#ironfeyxreader

[unknown-writez]

The Traveler and The Jester

Chapter Three: The Summer Court

Part six

With a warning glare to grimalkin puck turned into a raven and flew beyond the trees. As soon as he left I plopped down next to the cat starting to pick the blue flowers from the grass to make a necklace. Trying to keep myself busy so I wouldn’t linger on the argument my anger simmered then slowly dissipated “you know despite how annoyingly hateful I find robin sometimes I must admit he has good intentions. you should not stay mad at him.” Grimm said walking in front of me. “I know it’s just so frustrating being helpless here. I hate not being able to do anything.” I said, trying to explain my feelings “That’s understandable. humans do tend to get messy when they are not in control.” girmm said with a soft tone “but you must push aside your pride. although it doesn’t seem this way goodfellow is putting a lot on the line trying to help you and he doesn’t tend to defy Oberon for just anyone. The last time he did something like this it was for someone he loved. Unfortunately for him the feeling was not mutual. she was in love with his ex best friend. He lost them both and he has been alone ever since.” Gimm continued trying to enlighten me on pucks past. “That sounds like a bad ending to a story.” I responded feeling bad for puck “yes. That’s why he is so protective over you.” grim explained convincingly and I felt a prang of guilt for being so mean. “You know for being a cat you don’t act like it very much.” I teased a little prompting the cat to say “if I have learned anything over time it’s that no one is who they appear to be. take goodfellow for instance in the stories he is just a troublemaker who only cares for himself but in reality he has complex emotions that drive him to be good.” “your right.” I responded having learned that lesson many times in the past.

[unknown-writez]

The Traveler and The Jester

Chapter Three: The Summer Court

Part one

Only ever stopping at clear streams for water breaks. We spent the time sharing stories and laughing at jokes. mine full of family, secret Rendezvous on rooftops overlooking the city and his being stupid ideas full of mischief, pranks and friends. all of it making the time pass swiftly unnoticed. with the sky still full of stars and warm summer weather there was no indication of what time or day it was. It could have been minutes, hours or days and I wouldn’t know but with each story I found myself growing fonder of robin. our connection evolving into something I couldn’t quite place. It felt like I had known him my whole life despite the reality of the situation. abruptly puck went silent in the middle of a story about fighting a big frog like monster who resided in a muddy swamp and stopped walking holding his arm out to halt me in the process. a look of caution flashed on his face and his ears perked up as if straining to hear something. he then walked up to a nearby bush ahead of us crouching down and pushing it aside he looked through it then beckoned me to come over with his finger to his lip making a shh motion. walking over I kneeled next to him and peered out at what puck was looking at. In a wide field in front of us stood a group of 5 intimidating elvish looking men covered head to toe in green and gold metal armor holding large swords and daggers at their side riding on top of giant horses. “It's a hunt.” puck whispered “we must be closer to the court then I thought. stay here.” he finished picking up a stick next to him he then pushed past the bush going into the field with a big smile on his face the men on the horses noticing him right away. “Hello boys!” puck said, giving them a wave. as he approached them one of the men dismounted from his horse hand on sword ready to attack “come on!” puck started talking in a playful yet taunting manner “there’s no need for that! I don’t mean to cause any harm!” “We know who you are, goodfellow. Do not try anything.” the guard spoke back with authority “my reputation precedes me.” puck replied with his hands up in an innocent manner “I was just admiring your armor.” puck moved forward tapping his chest plate as he started to circle the man. “Besides, what are you guys doing out here anyway?” puck questioned the man who just stood still, his eyes trained on puck. The soldier following robins every move as if trying to anticipate and strategize what he would do next. “Oberon sent us out here on a mission. we’re on official court business.” the man answered in a deep voice “oh really! Did daddy buy you your new armor too?” puck taunted as he unbuckled his dagger Sheath from around the man's waist grabbing it quickly before the man could react. He swiftly put it behind his back, not stopping his circling. I watched as the dagger disappeared and reappeared in his hand before he brought it forward, opening it in front of the guy, the silver blade catching the light as it shone “I mean wow this thing must've cost a fortune.” Puck said laughing as he mocked the guy. quickly the man reached towards puck , snatching it out of his hands. With the man growing increasingly irritated, puck said “okay. Okay. I see you're not in the mood to play. I’ll just be off! see ya big man!” he taunted one last time before retreating back into the woods where I waited with a confused look on my face. “Why are you picking a fight with people we can’t afford to get mad?” I asked “because I needed this.” puck answered as he held out his hand “surprise!” with a poof of glitter the man’s dagger appeared once again. “for you in case you need it. even though nothing is going to happen to you on my watch. I'm going to protect you. no matter what.” puck said looking into my eyes a fire shining in his. “do you know how to use it?” puck asked as I took the leather sheath in my hands and buckled it around my waist. The golden handle decorated with vines on it now shining at my hip. “stick them with the pointy end.” I replied and puck laughed saying “that’s the gist of it!”

[unknown-writez]

