#king of winter king of rivers; king of ice and snow

[fairyofthefriz]

King of Winter, King of Rivers; King of Ice and Snow

Perwyn cleared his throat.  “We would like to offer free passage to House Stark and your hosts over the remainder of this war, and half-price on any group that passes through the Twins thereafter in times of peace.” “That’s very generous of you,” Arya says archly.  Lyra and Gendry move closer to her back.  “At what cost?” “Olyvar is to be His Grace’s squire,” Arwyn said fiercely.  “I would like to be lady-in-waiting to yourself.  Della and Osmund would page for Winterfell, and Benfrey granted a place in your castle, Princess.  Either Perwyn or Alesander for your husband, in Elmar’s place, and either Roslin or Alyx as Lord Edmure’s wife with the other being Princess Sansa’s lady-in-waiting, and Tyta for Lord.” “That’s too much!”  Lyra snapped.  “You overstep yourselves!”

All of the Links

(look I know it's not Sunday but I always forget on Sundays so please just take this offering!)

[sweetsbylia]

ONCE UPON A DREAM — CHAPTER ONE

warnings: knight!finnick o’dair x princess!reader, fencing, mentions of arranged marriage and misogyny, tiny bit of angst, yearning, mentions of dead parent, daddy issues

summary: sir finnick is admired by all. the noble ladies, fellow knights or the common peasants. for his honourable heart, undying loyalty, unwavering kindness and surprising knowledge not a lot of other knights possess. finnick swore a sacred vow to the king to protect the princess with his life and so he shall, upholding to the vow without a compromise, but underneath his mostly strong exterior, in the shadowed corners of the gardens, in the darkness of nights, across the beautiful ballrooms, his eyes are unable to hide the deep, forbidden love he feels for the princess

a/n: my biggest inspiration for this are czech fairytales which i recommend greatly, all of themmm, and i gotta say knight!finnick is my weakness now i love him…

word count: 2k

“with all due respect, m’lady, i do not believe he is a suitable courter for you hand.” the silver plate clad male, walked precisely three steps behind you, the distance respectful enough for his title, hands behind his back, eyes trailing over every inch of the garden, where peonies fade from the softest to screaming pinks.

panem laid somewhere between the lands of unknown —dark forests, dreadful mires, perilous crags, and the kindgdom of a never ending winter, one that was ruled by a man with a heart colder than ice. king crassus snow left behind two children after passing away due to a cruel illness, thaddeus and coriolanus snow, who as the first born prince, must find a noble girl for matrimony to become the new king of thorneveil.

“perhaps for my hand he is, finnick, but not my heart, of course, i agree with your concerns, but i am hesitant to go against my father’s wishes, i do not wish to upset him. prince coriolanus is a respected and wealthy man and i know that i will bring honour to my family and our marriage would be of gain to my kingdom, but,” a deep sigh coming from your own lips interrupted your perhaps a little long monologue before you carried on. “i am not sure i can stand a man this coldhearted.”

finnick o’dair, ever the fearless young man, worried. he dreaded thoughts of you being taken away and given to that tyrant of a man, he did not understand how could your father approve of this arrangement. the truce, of course, an important piece to the puzzle if you wish to reign, a sacrifice for the greater good, many have said, but not finnick. the bronze haired knight would have burn down the world until nothing remains, die a thousand times on a bloody battlefield, cross rivers, move mountains, only to save you.

“my liege, i can see this arranged marriage disturbs you greatly and i cannot stand by and only watch you suffer, perhaps i can intercede with his majesty on your behalf and voice my doubts.” if you were to be wed to a heir of a throne, it is no longer your father’s duty to provide for you. it is a choice, yes, but not with the service of your protection, dressing — that becomes the chore of your husband and finnick was certain, prince coriolanus will forbid you from seeing people he thought of as inferior. he would loose you.

“oh finnick, you are kind, but i do not want to send trouble upon you by my fault. you shall not speak unkindly about prince coriolanus in front of the council, they might tell on you and he is indeed a cruel man.”

your soft spoken words, a soothing balm for his aching heart and invisible wounds, brought a smile to his perfect features. his steps out of sudden fastened, the metal armor plates clinked against one another providing a soft sound. in a trice, finnick stood before you, forbidding you from walking forward, intense gaze of the sea greened orbs seeped into the depths of your pores, his eyes yearning for your attention, “will you?” left his throat when he obtained it.

