#Fairytale and Folktale Inspired

[kaynanarie]

Eyes of Gold (Part 4)

(A WukongxReader story inspired by Beauty and the Beast and Lutung Kasarung.) (First) (Prev) (Next)

            Two days later, the rash was finally gone. The baths and medicine had cleansed it away, leaving healthy, itchless skin in its wake. You couldn’t be more relieved. Shihou endured your smothering hugs and endless thanks with grace and a smidge of pride.

            With you now poison ivy free, the monkey was ready to show you the way up the mountain. You didn’t realize how literally he meant it until you were three hours into a grueling hike.

            “How much further?” you whined, climbing up yet another set of stone steps. Shihou snickered where he sat waiting for you to catch up.

            “Just a few more. Would you had preferred scaling the side of the mountain?”

            You huffed, pausing to catch your breath. “No, but I wasn’t expecting a maze of staircases and secret tunnels. Did Monkey King find all these?”

            “Actually, he made most of them,” Shihou said, leading the way down a side passage. “Fruit and Flower Mountain has seen plenty of battles and having a backdoor comes in handy.”

            Glowing moss along the walls offered some light but you still kept close to Shihou. With so many twists and turns, getting lost would be all too easy. After another flight of stairs and a few more tight tunnels, Shihou finally stopped by an unassuming patch of stone.

            “Here we are!”

            You glanced at the rocky surface then back at him. “Where exactly is here?”

            With a smirk, Shihou pushed the wall aside. Instead of stone like you first assumed, a cloth was brushed away, revealing a brightly lit hallway on the other side. You stepped out into the light, letting your eyes adjust while also enjoying the fresh air. Behind you, a woven tapestry fell back into place, covering the secret doorway without a trace.

            Once you could properly see, you found yourself in a corridor, one side dotted with large windows streaming in sunlight. Lining the opposite wall were statues, murals, and hanging weapons interspaced between ornate doors. Despite being carved from the mountain itself, the stone palace was just as regal and intricate as any human-made castle.

            “Your room is over here, peach friend! Come take a look!” Shihou called from down the hall. He was nearly hopping from excitement by the time you joined him in front of the open door. “What do you think?”

            The room was huge, a carefully carved cavern with artistic details etched into the very walls. Rosewood furniture adorned the space, expertly crafted and polished to a mirror shine. The wardrobe tucked in the corner revealed silk robes similar to your first gifted set. A bowl of fruit and bouquet of colorful flowers decorated a small side table. You were most excited to see a real bed, plush with a downy mattress and covered in embroidered blankets and furs. The whole space glowed by the light of the bay window leading out to an overlooking balcony.

            Of all the things you expected from a mountain palace full of demons, such royal accommodations were beyond your wildest dreams. “It’s beautiful! Look at this view!”

            Being so high up was breathtaking and dizzying all at once. The whole of Fruit and Flower Mountain stretched before you all the way down to the edge of the forest. Cascading green hills plummeted alongside the thunderous waterfall. Above the canopy of trees, white clouds drifted through the endless blue sky. You were so enthralled by the sight, Shihou had to tug you back by your robes before you could tumble over the balcony railing.

            “Careful! Wouldn’t want an accident before the King announces your arrival.”

            “He’s announcing my arrival?” you repeated in disbelief.

            “Of course!” Shihou chirped, leading you back into the room. With your weary body weighted down by the sudden news, the bed looked more inviting than ever. You all but flopped down on the mattress, sighing into the cloud-like comfort. The weight on the blankets shifted as Shihou hopped up to sit next to you. “The King wants to formally welcome you while also making the others aware of your presence. Best way to avoid any mishaps.”

            “If you say so,” you hummed, glancing over to him. “Any other surprises I should know?”

            “Well actually, there was something I’ve been meaning to tell you…” Shihou suddenly looked quite contrite, avoiding your gaze as he scratched at the back of his head. “But you have to promise not to panic or get angry. Okay?”

            You raised a brow. “Is it that bad?”

            “Probably not,” he said though his frown wasn’t very convincing. “Just…try not to hate me?”

            Before you could respond, Shihou jumped off the bed and scurried to the center of the room. You sat up to watch him, suddenly worried by whatever was about to happen. He took a slow breath, so focused even his tail was still. In a quick nod, a cloud of smoke enveloped him with a startling pop. You jumped to your feet, coughing and waving the haze from your face. As fast as it appeared, the cloud settled, leaving you blinking as a shrouded figure came into view.

            “Ta-dah!”

            Where Shihou had once been was now stood a demon. He was slightly taller than you, wearing simple pants and robes tied with a belt. The overall appearance was nearly human but his fur, tail, and bare feet were monkey-like. A nervous smile played across his simian face while he waited for your reaction. Only the familiar golden gaze kept full blown panic at bay.

            “Shihou?” you asked after a tense moment.

            “Yep! It’s me! Just a little taller now. And with clothes,” he smirked but there was still a cautious edge to it. “You’re not going to freak out, right?”

            Your arms flailed in bewilderment, grasping for understanding. “First you can talk, and now this? I thought you were just a regular monkey!” Your hands covered your face, mind whirling with every awkward conversation you had with him. “How? Why?”

            Shihou looked a bit sheepish at your confusion. “I didn’t mean to lie. When I found you, I disguised myself so I wouldn’t scare you and I wasn’t sure how to bring it up afterwards. Now that you’re here, you’ll be seeing a lot more demons around so I might as well be the first.”

            A deafening silence filled the room as you processed the monkey’s confession. The longer you stared, the more nervous he became, tail twitching as he fidgeted in place.

            “Are you mad at me, peach friend?” he asked, gold eyes wide and pleading. Despite the larger demon form, he managed to look quite pitiful in his remorse.

            You sighed and shook your head. “You’re lucky you’re still cute.”

            “Aww,” he cooed, his smile sharpening to a cheeky grin. “You think I’m cute?”

            His teasing turned to full blown laughter at your unamused glare. “Don’t push it. I’m already embarrassed I carried you around for three days.”

            “How about I carry you next time to make it up to you?” Shihou chuckled at your mortified blush. “Anyways, now that you know, it’ll be easier to show you around. For now, you should rest while I let the King know you’ve arrived. Will you be okay while I’m gone?”

            The idea of being left by yourself in an unfamiliar demon palace was unnerving but you nodded anyways. Shihou sensed your hesitation and placed his now much larger hand on your shoulder. “I won’t be long. Once everyone’s gathered, I’ll come get you for the announcement.”

            With a final wave and a quick wink, Shihou whisked out of the room. Alone with your reeling thoughts, you laid back on the bed to study the carved ceiling. Soon enough, you felt the fatigue of the day pull you into dreams filled with underground labyrinths, demons in disguise, and the looming presence of the infamous mountain king.

[thewickwheat]

I am fingers crossing that by increasing the opacity on the top I can avoid flagging but lets find out

together

BUT ANYWAY

there was another FFXIV Gala event on twitter that I participated in and since the theme was Fairytales and I am someone who looks for any excuse to bring up my favorite folktale, I had to pay homage to Prince Lindworm by depicting Zenos as the titular Lindworm and Earley as the shepherd’s daughter. 

You can read the folktale here!

There’s also a process video available for Patrons! (which I try to do with all my illustration pieces)

Design notes below the cut for interested folks

The goal with Zenos' outfit was to communicate shedding skin, with each layer getting more raw. So its a matte wool suit layered with shiny red satin and the underlayer being soft velvet (originally the suit had iridescent sequins sewn near the cuffs to imply scales but I couldn’t find a way to depict it nicely, though I think it would look stellar IRL) 

Earley's was heavily inspired by Queera Wang's gender neutral wedding designs, which also worked well with the layered "fine shifts" in the story. Other elements minorly borrowed from folk designs (it was a stronger influence earlier in the design but a lot of it got discarded) and I’m very sad her boots could not be shown off in the final composition 

there's also...another theme in the designs but I think you can figure that out~

[welcometowriteblr]

WTW PRESENTS OUR 43RD EVENT!

We live...again! WelcomeToWriteblr invites you to attend our fabulous Feast of Fright. Counting down the days until Halloween night, we have chosen themes and prompts designed to help you flesh out your WIP, from the characters and relationships to the setting and magic system. The calendar can be completed in any order and you’re free to do as much or as little as you want. This event will run for the LAST TWO WEEKS OF OCTOBER.  Unlike our previous two preptober events, this one will be a slightly shorter variant where we encourage posts to be as long or as in-depth as you'd like!

