#fairy fountains for you as a treat

[proxycrit]

DAY 31- DUAL PEAKS STABLE

How did the fairy fountains move. Really. How. Zelda would poke and prod if she wasn’t so concerned with accidentally entering a pact with more ancient spirits. Link might have been able to get away with it, but he’s quite content splashing around in the fountain’s healing waters.

(This is a totk au called Familiar Familiar! It’s a what if zelda doesn’t go back in time and is actually just me reskinning botw with totk elements.)

((Want to support me? Check out my ✨ patreon ✨ for sketches and cut content! Please remember to use web or android— memberships via apple app eat an extra thirty percent of whatever purchase because we live in a dystopia ;0 ))

[adelheidvonschicksal]

Winter Time with Xavier Head Canons

Note: I know the winter holidays are still a few weeks away, but as a winter girl I’m too excited to wait.

When it gets cold he sleeps in even more than usual.

Xavier sleeps more than any average human can, but it gets twice as bad in the winter. It’s like having a hibernating bear or, in this case, a bunny at home most of the time, as he snuggles in his special warm weighted blanket that he pulls out as soon as the first snowflakes fall outside.

You have little hope in waking him up during the cold mornings, not even for breakfast, and he gets extra clingy to you, slyly convincing you to lay back down just for a few more minutes. After all, aren’t you cold? Don’t you like the new blanket? Why not cuddle with him more?

It’s hard to argue with him, especially when he wraps his arms around your waist and pulls you closer, gently cuddling against your shoulder until you admit it might be a good idea to warm up a little longer.

People watching becomes even more of a pastime.

Xavier has been a people watcher since the day you met him. He didn’t join festivities much but that never stopped him from taking in the sight of humanity around him, joyfully going through their day and making plans for the holidays.

You learn quickly to match his pace, taking more interest in the world around you as you go about your daily errands hand in hand. He thinks it’s the cutest when you always stop at the sight of some holiday knick-knack or join in on building snowmen. He insists on stopping and joining in. Or, he wants to suddenly go into the store and look around. Or, maybe stop and take pictures in front of the fountain or a cute display.

“There’s still time to finish our errands; it won’t hurt to take a detour.”

If you agree, you return home much later than you thought, barely most of your errands complete and with way more items than Xavier thought you would find. He regrets it a little because his arms get sore carrying all your purchases.

If you disagree, you’ll find the cute fuzzy ornament you spotted in the store window earlier perched happily on your dresser.

Matching clothes and hot chocolate.

Nothing is better for the two of you than a relaxing day at home. You spend many days relaxing on the couch, watching the latest holiday romances and off-season horror movies.

Your evening is always complimented by snacks and a mug of hot chocolate decorated with marshmallows and cream, sticky syrup, and whatever other concoction the two of you could make up in the kitchen that will undoubtedly leave you regretting your decisions when you’re too hyped up to sleep (which means Xavier can’t sleep either unless you end up poking his face and waking him up all night).

The cold air seeping in from the windows and balcony is fended off by the matching pair of fuzzy socks on your feet.

Warm soups and hot pots.

Winter brings the excuse to eat more, specifically fresh hot food and hot pot. You can constantly find your lover sampling the treats and seasonal food that the holidays bring, always sharing baked sweet potatoes and coffee with you from pumpkin to peppermint mocha and gingerbread.

He gets the urge to bake things himself, so the kitchen becomes a war zone, but you both manage to make something you can share.

Festival Time

You take the time to celebrate the holidays with him, starting with cleaning the house long before winter begins. You bring the plants inside and buy/knit something cozy for your feathered friends on the balcony to rest in for the winter.

You make dumplings to celebrate and during that time you discover that the denizens of Philos still celebrate the holiday, with the added feature of adding star-shaped lights for their ancestors. It takes no time to set up fairy lights throughout the house after that.

The final trip is enjoying Christmas. The two of you go out on a cozy date before going through the market that usually pops up on the road back to the apartment complex.

You make one final trip through the festivities to visit the shrine and place your wishes for next year. You don’t have anything you want other than being able to spend another year with Xavier and welcome Spring together.

[icomeandg0]

For ‘More than One’ maybe you could detail the relationships between each Link and their y/n or how they met!

Hi Anon!

I'd love to explain and details each Link and Y/n for ya!

I'm addressing each of them as ' Link ' instead of their LU names and that goes for the same as the Y/n's. Also oopies on Times one but it was more of Y/n lore than a detail of their relationship.

Content under cut

Time/OOT Link.

I think this was predictable but you and Link (For majority of the Links and Y/n's) started off as childhood best friends. They met each other while Y/n and Malon were near the fountain at castle town while waiting for Talon.

I think the trope suited for them would be childhood sweethearts/you fell first and he fell harder.

You two met at castle town when you were both young, When Link was going to meet with Zelda for the first time.

I like to think a lot about each of the Links and Y/n's relationships because I want them all to have very different stories to each other.

ALSO! YES YOU TWO ARE MARRIED AND HAVE...Want part two? Hit that follow button (JK, But I won't go into too much detail, yet.)

Oh before I forget, I think it's a relevant fact to mention that Y/n was adopted by Talon so Malon and Y/n are half sisters?

I like dramatic backgrounds and relationships so, You know how on ice age, the first movie where they look after that baby? Yeah so.

Y/n's mother was running away with her in her arms, she was supposidly meant to go to the Deku tree to be looked after but Y/n's mother was too tired as she drifted down the Zora's river.

Talon was delivering as per usual when he saw a woman floating down the stream so he quickly dropped everything and hurried over to the edge and grab onto her arm. Y/n's mother couldn't open her eyes. Too tired to do so, she only pushed the baby into Talons arms which he was alarmed but once he saw your h/c tufts of hair and such a peaceful resting face he couldn't help but have the need to protect you...However he knew better than to take you but when he looked back. Your mother wasn't there.

"I think daddy fell asleep again." Malon comments as the two of you sat on the edge of the fountain in the middle of town. "Definitely" You agreed, "He always does this, I would march up to the castle and find him myself if it weren't for those annoying knights." "Yeah, if only there was someone that could sneak past them all and get Talon"

Just saying that, you watch as a kid in green, around your age ran past...and tripped over a tile. The fairy flew around him 'Hurry Link! We need to get to the castle quickly!' The fairy called out, the boy looked around to make sure no one had seen that but when he looked back he was met with yours and Malons eyes glued on him. It was clear he grew flustered so he quickly stood up and ran off in the direction to the castle.

"Maybe he can!" Malon points at the boy running, "Yeah, Let's catch up to him!"

Warrior/HW Link.

Link and Y/n in this era are a fun duo in my mind, I did think about a soft reader with this Link because I thought it would be funny that a womanizer would fall in love with someone soft hearted and made him want to forget every woman he's ever been with. A quote that would've fit this would be 'I can fix him'

The mischaracterisation for Link hurts me, I don't know what I was thinking honestly.

ANYWAYS! I liked the idea of someone bossing Link around, Do I feel bad? No.

Also I think Link doesn't like sorceresses that much (Because of Cia) so I made Y/n into a witch. Yes sorceresses and Witches are practically the same.

Y/n in this era is self centered, confident, bold—Someone that acts all high and mighty really.

"Move out of my way, Rookie."

"You expect respect? Hah! You have to earn it, especially from me."

"You have to improve your sword skill before I can treat you as an equal. Trust me, You're far from achieving so."

She made him want to pull all his hair out.

Their relationship is a slowburn / Enemies to lovers.

Don't worry, they get better and maybe I'll do a full explanation on their story if anyones interested to also explain on why Warriors was so in shock when he had found her again (Hinting to my last chapter of more of us series)

Fun fact! This Y/n wore high heeled boots during the war…refused to wear any other type of shoes. Still wears them to this day.

"Link, I would like to introduce you to your new ally and commander" Impa says calmly as she led him through the hallways of the castle, "She's a witch but trust me, she's a brave and responsible type" Impa informed.

"That's good to know" Link sighs in relief, he's over dealing with witches and sorceresses but if this witch is just as Impa describes, He can handle it. Impa opens the door to the courtyard to be met with a woman around his age standing in the middle of the field, The woman was sharp and looked back to see the pair.

"Y/n, meet Link. He's the chosen hero of Hyrule." With this, Link bowed his head towards the woman who had only scoffed, "So he's a rookie with a title? I don't get what makes him so special from the rest." Link growled and took a step forward but Impa held him back, "No fighting. You'll look after him during the times on the battlefield whether it be for aiding him or healing." "Tch, I don't remember agreeing to those rules-" "Y/n." "Fine."

Impa looked over Link, "Good luck, she's a hard one to impress. She'll keep you on your toes" Link only sighed. "Lucky me."

Twilight/TP Link

I'm still deciding on a good plot for the two because as you all probably guessed, the two are the ones that can transform.

Puppy love is how I would describe them.

Started off as childhood best friends or sweethearts. To the village it was as if you two were already destined to be. You two were attached to the waist even!

I was thinking that a week from Link officially starting his journey, Y/n had gone missing so he went out and originally was going to try and find her but he got caught up in other stuff.

However, there was a dragon following him during his journey so in his eyes he had two companions being the dragon and Midna.

I Think you all know who the dragon is at this point.

Not much to describe them about, a sappy couple? Like those overly cringey lover types? lol.

I also like to think that Y/n Is more of a city gal despite being brought up in the country sideeee.

Link obviously hitting you up with his southern accent trying to make you fall to his feet but as soon as you start talking like a proper city gal he's on his knees- Scratch that, turned into Wolfie.

Post game Y/n, I like to think she started a daycare or a school for the kids because they don't learn much intelligently but are more hands on. I like to head canon that this Y/n is one of the smartest in the village BUT! She isn't the smartest Y/n.

Meeting this Link was love at first sight...At the age of 6.

One fine day in Ordon Village you were helping about with a few little task such as carrying light things from one place to another when you heard a familiar voice call out.

“Y/n! Meet the new boy in the village! Link” Ilia introduced you to the boy around your age, he smiled sheepishly and you just analysed his every detail.

“Hi Link, It’s nice to meet you” you say softly as you smile back at him, he tilts his head “Hi…Uh, You’re very pretty.” Ilia’s eyes widened as she heard the bold words of the boy behind her, you were just as equally shocked but you only giggled.

“Thank you, Link” you twirl a strand of hair with your index finger. You almost dropped what you were carrying and you were quick to wrap your hand back around the item.

“Well, I've got to drop this off. I’ll see you soon?” You say with a soft smile before turning away and walking off. Link had a stupid grin plastered on his face which earned a sigh from Ilia.

Wild/BOTW Link

The chaotic duo.

Friends to lovers (Strangers to friends to lovers in TOTK-)

Now, these two give the group the biggest headache it's unbelievable.

It's not even Link sometimes!

Y/n in this universe is just overly chaotic and Link is there for it because in some sense he honestly can't talk, on some days he's just as bad.

First encounter? Woke up half naked to one another and Y/n continued with some awkward conversation after that so Link accepted his fate that this was his idiot.

Both Link and Y/n are the life of the party, but Y/n is more extrovert while Link is more of both but it honestly depends if we're talking about LINK or WILD.

Wild is both

Link is an introvert

"So, what’s your name?” Y/n had asked as she grabbed a baked apple from the campfire nearby. Waking up next to one another naked was not how you two wanted to meet but you brushed past it and tried to become acquainted with him instead.