✨The Traveler and The Jester ✨

Chapter one: Strange places and meetings

Part one

In the dream I could smell the earth tones of the forest. I could hear the trees groaning as they swayed and the animals in them cooing and chirping. I felt the cool breeze on my skin along with crunchy dried leaves under me as I laid eyes closed in the middle of a clearing. When I found myself ready to wake up I couldn’t shake the sensation of it all. opening my eyes slowly I was met with the color orange as bright autumn leaves came into view. confusion ranked my mind as I sat up the leaves sticking to my hair and clothes. looking around I noticed I was actually in a clearing. The forest surrounding me was created by all different types of tall trees: cedar, pine and some I didn’t know the names of. looking up I noticed the sunset colored sky littered with a thousand stars. It was all beautiful and peaceful that is it would be if I knew what was going on. How did I get here? Are there any woods even in my area? I live in the city. I asked myself questions in disbelief but no matter what I was still here in the middle of nowhere. a great caw coming from one of the trees broke my racing thoughts. turning towards it I stood up coming eye to eye with a big black raven perched on a branch in a not so far away tree. it’s dark green, almost black eyes twinkling with something I couldn’t quite put my finger on. Suddenly a cold gust of wind moved through the air and the weather started to change, the atmosphere growing darker. slowly from out of the woods fog started to seep into the clearing filling up the area till my feet were clouded from my vision the air turning damp with mist. Looking back at the large bird it suddenly took flight, its talons bare cawing as it headed straight towards my face. Its feathered wings licking my head barely missing me as I instinctively ducked not trying to get hit. at the last minute the bird flew upwards over my head quickly i shot my head back up and spun around trying to track the bird with my eyes but as the raven flew its flight pattern changed suddenly once again speeding downwards dramatically it headed straight for the ground till it disappeared into the fog. I had expected a crashing sound, a hurt caw anything but in the moment there was nothing but silence. confusion spread across my features and mind as I just stared in disbelief at the floor. I must be trippin ', I thought or maybe I’m still dreaming? raising my hand I brought it to my arm pitching myself hoping it would wake me up to no avail. nope. definitely not dreaming I confirmed in my head as I sighed giving into defeat and put my hands on my hips trying to come up with my next course of action. “You know most people don’t usually sleep in the middle of the woods.” a male voice said from behind me. In one swift movement I grabbed a stick nearby, turning to the person to whom the voice belonged. pointing it at them in a warning as my eyes started to investigate the guy a few yards away from me. He looked around my age, his lean muscular body a few inches taller than me with fiery red hair that was overgrown and stuck up in different directions. His pale skin was littered with freckles, he had sharp bone structure and pointy ears almost like an elf. his bright green animated eyes pouring into mine with excitement and curiosity flashing behind them. He was handsome in a mystical ethereal way. looking him up and down I noticed his weird attire. he wore green velvety pants with patchwork on it and a matching tunic that was laced up tied in the front with some brown rope. he had brown leather boots, some accessories and a matching brown leather belt with two holsters on it that carried two long glowing golden daggers that shined at his sides. Them being the last and most important thing I noticed.

[unknown-writez]

The Traveler and The Jester

Chapter Three: The Summer Court

Part five

Dropping my hand he turned to face me with a pissed expression on his face. “What the hell were you doing back there?! I mean were you even thinking?!” he asked, clearly fuming “Me!? What happened with you?! I was getting the key!” I said defensively, crossing my arms, anger building up inside me. “I” puck responded emphasizing the word “was saving your ass! you realized what could have happened to you?! Oberon takes what he wants! no one tells the king no!” he shouted at me “I wasn’t going to let that happen! I had everything in control! I know how to fight and I can take care of myself. I spent 20 years by myself doing it back at home in a city full of wackos, perverts, selfish creeps and just generally awful people. Besides, your little stunt didn’t seem that planned out. if you ask me I think you were just jealous!” I argued back “you can think whatever you want princess but here is a whole lot different then back where you came from! here they have magic! every immortal powerful being and thing wants to use you up and spit you out or worse just kill you for the fun of it and they could do it just by snapping their fingers! I’m protecting you! I don’t want to see you wind up dead!” he said, his fiery gaze burning me up balling up my fist I shouted in frustration saying “you don’t think I know that!? I knew the risk! I knew what the king wanted to do with me! I’m not naive! I made the choice to go through with it because it was the best option and guess what it worked. I had a plan. I could have gotten away from him on my own.” “Oh really sweetheart. Prove it. Come at me. I’ll even go easy on you and not use magic.” Puck said tauntingly with a come here jester making my blood boil even more. Without thinking, acting on anger I lunged forward trying to land a punch with my right arm only for puck to grab it before I could and shoot me forward past him as he smacked my ass before turning to face me with a smirk “So predictable you wouldn’t last a second without me.” He said mocking me as I faced him. With a scoff I quickly catapulted my body at his legs taking both of us down to the grassy forest floor and scrambled to get on top of him straddling his waist so he couldn’t get up while I unsheathed my dagger going to bring it up to his neck but mid air he grabbed the handle pushing it away as I struggled trying to win “Cocky words for a guy who just got tackled by a girl.” I taunted back through gritted teeth. Puck just chuckled like he was having fun bucking me forward with his hips, the action catching me off guard making my grip loosen just enough so he was able to overpower me twisting my hand with my dagger behind my back locking me in place. Pushing my own arm against my back he lowered me till my face was just inches away from him his hot breath uneven breath fanning me as for a few seconds he let us linger there my stomach doing flips as his lips almost brushed mine before he pushed us to the side making us roll over so he was now on top. Swiftly before I could move to fight back one of his hands grabbed my wrist tightly pinning my hands above my head while the other now held one of his golden daggers as it hovered a safe distance over my throat. Bending down he moved his lips to my ear saying “like I said you wouldn’t last a second.” Hearing him say that I gave into defeat the feeling of his words on my ear and face sending tingles down my spine. “stop your bickering. Either way you got the key. now we must move on and get to the maze before Oberon sends men after us.” a voice belonging to grim interrupted our fight and I looked to the side finding him sat down scratching his ear for a second. his yellow eyes squinted glaring at the both of us. “fine.” I responded rolling my eyes as robin got off me and we both stood up “what’s the fastest way to get there?” I asked “if I fly there and bring you to me we could be there in no time.” puck said crossing his arms “for once you have a good plan goodfellow.” grim purred with a smile “off you go now. don’t worry I will keep the girl company.” he finished

[unknown-writez]

