion is a Spiritomb

Merlin: a member of the Elite Four. He likes to hang around Arthur and make fun of him for having taken on the Elite Four about 17 times now, but every time he loses to Merlin. Since Arthur used to be mean to him when they were kids, Merlin considers this poetic justice. Now you probably think he's got all Dragon-Types, being a dragonlord? Nope! In this au, Merlin himself is a rare shapeshifting Dragon-Type pokemon called Emrys (doesn't exist in the canon pokedex, just thought it'd be a cool idea) that has taken the form of a human - of course, Merlin isn't aware of this and thinks he's actually human. Its for this reason that he is uncannily in-tune with his Pokemon, a factor that contributes greatly to his status as the hardest Elite Four member to beat. His team is comprised of cutesie Fairy-Types - but then all of them are heavy-hitting powerhouses. So basically not only is Arthur's Machamp getting K.O'd in one hit, but its getting K.O'd in one hit by a frickin Rhibombee. Merlin finds this absolutely hilarious. His main companion is a Psych/Fairy type called Hatterene. He sucks at naming things and usually names them after the main color of their body

Elyan: his original intention was to do all Normal-Types, but then he learned about the tragic past of how Phantumps are made (souls of lost children possessing tree stumps), and now he exclusively adopts catches Phantumps bc Protective Older Brother Mode: Activated

Gwaine: Fighting-Type. The Fighting-Type gym used to belong to his father until Uther bought it out, something that made his father so upset that he fell ill from stress and later passed away. Gwaine became a drifter, wanting nothing to do with the lifestyle that killed his dad, until he meets Merlin and Merlin teaches him the value of forming friendships with Pokemon. His companion is now a Blaziken named Weed

Lancelot: he scolds the others for being so aesthetic-based with their Pokemon bc that's bad for building a balanced team, but then when you look at his team its just all sword/knight-themed Pokemon. All of them. Except for his main companion, which is a Milotic that was a gift from Merlin

Leon: he takes the Nuzlocke approach - catch the first pokemon you encounter in each new area, let them go when they faint in battle. He has somehow managed to beat the Elite Four with just a Houndoom and an Eggsecutor

Percival: he only has one Pokemon, bc he feels like that's all he needs. He just has one sole Aron, but since he couldn't think of a name he let Gwaine do it for him (which is why its name is 69)

Gaius: another member of the Elite Four. His team is mostly Poison-Type. His main companion is a Gloom, but his Toxicroak is one tough customer. Used to be the Poison-Type gym leader, but decided to retire and gave the gym to Merlin. But then Merlin gave it to some kid named Daegal, much to Gaius's chagrin. The main reason he's so hard to beat is bc he uses so many goddamn Potions

Mordred: he's just a small child starting out on his first big adventure, with a trusty Charmander by his side. He grew up in the foster system, but he has fond memories of the Alakazam that once belonged to one of his foster parents. He hopes to catch an Alakazam as well some day, or really any Psychic-type. He also follows Arthur around like a lost puppy

Gilli: Fire-Type gym leader. His companion is a Centiskorch

Freya: Pokemon breeder with an incredibly vicious Purrloin as her companion. She's the only one the Purrloin - named Cow, for some reason - is nice to. Her dynamic with Arthur is pretty much the "it don't bite" meme

Mithian: a trainer whose father wants her to inherit his Normal-Type gym, but she ran away from home to pursue her dreams. What those dreams are tho, she's not entirely sure yet. She just knows she doesn't want to be a gym leader. Her method of battle mostly involves a lot of stat-changing/HP-draining moves that drive Arthur absolutely ballistic

Elena: doesn't keep pokemon due a traumatic incident in her childhood involving a Grimmsnarl, but makes sure to show up to all of her gf Mithian's battles for support!

