#Fairy Court Classifications

[avengedearth]

I was working on a story for a different team and one of my friends helped me categorize that team. We had so much fun we decided to do it for another team. The above list was created from the following descriptions:

Seelie Court: Seelie means "blessed" or "holy" These faeries tend to be more benevolent & will always repay favors, but they also avenge insult. They are prone to mischief and the word "silly" comes from their name. They are typically kinder & have a brighter disposition.

Summer Court: The Summer Court is subordinate to the Seelie Court. They gain power at the Spring equinox. They represent mature life and their focus is on sustaining life, making more pragmatic decisions than the Spring court. They tend to be more arrogant and are capable of cruelty, but are polite well-mannered.

Spring court is also subordinate to the Seelie Court, so they share key values with the summer court. Spring court fae are very focused on nature, growth, and life. They are cheery, peppy, and calmer than the Summer court. They embody the qualities of Spring.

Unseelie Court: The Unseelie Court is typically viewed as the opposite of the Seelie court. They are more malicious and nearly always unfavorable to humans. These faeries are not always evil but they tend to prefer harming rather than helping. Unseelie faeries like to travel in a group at night and assault travelers physically, mentally, and emotionally, especially if they are spiritually ignorant.

Winter Court: The Winter Court is subordinate to the Unseelie Court and gains its power at the Autumn equinox. They epitomize the qualities of Winter. They tend to be more malevolent, but view life and death both as important forces. They are sensible and calculating with a darker disposition. They can be quite cruel.

Autumn Court: The Autumn court is also subordinate to the Unseelie court. They are associated with death and decay and are as equally malevolent as the Winter court. They do a lot of the "dirty work" and trooping for the Winter court. They believe in the expressing of all emotions.

[pinchofhoney]

perfectly flawed

benedict bridgerton x princess!reader

word count: 2.7k

warning: hurt without comfort, it might be suggestive but there's nothing inappropriate about it (friends with benefits but without any details)

summary: Finding love as a princess comes with its challenges, but becoming a mistress was never part of the plan.

a/n: two things; one, over these few months i forgot what it's like to write something that isn't an academic paper. two, in the process of writing it i forgot that i was supposed to write it based on a song. i suppose i'm already a different person than i was just the week ago when i asked you for your opinion, but regardless, feel welcome to read this,, thing<33

pages that may interest you: masterlist ♡ taglist ♡ who i write for

Lady Whistledown’s Society Papers

London, 18th April 1814

Dearest Readers,

The Season has barely begun, yet the glittering ballrooms of London are already abuzz with whispers and speculation. The cause of this fervour? None other than the captivating niece of Her Majesty. The fairy-like young lady, whose arrival in London coincided with the Season’s beginning, has ignited a flurry of theories.

Is she a princess, a countess, or perhaps a secret agent on a mission? The whispers echo through the salons, each speculation more imaginative than the last. Her regal bearing and the way she holds her fan hint at noble lineage, but her eyes hold secrets that defy easy classification. Could she be a pawn in a political game, or does her purpose lie closer to matters of the heart? Suitors line up, eager to claim her hand, but our debutante remains an unknown figure, casting doubt upon the intentions behind her smile.

Gentlemen of distinction have flocked to her side, vying for her attention. Lord Pembroke, the dashing heir to a vast estate, has been seen trailing her like a devoted puppy. The Duke of Ashford, brooding and aloof, has deigned to engage her in conversation. And then there is Captain Sinclair, whose sea-green eyes promise both danger and adventure.

At Lady Featherington's soirée, our young lady engaged in spirited conversation with none other than Miss Eloise Bridgerton. Their conversation delved into matters of politics—a most unconventional choice. Is our French princess a revolutionary sympathizer, or does she simply relish the thrill of intellectual sparring?

Rest assured, dear readers, that Lady Whistledown shall be your faithful guide through the twists and turns of this unfolding narrative. Prepare your fans and polish your silver spoons, for the London Season has just begun, and in the shadow of the Queen's niece, our world is poised to be turned upside down. Society must brace itself for a whirlwind of speculation, as we stand on the brink of a most intriguing chapter.

Yours Truly,

Lady Whistledown

‎

At the very core of the French Empire, you were raised as the epitome of grace and subtlety. With royal blood coursing through your veins, you were groomed to be the perfect lady, the jewel of the imperial court. Every step you took, every word you said, was a careful composition, painting the portrait of an eminent lineage.

From a young age, you were taught the art of etiquette, your days filled with lessons on poise, embroidery, and the subtle language of the fan. Your attire, always impeccable, was the evidence of your status and breeding. The world perceived you as the embodiment of perfection, a delicate blossom requiring protection from the harsh realities beyond the palace walls.

Yet, behind the facade of the devoted princess, a secreted truth blossomed. Beneath the tangled layers of silk and lace, your spirit, unyielding and untamed, stood in defiance of the expectations of courtly life. The allure of royal grandeur held little sway over you, and the burden of societal obligations felt like a daily donning of a suffocating corset.

The shimmering balls and elaborate rituals became stifling, making your heart to ache for those fleeting moments of genuine connection, uncontrolled laughter, and a subtle taste of the forbidden. Although French suitors eagerly fought for your attention and the allure of your family's wealth, your soul yearned for a partner who would daringly challenge the scripted norms, infusing romance with a breath of spontaneous authenticity.

And thus, to address your reluctance to accept the prearranged path, your mother came up with a plan. Sending you to the splendour of London under the watchful eye of the Queen, your beloved aunt, she hoped this change of scenery would guide you towards a dutiful marriage, in line with the expectations befitting your royal lineage. What slipped out of her seemingly perfect idea, however, was the playful nature of fate, particularly when guided by those who avoid predictability. So, your journey to the bustling heart of British metropolis grew with an outcome greatly different from your mother's expectations.

Your aunt, holding the most esteemed position in the United Kingdom, was admired for her wisdom and understanding. But the hours of lessons imparted to you from an early age, combined with your ability to conceal your rebellious nature from the public eye, had transformed you into a pretty great actress. And your performance, crafted over the years, was so convincing that even someone as sharp as the Queen herself failed to see through the carefully constructed act.

But perhaps, this time, you've got too close to the edge, because in the blink of an eye, you found yourself entangled in a situation that, if exposed, would not only scandalize all of England but also cast a shadow over France, where your family hopefully awaited news of your impending marriage.

And how did it all start?