After a few seconds of silence she spoke up again, “Well, not much of a talker huh? I’ll go first, My names Y/n” you say, snapping the apple in half you hold one side out to him.

“If you don’t have a name, I’ll give you one. Nice to meet you, Bob” you grin, you watch his every move and soon he reaches out and grabs the other half of the apple, “Link, it’s Link.” “Well, Bobs a nice name too” that earned a faint chuckle from the boy.

Four/FS Link

Now.

Y/n in this era is a pain in the ass.

as noted in my 'More than one'

She's stubborn, feisty, sharp tongued, short tempered, strong headed but she is reasonably logical and is the smartest one out of the Y/n's.

One more thing to add about her is that she can't fight effectively, she can throw punches at people but to monsters? She rather not. She helps with strategising with Time and Warriors until she ends up in a small argument with either one when discussing plans.

Anyways! Four is our darling, calm and collected but won't hesitate to put you in your place, a perfect someone for our dear Y/n!

Four can tolerate her behaviour more than anyone else because they are childhood best friends, Of course there will be times where Four has to be stern with Y/n but that's only to make sure she doesn't get overwhelmed with anger.

Despite all her negative comments she may say about him she doesn't mean it half the time because deep down she's touched at how he still sticks by her side.

Y/n also likes to make things, like an inventor or fix things. Four makes and Y/n fixes.

Yes she knows the colours and finds them 'annoying' too.

Blue? Loves riling him up and arguing with him

Red? Likes to tease him until he's almost crying.

Green? Likes to point out every mistake he makes which always puts him off

Vio? Can relate to him and genuinely has a sorta connection with him but can end up arguing but Vio would win because his calm and collected self pisses her off because it's like her words aren't effecting him.

Relationship trope? I would say Sunshine x grump.

At the age of 5, you were in your little dress and your mother had just finished doing your hair, You were hiding behind your mother as she greets the new neighbour who was a old grandpa smith.

"Y/n? Go say hi to the nice man's grandson" Your mother encouraged. You looked up at her with a pleading look but she gave you a look that said 'You better go now or else you'll experience the pain when we get home.' You gulp and shuffle towards the little boy.

The boy grins, you could see a gap in his teeth which made you grimace, "I'm Link! Nice to meet you!" Link held his hand, You gently took his hand. "I'm Y/n"

"Awe! They're already getting along!" "R-really? They just introduced themselves-" "Would you like coffee?" "O-Oh yes that would be lovely"

Once the adults were out of sight you scowl, yanking your hand away from him "I don't want to be your friend, If anything keep 10 feet away from me" You point at him which made him blink in surprise but he grins again. "Cool! Let's play!" He completely ignored your words and grabs your hand again and drags you over to a grass patch.

"W-Wait! Gosh dang it!"

(She hasn’t acquired the ability to swear just yet.)

Sky/SS Link

Ah.

I Love this Link a lot.

Which is why I want to give him the most complicated relationship with his Y/n.

Relationship trope? She loved him too early, He loved her too late + SLOWBURNNNN

It's painful, I know.

Y/n in this era is known for her shy exterior, she was easily brushed off since it was as if she was never there. Of course she was in a trio with Link and Zelda but it felt as if she was third wheeling and she was sure Link had a crush on Zelda so Y/n never brought up the fact she had a crush on him. Had a crush on the boy for a few years now.

CHILDHOOD BEST FRIENDS AGAIN!

He began to develop feelings when they were on the adventure to get Zelda back, It was the first time he's seen Y/n so...out there and he can finally acknowledge her as she truly was.

But as his feelings grew, her feelings lessened

He did have a love rival, Ghirahim.

After their adventure with each other he was going to confess his feelings but when Y/n could see the fond look on his face she didn't want to know what would've happened next so she didn't allow him to finish but instead told him she was going to leave and adventure the surface again.

Link was heartbroken, he was a sappy lover type...He wanted to be yours.

He offered to come along but you refused saying you didn't need him and that he should be with Zelda again.

That's when he realises.

"Are you new here?" Link asked you curiously, the young boy, probably just turned 5? You were 4 at the time and the boy smiled "I've never seen you around before!" You only sniffled "I've been here since I was little" "W-wait, really? I'm sorry I haven't noticed you earlier."

"Why's that?" You asked softly, still haven't made eye contact with him yet. "Because we could've been friends a lot faster!" Your head snaps towards him after hearing his words. "So, Should we be friends?" He smiles. It takes a bit of encouragement, you were hesitant at first but you gave a small nod.

"Yeah, Okay..."

Wind/WW Link

Obvious disclaimer this will just reach as far as a crush as the two are underage and I find young relationships (Below 15) Silly/Stupid.

Ironic enough, You didn't meet Link but rather introduced to him after he was allowed on Tetra's ship.

You weren't friends with Link...No. You were best buddies with Tetra!

Y/n is a mermaid, I think it's fitting because there aren't any Zora in this era and it's pirates. Pirates need mermaids to cause chaos duh.

Well ironically enough, You're the princess of the sea so when you heard of Tetra and her crew you were intrigued so when you were having free time from your princess duties you somewhat came across their ship.

They caught you at first and were going to sell you but you convinced them not to and somehow you're a part of the team as a not official- official team member.

Back to you and Link, You had ventured with him at times because unlike Tetra, You could swim beside Link and aid him along the way.

"SHE SPLASHED ME!" Link cried out as he wiped the water off his face to the best of his abilities, "Oh Boho~ Get used to it" You taunted as you stick your tongue out at him.

"You're going to let her talk to me like that?!" Link looked towards Tetra who had only shrugged. "Oh grow a pair. She's harmless" Link looks back at you as you grin up at him, showing off your sharp teeth. "Harmless my ass.."

Legend/LTTP Link

Now.

Link hasn't met his Y/n in this era yet so I can't really comment on anything.

However, Y/n already knew Link before meeting him in the 'More than one' series.

Not because of the tales told about him or his adventures but she's talked to him a few times but just not in her own skin.

Sound confusing?

It is.

Anyways, This Y/n has the most tragic backstory out of them all which made her emotionally reserved but in a way she's not depressed or anything like that, she's content. (Despite everything she’s been through)

That's a story for another time.

Link doesn't particularly like his Y/n at first because of how at ease she is when the situation is serious so he thinks she's just messing around so something stupid might happen.

Relationship trope? A bit of sunshine x grump? Not really but slowburn.

Hyrule/LOZ Link

Another Link who hasn't met their Y/n

Now I think these two resemble puppy love.

His Y/n has bimbo vibes

She doesn't dress like one I swear, plus the others forbid.

She's pretty and dumb.

He's pretty (In your eyes) and dumb.

Y/n doesn't think too much about her actions nor about the consequences which led her to getting hurt many times but with Link by her side there's another healer to take care of her.

(HW Y/n was impressed and upgraded him to her apprentice...Warriors wasn't happy that Hyrule immediately on HW Y/n's good side)

Their relationship is love at first sight? Morley Y/n since she is quite open with her opinions, Know not to tell him until time is right.

Gossips with BOTWY/n the most about it which always results in Y/n to get teased.

His Y/n is overly excited, golden retriever vibes, extreme extrovert.

Link is the complete opposite.

(In my eyes at least)

Opposites attract.

Also!

If anyone's wondering the Y/n's do hold a triforce in position...or should I say Tetra-force?

I like to think that some of the Links have love rivals just to spice things up.

I didn't add a little story for Hyrule or Legend because of course, they only met their Y/n in the more than one series. Also guilty because I did not edit this.

[urmultideadfandomperson]

The Specialists as Your Boyfriend

Fandom(s): Winx Club

Pairing(s): Red Fountain X Reader

Character(s): Sky, Brandon, Riven, Timmy, Helia

Genre(s): Fluff

Writing Style: Headcanons

Summary: A few headcanons of the Red Fountain Specialists as your boyfriend.

Warning(s): None

Requested by: None

Note: Hello! It's been a while since I wrote some headcanons like these. And yes, I joined the Winx Club fandom recently because I just finished Season One! It feels good to go back in track! I apologize for my lack of posts nowadays, but I'll try my best to feed you some content! Enjoy your read!

Sky

I know a lot of people find him as 'meh' because he is sort of a basic blonde, I can agree

But for me, he's super sexy, I cannot. This prince completely stole my heart because of his basic personality (yes, I'm a basic bitch too)

Anyway, Sky is definitely a sweetheart, already seen at how he treats Bloom in the first season

But don't forget he's the prince of Erakylon, so he's definitely rich

Sky will pamper you with so much love and affection

Whether if you're royalty or not, or if you're a fairy or an earthling, this man will still love you

Hand kisses are a MUST

Brandon

Oh boy. This suave flirt

Because Brandon is Brandon, he will obviously love teasing and flirting with you.

But that doesn't mean he wouldn't flirt with the other girls in Magix

As Prince Sky's squire, he obviously knows how to defend you. He may or may not try to impress you that way

He will definitely bring you to dates in Magix. Wherever you want to go, he will come with you

He may be flirtatious to you and other girls, but I assure you that Brandon is loyal. How did he become Sky's squire if he wasn't a loyal servant to him?

And for me, I have a feeling he will give golden retriever vibes

Riven

THIS MAN IS THE LOVE OF MY LIFE

Riven is really awkward and closed off in the beginning of your relationship. But as time goes by, he becomes comfortable

He isn't the best guy in words of affirmation, but the way he helps you out when you need it is always there. It's his way of loving you

This man actually has the best and warmest hugs

It's a guilty pleasure of his in which you try to calm him whenever he is about to go maniac over someone or something

Surprisingly very cuddly in private

Riven also wants you to stay in Red Fountain often so you can watch him spar with the other Specialists

Timmy

Similar to Riven, he is firstly awkward in the start of relationships (less awkward than the latter, however).

He loves to go to the library with you to study for exams and such

When he has new things to share, the first person Timmy will approach is you because he knows you will listen

Timmy is actually really blushy, and this is evident whenever you help him with his glasses

He isn't really into physical contact, but he does excel in quality time. He loves your presence with him

You're his assistant during calculations and he loves your cooperation as a duo

Timmy loves to gift you some new items and he likes to impress you with his logical thinking

Helia

Ah yes, the hottest guy to ever exist in Red Fountain of the Magix Realm

Helia loves to write poems and short stories for you

Since it is often seen that he loves to draw, he would secretly draw you in his sketchbook

Expect bouquets of flowers from him once in a week

It may or may not be expected, but Helia loves to say some pickup lines. These pickup lines are either cheesy or romantic

You are the only person he allows to braid his hair, so be thankful

Hand kisses are a MUST 2.0

[12thperigeeball]

Once upon a time, there was a beautiful mansion in the forests of Alternia. Perched on the banks of a heart shaped lake, this hive spent it's nights and days in relative peace. It was secluded and sparsely lived in - and within its walls it held a beauty that many a poet would sing songs about. Locked within it's walls, the beauty spent his time among the gardens tending to the roses and trees and speaking to the birds and rabbits that came to visit. Every living soul who came across this long lost princess adored him, whether they be troll, animal, or lusii.

But the fairy tale of the lost, secluded princess couldn't go on forever. Every story has it's beginning, it's troubles, and then it's end - and the princess's story was no different.