Will: you bet your ass he's Arthurs rival. He saw Arthur be a jerk to Merlin when they were all kids and decided to become his sworn enemy. He doesn't stick to any particular type, just whatever he thinks looks cool. His lack of effort when it comes to balancing his team makes Arthur very, very frustrated - especially whenever Will beats him in a battle (which doesn't happen often, but enough for Will to feel properly vindicated). His main companion is a Shieldon that his dad helped him catch when he was a kid, a few months before his father died

[torchwood-99]

14 and 20!

Thank you so much!!!!!

14. At which point do you come up with the title?

Usually just seconds before publishing, and they are often the part that I find the hardest. It's a lot of pressure considering how that's one of the first things a potential reader is going to see.

In fact, I have literally just gone back and edited the title of my latest fic, so it is now called “When You Fall Through the Earth”

20.Tell us the meta about your writing that you really want to ramble to people about (symbolism you’ve included, character or relationship development that you love, hidden references, callbacks or clues for future scenes?)

Here is the fic in question. I have decided to do my most recent one. One, because it is freshest in my hear, and two, so I have a chance to plug it. 

https://archiveofourown.org/works/36164314

My latest fanfic is kind of inspired by Alice in Wonderland. Gwen is Alice, but it is Jack who she follows down a hole. Throughout the whole fic she is trying to follow Jack, who she keeps catching up with only to be left behind again.

Jack keeps running away to catch up with the Doctor, who can 'fix' him, and throughout the whole fic Gwen keeps meeting other characters who need the Doctor fix them. I had a lot of fun including a lot of body horror, which is always a good time.

Suzie plays the part of a Wicked Witch/Big Bad Wolf. The villain in Gwen's fairy tale. It's because she feels like Gwen's counterpart, so she should be the boogeyman for Gwen. As well as this, she was the first real threat Gwen encountered, back when she was new and not yet quite so conditioned to the fear and horror, and I think stuff that scares you when you're too young continues to scare you even as you grow up and face more frightening things.

Even though it was long it was fairly easy to write and I got it all out in one sitting. This is because language wise it is fairly simple, being based on children's fairy tales. And I loved not having to be logical all the time, and just saying 'this is what happened'. And because it is inspired by Alice in Wonderland, when I do include logic, it just makes things even more nonsensical. This meant I could just go wild and I didn't get those blocks trying to the characters from point A to point B. It didn't need to make sense, the characters just needed to act like it did.

I didn't actually mean to include all of the New Who companions (I think I got them in) but by my final draft I had so many included I felt bad leaving out the rest. River, Ryan and Graham were all added in literally at the end, after I had already copy and pasted my fic into a03, but they ended up being a couple of my favourite little moments in the fic. I tried to make each character had something that made it worth tagging them, like a funny line or an interesting moment with another character. 

Even though this whole fic is nonsense, I did manage to give Gwen a bit of a character arc. Earlier on in the fic, Gwen is quicker to give up and accept from help from Suzie, even though it would go badly for her. But she gradually grows tougher and better at handling the weirdness coming her way, following her development in Torchwood. It is also stated at the beginning that Gwen mostly copies Jack, because she doesn't know what she is doing yet. But in trying to follow Jack, Gwen has to keep solving problems and challenges on her own (while Jack seems to just be having tea most of the time.) So that at the end, she can walk away from him.

I struggled ending this fic, because I couldn't decide where Gwen should be. Back in the real world, or the under world, or a bit of a mix. And I couldn't decide if I wanted the tone to shift to realism, or to continue as a fairy tale. In the end, I realised it is because it doesn't feel like Gwen's story has ended yet. I read the fic without Gwen being anywhere (if you read you understand) but the key point is that the journey has left Gwen confident that wherever she ends up, she will be able to handle it.

[ai-katsuu]

Happy Valentine’s Day!

