#he has a father/mentor figure and a magic amulet for a sister

[blueflyingturtleontheway]

Estewizard AU part 1

Divergence point

This story splits up right after Shuriki's attack at the palace. Esteban finds the Amulet moments before Alacazar and the royal wizard faced with this absolutely terrified teenage boy, that he knew and liked, logically concludes that the best course of action is to take him with when he fled.

He explains to Esteban that Elena was saved by the amulet and his grandparents and cousin were hidden by him and offers to do the same for him, but Esteban chooses to go with him and help him (arguing that Shuriki might go after him as the closest relative of the royal family and that he wants to help rescue his cousin). Alacazar, though with some reservations, agreed.

Their original plan was pretty easy. Since to release Elena back in Avalor, they'd need Shuriki's wand (and Alacazar knew he wouldn't win in a face off), they decided to go to another kingdom, to find a more powerful magic that would be able to free her. But when that first magic source failed, they went to yet another place and another, and another, and another...

As time passed, Esteban turned out to be a really apt student of the magical arts. Soon Alacazar started to consider him something of an apprentice and Esteban became fascinated with magic, learning both from him and from all the other magic users they met along the way. Even though his actual spells weren't the strongest, when it came to casting, he had a great mind for theory, could make accurate conclusions, guess at the unspoken rules.

And soon from master and apprentice their bond grew into something closer, something more familial. Alacazar who had to leave his daughter back in Avalor and Esteban who just lost almost his whole family, found comfort in each other that helped them go on even as their mission seemed more and more hopeless.

Of course it wasn't actually just the two of them, since Elena, although trapped in the Amulet, was there the whole time and they were perfectly aware of that. On top of figuring out how to get her out, Esteban was also developing ways to contact her. As Elena gained more control of the Amulet's magic, their relationship established as a trio, united by a mission to save their families and kingdom.

Travelling, learning, often fighting together obviously required a lot of trust. Their efforts could easily be folded if one of them was hiding a horrible secret...

[aspoonofsugar]

Wizards: “I can fix It”

Douxie’s catchphrase is “I can fix it” and I think it conveys an important theme (if not the main theme) of the spinoff series.

This is because this same concept appears over and over throughout the series, even if sometimes the words used are different:

These are just some of the occurrences where the motif of fixing/breaking appears. Let’s see what it means and how it is linked to what is probably the main theme of the whole franchise:

DOUXIE AND MERLIN: REDEMPTION FROM A SCORNED MENTOR

Douxie’s obsession with making things right has to do with his wish to win Merlin’s approval. He feels he has been failing for 900 years and he wants to finally prove to his mentor and father figure that he has grown. He can make things right now.

This is why the plot literally starts with Douxie failing to bring everyone to safety and ending up lost in time with the others. Since then, he has been trying to fix things. This idea evolves in not only going back to the future he left, but also into making a better future:

Douxie and the others try to fix the relationship between Morgana and Arthur, but this ends badly since not only Morgana dies, but also Excalibur is broken.

Douxie tries to fix things, to make them better, but the result is that Excalibur (aka the only weapon which can be used against Gunmar) is broken.

Here, we are introduced to a statement, which is the opposite of Douxie’s motto:

It is not by chance that Merlin is the one stating this because throughout the series he comes to embody this line of thought. Merlin never tries to fix what is broken if it means other things might get lost. He never risks anything to make things truly better, but fights to keep things from degenerating. For example, he loses Morgana, but does not try to save her. What he does is to try not to lose Douxie as well. In the time travel section, Merlin’s objective is not to make history better, but to make sure things go as they should. This means some things are lost, but also others are gained and safe.

This kind of behaviour works to keep the world balanced, but it does not solve the main conflict to the point that 900 years later things are still like they used to be in the past. The Order is still trying to destroy humanity. Morgana and Arthur are still not at peace. The world still needs a trollhunter and so on.

This is why it is symbolic that Merlin does not fix Excalibur, but Douxie does:

And he does so by doing things his way and not Merlin’s.

The time travel arc is solved because Douxie and Merlin work together. Merlin’s struggle to preserve history and Douxie’s one to make it better balance each other out and in the end they succeed in saving the future they all know.

That said, the difference in POVs between Merlin and Douxie is still there and it manifests when discussing Jim’s fate.

Merlin wants to sacrifice Jim for the greater good, but Douxie refuses and comes up with a plan to win everything. He wants to fix things completely and not to lose anything. The result is that he loses everything:

Merlin dies and Douxie is once again confronted with what his mentor told him in Camelot:

Some things just can’t be fixed and the fact that loss is gonna happen must be accepted. It is something at the root of life itself. Who refuses this truth is bound to stay a prisoner of the past.

ARTHUR AND THE ORDER: “OUR REDEMPTION”

Arthur talks about redemption twice, but the meaning behind the word changes each time. The first time, Arthur wants to find redemption by reconciling with his sister. The second time, he wants to destroy the world to make things right.

This is important for two reasons.

a) “Redemption” is just another word for “fixing it”. A redemption happens when a person makes a mistake and then fixes his mistake. This is why Douxie himself wants a “redemption from a scorned mentor”.

Douxie and Arthur even have an important scene where they discuss this topic:

In there Douxie inspires Arthur not to give up just because he made mistakes. He should instead try to make things right.

b) The different kinds of “redemption” the king mentions show the danger of embracing the mentality of “making things right” to an unhealthy degree:

After all, the Order and Arthur’s objective is “to fix the world”, but in order to do so they are ready to destroy humanity.

Why is their mentality wrong? Shouldn’t the idea of “fixing things” be a noble one? Sure, it might be difficult to succeed, but generally the attempt of mending a mistake is considered as positive, isn’t it?

The antagonists show that this is not always the case. As a matter of fact the will “to fix all mistakes” can lead to extreme standpoints and to a refusal to embrace change.

This is made clear by both Arthur and the Order.

When it comes to the Order, they are trying to bring the world back to how it used to be. Still, they refuse that things have changed and that they can’t go back. This is why they are symbolically trapped in a time loop first:

And then in an infinite series of doors:

It is because they refuse to go on.

The same can be said about Arthur:

He could never overcome the loss of his beloved and  ended up stuck in the past and unable to accept the future with its contradictions. This is why it is meaningful that he is killed by the remnants of Camelot (something broken, which can’t be fixed) and that he is told by Morgana that times have changed:

Let’s once again highlight here his foiling with Douxie. As a matter of fact Douxie too must accept the death of a loved one:

He is even symbolically asked to “break Merlin’s staff” to progress in his mission. Here, breaking the staff is functional to the plot, but it is also symbolic of Douxie’s grief and of him breaking free of his idea that he has to fix everything. Like Merlin said, not everything can be fixed.

Interestingly, Arthur’s grief is commented by the breaking/fixing motif as well. As a matter of fact Excalibur breaks when Morgana dies. In that situation, the sword breaking is symbolic of Arthur’s own heart and character breaking. He is supposed to be the chosen one, but he gave himself up to hate and lost everything:

Merlin: “I will repair Excalibur and perhaps mend out shattered hearts.”

In the past, Arthur is given a chance to fix his mistakes. Excalibur is fixed and he bonds with the trolls he had persecuted. However, in the end he becomes too broken to be fixed once again and he dies as a prisoner of his own shadows. All because he can’t accept his losses and his mistakes.