The Traveler and The Jester

Chapter three: The Summer Court

Part four

“I must warn you sir I’m not the best dancer.” I said in an annoyingly innocent voice as we started waltzing. “think nothing of it. I have danced with far worse. So tell me how did you meet goodfellow?” He said intrigued by our relationship. “He has a cottage not far from where I was camping out. He graciously offered me a bed there.” I answered not exactly lying or telling the truth. “Hmm…” the king responded thoughtfully “he must like you. goodfellow doesn’t tend to be nice to just anyone.” “He has shown me nothing but kindness, your grace.” I said defending puck not being able to help the aggressive tone of my voice “I could be far kinder to you. if you wished to make the court your home instead.” he said back and I could see lust hiding behind his falsely kind deceiving eyes. Acting like the comment caught me off guard purposely I used the opportunity to mess up the dance. tripping on one of the steps of it my body collided with him. I took my hands away from him and pretended to steady myself with a hand against his chest and swiftly moved my other hand to his belt unnoticeably grabbing at the key. distracting him I said “I’m sorry! I’m so clumsy! I did try to warn you sir!” Looking up at him with big helpless doe eyes earning an amused chuckle from him. After I successfully nabbed the key quickly I put my hand back on his shoulder and in his other hand again with a smooth motion the key now hidden behind his back. Him not suspecting a single thing. “I would love that sir” I said trying to send a quick glance to puck over his shoulder as we started spinning again. Puck getting the memo moved out the corner of my eye and I noticed him poof into a bird flying overhead us. in a split second I swiftly tossed the key lightly into the air puck swooping in and catching it before it could fly off as I did. covering it up I pretended to move my hair away from my neck before placing my hand back on his shoulder as a predatory look came on his face, his eyes now glued to my neck and if I didn’t know men better I would have thought he wanted to kill and eat me. The music came to an end a second after that. letting go of my hand the king placed it with the other on my waist instead and I put my now free one on his other shoulder. capturing me in place his face scanned mine drawing closer as if to kiss me but before it could happen a bright light surrounded us and in a puff of glitter I was falling back down from the ceiling into the crowd puck in his raven form next to me shooting as fast as he could to the ground turning back into a human when he reached it just in time to catch me. “puck! what the hell happened!” I scolded and he just gave me a stare that had a mixture of jealousy and shock as if he didn’t mean to do it. putting me down and instead grabbing my hand the whole court was now staring at us aware of our tricks. quickly puck shoved his hand into his pocket grabbing the dice muttering “give us something good.” before throwing them on the ground. the dice shattering in a cloud of purple smoke. as they hit the tile floor suddenly loud music started sounding out throughout the whole castle. The song play that funky music by wild cherry playing along with flashing colored lights and confetti from the ceiling. All at once everyone except puck and I broke out in a synchronized disco dance with confused and fearful looks on their faces as they did the ridiculous moves. Not being able to hold it in I laughed uncontrollably as puck pulled me through the mess running towards the gate as the madness ensued. Once we got out of the castle, puck quickly ran into and through the woods dragging me with him stopping only when he thought we were safe.

[unknown-writez]

The Traveler and The Jester

Chapter three: The Summer Court

Part three

As we got closer to the throne room at the end of the hall it started to get louder and louder an more and more people, fey men and women, dryads, nymphs and all manner of magical beings populated the halls leading up to a big room. Around the area there were golden clothed tables full of different foods and wine lining the sides of the room. people were sitting in chairs at the tables talking to one another in loud voices. in the center of the space between them people waltzed on the ballroom floor having fun spinning and laughing to the fun classical music from a band that was playing in one of the corners of the room. at the end in the middle there stood a large golden throne in the shape of a sun atop a pedestal. people sat giggling and whispering to each other on the steps. in the throne sat a tall looking man in long dramatic green robes that had a brown leather belt around them. He had sharp features and long white hair and a golden antler crown on top of his head. “Oberon has to have the key either on or near him. we just have to sneak over there. get it and then get the hell out of here.” puck said, leaning towards me trying to rehearse his plan in my ear. “Robin goodfellow! Come forward!” a deep voice shouted over the crowd of people. one that could only belong to one man. Oberon. With an eye roll, puck grabbed my hand and the sea of people parted to make a path for us till we got close enough to talk regularly at the bottom of the steps, everyone minding their own business going back to normal once we did. “You're finally back, goodfellow.” the king spoke “you caused quite the ruckus last time you were here. I had to spend weeks fixing everything but I do suppose it is good to see you. things were getting stale here.” the king spoke in a bored tone “I’m glad to know I entertain you.” puck said politely but I could tell he did not like the man “who is your companion? I don’t believe I’ve had the pleasure of seeing her at court before.” Oberon asked and puck straightened up the slightest look of worry and panic in his eyes. his hand holding onto mine tighter. “this is fawn. she is a new summer fey. she’s been living out in the whylewoods by herself. it’s her first time being at court.” puck answered trying to sound convincing “I see… are you enjoying yourself my dear?” the king said, turning his gaze to me. his golden opalescent eyes searching mine, almost studying them for the truth “yes your grace.” I spoke back thinking about all the historical books and tv shows I used to watch about kings and queens. My favorite being the story of king Henry the eighth and his six wives. “Everything is so beautiful here. Thank you for having me.” I finished “you and the court have that in common.” he said back in a flirtatious tone making heat rise in my face, my cheeks now burning pink in embarrassment “would you care to dance.” he said in more of a demand than a question. standing up from his seat he walked down the steps to stand in front of us. As he did so his robes moved revealing an old rusted key with tiny dragonfly wings attached to his belt. Immediately my mind recognized that that had to be what we were looking for. glancing at puck I hinted to it with my eyes then turned back to Oberon, his hand now extended waiting for mine. putting my hand in his I responded with a fake smile “I would love too.” looking to puck he said “your dismissed.” who with an irritated and concerned look dropped my other hand that tried to hold me back from the king and stormed away to the outskirts near the edge of the dance floor where he stood arms crossed not talking to anyone pouting, his eyes never leaving me alone with man. Oberon smiled as he led me to the crowded center of the room. We turned towards each other, his other hand landing on my hip and I put one of mine on his shoulder. My head starting to devise a plan to get the key.