So @cookieek​ posted on the discord sever a cute set of prompts that I answered there so I’d like to do this as well! credits to @lamiahypnosia​ for making these <3

 1. I actually wrote them to say I love you at the end of their story where Jack's curse is broken, but I changed it to some months after since I felt that was too soon. But I do have this clip where it's implied but they don't outright say it! - 

Jack rolled his eyes as she laughed. He took her hand and looked her directly in the eye, “Audrey, I love how different you are from me. I love how...we’re from two completely different backgrounds, how we first met and I sort of didn’t like you at first.” Audrey was about to say something before he held his free hand up and smiled in assurance, “I love how witty you are, how you never miss a chance to say something funny under your breath, even though no one hears it. How you care for Snow White and the rest of the F7 like family even though you just met them. How you understood me even though...you’ve never been in my shoes. This was more than enough to make me hopelessly attracted to you.” he said “I am so, so” he put emphasis on his words, “happy you’re still in my life. If I had to go through those woods again to save you, go through my curse again to meet you....I would happily do it all over again. 

 “You’re a true partner and…” he looked sideways and gave a sheepish smile, “I’m hoping we could become much, much, more than that.” 

 Audrey looked at him and instinctively laced her fingers with his, Jack was quick to reciprocate the action as their eyes locked with the other. “I would want that as well…” she mumbled. Jack mumbled something under his breath that Audrey didn’t quite hear, but it didn’t matter as he smiled soon after and leaned in forward.

2. First date, hmm probably somewhere on the outskirts of Fairy tale Island. Since they went on an adventure I'm sure just to diffuse any lingering awkwardness Audrey would want to go exploring since that's when they were most comfortable with each other. 

 3. Yup! They live in the White Palace with the other partners and while there are maids and staff, I'd say it's Jack who does most of the cleaning in their room since Audrey never,,,,really had a room to begin with 

 4. Jack oh god, he can't stand Audrey's lack of self-care and room maintenance. She never really understood why one needs to brush their hair everyday?? Or other hygiene stuff? Like if you're clothes are clean then why do you need to wash them? Jack is annoyed a lot by that. For Audrey it isn't really a pet peeve but it's the opposite, she doesn't understand why Jack is so consistent with several face masks and perfumes

5. Audrey probably? They're both mature in their own sense and immature at separate times, but Audrey seems like the one to pull them out of any trouble if there is anything suspicious going on (she has been on her toes since she was younger after all!) 

 6. Audrey too! She's been outside of Fairy Tale Island and had been to many countries. Since she wasn't a prince or princess, she's had tons of time of explore and do fun activities. Jack of course has his own idea of fun which she appreciates^^ 

 7. HERE WE GO      

Merlin and Snow - "They pretty tight." "I love how Jack was finally able to find love from another person!" 

 Pino and Gretel - "Judging from all the stories she told me before I met you guys, they look like they've been through a lot in just 8 months?" "You have no idea haha. Audrey's pretty fun to see outside of the workshop." 

 Noki and Goldie - "They're fine. Jack has stopped bothering me about making exquisite stuff for him so I appreciate that." "I find them pretty cute! I love exchanging Valentine's gift ideas with Jack! He's pretty good at them you know?" 

Kio and Peter Pan - "I love Audrey. She's pretty fun to play pranks on or work on them together. We both have had time to spend on the outside world so we make a lot of pop-culture references others don't get." "Jack and Audrey are probably the most photogenic couple I've had taken pictures of, but nothing compared Arthur and Gwen. Now those two look like they'd step out of a portrait" 

Hans and Briar - "Not gonna lie. I had a bit of trouble with Audrey when I first came to the White Palace, I always felt like she was judging me,,,well I was too but still. But we're all good now! I love it when we go on missions together!" "Jack was my best friend first but it's nice to talk her about him. Whenever she needs advice she comes to me so that's something I have pride on!"

Arthur and Gwen - "THE AMOUNT OF TIMES JACK HAS TAUNTED ME THAT I WAS THE LAST ONE TO BREAK MY CUR-" "I love them! They're very nice and sweet!"(edited)

 8. When Jack proposed to Audrey? It was through a big surpise and she had no idea it was coming bc SO many people were involved and he played it like a heist.