WIZARDS MAKE NO MISTAKES, HE MAKES UNEXPECTED POSSIBILITIES

So, not everything can be fixed, but at the same time it is necessary to try to make things better. How can one do so? The answer is given to us by Merlin.

Mistakes must be seen as new possibilities. Sometimes bad things happen, but they can still change a person’s life for the better, if the person is able to keep an open mind.

If the person keeps going, if they keep becoming they can embrace possibilities, which just were not there.

This is why it is not necessary to fix everything in the sense of bringing everything as it was. It is impossible and it is wrong. What a person can do is to make things better in a new way.

This is how Douxie tricks the Order:

The Heart of Avalon is not there anymore, which means they can’t go back in time to fix it. However, fragments of it are still there and they can be used to make something new:

I personally loved how the time-loop trick worked because it builds on what happened in D’Aja vu, when magic and technology were combined. It was a nice idea and very symbolic of what these two worlds (which are clearly linked) can obtain when they integrate.

In the end, Douxie does not fix everything. He gives the Seals away to save Nari and the others. The Order is still around waiting for their chance to strike. However, he still saved his friends.

The same can be said about the major subplots of the season. In the end Morgana and Arthur’s relationship was impossible to mendle. However, she still mendles her relationship with Merlin:

Moreover, Claire manages to save Jim. Not only that, but Jim comes back as a human. Even in that case, though, the trollhunter amulet is broken.

Still, this does not mean that everything is lost, but that there is room for new possibilities:

Being it Jim or someone else, a new hero will probably answer Excalibur’s call and end the conflict. Another person will keep on becoming.

MAGIC IS THE ART OF LIVING

This brings us to how the spinoff explores the idea of becoming, like the rest of the franchise does.

This idea is presented at the very beginning of the series, when Douxie is told by Merlin this:

Magic is the art of living and living is different than simply existing. Living means existing in an active way.

It means to make good use of the chances you are given:

It means not to run away from who you are:

You can and must do it both if you are “remarkable”:

And if you are “nobody”:

This is because it does not matter who you are in present, but who you can become:

Once again the foiling between Douxie and Arthur brings the point home.

Arthur is the chosen one, while Douxie is nobody:

Still, Arthur is the series main antagonist, while Douxie is the main hero. This is because they have decided to become different people:

This is also why “every life is precious”. It is because every individual can become something amazing:

Still, to do so, they must accept change, face fear and find a place of belonging:

[writings-of-a-daphodil]

Fire Keeper: Chapter 20

Douxie x fem reader

Masterlist in Bio!

Series Summary: You are Jim’s older sister who is taking a break from college and has moved back home to Arcadia. You end up joining Jim and his friends on their adventures.

Chapter 20 summary: Battle of Killahead time.

Douxie made sure to heal your hand before you arrived to see the trolls. You supposed he wanted to make a good impression on your brother and you having your hand burned wouldn’t help him.

You went through Claire’s shadow portal and stepped into a stone cave. Jim and Callista were there and so was...Vendel. You froze in the middle of the portal and Douxie bumped into you as he came through.

“What’s wrong? Douxie asked, half leading you half carrying you away from the portal.

“That’s Vendel,” you whispered, tears already pricking your eyes.

You didn’t have the time to explain more as Claire popped in. “Hey, that's my boyfriend you're operating on!”

Vendel jumped “Oh! Humans! Sound the alarm!”

You heard a faint swoosh as Arthur came through the portal. “Hold! Please, Vendel of Dwoza. I humble myself before you. Camelot needs your help.”

“And why should we help Camelot?” Vendel asked, side eyeing you as tears rolled down your face. They weren’t tears of sadness or joy at seeing himd, you weren’t really feeling any exact emotions, you were just overwhelmed. Seeing your late mentor in the past could do that to you.

“-Camelot has been devastated,” Arthur was saying and you realized you had zoned out, just staring at Vendel through your tears.

Vendel sighed “Perhaps we could talk about this in a more private setting?”

“Of course,” Arthur said and Vendel led him away. You followed them out into a bigger room where Vendel and Arthur stood by a wall to discuss while a ring of knights guarded them. It made sense to have guards, but unfortunately they weren’t just guarding, they were keeping you and your friends from hearing the conversation.

Douxie kept his arm wrapped around your shoulder in silent support as you tried to listen.

Gumar the Black's swarm of Gumm-Gumms are ready to strike. The monsters seek vengeance on both our kind,” Arthur pointed out.

“And after all you've done, you expect us trolls to fight in this war for you?” Vendel asked, jabbing a figure at Arthur.

Arthur shook his head. “No, not for me; with me, as equals.”

“Glorkus me!”

“I vow, if we win this war, we shall live in peace.”

“Gumm-Gumm's are terrifying warriors while we are but humble gravel miners. How do you expect us to ever defeat Gunmar?”

“We will give you a secret weapon,” Arthur said.

Jim came up behind you. “You really think they can work this out?”

You and Douxie turned to face him. “They have to, or everyone in Camelot and Dwoza are doomed.”

“Then so is saving history. Great,” Claire grumbled.

“I assure you, all will be fine once I've completed my amulet,” Merlin promised as he walked over to your little huddle. “So, this is the once and future Trollhunter I've heard of. May I have a word, alone?”

Jim shrugged. “Um, sure. Be right back.”

You let go of Douxie to give him a quick hug. “I’ve missed you.”

“I’ve missed you too, and it seems that there are some things I missed out on,” Jim said, looking at Douxie.

“I’ll explain everything later,” you promised as Jim walked away. You moved back over to Douxie, but decided to face away from Arthur and Vendel. Everytime you looked at your old mentor all you felt was a heavy crushing sensation in your heart and lungs. It felt like you couldn’t breath at times.

You had lost Vendel in such a horrible way and at such a horrible time. It killed you inside that you couldn’t warn him of Usurna’s treachery without fear of messing up history.

You recalled when you had first met him, you had snapped at him when he didn’t believe your brother would be a good Trollhunter and after you had calmed a little he had offered an apprenticeship to you. You hadn’t been onboard with having Véndel as your teacher, but he grew on you, the two of you had just gotten off on the wrong foot. And from there he grew into a father figure for you, just as Blinky had for Jim. He had always been a silent supporter of yours, encouraging you in your practice of magic.

You were once again snapped out of your musings by Claire. “I think they’re done talking, we should go discuss what’s gonna happen next,” she suggested and the four of you walked over there. “Hey, is everything okay? What are you talking about?”

Jim glanced nervously and guiltlily between you and Claire. “Oh, um... nothing. Just Merlin prepping me for the trip home.”

Douxie smiled. “Wait, wait, wait, you finally finished the Heart of Avalon? It's working?”

Merlin nodded “Indeed. But first, we must survive the battle to come.”

“Wizard,” Arthur called, interrupting any further conversation. “We've reached an agreement. Now you must convince the crowd.”

You and your friends stayed on the ground while Arthur and Merlin went up to a rock balcony that looked over an area of Dwoza. It was interesting how much cozier it was here than in the other Trollmarkets which were much more open concept. You would have enjoyed exploring it more had you not had other more important things to do.

“Trolls of Dwoza, hear us now!” Vendel called.

Arthur cleared his throat. “As we speak, death comes for us all. But we bring an offer of hope.”