[unknown-writez]

The Traveler and The Jester

Chapter Three: The Summer Court

Part two

we better move before he finds out his dagger is a stick.” Both of us laughed with a smile on our faces and puck grabbed my hand and started running forward. the wind flowing through my hair as we grew farther away from the group of men. When we got to a safe distance puck stopped letting me catch my breath. “We are almost at the entrance. I’m going to go ahead and make sure nothing unexpected is waiting for us.” puck said I nodded and in a flash puck poofed into a raven flying up and over the trees out of my view. As I stood waiting for puck to return I felt the new weight of the dagger at my side. looking at it I took the handle into my hands, the metal cool to the touch. Curious I pulled it out and admired the blade twirling it in my hands. studying it I dragged my fingertips along the sharp edge and up to the point to feel how sharp it was. The answer was very. putting it back before I hurt myself I took a seat against a large tree trunk in the shade and closed my eyes drifting off. The light breeze hitting my face as I listened to the leaves moving and birds, or whatever lives in the whlyewoods, singing slowly drifting into a state of serenity. Suddenly through my half asleep peacefulness I felt the sensation of falling. Thinking I must have actually dozed off I quickly opened my eyes to stop it only to realize I wasn’t dreaming at all. Wind whipped passed me as I Free fell through the sky with no parachute. trees and flashes of color passing me by at high speeds. Panicking as I plummeted towards the ground I put my hands up and held back a scream bracing myself for impact as the grassy floor got closer and closer. At the last minute I decided to close my eyes, giving into my impending doom but instead of a painful landing I felt someone catch me. I landed abruptly into strong arms that held me with ease, the person busting into a fit of laughter. opening my eyes I met pucks green ones staring down at me. His face holding a shit eating grin “you… should have…seen your face!” puck said in between his chuckling. In response I gave him an irritated smack on the chest wiggling out of his grasp. “Please don’t be mad. It was way easier than having to go all the way back and walk the whole thing. Besides, we should take advantage of the deal. should we not?” puck finished saying convincingly as I rolled my eyes “I’m not gonna give you the satisfaction of saying your right but you do have a point.” I said back, turning a little my eyes landed on the impressively large copper colored castle in the distance, its large green gate open for people to come inside. The whole thing is like something out of a fantasy movie. “wow…” I reacted at the breathtaking view. puck turned around putting his arm around my shoulders “welcome to the summer court! follow my lead and this should be easy peasy.” he said before letting go of me walking towards the gate me following close behind as we entered. The floor of the castle was tiled in different glittering patterns of green, orange, teal, purple, and blue with golden suns on all of the sides. the cracks in between it all filled with gold. on the sides of the hall were big oak trees filled with green, orangish yellow and red leaves. Along the copper metallic walls were mass amounts of twisting vines and at the tops of the walls hung blue and pink flowers. instead of a ceiling there was a cloudy Star filled sky. the sun shining at a far away distance on one end and the full white moon behind me at the end near the gate. as we walked and my eyes wandered I noticed a puff of grey show up in the corner of my eye taking large strides along beside us. “Finally you're here.” grimms voice sounded off Irritated as I looked properly down at the cat walking near my feet. “Titania is in a foul mood. Almost everyone including Oberon is in the throne room. steer clear of her goodfellow and get the key.” girm warned before disappearing.

[unknown-writez]

The Traveler and The Jester

Chapter two: The Nightmarket

Part seven

“will do.” I said, giving her a wink “it was nice to see you as always.” puck added before grabbing my hand waving goodbye and turning around to follow grim who had already started walking a little ahead of us before disappearing. Looking back over my shoulder I saw cricket waving a goodbye back at us growing further and further away till she disappeared as we walked into the busy market once again moving through the masses and past the bright colored tables holding potion bottles and random objects. As we sped by one particular stand I noticed puck swiftly grab something off the table with his free hand shoving whatever it was into his pants pocket not stopping his fast stride only moving faster as if to not get caught. When we made it out and were alone in the woods I stopped walking puck not noticing till he pulled me forwards on accident but I remained unmoving. dropping my hand he turned to face me as I put my hands on my hips looking at him with a smirk and an eyebrow raised. “So what did you nick back there?” I asked mischievously, “I don’t know what you're talking about?” puck retorted faking innocence “come on it’s not like I’m any better. let’s just say I had some sticky fingers back in the city.” “fineee.” puck said putting his hand in his pocket and taking it out, opening it to show he had an old worn out pair of dice in his palm. the once white and black colors now chipped and faded into grey and brown “dice?” I questioned “I thought it would have been something flashier. do you not have a pair at home or something?” puck let out a chuckle starting to explain “these aren’t just any dice there fated dice. Last time I used them I turned half the court into rats, queen titania included. She still has a personal vendetta against me. I figured we could use them if we are ever in a pinch.” “nice! good thinking.” I said in a praising tone “and to think I thought maybe at least you could be useful.” grims voice appeared. following the voice I looked up, noticing him laid out staring down at me from the branch above us. “You're just as bad as him. If we ever want to get to the summer court, you're going to need to be a little faster. Far less tea breaks, more walking. I trust you know how to get there, goodfellow.” grim finished judging in a serious tone before walking behind a tree and vanishing. “well…” I shrugged looking at puck “You heard the cat, less talking more walking. lead the way, goodfellow.” I finished mocking grim jokingly as I teased puck who laughed turning around to walk forwards. I caught up giving his shoulder a playful shove laughing all the while as puck led me once again through the whylewoods.

[unknown-writez]