 9. ARTHUR WANTS TO VOMIT. Jack kept on taunting him that he was the second to break his curse and not Arthur and he made sure Arthur saw it. But discreetly of course and nothing too much. Mostly just light hand holding, hugs in the hallway, leaning on her shoulder. Overall they're moderate. 

10. Audrey hates getting jealous but she does. It's an internal thing and something she wants to get rid of. She trusts Jack with all her heart but she knows he could've gotten someone else as the richest prince in FT Island so that makes her a bit insecure. Jack on the other hand? No not really. The only time you see him jealous is when Frosts visits because Audrey told him prior that she didn't have a lot of people she was close to so Jack sort of felt special. So you can imagine he felt a little hurt when he found out he wasn't the only one who knew most of her feelings, secrets etc.

[lordterronus]

In response to the Send me a Fandom post, I'll start with Ben 10!

Well technically you’re the second one to ask something for that, but I’ll still answer! 

The first character I fell in love with: This one’s pretty obvious. It’s gotta be the main man himself, Ben Tennyson, wielder of the Omnitrix and saviour of the universe several times over! He’s generally always interesting to watch and see how he interacts with everyone else. His arrogance and childish nature can occasionally be annoying, but overall he’s a great character. 

The character I never expected to love as much as I do now: Probably Eon, specifically from the Race Against Time movie. He was the only actor in that film I felt was doing an actually good job, and I really liked his story in the film. I haven’t seen much of his later iterations though. 

The character that everyone else loves that I don’t: OS Vilgax. He’s definitely the most imposing version of the character, but honestly he’s not really much beyond that and I’m just not all that into him as a character. After his first episode, Secrets, I couldn’t take him all that seriously every other time he showed up for some reason. 

The character I love that everyone else hates: I actually have two I could talk about here, although both are Ben’s transformations and technically not characters of their own. Firstly, I think Nanomech is awesome! In concept he’s great, and although it’s used as a joke more often than not, I actually really like him in the show. He’s like a cyber fairy dude and I think that’s awesome. Secondly, Reboot Wildvine is in my opinion the better Wildvine. I just like him way more. 

The character I used to love but don’t any longer: Cooper. I thought he was pretty cool in the OS, both in terms of his powers and his personality. I kinda wish he was more of a series mainstay at that point. But then AF decided to ruin him by making him into a fricking incel and it sucks. And a small personal issue, but I honestly thought he hadn’t really aged at all since the OS and was expecting them to bring it up. But I guess he’s just naturally short. Which wouldn’t even be an issue if UA didn’t make him all big and bulky. 

The character I would totally smooch: Charmcaster, easily. Because I am a massive simp and badass hot evil magic ladies are the best thing in the whole world. Also she’s just really cool in pretty much every episode I’ve ever seen her in so far. 

The character I’d want to be like: Gwen probably. She always sees the best in people and is always willing to go for the non-violent approach more often than anyone else, and she’s always logically planning and working out plans for what to do, unlike Ben and Kevin who tend to just want to muscle through more often than not. 

The character I’d slap: Grandpa Max, because that dude has a lot of shit to answer for, like sending people into the Null Void without trial, particularly Kevin, the son of his actual old Plumber partner. He knew this and did NOTHING to help Kevin in the OS, and sent him into an alternate dimension prison. Not to say that Kevin in the OS was particularly good, but the fact that he pretty much never tried to do anything really just bothers me the more I think about it. 

A pairing that I love: My favourite ship in the show itself is probably Gwevin, because I feel they have really solid relationship development throughout the show and play off each other extremely well. But if we’re allowed to get non-canon, I really love BenRex and BenRook. BenRex is honestly just a really cool ship to me and I still think Rook Blonko is the best OV love interst even though he isn’t an actual love interest. 