Douxie grinned at you and opened the time map. “Here comes the light show.” A string of golden sparks flew out of it and around the room before converging into a bright ball. The ball glowed brighter before becoming a large projection of the amulet. It flew across the room where another projection appeared, showing Killahead Bridge. The Amulet found its place on the bridge and a portal opened up, consuming projections of gumm-gumms.

“I've designed a grand weapon, an amulet which will choose the greatest warrior among you to banish the Gumm-Gumm menace from our realm and become the Trollhunter!” Merlin announced. You cringed when you saw how the crowd of trolls reacted to the name.

“The amulet's power will activate Killahead Bridge, once a border between our worlds, turning it into a magic prison for Gunmar and his brood, trapping them in the Darklands and ending this war!” Arthur explained, trying to call attention back to the main goal.

“I, Draal, Dwoza's strongest, shall be chosen for glory!” Your head snapped up when you heard that voice. You couldn’t believe Draal was there too. He seemed just like himself, trying to earn the amulet. You felt more tears pool in your eyes when you remembered what had happened to him. He was yet another person you could not warn of future events.

You glanced over at Claire and Jim and you saw that their eyes were misty too. Douxie came over and wrapped his arm around you again gently wiping away a tear that had slipped out. You smiled up at him and took a deep breath. You’d have to stay focused and fight to keep your time together in the future intact.

“The battle will not be easy. While the wizard builds this am-yoo-let, the king's men will train our bravest,” Vendel announced.

Lancelot stepped forward. “Indeed. I shall guide the-“

Steve jumped on Lancelots back, startling the knight and making you laugh to which Douxie responded by looking at you with pure adoration in his eyes. “Yeah! Knights Steve and Lance here to whip you big hosses into warriors! Krav Maga! Turtle stance! Whoo! Ah! Hee-yaw!” Steve yelled, earning more laughs and a few cringes from you and Douxie.

Arthur ignored Steve’s outburst. “Then we ride for Killahead to draw Gunmar out.”

With those final words everyone cheered.

~~~~

“Well, it seems we may have a shot at surviving this after all,” Archie said as you walked through a hallway.

“One shot is the best I can offer. When Killahead activates, it shall unleash a surge of magic across the realm,” Merlin explained coming up behind you.

“Just enough to power the Heart of Avalon for a trip through time!” Douxie exclaimed.

“But only one, which means everything must go according to my plan. Hisirdoux, with me. I need your assistance.”

Claire smiled as Merlin left. “At least we're reunited. We'll get through this... together. Come on, I wanna take you somewhere.”

“Uh, you two take a beat. Merlin and I have still got to actually finish the amulet all our hopes are riding on,” Douxie said going off after Merlin.

You hesitated, trying to decide which way to go. It didn’t seem like Merlin needed you and Jim and Claire were going on an impromptu date.

Douxie turned to look back at you. “Coming, love?”

“I’m actually gonna stay here and train. Good luck with the amulet,” you said and Douxie nodded.

“I’ll meet you when you're done.” He gave a wave goodbye and you went your separate ways.  

You made your way to the training grounds and looked for a sparring partner however all the trolls declined, so you went and found yourself a rock.

You hummed to yourself as you practiced your swordsmanship and spells. For a years worth of Magic practice you were quite good if you did say do yourself. You had learned so many new things and you were so proud of yourself.

You leapt into the air, using your magic to push you up and sent a fire spell down at the rock. The spell hit the rock and it lit up with magical flames.

You waved your arms, calling the orange fire back to you and got ready to attack in another way. However, a tap on your shoulder interrupted you. You jumped, startled and whirled around only to find Douxie there. Your eyes were immediately drawn to the staff he was holding.

“Hey there, darling. How’s practice going?” He asked, an excited smile on his face.

“‘How’s my practice going?’ You got your staff! That’s so cool! You totally deserve it.”

“I-yeah.” He looked away from you and you could see that he was still holding himself to impossible standards. You moved closer to him.

“Hey, don’t give me that look you are such a great wizard.”

He leaned down to kiss you. “I guess I’m pretty excited.”

“‘Pretty excited,’” you scoffed. “You had such a big smile on your face when you walked in here. You are way more than ‘pretty excited’.”

“Fine I’m really excited and I can’t wait to use it. It’s gonna be nuclear.”

“I bet.”

Your conversation was cut off from stretching into the topic of the battle when Archie called for you guys, “Merlin is ready to reveal the amulet!”

“Coming!” You called back. Douxie offered you his arm and you took it as you made your way to the cozy little meeting room.

“Today, the amulet will choose one of you to defend your people, to hunt these trolls who have betrayed your kind. You will no longer fear the daylight. You will wield it as the Trollhunter,” Merlin announced and you grinned, looking about for Deya.

Callista scoffed. “Let's see which one of your brown-snouters gets picked.”

Draal stepped forward. “It would be my honor.”

Douxie looked over to Merlin who nodded. “For the Glory of Merlin... awake.”

“Whoa, whoa!” Callista exclaimed as the Amulet flew around the room, from troll to troll. You watched as it eventually settled on her.

“Rise, Trollhunter... and become,” the amulet said.

“Uh, I think your amulet has the wrong troll,” Callista protested.

Merlin shook his head and walked over to her. “No, the amulet does not make mistakes. For whatever reason, it has chosen you. Speak the incantation. Find your purpose, the savior of our worlds.”

Callista’s eyes widened. “Me? I've never been chosen for anything.” She admired the amulet and began to read the inscription. “'For the Glory of-‘“

Draal cut her off and you frowned at him. “Bushigal! It chose Callista the Calamity? She's basically a fleshbag.”

“This is the humans' big plan. The only place that outsider will lead us is death!” Another troll called.

“Ignore them. Accept this honor,” Merlin pushed.

Callista stutumbled, backing away. “No, they're right, I'm not a hero. I'm not even good at being a troll.”

“Go on, say the words!” Merlin yelled as Callista ran off.

“Cal, wait!” Jim called.

Callista briefly turned back. “I... I can't do this!”

You and your friends went to run after her, but Vendel stepped in front of you. “Is this some sick human joke? I believe you fleshbags have done enough damage.”

“We're doomed!” A troll behind you cried.

“Gumm-Gumms are coming for us and we've wasted time with your silly games!” Draal growled.

“We must hide!” Another added.

“We all must fight as allies,” Merlin argued.

Vendel scooted. “You think just because your king gives us a shiny toy, you can buy our loyalty? Leave, and take your trinkets with you!”

“The amulet chose Callista?” Archie questioned as he flew to a ledge behind Claire. You and your friends had retreated to another room after the whole scene and you were worried that things might not turn out. You took a deep breath, trying not to panic.

“Whoa, whoa, whoa, wasn't Deya the first Trollhunter?” Claire asked and you nodded.

“She was, Deya the deliverer. But I never met any trolls named Deya here,” you explained.

“Either way, without one, Killahead will be a bloodbath,” Douxie pointed out.

“I think I know where Callista went. Claire?” Jim prompted and a portal opened, swallowing them.

“What about the king? Doesn't history need him at Killahead as well?” Archie questioned again. He was making a lot of good points.

Douxie nodded. “Don't worry, I'm on it.”

The two of you made your way to the surface and you looked for Arthur’s aura, you had a good idea of where to look though and you found him.

He was kneeling by the edge of the cliff where Morgana had died, his crown discarded behind him.

“You should talk to him, he might still want to arrest me,” you whispered to Douxie.

“I’m sure he’s forgotten all about that, but I guess it’s inspirational speech time,” he mumbled, walking out of the trees towards the king.

You watched with Archie, but Arthur didn’t seem to be getting cheered up.

“Maybe you should go help him?” Archie suggested and you nodded.

“Let’s hope I don’t get arrested.”

“Who are you, boy?” Arthur asked as you walked towards him.

“I am Hisir-I'm nobody.” He sighed. “History won't remember me. Stories won't be told about me, but I won't let that stop me from fighting for what is right. You are Arthur Pendragon. No matter what happens today, I know for a fact that your story will be told. But it's up to you what legacy you leave behind-- an epitaph... or a legend.”

“But who will stand with me?” Arthur asked.

“I will,” you spoke up, wrapping an arm around Douxie.

“Galahad, stands with his king!” Galahad yelled, coming up on a horse.

“I will stand with you!” Lancelot vowed.

“Sir Steve's got your back, King-o!”

“And I,” Douxie added.

“You'll need air support,” Archie called, flying around you and Douxie.

Arthur grined. “Then let Camelot be remembered as the warriors we were born.”

“Huzzah!” Everyone cheered. You looked over at the setting sun and sighed. You had read so much about the Battle of Killahead and now you were participating in it. You could only hope the outcome would be the same.