The beginning of your tale remains in the memories of that fateful debutante ball, where a single innocent look changed the course of your luck. It was a brief moment, a shared exchange of glimpse between you and Benedict Bridgerton, that seemed to stretch time itself. In the glimmer of that ballroom, his bright eyes locked onto yours from across the room, and the world around you seemed to slow, as if giving space for something beyond a mere glance.

You had no idea what captivated you about the man who didn't really stand out among the other attendees, but most likely it was this quiet strength of his gaze. The gaze without the typical fascination you'd grown used to as a princess of the French Empire or the usual envy that flickered in the eyes of those desperate to secure a partner who determined their life's worth. Benedict's gaze was just different. It held no trace of the thought that you were merely a silly princess with a title. It carried the feeling that you were a masterpiece, a creation worthy of admiration. And it stirred a yearning within you, an insatiable thirst for freedom and authenticity that your heart had craved for so long.

A brief exchange of words with Benedict at the ball opened your eyes, making you believe that not every man who sought your company was doing so only for your family's wealth. As you danced together, his touch ignited a spark, a fleeting moment of intimacy that lingered long after the music faded into the night, and each stolen glance exchanged across the crowded ballroom carried the weight of unspoken desires. It felt as though the connection that binds soulmates was about to disappear when your paths crossed, signalling that you had, finally, found one another.

And so, it began. A secret affair that grew under the cloak of darkness, far from the prying eyes of nosy socialites waiting to catch a glimpse of scandal. In the hidden corners of London, where shadows whispered secrets and the night sky painted a canvas of stars, you found comfort in the arms of Benedict, a man not necessarily burdened by the weight of societal expectations, yet bound by his own hesitation to commit to anything beyond the present moment.

As the inappropriate meetings became routine, you assumed the role of a mistress, a position you never imagined yourself in, and the only rule you committed to follow during your secret dates was the lack of romantic feelings. Yet, despite your best efforts to maintain a facade of emotional distance, your heart had a way of defying logic. With each stolen moment spent in Benedict's company, you found yourself drawn deeper into the labyrinth of emotions, a labyrinth fraught with longing and desire. What started as a simple agreement, devoid of romantic sentiments, soon evolved into something far more sincere.

And it genuinely scared you.

You walked nervously around the place of your every rendezvous with Benedict, your fingers nervously picking the cuticles near your nail—a gesture unsuitable for the lady you were expected to be. But in the fuss of events that have happened in London so far, such a thing seemed a minor violation. Not only did the task of slipping unnoticed from the royal palace grew increasingly difficult, but the relentless fluttering in your heart at the mere thought of Bridgerton haunted your sleepless nights.

Throughout your life, you had yearned for a love different from the one you had observed in French society. And now, when the opportunity to live your fairy tale presented itself, reality proved to be just an unrequited feeling. While you were happy to see Benedict and yearned for his presence, it seemed he may only crave your body, not the depths of your soul.

You wanted today's meeting to be the last one, a meeting where nothing would happen. Or so you convinced yourself. The purpose was clear: to say goodbye to Benedict and to draw the curtain on a relationship built on fleeting glances and secret meetings. And even though probably the best choice would have been to just stop showing up on these encounters and withdrawing from public spaces where you might cross paths, you didn't want to just pretend that nothing had ever happened between you two. The social season was still around you, and avoiding the consequences of your actions would only complicate everything. Maybe not for Benedict, but for you, for sure.

And then, the silence broken every second by your anxious heartbeat was completely shattered by the sound of footsteps. Turning, you were met with the sight of Benedict Bridgerton approaching with firm strides, and his presence seemed to overshadow your plans to say goodbye when, for a moment, the world seemed to pause as you lost yourself in the intensity of his gaze.

Without a word, he wrapped his arms around your waist, and his touch sent pleasant shivers down your spine. The warmth of his embrace, coupled with the subtle brush of his breath against your skin, stirred conflicting emotions within you. Your heart quickened its pace, betraying the reason you came for this final meeting.

“I've been thinking about you all day,” Benedict whispered, and his breath caressed your delicate skin. But as much as the desire for intimacy flickered within, you held steadfast to the resolution you had set for this meeting.

With a gentle pull, you extricated yourself from his embrace, creating a safe distance between the two of you. The tingling sensation stayed on your skin, as a remaining echo of his touch that resonated through every fibre of your being. ��We need to talk,” you said, your voice steadier than your racing heart. Benedict's eyes, once filled with a yearning, now searched yours for an answer to an as yet unspoken question.

“Talk?” he asked, his voice laced with a hint of playful intrigue as he arched one of his eyebrows with his signature smile dancing upon his lips. “About what?” he pressed, and with an air of casual confidence, he crossed his arms over his chest as he ambled a few steps to the side. “You're not going to tell me you've fallen in love, are you, princess?”

A nervous laugh bubbled up from within, escaping between your lips before you could hold it back. In an attempt to mirror Benedict's movements, you crossed your arms over your chest, your head shaking with feigned amusement. “Fall in love?” you repeated his words, adopting a tone of playful dismissal. “Don't be ridiculous, of course not,” you declared, adding a scoff at the end, as if to fortify the illusion of light-hearted banter. Hoping to shield your true feelings, now concealed beneath a facade of amusement, you met Benedict's gaze with a look of mock disbelief.

“We should end this relationship,” the words spilled from your lips, hoping your voice wouldn't betray how fast your heart was beating at that moment. “I did not come to London to become just another woman in the arms of the Viscount's son. If my mother were to find out, she'd blame herself for raising me poorly, and that's not the truth,” you began to rationalize, your words flowing as an attempt to justify the decision you had set before both of you. “I have obligations to fulfil, a path to follow, and I won't achieve that by sleeping with you.”

Benedict watched you in silence, not knowing if you were serious. His gaze bore into you, seeking answers within the depths of your eyes.

“Now you're the one being ridiculous,” he retorted, his tone carrying a gentle scolding. Leaning against a nearby counter, he looked at you with a combination of disbelief. “Since when have you cared so deeply about living up to your mother's expectations?”

“I've come to understand that my mother wants what she believes is best for me. As a princess of the French Empire, there are certain expectations I must meet, whether I appreciate them or not,” you said, closing the physical distance between yourself and Benedict. Self-control was what kept your hands from reaching out as you stopped just in front of him. “Think about what would happen if our secret were to be exposed. It would be the end for both of us, and the scandal would echo across the entire continent. The Queen herself would likely seek our demise.” You emphasized your words by pointing a finger at yourself. “I cannot ruin the honour of the entire royal family for a fleeting moment of pleasure.”