HOW TO PARTICIPATE

Tag your posts as #WTWEVENT and #WTWCOMMUNITY

Format your posts like this: WTW FEAST OF FRIGHT - DAY #: THEME

Wait for your post to be added to the queue. 

NSFW content will not be posted to the blog. 

OPTIONAL: Join our discord server if you would like to ensure your post makes it onto the blog! Tumblr’s tagging system can be unreliable and we want to make sure everyone’s creations are shared! Please note, you must be 15 OR OLDER to enter our server! 

PROMPT LIST

Jack o' Lantern - Write a 250-500 word character study for your protagonist

Scarecrow - Introduce the main relationship(s) in your WIP

Ghoul - Talk about recurring themes & tropes in your WIP

Full Moon - Discuss your biggest sources of inspiration

Poison Apple - Write about a fairytale, folktale, or urban legend in your WIP

Tombstone - Your protagonist has to give something up: What do they choose?

Haunted Hayride - Describe the main setting

Cauldron - Write about an important historical event in your WIP

Poltergeist - Discuss the main conflict of your WIP

Cursed Relic - Plan the climax

Grim Reaper - Brainstorm the Point of no return

Cobwebs - Write a bad synopsis of your WIP

Pumpkin Pie - How did you choose which POV(s) to write?

Headless Horseman - Write an in-universe letter from your protagonist

Banshee - Plan out your magic system: Tell us how it works!

Feast of Fright - Discuss your top five favorite scenes

CREEP IT REAL, JOIN OUR SERVER HERE! (discord.gg/earlgrey)

[bekkathyst]

The new jewelry collection is finally dropping this weekend! From today until Saturday, I will be posting an English retelling of one of the Austrian folktales that inspired this collection (over on my Patreon).

I’ve decided to name this collection Märchenwald, which means Fairytale Forest. Many pieces in this collection have real plants that came from my garden or local forests, which I think makes the name even more fitting!

I can’t wait to show you even more previews. I’m really happy with how this collection is turning out.

[adarkrainbow]

There is a lot of "Christmas fairytales", be them Christmas folktales (the animals talking at midnight, the moving menhirs) or literary pieces (Andersen's Little Match-Girl, Dickens' Christmas Carol, The Nutcracker...). However there are not many other fairytales associated with holidays... But there is one fairytale linked to the Epiphany. An Epiphany fairytale, written for the Night of the Kings by Jean Lorrain (one of the most famous authors of the decadent turn-of-the-century in France): "Neigefleur" (Snowflower), a literary fairy tale inspired by Snow-White and mixing the worlds of the Grimm and d'Aulnoy fairytales as an evil queen tries to ritualistically murder her lovely step-daughter during one night of wonders and horrors.

Here are some of the illustrations made for when the story was released in an edition of the "Gil Blas" magazine:

[valy-gc]

Game Idea - now a novel

Well... an idea that will stay an idea because I don't have any programmation skills nor the money to pay some developpers, but I like it and got lots of ideas for it so let's just share it. If you want to make a OC from it, then have fun.

It's a dating sim, mix between "Twisted Wonderland" and "Obey me!"

This is mostly ideas thrown like this in a messy way. But you can now read my test for the novel version here:

Chapter 1 Chapter 2 Chapter 3 Chapter 4 Chapter 5 Chapter 6 Chapter 7 Chapter 8 Chapter 9

Or on my Tapas, Ao3 or wattpad

everything under the cut

As a new student at Fablewood Academy, you are mysteriously invited after stumbling upon an ancient storybook. Among peers who resonate with legendary characters from fables and folklore, you stand apart—unable to resonate with any historical figure. Instead, you uncover a profound connection to the mysterious Writers.

Navigating the competitive dorm dynamics and building relationships with students and teachers, you begin to unravel the secrets of Scriptoria, the world of stories. With your unique bond to the Writers, you hold the key to saving it from an ancient force threatening to rewrite history itself.

~~~~

World

"Scriptoria" A magical world shaped by the memories and writings of the legendary Writers, who recorded the lives and deeds of its inhabitants.

~~~~

The Writers :

The authors of fairytales we  knows, they are called the "Writers" (always with a cap W) not because they have wrote the  tales (since it's supposed to be all real stories in this world) but because they were keeper of memories, noting everything that was  happening in the world, which permitted the actual characters to knows  all about the stories.

~~~~

Locations

Austreim: Inspired by European fairytales (Germany, France, Scandinavia). A realm of picturesque forests, cobblestone towns, and grand castles. Home to tales like "Cinderella" and "Little Red Riding Hood."

Beasthaven: A country inspired by La Fontaine’s animal fables. Predominantly inhabited by beastmen. Features different biomes in different part of the land, from lush forests and rolling meadows to savannah or thundra. The country is known for their lively markets in every biome.

Seafoam Dominion: An underwater kingdom of mermen and aquatic fae. Draws inspiration from Andersen's stories. Has shimmering underwater cities and shores dotted with mythical artifacts.

Ebony Sands: Inspired by African folktales such as "The Man Who Never Lied." A sun-drenched land of deserts, savannahs, river deltas and ancient temples.

Celestial Plains: Based on East Asian folktales, blending Chinese, korean, Japanese stories among others. Features rolling hills of bamboo, cherry blossoms, and mystical shrines guarded by spirits.

Myrcadawn: A borderland filled with ancient ruins, magical storms, and creatures from forgotten tales. Mostly inhabited by faes.

~~~~

"Fablewood Academy" An all-boy institution dedicated to preserving the legacy of the writers and their stories. Located at the heart of Scriptoria, blending all cultural styles. Where the Writers’ legacies are studied and the world's future is shaped.

~~~~

The Resonance Ceremony

When a student enters the school, they undergo a Resonance Ceremony, a deeply symbolic ritual that determines their connection to an Historical Character (a character from fairytales and myths).

Ceremony Description:

The Setting: The ceremony takes place in a grand, mystical chamber called the Hall of Echoes, a circular room lined with glowing murals of countless legendary figures. In the center, on the ground like a pond, is the Ethereal Mirror, which shimmers like water and reflects not the student’s image, but fragments of their potential resonance.

The Ritual:

The student steps up to the mirror, guided by a faculty member.

The mirror reacts to their essence, glowing brighter as it identifies the Historical Character whose moral compass and essence most closely align with the student’s.

The chosen figure materializes as a spectral image above the mirror, accompanied by a brief vision of their story, morals, and defining characteristics.

The student receives an Artefact Sigil, a magical mark on their hand, symbolizing their connection. The sigil also acts as a key to their dormitory.

Outcomes:

The character determines the student’s dorm assignment. Dorms represent shared principles or traits rather than region or story type, which creates unique diversity within each house.

The student begins to develop their Legacy Arte, influenced by their resonance.

~~~~

Dorm Names & Founders

Astraquartz (Inspired by Cinderella, Charles Perrault): Represents perseverance, humility, and transformation.

Scarletfang (Inspired by Little Red Riding Hood, Grimm Brothers): Represents courage and cunning.

Everswell (Inspired by The Little Mermaid, Hans Christian Andersen): Represents sacrifice and curiosity.

Mousetrail (Inspired by The Lion and the Mouse, La Fontaine): Represents cleverness and loyalty.

Obsidianspire (Inspired by Mamad in "The Man Who Never Lied", unknown Writer (African tale)): Represents honesty and wisdom.