~~~~

You arrived at Killahead bridge just as the sun began to truly set. Half the clearing was shaded and the other half was light, but that wouldn’t last long. You summoned your sword and a few daggers and got ready to fight.

You stopped at the tree line and looked up to see Gunmar and his army gathered upon some rocks.

“One king cannot stand against an army, Arthur!” Gunmar taunted as Arthur stepped forward.

“It's a good thing he has an army!” Douxie countered as the rest of you came out of the trees.

“Perfect! More meat for my troops. Beserkers, tenderize them!” Gunmar roared. You watched in horror as Gunmar sent some of his soldiers to their deaths. The moved into balls and rolled down into the clearing, turning to stone once they got into the sun.

“Living cannonballs! Look alive!” Archie warned. You leapt into the air as one got near you. You looked down and winced as you saw soldiers get taken out.

“We must hold Killahead Bridge, no matter what nightmares Gunmar throws at us,” Merlin ordered.

“Arthur, I can smell your fear!” Gunmar called and you could tell that he was growing impatient.

“It's leaking out of his pantaloons!” A gumm-gumm joked and you rolled your eyes. Arthur’s aura was radiating fear, but his courage and determination almost covered it up.

Gunmar laughed. “Prepare to be crushed!”

“Knights of the Round Table, our battle cry will shake the heavens and awake the old gods to witness. Today, we say 'no more' to fear and darkness! For Camelot and glory!”

Douxie turned to you, Jim, and Claire. “I know the Trollhunter isn't here, but we are! Champions! And when I get us all home, brunch on me! For Camelot!”

“For Camelot!” You all echoed, getting ready to rush into battle.

“USA! US- uh...Cam-e-lot! Cam-e-lot!” Steve chanted.

“Hisirdoux, our fates may be uncertain, but there's one thing I am sure of—I chose you well.” Merlin gave a small smile and gently nudged Douxie.

You took a breath. “We’ve got this.”

Douxie looked at Merlin and then you, determination shined in his eyes and radiated off of his aura. “Let's show these blokes the power of wizards!”

“For Camelot!” Arthur cheered as the sun finally disappeared. You, your friends and the rest of the army charged down into the little valley and you immediately blasted two gumm-gumms, though two more took their places. It worried you that Gunmar had so many soldiers.

You leapt into the air and sent a fire spell down, cutting through the enemy lines.

“Heads up!” You heard Claire yell as she came through a portal and kicked away a gumm-gumm. The beast stumbled backwards and you sent a knife through it.

“Just in the nick of time,” Jim thanked.

Claire chuckled, but was cut short by Jim wincing. “We're getting through this... together.”

You sent a quick pain relief spell at Jim then you turned your attention away from them and towards Douxie. He and Archie were taking care of things, but as you landed another gumm-gumm came up from behind. You raced over to him and when the gumm-gumm swung your sword was there to meet him. Douxie quickly moved out of the way and you dropped your sword, sidestepped and blasted the brute in the back.

Douxie turned and blasted a gumm-gumm that ran at him and stabbed one next to it. Another leapt into the air, but before it could hurt either of you DOuxie created a blue beam that trapped it in midair. He killed it and did the same to two other gumm-gumms.

“Arch!” Douxie called when he caught more in his beam. Archie dove towards you and set fire to the beasts. “Ha, ha! Always hated those twits!”

“You’ve got to teach me that some time,” you said, leaping high into the air. You curved and dove face first towards the ground, letting gravity build your momentum. At the last second you twisted again, using magic to keep you from breaking anything, and sent a magic ripple across the ground, taking out about a dozen gumm-gumms. You swayed a bit, not expecting the toll that modified spell would take on you.

“You’ve got to teach me that,” Douxie mimicked and you smiled at him, sending daggers through the gumm-gumms that were right behind him.

“Fight on! The day isn't over yet!” Arthur encouraged. Suddenly you felt a very dark aura enter the battlefield and you looked upwards to see a portal open.

“Night has already fallen.” Morgana yelled. She raised her arms as she touched the ground. “Elemen-zath!”

A blast similar to the one you had just made, rippled through the air. “Demon witch!” Galahad cried.

Douxie looked to you. “Morgana's returned! She's enemy number one!”

“Go! We'll hold the bridge!” Jim said, looking at you.

“Hisirdoux, with me!”

You hesitated, looking between Jim and Douxie. You watched as Jim winced slightly as he moved his arm.

Douxie turned back and you made eye contact with him. “Stay with Jim!” Douxie said, giving you a quick hug.

“Stay safe,” you called back as he ran off towards Merlin. You hopped you had made the right decision as you rejoined the battle fighting alongside your brother.

“Rally, Knights of the Round! Humanity will not go quietly this day!” Arthur called. “With me! Drive them back!”

“Yeah! I ain't afraid of no creeps!” Steve cried charging back into battle.

You raced away from them as you saw a few knights almost get the better of Bular. Swords clanged as you raced past the battle, feet barely hitting the ground. When you arrived you jolted to a stop.

You could outright help Bular, you had to be sneaky. A gumm-gumm came up from behind you and you whirled to face it, an idea forming. It swung its sword at you and you created a shield to meet it. Normally the sword would have bounced harmlessly off the shield, but instead you sent yourself flying backwards, crashing into the knights that were fighting Bular. Honestly they shouldn’t have been standing so close together if they didn’t want to be used as bowling pins.

Bular roared, running off into the ranks to pick an easier fight. You contemplated going after him to make sure he didn’t die and history stayed the same, but you decided against it when you saw him join up with Gunmar.

You apologized to the soldiers and went off to help Jim and Claire fight.

You took down gumm-gumm after gumm-gumm, even trying out the spell you had seen Douxie do. Though the spell you used most was your fire spell, it seemed to do the most damage and could hurt more gumm-gumms.