Benedict met your gaze with a silent acknowledgment of the truth in your words, yet beneath the veneer of understanding, a flicker of defiance danced in his eyes. “So, what are you saying? You're suddenly prepared to sacrifice your entire life for the expectations of your family that would see you married and bearing children with some man who would likely make you miserable?” he asked, a trace of frustration evident in his voice.

A moment of silence ensued as you fixed your gaze on Benedict. Finally, a disbelieving scoff escaped your lips, and you shook your head. Taking a few steps away, you placed your hands on your hips, a gesture mirroring the internal conflict within you. “Perhaps you haven't noticed yet, Benedict, but I am a woman. And in a world dictated by the whims of men, the role assigned to women is often reduced to that of an obedient wife, tasked with bringing some affluent man's heir into the world. It's not about what I want; it's about what everyone else around me expects.”

As Benedict made a move to step closer, a surge of urgency propelled you to speak before he could interject. “I should be going now. The palace servants are growing increasingly suspicious.”

Despite the assertiveness in your tone, Benedict, keen to the nuances of unspoken emotions, closed the physical gap between you, and his touch went through the delicate fabric of your glove as he gently took your hand. “We can at least end this in a better way,” he suggested, his voice tinged with a suggestive undertone as he met your gaze.

A resolute “No” escaped your lips, infused with an overt firmness born out of the fear that another moment in his gaze might make you give in to your heart's desires. You couldn't afford the risk of surrendering to the tempting pull of his lips once again, the very lips you yearned for. “That's all I wanted to tell you today,” you continued, gently squeezing his hand as if to punctuate your resolve. Purposefully avoiding his gaze, you added, “It's over, but know that every meeting with you has been a pleasure, Mr. Bridgerton. Goodbye.” Articulated so, you withdrew your hand from Benedict's grasp, leaving only the delicate glove in his hold.

With a swift spin, you turned away and your hurried footsteps carrying you out into the rain-soaked streets of London. A quick glance confirmed the absence of prying eyes, making you hasten your pace, putting distance between yourself and the building that housed your shattered heart. As you took each step, the words exchanged at that moment of parting reverberated in your mind. The relation between you and Benedict had ignited sparks of passion and left a sweet ache of longing. Now, the path ahead led you towards the marriage your family desired, a hopeful step to fill the void left by thoughts of Bridgerton.

[mask131]

Green spring: Seelie and Unseelie

SEELIE AND UNSEELIE

Category: Scottish folklore

When people look up at fairies, usually one of the first thing they will stumble upon on the Internet is “Seelie Court and Unseelie Court”.

The Seelie and Unseelie Court (also known sometimes as simply “the Seelie fairies and the Unseelie fairies”) is a type of fairy division/fairy classification from Scottish folklore – and it is now one of the most famous classification of fairies in the modern world. According to this divide, the “Seelie” fairies are fairies that are generally benevolent towards humans: they return kindness, they can bring favors, they can ask for or give help, and if someone offends them they warn first before striking. These fairies are still dangerous, as all fairies are: like all fairies they are prone to revenge and mischief, but they are generally the “good guys” so to speak. In contrast, the “Unseelie” fairies are the malevolent and negative fairies, those that attack people without warning, and sometimes without reason, and ally themselves with witches and other dark entities of evil power. The “Unseelie” fairies include various negative entities of the folklores of the British isles: the baobhan sith taking the shape of a beautiful woman to lure and kill men, the redcaps who live in ruins and dye their hats with human blood, the nuckelavee who is a grotesque skinless centaur bringing disease and famine everywhere, the shellycoat who is a bogeyman of rivers, and the Sluagh (a host of malevolent fairies/angry ghosts/nocturnal spirits who you better not cross path with).

[Note that while the term “Court”, in modern fiction, has been reused numerous times with the modern meaning of “court” – having a queen and a king, and being made of nobility – the term seems originally to just be a word meaning a “host” or a “group” in general, since in Scottish folklore there is no talk of “Unseelie king or queen” for example.]

Now… all that being said, the divide of Seelie/Unseelie seems to be a latter addition or invention to the Scottish myth of the fairies. Before that, it seems there was just “Seelie” (it is clear that “Unseelie” was based on the word “seelie”): because “seelie” or “seely” was a term used in Scotland, but also in Northern England, to designate fairies as a whole. “Seelie” is a term that means “blessed”, “happy” or “lucky”, and it seems to have been used the same way fairies as a whole were called “good neighbors” or “the fair folk” – it was an euphemisms, or a counter-name, destined to flatter and please the supernatural beings, in hope of avoiding their wrath. It seems that originally “Seelie” was the name of all fairies as a whole, but then somehow the meaning got twisted into just meaning the good fairies, while a different name was created for the wicked fairies: “unseelie”, meaning “misfortunate, unhappy, cursed”. What is even more fascinating is that originally the term “seelie” was used alongside the word “wights”. “Seelie wights” – a word with an unclear meaning, but which was sometimes spelled “wichts”, leading to deformations as… “witch”. “Seelie witches”. The closeness of “Seelie” with “wights” and “witches” led in fact some scholars to wonder if the term “seelie” was actually used to designate fairies, or if it rather was used to designate a different type of supernatural being, different from fairies.

- - - - - - - -

Today, the Seelie and Unseelie Court is such a widespread and popular division you find it everywhere in fictional works talking about fairies. In modern “fairy fiction”, these two courts were most notably popularized by two book series:

# The Dresden Files: In the worldbuilding of this snarky urban fantasy series (bordering on the cosmic horror), the fairies are divided into two nations each dominated by a different Court, the Seelie Court ruling over the summer season, and the Unseelie Court ruling over the winter season. Each Court is ruled by a triumvir of fairy queens who embody the “Maiden-Mother-Crone” trinity: a Lady, a Queen and a Mother. Titania is the queen of the “Summer Court”, while Mab is the queen of the “Winter Court”. The Dresden Files notably challenges the idea that the Seelie and Unseelie Court are based on morality: while it is the stereotype common in this world, in truth the Unseelie fairies are not “evil”, they are cold, ruthless, calculating beings of ice, death and darkness. Meanwhile the Seelie fairies are beings of life, light and warmth, yes, but they can be as chaotic and destructive as hot jungles or thunderstorms, and they are not fairies of “goodness”. “The Dresden Files” is notorious for bringing the whole idea of “Seelie/Unseelie=Winter/Summer” which wasn’t something before its release…

There was a concept of the fairy courts being associated with cold and heat before The Dresden Files though: it was the elf-courts in “The Discworld” series by Terry Pratchett (which was a main source of inspiration for The Dresden Files). In Pratchett’s world, the elves of the Discworld (a cross between a parody of the Tolkienesque elves and the “fair folk” of British legends played for full horror) are divided between a court centered around a Queen, who lives in perpetual frozen wastelands of endless winter, and a second one centered around a King, instead hiding in a very hot, very moist, warmth and humid underground realm of vapor and sweat.