The moment the first snows touched the tips of the dying leaves of the mansion's woods, the princess locked himself in his chambers and began to plan. To end this story, to free him from his self imposed imprisonment, he must plan and throw the loveliest ball that Alternia has never seen and locate himself a King, Queen, and Couturier to reign over the winter courts.

And so it begun! Invites were sent enmasse - every troll that had a name, an inbox, or even stood still long enough for someone to find them had an invite in their hands! Dyed parchments with hand-lettered illuminated text told every citizen of the world of the princess's troubles, his desire to seat new royalty upon the 12th Perigee Ball throne.

Come one, come all, in your finest livery, to showcase to everyone that you have what it takes to become a divine ruler.

While trolls were hard at work preparing for the competition with dreams of gold and rewriting history, the princess beseeched the finest magicians he knew to come and glamor his hive to match the occasion. Almost overnight the mansion was transformed! Castle ramparts replaced plastered walls, golden molding framed each window and deep purple and gold carpets lined the halls - and the finest craftsmen the world has ever seen came to staff his kitchens and halls, turning even the sleepiest, quietest woodland hive into a bustling castle.

When the day of reckoning came, it was almost as though the princess had picked up her castle and placed it in another magical world. The closer guests came, the less snow there was. Dead plants transformed into vibrant living trees, dusted with ice and snow yet kept alive through the magic of the druids he beseeched in honeyed words to help. Magical beasts roamed through the trees, unicorns were glimpsed through the bushes as they watched the guests and even a small dragon flew overhead - guiding each guest through the timeless woods to the castle within.

Even the courtyard itself seemed as though it was from another, more divine world! The fountain was resplendent with glittering, gold water, a delicate tree made of silver and bearing ruby red apples stood as its centerpiece. A troll draped in loose white robes perched on the edges of the pond offered the apples to select passersby, promising them with a wink that a single bite will afford them the beauty and immortality of the gods if they were brave enough. Wizened storytellers entertained the guests with dramatic tales of the gods, of trolls with wings who flew too close to the sun, of trolls so brave to defy the gods that they sat in eternal agony in their punishments. Glided foods passed through the crowds on silver platters carried by trolls with wings on their feet and no troll was turned away from being treated like nobles.

But this was just a taste of what was to come! It wasn't long before the hidden magical grove had hit it's capacity - and it was time to allow the guests entrance to the castle. Knights formed at the castle entrance to welcome the Princess as horns announced his arrival and the crowds parted before the opening doors.

The Princess Kilran Barbas, in all his glory, stood behind the carved wooden doors as they opened flanked on both sides by knights in full gilded armor. Dressed in a tyrian pink dress dripping with clear crystals and gold, one would almost mistake his own caste! Gone was his normal orange and even his eyes were tinted the royal pink of Alternian royalty and his round face was framed with fins that even fluttered in the cool night air.

His powdered cheeks dimpled as he took in the crowds of the ball and he spread his jeweled hands to address them all. “Welcome, guests!” Kilran called out. “To the 12th Perigee Ball! I am yet again honored to host again this sweep, and I am excited to see the enthusiasm everyone has brought to my hive. Nothing brings me more joy than seeing your smiling faces! This event isn’t about wealth, or notoriety, or connections - but rather, the warmth we all share by being together this time of the sweep. Whether you came with a date or if you came alone, know that you are what makes this night truly special.”

“So please, come inside - and enjoy the Majesty and Mythos I’ve prepared for you this evening.”

With a wave of his hands and a delicate bow of his head, Kilran and his guards stepped aside as the guests surged forward to enter the mansion.

Guests entering the mansion may have thought they stepped into another world on the drive up to the grounds but they truly were not prepared for how they were transported into another realm entirely when they entered the halls. The normal ceiling of the ball was gone - replaced by clouds and constellations that seemed to hang and change in real time above their heads. Plush velvet carpets edged in gold lead the guests through the brick castle walls and knights stood at the ready as the crowds were guided through the lavish and rich decor of the castle. The grand gallery was the first place they were taken. The halls were framed with large, oil paintings of the Kings and Queens and Couturiers of sweeps past, resplendent and lit with torches that burned brighter than the passion of those who viewed them. They were a story long since told - and at the end of the hall stood two blank canvasses, painters waiting at the sides, ready to write the end of this tale. Next to these canvasses sat the prizes of the night: the crowns of the King and Queen and the resplendent royal cape of the Couturier, standing upon spinning pedestal so they caught the light from the foyer's torches in their glittering jewels.

The story was just beginning, the myth just starting to be told - and at the end of the night, it will have it's finest ending with three trolls ascending from the masses to join the history books, to be recognized and loved and have their story told from now until the end of time.

So how will this story end? What kind of king or queen will free the princess from his cursed solitude?

Well, that remains to be seen, wouldn’t it? But until the ink finally dries on the storybook, why not enjoy yourselves?

What will your character do?

[glowup-princess]

ʜᴏᴡ ᴛᴏ ʀᴏᴍᴀɴᴛɪᴄɪᴢᴇ ꜱᴛᴜᴅʏ

1. Create a Beautiful Study Environment

Light a candle or use fairy lights for a cozy ambiance.

Keep your desk organized and decorate it with items you love (plants, photos, or quotes).

Use aesthetically pleasing stationery like colorful pens, highlighters, and notebooks.

2. Curate a Study Playlist

Find instrumental music, lo-fi beats, or classical tunes to set the mood.

Alternatively, choose ambient sounds like rain, coffee shop chatter, or nature.

3. Romanticize Your Materials

Write notes neatly and add doodles or illustrations.

Use highlighters to make your notes visually appealing.

Treat your textbooks as if they’re sacred knowledge.

4. Incorporate Rituals

Make a cup of tea or coffee before starting.

Set intentions for the session, like "Today, I’m learning to grow."

Take a moment to visualize yourself succeeding.

5. Dress the Part

Wear comfortable but stylish clothes that make you feel good.

Use accessories like a cozy blanket or reading glasses to feel scholarly.

6. Embrace the Aesthetic

Imagine you’re in a library or an old-world study room.

Use vintage-style journals or leather-bound notebooks.

7. Celebrate Small Wins

Reward yourself after completing a session (e.g., a treat or break in the sun).

Reflect on how far you've come and journal your achievements.

8. Use Meaningful Motivations

Remind yourself why you’re studying and visualize your goals.

Think of yourself as the main character in a story striving to succeed.

9. Add Nature

Study near a window with a view of trees or greenery.

Bring a small plant or flowers to your desk.

10. Make Breaks Magical

Read a poem or inspiring quote during breaks.

Do a quick yoga stretch or step outside to breathe fresh air.

Study sessions:

Atmosphere and Environment

Theme Your Space: Create a "study café" vibe or a "Victorian scholar" ambiance with décor and lighting.

Seasonal Touches: Incorporate seasonal elements (like autumn leaves, holiday lights, or fresh flowers) into your workspace.

Essential Oils: Diffuse calming scents like lavender or energizing ones like citrus to boost focus.

Natural Light: Position your desk near a window for natural light and fresh air.

Comfortable Seating: Use a cozy chair with a blanket or cushion for added comfort.

Aesthetic Tools and Accessories

Fountain Pen: Write with a fountain pen to add elegance to your notes.

Wax Seal Stamp: Use one to seal envelopes or even decorate your journal pages.

Custom Stationery: Invest in unique notebooks or personalized study planners.

Color-Coded Systems: Use washi tape or colored tabs for visual appeal and organization.

Glass Water Bottles or Mugs: Sip from aesthetic drinkware that fits your style.

Mindset and Imagination

Pretend You’re in a Movie: Act as if your study session is a montage scene in a film about your success story.

Be the Hero of Your Journey: Imagine your studies as the preparation for a grand quest or mission.

Romantic Narration: Mentally narrate your study day as though it were a novel (“She sipped her tea, deeply immersed in knowledge…”).

Creative Techniques

Illustrated Notes: Add doodles, diagrams, or charts to make concepts come alive.

Calligraphy Headers: Write chapter titles or key points in elegant lettering.

Mind Maps as Art: Turn mind maps into colorful and interconnected masterpieces.

Storytelling Learning: Create a story around the subject you’re studying to make it more engaging.

Incorporating Media

Study Vlogs: Record time-lapse videos of yourself studying to inspire future sessions.

Mood Boards: Create Pinterest boards or vision boards inspired by your study goals.

Inspiring Quotes: Print or write quotes from authors or thinkers related to your subject.

Embracing the Moment

Slow Morning Starts: Begin your day with a peaceful routine before diving into study.

Mindful Study: Pay attention to the sensations of writing, reading, or typing to stay present.

Gratitude Journaling: Start or end with a quick note of gratitude for the opportunity to learn.

Fun and Whimsy

Create Playlists for Each Subject: Match the vibe of your studies with specific music genres.

Snack Like a Scholar: Eat finger foods or pastries as if you’re in an old library café.

Dress Like a Character: Imagine you’re a professor, a scholar, or even a wizard studying spells.

Study out: Take your books or laptop to a park or garden.

End with a Ritual

Summarize Elegantly: End sessions with a recap written beautifully in a journal.

Close the Day with Tea: Treat yourself to a calming tea ceremony as you reflect.

Celebrate Your Effort: Create a simple reward system, like a treat, movie night, or self-care ritual.

Remember be gentle w yourself <3

pt.2?

Likes, comments, and reblogs are appreciated <3

[tokkiheart]

2025 Year of Fluff

I got inspired to make this after a friend shared with me the 2023 Year of Whump made by @soheavyaburden and I wanted to make something like it, but for individuals like me who prefer fluff and can’t (for one reason or another) do a month long challenge. I’ve had this sitting in drafts for 2 years and I’m finally going to publish it this year.

This is my first time ever doing something like this, but I did my best to have a nice mix of prompts that can work for romantic fluff, platonic fluff, family fluff, etc. so that no matter what kind of fluff you want to do, there’s prompts for you!

I also themed some weeks around big holidays for those who celebrate them while keeping the prompts vague or open to interpretation and aren’t really holiday specific. For example, the week of Easter there’s “scavenger hunt” and the week of Christmas there’s “gift exchange” and “home for the holidays.”

For any prompts where there’s an “X” in it, just substitute the X out for whatever word you want that fits in the context of the prompt. Any prompts marked with “(any)” really means any interpretation of the word/prompt. For example: “Game Day (any)” can be anything from actual sports to video games, board games, card games, RPGs, etc.

You can choose to do this event monthly, weekly, or wild card and change up which you do! Wild Card is basically doing whatever prompt strikes your fancy from any month/week!

This is completely at your leisure! No stress, no pressure, just fun and fluff! Feel free to mix & match prompts or pair with other challenges to your heart’s desire (the only exception is whump, hurt/comfort is fine but there needs to be comfort).

This is open to all fandoms, relationships, forms of media creation (except AI), etc.!

I don’t have a place on AO3 you can submit to, but if someone else wants to make one, contact me and I’ll add the link in this post!

Anyway, without further ado, here are the prompts!

2025 Year of Fluff Prompts

January 1: New Year’s Resolutions/Trying New Things Together/New Year’s Kiss/“This is all so new to me”

January 5: Reassurances/Moral Support/Promises Made, Promises Kept/Massages/“Guess who?”