A blast of Excalibur’s magic radiated through the battle ground and you used the excess to try your spell again. You flew into the air twisted and hit the ground again, sending off another strong blast. Your orange magic turned many gumm-gumms to stone, but there was always more, just as there had been when you were fighting Angor Rot and his golems.

Your celebration was cut short however when the ground shook and a wave of heat hit you.

“The Arcane Order? They're here?” Claire cried.

“We may have come to the end of days! Charge!” Galahad ordered and you had to admire his bravery. You ran to face them with the knights and when one sent a fire spell towards the knights you put up your arms. The force of the spell sent you backwards, but you held your ground. You grunted and sent the flames back at the order, careful not to hurt Nari. She may have been bad now, but you understood that in the future she changed.

More knights rushed to take on the order and you fell back to help Jim.

“Y/n, give me a boost!” Jim called. You sent a wave of Orange magic towards him and he leapt into the air, coming down behind a line of gumm-gumms. They didn’t even have time to react before Jim turned them to stone.

You took care of any behind him, sending daggers at them.

“Y/n!” Claire warned and you whirled around to see some of the monsters charging at you. Before you could react, Claire sent you through a portal and you landed on top of a gumm-gumm’s shoulders. You blasted his two friends and flipped off of him, twisting in the air and performing your spell. The blast radiated around you and you immediately moved to fight more.

You sent spell after spell, fighting alongside Claire and Jim and occasionally Steve. You all watched each other's backs. You mimicked the beam spell Douxie did earlier, turning a gumm-gumm to stone

Suddenly Morgana’s aura was back and you snapped around shocked to see her completely unharmed.

“Brother! We have some unresolved issues,” she hissed.

Arthur stumbled back. “Sister? You're alive? Stop this! Our blood is the same.”

Morgana called. “Is that so? Then let's spill some of yours and make sure!”

You raced to Arthur, ready to take on Morgana yourself. You didn’t know what had happened to Merlin, Douxie, and Archie, but it was the unknown that scared you.

You watched as a golden light brought Arthur to his knees. “You were right. It is like you said.” He dropped Excalibur and you got ready to shield him if necessary. “We are all the same. I have wronged you, as I have all creatures in my realm. I now fight to save them from the violence I have sown. This carnage, these deaths, we can end this.”

Morgana hesitated and you slowed to a stop too. “This-this is a lie. A trick!”

Arthur shook his head. “No, this is our redemption. I should have listened to you.”

While you had been ready to guard against Morgana, what you hadn’t anticipated was the arcane order to teleport in and end him.

“Brother! No!” Morgana cried.

“Merlin's puppet is gone. Go finish it! Show us your loyalty, Morgana!” The fiery one ordered and you tensed ready to fight Morgana.

Her hands glowed gold and a blast radiated through the air as she let out an anguished wail.

“What have you done with Douxie!?” You asked, send a blast towards her. It hit her, sending her backwards, but she didn’t fall.

“What does it matter?” She asked, sending a blast towards you. You leapt into the air, ready to dodge it and pounce on her, but when you hit the ground she had disappeared.

You looked around for her, but she was nowhere. Panic and fear for Douxie and Archie coursed through you as you made your way back to Claire and Jim at an inhuman speed.

You jumped into their battle and took down five gumm-gumms, your anger and fear giving you the power.

“My king!” You heard Galahad cry and you looked over to see Arthur was no longer giving off an aura.

“Their king is dead! Leave no survivors,” Gumar ordered.

With that the gumm-gumms seemed to get a burst of energy. They overtook you, Jim, and Claire, forcing you to your knees. You began to squirm and chant a spell, but a disgusting piece of gumm-gumm armor was shoved into your mouth. It didn’t stop you from trying though as one raised its sword to kill Jim.

You broke free and sent a blast at all of your captors, freeing you. More of the monsters came to take their place, but a horn sounded, distracting them. You looked over to see Callista.

“Hey, need some help?” She asked. “Because I brought some friends!”

“Yes! We are here to not run away!” You heard Blinky yell.

“Well said, brother!” Dictatious said.

“Let's show these glorkheads how a real troll fights! For the glory of Merlin, daylight is mine to command!”

You watched in awe as she charged. A blue glow erupted from the amulet, slightly blinding you as she ran into the valley. Her armor came onto her piece by piece as she took down gumm-gumms. She was amazing.

“Callista, glad you made it!” Jim said as you all fought some of the remaining beasts.

Callista turned to all of you after she finished. “It's Deya, actually. It always was.”

“Deya?” You all echoed. A smile lit up your face.

“History is on track!” You cheered, but your smile faded fast when you recalled all that had happened before Callista arrived.

You turned to Claire. “I need to find Douxie.”

“I’m on it.” A portal bloomed and you readied your sword. “Be careful, I’ll come and help soon.”

“I will, let’s just hope that they’re okay.” You took a shaky breath and jumped in.

You walked out of the portal only to be blasted with a golden beam sending you into a wall. Apparently Morgana had gone to finish her fight with the wizards and your boyfriend was okay.

With that thought you fell to the floor. The breath was knocked out of you and you laid there, trying to find the strength to get back up before Morgana realized there was another magic user in the room.

“She's too powerful! We have no choice but to seal her away!” Merlin yelled.

“I know. I'll try to buy some ti-“ Douxie was cut off and you felt heat radiate through the room.

Morgana laughed. “Oh, shame! Little Douxie finally gets his staff, just in time to die with it!”

You finally gathered the strength to get up, your fear for Douxie once again consuming you. THankfully you noticed him lying on the ground on the opposite side of the room. Merlin had pushed him out of the way.

You took some deep breaths and created a shield around yourself. You watched as the fire cleared away, revealing Merlin to be in chains. Morgana charged and began to fight Douxie. He met her every move, countering her, but you didn;t know how long he’d be able to hold her off.

“You can't even wield it! You should stick to your usual tricks.” Morgana taunted and you realized that while she was distracted by Douxie, you could go free Merlin.

“Use the power of your staff! Make it your own!” Merlin encouraged Douxie as you came up to him. You put a figure to your lips to quiet the old wizard as you worked to undo the chains.

You carefully peaked around him to watch the battle and you were rewarded with the sight of Douxie’s staff transforming into an electric guitar. He raised its tricking Morgana in the face.

The witch stumbled backwards. “What?!”

Douxie admired the guitar. “Bleeding balroths! This is nuclear!”

Morgana put a shocked hand to her face. “Did you just strike with a-a lute?”

Douxie shook his head. “Uh-uh-uh-uh. No, uh-uh. Spellcaster guitar, darling.” He strummed it. “Needs tuning, though.”

Merlin groaned. “I meant make it your own weapon!”

“Well, this is technically an 'axe',” Douxie joked, earning a silent chuckle from you. He began to play more.

“Hisirdoux, this is no time for dreadful music!” Merlin scolded.

“Dreadful?” Douxie scoffed.

“Absolutely infernal,” Morgana agreed and you were tempted to reveal yourself to compliment Douxie’s music, but you thought better of it. You’d make sure to do it later though.

“No worries, this is just the opening track!” Douxie said, playing louder.

“What do you hope to do? Blow out our eardrums?” Merlin asked and you whacked him.

“Stay quiet,” you hissed as you got to the last bit of chain. “You don’t want Morgana to know I’m here.