# Another big influence on modern perception of the Unseelie and Seelie Court was “The Shadowhunter Chronicles”, where the fairies are also divided in two nations each ruled by one of these courts. No seasonal theme here – rather the Seelie Court is focused on appearing as beautiful, helpful and benevolent as possible, while still being deceptive and manipulatives, while the Unseelie Court is openly and proudly cruel, violent and monstrous. The Seelie Court is ruled by a Queen, while the Unseelie Court is under the domination of a King.

Interestingly, the same way “The Dresden Files” was inspired by “Discworld”, it seems the concept of “The Shadowhunter Chronicles” of the two courts being divided between beautiful subjects of a fairy queen and the monstrous subjects of a fairy king was inspired by an older work of the 80s: “Faerie Tale” by Raymond E. Feist, a horror novel based on fairy folklore. In it, we end up learning that somehow after the events described by William Shakespeare in his “Midsummer Night’s Dream” play, Titania and Oberon (or at least the beings Shakespeare described by this name) ended up splitting their fairyland into two distinct part, separated by a dusk-plunged, haunted, no-man’s land called the “Shadow Lands”. On one side is the Bright Lands, a fairyland of endless day where the sweet and kind Queen rules over pleasant, charming and joyful fae, who are benevolent and helpful towards humans, but still dangerous to live with due to their alien ways of thinking, strange customs and hazardous magical powers. On the other side, the King lives in the Dark Land, a realm of endless night where he rules over monstrous, grotesque, hateful and murderous fae who only wish to invade the human world and destroy mankind.

[thisisnotthenerd]

alright here we go again. for this episode of thisisnotthenerd's d20 stats, we're talking seasons. specifically how to categorize them because not all d20 seasons are run the same way. here goes:

season concepts

this list is not intended to be perfect, it's either official description or how i can best describe them in a few words:

Fantasy High Freshman Year: John Hughes/DND

Escape from the Bloodkeep: The Villains Side of Lord of the Rings

The Unsleeping City: DND/NYC

Tiny Heist: Ocean's 11/Borrowers

A Crown of Candy: Game of Thrones/Candyland

Pirates of Leviathan: Pirate City/Insurance Fraud

Fantasy High Sophomore Year: John Hughes/DND with a Haunted Forest

The Unsleeping City Chapter II: DND/NYC in Quarantine

Mice & Murder: Wind in the Willows/Sherlock Holmes

Misfits & Magic: What if Americans went to Hogwarts?

The Seven: John Hughes/DND but WOMEN

Shriek Week: Cryptid Dating Sim

A Starstruck Odyssey: Retrofuturistic Space Opera with Buffoons

Coffin Run: Dracula's Followers save Dracula

A Court of Fey & Flowers: Regency/Fairies

Neverafter: Horror/Fairytales

The Ravening War: Game of Thrones/Candyland + Wartime Espionage

Dungeons & Drag Queens: DND meets Drag Queens

Mentopolis: Noir/Inside Out/Retrofuturistic

Burrow's End: Watership Down/DND

if you read through, you'll notice some repetitions--several are in the same d20 created universe. those are:

those are helpful for understanding the tone/genre chart & the shifts therein, which i borrowed from the wiki:

now there are some other classifications i would add--thankfully i have my spreadsheet to do just that:

and that's all i have to say for this time. check out the spreadsheet for a better look at the charts.

EDIT (10/21/23): adding a few more charts for perusal and because i think length/vibe is a fun way to sort these seasons:

sorted by length

the first chart is sorting by length; we have:

short and sweet (4 episode seasons):

misfits & magic

shriek week

dungeons & drag queens

on the salami scale* (6 episode seasons):

Escape from the Bloodkeep

Tiny Heist

Pirates of Leviathan

Coffin Run

The Ravening War

Mentopolis

10/10 would watch again (10 episode seasons)

mice & murder

the seven

a court of fey and flowers

burrow's end

in it for the long haul (17-20 episode seasons/intrepid heroes seasons)

fantasy high

the unsleeping city

a crown of candy

fantasy high sophomore year

the unsleeping city chapter ii

a starstruck odyssey

neverafter

the other chart sorts the seasons by how i would adapt them. sometimes this is based on content. sometimes it's based on gm style. sometimes, it's just the vibe the season gives off as a whole. without further ado:

adaptation styles

feature film (live action):

escape from the bloodkeep

misfits & magic

dungeons & drag queens

these seasons are short enough to fit in a single feature film and not quite long enough for a series. the source material just feels more live action to me, especially because there are other seasons that just feel more animated. keep in mind there will be a practical effect focus. just imagine the balloon elf. cartoon logic, live action movie.

feature film (animated):

tiny heist

pirates of leviathan

mice & murder

mentopolis

burrow's end

a bunch of these are the little guy seasons. you can't tell me you wouldn't want a heist movie with characters voiced by the mcelroys, jess ross, and lily du. pol is a spinoff movie of the fantasy high series.

tv series (live action):

the unsleeping city

the unsleeping city (chapter 2)

a starstruck odyssey

a court of fey and flowers

these are long enough to be series with some depth. tuc is on here because it feels like a superhero series. they're teaming up to save new york, but also really finding the humanity in each other. the funny reason is because finding someone to play ricky matsui is hilarious. also i want to see a kugrash puppet.

aso is on here because it's space opera and watch the gunner channel be bozos in live action? hilarious. i've seen some animatics that are incredible though, so this season could go either way.

acofaf is here because i'd want to see the costume department go ham. bridgerton but fairies? guess what. diverse actors, tons of practical effects, a little raunchy, a little heartbreak, what more could you want.

tv series (animated):

fantasy high

fantasy high sophomore year

the seven (miniseries)

a crown of candy

the ravening war (miniseries)

neverafter

as stated earlier fantasy high is a running animated series with two current spinoffs: one movie (pol) and one miniseries (t7). combination high school slice of life with action/adventure.

acoc is a game of thrones style series--animated to keep the comedy, with trw functioning as a hotd style prequel series. the calorum seasons could easily read live action though, just like aso could be animated.

neverafter is animated, but the style changes throughout the season. maybe they start live action and become animated when they wake up in the new timeline. no change in world physics, no acknowledgement, just a seamless switch. ooh maybe they shift to traditional animation when they're in the lines between.

video games:

shriek week

coffin run

these come down to gm style and also system. shriek week is already a cryptid dating sim. coffin run is crunchy, a little bit horror with a lot of adventuring options to explore.

anyway, i hope you enjoy. check out the spreadsheet if you'd like.