Verdance (Inspired by "The Tale of the Bamboo Cutter", Minamoto no Shitagō): Represents grace and adaptability.

~~~~

Resonance Dynamics

Living By Their Resonance: Students are expected to uphold the values and morals of their Resonance Character. Deviating too far from these principles leads to a Resonance Crisis, where the bond becomes unstable.

Resonance Crises: In a crisis, a student’s personality and abilities are warped by the unresolved conflict. They might embody the antithesisof their Historical Character, becoming a distorted, corrupted version of their story’s ideals.

Example: A student resonating with The Happy Prince may hoard wealth selfishly, spiraling into greed, causing their Legacy Arte to malfunction.

Resolution: To restore balance, the student must confront their choices and find a way to realign with their character’s core principles, often with the help of peers or the protagonist.

The Nature of Resonance

Resonance is not a rigid set of rules that dictate a person’s every thought or action. Instead, it represents a core essence—a reflection of the Resonance Character’s archetype, personality, and values. When a student resonates with a character, it means they share a similar foundation, but they are free to interpret and act on that foundation in their own unique way.

Core Principles of Resonance

Guiding Influence, Not Control: The Resonance doesn't force someone to behave exactly like their historical counterpart. Instead, it provides a general blueprint of traits, preferences, and tendencies that align with the character’s essence.

Example: Coach Garrick’s Resonance with the Big Bad Wolf doesn’t mean he must terrorize pigs—it means he shares the wolf’s gruff, bold, and predatory nature. How he channels those traits is entirely up to him. For Garrick, they manifest as a tough love coaching style.

Freedom to Choose Actions: While Resonance shapes a student's instincts and inclinations, their choices define their character. They can act in harmony with their Resonance without being confined to it.

Example: Elric, resonating with Cinderella's Stepmother, naturally enjoys luxury and attention. However, he can choose to respect others while enjoying these things, rather than mistreating them like the original stepmother did. If he strays too far—say, by shunning luxury entirely—it might destabilize his Resonance, but small acts of kindness wouldn’t harm it.

Resonance Crisis Is About Extremes: A Resonance Crisis occurs when a student goes against their core nature to an extreme degree, causing an inner conflict. This doesn’t happen because of minor deviations but because of a deep misalignment.

Example: If Elric started wearing rags and actively rejecting his love of luxury, his Resonance would destabilize. But respecting servants or treating them kindly, while still enjoying the finer things, would maintain balance.

Explaining Resonance Through Examples

Here are clear, narrative-driven examples to help clarify how Resonance works without feeling restrictive:

Garrick “Grizz” Wolfin (Big Bad Wolf): Garrick’s Resonance gives him traits like gruffness, strength, and an intimidating aura. He embodies the archetype of the wolf, but how he uses those traits is his choice. He could easily become a bully, but instead, he channels his gruff demeanor into being a demanding yet caring PE teacher. His choices define him, not the wolf.

Elric Briarthorne (Cinderella’s Stepmother): Elric shares the stepmother’s love for luxury, beauty, and a touch of laziness. However, he is not bound to repeat her cruelty. Elric can enjoy being pampered and commanding attention without mistreating others. If he rejects his natural affinity for elegance entirely, he risks a Resonance Crisis, but respecting a servant while maintaining his love for luxury keeps him in balance.

~~~~

Legacy Arte

Each Legacy Arte is tied to the unique essence of the resonated Historical Character. These are not static powers—they grow and evolve as the student’s connection deepens. It can be an offensive or defensive ability, a practical one for everyday or even a constant unseen ability (enhancing strenght, magic powers or anything else)

For example:

A student resonating with Princess Kaguya might have an Arte called Moonlit Grace, allowing them to summon moonlight to shield themselves and others. As they grow, the Arte might evolve into Celestial Radiance, granting healing and offense.

~~~~

Artefact Sigil

The Artefact Sigil serves as both a resonance stabilizer and a channel for magic, directly tied to the student's connection with their Resonance Character. It appears on the student's hand during the Resonance Ceremony.

Key Features of the Artefact Sigil

Appearance:

A glowing, dynamic symbol or glyph that reflects the essence of the Resonance Character. Its design evolves as the bond deepens, becoming more intricate and vibrant.

Example:

Astraquartz: A delicate glass slipper.

Scarletfang: A bold wolf’s paw print, with thorny vines wrapping around it.

Everswell: A flowing wave, centered with a small pearl-like dot.

Mousetrail: A small mouse.

Obsidianspire: A tall spire with rays of light radiating from its top.

Verdance: A crescent moon embraced by bamboo leaves.

Functionality:

Magic Channeling: The Sigil channels the student’s magic, focusing and amplifying their spells. It glows or pulses during use, with colors and intensity varying based on the magic type.

Legacy Arte Activation: The Artefact Sigil is the key to unlocking and evolving Legacy Arte abilities. As the student grows, the Sigil adapts to better support these powers.

Resonance Stabilization: The Sigil detects and moderates Resonance Crises. If a student strays too far from their Resonance Character’s core ideals, the Sigil dims or cracks slightly, serving as a warning. It also emits calming energy to help realign the connection.

Personal Connection: The Sigil is an inseparable part of the student, growing and changing with them. This deep connection makes magic feel more instinctive and intimate, as it’s literally a part of their body.

~~~~~~~~

Lore Tie-In

Origins: The Artefact Sigil was created by the Writers, using fragments of their own memories as the foundation. This ensures that every Sigil is a direct link to the archives of Scriptoria.