“Well, pardon me if this rock is too freakin' awesome for your medieval sensibilities!” Douxie countered and you laughed, forgetting you were supposed to be silent. Thankfully Merlin covered it with a cough.  

Morgana held up her staff. “Enough of your noise!”

Morgana sent a beam of golden magic at Douxie who tried to counter, but you could see him struggling. “And...nope. Plan B,” he yelped, jumping down.

As they fought Morgana overpowered him and you watched as Douxie fell. Morgana sent a blast at Douxie who shielded himself, but he was quickly thrown against the wall, barely able to keep himself safe.

“Do not fret, Merlin. You'll find a new apprentice to replace him. Are people not dispensable, after all?” Morgana taunted, but her celebration was premature. Archie soared towards her, blasting her with fire just as you freed Merlin. He called his staff to him and you held out your hands. You and Merlin sent blasts at Morgana, giving Douxie the time he needed.

“Archie! Arch, light me!” Douxie requested. He heard out his hands and blue fire swirled around the room, creating a ring around Morgana.

You got ready to join the fight, but the fire quickly faded to show Douxie hovering in the air with a frozen Morgana. “Hurry! I can't hold her that long!”

Merlin brought his staff down and a green symbol grew out from it, creating a circle. “You've lost yourself, Morgana! Bound to dark magic. I have no choice but to seal you away! Sigilia infractum!”

Suddenly you and Merlin were pushed back as Morgana broke Douxie’s hold. “Master!” Douxie cried, rushing to Merlin. You noticed he seemed to be bleeding shadows.

Merlin groaned. “She's too powerful! You have to finish this alone.”

Douxie nodded, standing up. He placed his own staff down and began to chant. “Sigilia infractum! Causera!”

“I will destroy you all! No matter what it takes, no matter where you go, I will end all that you love until you feel my agony!” Morgana vowed, sending a blast of magic at Douxie. You threw out your hands sending a shield to him, but before it could hit a shadow portal appeared consuming it.

“Hey! Hands off my teacher!” Claire yelled.

Morgana scowled. “I swear on your lives, I shall rise again!”

Claire scoffed. “Already seen it. You don't win. See you in 900 years!”

Douxie completed the spell and you ran over to hug him, but instead he just fell into your arms.

“Douxie!” You cried.

“Douxie! Are you okay?” Claire asked as Archie jumped onto him.

Douxie yelped as Archie started licking him. “Ugh! That's-that's disgusting!” You and Claire laughed at him.

“At least you’re safe.” You smiled.  

Douxie sighed. “Well...I think we just saved history.”

“And took down a ninth-level sorceress,” Archie added.  “Merlin would be proud.”