January 12: Emotional Support/Holding Hands In Pockets/Warm Bubble Bath/Blankets/“I’ve got your back”

January 19: Walk In The Park/Handwritten Notes/Piggyback Rides/First Kiss/“This made me think of you”

January 26: Stargazing/Pillow Fort or Blanket Fort/Candles, Lanterns, Fairy Lights/Compliments & Praise/“You too?”

February 2: Trust/First ‘I Love You’/Blushing/Walking Together/“Let me get that for you”

February 9: Sweet Treat/Valentine’s Day/Love Letters/Love Language/“Shut up and kiss me”

February 16: Love Confessions/Throwing Coins Into A Wishing Well Or Fountain/Weekend Trip/Sleepover/“Show me”

February 23: Bridal Carry/Soothing Touch/Cuddles/Sweet Notes or Texts/Acts of Devotion/“Can I help?”

March 2: Drive-In Theater/Helping With Chores/Sympathetic Ear/Caught In The Rain/“Make a wish”

March 9: Kiss For Good Luck/Tokens of Affection/Sweet Dreams/Wish Granting (or Wish Fulfillment)/“You’re in luck”

March 16: Spring Cleaning/Flower Crowns/Snuggles/Picnic/“You still have this?”

March 23: BBQ/Bouquets/Boating Day Trip/Besotted/“Be mine?”

March 30: Being Silly/Pleasant Surprise/Supporting Silly Quirks or Hobbies/Happy Accidents/“Is this a dream?”

April 6: Nose Kiss or Nose Rub/Parallel Play or Work/Scavenger Hunt/Rainy Day In/“You know you’re really adorable when you…”

April 13: Dandelion Wishes/Sharing Food/Photoshoot/Bookstore/“Oh no, you’re a morning person!”

April 20: Stolen Kisses or Stolen Moments Together/Amusement Park/Meaningful Gift/Uniquely You/“Wanna try?”

April 27: Winning A Plushie Or Prize For The Other/Spooning/Mutual Pining/Shopping Together/“Guess what… I love you”

May 4: Bedtime Stories/Domestic Intimacy/Long Conversations/Putting Flowers In Their Hair/“Could you stay just a little longer?”

May 11: Wearing Or Stealing Each Other’s Clothes/Romantic Dinner/Long Walks/Established ‘I Love You’/“May I have this dance?”

May 18: Heart-to-Heart/Napping or Falling Asleep Together/Adopting A Pet Or Plant/Holding Hands/“Could you stay on the line? I want to fall asleep to your voice”

May 25: Family Time/Game Day (any)/Home Cooked Meal/Surprise Visit/“I’m with you”

June 1: Passing The Time Together/Parade/Making Or Getting The Other’s Favorite Food/Nature Walk/“I’m so proud of you”

June 8: Breakfast In Bed/Fireworks/Pet Names/Rainbows and Butterflies/“Oh no! You’re a night owl!”

June 15: Bearhugs/Lifting Them Up/Pillow Fight/Ruffling Hair/“Did you bring snacks?”

June 22: Accidents Don’t Just Happen Accidentally/Tugging At The Other’s Clothes To Keep Them Close/Listening/Photo Booth Antics/“Want a taste?”

June 29: Flirting/Running Into The Other’s Arms/Summer Vacation/Secret Hideout/“Sorry, I got lost in your eyes”

July 6: Heart Eyes/Running Fingers Through The Other’s Hair/Forehead Touches/Road Trip/“Do you like it?”

July 13: Day At The Beach/Sharing Ice Cream/Swimming Pool Or Hot Tub/Date Night/“I don’t need X to have a good time, I just need you”

July 20: Truth Or Dare Or 20 Questions/Reading Together/Back Hugs/Outsider POV/“Follow me”

July 27: Caretaking/Meeting The Family/Public Displays of Affection/Finishing Each Other’s Sentences/“You read my mind”

August 3: Adoption/Swing Set/Under The Moonlight/Tickling/“Can we do that again?”

August 10: Carrying Things For The Other/Playful Banter/Comforting Actions/Spontaneous Trip/“May I…?”

August 17: Study Buddy/School AU/Passing Notes/Conversations Without Words/“You’ve told your parents/family/friends?”

August 24: Public Library/Sharing Earbuds To Listen To Music Together/Leaving Notes With Food Or Drinks Packed Or Given/Meeting Up During Breaks/“Anything interesting happen today?”

August 31: Loving Gaze/Soft Kisses/Making Playlists Or Mixtapes For The Other/Doing The Other’s Hair/“You’ve been saving this for a special occasion” - “This is it”

September 7: Angel Kiss (Kissing Eyelids)/Power Outage/Resting Their Head On The Other’s Lap While They Do Something/Doing Chores Together/“Let me know what you need, alright?”

September 14: Awkward, But Cute/Good-Natured Teasing/Taking Pictures Of The Other Smiling Or In Their Element/Marathon (any)/“Practice makes perfect”

September 21: Good Morning & Good Night Texts or Written Messages/Sitting On Or Being Pulled Onto The Other’s Lap/Sharing A Book Or Reading A Series Together/Pick Up & Drop Off/“Come here”

September 28: Laughing Together/Pinky Swear/Tracing The Lines Or Writing On The Other’s Hand With Fingers/Watching The Other Sleep/“I’ll take care of it, go rest.”

October 5: Good Morning & Good Night Kisses/Helping The Other Put Something On/Comforting Presence/Running A Bath For The Other/“Feeling better?”

October 12: Play Fight/Carrying To Bed/Whispering Sweet Nothings/Holding Or Touching The Other While They Work/“Tell me about your day”

October 19: Sharing An Umbrella/Fixing The Other’s Clothes or Hair/Making Time To Be With The Other/Weekend In The Countryside/“Oh, I haven’t done this since I was X!”

October 26: Leaves/Kissing In The Rain/Comfort After A Rough Day/Sharing A Bed/“You are my home”

November 2: Soulmate AU/Pillow Talk/Inside Jokes/Tying The Other’s Shoe When It’s Untied/“I’m always here for you”

November 9: Wall Kiss/First Dance/Head Pets/Art, Craft, Poetry, Music/“Have fun?”

November 16: Reunion/Cooking Together/Secret Family Recipe/Photo Album Sharing/“I’m thankful for you”

November 23: Starting A New Tradition/Leading By The Hand/Swapping Favorite Playlists/Getting To Know You/“You’ll get X all over you” - “I don’t care”

November 30: First Snow/Matching Sweaters/Playing In Snow/Baking/“You’re not dressed warmly enough”

December 7: Hot Drinks/Snow Day/Huddled Together/Building A Snowperson/“Baby, It’s Cold Outside”

December 14: Snowed In/Giving A Coat Or Scarf To The Other/Wrapped/Hand Warmer/“I’m comfortable where I am, right here with you”

December 21: Gift Exchange/Home For The Holidays/All The Hugs/Head On The Other’s Shoulder/“It smells like you”

December 28: Cozy By The Fireplace/Doing Their Favorite Things Together/Cute Nicknames/Twirling/“Seeing your face makes me smile”

Place Where You Want Prompts:

• Birthday Party

• Anniversary/Friendiversary

• Celebrating A Holiday Together

• Fluff & Stuff (writer’s choice!)

[stardewstardropthoughts]

What the bachelors do for you for Valentine’s Day

Bachelorettes coming soon!

Harvey:

This man is nervous, absolutely sweating bullets

Dude got you flowers, coffee, he made a little gift basket of healthy snacks, energy tonics and muscle remedy’s

He doesn’t expect anything in return but you get him a new jacket, tie and two new model plans to build and pant

He’s thrilled dudes gonna cry

Alex:

He doesn’t really know what to do, talks a big game but actually nervous you won’t like what he got you

He got you some chocolate, a teddy bear and some flowers

Treats you to a nice dinner at the saloon in the private room

You get him some new weights and protein bars, also his favorite brand of protein powder from zuzu city

He’s over the moon and can’t believe you went all the way to the city to find him something he’d like

Sebastian

Mans lost

Never had a partner before on Valentine’s Day, has to ask Sam for advice

He got you a new video game, some comics he knew you’d like and a model of your Solarion Chronicles character

Oop you got him the same video game accidentally, you both had a laughing fit handing each other the gifts at that

You also got him a frozen tear, and some mangas you knew he would like

Sam

He’s not clueless, he has an idea of what he wants to get you

First off, he wrote you a song and played it for you, he also brought over pizza and movies so y’all could have a date night in

He brought blankets, snacks, a teddy bear and a buncha fairy roses for you despite his allergies

You got him a new skateboard since his was old, a pack of guitar strings incase he needed new ones, and a tigers eye crystal

Shane

Also lost as hell but try’s his best!

He gets you a bracelet that he saw and made him think of you, some pizza for a dinner date night in and ofcourse pepper poppers, he also got you some fake flowers because he also gets you one of those roses in the globes so it lives forever

He doesn’t think he’s worthy of gifts or love but you love him and make sure he knows he’s worth it

You get him some flowers, a set of matching bracelets so you both can have one and feel close to each other, and perhaps the most nerve wrecking gift

A mermaid pendent, you give it to him after dinner and watch nervously before he almost has a whole breakdown sobbing that you wanna marry him, he accepts ofcourse!

Elliot

This man is a whole ass romantic

Candle lit dinner on the beach, he gives you a poem book he wrote for you, a pearl, bunch-a fairy roses, he would serenade you if he could sing

You get him a new fancy fountain pen engraved with the date y’all started dating, a very fancy hair clip to keep his hair out of his eyes when he’s writing and a new scarf

He was in tears at the pen to be honest, he just loves you a lot

[1800naveen]

Chapter 27 of ACOWAR

When I first read ACOWAR and got to the part where Mor is having a breakdown about her dad entering Velaris but Rhysand tells her that he won't get in, nothing really was going through my mind. But something clicked today...

This. Just this. This paragraph made me realize that this is Jim Crow. Sarah Janet Maas, did you create the fairy version of Jim Crow? Has anyone else notice this?

In the late 19th century, these laws were created in the Southern part of the US which legalized racial segregation of the black community and other people of color. Black and white students attended separate schools, with black schools typically receiving far less funding and resources. Restaurants, theaters, hotels, parks, drinking fountains, you name it, were segregated.

Black people weren't welcomed almost anywhere. Signs that said "whites only" to keep them away and racists who would get agitated over a black person coming near their establishment. Lynch mobs chasing them, burning buildings associated with the black community, etc.

This also reminds me of ICE or border patrol. The people who deal with immigrants and will send them back to their countries, the same country that they left behind so that they can have a better life for themselves and their family.

Imagine finally leaving Hewn City. You feel a mix of emotions but happiness is one that fills you. You're finally free and you can see the world now! When you go to Velaris, you notice that some things are strange. People look at you funny, they treat you almost as if you're a criminal, they don't serve you at restaurants, they won't let you have a place of shelter, and you can't even have fun. It clicks in your head that this is not a safe, welcoming place for people like you. When it comes to an end, you're sent back into the darkness that you were came from, where you were born from, and you wonder if you'll ever see the light again.

I'm the daughter of two immigrants who left their country due to a civil war and they haven't been back since they left. When they came to America, it was all before shit like that was more serious so they were lucky not to deal with this crap. In many African countries (including my own), we have tribes AKA ethnic groups. Sarah's description of Illyria and the Illyrians makes me think of the dumb stereotypes of Africans. That we live in huts, that we hunt with bow and arrows or spears, that we're primitive, etc. You can tell in Sarah's writing that she has never actually experienced the things she writes.