The Traveler and The Jester

Chapter two: The Nightmarket

Part six

“fine.” puck said, giving an exasperated sigh before explaining. “she has been somehow traveling in her dreams, transporting between realms randomly. I bound her to me so that we could figure it out without running into unnecessary complications.” With an intrigued smile Grimm said “quite the deal for you goodfellow. I know someone who can help enlighten us on the situation however they are on earth. we can take the maze to a portal but unfortunately for us the kings and queens locked them up tight after the Meghan incident…” The cat paused for a second reminiscing as he glared at Robin who nervously laughed scratching the back of his head and shrugging sheepishly “it wasn't just my fault.” Puck defended himself only earning a eye roll from the cat before he moved on speaking again “royalty themselves each have a personal key so that they can go back and forth as they please. All you have to do is go to the summer court and steal one. assuming you can, that is.” Grimm finished taunting puck at the end. Robin scoffed, crossing his arms saying “I can do that in my sleep. no problem.” “good.” grimlarkin responded “cricket should be just about finished by now. if you both are done Lollygagging. we can go meet her.” grim finished hoping off the horse and stepping off the platform disappearing out of thin air after. I sent a confused glance at puck to which he replied “he does that. He'll show himself when he has something to say. the only time he actually disappears is when something bad is about to happen.” “makes sense.” I said back hopping of the old metal structure puck following behind me. When we got back to crickets grim and her were standing out in front of the wagon waiting for us. cricket smiled looking over at me with a pile of clothes in her hand. “here you go!” She said tossing the bundle to me “you can go change in the wagon” she finished me saying “thanks.” In return as I went to enter her wagon. going up the wooden steps I opened the door and both nuts and bolts raced out of it going into the field, almost toppling me over before I went inside closing the door behind me. The inside was bigger than anyone would have thought with a bed and workstations on each of the sides of the wooden room. The floor and makeshift counters were covered in metal clutter, blinking lights, and wires. Taking the clothes I put them on a nearby surface, taking my old ones off, I changed into the green velvety patchwork pants that had tiny gold and orange glitter strips and struggled to put on the orange corset top that matched it adorned with a glittery autumn leaves pattern and green ribbon. Last but not least I noticed some brown boots in the corner tucked under a workbench deciding I'd rather not be barefoot this whole time and that cricket most likely wouldn’t miss them. I put them on. lacing the laces tight. When I was finally comfortable I exited crickets wagon. Upon stepping outside everyone’s conversations ceased as their eyes met me. “wow…” puck said almost stunned, unable to form more words as cricket chimed in with “she really does look like you summer fey now!” I smiled nervously starting to walk up to the group only for puck to meet me halfway grabbing my shoulders to stop me. “just one more thing.” puck said to me and with a snap of his fingers my hair changed from messy and unkempt to an extravagant half up half down look with little accent braids that held beads, golden cuffs and rings on them. “perfect.” puck said with a smirk “add some glamour to hide a couple things like your ears and not even king Oberon himself will be able to tell the difference.” puck spoke finishing as I smiled up at him. “Yes, good work. you all managed to do the bare minimum.” grimalkin said sarcastically “thank you for all your help cricket.'' I chipped in warm heartedly sensing grimms growing discontent at still being here. “It's no problem! anything for a friend! just remember to tell everyone you bump into that crickets trinkets is the place to go for all your needs and more!” cricket responded her voice proud of her accomplishments

[unknown-writez]

The Traveler and The Jester

Chapter two: The Nightmarket

Part five

Now standing in front of him his hand left mine and instead both of his found their way to my waist to secure me from falling backwards. his body and face were so close to mine that a heat started to rise in my chest. I looked up at him, his green eyes sparkling with a hint of something unreadable. “You know you're not so bad either.” he said, leaning slowly forward, his lips holding a smirk. The closer he got the more I could faintly feel his warm breath against my cheek. moving his lips to my ear he said softly in an almost whisper “turn around.” The words sending tingles up my spine. hesitantly I did as told his hands still not leaving my hips as I spinned around to face the market full of people. In the distance colors and sounds popped off like fireworks from above the crowd into the purplish blue sky that was constantly full of stars as if it was not quite day or night. I could hear the fun vendor's voices echoing in the wind trying to sell their goods above the live music that emerged from different parts of the crowd “hold on.” puck spoke again in my ear this time goosebumps rose on my skin. I brought up my arm grabbing the pole that puck had been leaning on behind my head, the anticipation thick in the air. Suddenly puck snapped his fingers, the sound coming from behind me and a warm breeze started to surround us. The wind carrying gold and yellow sparkles along with a couple leaves growing stronger and stronger whipping my hair around till the whole carousel came to life. moving slowly with loud metal creeks and clanging. going in circles the spinning started to go faster with the wind. I giggled leaning up against pucks chest joy beaming from me as I laughed out loud having fun. My heart overflowing at the moment. like this is what I had been missing my whole life. Slowly the wind died back down and the carousel came to a slow stop. turning around I squealed with excitement “that was amazing!” While throwing my arms around pucks neck. I hugged him a silent thank you “I knew you would like it.” puck said hugging me back happily laughing “well if you're quite done showing off I’d say we have business to attend too.” A low unrecognizable male voice interjected with annoyance. pulling apart from puck I looked for the person the new voice belonged to but there was nobody around, only a fluffy light grey cat that sat perched on top of one of the horses next to us licking its pink paw. “Grimalkin, what are you doing here?” puck said sounding a little irritated “how did you find us?” he finished “I was just in the market when I passed a vendor talking to cricket. Imagine my surprise when I overheard that she was looking for summer fey clothes. Once I heard that I just knew you had to be around up to something. however I must admit I did not expect something as delectable as this.” the cat spoke, narrowing its yellow eyes on puck. “No one can hide anything from you furball.” puck responded, crossing his arms. moving the cat jumped to the horse nearest to me, its eyes now staring up at me with a tiny grin on its face “and who might you be?” He asked “I’m Y/N.” I responded reaching out to pet him only to get my hand swatted away by his paw. “interesting…” he responded with a little purr “now what possessed you to make a deal with this imbecile?” he continued questioning me. I quickly looked at puck , unsure what to say and or reveal. “Look cat, we aren't telling you anything endless you are on our side no strings attached.” puck spoke for me, sensing my hesitation. “please you idiots need someone intelligent like me to get anything done… but I do suppose I see the need for your concern. yes goodfellow you have my word. My help is free for the only price is me accompanying you. I haven’t found something this intriguing for what feels like centuries. Now tell me everything.” Grimm spoke reassuringly back intrigued.

[unknown-writez]