“do you must ask?” you look up at him, lower lip ever so subtly trembling when it parted from the upper one, eyelashes fluttering in the spring breeze and the rest of your words were now refusing to leave your throat. the intensity in his eyes — you felt it with each and every human sense you controlled. how could a warrior look at a princess that way and not be punished? he absolutely would have been if anyone’s greedy eyes saw, that is why finnick and you, keep these moments hidden in the shadow of the pink blossom tree, behind the hundreds of rays’ of peonies where no one can take it away.

back and forth. back and forth. hypnotized almost, finnick watched the pendulum of a the huge golden clock swing, a fashionable contrast to the baby pink wall they decorated greatly. day by day, he accompanied you to breakfast, school lessons, your walk through the royal gardens, afternoon shenanigans, dinner and lastly to the library where you together read the stories of forbidden romance, true love, struggles, adventures. finnick then would lead you to your chambers, where the maids switch to take care of you, wishing you sweet dream and sound sleep, prepared himself, to find home, wash off the day, let his mother’s cooked meal comfort him and the feeling of his freshly laundered sheets sooth him.

perhaps it was just his mind playing tricks of him, but no one uttered a word. he hasn’t seen such quiet dinner in a very long period of time. firstly, his thoughts wondered to prince coriolanus, to the moment when the king announced to his daughter, she is about to be wed to the crown prince of the never ending winter kingdom .

“but father —“

“no buts! you will do as i say, you are my daughter, you are a princess, this is your duty, what you were born for. to be a wife, to be a mother and you better be one your failed to be.” cold, bitter taste the words leave on a tongue, a twist of a knife in a wound they are to a young broken heart. eight minutes. that is for how long finnick let the throne heiress out pf sight, leaving her with her father, big mistake. he hurried, walked as fast at he could if he wanted not to gain everyone’s attention. what was happening in the throne chamber, he wanted to know immediately.

“i am going to the celebrations tomorrow.”

your voice took finnick back from the memories, he lightly shook his head, raising his head back high, gaze immediately glued to you and the subtle clearing of his throat was heard due to the pin drop silence that followed your sentence. the celebrations at the village’s market. pf course. how could have he forgotten, that tomorrow may seventeenth, marks the anniversary of the queen’s fiftieth birthday. his majesty king arthur’s wife, isolde, was treasured by the people of panem all her life and after she passed unto the eternal rest, nothing changed, perhaps for the mourning. nobles, warriors, maids, commoners, children, they all still celebrated their queen.

“no. you are not going beneath the walls, not to the town. dangerous people live down there.” there was no doubt in that statement had indeed upset your father. in a way, he loved you. in a way, he loved his wife, he was certain he did. his worry and care for you was not feigned or a formality, loosing his only child would break him into the pieces he was made of, into the pieces your mother’s death break him into and your smile was the only glue holding him together.

“they are not dangerous, father. they are struggling and that is a difference. i want to bring honor to her memory.”

“by silly dancing, feasting and songs? don’t be foolish. you are not going, it is not safe.” the disdain in his voice made your heart ache a bit. you wished your father saw you as more than a puppet in his perfect play of the throne and peace. one day you would grown wings and will be as impactful as your dear mother was. or so you pray.

it was not fair. you wished to be allowed to cry, to be allowed to be anything more than just a princess. perhaps you were foolish, perhaps it is foolish to be unhappy when kilos of foods are served to you three times a day, when you had four dresses to change each and every day, when only your single bedroom was bigger than a house where families of five lived in just under the hill, but you were allowed to feel, no?

“i will be taking finnick with me,” unexpectedly you drop your fork to the plate, the loud noise changing the look in your bronze haired savior’s eyes, oh how he wished for you to have a better treatment, to be respected as the brilliant, kind woman you are than only a pawn. “i as well had lost my appetite. good night.”

pink heels click against the hard wooden floor, again and again as you storm off from the dining room, finnick following closely behind you, not before a short bow to the head of the kingdom, almost running to not loose you out of his sight.

“your majesty —“ one of king arthur’s councils spoke up, indignantly scowling, raising from his place, but the raise of his lord’s hand stopped him.

“let her go. she will abate her feelings by tomorrow.” the gray haired man spoke calmly, a great contrast to the previous coldness in his voice. you took so much after your mother it made him want to shed tears, but that was something he was not allowed to do. a king, a leader is never allowed to slip, to fail he just cannot. would he not love to see you shine brightly with happiness, find your true love and rule the people you love so much, along your husband. but that is impossible now. prince coriolanus had not only proposed but also threatened so your father will rather live with being the villain in your story than to have you hurt and loose the lives of innocent in a war they wouldn’t win.