You all looked over to see the sleeping wizard. “Yeah, if he wasn't out cold,” Claire said.

~~~~

Now that the battle was over, it was time to get your affairs in order and go home. You had mostly enjoyed your time in Camelot, but you were definitely homesick and you really missed Mao.

“Everybody, ready yourselves. We don't have much time. I'll dial us in for when we left,” Douxie said as he stood at the helm of the castle.

“But what's gonna happen when we get there? The danger we escape, it'll be waiting for us. And Jim's still hurt,” Claire reminded.

“Yeah, we need a plan or something. Can you encase Jim in the gem like Merlin did?” You asked.

Douxie looked at you and Claire, pity shining in his eyes. “Claire, Y/n, about that... Jim is-“

“Ready to face the inevitable,” Jim interjected.

Douxie hesitated. “Jim, are you sure?”

“Jim?” You and Claire asked.

Jim sighed. “Claire, the shard in...There is no cure. That's what Merlin told me earlier.”

Claire took a step back. “That's crazy! We can find something! I'll learn a spell. We can stay here.”

Jim shook his head. “If we don't all go back right now, the future won't exist. And what kind of hero would I be if I sacrificed everyone else? Not to be ironic, but we're out of time.”

“No, no, no. We can’t be out of time, you’re only sixteen,” you protested.

“Douxie, tell him! We can fix this! You can fix this!” Claire cried.

Douxie looked away from you. “I'm sorry. He's right. We must go back now, but when we do, we'll find a way to reverse this. I promised I would return you home, and I am, but the portal can only stay open for a few moments. This is our one shot. Trust me.”

Jim shook his hand and you hugged your brother tightly. You weren’t ready to let him go, but you relented and joined Douxie.

“You said to make the tough calls, old man. I hope I'm doing the right thing,” he mumbled. He hit a switch on the time map and you watched as the rings around the Heart of Avalon shifted till they were aligned, creating a bright beam of light and your portal home.

Douxie helped you to the boat and you jumped on.

Claire helped Jim over. “There has to be another way. This isn't fair!”

Jim gave a sad smile. “That seems to be a reoccurring thing with us. You sure you wanna keep dating me?”

Claire mimicked his smile. “I'd date you for a hundred lifetimes, Jim Lake.”

A tear fell and Jim wiped it away. “Hey, we'll figure this out. We always find a way to save each other.”

You and Douxie walked over to the helm and he put his staff in. “It’s gonna be okay,” he promised you.

“Man Camelot was crazy! Why don’t they ever talk about that in the history books?” Steve asked, walking to the bow and earning a chuckle from you.

You gently leaned it to Douxie as you went through the portal. “My burden to bear,” he whispered.

You shook your head. “We’ve got this. We’ll find a way to make everything right.”

****

Yay, it's out! I can't believe after this there is only one more chapter........until the movie comea out, if course. After that I'll continue it. But stil, it's come a long way. Anyways, I hope y'all have a fantastic day/night and stay safe! Thanks for reading! I hope you like it and feel free to leave comments.

Also thank you to @super-nova-of-death @lillycore and @catuskat666 for helping me make a decision for were to take this chapter!

P.S. if you want to be on the taglist feel free to ask. I hope it works and please message me if it doesn’t.

[scribbles-by-kate]

Thoughts on 7.11 “Secret Garden”

I really liked this one. Yes, it was Zelena heavy, and she’s not at all my favourite character, but I’m definitely seeing a change in her from previous seasons. She’s still somewhat sarcastic and quippy, but she’s also matured from when we knew her before. It was interesting to watch this story play out.

Zelena and Robin - Zelena is a good mom. I don’t think that can be questioned. Ok, I hate how she got Robin, and I hate that that was never dealt with, but I accept that she loves her daughter. I mean, she was willing to die in her place, and she was worried about her getting into magic, so she does really care. Initially, when she had the baby, she seemed to view her as a way to get one up on Regina, but then she seemed to develop some maternal feeling. I felt like that was quite well handled at the time, so I’m glad to see that she has been a good mother to Robin. Robin is your typical teenage tearaway, and it was interesting to see Zelena’s reaction to her daughter choosing Gothel. Zelena clearly still has issues about not being chosen, which it will be interesting to see dealt with before the show ends, if they’re going to deal with it.

Robin is 18 - so, if she’s the same age as Gideon, then that means that, as Robin and Zelena arrive in EF2, Gideon is starting his studies at Elphame Academy and RumBelle are moving to the Edge of Realms. That’s dependant on time moving at the same speed for everyone (until RumBelle end up in a realm where we’re told time moves differently), so, really, the time line is not that wonky. No one looks their actual age, of course, but that’s probably to do with the fact that it would be expensive, and time consuming, to have to age everyone up for every episode. Let’s just go with the idea that magic keeps everyone young, or no one but the children age in the magical realms, and leave it at that.

Gothel is Mother Nature - or an iteration of her. Well, I suppose that was obvious. I had thought she might be another version of the Dark One, but I suppose she still could be. She does seem to be a villain anyway.

The Resurrection Amulet - this seems to be our Deus Ex Machina for the season. We’ve already seen it save Lucy. Perhaps it will be used to save Henry down the line as well. And I can guess who’d be putting their life on the line for him - the one person who’ll actually be happy to pass over to the other side. I am glad that they specified what exactly the amulet can be used for, because that cuts off any suggestion that it could be used to bring Robin, Bae, or Belle back. Not one of those people would be happy to have another person sacrificed for them anyway. Using the amulet to save Lucy only works because Tremaine did it willingly, and because Tremaine is responsible for her predicament anyway. I suspect we’re going to see that amulet again anyway. I wonder if the red stone is the Firefly Ruby that Tiana had, that Facilier ended up with…

We all experimented - um, Regina? Don’t you remember what you did in your experimental phase? Uh, you cast a curse? I’m not sure we want that for Robin, do we? Zelena’s quite right to be concerned about her daughter messing around with magic without someone to show her how to use it responsibly, and since that can’t be her, she’s worried. Interesting that Regina was kind of irresponsible about leaving her mother’s book with her niece. That strikes me less as cool aunt and more as irresponsible aunt who won’t have to deal with the consequences. Regina may be redeemed, but she’s not perfect.

Hook and Zelena - this was a fun dynamic. I liked them snarking at each other, but ultimately finding common ground.  I loved Hook’s speech about love making you fearless and encouraging Zelena to show Robin how much she means to her. Colin is really getting to act this season, now that he doesn’t have to play lovesick puppy any more. I’m sure he’s having a great time. Interesting to see Zelena compare herself to her father as well, and remembering his mistrust of magic. I suppose having magic didn’t really lead her to a good place, so I can understand her being worried about that happening to her daughter too. Robin seems more well adjusted than young Zelena was, though: young Zelena was kind of batshit crazy…

Rumple being as truthful with Rogers as he can be - I really, really love this! It’s so clever of him to come up with a Land Without Magic explanation for what’s going on that Rogers will understand. It works really well. He’s telling him the truth, essentially, just leaving the magical aspect out. I love him asking Rogers to trust him as well, but letting Rogers figure out the truth on his own. It just shows how patient Rumple has become. He’s wise enough to know that sometimes you have to let people come to you. And Rogers realises something isn’t right with Eloise, and he comes back, ready to trust his partner. This partnership is becoming so interesting. I really do hope they wake Hook up soon, though, because they’re kind of getting limited in how they can have these two characters interact. I’m surprised Rumple doesn’t try to wake Hook up, but perhaps you have to start to wake up on your own first, like Regina did. Alternatively, he could be trying to protect Rogers from Eloise, because once Hook wakes up, he’s going to be devastated and want to go after her.

Henry is a believer - I love that he asked to be tested too. He’s coming back to himself!

Tremaine and Drizella - Drizella finally got to give her mother a piece of her mind. Tremaine was kind of horrible to her this episode, asking for help, but belittling her at the same time. That was unkind. Very interesting to hear that the lanterns were Drizella’s idea. Why was Ana the one sending them up into the sky, though? Because Drizella was too young, maybe? I think Drizzy must have been about ten at that point, so really too young to be handling naked flame. It was odd that she wasn’t most receptive to her mother when she returned, but perhaps it was just that she was overwhelmed, or maybe shy.

Madame Leota - I don’t really know who this woman is. I’m not familiar with the Haunted Mansion, so her whole speech went over my head. I wonder if we’ll see her again.

Who was Gothel’s mentor? - Madame Leota or someone else? Interesting that Gothel sees herself in a mentor role to Ana. Not like she really cares all that much about her. I loved, in that scene at the table, how Gothel moved her hands around the table to calm Ana’s magic down. I’m not sure if that was in the script or an acting choice by Emma. If it was Emma, then it was a really good acting choice.

Zelena and Regina - I loved their little moment in the cellar and then her smashing the sign! Poor Regina was all miffed :) Interesting that they ran the bar together. I wouldn’t have guessed that. I’d thought maybe they were rivals or something. I really like Zelena’s empathy towards her sister, with Henry not remembering that Regina is his mother. Zelena feels things for other people now, where she didn’t before.

Tremaine wants the amulet to wake Lucy - she wants people to know she isn’t a monster either. It’s interesting that this is coming after the scene with Drizella, and the one where Ana learns what she did. Seems Tremaine is starting to question her own motives. I found it interesting that she and Regina were kind of compared there, and it’s interesting that Zelena and Regina are looking to use the amulet without paying the price. Tremaine is right to question them on that. Rumple would too. It’s like have they learned nothing about magic? It’s really naive of them to think they can get off that lightly anyway.