The Resonance Bond: The Sigil embodies the merging of the student’s essence with their Resonance Character. Its visible state reflects the health of this bond, making it both a tool and a representation of their inner journey.

~~~~

Scriptos Currency System

Coins (for smaller transactions):

1 Scripto:Copper coin

5 Scriptos: Bronze coin

10 Scriptos:Silver coin

50 Scriptos:Gold coin

Bills (for larger transactions):

100 Scriptos

200 Scriptos

500 Scriptos

1,000 Scriptos

10,000 Scriptos

Design Details

Coins:

Each coin feature an emblem of a quill or an open book to symbolize creativity and storytelling.

The coins shimmer faintly or show shifting patterns when exposed to light.

Bills:

The bills have holographic text or illustrations that animate briefly (e.g., a bird flying off a quill or ink drops forming a picture).

They feature famous Scriptoria figures, mostly the Writers, with each having different possible figures. -the 100 could feature Pu Songling or D. O. Fagunwa, -200 feature Don Juan Manuel, Alexander Pushkin or Giovanni Francesco Straparola -500 feature Charles Perrault, the brother Grimm or La Fontaine, -1000 feature Al-Jahiz, Hans Christian Andersen or Valmiki, -10 000 feature Joseph Jacobs or Alexander Afanasyev …)

The bills and coins are waterproof. Coin will not get rusty if used by merpeoples.

Practical Conversion

1 Scripto = 0.01 USD

100 Scriptos = 1 USD

The School Farm:

Purpose:

Self-Sufficiency: Provides fresh produce and farm-to-table ingredients for the cafeteria.

Community Spirit: Encourages students to bond and learn teamwork through shared responsibilities.

Practical Skills: Offers hands-on experience in agriculture, animal care, and commerce.

Earning Opportunities: Students can earn pocket money by working on the farm, in the cafeteria, or at the shop.

Animals on the Farm:

Poultry: Chickens/hens/roosdters, ducks, geese, turkeys, quails, guinea fowl, pheasants, maybe pigeons and even a few peacocks

Dairy Animals: A couple of cattle, buffaloes, goats, sheep and camels for milk production (and maybe cheese or yogurt). Other less common milk animals are yaks, horses, reindeers and donkeys. (the farm would include the stables for horse riding club... and horse riding club could be about riding other type of animals)

Companion Animals: Perhaps a farm dog or cat that the students adore.

Fields and Crops:

Vegetables and Herbs: A variety of seasonal vegetables and herbs used in the cafeteria.

Orchard: A small orchard with fruit trees like apples, pears, or peaches.

Flowers: Some fields could grow flowers for decorative purposes or events.

Farm Activities:

Animal Care: Feeding, cleaning stalls, gathering eggs, milking cows, etc.

Crop Maintenance: Planting, weeding, harvesting, and learning about sustainable farming practices.

Event Preparation: Preparing products like jams, baked goods, or decorations for events.

Market Days: Selling fresh produce and handmade goods at school fairs or town markets.

How It Benefits Students:

Pocket Money Opportunities:

Students can earn wages working on the farm, at the cafeteria, or in the school store. They can also work in exchange of products instead of money.

Wages could be small, but enough for personal expenses or extracurricular activities.

Skill Development:

Responsibility: Managing shifts and caring for animals.

Practical Knowledge: Learning about agriculture, cooking, and business.

Teamwork: Collaborating with peers to keep things running smoothly.

Cultural Exchange:

Students from different homelands can share farming techniques or recipes.

Characters with unique Resonances could find ways to incorporate their powers into the farm (e.g., enhancing crop growth, making food preparation more efficient, etc.).

Integration with the School’s Themes:

Character Development:

Working on the farm could help shy or isolated characters open up and feel a sense of purpose (e.g., someone like Cygnus could bond with animals).

Ambitious or overconfident students could learn humility through manual labor.

Narrative Opportunities:

Events like harvest festivals, cooking competitions, or fundraisers could revolve around farm activities.

Farm responsibilities could create moments for character interaction, conflict, or bonding.

The farm could become a place of solace or reflection for students facing challenges.

Magic and Resonance Use:

Some students might creatively use their Resonances on the farm

Potential Challenges (For Story Conflict):

Mishaps:

Animals escaping, crop failures, or pranks leading to chaos on the farm.

Competition:

Students might compete for the highest sales during events, leading to friendly rivalries.

Misuse of Magic:

A student using magic irresponsibly on the farm could result in humorous or serious consequences.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Maps and infos about the world:

Seafoam Dominion's infos are not especially true, because the site don't let me place a kingdom on water, so it's on a super small island with some burgs in the other states.

Also I didn't changed the number of people by burg, so this don#t count either.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

The magical sport of Scriptoria:

Color Clash

Teams and Gameplay

Number of Teams: While six teams (one for each dorm) could add unique dynamics, it might be chaotic if everyone plays simultaneously. A good compromise might be:

Rotating matches with two teams battling at a time during recurring events.

A six-team free-for-all for larger, more chaotic rare events or tournaments.

Team Members: Teams could consist of 5(six teams) to 7(two teams) players. This allows for strategic play while keeping the matches manageable.

Playing Area: The sport could take place in a dedicated arena designed to resemble various terrains and obstacles, such as forests, caves, open fields, and ruins. Alternatively, for special events, the entire campus could be used for a massive "battle royale" version.

Rules and Objectives

Objective: "Paint" members of opposing teams with arrows (colored magical powder). Each successful hit earns points for the team.

Scoring System: Players are assigned point values based on their skill level. Before each match or tournament, players are ranked based on their performance in trainings and skill tests. This ensures fairness and adds an extra layer of strategy as teams must protect high-value players.

1 Point - Squire: Absolute beginners, bad or first-time players. Could be a player that is really good at shooting his arrow but bad at dodging the opponent’s.

2-10 Points - Adept : Average players, ranked incrementally based on skill and experience, with tiers such as Adept II, Adept V, Adept VIII ...

50 Points - Elite: Highly skilled players with notable achievements during training. Usually the captain if there is no Champion.

100 Points - Champion: The best player, often the team’s captain or standout star. Each team can only have one Champion.

It is mandatory for each team to have at least one Elite or Champion, but both at the same time are not always necessary, as not all team always have a Champion.

Points are calculated at the end of the game, and the team with the highest total wins.

Rank Titles :

Instead of saying, “That’s a 100-point player,” you’d say, “They’re the team’s Champion.”

The ranking titles could also play into the strategy:

Teams could call out, “Focus on their Elite!” or “The Champion is exposed!”

Elimination (Optional): Players could be "eliminated" when hit a certain number of times (10). This adds an extra layer of strategy, as players would have to decide whether to go on the offensive or protect high-value teammates.

Strategic Importance

Protecting High-Value Players: Teams will need to strategize to keep their Elite and Champions safe while using lower-point players to distract or disrupt the opposing team.

Not focusing too much : The lower rank players could think they are less important, but if they are eliminated, or permit the opponent to mark lots of points by touching them multiple time, they could makes the team loose even if the high-rank are safe.

Risk vs. Reward: Opposing teams may focus on targeting high-value players, leaving them vulnerable to counters.

Dynamic Rankings

Rankings could shift between matches or seasons based on performance. For example:

A player in the Adept X tier who performs exceptionally well could move up to Elite in the next game. The number of points earned in a match can play a huge part in the promotion.

Conversely, underperforming high-tier players might drop to a lower point value. (not after a one-time fail, of course, only after repeated defeats)

A player reaching the Champion rank will automatically take the captain place. But a Elite don’t necessarely become captain, except if there is no other Elite (and no Champion either)

A player reaching the Champion rank while there is already a Champion in the team will have to either decide to leave the team, change team, or the other player will have to make this choice, as no team should have more than one Champion.

A Champion or Elite disguised as a lower rank will lead to the immediate disqualification of the team. (in the situation of the others players are perfectly award of his real skill. If a Champion or Elite pretend to be lower to his own team, his teamate not knowing, then only the guilty player will be disqualified and forbbiden to join another team.)

Scoring System (Extra Points)

Player Elimination Bonus:

Every time a player is eliminated (hit 10 times), the opponent who lands the 10th shot earns 50 extra points.

If multiple players contribute to the 10 hits, only the final player earns the elimination bonus.

Chain Elimination Bonus:

For every consecutive opponent eliminated by the same player, the elimination bonus increases:

1st elimination: +50 points.

2nd elimination: +75 points.

3rd elimination: +100 points.

4th elimination and beyond: +150 points per elimination.

Entire Team Elimination Bonus:

If one player manages to eliminate an entire team (all members), they earn an extraordinary bonus of 500 points, in addition to the chain bonuses.

Last Player Standing Bonus:

If a team has only one player left, and this player wins the match (survives or eliminates all opponents), they earn an extra 300 points for their victory.

If the last-standing player of a team is eliminated, the player who lands the final hit earns 200 extra points, regardless of who dealt the previous hits.