A pairing that I despise: BenKai. It was handled like utter dogshit in Omniverse, to the point where Kai comes off as genuinely abusive to Ben at times. And overall I’m not a fan of how they had to retcon the show’s time travel rules just to make it work and forced this destiny angle onto it. I prefer characters getting together based on mutual feelings and development, not some external force drawing them together. 

Thanks for the ask, Jamma! 

[unreadpoppy]

random OC ask: what would your OC wear on an average day? what would they wear to a special event?

[feel free to include reference images, if you'd like!]

this is the moment that I have been waiting for *takes deep breath*

I wanted to talk about all my girls, so I will. Also, reference pics under the cut.

Gwendolyn Gray: Day to day, she wears a simple dress, usually like one color, pants underneath (even thought she hates pants, but a girl's gotta keep her decency), boots, and over that she wears her armor (which is really just like a leather corset thing and these two leather hand thingies that idk what the name is). Also, the dress is most likely a blue color, considering that's her favorite.

For a special event, she would definetly go with something elegant and flowy and big, like this girl would like some ball gowns so that she can live out her best fairy tale life (although, with her money, she'd probably go with something simpler).

Elizabeth Adawolf: Day to day, she wears practical clothes, like shirt and pants and then her armor on top, most are a dark color like black or dark blue, and she has a hood on the back so she can cover herself.

Special events, she wears red dresses, usually with a deep neckline so she can show off, and with skirts that either flare out or drape (both of these descriptions are based on the two red dresses she actually wore during two special events we had in game).

Nyx Lenoir: Day to day, she wears some very simple dresses, mostly blue, brown or beige, that are all torn and tathered at the bottom due to her being in the woods and being around animals, like her day to day dresses are not in the best shape. Also she likes to wear hats, fits with her witch of the woods aesthetic.

Special events, she'd rather no attend, but since she works for a noble, she has to go to them, and she just wears whatever's handed to her. The one dress I usually put her on is this big, blue one, but if she had a choice, she'd prefer something more simple.

Genevieve von DeWilde: Day to day, she's also a dress girlie but hers are more expensive because she comes from a noble house. So they are a bit bigger, more elaborate, definetly not the greatest for adventuring but hey, when your job is to stay back and cast spells, you can give yourself a treat. Usually she wears some bright colors, like pink, yellows and purple. Also, before she left home, she'd wears gloves all day everyday.

Special events she's going all out, the only one who can and would actually afford a ball gown.

Okay for references, Y'all will be subjected to my drawings so yeah (many of these are veeeery old and also the og designs of the character so yeah anyways) (also some of these photos i found on pinterest, so i can't link to the OG artists)

Gwendolyn, day to day (one of this was one of the first times i drew gwen and the other is the last):

Special event: the pink one she wore it in my dnd game and the blue one is an idealized version of what she would want to wear

Elizabeth Adawolf day to day:

Special events (again, this is what she wore in game):

Nyx Lenoir, day to day:

Special Event:

Genevieve von DeWilde, day to day: (also genevieve used to be galatea but then i changed the name)

Special event:

[firenze11]

A Fearun Tale Teaser

Alistair wrapped his hooded cloak tighter around himself. The brown cloak did a satisfactory job of blending in with the wooden mantle he was standing on. The fireplace beneath him filled the room with sweltering heat in this late summer evening, and it was simply a matter of placing himself in the shadows above that roaring hearth to avoid notice. If he did not move, the others in the room would not notice him. Well, the boy would not at least.

“Brandon,” The old woman croaked. “Climb up here. I want to tell you a story.”

The boy sighed, but he closed the book he had been reading by the fire’s light. He put it away on the shelf next to the bed and his chair, then obediently climbed up into the bed and leaned into his great-grandmother. Despite his young age, he was already a fearun’s height taller than the woman. It had been harder to notice before, but next to the aging woman, the boy’s unhealthy pale skin became more obvious. Many would think that the boy was sick, but the woman had told Alistair the tragic truth. The boy had death in his veins.