The Traveler and The Jester

Chapter two: The Nightmarket

Part four

A few seconds of silence happened before a loud whistle erupted over the sounds of the dogs and the side door to the wagon shot open with a cloud of black smoke. Standing in the doorframe stood a tall bronze colored robot looking fey made from bolted down metal panels with glowing green eyes, pointy ears full of piercings, big curly green and red hair made of wires and some copper goggles attached to the top of her head. She also wore a messy oil stained brown apron filled with tools, a brown corset top, black capris and some matching black boots. “nuts! bolts! get inside!” she hollered, pointing inside the wagon as she scolded her dogs loudly. Her voice coming out sounding like she was on an old radio show. The dogs obeyed, both stopping their tough charade to race each other inside. “puck!” she said, her voice sounding happy “it’s great to see you again! Who's your friend?” she finished asking as she walked closer gesturing to me. “This is Y/N.” puck answered as I waved to her saying “sup.” “It's a pleasure!” she said back with a smile looking at me then turning to puck putting her hands on her hips saying “So what can I do you for and why are you bringing a human girl here? make it snappy. I’m swamped with work.” “number one I didn’t bring her here she did that all on her own. I’m just helping. two I need some summer fey clothes to help make her blend in. you know how nasty people can be out there and you're the only one I can trust with this.” he finished turning on a charismatic charm to convince her. “No need for theatrics, goodfellow. I’ll help.” she responded “you're lucky. I know a trader here who has just what you need and he just so happens to owe me a favor. I’ll be back in a jiff. then you and your new found champion can get out of my hair. hang tight!” She finished while she walked away towards the market. “Want to go for a walk while we wait? I want to show you a cool spot nearby.” puck asked turning towards me “sure. sounds fun.” I say nodding my head. Before I could think puck reached out grabbing my hand again the feeling of it was almost right natural even as he led me towards the old carousel in the distance. “you know for someone who lives on earth you sure are taking everything well. When Meghan found out and first came here she was all jumpy and weirded out but not you. you're so nonchalant about it.” puck said his eyes meeting mine for a second. As we walked to wherever puck was going I could feel the tall wet grass under my bare feet and around my ankles nipping at my skin grounding me in the moment before I spoke back. “ You know I have spent my entire life dreaming, hoping, hell praying that magic was real. that all the mythological stories and fairytales I have read were true. that one day I would be whisked off to a great adventure full of impossible things… but it didn’t happen. I grew up dealing with the reality that life wasn’t like that but some part of me still believed in the childish idea. I stayed always hoping. Now that it’s finally happening to me it’s like a hole has finally been filled. It’s like my mind never doubted itself. I knew deep down magic had always been there. It's like nothing has changed but also at the same time everything has. it’s kinda hard to explain…sorry.`` I say a small smile on my face as I nervously laughed embarrassed. “don’t be sorry.” puck responded “some things are just unexplainable.” he finished “thank you for understanding.” I said as we reached the carousel my assumption of where we were headed being correct “you know you're not so bad goodfellow.” I said the smile on my face growing more. puck laughed a big smile also on his face before he hopped onto the metal platform, the whole carousel groaning as he stepped on it. afterwards he stood leaning carelessly on a pole holding a horse facing me. Its once colorful vibrant paint now worn out sunbleached and chipped from sitting out too long in the elements. puck stepped forward a bit reaching out his hand to help me up my grin never leaving my face as I grabbed on stepping up on the platform with him.

[unknown-writez]

The Traveler and The Jester

Chapter two:The Nightmarket

Part three

Once we were safe on the surface again the cave gremlins couldn’t go outside and instead of fighting more we all celebrated life together with the nymphs. Ash got so drunk that Mr Dark and mysterious was terribly singing and dancing. He woke up the next day with flowers in his hair and to this day I will never let him forget it. you should see him when I tease him about it he gets all flustered and defensive.” puck finished his story as we both laughed. before I knew it we arrived at the entrance to the night market. it was crowded full of every magical creature you could think of and more. The clearing was packed full with stands, tents and wagons lights strung out between them along with glowing lanterns of all colors. Everyone was selling different wares. On the outskirts of everything there was what appeared to be old amusement park pieces. a carousel and Ferris wheel all decayed and abandoned covered in overgrown vines and plants. Like Chernobyl happened. loud voices and music erupted from the crowds haggling and laughing resounding in the air, each person trying to talk over and louder than the next. it reminded me of the city streets had they been brought to life with magic and full of newfound wonders. With an astonished look in my eyes I turned to puck excitedly shouting “this is so wicked!” “I’m glad you're enjoying the scenery but stay close. It's hard to keep track of things here and I don’t want you getting lost.” he warned in a loud voice “awe puck! I didn’t know you cared for me that much.” I said sarcastically putting my hand on my heart with a smirk to which he scoffed at while holding out his hand for me to grab. taking it he intertwined our fingers, his hold on me tight as he started to lead us to and through the crowds. as we weaved in and out of the people sellers yelled and shoved their products in our faces desperately trying to make a deal with people but puck stayed focused moving towards his target determined. Soon we got through the masses, the people lessening as we reached some wagons separated from the rest of the tents set up on the grassy outskirts near the abandoned structures. puck headed to a particular red and green one. The wagon had old rusted metal trinkets, objects and junk all over and around it. approaching it I noticed a lit up neon green sign in the front of it saying crickets trinkets. Hanging next to it there was a handmade metal wind chime, the lights catching and reflecting like glitter as it moved. Drawled in by it I reached my hand up to move it but before I could a brisk wind came through, sounding it off as it swayed metal hitting metal in little tings. Suddenly a loud electronic growl reached my ears washing away the sound of the wind chime. I Turned my head looking around for the source but I couldn’t find it meanwhile Puck slowly backed us away from the wagon, the tension building in the air. Slowly from out behind the wagon 2 tall metal robot dogs made from random parts and loose wires revealed themselves from behind the wagon both steaming as they came out growling and barking at us. hunting us like prey. puck let go of my hand to instead grab my waist moving me behind him slowly so as to not make any sudden movements. Then standing confidently he yelled in a stern voice at the wagon “cricket! Come get your dogs! before I turn them into a pile of sticks!”

[unknown-writez]