Why extra points ?

Encourages Team Play: Collaboration is still critical for securing eliminations.

Rewards Exceptional Skill: Outstanding feats like eliminating entire teams or clutching a win alone are significantly rewarded.

High-Stakes Showdowns: The final moments of a game become more tense, as eliminating or saving the last player has huge scoring implications.

Magic and Special Elements

Magic Use: Magic could be allowed with restrictions, such as:

Spells must be harmless and non-lethal (e.g., creating distractions, shields, or minor obstacles).

Magic usage is tied to a temporary power-up system.

Power-Up Spheres : These floating objects can grant random temporary bonuses, such as:

Allowing harmless magic use for a limited time (depend of the power-up).

Shielding the player from one arrow.

Granting a "stealth" mode (invisibility for 10 seconds).

Doubling points for a short period.

Speed boost for a short period.

Freezes all opponents or arrows in place for 5 seconds

Emits a shockwave that knocks back opponents or clears arrows in the immediate vicinity.

Restores one "life". (Allow to be touched once more before getting eliminated)

Grants the ability to jump to high platforms or hover for 10 seconds

Allows instant teleportation to another part of the map, chosen randomly or directed by the player. (depend on the power-up)

Creates an illusory double of the player that moves randomly

Allows the player to place a one-time trap on the map that immobilizes or slows opponents who step into it.

Nullifies the effect of traps or hazards for a limited time

Temporarily causes all incoming arrows to change direction and return to the sender.

Randomizes everyone's positions on the map by teleportation, creating confusion and disrupting strategies.

Permit a one-shoot elimination (very rare)

Equipment and Mechanics

Bow and Arrow:

The bow transforms into a bracelet when not in use, making it easy to carry.

The arrows are tipped with harmless "pompoms" filled with colored magical powder.

Type of game :

Standard Matches: Two teams face off in a timed match.

Battle Royale: Six teams compete simultaneously until one team remains or the time runs out.

Infection Mode : One team starts as "infected," trying to tag players on the opposing team. This mode don’t use bows and arrow but gloves soaked in the magical powder. Tagged players become infected and switch sides. The game ends when all players are infected or time runs out.

Mystic Duel : Head-to-head duel with only two players of two different team or even the same team. The arena transforms into a smaller battlefield where they must outshoot each other. Often used when two players on the same team fight for the captain place or the Champion rank.

This sport is a traditional practice for students to sharpen their focus, strategy, and teamwork.

The power-up spheres are said to channel ancient magic from the Writers, rewarding clever players with bonuses.

Each dorm's strategy reflects their core values (e.g., Scarletfang play aggressively, while Verdance focus on defense and teamwork).

Additions or Clarifications

Audience Engagement

Magical displays show player stats, power-up activations, or instant replays during matches to entertain onlookers.

Spectator areas with enchantments allowing a "first-person view" of any player could immerse viewers.

Tiebreakers

In case of a tied score, there is a "sudden-death" shootout where each team selects one player of the same level of a Mystic Duel.

Seasonal Variants

Seasonal power-ups or obstacles (e.g., icy surfaces in winter, blooming vines in spring) to keep the sport fresh and tie it to the fantasy world’s calendar.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Clubs :

Litterature Club : Cygnus Downwood, Mahdi Alclaris

Horse Riding Club : Minwoo Kinsei

Swordmanship Club : Lupin Vardred, Jin Haruto

Gardening Club : Tsuki Laito, Porcus Huffsbrick

Music & Dance Club : Lyricis Farahdein,

Drama Club : Imperius Wovengale, Éponine D’Orveil, Elric Briarthorne

Exploration Club : Marinus Tideshade, Gael Lumespring

Art Club : Faylen Charmwright, Rune Spindlewick

Cooking Club : Ambrosine Forrant

Chess Club : Archer Verdain, Khamari Duneshade

Science Club : Noel D'Orveil, Hatterick Marchhare

Photography Club : Ren Chisora

Cheering : Chester Marroway, Tressari Manarah

Color Clash Club : Thatcher Squeakefield, Lazlo Quickstride

Basket Club : /

Baseball Club : Imran Frosham

Racing Club : Caspian Willorun

Gymnastic Club : Kadar Serpenscale

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Classes and Seats :

First Years

1-A 05 – Tsuki Laito 1-A 09 – Rune Spindlewick 1-A ?? – MC 1-B 02 – Hatterick Marchhare 1-B 04 – Lyricis Farahdein 1-B 07 – Imperius Wovengale 1-B 08 – Elric Briarthorne 1-C 10 – Archer Verdain 1-D 02 – Kadar Serpenscale 2-D 07 – Ren Chisora 1-E 01 – Imran Frosham

Second Years

2-A 06 – Marinus Tideshade 2-A 08 – Minwoo Kinsei 2-B 06 – Tressari Manarah 2-B 08 – Cygnus Downwood 2-B 11 – Noel D'Orveil 2-C 03 – Porcus Huffsbrick 2-C 05 – Thatcher Squeakefield 2-D 03 – Mahdi Alclaris 2-D 17 – Éponine D’Orveil 2-E 04 – Caspian Willorun

Third Years

3-A 02 – Faylen Charmwright 3-A 16 – Khamari Duneshade 3-B 03 – Lupin Vardred 3-B 04 – Ambrosine Forrant 3-D 07 – Chester Marroway 3-D 15 – Jin Haruto 3-E 05 – Lazlo Quickstride

Fourth Years

4-A / 4-B / 4-C 02 – Gael Lumespring 4-D 08 – Kael Thornweald 4-E /

Fifth Years

Intership

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Mechanics of a Resonance Crisis

Stages of the Crisis:

Warning Phase: The Artefact Sigil dims or cracks subtly, signaling instability. The mage exhibits heightened emotional extremes or behaviors contrary to their Resonance Character.

Example: A Cinderella Resonance becoming tyrannical and dismissive, echoing the stepmother’s cruelty.

Threshold Event: A traumatic or critical moment causes the bond to fully destabilize. The mage’s Artefact Sigil shatters, triggering the Crisis.

Transformation:

The mage transforms into an Echoed Antithesis of their Resonance Character—a distorted, exaggerated version of their worst traits.

Example: A Little Red Riding Hood Resonance becomes a wolf-like beast, embodying predation and fear instead of courage.

The environment around them twists to reflect their turmoil—spreading corruption, illusions, or chaotic phenomena tied to the Resonance.

Manifestation:

The Fractured Legacy takes a physical or semi-physical form—either merging with the student or manifesting as external entities they must face.

Example: The transformed mage might summon spectral versions of antagonists, or their minions, from their Resonance Character’s tale, or their surroundings could morph into a warped, nightmarish version of their story.

Consequences

Prolonged Crisis states can cause lasting damage to the mage—mental, physical, or magical.

If unresolved, the bond with their Resonance Character could sever entirely, leaving them vulnerable to permanent loss of their Arte and magical abilities.

Resolving a Resonance Crisis

Core Resolution:

The mage must confront the internal conflict driving their instability.

Example: A Happy Prince Resonance consumed by greed might need to realize that hoarding wealth doesn’t bring joy or fulfill their true essence.

This confrontation often requires the help of others, especially the protagonist, who serves as a mediator or guide.

Reformation:

The Artefact Sigil repairs itself, often evolving into a stronger form, symbolizing the student’s personal growth.

The Legacy Arte might gain new abilities tied to the lessons learned during the Crisis.

Fight:

Other mage could fight the mage in crisis. Defeating them would stop the crisis.

Designing the Fractured Legacy

Visuals:

The Crisis should have a haunting yet poetic visual style that reflects the student’s Resonance Character.

Example: A Cinderella Resonance would look more like a deformed version of the stepmother or the stepsisters, surrounded by jagged shards of broken glass and spectral pumpkin monsters.

Themes:

Each Crisis explores the darker side of the Resonance Character’s traits.

Example: A Little Mermaid Resonance, consumed by jealousy, might suffocate others in waves of magical water, symbolizing their suppressed longing for acceptance.

[elrielffs]

This is just a loose theorizing by me about Gwyn's role in the future books and how this ties to Azriel and an Elriel story.

It's not meant to be anti-Gwyn. I actually really like Gwyn as a character but it does incorporate Lightsinger Gwyn and for some, this is anti-rhetoric.

This is just me kicking things around in my noggin' and nothing concrete but just loose attachments.

Under the cut cause it's kinda long.

I was thinking about some of the details we've been given in story and some meta things from SJM's pinterest. I don't really subscribe to the pinterest as end all be all but I do think some things are very interesting on it.

I do think SJM is pulling from various fairytales and myths, particularly Blodeuwedd, Koschei the Deathless and other Russian folktales, and The Little Mermaid. We know SJM takes inspiration from fairy tales.

First we have Blodeuwedd which SJM saved titling Elain. The story of Blodeuwedd is that she was made to be the perfect wife of Lleu Llaw Gyffes but rejects him and falls in love with another, Gronw Pebr.

In the Koschei and the Deathless, we have Ivan Tsarevich who has 3 sisters that marry 3 winged wizards. Ivan saves Marya Morevna, a warrior princess, from Koschei and marries her.

I think the first two speaks for themselves on how they relate to ACOTAR so I won't delve to much into it but you can see how it relates to the story that is playing out.

Last is The Little Mermaid. We all know this story because of Disney and also it's probably one of the more well known fairy tales' but the broad strokes of the ORIGINAL telling is: The Little Mermaid falls in love with the human prince, makes a deal with the Sea Witch for her fins to be turned into legs to be with him on land, the prince falls in love with someone else, and the Mermaid is tasked by the Sea Witch with killing the prince to get her fins back but she can't do it because she loves the prince too much and instead turns into bubbles/foam/becomes an air spirit.

How does this relate to Gwyn?