Why did Gothel want Ana? - She was looking for the Guardian, but was it for the Guardian’s purity of heart or was it for some other reason? And is the Guardian always meant to have magic? Because we didn’t see Tremaine with magic before she took the fairy’s wand. Does Gothel want the Guardian for the purpose that Rumple wants them, or for another reason? Because it seemed to me like she was looking for a powerful magical source so that she could drain it dry. She had Robin in her clutches, but Ana seems more powerful than Robin, so was she just looking for a powerful magic user, and that person happened to be the supposed Guardian, or was she looking for the Guardian for some purpose we don’t know yet? It’s just weird that she thought Tremaine might be the Guardian, but Tremaine didn’t have magic back then, but now Ana has magic and is supposedly the Guardian. It’s odd. The two don’t seem to fit, unless Ana is the Guardian, but Gothel is also draining her magic… I can’t figure it out anyway. It certainly seems she doesn’t have good intentions for Ana anyway.

Zelena getting her magic back - I actually don’t mind this. It’s not like she got it back an episode after losing it, which is what I actually thought would happen. They obviously decided she should be without it for a long while, and that she should be turning her life around in the meantime. On this show, too often, things are fixed too quickly, so I’m pleased they didn’t do that this time. Zelena’s sacrifice was made to stick for nearly twenty years. In that time, she seems to have become a better person. I like that. And I don’t mind Robin giving her her magic. It was her choice. It’ll probably be easier for Robin to find herself without having magic that she’s not able to use very well. I like Robin taking after her father.

Tremaine taking Drizella’s place - well, that’s the one good thing she’s done in her life. It doesn’t make her terrible deeds disappear, but at least she proved she loved Drizella. And it seems some of Rumple’s words to her stuck. He asked why she was trying to save one daughter instead of having a relationship with her living daughter, and it seems that some of that sunk in at the end. I thought Gabrielle was very good in that last scene. Poor Drizzy, though. Her ‘I don’t know’ was heartbreaking. I suspect we’re going to see a lot of confusion ahead for her. It’ll be interesting to see if they redeem her now, and if Regina will have any role in that.

Who poisoned the doctor? - That’s interesting. And why did he take the test results? That’s odd. I’m pretty sure it was a man who did it, because those were very big hands in those gloves… I didn’t think genetic tests like that came back with ‘confirmed parent’ on it? Wouldn’t it just have a percentage match? Like, a high percentage would strongly indicate that Henry and Jacinda were Lucy’s parents. I suppose they simplified it to make it clear to the audience that Henry is Lucy’s father, and not Nick.

[bubba532to]

Title: True Love   Series: Shifters in Love Release Date:  #AlreadyReleased Titles and Author's: Black Velvet - Elianne Adams The Mighty Hunter - Michelle M. Pillow Bake This! - Tasha Black Stormchild - Vivian Arend Called by the Bear Book 1 - V. Vaughn Seduction - Elle Thorne Love at First Site - Harmony Raines Protector Wolf - J. K. Harper Run Fur Love - Catherine Vale Pisces Phenomenon - Mandy M. Roth Embraced - C. E. Black Kiss Me Cowbear - Liv Brywood Bear’s Touch - Emma Asilyn Wolf Cry - Michele Bardsley Reviewer: Ingrid Stephanie Jordan #5Stars☆☆☆☆☆ •••••••••••••••••••••• Title: Black Velvet Author: Élianne Adams    This is another winner for Ms. Élianne oh yes we would all love to visit the dungeons of Black Velvet.      Joy Sutherland is a Wolf Shifter who has come to Timmins after her whole pack was anialated while she did errand for a sick friend, Joy was the only survivor. Trying very hard to fit into to the pack, but no one would come close to her they'd looked at the floor. Than she was asked to go to Black Velvet where in the dungeons she became a submissive to her Dom.      Warren was a Wolf Shifter Alpha of his Pack but seven months ago he found his mate since she was grieving he gave her some space. He has been very patient but since she joined the gym, she wanted to learn boxing. Warren could show here some moves, when the gloves come off he trades them for ropes and whips. Oh yes Master.... •••••••••••••••••••••• Title: Baked This   Series: 300 Moons Author: Tasha Black I never can say enough about this lady, she has the midas touch be it Paranormal or SciFi. Oh wait did you know she did SciFi now yep, Bond, check it out after you read this phenomenal Must Read Book. She never gets enough stars because #5Stars is a smidgen of what Ms. Tasha deserves. Oh before I forget in case you didn't know were back at Tarker's Hollow!      Tess Lane is an accident waiting to happen Witch who always wants to help and tinker around. Living on the mountain Tess decides to visit her sister for the Chrismas Holiday at Harkness Farms. Never being around anyone but her sisters and lately only herself coming to the a farm house full of kids and adults is terrifying so she tries to be one step ahead of them. If only she could use her magic she could fix some broken stuff, problem was the price of magic was very steep.      Will Harkness is a Lone Wolf Shifter and has always been, he loves working with little kids teaching them Martial Arts plus he's a waiter, his life is full except when he went home and saw the most beautiful women he's ever seen. So he decided to bake pies for Kate and Volunteer at the Fire House wow did he have any spare time? •••••••••••••••••••••• Title: Called by the Bear Book 1 Author: V. Vaughn This turns out to be quite a series .Two tattoo artists both have dreams of hulky men and have such amazing sex they actually really have an orgasm many times over. Both women realize they are being summoned but by who? To go where? Quiting there jobs they leave California heading east each feeling the pull. They were heading to Maine. When they get there things start to happen they were meant to be here and finding they're fated mates. •••••••••••••••••••••• Title:  Protector Wolf Series: Black Mesa Wolves Author: J.K. Harper      I really enjoyed this book it was great because it gave you a sense of the life in the den, that is a family, the togetherness, fighting, the love. Ms. Harper hits it right on the nail, she write a fantastic story.      Jace Canagan is a wolf shifter who lived with the Black Mesa Pack. But because of a devastating experience, Jace had a very troubled angry past. Taking years of wondering and his mentor Jace is back to be a Guardian for the Black Mesa Wolf Pack. While teaching some of his moves , Jace was literally bit on top of the Mating bug.      Caitlin Rendall is a techno geek she-wolf visiting her brothers pack and fixing there computers. Kinda like a vacation for her and the adorable twins. Never would she have believed she'd find her mate. •••••••••••••••••••••• Title: Running Fur Love Author: Catherine Vale      This author has well written books each page you turn your glued to your seat. You just can't wait till the end. Ironic though this book I've read it before but I think Catherine's books are from old books just adding new names but I love refreshing my memory.      Harley Myers owns the Bar Red Arrow, plus she's the president of the MC here in Montana. All her tires were tiger shifters also except she wasn't the shifter. She could spot them and smell trouble a mile away, and he was sitting at the end of her bar. Her half-brother, Duke was MIA again she was worried but this stranger intrigued her so Harley took him to her bed and sazaam life suddenly takes a new meaning. Until they smelt the smoke someone was burning her bar down.           Jericho Steele is a Tiger Shifter also he was an assassin, yeah he found his mark. She was behind the bar, something didn't feel right but he was paid to kill her by Morgan who is grieving for his brother who overdosed. He also happened to be Harley's ex boyfriend. Things took a big change when Harley takes him to her bed. Now they are looking for Duke. Will Duke come clean about Morgan's brother Jake? •••••••••••••••••••••• Title: Pisces Phenomenon  Zodiac Gatekeeper Book 1 Author: Mandy M. Roth      I think every book I read keeps getting better and better from Mandy Roth.      Sirius is from another realm he is one of the Gatekeepers he is also a police detective. They are trying to figure out what happened to the missing women. Phoebe works in the bar when she leaves the bar , she is attacked she fights but Sirius comes just in time to save her. This story packs a lot in the little time for this novella •••••••••••••••••••••• Title: Kiss Me Cowbear  Author: Liv Brywood      Curvy Bear Ranch Bed and Breakfast is taking many Cubs on a camping trip, while there parents stay at the B&B and rest. Is that even possible?      Jessica is a Black Bear Shifter with her five year old son Eddie whose father went to jail for embezzling a million dollars from his company’s investors. So her ex-husband is in prison and she's single, having a tuff time with her little cub but she keeps telling him how much he's loved but he still throws major temper tantrums and she's lost.      Clint is a Black Bear Shifter with his five year old daughter Hailey. His wife died of breast cancer three years ago and he's been grieving since, but then he saw Jessica and his bear says. MATE, of course he just thinks the Bear's crazy because he already had his mate and she died. He can't have another one can he? •••••••••••••••••••••• Title: Wolf Cry Author: Michele Bardsley      Elle Reddington dreams of wolves most of her life so she painted them and became famous and made lots of money painting her creatures but then something happened she couldn't paint no more, will she ever paint again? She was at the beach house, trying to paint the beautiful sky and he came to her. He was so mouth watering beautiful and they both knew what was going to happen next and it did. What will happen when Elle finds out what she truly is?      Xavier Skye is a Wolf Shifter, Alpha of the Anubinake Pack, he has known for a while Elle is his fated mate, he stayed away but now he must have her. But all is not well with his pack, he has a rogue who wants to be Alpha.Tarin and his followers are tearing up one by one the whole Anubinake Pack. Xavier needed to take care of him, he was not of Royal Blood like Xavier. Tanin wanted the Anubis Amulet, his mother used and taught him the black arts. He would use that to sacrifice Xavier blood on the Anubis Amulet will give Tanin all the power he needed. He be invincible. Can Xavier saved his fated mate and his pack? •••••••••••••••••••••• A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book and my comments here are my honest opinion.