The Traveler and The Jester

Chapter two: The Nightmarket

Part two

The door shut behind us loudly and a blast of warm breeze hit my face. I closed my eyes a second while breathing in the fresh air then turned to puck who hadn’t moved yet as he watched me. “So which way is the court?” I asked ready to start our trek but he just laughed “we aren’t going to the court. At least not yet.” he started to explain “but you said…” I started only for him to cut me off “I know what I said but do you really think we will be able to strut right past the guards and through the massive amounts of fey with you looking like that?” he gestured to my clothes ``…no.We are going to the night market to get some clothes and stuff. no one can hurt or suspect you there. it’s a neutral territory, all are welcomed, lucky for us.” he finished explaining, starting to walk towards the woods ruffling the top of my head as he passed. I walked after him trying to catch up blush creeping onto my cheeks “ how far is the market?” I asked, “Not far, only like a 15 minute walk.” He replied “wicked.” I said back smiling at him “So robin what do you do for fun?” I asked, trying to start a conversation “honestly other than saving damsels in distress like you and messing with the court not much.” he replied, shrugging “you must have a lot of great stories then.” I replied, his smile growing as he pridefully reminisced “you bet! I have a story for every occasion!” he said “what’s your favorite?” I asked, stepping over a log following him through the dark forest “my favorite story?… it has to be when I had my two friends ash and ari. before everything went downhill. before I met Megan even. us three would cause havoc and chase down monsters. see air and ash were winter fey and you know our different courts don’t get along but we didn’t care. Even when the kings and queens would send hunting party after hunting party we stood our ground and fought together no matter what. Well, one day we were exploring the border between summer and winter and we came across this cave. Ash being the stoic know it all he thought we shouldn’t go in but I thought differently and did what I always do and dived head first not caring. Plus in all honesty we both kinda had a thing for ari. so it was always a competition. Who was the bravest? Who could kill more monsters? ya know stupid stuff. So me being me I ran into this cave and of course they ran in after me like I planned all along. as soon as they caught up all of a sudden the floor fell out from underneath us. we ended up dropping like six stories into this water filled chamber luckily we all had powers to break the fall them with their ice and I turned into a bird but The two of them slid right off their makeshift iceberg and dropped right into the freezing water while I was safe and dry on a big rock that poked out the water in the middle. Eventually ash and ari got to land with me and ash went off throwing a fit yelling and screaming like a little kid. “puck you careless fool!'' Robin shouted in a loud deep annoying voice mimicking his friend while I laughed. “all because he was cold, wet and stuck because of me.” he continued back to normal “meanwhile I stood laughing and making fun of him. It was the funniest thing ever!” puck let out a happy laugh “then breaking our arguing there was a loud rumbling sound coming from a far part of the cave that we couldn’t see. Ari scolded us saying we needed to be quiet but it was too late. Our noise alerted the gremlins that had resided in the different chambers and within minutes hundreds of them swarmed us. We fought together all three of us in sync till Ari came up with a plan. As I did what I do best, annoyed and distracted the gremlins all the while getting them to move up the walls of the cave ari froze them creating a kind of ladder. we got out the hole we fell through and raced out the cave….

[unknown-writez]

The Traveler and The Jester

Chapter Two: The Nightmarket

Part one

The sounds of metal banging woke me up the next morning, my brain forgetting for a moment where I was until I opened my eyes. sunlight shined in through the window directly in them. The brightness making me squint as I sat up, letting them slowly adjust. I looked around the reality of where I was shooing my sleepiness away, replacing it with curiosity. pushing back the blanket I must have moved on top of me in my sleep I got up rubbing my eyes Doing a little stretch before making my way towards and out the door. As soon as I stepped out of the room my eyes landed on puck who was crouched in front of the lit fireplace moving something around in a sizzling pan hanging in the middle of it. I made my way to the couch as puck finished what he was doing standing and turning towards me with a pan of eggs in his hand. his green eyes met my tired blue ones, a big grin appearing on his face. “Morning sleeping beauty!” he taunted me, to which I rolled my eyes. “Wait here!” he finished and walked towards the room I hadn’t been in disappearing behind the now cracked open door. after a few seconds later I heard a loud “alright come here!” and walked over to the door pushing it open lightly. The room was small with cabinets lining both sides along with a makeshift countertop space to one side and a window at the very end. In the middle of the room stood puck in front of a square shaped wooden table, the top of it holding silverware, napkins, plates full of eggs and toast and a vase of wildflowers in between the two place settings. “ta da!” he said, his face gleaming with pride as he gestured to one of the wooden chairs moving to pull it out a little . I smiled back at him and said “thank you.” sitting down at the table puck going to sit down after me. I grabbed the fork and scooped some eggs in my mouth, my tastebuds firing off as I chewed “yo! this is really good!” I said to him in between mouthfuls grabbing my toast as he nibbled at everything before dropping his fork, not interested. “it’s always nice to be appreciated. Eat up we got a big day ahead of us.” he said leaning back watching me “so realistically how far is the summer court?” I asked, putting down the toast wiping the crumbs off my hands. “a few hours walk through the woods if we don’t run into trouble. no more than a day.” he said nonchalantly. had I not walked everywhere in the city I might have been concerned but I just nodded knowing I would survive. abruptly puck stood up from his chair saying “I’m gonna go get some stuff together before we leave stay here and finish eating.” “Sure thing.” I said back watching puck give a slight nod exiting the room leaving me sitting alone. in the quiet my head starting to ask myself questions. Was I ready for everything to come? could I take it all and still keep going? Was I strong enough for the undeniable struggles I was about to face? dealing with the fact that all this is real was weird enough. trusting puck was a leap of faith one that paid off now that I knew puck was there to catch me when I inevitably fell but still it was hard. Could I do it again? Trusting another total stranger wasn’t easy and what if next time it doesn’t turn out the same way. Most fey are deadly. they could trick me, say one thing and mean or do another. Realizing that questioning everything was a dark path that I would rather not follow. I pushed away my self doubt, reasoning that I had dealt with many seemingly impossible problems in my life. I must have been zoned out and lost track of time because a few seconds later puck came back “ready to go?” he asked “as ready as I’ll ever be.” I said getting up grabbing my plate to put in the sink only to notice there was none. puck laughed a little and snapped his fingers little orange sparks shooting out as he did it and within a blink of an eye all the dishes and food disappeared. “I wish I had that at home.” I joked, chuckling a little while walking towards him and he led the way outside.