“You’re a good boy Brandon,” the matron whispered as she jerkily wrapped her frail arm around the boy. “Have I ever told you the story about the Fearun?”

The boy rolled his silvery white eyes, another sign of his heritage, “You’ve told me lots of stories of Grandma. I don’t remember them all.”

“I don’t think I’ve told you this story before. This one is special.”

At these words, the boy’s sleepy eyes had opened wide, and his back had straightened, but he didn’t speak.

Alistair smirked. The boy was clearly intrigued but was trying not to show it. Alistair found it difficult to estimate ages of the bigger folk, but the boy was probably somewhere between eight and twelve years old. He was old enough that he wanted to avoid appearing to be childish, but young enough that childish things still fascinated him.

“Do you want to know why it’s special?” the woman asked. She knew her great-grandson well.

The boy nodded, and Alistair’s grin only deepened. She had him right where she wanted him.

“This one is special, because it’s true,” the woman breathed.

The boy frowned, and his head jerked back a bit to look more clearly at the woman. His eyes were full doubt.

“You don’t have to believe me now,” the woman said with a knowing smile. “I just ask that you remember this one. Someday, you might believe.”

The boy’s face fell a bit, “Okay. I’ll remember, for you.” The boy’s voice cracked as he spoke.

Alistair felt for the boy. It was a hard thing to watch someone with so much life slowly fade away. The woman did not have many good days left in her. The boy likely sensed this too.

“Thank you, Brandon,” the woman smiled happily.

“I’m going to tell you about a race of people that most people have forgotten ever existed. They are a proud people, a warrior people. They call themselves, the Fearun.”

“The ferun?” The boy tried out the new word.

“Close enough. The Fearun live very long lives. Ten times as long as yours and mine. They live simple lives, hunting and farming. They are very private though and they value their solitude. They particularly don’t like humans stomping into their lives.”

The boy was listening intently, but he still held doubt darkening his face.

“But every once in a great while, they invite a human into their lives. No one’s really sure why they do this. Some people say it’s because they get bored. Others say that those people might get turned into Fearun themselves, and that that’s how they make more of themselves.”

The woman flicked her eyes at the mantle of the fireplace, and Alistair’s smile turned sad.

“However, I have it on very good authority that more than anything, the Fearun love to learn new things. They are incredibly curious you see. So, when you meet a Fearun, its usually because they want to learn from you. And because they value information, they share things about themselves with that human.”

“How come people don’t know about them?” the boy asked with a slight frown.

“For three reasons,” the woman paused to take a drink of water, and the boy fidgeted as he waited. The woman continued, “The first, is that they very rarely share their secrets with anyone. The second, is that they are exceptionally talented at hiding. And the third, is that they are very, very, small.”

“You mean they’re like fairies?”

“Even smaller than most of the fey. I’ve always thought they were more like elves personally. They even have the pointy ears.” The old woman held her fingers up to her own ears to illustrate. “But yes, they are quite small. In fact,” the woman took one of the boy’s hands in hers and held it. “One of them would easily fit into the palm of your hand.”

“Whoa,” the boy looked down at his hand in amazement. Any doubts had cleared from his eyes, and they were now filled only with the wonder of a child discovering that the world was even more amazing than he had believed.

“When a Fearun becomes friends with a human, the Fearun give them something to let other Fearun know that the human can be trusted.”

“Are you friends with a Fearun?” the boy asked.

Alistair smirked. Oh yes, the boy believed her now.

“I am,” the old woman admitted, “and my friend gave me this.”

The old woman took her hands away from the boy’s hand. In it was a bracelet of woven leather strands. The leather strands were thinner even than the threads which made up the boy’s clothing. They were woven together tighter than any human’s big clumsy fingers could ever hope to weave. Just one glance at it though, and a person knew it was hand made. No machine or magic could duplicate this artistry.