I feel sad reading this again and knowing what that's the equivalent of. The woman doesn't even bother to hide her racism. Who am I kidding? If she used a black woman's death to promote her book, she can do shit like this! Sarah, you little white-privileged bitch.

How the Illyrians are portrayed as violent, savage, warmongering people who have a patriarchal system and are based on brown/indigenous people remind of George RR Martin's portrayal of the Dothraki who are nomadic warriors that are seen as brutes, warmongers, people who don't have any respect for their natural surroundings, have a patriarchal system, and their men treat women worse than the Illyrians. These guys are based on the Mongolians. I know George wrote this in the 90s and stuff but there had to be something based on portraying a culture into your fictional story.

My honest reaction to Sarah creating the fairy equivalent of the Jim Crow laws and ICE/border patrol:

Me realizing that if there's major problem that different groups of POC faces, she'll somehow put it in her books so that her white main characters can face it, so that they can finally be the ones that get oppressed:

SJM when you tell her that making her white main characters go through and face problems that people of color have struggled and dealt with for years isn't right:

[shadedheart138]

Too Much Thinking Is Bad For My Health (Part Two)

Several hours had passed, and Wars hadn't woken. If anything, he'd gotten worse. Wind and Time refused to leave his side, Wind holding one of his hands and Time constantly checking and rechecking him over. Wind's sobs had long been quieted, but his eyes were red-rimmed and still teary.

Wars' breathing had stayed painfully shallow and he'd barely moved once. Hyrule had tried his magic, hoping to ease at least some of his brother's pain, but it hadn't touched the agony. Legend had pulled him back with a tired, remorseful expression on his face.

Four was curled up against Wild, still shaking and talking to themself. Their colors refused to be quiet. Twilight had taken to pacing, while Sky just watched with fear.

"Are ya sure 's hemlock?" Twilight asked, for the upteenth time.

"Yes, Twilight. It's hemlock." Time said quietly.

"Are you-" "Hush." Legend snapped. "We're worried enough as is, we don't need you pacing and fretting and driving us up the fucking walls. Sit down."

Twilight wrung his wrists and frowned deeply, before sitting down near Sky. He seemed ready to leap up at any given second, but at least he was sitting.

There was no known antidote for hemlock. At all. Even the tiniest amounts were fatal. Potions didn't touch it, no amount of Hyrule's healing magic was able to help, and even the fairy that brought him back didn't treat it.

They could only hope he didn't die again. They only had three fairies amongst them all.

XXX

That hope was short lived, and before the end of the night, they were down to two fairies. It was Time who was up and pacing now, just as frantic as Twilight had been. Wind had been corralled to sleep near Four and Sky, held tight to try and keep him soothed.

"Are there any Fairy Fountains nearby?" Time asked Twilight, voice wavering and cracking in the middle. He was grasping at straws, trying to find some sort of way to keep his brother alive and make him better.

He refused to lose Warriors.

"Not that I can recall. But we can always go lookin'. There ain't many that I can actually think of."

"Fuck." Time whispered under his breath, crouching to run his hand over Warriors' forehead, feeling the still-climbing fever. They really shouldn't move him. He was frail enough as it were.

"Do you have a map, by any chance?" Time's voice was even quieter, now that he was closer to Warriors.

"No. Usually didn't need one, anyhow. If we weren't so far from Ordon, I'd say we take him to th' spring. But that's about a day's walk, at our normal pace, from here. It would take more time than I reckon he has."

It would. In maybe six, seven hours, Warriors had needed two fairies. He was barely hanging on. They only had two left, so maybe they had about seven hours, eight if they pushed it, to get to the spring before they were out of them. But the spring was the only chance they had.

No one in camp was really asleep. It didn't take long for Time to have them up and aware.

"Let's pack up camp. Sitting here, waiting, none of it is going to do Warriors any good. He'll only get worse. Hyrule, Wild, while camp's being broken, can you go looking for fairies? If we're going to get to Ordon in any reasonable time at all, we're going to need more than just two."

Wild and Hyrule went off into the woods, for once without the intent of play or exploring.

Time settled down near Warriors, and started packing up his brother's things. A notebook, his pens. Time folded his scarf neatly, hands trembling. How many times had he himself been wrapped in it, when he'd had one nightmare too many, or was too sick to get out of bed? No matter how bitter he was, during the war, he'd loved this scarf almost as much as the owner of it. It was a comfort, even now, as Time ran his hands over it.

Time opened Warriors' bag a little more to fit the scarf, not wanting it to get ruined. There really was no other place for it, other than someone's hands or Warriors' neck. The bag was crammed full of things, and even though there was so much, it was neat and tidy.

Time pulled out a book, hoping taking it and putting it somewhere else would make room for the scarf. He caught a glimpse of the cover.

Old and worn, this was the book that Warriors had used to teach both Wind and Time how to read and write.

Time's eyes immediately teared, and he held it with a gentle grip. Why did Wars still have this old thing? At the bottom, in Warriors' scraggly handwriting - not neat like he would for war papers - were the words "The Good Ones".

Good what, exactly? Time opened the book, seeing the simple, childish shapes and letters. He smiled, and turned to a dog-eared page.

Oh.

So this was what he meant by the good ones.

The good memories, of the war. There were pages taped over pages and scribbles and drawings. Many of them were Time's own, when he'd barely known how to hold a pencil. Some of them were Wind's, when he was older, of Wars, of Mask, of the seagulls and the flowers and the things that reminded him of family. Of home. Some of them were Warriors', of a sleeping Mask and Wind, of Proxi, of Artemis. Pages of Wind learning how to spell. Pages of Mask learning how to draw a cat that didn't look like triangles.

Time didn't realize he was crying until a tear dropped onto a lovingly laminated page. He gently wiped it, then his own eyes. He tucked the book back where it belonged, in Warriors' pack. The scarf could be held. It didn't need to get shoved in here, unorganizing things Warriors clearly had in certain places. Time got up, zipping up the pack.

Time made his way over to Wind, who was folding up his bedroll.

"Here. Can you hold onto this?" Time asked, holding out the scarf. Wind's eyes widened. "Are you sure? I- I don't-" "It won't fit in his bag, and I won't have the hands to carry it. Please."

Wind took it in shaking hands and just sort of looked at it. He hadn't lived the war yet. This version of him was still fourteen, hadn't seen everything that he and Mask could get up to. Hadn't seen Warriors two years before now, commanding an army. But he'd naturally gravitated towards Warriors. It wasn't hard to see who had won his favor first.

Wind carefully wrapped the scarf around his neck, having to do it three times more so that it didn't touch the ground. "Thank you." He said quietly.

Time had already made his way back to Warriors. It hurt to see just how thin and weak Warriors had gotten. How had Time not noticed? How did he let it get this bad?

Time carefully helped Warriors out of his bedroll, and moved him to lean against a tree. He was so out of it, he almost looked like a doll. Limp and fragile. Time packed up the bedroll quickly, then scooped Warriors up gently, like a child. Warriors' head was easily pillowed against Time's chest, and he seemed to cling to the cold, hard armor.

He held Warriors while everyone waited for Wild and Hyrule to return. It didn't take long, maybe four more minutes. Wild's face was muddy and Hyrule's hands were scraped.

"We didn't find many. They gave us a run for our rupees trying to catch them. We only got three." Hyrule's voice was slightly breathless.

Five fairies total. Maybe fifteen hours to get Wars to the spring, if his cycle of decline stayed the same. Time nodded. "You did what you could. Keep them close. Let's be off."

XXX

Warriors' cycle of decline did seem to stay consistent, even three hours later. One more fairy down. Twilight was heavily skeptical about reaching Ordon in time. Even with the brisk pace they'd set, it was hard to keep it.

There was no warning when Warriors started to seize, jolting Time out of the half-aware state he'd been in. It had been a frantic rush to get him on his side and stay near him, fairies at the ready if they were needed.

That was thirty minutes ago. Currently, they were surrounded.

Wolfos, and lots of them. Not to mention the lizalfos. Legend tossed Twilight one of his fire rods, and drew his sword. Hyrule stayed near Time, ready to heal. He'd never been a fighter. He would, if needed. But he would heal, before he fought. Time gritted his teeth.

They didn't have the time for this. Wild climbed a tree and readied his bow, and started letting ice arrows fly. Wind was fighting, Sky was fighting, Four was fighting, they were all around, getting rid of the enemies.

Time was standing there, doing nothing.

Time gently set Warriors down near Hyrule, but before he could take his hands away, Twilight put a hand on his shoulder. "Let's go. Pick him back up, we can't afford to fight here. Th' others'll stay back and fight them off. We've gotta get him to th' spring." Time looked at his boys, his brothers. He didn't want to leave them to their own devices, what if they needed him? A shiver wracked Warriors' body, making Time look down. This brother needed him more than the others did.

"Alright. Let's go." Time whispered. He scooped Warriors back up, and with Twilight at his side, they bolted from the battlefield.

XXX

One fairy. They had one more left and they were several hours away from the spring. Running for so long was making Twilight wheeze, and Time had reluctantly made them take a break. Chest heaving, Time put his head in his hands and cried. They wouldn't make it to the spring in time, he just knew it. No matter how they rushed and ran, they wouldn't make it.

Time had failed.

Worst of all, he'd failed his brother. Someone who took care of him, who loved him, who taught him that all life was to be cherished. And Time couldn't even repay him the same favor. Warriors would be dead, by the next sunrise. Time would never hear his laugh, his teases, his advice, his comforting voice ever again. Time would never be able to forgive himself.

Twilight looked down at his hands. Eight hours, that's all they needed. They only had about three. They wouldn't make it. No amount of praying to Hylia to save Warriors would help. They just wouldn't make it.

Time had himself convinced of that fact, when Twilight scooped Warriors back up. He'd given up. They'd never reach the spring in time. He kept chasing his thoughts in circles, while Twilight watched him. What were they going to do? XXX

holy shit the people who reblogged this, that messaged me, that read this, holy shit. You guys are amazing! This part two is for all you guys because WOW. I didn't think it'd be received with so much enthusiasm! But guess what? I'm gonna have to make a part three >:)

@rrainydaydreams, @rebornofstars I thought you guys would like to know :)

[666writingcafe]

Rumors About Fairy Rings

Simeon

Upon hearing that Barbatos was currently staying at Serenity Manor, Luke practically begged for us to go see him. Of course, he'll deny it if anyone asks him, but that doesn't change the fact that he wanted to spend some time with the demon butler.

He was less keen when he heard why Barbatos was visiting, however.

"I don't like seeing a Devildom corporation making inroads into the human world like this," he told me as we were heading over to the Manor. "I'm afraid I'll wake up one day to find that the Devildom has taken over."

It's difficult to explain things to Luke sometimes. I can't get him to understand that both the Celestial Realm and the Devildom are seeking an amicable relationship with the human world. After all this time, he still thinks that demons are evil and only wish to tarnish souls. I was hoping that maybe by accompanying me, his opinion would have softened a bit.

Perhaps that was all in vain.