[unknown-writez]

The Traveler and The Jester

Chapter one: strange places and meetings

Part six

without thinking, blinded by my emotions and everything I grabbed two of the smallish looking pink and purple fruit examining it. I could only describe it as a cross between a peach and a plum but when I synced my teeth into the juice filled fruit I was met with the taste of sweet raspberries and wine. wanting more I quickly ate the next my body finally feeling hungry through all the adrenaline deciding to take one more. puck followed suit tossing one in his mouth before placing the bowl on the table. as I watched puck do it everything started to go in slow motion my head growing clouded and relaxed a high sensation starting to come over me tingling my whole body. Noticing the change puck gave out a small chuckle before he grabbed my chin tilting my head upwards so he could look me properly in the eye, his brimming with curiosity. “how are you feeling?” he asked. smiling I said “honestly I’m feeling a little zooted” puck laughed joining in entertained by not being able to understand me saying “I can’t believe you're still functioning.” “why?” I asked, swaying a little “cause that fruit you ate isn't the regular kind. fey use these to get drunk. For humans this stuff is supposed to knock you on your ass. I jokingly gave Meghan some and she passed out after eating one bite you ate three.” he explained “well…” I said, closing my eyes, relishing in the feeling “she sounds kinda like a bitch.” puck tugged on my hair making me open my eyes ``hey! what?” I continued “she’s a lightweight. I’m Scott’s Irish. I was made for this.” I finished laughing as puck made an exasperated sigh sitting down with me finally. “of course you are.” he said sarcastically “everything over there is rooted in magic. you can’t take five steps without stepping into something complicated and magical then once it’s in your blood it’s there forever.” he finished “hmmm…totally” I say not fully able to comprehend what he was rambling on about “you know I see why you guys use this stuff. I have never felt a high this good and I have tried everything in Brooklyn.” I say using my hands to express it, breaking him from his roaming thoughts “at least now we know for sure there’s something wrong with you.” he joked “yep that’s me! always a mess!” I laughed back “I think you should probably go to bed honey. we have a long day ahead of us tomorrow.” puck said leaning back with a yawn “I’ll take the couch.” he finished I nodded and tried getting up only to trip on the table. puck quickly sat up reaching out his arms he put his hands on my waist keeping me from toppling over. I laughed as I stood straight again, pucks hands hesitantly leaving my body as I started stumbling my way to the bedroom door. feeling pucks cautious eyes on me I turned around only to catch them darting to something else pretending he wasn’t watching making me smile. “thank you puck…” I said looking at him affectionately, his eyes immediately finding mine with a surprised yet still equally passionate gaze “for everything.” I finished in a soft tone, turning a light shade of pink as blush went to his ears and face puck replied casually “it’s nothing…” pausing for a second his face softened his green eyes sparkling with admiration “I’ll do anything to help you.” He finished with a more serious tone. Hearing those words made my head spin. my heart swelled in my chest. Unable to bring words to my emotions I nodded with a smile and gave him a little salute saying a light “goodnight.” at him then I turned entering the room, the door closing behind me. I leaned against the wood head raised to the ceiling, a faint smile on my face as the heat that had risen on my cheeks lingered. Closing my eyes I savored the moment feeling a mixture of foggy feelings known and unknown fighting for my attention. raking a hand through my untamed hair I opened my eyes denying them knowing I wasn’t going to find all the answers right now. Looking over to the bed I flopped down onto it, my head sinking into the pillow tiredness hitting me all at once. unable to fight sleep as it overtook me and I drifted into oblivion

[unknown-writez]

The Traveler and The Jester

Chapter one: strange places and meetings

Part five

“I know.” he said, giving me a nod his mood lighting up “trust me you're nothing like her….” he continued trying to joke past the moment “in a good way.” he finished his tone shifting to a charming one as he looked me up and down. breaking the silence I asked “how do we even know this thing worked?” tapping the leaf on my wrist “what do you mean?” he asked leaning forward “you can’t feel it?” “Feel what?” I replied “I don’t know how to explain.” he said trying “it feels like I can sense your aura. like I can feel your emotions faintly in my head.” he said closing his eyes for a second before popping up on the couch moving to stand in front of the fireplace “time for a test run!” he said excitedly “go to the bedroom over there…” he continued pointing at one of the rooms “and I’ll try and bring you back over here.” he said pointing at the space next to him “okay” I said slightly skeptical getting up from the couch my feet touching the cold wood as I walked over to the door just now noticing I wasn’t wearing shoes. I guess I’ve been so caught up in the moment I reasoned. Looking over my shoulder I gave one last look at puck who gave a reassuring nod before going into the room closing the door behind me. looking around the room I found out I was indeed in the bedroom. There was a makeshift wooden bed in the corner at the end of it, an old black trunk with rusted gold pieces. across from the bed was a wooden nightstand, the top covered with lit candles. puck must have lit every fire in the house I thought as I watched the flames flicker. Above it hanging on the wall was a golden mirror. My reflection in it disheveled broken leaves from outside stuck in my messy poofy hair, each section going in different ways. My pale green pj shorts and matching Lacey tank top are now all covered in dirt. However my many gold hoop piercings were still intact along with my other jewelry I didn’t take off the day before. I looked like a wreck that’s for sure. no wonder puck wanted to help. I was not able to think about it long however as a bright yellowish orange light caught my eye. bringing my wrist up, I realized the light was coming from the mark that puck had given me. the once black leaf now shining brightly like the ink was made of molten lava burning my skin. The light grew filling the room getting brighter and brighter turning white until I was engulfed by it, making me close my eyes as they strained against it. After a while the light started to die down and the burning stopped. Opening my eyes I was instead met with a flurry of orange glitter and autumn leaves spinning around me making me dizzy, the room vanishing in thin air behind it all. Suddenly my feet that I didn’t know were off the ground came crashing down onto the hardwood floor making me lose my balance. I was about to fall when all at once the flurry disappeared revealing puck. his arms outstretched, grabbing onto mine to keep me steady. his fingers leaving a tingling sensation on my skin as blush crept up on my cheeks once again “well that was more effective then I thought it would be!” puck beamed with a triumphant smile, his green eyes playful and mischievous. “time for a celebration!” he finished moving his hands to my waist. He quickly started spinning me around and around waltzing me throughout the living room. I held on putting my head on his shoulder smiling and laughing as I got lightheaded till unexpectedly puck let go, sending me crashing onto the couch, my head and vision doing somersaults for a second as I recovered. looking up at him standing in front of me my heart started beating faster as a spark of something warm inside me ignited. puck brought up his hand giving me a dramatic bow laughing. as he brought his hand back down a golden bowl of what looked to be fruit magically appeared in a cloud of sparkles that slowly disappeared around it. “Go on...” he said, bringing his head up “trust me.” he continued affectionately, his eyes still as animated as before meeting mine with a smirk on his face. “Try one.” he finished in a daring tone