*this is in reference to the adventuring academy episode the new mr. peanut, wherein lou wilson creates a snack rating system for brennan lee mulligan based on a scale of 1-5 almonds. exceeding the 1-5, i.e. reaching 6, means you go to the salami scale.

[the-unseelie-court-official]

What is Unseelie Court if you don't mind? I've only seen it used it one context and I'm not sure if it's correct.

[magicveiled]

The Fae Courts

The fairy realm in Morgan’s canon is merely one section of the vast and ever evolving plane of existence parallel to our own, known as The Otherworld. Particularly, there are two sides to the fairy realm that are divided by a never ending barricade of magic and war. The two sides at war are called the Seelie Court, and the Unseelie Court. Now you may have heard of these terms before when discussing the fae or “fairy magic/k”, that’s because originally these specific classifications of fairies originate from one of the many ways that Irish, English, Scottish and Welsh folklore have been categorized throughout history. 

The Unseelie Court in Morgan’s canon are the malevolent fairies or fae-race; they are chaotic, and merciless, sometimes they can be just simply mischievous or downright evil, but most importantly they are totally unbound by specific ruler or specific hierarchy. Like all fairies, members of the Unseelie Court come in various shapes, sizes, colors, and spiritual forms. Sometimes they can glamour themselves to look just as human as ourselves, other times they can transfigure themselves into the form of one’s greatest fear, depending on their rank in the court and magic capabilities.

Now, the Seelie Court in Morgan’s canon are not just the benevolent fairies or the “good” fairies, they are also the indifferent and neutral ones as well who have either no business or interest in meddling with human affairs or the other side of The Otherworld’s veil. The Seelie Court is at constant war with the Unseelie Court and have been for as long as The Otherworld has been in existence. To this day, nobody knows why the two sides have been at each other’s throats day in and day out, the general consensus is that the Unseele Court’s desire is to push the Seelie Court back so far into their own section of the fae realm, that eventually the Unseele Court will be able to break through The Otherworld’s already thinning veil and eternal wreak havoc on humanity. Very similar to Norse mythology’s concept of Ragnorock; the ending to end all endings. 

Not only are the Seelie Court different from the Unseelie Court in the way that they choose to exist and use their magic, but also, the Seelie Court is known to be governed by a select group of individuals from the fae-race that were once actually living on Earth, but were inevitably flushed out once the human race began to take control of their realm. This group of upper level fae individuals in Irish folklore is known as the Tuath Dé, loosely translated in English to the  “tribe of the gods”, later the Tuatha Dé Danann or "the folk of the goddess Danu”. 

It has been said that the Tuath Dé are made up of a specific race of nonbinary fae or god-like peoples, most of their names being long forgotten by the masses as the Abrahamic religions swiftly displaced the old ways of the various Germanic pagan religions. What is known, however, is that while the  Tuath Dé were present on Earth for the time that they were, ancient records indicate there had been a line of ruling and government similar to the concept of monarchy as we know it as today. What was known as Ireland then was ruled over by various Kings ( with no indication that Queens were allowed to govern ) up until the human revolt took place, and the Tuath Dé were banished back to where they originated from on the other side of The Otherworld’s veil. 

[lancrewizzard]

Saw your thing about the seelie/unseelie courts as we understand them today being a pretty recent idea, and that's got me really curious; do you have any sources on that I could check out?

With great pleasure! And with the disclaimer that this was from half an afternoon's casual searching, I'm just some guy with an interest in British folklore.

They're not even close to academic sources, but these two blog posts give a good run down, when taken with a pinch of salt here and there. 1 2 They also have enough sources mentioned to be a good jumping off point for doing your own research.

As purely descriptive words, "seelie" and "unseelie" have been around yonks. Folk songs are too fluid to be concrete evidence, but Alison Gross is a certified Old Folksong, and I've personally come across enough versions in enough collections of ballads to say that "seelie court" and "fairy court" are fully interchangeable in that context, which lines up with seelie wights/good neighbours as basically euphemistic ways to refer to fairies.

"Unseelie" as "unhallowed" or "hateful" and such goes back at least as far, but Scotland, Social and Domestic (printed 1869, should link to page 234 if I've done this right) is the earliest text I've found that explicitly refers to the seelie vs unseelie courts as we understand them today.

This is my own hypothesis, but reading a bit further up with the author's account of Thomas the Rymer, it seems very much like he fell into the old trap of trying to tie several different stories and superstitions into one coherent narrative. Tumblr's done the same with Greek mythology, so it wouldn't at all surprise me if the Victorian love for classification and neat answers did similar damage to Scottish folklore, caring more for a neat answer than the messy living changing nature of real folk tales.

[enchantedfairies0]

Unveiling the Mystical World of Fairies in Folklore

Fairies have long been part of our collective imagination, symbolizing mystery, magic, and the unknown. Found in numerous cultures and mythologies, these supernatural beings come in various forms and exhibit distinct characteristics. They can be kind and helpful or mischievous and malevolent, often depending on how they are treated by humans. In this article, we’ll explore the diverse types of fairies across different folklore traditions, uncovering the roles they play and the stories that have kept them alive in the hearts and minds of people for generations.

The Origins of Fairies in Folklore

Fairies are often associated with ancient pagan beliefs, where nature was considered to be inhabited by spirits that governed the land, air, water, and forests. These early concepts of nature spirits evolved into the fairies we know today. The word "fairy" itself is believed to come from the Old French term faerie, which referred to enchantment or the state of being enchanted.

In various traditions, fairies are depicted as supernatural creatures that exist in a parallel realm, closely tied to the human world yet distinct from it. In Celtic mythology, for instance, fairies were thought to inhabit the Otherworld, a mystical place that was invisible to humans but could be accessed through specific portals, like ancient mounds or fairy rings. In Norse mythology, elves (Alfar) and other similar beings share traits with fairies, existing in realms parallel to ours, with powers beyond human understanding.

Types of Fairies: Seelie and Unseelie Courts

One of the most well-known classifications of fairies comes from Scottish folklore, where they are divided into two courts: the Seelie Court and the Unseelie Court. This classification creates a moral duality, much like the distinction between good and evil.