"I took the liberty of brewing some fairy ring tea," Barbatos explains as he pours the drink into small cups. Luke's eyes widen, as do Mammon's. I'm not sure why he's here, to be honest. I mean, I know he lives here, but surely he'd rather be doing something else instead of having tea with us.

"What's so special about a fairy ring?" MC asks, nonchalantly grabbing a cup and sitting down next to me. "It's just a bunch of mushrooms that grow in a circle." Barbatos smiles fondly at MC.

"I can understand your lack of enthusiasm," he tells them. "Mushroom rings can be explained away scientifically. However, there's a second type of fairy ring that's composed of small, sparkling, golden-hued flowers. The tea is meant to be reminiscent of those flowers." I take the opportunity to take a sip. It tastes pleasant enough. Smells nice, too.

"Legend has it that the rings are formed when fairies dance together in a circle," Barbatos adds.

"I'd like to meet a fairy!" Luke exclaims.

"I'm afraid the likelihood of that happening is quite slim. It's said that they've gone extinct in the human world."

"Seriously?!" Mammon shouts. "They're extinct? That's ridiculous! You used to be able to find 'em everywhere!"

"And that was how many centuries ago?" MC retorts, making me stifle a laugh. I'm glad I wasn't drinking my tea in that moment, or I would have choked.

When Mammon speaks again, he's a lot more nervous. I've noticed MC has that effect on him.

"Well, wherever there's fairies, there's treasure! They go hand in hand! And all of it is stuff that goes for a lotta money in the Devildom!"

"You certainly are a fountain of knowledge when it comes to anything related to money." I certainly did not expect that level of sarcasm from Luke. Apparently, neither did MC, who looks at me in surprise. The best I can do is shrug. It's not like I know exactly what triggered that side of Luke.

"Of course, their extinction is merely a rumor," Barbatos continues. "There may very well be fairies that are living in secret here in the human world, and they may still be producing those rings." He pauses. "I've heard that the flowers can be used to create a special rare type of sweet treat."

Now he's gotten both Mammon and Luke hooked on the idea of finding a fairy ring. I can see it in their eyes. They're about ready to bounce off the walls with excitement.

Lucifer chooses that moment to walk over to us and grab a cup of tea. He goes to take a sip, but then stops when he notices the look on his brother's face.

"No," he simply states before bringing the cup to his lips.

"I haven't even asked you anything!" Mammon protests.

"You don't need to. I can tell you're up to no good."

"But I wanna try the magical treats!" Luke whines.

"Magical treats?" Lucifer repeats.

"And I want some sweet, sweet money!" Mammon yells.

I feel myself beginning to zone out. I just want to enjoy my tea in peace. Perhaps I'll take it outside on the patio. It'd be quieter there than in here.

"Simeon." MC's hushed voice brings me back to reality. "Is it just me, or is there electricity bouncing between the two of them?"

It takes me a moment to see what MC's talking about, but when I do, my stomach sinks. Yellow sparks are flying off Luke and Mammon as they argue with Lucifer about going out and searching for fairy rings.

I knew this was bound to happen eventually, but I wish it held off for a few more years. Luke's too young to understand what he's currently experiencing; plus, he'd freak out on me if I told him.

And he's already on the edge.

I stand up from my seat and whistle loudly, making everyone quiet down and focus on me. Looking directly at Lucifer, I ask him,

"Would you allow them to hunt for fairy rings if MC and I accompanied them?"

Can you hear me?

Once upon a time, the two of us could communicate telepathically. All seraphim have this ability. Hopefully, the connection is still there, because I don't want anyone overhearing our conversation.

Lucifer subtly nods his head, allowing me to continue.

Luke's feeding off Mammon's greed. If you keep pushing the issue, he will become destructive, and I'm in enough trouble as it is.

His face softens. Our friendship may be a distant memory at this point, but it's comforting to know that he still cares about me.

"As long as you can keep them reigned in, then I don't see the harm."

Mammon and Luke cheer and give each other a high-five as Barbatos tells them to bring him back a few flowers so that he can brew them a pot of real fairy ring tea. MC, on the other hand, is looking rather confused as they keep glancing between Lucifer and me. I'm sure they'll be asking me questions later, and I'd be happy to answer any of them.

But we need to be alone first.

[glorious-sunset]

Reflections on Ep. 6 of LBFAD on rewatch

Arbiter Hall, Day 6: DongFang QingCang (DFQC) has discovered that the greenhouse flowers are connected to Xiao Lanhua’s (XLH) mood, thus, tending to her heart as well as her body are vital to her full recovery. As she waters her greenhouse that morning wearing the lavender gown he had created for her, he asks her what she likes and wants, that he would bring her anything within the three realms that she asked for. The only thing XLH can think of is that she wants her Da Qiang to be safe. Since their first night together, she had been in constant terror of him being discovered and executed, which had manifested as a terrifying nightmare. She offers to make his favourite food and fix the destiny leaf if he will turn himself in, thus sparing himself from execution for deserting. But as usual he just rolls his eyes.

DFQC needs the destiny leaf to be repaired, but XLH has not yet made a full recovery. To his surprise, he does not mind waiting another few days. Since XLH had discovered his sweet tooth on their second day together, she made pretty flower-shaped cakes for him every day in assorted flavours. He was, of course, used to the finest cuisine and pastries made by the best chefs across Cangyan Sea. But when he ate XLH’s flower cakes, she smiled and gazed at him fondly in a way nobody else ever had.

XLH was indeed very fond of Da Qiang, but never forgot that he was an escaped criminal who would one day be gone. She needed to pursue her dream to pass the fairies’ examination and work at Fountain Palace, so she told him that was the only other thing that she wanted. Sitting close to him, she felt comfortable enough to admit to him her secret crush on Changheng (CH). He looked away in annoyance as she praised CH but was gentle in his rebuke that CH did not deserve to be compared to the Moon Supreme. “There are a lot of beauties in the three realms” XLH told him earnestly. She still thought her heart belonged to CH, but wanted Da Qiang to be happy. With his looks, intellect and irresistible kindness, any woman would certainly be very lucky to have him.

“To benzuo, nobody in the three realms is as unique as Xiao Hua Yao” DFQC replied sourly. This little demon had cursed him and was the only one capable of repairing Lady Chidi’s destiny leaf. He had tried to lift the curse and fix the damned leaf himself without success. Yet, she was unique in other ways too. Unlike most celestials, she did not unthinkingly abide by the heavenly laws. She had not reported an escaped prisoner, and instead, had treated him with kindness.

XLH, caught off-guard by this seemingly adoring proclamation, tried not to lead him on. “The one I like is CH, not you,” she said as he looked hurt, “and I want CH to be by my side, not you!” As she leaves, DFQC considers what she says. XLH’s happiness and recovery are crucial to his goals, so perhaps he should give her what she wants…and pretend to be CH? CH is her dream lover, and he is now forced to consider what being a lover actually means. There are more than a few romance novels lying around Arbiter Hall, some raunchier than others…so this is why XLH hadn’t wanted to share his bed that first night. He wonders what it would be like to kiss her soft lips again…

Haishi: Dieyi has discovered the identity of the thief who stole Lady Chidi’s destiny leaf to be XLH! To avoid suspicion, Ronghao decides to kill her during the upcoming fairies’ examination and make it look like an accident.

Arbiter Hall, Day 7: XLH wakes naturally, still wearing her beloved lavender gown from Da Qiang, to find a grumpy CH seated close by her bedside peering at her intently. How long had he been there observing her and waiting for her to wake?! She can’t quite believe he came here “to be with her”, but when he states that “benzuo will stay by your side in this form from now on”, it all makes sense. A little relieved, she forces him to shed his disguise! The handsome CH in bland white robes morphs back into an infinitely more striking DFQC in bejewelled turquoise robes. He offers to tie up the real CH and bring him here if it will make XLH happy! :D Of course not! cries XLH, half afraid that he will actually do it. That would only put DFQC in danger (she believes) and protecting him is the most important thing to her.

Shuyu Forest: Supreme Liyuan finds his daughter Danyin overdoing her magic practice for the fairies’ examination, much to his displeasure. He has indulged her too much since the loss of his wife and other daughter. The foolish girl won’t give up her naïve fantasy that she can be with CH! He is terrified that she will follow in his footsteps and pursue a doomed relationship. If he himself hadn’t pursued his wife, who had been from the Moon Tribe and thus forbidden to him, she wouldn’t have ended up trying to flee from celestial soldiers while in the excruciating throes of childbirth. His heart ached when he thought of the suffering she had gone through due his selfish pursuit of her. He had no idea whether she was even alive, or what had become of their other daughter.

Arbiter Hall, Day 9: Over the past few days, DFQC had spent hours every day training XLH to improve her powers for the fairies' examination. But her progress has been slow. As she leaves after a training session, he complains to Shangque (SQ) that it is difficult to improve her cultivation. He never expected taking care of a plant would be more difficult than conquering the whole world! But surely there is no challenge that he cannot surmount? He will do whatever it takes to make XLH the happiest woman in the world! To aid her recovery (and since he shares her emotions, to make himself the happiest man in the world!) :D He has decided to be present at the exam to help her win first place.

Danyin arrives. XLH, concerned for DFQC’s safety, makes him conceal himself during her visit. Danyin is widely regarded as the most beautiful fairy in all of Shuiyuntian, and is intelligent and powerful, but DFQC only views her as a threat to his Xiao Hua Yao. He is immune to the charms of any woman apart from XLH, including the beautiful Xie Wanqing and Danyin. He loves XLH only because she loves him so much.

Danyin demands her destiny leaf to see if she can enter Fountain Palace (and have a future with CH). Be careful what you wish for Danyin! Danyin’s actions of damaging the Destiny tree open the Tianji mirror for her. To her shock, she sees XLH marrying her prince, CH, not once, but twice! She is unable to reconcile these visions with the timid and powerless cry-baby before her, and shoves XLH down violently. Once she has stormed off, DFQC gently helps XLH to her feet and smirks at the thought of being able to kill Danyin for her. But she quickly makes clear her preference for non-violence.

DFQC is confused – surely eliminating any potential threat would be the easiest option? He is angered by Danyin’s treatment of Xiao Hua Yao and doesn’t want to see a repeat of it at the exam tomorrow. Choosing non-violence is far more difficult and unnatural for him, but if it is what makes her happy, it is what he must do. From here on, he chooses to adhere to her wishes for non-violence even in situations where it would definitely be in the interests of the Moon Tribe to choose violence. As early as eps. 8 and 9, he places his love for XLH far higher among his values and priorities than his responsibilities towards the Moon Tribe, when he chooses not to kill CH and not to kill the High Council of Shuiyuntian in these respective episodes.

Yujing, Day 10: XLH arrives for the fairies’ examination wearing the lavender gown DFQC created for good luck (minus a frilly neckline overlay). She hears rumours that CH has been in seclusion making an Immortal Pill to help a certain fairy with her examination. Some details are wrong, such as how long he was in seclusion and which fairy it was (they all think it was Danyin – did she spread these rumours herself?). Danyin arrives and regards XLH appraisingly. She has been thinking about it and wonders whether, somehow, XLH is the Goddess of Xishan who went missing and is actually CH’s fiancée? (she asks her father about this possibility in ep. 12).