“It’s beautiful!” The boy raised the bracelet and examined it.

“Yes it is, and the Fearun make things to last. That bracelet will never wear out. Not even in your lifetime.” The boy looked away from her at this, but she drew his eyes back to her as she continued, “I want you to have it.”

The boy gasped as he looked up at his great-grandmother, “But you said the Fearun only gave these to their friends. I’ve never even met one before.”

“I did, but my friend said it would be alright if I gave this to you. I hope that one day you’ll be able to meet him.”

“I hope so too,” The boy murmured.

“Alright, times up!” A much younger woman walked into the room. She was wearing the uniform of a servant but had the bearing of someone used to be obeyed. “Brandon, it’s time to go.”

“Are you sure you want me to have this?” The boy asked, ignoring the other woman for the moment.

The older woman nodded, “I’m sure. Just promise me you’ll remember the story.”

“I’ll remember,” Brandon promised. He hugged the woman as tight as he could without hurting her, and then clambered down off the bed. “Agatha, look what Grandma Gwen gave me!” He showed the younger woman the bracelet, which he had already put on. Alistair was happy to see that there was plenty of extra bracelet left dangling. Hopefully, there would be enough so that when the boy grew up, he could still wear it comfortably.

“Yes, yes, very nice.” The boy’s nurse babbled. She took him by the shoulders and steered him out of the room, and even though he was also taller than she was, he allowed her to do so. “We’ve got to get going or we’re going to miss your step-father’s party.”

“Tell him that I’m sorry I can’t make it,” The older woman called after them.

“Don’t you worry about that at all, madam,” The younger woman turned to bow reverently. “He’s going to try and come over sometime tomorrow.”

“Well I’d love to see him.”

“And he’ll love seeing you. Alright Brandon, tell your grandmother goodbye.”

“Goodbye Grandma Gwen, I love you.”

“I love you too Brandon,” The older woman smiled.

With that the young woman and the boy left the room.

Alistair and the older woman sat in silence for a few minutes to make sure that the others were not coming back.

“Thank you, Alistair,” the old woman spoke after some time.

Alistair stood up. He took a running jump and leapt off the wooden shelf. The Fearun grabbed the edges of his cloak and hooked his boots into the buckled straps on its hem as he did so. The air caught in his cloak and he glided across the room. Anyone who did not know what they were looking at would simply think that a dead leaf was falling to the floor. Alistair landed lightly on the pillow next to the woman’s head. She turned and laid on her side so that she could see him better, as Alistair kneeled down on his knees to face her.

“I mean it,” she spoke again, much quieter this time. Alistair could see the glassy weariness in her eyes this close to her face. “This means a lot to me.”

“I know,” Alistair spoke loudly enough that she could hear him. “That is why I did it. I cannot guarantee that I or any other fearun will ever meet him again though, or that I will speak to him if I do.”

“That’s okay,” the woman’s eyes were no longer focused on Alistair. “I asked more of you than I should have, but you didn’t hesitate.”

“I am your friend,” Alistair replied with a smile. “Maybe one day I can be friends with him too.” Alistair smiled as he watched his friend’s eyes start to droop. She slept most of the time lately, and Brandon’s visit had tired her out.

“Thank you, Alistair, tell your son I said goodbye,” she whispered as she fell asleep.

“I will. Goodbye Gwen, and as always, you are welcome.”

Alistair waited until she was breathing slowly and steadily. The Fearun sighed as he stood up. He would not be making this trip again. This was his last goodbye to Gwen. Alistair had never told Gwen the main reason the Fearun avoided humans. Fearun were solitary creatures. However, when they did form friendships, they were deep and powerful. Fearun lived so much longer than humans did, that forming a friendship with a human was simply inviting pain into one’s life.

Alistair smiled through his tears as he glided down from the woman’s room in the castle tower. Sometimes that pain was worth it.