The Seelie Court

Fairies of the Seelie Court are generally seen as benevolent and helpful, though they still expect to be treated with respect. While they are capable of mischief, they rarely cause harm unless provoked. Seelie fairies are often depicted as guardians of nature, ensuring the balance of the ecosystem and offering assistance to those in need.

One of the most popular fairies from the Seelie Court is the Brownie, a domestic fairy that helps with household chores. Brownies live in human homes and perform tasks such as cleaning and mending things while the inhabitants are asleep. However, they are easily offended and may leave if they feel unappreciated or disrespected.

Another fairy linked to the Seelie Court is the Pixie, a mischievous but generally harmless creature found in Cornish and Devon folklore. Pixies are known for leading travelers astray, though they rarely cause true harm, and they are often depicted as fun-loving, energetic beings with a deep connection to nature.

The Unseelie Court

In contrast, the Unseelie Court represents the darker side of fairy folklore. These fairies are generally malevolent and take pleasure in causing harm to humans. They are associated with night, winter, and danger, often bringing misfortune to those who cross their path.

A prominent member of the Unseelie Court is the Redcap, a dangerous fairy known for its bloodthirsty nature. Redcaps live in abandoned castles or ruins, and according to legend, they dye their caps with the blood of their victims. Unlike the playful Pixie, the Redcap represents a far more threatening side of fairy lore.

The Boggart is another example of an Unseelie fairy. Boggarts are malicious creatures that live in homes and cause chaos for the families that reside there. They are known for stealing food, hiding personal belongings, and creating general disorder. Unlike their Seelie counterparts, Boggarts are not easily placated, and once they invade a home, they are notoriously difficult to get rid of.

Elemental Fairies: Beings of Nature

Fairies are often closely associated with the natural world, and many traditions classify them according to the four elements: earth, air, fire, and water. Elemental fairies are believed to be responsible for controlling their respective elements, and their influence can be seen in natural phenomena.

Earth Fairies

Earth fairies are typically linked to forests, fields, and mountains. These beings are often depicted as protectors of nature, ensuring the health and fertility of the land. The Dryads of Greek mythology are a prime example of earth fairies. Dryads are tree nymphs who inhabit and protect trees, particularly oaks. They are gentle and shy but can be vengeful if their trees are harmed.

Another earth fairy is the Leprechaun from Irish folklore. Although Leprechauns are more often associated with hidden treasure, they are also tied to the earth and rural landscapes. They are skilled in crafting and shoemaking and are known for their trickster nature, often outsmarting those who try to capture them for their gold.

Air Fairies

Air fairies are ethereal and often associated with the wind, weather, and freedom. Sylphs are the most well-known air fairies, originating from Western alchemical tradition. Sylphs are invisible creatures that govern the air and are believed to control the weather. They are often depicted as graceful and elusive, rarely seen by human eyes but felt through the changing winds.

Another example of an air fairy is Ariel from Shakespeare’s The Tempest. Ariel is portrayed as a spirit of the air, capable of controlling the elements and flying freely through the skies.

Fire Fairies

Fairies associated with fire are often seen as both creators and destroyers, symbolizing transformation and passion. One of the most famous fire fairies is the Salamander, which appears in medieval alchemical texts. While salamanders are often thought of as lizards, in folklore they are elemental creatures that thrive in fire, controlling its power.

These fire fairies can be dangerous, often associated with wildfires and destruction, but they can also serve as guides, leading travelers through the dark with their fiery light.

Water Fairies

Water fairies are tied to lakes, rivers, and oceans. They are often depicted as beautiful but dangerous, luring humans into the water with their charm. The Naiads and Nymphs of Greek mythology are prime examples of water fairies. Naiads live in freshwater streams and rivers, while Nymphs inhabit various natural bodies of water. Though generally benevolent, they can be vengeful if their habitats are threatened.

Selkies, from Scottish and Irish folklore, are water fairies that can transform between seal and human forms. They are known for their tragic love stories, where a Selkie is often forced to stay on land after a human steals their seal skin, preventing them from returning to the sea.

Household Fairies: Spirits of the Home

In addition to fairies connected to the natural elements, many traditions also speak of fairies that live inside homes and farmsteads. These household fairies are often small and elusive, sometimes helping with chores, while other times causing mischief.

The Hobgoblin is a household fairy known for playing tricks on the inhabitants of the home. While generally good-natured, Hobgoblins can be mischievous, moving objects, hiding things, or creating disturbances to amuse themselves.

In Scandinavian folklore, the Tomte (or Nisse) is a small fairy that looks after farms and homes. Tomtes are known for their protective nature, especially during the winter months, and they bring good fortune to the families they guard. However, if a Tomte feels neglected or disrespected, they can become vengeful, causing mischief or even harm.

Fairies Beyond Europe

Fairies are not limited to European folklore. Across the world, many cultures have their own versions of fairy-like beings. In Japan, the Yōkai are supernatural entities that resemble fairies in their ability to influence the natural world. Like fairies, Yōkai can be both helpful and harmful, depending on how they are treated.

Native American folklore also features spirit beings similar to fairies. The Nunnehi of Cherokee tradition are benevolent spirits who protect humans, especially those in danger. They are known for their ability to become invisible and their deep connection to the natural world.

Fairies occupy a special place in folklore, representing the mystical connection between humanity and the natural world. Whether they are helpful household spirits, elemental guardians, or mischievous tricksters, fairies reflect the fears, hopes, and values of the cultures that created them. From the Seelie and Unseelie Courts of Scottish tradition to the elemental fairies that govern earth, air, fire, and water, these magical beings continue to enchant us, offering a glimpse into a world just beyond our reach.

[theshiftingfairy]

Hogwarts shifting script

I’m aware there is plenty of cat hair on the photos. My cat loves to rub her face on it 🐱

I decided to finally share a little of my Hogwarts Dr.

Hogwarts Mystery

- Hogwarts mystery is a mobile game in the Harry Potter universe that takes place before Harry attends Hogwarts, in the generation of Nymphadora Tonks and Charlie Weasley.

- I am from that generation but i am shifting to after Hogwarts. By the time of the triwizard Tournament. I am not the MC of Hogwarts mystery, i scripted my fav oc to be the MC. Her name is Meryl Ivory, she was in Ravenclaw and is now an Archeologist.

-My younger sister happens to have the same age gap with me as Charlie and Ron, so i scripted they are friends. I am not scripting my siblings hogwarts house, to see where they end up naturally.