Ronghao arrives late after setting up his assassination attempt on XLH and correctly guesses that CH’s secret crush is among the assembled fairies. Yunzhong carefully eavesdrops on their every exchange. He is not unsympathetic to CH’s plight. As a member of the ruling family, Yunzhong himself had to sacrifice the love of his life to fulfil his responsibilities. That is why he allowed CH to keep the handkerchief of his love as a memento, on the strict understanding that CH’s duties must always come first. CH’s engagement to the Goddess is vital to protecting the three realms from the ultimate evil Taisui, who if released, would consume everything in its terrifying wake.

As CH hands out Demon Pills, he is careful to avoid Danyin’s gaze, to her disappointment. For XLH, however, he tries to seek out her gaze, softly whispering “be careful”. As the judges watch the examination in Shuyu Forest through the Kuitian mirror, he is constantly worried for her safety and wishes to rush to her aid when a private fight breaks out, and when they see a giant Yingzhao possessed by the evil qi. As per usual, CH is unable to do these things, but XLH’s dark knight, DFQC, always appears by her side to protect her.

XLH has spent the last few days reading about the characteristics of various demons, and their strengths and weaknesses. She recognises that the Yingzhao which SQ placed in her path likes to eat the plant Hounds tongue, which she has carefully brought along. Yingzhao, appreciating her kindness and recognising the rare purity of her spirit, indicates that she should use her Demon Pill on him. He growls at the other fairies, however, when they show up to bully XLH. An invisible DFQC, showing amazing restraint, blasts the fairies away without singeing a single hair on their heads with his hellfire (he is not so gentle with Dieyi in ep. 7). XLH believes this feeble blast came from her and can’t believe how strong she has become! :D

DFQC leaves to investigate the evil qi he has sensed, asking SQ to guard XLH with his life. While he is away, the gentle Yingzhao becomes possessed by the evil qi, turning into a gigantic raging overpowered monster! SQ knocks Yingzhao away from XLH, but he then terrorises the other fairies. The kind and caring XLH cannot leave them in the interests of her own safety! She saves Danyin, and the fairies team up to bind Yingzhao with their powers. They can’t contain him for long, and XLH takes charge. Demonstrating natural leadership skills, she directs the fairies into a hollow tree, persuades them to give her their Demon Pills, and uses herself as a decoy to lure Yingzhao away! She cuts her wrist to attract Yingzhao’s attention, alerting DFQC, who suffers the same injury through the one-heart curse.

Full credit to @justarabidlittleyingzhao for Yunzhong's backstory headcanon!

Here is a link to my episode 7 review (contains spoilers). All of my LBFAD articles and episode reviews can be viewed with the tag #lbfad reflections (hyperlinked) and the table of contents to these is here.

[alinalioness]

The Nutcracker Balan and his soldiers Chapter 1: Before the new year.

(This idea appeared a long time ago. I also saw fan art where Balan was in the role of the Nutcracker. This is one of my favorite fairy tales)

Ah, New Year's Eve, everyone's favorite holiday, even in Highland Isle. Residents of the city prepare the holiday by decorating houses, making treats, and children write down a letter to Santa Claus. The thirteenth inhabitant, lioness Alina, ran out of the house to spend time on the street.

Alina: I like celebrating New Year's Eve, expecting surprises.

She decided to go outside with a fountain. She saw how everything was decorated in the lampposts, on the fountain. Later, she saw her best friends Leo, Emma, Max and Irina walking down the street. She walked up to them unnoticed and hugged them.

Alina: Hi!

Leo, Emma, Max and Irina: Hi Alina (Alina released them from their hugs).

Emma: We're going to Balan's theater to find out what he has planned.

Irina: Do you want to join us?

Alina: With pleasure.

Later, they noticed how many people approached the bulletin board. Five children joined in and saw the Christmas poster.

"Dear residents of Highland Isle"

I invite you tomorrow who wants to come to my theater for the Christmas tree. Let's celebrate Christmas together.

-Balan.

After that, the people were happy and left except for the five.

Leo: Great. Balan has planned how we will celebrate the holiday.

Emma: But just in case, let's test it.

The children went to the theater of their friend Maestro. When they ascended, they were amazed at the decorated theater. After walking through the corridors, they did not see Balan.

Max: There is no balance.

Alina: I think he's in chapter 8. Because it's winter there too.

They entered the world of wonders through the curtains from the hall, and saw that Tim's island was covered in snow, but it's strange that there are no Tims here. But they go to chapter 8.

Irina: Strangely, there are no tims here either.

Emma: Maybe it's a surprise.

After they ascended the stage of Iben, they descended onto the ice slide and noticed that there were snow castles in this place.

Leo: I don't remember that.

Alina: Look.

They noticed Balan standing behind them in front of him.

Leo, Emma, Max, Irina and Alina: Hi Balan.

Emma: What's going on here?

Balan:(He looked at them) Sure.

In response, he threw them a snow globe with a smile, but the children dodged.

Leo: Cleverly.

However, someone threw him a snowball and he looked around with the others. Tims appeared from two snow fences on opposite sides with snowballs and started throwing them at the children. The children happily started running away from the snowballs and throwing each other too. When Alina went up to one of the snow huts to hide, she saw that Yuri, Cass and Iben were standing in front of her with snowballs. They carefully threw them at her and laughed with her.

Alina: What's going on here?

Cass: We, along with the rest of our friends, costumes, tims and negatives staged a snowball fight.

Yuri: One against all or together aga-

She was prevented by a snowball that hit the wall. It turned out that Jose, Attilio and Bruce were in the other cabin on the opposite side.

Attilio: Hey girls! Aren't you bored there?!

Iben: Not at all!

The four girls responded by smiling and throwing snowballs at them. Suddenly, they cunningly made a hand-sized snowball and threw it there.

Jose: Oh-oh.

Bruce: Let's run.

Attilio: What?

The farmer and the old man hid, but the snowball hit Attilio. They continued to throw snowballs at each other.

Tornado:(Spying on Costumes Chapter 12) Yeah. Launch it.

The costumes of Chapter 1 were thrown at the costumes of Chapter 12 with snowballs. At the moment when Balan was throwing snowballs, he saw Lance slowly jumping over him on a Rari-rar.

Balan: I didn't know you were good at driving (He noticed that Lance had a box of snow) Rari-rars... (Snow fell on him from the box and he fell to the ground with snow) It's the trickiest thing I've ever seen... (He spotted his friends with snowballs aiming at him) Oops. (Everyone threw snowballs at him and he laughed and got out of the snow) It was fun. You've won this time.

Everyone came out of the snow houses.

Emma: It was a lot of fun.

Aero Acrobat: However, you need to play it in moderation.

Frost Fairy: Fortunately, the snow here is not like in reality.

Balan: Let's all relax together and have a snack in the warmth.

Others: Let's.

Everyone was relaxing in the hall decorated with New Year decorations. They were talking about tomorrow's party while eating New Year's snacks.

Emma: We saw your poster that you decided to invite everyone.

Balan: Yes, in this hall where we are, there will be a big Christmas tree And New Year's classical music will be played.

Alina: I love this atmosphere.

Cass: Oh, how we'll dance like at a ball (Eating gingerbread)

Balan: Not only the waltz, but also our dances, but calm and slow.

All: Ah.

Arctic Bix Fox: Looking forward to.

Leo: Is there anything else besides that?

Balan: Sure. We'll still play, sing songs and... fireworks. (The human characters became worried) Don't worry, it won't be a real fireworks display to make it safe.

Cal: If we talk about the ball, then we will dress up in the theater.

Balan: For your sake, of course, I will do it so that I don't have to wait. By the way, children, did you ask Santa Claus for anything?

Irina: To be honest, it's a secret.

Emoji: But we're so interested.

Olivia: It's okay if you tell everyone.

Leo: Well, I wanted to get headphones.

Emma: I got a dress for myself.

Yuri: I have glasses with little butterfly ornaments.

Haoyu: I wrote a book about two pilots.

Cass: I wanted a Hello Kitty cat costume for myself, but I also wanted Paula to get a collar for her.

Max: I wanted a T-shirt with my favorite football players.

Irina: I wanted a DIY kit.

Alina: And I... I didn't want anything.

Emma: How?

Leo: Haven't you thought of anything?

Alina: Previously, anything could come to mind, but now nothing.

Cass: Aline, maybe gifts are optional. The main thing is that you have a family and we are friends.

Balan: Right. Of course, it's strange to have a new year without gifts, but if that's what you want, we don't mind.

Alina: I understand. You are still the best for me, who made it clear to me that all people are different and follow their dreams.

Later, the human characters left the theater after saying goodbye to their magical friends.

Sicily: In my opinion, she might not have thought of something before that. I feel.

Lance: Yeah. But as they say, the main thing is friends and family.

Balan: What if we make such a gift?

In the Alina's House.

In an ordinary small house, Alina sat on the bed and watched the night sky.

Alina: Tomorrow is the new year and that fact may seem strange to everyone that I have a gift. But I don't care anymore. If only there were friends and family, as his friend was dear to the girl... (Falls asleep) nutcracker (She fell asleep).

To be continued...

[crimsonwolf715]

My Body is One Big Ache

Takes place sometime between getting King back and finding Gowther.)

“So the spell that hit you temporarily limits the effects of the Fountain of Youth,” King says sullenly. 

“What’s that supposed to mean?” Ban asks. 

“It means that nothing’s gonna kill you, but it’s not gonna completely get rid of the pain.” 

“Well that sucks,” Meliodas says. “Well, guess that means you’re stuck in the tavern tending to the guests.” 

“Not that you should ever be doing that,” Ban mutters. “But I’ll do that, Captain. How long will this last?” 

“Hopefully only for a couple of days. I can’t be sure though.” 

“Great, he’s unsure.” 

“Shut up, Ban! At least I know what’s going on.” 

“Fair enough.” 

After Ban makes everyone breakfast and Diane once again complaining that she can’t eat inside with everyone, Meliodas gets up. 

“Well, we’re going out for supplies now!” Meliodas calls out. “You and King behave, Ban! And make sure to treat the customers well!” 

Ban waves his hand dismissively at Meliodas as he leaves with Elizabeth and Hawk. 

“Bye, Sir Ban! Bye, Sir King!” Elizabeth says. 

“Bye, Elizabeth!” King calls back. 

“Bye, Princess!” Ban shouts. “Don’t have too much fun while you’re gone!” 

King facepalms and Ban laughs. 

Customers start rolling in and King does all of the interacting with them since Ban absolutely hates doing that. King seems to be having a fine time, so Ban doesn’t worry about it. He burns himself twice and now his hands ache. It quiets down after three hours, so Ban comes out from the kitchen. 

“They were weird,” King says. “The ones that sat at the counter and the ones that talked to the people at the counter.” 

Ban shrugs. “People are weird. Were they rude to you?” 

“No, not really.” 

Ban sits down. “Then it’s not a problem.” 

“I feel like it is. They were talking about somebody from another kingdom and not in a good way. What if they’re gonna hurt someone?” 

“Not our problem,” Ban says as he grabs a drink. 

After a few minutes of arguing about Ban drinking on the job, they hear a window shatter. Ban puts the drink down and pokes his head into the kitchen. 

“There’s a rock in the kitchen.” 

King and Ban head outside to see a mob gathering outside. 

“What is going on?” Ban asks. 