Gwyn has been described many a time with ocean/water like imagery and has been stated to have nymph heritage. Her eyes are constantly described as the sunlit sea and she even says the quote," I am the rock on which the surf crashes."

We are also told about Lightsingers in the same book that Gwyn is introduced: They are ethereal beings who will lure their prey to them, appearing as friendly faces. Only when their prey were in their arms would their true faces emerge.

This shares many similarities to Sirens: creatures that live in or by the ocean, that lure victims to them with an alluring voice. Sirens have also become synonymous with mermaids, merging into one creature with siren and mermaid being used interchangeably to describe the one being.

Gwyn has show these same characteristics in story. Gwyn is shown to be a singer and have a beautiful voice and to also glow when she sings.

When Nesta hears Gwyn sing she describes it thus:

Drawing any listener in.

Nesta also says this about Gwyn upon first meeting her:

Gwyn also tells Nesta at one point that Nesta wouldn't like the "real" her.

I won't go too in depth to the Lightsinger theory because there are plenty of other posts floating around breaking it down better than me but suffice to say that there is a correlation between Gwyn's voice/singing=some type of power. This easily translates into Lightsinger/mermaid/siren imagery and theory.

Now this next part is just me spit balling and is more fast and loose and how this could tie into an Elriel story:

We don't know too much about Koschei in story except that he's a Death God and older brother to Stryga and the Bone Carver, beings who traveled from another world to Prythian (Daglan/Asteri?) and a powerful wizard that cursed Vassa.

At one point he tells Azriel he has "been preparing for you". What could this mean? Why has he been preparing for Azriel?

Why would Koschei, who is a powerful wizard, bargain with the Acheron's father, a human nobody? Is it because he is Elain's father?

Rhysand speculates that there's a possibility that the priestess have been infiltrated. We saw with Ianthe that not all priestess's harbor good intentions and in ACOWAR that the library can be broken into.

It has been highly speculated that Merrill, a priestess in the Library, is up to something. Is she in line with Koschei?

Who works under Merrill? Gwyn.

We know from HOFAS that the cauldron is corrupted by the Asteri/Daglan, a fact speculated by Azriel himself in the bonus chapter.

Is possible that Koschei as a Daglan/Asteri had a hand in corrupting the cauldron to mix up Elain's mates? Is that how Koschei "prepared" for Azriel?

And what about Gwyn working under Merrill? Gwyn could be manipulated and unknowingly assisting Koschei/Merrill or she could be working for them for some kind of favor--returning her sister Catrin to life?

Also, the fact that Gwyn and Catrin are twins can be used for shenanigan's. What if Gwyn is actually Catrin? (This is purely speculative on my part by the fact that they were made twins rather than just sisters.)

It's also mentioned that Catrin had webbed fingers. I love this little detail and wish Gwyn had them too but is there a reason she doesn't? Could this be to distinguish Catrin and Gwyn at a later date besides hair color?

Could Merrill/Koschei know about Gwyn's Lightsinger heritage and be using her as way to lure Azriel away from Elain?

What is one of the gifts Elain gets Azriel? Ear plugs.

We know it as a gag gift but we also know that Elain has visions--we don't know how fragmented or how fully she receives them but is is possible that she saw something that inspired her to give Azriel the ear plugs?

Is this to upset the balance of the 6 pointed star mentioned in HOFAS?

Could Gwyn, unknowingly or knowingly be working for Koschei to infiltrate the IC via Nesta and the training, lure Azriel away from Elain? Could Gwyn fall in love (this part is not needed, it can be just business on Gwyn's end) with Azriel but realize thru her connections with the Valkyries and training and Azriel that she can't go thru with it?

Let me reiterate, I don't think Gwyn is evil. I think she could be manipulated, coerced, or promised something she can't refuse to help or go along with Koschei/Merrill. She might not even know it's Koschei she is helping or that she is even in fact assisting. She could be manipulated into using her unknown Lightersinger powers.

Gwyn (the Mermaid) is promised/manipulated into using her Lightsinger powers by Koschei/Merrill (Sea Witch) to lure Azriel (the prince) away from Elain (the woman the prince loves) but the end she can't go thru with it either because she realizes it's wrong, realizes she's being manipulated or because she can't do that to Azriel.

I know there is more that can be conjected but this is already quite long and I didn't even delve into the Swan Lake and Sleeping Beauty parallels.

I realize this could have been posted before and nothing new but I just wanted to put my thoughts out there and hear some more of my fellow Elriels!

[oolhan]

Everlark: The Classics #6

When the Moon Fell in Love with the Sun by Mejhiren

Published: 2012 Chapters: 15 | Discontinued/Abandoned/Perpetually waiting for an update

Hey, hey! Another entry for my small fic rec series after such a long time. It's been a while so please indulge with fairytale!everlark. Covering my eyes as I write this because I did not do the fic any justice with my amateur mood boarding skills. But bear with me as I gush about my all time favorite everlark fic of all. Okay, so when the moon follows the whimsical tale of victor Peeta Mellark bringing Katniss to his fairytale-like mansion after winning the 74th games. It is heavily inspired by the Norwegian folktale East of the Sun & West of the Moon, a myth on personifying animals and nature. Hear me out! Look at me [proceeds to cup both cheeks in my hands] It sounds incredibly foreign for those not used to reading fanfics but I assure you, this is beyond want. This fic is a need. The world-building of this story brings out the playfulness of Peeta and Katniss, something they were deprived of from canon, especially K. Peeta personified the warmth, hope, innocence, and all things that Katniss needed, especially the cooking. The metaphors of sun!peeta and moon!katniss, of geese and does, the red ribbons, foxes and little prince, the braids, the Appalachian themes, genealogies, even Katniss' obliviousness to Peeta's feelings is hauntingly entertaining--just read it. Although I must say it is quite a long book since it's nearing 400k words in just 14 chapters, I promise you when you're hooked you'll yearn for more.

The vibrancy of its themes is colorful and alive even if the setting is on a cold winter season. Also the writing structure??? God. It's immaculate. It's illegally sublime. The immense joy when I experienced reading this for the first time transformed my insanity. Would 100% sell my soul in exchange for the complete version of this. It's basically a 400k word love poem. That's it.

[kaynanarie]

Eyes of Gold (Part 3)

(A WukongxReader story inspired by Beauty and the Beast and Lutung Kasarung.) (First) (Prev) (Next)

            The rest of the morning was spent scrubbing and drying out your old robes at the riverside. After a quick lunch break, Shihou showed you around the forest, perched on your shoulder the entire time. He pointed out trees ripe with every fruit imaginable, picked more of the purple-flowered jewelweed for your medicine, and gathered soft leaves to use for makeshift bedding.

            It was wild and beautiful and nothing like you expected. Even with the ominous reputation of Fruit and Flower Mountain at the back of your mind, you couldn’t help but feel at peace in such a paradise.

            “If I’ve been invited to the palace, why do I have to wait?” you asked Shihou that evening. While the sun had set, he helped you gather wood and light a small fire near the cave. His knowledge was unexpected but you were no longer surprised by the not-so-ordinary monkey.

            “Staying near the river makes it easier to wash until the poison ivy is gone,” Shihou explained, leaning against you to enjoy your gentle pets through his soft fur. “Plus, the King wanted some time to prepare a proper room for you. You’re an honored guest and he takes his role as royal host very seriously.”

            You were surprised to hear such a courteous reason. “Is it really that big a deal?”

            “He wants to make a good impression.” Shihou glanced up at you, his gilded eyes catching the light of the fire in a reddish glow. “You said you heard stories about Sun Wukong. Is that why you’re so scared of him?”

            “Well…I mean…” I pondered your response carefully. “The elders told us tales about him, mostly out of caution.”

            Shihou tilted his head curiously. “What did they say?”

            “The usual story,” you shrugged. “The Monkey King was a powerful demon that defied heaven and was imprisoned for it. He was sent on a journey to atone and returned to his kingdom once it was through. His spell on the mountain keeps it warm and bountiful year-round.” You glanced at the surrounding forest, green and vibrant even in the dead of winter. “But Monkey King hates humans and kills any that cross his path so the mountain is forbidden.”

            “He doesn’t hate humans,” Shihou argued with a frown. “He just knows how dangerous they can be. The King only wants to protect the mountain and his people.” A quiet melancholy fell over the monkey as he studied the fire. “The last time humans were welcome on the mountain, hunters killed our kind and stole from us. After that, the King banned all humans from his kingdom and forbade any demons from entering the village.”

            The pain and loss in his voice pulled at your heart and filled your eyes with tears. You couldn’t help but scoop him into a comforting hug. “I’m sorry.”

            “Don’t be,” he said, patting your arm in return. “You’re not to blame.” Even after you released him from your sudden embrace, he remained seated in your lap, reluctant to move away.

            “So, I’m still allowed to stay?” you teased, taping Shihou’s nose to lighten his mood. “Even though I’m human?”

            Shihou pouted but grabbed your hand, placing it back on his head for more pets. “You’re an exception. The King sympathizes with your exile and you’ve already shown more kindness than most humans. As long as Sun Wukong allows it, you are welcome on Fruit and Flower Mountain.”