World building

There is a few things that don’t sit right with me in the Harry Potter universe that i decided to change. I also added to the magical world just for the fun of it.

Basically merged the Harry Potter universe with the spiderwick chronicles fairy world, and with the courts from the cruel prince universe (it is from the same author than spiderwick chronicles, but the world building is slightly different in the cruel prince) Most magical creatures are the feys version of spiderwick chronicles and thoses who were created specifically for Harry Potter stays the same.

This means House Elves are not a thing in my Drs, instead we have brownies, which is the same thing minus the slavery (Don’t even know why it’s there in the first place). And brownies makes your life hell if you disrespect them lol.

I’m not really sure how it is going to play out in chamber of secrets, or with winky, but i don’t think it would change the plot that much. As much as i love Dobby, if he isn’t in the story, Harry still go to Hogwarts and still kill the basilisk, and for winky, she didn’t even make it into the movies since I assume it’s just going to play out more like the movie.

Few things about me

- I am a Wandmaker. I just finished my apprenticeship in France and am now back in England.

- my mom is half fey, half witch and my dad is a muggle who works in the science field, wich means I have the best of the three world.

- according to my dreams , Andre Egwu is my best friend. Which I would never have thought if I didn’t dream it, before that I didn’t pay much attention to this character and now I love him 🥰

- I was in hufflepuff at Hogwarts

- because I am way too obsessed with faeries, i scripted myself to be part-fey. In the fairy world, because they rely on humans for reproduction, part fey is considered fully fey, but humans like their classification. Basically a full fey with no relation to any wizard family have no access to the wizards school system, while a fey with a wizard parent do.

[lonelimbless]

In my view there’s a variety of groups fairies and fairy courts can fall under.

Nymphs: They’re like the head fairies of nature and overall leaders. They’re the most humanoid by appearance

Beast fairies: Fairies with humanoid and animal traits like Ly of fall under this group. Have a lot of varying appearances

Ludivs: they’re the type of small fairies most people think of and are the most common fairies you see flying around

Bugs: These are where Greenbottle and other bug based fey creatures fall under

These are all headcanons cause I love wordbuilding and coming up classifications for fantasy species.

I can really see that and I must say I do enjoy your headcanons :>

[mugasofer]

John Walsh is discussed a bit in The Witch-Cult in Western Europe; not in enough detail to explain his fairy classification scheme, but enough is quoted for me to suspect that the original source doesn't actually contain any more detail.

Wait, the Internet Archive actually has a scan of the original primary source... and University of Michigan has a transcription which I suspect is OCR but is more legible IMO.

Yeah, CRTL+F has only one usage of "green", the one in the screenshot above. I don't think John Walsh ever really explained his faerie court system :(

Actually, it's pretty short, I just read the whole thing. Kind of a grizzly read TBH. It's... really obviously an interrogation transcript, even though it's very sanitized. Dude was just a village doctor. I really hope he survived.

Came across this on Wikipedia, and the cite is a physical book that seems like too much work to track down and might not actually add anything, but this is just the most shit worldbuilding I've ever seen, really amateur stuff.

[smikdrawsjunk]

titties posted:

Smik, you included me in your last thread so you don't need to do a fairy for me although I'm curious as to what the titties faerie would look like lol. You know, like as a joke lol I just wanted to thank you for making cool threads, i can't even make cool posts

Aw thanks!

The Titty Fairy, while not very endowed herself is responsible for the delivery of titties. She'll either use her pump or if she's in a bad mood she might use the boob-boom -- this is because the Titty Fairy views big boobs as a curse instead of a blessing: they're high maintenance, they can make fitting difficult, then there's the bras and boobsweat.

It did make her classification difficult for the fairy courts. She's altering people with malicious intent, but the actual results could be considered beneficial depending on circumstances, and some people would seriously want her to 'punish' them. Eventually they slotted her under the Third Court which was fine by her, she had her own thing she liked to do anyway.

[softlytowardthesun]

Curious: what are your favorite type of fairy stories listed in the Aarne-Thompson enciclopedia classification?

First off, it's nice to meet you and thank you for asking! Secondly, I want to preface this: I'm not a student or a scholar of folklore as a genre, and my knowledge of ATU is limited to what I've managed to find online over the years. More often than not, it's either something I've found on JStor in college, something in a Maria Tatar book, or this website.

Still, I love seeing these stories and all their variations across times and places. Without further ado:

306: The Worn-Out Dancing Shoes: I love the mystery element of this story, and I'm forever intrigued by all the variations of the other world the women travel to, whether it's the palace of Indra, the court of Satan, or something else entirely. Many versions attribute their actions to some curse that must be broken to achieve a heterosexual happy ending, but it's in the in-between that this story really sings to me. And a not-quite-variant of it, "Kate Crackernuts", may just be my favorite fairy tale of all time; how often is the ugly (or at least, "less bonny") stepsister the hero of her own story?

310: The Maiden in the Tower: I'm a sucker for a magical chase, and Rapunzel's relatives absolutely provide. My favorites include "Snow-White-Fire-Red", "The Canary Prince", and "Louliyya, Daughter of Morgan".

311: Magic Flight: Stories of magical escapes from dire situations, like "Sweetheart Roland", "The White Dove", "The Fox Sister", and "The Tail of the Princess Elephant".

407: The Flower Girl: Plants who become women or vice versa, often coupled with an escape from an abusive romance. I love these stories purely for the folkloric weirdness factor: "A Riddling Tale" (shout-out to Erstwhile for introducing me to this one), "The Gold-Spinners", "The Girl in the Bay Tree", and "Pretty Maid Ibronka".

451: Brothers as Birds: This one's purely on my love for the Grimms' "Six Swans" and "Seven Ravens". I love a resilient heroine who draws her strength from her family. I admittedly haven't read many others, but these two mean so much to me they get a place here entirely on the strength of these two.

510B: All-Kinds-Of-Fur: The story of a woman's escape from her incestuous father who then gets a Cinderella ending. I admire the heroine's courage in face of an all too real type of monster. Grimms' is a favorite, as is "Florinda" (which could also qualify as 514), "Princess in a Leather Burqa", "The She-Bear", and "Nya-Nya Bulembu".

514: The Shift of Sex: I first came across this story when I stumbled on Psyche Z. Ready's terrific thesis some years ago and I haven't been able to get it out of my mind since. All of these variations from all over the world -- I find it cathartic to know that we've been asking these questions about gender and sexuality forever, and a happy ending is an imaginative possibility.