King turns around and Ban glances in the direction. People are blocking the doorway. The townspeople start throwing things at Ban and King, who just have to take the onslaught since they are not allowed to get caught and can’t go back inside. A frying pan smacks Ban in the side of the head and he starts cursing under his breath. One smacks King in the forehead and Ban forces himself not to laugh as King stumbles back, his sacred treasure keeping him from falling. They’re shouting racist slurs as they throw things, but they’re not directed at fairies. 

“It’s for me?” Ban asks. “That’s new.” 

Since he was not paying enough attention, a knife finds its way into Ban’s side. Pain flashes through him, more than usual. Ban pulls it out and covers the spot with his hand. 

“King, I just got stabbed,” Ban whispers. 

Chastiefol floats over to cover him. King raises a hand to force them to stop and Ban grabs his wrist. 

“Not worth it,” Ban says. “Let them tire themselves out. That or you can force the people away from the door so we can go inside.” 

King turns and forces the people away from the door. The two go inside and lock the door. It takes a while, but the mob disperses. Ban sits down on the couch and leans his head back. 

“That was rough,” King says as he floats over on Chastiefol. 

“That’s an understatement,” Ban replies. “Like a major one.” 

King shrugs. 

“Ugh, this sucks. I hurt now.” 

“Yeah, that’s what normally happens when people throw blunt objects at you. Did the stab wound heal?” 

Ban pulls his jacket back. “Yeah, that’s a cute little pink rash.” 

“Rash?” King asks. 

“Yeah, just where the wound was. It’ll go away when my powers come back properly, hopefully,” Ban answers. 

“It should. Does it hurt?” 

Ban shakes his head. “Aches, just like everywhere else.” 

King nods, then the two settle into comfortable silence. Ban focuses on finding a position to sit in that isn’t uncomfortable while King just lazily floats around on Chastiefol. They stay like that for ten minutes until everyone returns home. 

“What are you two doing?” Meliodas asks. 

“Resting,” King answers. “You would not believe the afternoon we had. We got assaulted by the townspeople because they’re racist. And it wasn’t even at me. They thought Ban was from a different kingdom due to his appearance. Wait, is Diane back with you guys?” 

Meliodas nods. “She’s outside with Elizabeth.” 

King floats outside. 

“How’s being mostly normal been, Ban?” Meliodas asks. 

“I got hit in the head with a frying pan earlier, Captain,” Ban answers. “My body is literally one big ache.” 

“But nobody stabbed you.” 

Ban flashes back to the knife that got him earlier. He doesn’t wanna explain that nobody saw that he healed magically, so he decides to run with it. 

“Yeah. Positives.” 

Meliodas sits down next to Ban while Hawk heads into the kitchen with the supplies. “You get along with King?” 

Ban nods. “He was fine. He got hit with a pan too.” 

Ban and Meliodas share a laugh. 

“I’m glad that you two are getting along.” 

Ban shrugs. “If King wasn’t so hoity-toity, we’d get along better.” 

“I disagree. I think the hoity-toity is good for you. Keeps you mostly straight.” 

“You really think so?” 

Meliodas nods. 

“Eh, whatever you say, Captain. I’m gonna go to bed. See ya later.” 

Ban gets up and heads upstairs. Ban lays down and closes his eyes, determined to sleep off the ache. But the ache makes it hard to fall asleep. He hears the door open. 

“Ban, you asleep?” King asks. 

“Obviously not,” Ban answers, opening his eyes. “I’m not snoring.” 

“Fair.” 

King floats over to the bed and sits down on the edge. “Sorry about earlier.” 

“Don’t sweat it, King. Everyone’s racist.” 

“I just didn’t know if it would upset you.” 

“Nothing they’re gonna do is gonna upset me.” 

King nods. “Alright.” 

King floats over to his hammock and settles down. The two sit in comfortable silence until Ban finally dozes off.

[ariel-seagull-wings]

THE TALE OF A CRAB

@themousefromfantasyland @the-blue-fairie @princesssarisa @faintingheroine @autistic-prince-cinderella-deac @grimoireoffolkloreandfairytales @softlytowardthesun @thealmightyemprex @amalthea9 @professorlehnsherr-almashy @shelleythesapphic

(Brazilian Folktale Collected in Salvador by Edil Silva Costa)

Once upon, there was a woman who had two daughters, one named Maria and the other named Rosa. But she liked Rosa better and she didn't like Maria. Because of this, she enslaved Maria. Maria was the one who took care of all the housework; she washed dishes, did laundry, cooked. Maria did not go out, devoted to the housework.

In addition to doing the housework, there were the washing of the clothes: she used to go to the fountain every day with a huge bundle of dirty clothes and a small piece of soap. She had to bring clean clothes and wash them all with just this soap. One day, she went to the fountain crying, crying, crying, because it was difficult for her to bring clean clothes without soap and she was very sad, very tired of the life she was leading. When she arrived at the source, she found a little crab, who asked:

"Why are you crying?"

Because every day my mother sends me the fountain to wash this huge bundle of clothes with just this little piece of soap. Then the little crab said:

"Lay down there so you can rest and let me do the laundry." The little crab washed all the clothes, dried them, folded them, formed a bundle and sent them off. When Maria got home and her mother opened the bundle, she saw the clothes cleaner than on other days. The next day, she sent Rosa to watch over her sister. Maria went ahead with the bundle of clothes and Rosa followed. She saw that it was the little crab doing the laundry, she went back home and told her mother everything. Maria returned home with clean clothes again. When she handed it to her mother, she said:

"I already found out that you are not the one who does the laundry. Tomorrow you're going to bring this little crab, dead and treated, to make a moqueca* that we'll have for dinner." Maria cried, cried, cried, and couldn't sleep. The next day, she went to the fountain, still crying, and the little crab asked: "Maria, why are you crying?" Maria told about the orders she had received from her mother. Then the little crab said: "I'll wash your clothes, then you kill me, treat me and take me away. Only you're going to make the moqueca* and you're not going to eat it. At night, after everyone is asleep, you gather the pieces of my bark and bury them in front of the king's window." Maria followed the crab's advice, without stopping crying. She killed the little crab, treated its meat, prepared the moqueca* and served it to her mother and sister, but she didn't eat it herself. When everyone was asleep, she took the pieces of the crab's shell and buried them in front of the king's window. When the day dawned, in the king's window a beautiful flowering rose tree had been born. Impressed by the beauty and sudden appearance of the rose bush, the king went to try to pluck a flower with a pair of scissors. But when he approached, the rosebush disappeared. He returned to the palace, and looking at his window, he was surprised to see that the rosebush had reappeared. The next day, the king summoned all the people of the reign, promising a great prize to whoever managed to pick a rose flower. Many tried, but just like the king the day before, the rosebush disappeared when someone approached, and reappeared when the person moved away. When the last person present failed to pluck a flower, the king asked if everyone in the kingdom was present. People shouted:

"No! That woman's young daughter is missing." And they pointed to the mother of Maria and Rosa, who said: "Oh, she can't come because she doesn't have clean clothes to wear." But the king insisted on Maria's presence. Maria was brought into the palace, and the king handed her the scissors. When she approached, the rose bush remained in the same place in front of the king's window, without moving away, and Maria plucked a flower. As a prize, the king granted Maria the hand of her son, the Prince, in marriage, making Maria a wealthy princess. What about her mom and Rosa? The only thing left was for the mother to pass the household chores on to Rosa.

*Moqueca is a traditional brazilian fish seafood stew usually made with coconut milk and palm oil. There are also variations with salted red meat and eggs, and seasoning with urucum powder. For vegetarians, a good replacement for the fish, seafood, salted red meat and eggs are green jackfruit and plantanes.

[beezonia]

When Marion met Oritel

A little, Winx: The Magic Retold fic!

[not really any warnings just a bit of awkwardness]

You’d think she’d be able to control her magic better then this. She was the Crown Princess of Domino for dragons sake, Marion should be excelling above her peers!

Yet she’s not, the teen can’t really figure out why and it’s annoying her.

Alfea had brought most of her doubts to life and it hurt Marion to see that she fully didn’t believe in herself.

That’s why she’s alone, extra morning training so the fairy can finally get stronger. But actually she’s not alone, Marion can feel someone else’s presence in the back of her mind.

She chooses to ignore it because, why should she acknowledge it if they aren’t a threat to her.

The targets are set in front of her, all she has to do is set them on fire and some slow progress will be made.

So Marion continues to breathe in and out, concentrating her magic so it comes out in small bursts. The bright orange flames weave in and out of each other, slowly but surely reaching their target.

What she fails to consider is the sound of footsteps nearing her, another teen up at the early hours of dawn.

“Hello?”

Marion physically jumps, the large flames bursting from her hands towards the voice.

SHIT

The teen watches as the boy barely manages to dodge the burning flame.

He’s alive at least.

“I’m really sorry about that, didn’t mean to startle you.”

He’s scratching the back of his head, a sheepish smile on his face.

“It’s not your fault. I should have better control of my magic.”

A pause, Marion turns back towards the targets not wanting to dwell on the fact she nearly killed someone.

Gosh, Luna would have a field day with this if she had been there.

“You’re the Crown Princess of Domino, are you not?”

Her eyes narrow. She hates it when people stated the obvious, but at least he wasn’t treating her like glass.

“Yes. Now I’d rather you leave before I hurt you again.”

The boy sighs, he’s contemplating annoying her even more or just giving up. Most usually just give up, not wanting to deal with her cold attitude.

“I’m Oritel, it’s nice to meet you!”

Before Marion can stop it she realises there’s a small but visible smile on her face.

Which should not be there at all, yet she still humours him by introducing herself.

“Marion, but I’m sure you already knew that.”

Another, longer pause.

Marion goes back to channelling her magic and ignoring Oritel like her life depends on it. But wait, wasn’t he one of the Red Fountain students who were visiting?

Marion was sure she had seen him before when the fairies last visited.

“You’re a Specialist?”

Another pause, Ortiel seems to be trying to figure out what to say.

“Training to be one.”

Ahh yes now Marion remembers where she had seen him before!

He was the youngest son of the Steinhold family, a prominent name in the Domino royal court.

Marion remembers seeing him a few times at the council meetings her mother had forced her to sit in.

Another Dominon, how nice. Maybe she’d finally be able to talk to someone about her homeland for once!

The girl had just let Luna do all the talking about Solaria most of the time.

It’s silence that follows, Oritel watches intently as her flames weaves in and out of each other, reaching it’s target in record speed.

They do end up chatting every now and again, Oritel overshares about his Specialist friends whilst Marion just listens.

What else would you expect, they were teenagers for dragons sake.

“It was nice talking to you, I should get back to the dorm though the boys will be waiting for me!”

The Princess turns back to face him, while she was quite annoyed that Oritel had distracted her from practice, Marion had forgotten about her woes due to this.

She was extremely thankful that he had stumbled upon her when he did.

Marion would have gone into her usual cold state if not.

“Likewise, enjoy the rest of your stay here. Maybe you’d like to join me again?”

A wolffish grin appears on his face. He’s happy? Oh, was he just like the rest vying for her attention just for power? Or was Oritel a decent human being?

“I’d love to! Maybe you can show me some of your fairy tricks or something?”

Marion laughs, oh this was going to be fun!

“I’ll be here same time tomorrow, see you then.”

She waves him off, turning towards the northern entrance.

That’s how Marion met Oritel.