            You only nodded, continuing to brush your fingers through Shihou’s fur. “You speak very highly of your King.”

            “Of course!” Shihou perked up, pride sparkling in his eyes. “He’s the Great Sage Equal to Heaven! He’s strong, handsome, clever, and he’s defeated every demon that ever challenged him.”

            “Sounds humble, too,” you muttered, earning a glare from Shihou. “I mean, he sounds formidable. What other stories do you know about him?”

            He tapped his chin in thought. “There’s a lot of them. Like how he became king by jumping through a waterfall and finding a palace on the other side. Or how he stole his weapon from one of the dragon kings. And then there’s all the adventures he had while on his journey.”

             Shihou launched into different tales of the Monkey King. He was a gifted storyteller, capturing your attention with vivid descriptions and excited gestures. From monks and dragon horses, to pig husbands and river demons, to kingdoms of women and mountains of flame. Every detail painted the journey for you, like he’d seen it with his own eyes.

            As enthralling has his performance was, the night grew late and your eyes grew heavy. You found yourself nodding off more and more, lulled by his soothing voice and your newfound security on the mountain. When you startled awake for the third time, you found Shihou watching you, a cheeky smirk on his face.  

            “I’m sorry,” you yawned, rubbing your bleary eyes.

            Shihou chuckled. “No reason to be sorry. It’s late and there are plenty of stories for another day. You should get some rest.”

            “What about you?”

            “I won’t be far, don’t worry,” he said with a reassuring smile. You nodded, shuffling half asleep to your makeshift bed. “Sleep well.”

            “You too–,” but when you turned back, he had vanished. Only the dying fire remained, crackling as its dim light flickered around the empty clearing. Even though you couldn’t see him, you could still sense his presence lingering in the darkness. With a last searching glance over the shadowy trees, you turned back to the cave.

            It was still gloomy and bleak but the leaves were soft and made the floor more comfortable. As you drifted off to sleep, the fire slowly burned itself to smoldering embers. The only light left was the glowing pair of golden eyes keeping watch into the night.

[pr0serpinaa]

Favorite dreamy Fairytale/Folktale inspired films

Panna a netvor (Beauty and the Beast) (1979)

The Thief of Bagdad (1940)

The Company of Wolves (1984)

Rusalochka (The Little Mermaid) (1976)

A Song of the Forest: Mavka (1983)

The Red Shoes (1948)

Ever After (1998)

Morozko (Jack Frost) (1964)

Labyrinth (1986)

Ashik Kerib (The Lovelorn Minstrel) (1988)

[duckprintspress]

Back Our Patreon to Help Us Pick Our Next Anthology Theme!

Did you know that every single Duck Prints Press supporter on Patreon gets a vote in helping pick our anthology themes?

Well, now you know!

The crowdfunding campaign for our third Queer Fanworks Inspired By… anthology has ended successfully, which means there’s no time like today for us to begin planning our fourth Queer Fanworks Inspired By… collection – but we can’t do it without your help. For the next week, all Patreon supporters will have a chance to vote for our short list of potential themes. Already a Patron? Make sure you make your voice heard by casting your vote! Not a Patron yet? What an awesome time to become one! What are the choices on the short list?

Queer Fanworks Inspired by Fairytales/Folktales

Queer Fanworks Inspired by the works of Edgar Allan Poe

Queer Fanworks Inspired by the works of Oscar Wilde

Queer Fanworks Inspired by Lewis Carroll’s Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland

See one you’ve gotta have? You can help make it happen!

Come one, come all, and help us pick our next work to draw inspiration of and make queer!

[muitamaita]

Here is my submission to DBTR-server's zine, this time we had folklore and fairytales as our inspiration, see the other amazing artists behind the link!

My little comic was inspired by my favorite folklore ghost story, which in Finland is usually called "The Dead Travel Light" or "The Dead Travel", it is a "dead bridegroom carries off their bride"-type folktale, the most famous version is the German Lenore-ballad. In these tales two young people are lovers, and the bridegroom is send away to work or to war, where he suddenly dies. One night he arrives to fetch his bride, but she has no idea he is a walking dead as news of him dying have not reached her. He tries to carry her to his grave, but the bride is saved the last moment.

In the Finnish version we have some special features I wanted to incorporate, such as it is always a cold winter night and the bridegroom arrives on a horse drawn sleigh instead of riding.

I have brought the story to BG3 here, as I found Astarion's story is a perfect fit to it. Bride's part is played by my Tav Eris.

[czargasm]

Chelsey czargasm's Fics of 2024

Stealing this from my beloved @scoops404 because it seems fun and because I easily spent 50+ hours betaing for her this year, so I earned it. Go check out her fic roundup if you're looking for some great DNF to read.

The premise: every fic I wrote in 2024 from my personal least favorite to my personal favorite. I included all pairings, which this year were DNF, ANF, and dip&pip. The fic I co-wrote with @alittledizzy, in sickness and in health, isn't included, but you should go check it out if you want some beautiful Dan and Phil medical hurt/comfort in a tour setting.

Overall stats: 13 fics (including the cowritten one); 186,737 words.

The Glow Squid Hunter - T - 19,260 - This was written for the Fairytales from the SMP collab and is a retelling of the Scottish folktale "The Seal Catcher" with Dream as the titular hunter and George as a glow squid shapeshifter (my first and only "minecraft setting" to date). I really struggled writing this one, which is what puts it at the bottom of my list. This fic taught me that less is more with outlining and that I operate best as a discovery writer, which is incredibly important to know.

Swipe Right - E - 9,848 - A one shot inspired by a tweet. DNF meet on a dating app and get together, but with a few twists along the way. It does what it says on the tin. A fun fic, but ultimately not my favorite.

I Like The Way You Look In My Things - E - 3,926 - Written in one day over two sittings, with a break for an existential crisis in between. Inspired by the bracelet George was wearing on his birthday stream. Basically pwp, but nothing wrong with that.

without consequence - E - 5,563 - A summer bingo fic—this one centered around DNF giving each other a hall pass but ultimately deciding they belong to just each other. There's not much to say about this one except that it was fun to write and gave me the opportunity to revisit the ANF dynamic, which is something I love.

The Waiting Game - E - 10,783 - My own take on the "how DNF finally got together" trope, following the development of their romantic relationship from discord chats through twitch con, Antarctica, Christmas, and finally getting together during a very special week in Jan 2023. The highlight for this really is the bathtub scene, which is so romantic it actually makes my chest hurt.

staring at the sun - E - 2,956 - The summer bingo fics really pushed me outside my normal type of writing, as best shown here. PWP but with a whole mess of stuff added in. My shortest fic of the year, but it accomplishes a lot in just a few words. DNF from the perspective of awesamdude in the cuck chair, complete with edging, mild bondage, and soft-dom Dream.

A Voice in the Dark - E - 18,297 - This is a fic that was more fun in concept than it was in writing. It's ultimately really good fic with a lot of fun tropes snuck in there -- secret identity, falling in love with someone based on their voice, they were roommates.

here kitty, kitty - T - 8,265 words - George makes the wrong witch angry and gets transformed into a cat; cat lover Dream saves the day. This was another summer bingo fic and when I came up with the idea, I thought it would be a crackfic. Instead, it ended up being silly but incredibly sweet and heartfelt and inspired some of my favorite fan art ever.

This Would Never Happen on the Hallmark Channel - E - 18,909 - Probably recency bias, but this one was SO MUCH FUN to write. My last fic of the year too, so if you haven't read it, what are you waiting for? Dream writes Hallmark Channel movies and George is starring in his most recent one. Strangers become friends with benefits become lovers, all while trying to keep things on the downlow so Mr Hallmark doesn't find out. Guys, it's so fun and so good, I promise!!

Holding On For Just Tonight - E (4,207 words) - my first ever phanfic. I almost trashed this so many times because I wasn't confident in writing Dan and Phil's voices, but it ultimately turned out really good and I'm pretty proud of it. Definitely looking forward to exploring this dynamic more in 2025.

Our Own Terrible Way - E - 34,290 - This is probably the most popular fic I ever published and most of my regular readers (not all, but many!) found me through this one. George and Austin start a FWB situation that ultimately ends with George and Dream finally getting together. I loved writing it, I love rereading it, I love talking about it. It made me fall in love with Austin as a character and ANF as a pairing, and I always want to do more with them.

Every Mountain Tells A Story - E - 43,072 - Literally no one should be surprised. This isn't just my favorite fic of the year--it's my favorite thing I've ever written. I got to combine two of my very best hyperfixations into one fic: DNF and high altitude mountaineering disasters. It's not my most popular fic sadly (I think it should be), but the people who read it LOVED IT and they've been very devoted to it since. I still regularly get asks and comments about it, and I never get tired of talking about it.

[theboarsbride]

Faerie Book Recommendations🧚✨📚

So reading Sarah J Maas and her very, very shitty interpretation and (under)utilization of fae lore is inspiring me to create a personal list of books I've read that I feel like have like... ACTUAL faeries and folklore in them (not the normal-looking-hot-folks-with-pointy-ears-and-MAYBE-wings brand of faerie SJM popularized), and are actually worth your time