709: Fairest of Them All: This I owe squarely to Maria Tatar's anthology from a few years ago. Unfortunately, this also means that there are several I can't find online, including "Kohava the Wonder Child" (a rare Jewish heroine in a genre infamous for how it absorbs anti-Semitism) and "King Peacock" (one of the few African American fairy tales I know, also included in Tatar's collaboration with Henry Louis Gates). I love "Princess Aubergine", "Little Toute-Belle", and especially "Gold-Tree and Silver-Tree" - my little bi self was elated to stumble across a princess who lives happily ever after with her kind and gentle limbo husband and her cunning and resourceful wife.

Even as a hobbyist, I love folklore and fairy tales. I love these little glimpses into other cultures, and I love the way these story structures act as magnets for so many nuances of people's lives across history. Still, I hope this answers your question, gives a glimpse into my experience with fairy tales as a genre, or (at the very least) gives you some new and interesting stories to read!

[cindrelle]

name:  briet roschen  (  ブリエット・ロスシェン  ). nicknames:  bri  (  ブリ  ). true name:  thesan  (  セサン  ). age:  18. sex:  amab. gender:  genderfluid.  he / she / they. orientation:�� pan. home:  valley of thorns. school:  royal sword academy. dorm:  briarwood. class:  third year. best subject:  animal languages.

hair color:  pale purple. hair style:  loose. eye color:  magenta. height:  variable.  though they usually choose a form around 5′9″ faceclaim:  m.erlin.  mostly standard m.erlin,  sometimes prototype. voiceclaim:  michael sinterniklaas  (  en  ),  jpn seiyuu tba.

inspirations:  a.urora from s.leeping b.eauty,  fae  (  multiple interpretations,  including m.aleficent & folklore as well as twst’s own take on fae  ),  p.eter pan.

overview:

briet is a human reborn in the body of one of the fae,  following the belief that those who pass on with unfinished business in life returning as a faerie.  in her human life,  she lived until the age of sixteen  ---  before passing away in her sleep from an unknown illness.  or maybe a curse,  even.  with no one to break the spell,  their life flickers out.

in the classification of fae,  he can be considered to be of one of the seelie court.  he doesn’t go out of his way to cause trouble for humans,  but he can still be dangerous if push comes to shove or he is offended.  compared to many of their kind,  though,  briet tends to be more lackadaisical.  their pride is certainly there,  fae can so easily be offended,  but time spent among humans has tempered it into something more forgiving.

she is very much fascinated by the natural world and magic and often will try to share in the whimsy of it all with others.  the illusion of a prideful fae is usually dispelled the moment she opens her mouth,  however,  her disconnect from humans and their emotions and adoration for them as a scientist would a test subject quickly reminds people of the divide between her and them.

trivia:

briet has made a promise with ambrose:  they will never use the name of anyone within the school to harm them.  this is a very poorly worded promise,  though,  for if they had any desire to do so,  they could use one’s name with ill intent the moment they leave school grounds.  this also doesn’t excuse other means of harm,  cursed food.  harmless pranks that used one’s true name still would be allowed as well,  in addition to the granting of boons.  ambrose really should’ve hit all the points.

wearing one’s clothes inside out,  or carrying st. john’s wort or a four - leaf clover is a good way to ward off any potential charms or curses.

his hair is perpetually tangled in  “  fairy - locks  ”

fae can be burned by iron so it is very much not present at rsa if it can be avoided

she loves baked goods,  and will be offended if handed stale items,  especially bread,  which can be used to ward some of her brethren.

briet can take any form they wish.  even a dragon.

they will never share their true name with anyone  ---  unless that person should win their heart.

[moonandris]

Honestly, I've seen the word fae spelt faery, faerie, fairy, fae, fey, fay, and it goes on and on. I know that specifically that most popular classifications of fae is the Irish depiction of the Seelie and Unseelie Courts, and then to a lesser extend the Seelie fae are divided into the Spring & Summer Courts and the Unseelie are divided into the Autumn and Winter Courts.

Fae lore is soooo interesting to me and I've spent a lot of hours in my free time just researching the real life lore behind them. :)

CALLING ALL HIGH FANTASY WRITERS, I WOULD LIKE YOUR OPINION PLEASE! In your story, do you have elves, faeries, both, or neither?

I've been really struggling with going back and forth between having fae in my story verses having just elves, verses having fae and elves, etc. and I'm sooooo unsure what I should do! I love the idea of the fae and the 'feel' they have, which is more mystical and magical than how elves come across. I also really love the Seelie and Unseelie dichotomy and that really only applies to fae. Having Seelie and Unseelie elves doesn't really work to me...

On the other hand, I also reaaaallly love elves and they have a lot in common with fae. Elves come across as more mortal than fae do and their 'feel' is somewhat less magic and mysterious than fae but that's also a charming aspect.

I know that I can literally make fae and elves however I want them to be in my world but I'm really curious how other high fantasy writers are utilizing these fictional races and what they're doing with them.

[feathercall]

AU PROFILE: Xayah (Elderwood)

True Name: ??

Given Name: Xayah, xayah-sidhe

Titles: Lady Xayah of the Barrows, Lady Xayah of the Hunt, Daughter of Air and Darkness, Xayah of the Gloaming Court, Princess Xayah of the Black Horses

Age: ??

Classification: Sylvan. Winter (Winter/Autumn) Court, Unseelie. Fairy nobility, by blood.

Basic Info: Xayah has little interest in the goings-on outside of her domain, of witches and witch-hunters, and the encroaching darkness in the woods. Leave the wars to the soldiers, and let the nobles sit back and drink their wines and enjoy their soirees. This has been her policy since her father took the Wild Hunt back out into the woods, chasing the old Wolf, and other creatures of dark. The princess keeps out of such business, and her own hunts are more for sport than for anything else. Known to deal occasionally with mortal individuals who come seeking the good will of the fae, making bargains with winter fae is always a gamble—while a few do exist who can claim that they came away richer than they went in, rumor has it that most of the souls who she’s dealt with have paid off their debts by living out the remainder of their lives in the fae stables. Though, her court’s horses are of famed quality... Additionally, it’s long been said that the temperaments of the Faerie royalty can affect the weather in their domains; this is where the Winter Court gets its name, as the land there has been ruled by cold and snow for as long as anyone can remember. That is, until recently, where the old forest has finally begun to thaw and new greens have started sprouting. Xayah, of course, claims she’s simply been in a good mood lately.