And if you've any books, stories, comics, etc. that you'd want to add to this list, feel free to add them in the comments, reblogs, tags, or my DMs!!

House of Hollow by Krystal Sutherland

Very eerie fairytale vibes that center on the aftermath of the disappearance, and even more mysterious return, of three sisters when one of them goes missing again almost 10 years later. And also the writing is legit just B E A U T I F U L!!!

Emily Wilde's Encyclopedia of Faeries by Heather Fawcett

This is chock-full of classical faeries and folklore, and almost reads like a textbook about them since this is about a woman, the titular Emily Wilde, traveling to a Scandinavian country to complete her own encyclopedia about the fair-folk. It also features some lowkey cottagecore vibes and an academic rivals-to-lovers romance!

Gilded (Gilded #1) by Marissa Meyer

A retelling of Rumpelstiltskin that reads like its own dark Grimm's fairytale, and it's as eerie and grim as a YA fantasy novel can get. It also centers on themes of telling stories and folktales since the main character, Serilda, is infamous for spinning wild tales - which is what leads to her encounter with the famed, and feared, Earlking (who, as a villain, is so sinister and creepy - and utterly FAE!). Personally, this book wasn't really my cup of tea and I'm unsure if I'll read the sequel, Cursed, however it still has some classic fae vibes that SJM's work lacks, so it deserves a place on this list!

The Changeling by Victor LaValle

I'm using the term 'faerie' very loosely here, as the idea of changelings (and trolls), for me, is more of a narrative device to help us look into grief in fatherhood. But there is still a very strange, vaguely Pans Labyrinth-esque urban fantasy vibe playing in the background throughout!

Slewfoot: A Tale of Bewitchery by Brom

Not necessarily FAERIES but more of mischievous and distrustful woodland folk - and also forest gods. Very heavily steeped in early colonial America era folk horror vibes... if you love media like Robert Eggers' The VVitch then you will ADORE this book! Also Brom's accompanying artwork is so, so beautiful! This is honestly such a perfect fall-time read once Halloween season rolls around.

Legendborn Cycle series by Tracy Deonn

Ok no faeries but... mixes classic Arthurian legends with southern Black beliefs while also telling an epic urban fantasy story centering on themes of grief, trauma, and prejudice. So no fae, but LOTS of great urban fantasy vibes (which I mean... if you're looking for more series to put on your shelf instead of Harry Potter......) Just... Please... just... this series... it's so GOOD!! IDK what else to add that hasn't been said about this series!

Direwood by Catherine Yu

Once again, not necessarily faeries in this book but instead vampires that have a very fae-like quality about them! (as well as blood-hungry butterflies and caterpillars hee-hee) The story as a whole feels like a whimsical fever dream that is STEEPED in tasty Gothic vibes! It sort of has the feeling of being in a late '90s/early '00s Goth music video.

Like Falling Stars by Avalon Roselin (@roselin-books-official)

A story about a girl who's forgotten her past and comes to develop a sweet friendship with a brooding ice faerie prince, and is brimming with so many cozy fantasy vibes!! Also all the fae characters in this novel are so colorful and lively, and they're all very heavily tied to elements and the seasons. Also ALSO!! The main relationship focuses primarily on platonic love as opposed to romantic, and is just as endearing! A perfect cozy winter/fall-time read.

Netvor: A Retelling of Beauty and the Beast by @rosesnwater

Both a completed novel and an in-progress webcomic available to read on Tapas and Webtoons. Again, another story where major themes center on storytelling and fairytales, but also recovering from trauma and grief! There are so, so many classic faerie vibes, and even featuring pinnacle figures from classic fae lore like the Goblin Market, and it manages to feel equal parts nostalgic and unique in its use of faerie lore!

Dandies in Danger podcast by @dandiesindanger

A table-top RPG podcast instead of a novel! It features four queer men that are dragged into a world of fae and horror, all while set against the backdrop of Regency era London. It starts as a VERY eerie fae mystery (featuring figures like Titania and Oberon), but it slowly becomes a dark, horror historical-fantasy, and it's great! Also art by the podcast's creators is so good!

So these are the recs I have to offer for now!! As always, feel free to add more recommendations!!!💛

[adarkrainbow]

Fairytales in French cinema

Pictures of "Azur and Asmar", Michel Ocelot second big animated success after "Kirikou and the Witch". Released in 2006, this movie is not inspired by any precise folktale, though the story could be a One Hundred and One Nights fairytale. Whereas Kirikou was a translation of Western African folklore, this movie is set within the Muslim Maghreb of the Middle-Ages, and just like with Kirikou, Michel Ocelot uses the format of a fairytale to explore serious topics such as physical discriminaton, social injustice or geographical displacement.

[videostarblogs]

12. dark mori kei

dark mori kei is a substyle of mori kei that merges the forest inspired aesthetic of traditional mori kei with a darker, more mysterious edge. often called dark forest girl, this style retains mori keis connection to nature but emphasizes its mythical, shadowy side -- akin to walking through an enchanted forest at twilight, here's a breakdown of dark mori kei

origins and development

evolution from mori kei: dark mori kei emerged as an offshoot of mori kei around the early 2010s, developed by individuals who appreciated the cire aesthetic of more kei but wanted to introduce a "gothic", darker element. It offers a way to explore the darker side of nature, moving away from bright, pastel colors to show off the shadowy side.

influence of folklore and fantasy: the style draws from mythology, fairytales, and myths often portraying a darker character that could represent a witch, forest spirit, or some sort of dark fairy. its aesthetic plays on the mysterious qualities of deep woods, misty paths, and magical creatures

key motifs

Dark color palettes: Unlike traditional Mori Kei's earthy, light tones, dark Mori Kei uses a palette of deep, muted colors like black, charcoal gray, forest green, burgundy, deep plum, and midnight blue. shades of brown, rust, and dark cream may also appear to keep the natural theme but in a more somber way.

Layered shapes: Layering is essential in dark mori kei. The look often involves flowing, asymmetrical layers of dresses, shawls, and oversized sweaters to create a slightly ragged shape. Loose cardigans, cloaks, capes, and lace details add to the forest effect.

nature and mystical textures: materials like lace, velvet, wool, and cotton add a textured, vintage feel to dark mori kei. worn in or distressed fabrics are common, as they give off the impression of a forest wanderer. dark lace, crochet details, and feather or fur trimmings add an extra touch to the outfits.

occult and nature theme accessories: accessories in dark MRI kei often include items inspired by nature and witches---think of dry flowers, feathers, crystals, charms, and bones (fake or real). silver jewelry, layered necklaces, rings with dark stones, and talismans are popular, giving off a forest witch vibe.

dark makeup and hair: makeup in dark mori kei is more pronounced than in mori kei. dark eyeshadows, smudged eyeliner, and berry or plum-colored lip tints enhance the makeup in this style. hair is often left loose and wild, styled in braids, or decorated with hairpieces like flower crowns, vines, or feathers. darker hair colors or tones of auburn, deep green, and black complete the look.

music

dark mori kei is often associated with atmospheric, ethereal music that has a haunting, folk-inspired sound. neofolk, dark folk, and ambient genres resonate well with this aesthetic. artists like Wardruna, Chelsea Wolfe, and Florence + the Machine capture the spirit of the style. Medieval-inspired or witchy folk songs set the right mood for dark more kei as well. here are some artist suggestions

lamp

ichiko aoba

800 cherries

tico moon

HUS

astrud gilberto

joao gilberto

kaede

kali uchis

serani poji

movies

films that embody the magical and mysterious parts of nature fit dark more kei perfectly. Pan Labyrinth by Guillermo del Toro is one amazing example. other fitting films include The Witch, Sleepy Hollow, and The Secret of Roan Insih. here are a few other movies I suggest!

the ancient magus' bride

anohana

fruits basket

honey and clover

is the order a rabbit?

Mary and the Witch's flower

Mushi shi

snow white with the red hair

the dark crystal

mirrormask

books and other media

folktales and dark fantasy: dark mori kei is often linked to literature that explores enchanted forests, ancient magic, and gothic themes. works like The Bear and the Nightingale by Katherine Garden, Wuthering Heights by Emily Bronte, and classic fairytales with darker themes resonate with this aesthetic.

witchcraft and nature journals: witchcraft and nature-themed journals are popular in the dark more kei community. many enjoy documenting plant knowledge, seasonal cycles, and forest photography, often with an emphasis on the darker, hidden beauty of nature.

visual art and photography: dark mori kei is also influenced by art and photography that captures shadowy forests, mystical creatures, and haunting but beautiful landscapes. artists like Brian Froud, known for his dark fantasy illustrations, are popular in the community.

inspo

dark mori kei is a style that celebrates the mysterious, darker side of nature through a forest-inspired aesthetic. with its deep colors, layered fabrics, and mythical accessories, it channels the spirit of a dark forest fairy or a forest spirit. dark mori kei is for those who find beauty in the shadows, embracing a balance of nature and magic that feels otherworldly and grounded in the forest. this style offers a sense of hidden magic, embodying the darker, mythical says of the mori kei aesthetic.

make sure to follow, comment, and reblog for more style breakdowns like this!!!!! use my questions box in my profile to suggest any styles you want to see!!!!!!!!!!!

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