“oh my dear, i wish for you to be by my side still.” his gaze found the painting of queen isolde — it hung high just on the wall opposite to his chair and the words left him like a silent prayer as if the dead could be brought back, as if she was going to hear him. king arthur was never much of a romantic man but he used to have his gallant moments. a book about soulmates, silly children’s fairytale, but it was her favorite so he read it. thousand times there and back just to be closer to her, because to loose a lover is to loose a half of our own soul.

“my princess. it would be my pleasure to accompany you to the town’s celebrations by the morning.” finnick understood your grief, your anger, he knew pain of losing someone so close to heart at such a young age. he wished to take your hurts away, heal your wounds and to love you for eternity without hiding, but if all that his fate has prepared for him, is to be your protector so shall he be, but perhaps he cannot protect you from yourself.

“i could not thank you enough.” you knew finnick in no way, small or loud, was allowed to speak against the nobles. ghat was the meaning of his title. a warrior, a soldier, a knight, he must obey and do as he is told to bring honor to his duty, his family, his kingdom even if he loses his life in the way, but you understood from his stance and tone, he was on your side.

“you must not thank me, it is my duty, m’lady.” finnick smiled at you gently once you both stood before the white, decorated door of your chambers. the moonlight piercing through the window illuminated your face features and for a moment he thought he saw hallucinating, seeing an angel and if heaven was you, he wanted it, all of it, all of you, to cherish it forever, before and after death, from dawn to dawn, never look away from the entrance to your soul of eyes they were. convinced they would heal, perhaps turn into a diamond he’d catch every one of your tears with the pad of his finger like it was sacred and he’d hush you in his arms until nothing but a smile remains.

“is that truly all it is?”

taglist: @anyaslittlepeanut @backgroundreader

[doc42]

"A hedge knight is the truest kind of knight."

People in the fandom have been obsessing for ages with "Fire and Blood" from Daenerys' concluding chapter in A Dance With Dragons and what it means for her crusade through the whole of Essos in The Winds of Winter, yet they never bring up how within that very same chapter Daenerys is compared to hedge knights, a wandering knight without a master. Now what does that mean for her fire and blood crusade through the entire continent of Essos and her coming to Westeros in The Winds of Winter.

Viserys told her tales of knights so poor that they had to sleep beneath the ancient hedges that grew along the byways of the Seven Kingdoms. Dany would have given much and more for a nice thick hedge. Preferably one without an anthill.

"A hedge knight is the truest kind of knight, Dunk. Other knights serve the lords who keep them, or from whom they hold their lands, but we serve where we will, for men whose causes we believe in."

"Are there no true knights among you?" The story is fundamentally and ultimately about knighthood, and Daenerys is performing the duty of a knight as queen on the other side of the world, to protect the weak with the power of a sword, "Why do the Gods make kings and queens if not to protect the ones who can't protect themselves?", "she could have tried, she could have died."

And the reference to hedge knights is the conclusion to the paragraph that alludes to the Others.

“Remember who you are, Daenerys,” the stars whispered in a woman’s voice. “The dragons know. Do you?” The next morning she woke stiff and sore and aching, with ants crawling on her arms and legs and face. When she realized what they were, she kicked aside the stalks of dry brown grass that had served as her bed and blanket and struggled to her feet. She had bites all over her, little red bumps, itchy and inflamed. Where did all the ants come from? Dany brushed them from her arms and legs and belly. She ran a hand across her stubbly scalp where her hair had burned away, and felt more ants on her head, and one crawling down the back of her neck. She knocked them off and crushed them under her bare feet. There were so many … It turned out that their anthill was on the OTHER side of her wall. She wondered how the ants had managed to climb over it and find her. To them these tumbledown stones must loom as huge as the Wall of Westeros. The biggest wall in all the world, her brother Viserys used to say, as proud as if he’d built it himself.

Because the Others were created as the kingsguard of the children of the forest and they serve as the masters of the dead animated by hate and vengeance, "valar morghulis" - "valar dohaeris." They're perfect knights who perform their vow all too well because "cold preserves", in contrast to the human stories where the characters get entangled in the contradictions and unintended consequences that arise from trying to follow the vows in reality instead of dreams. You'll always fail some. But they won't, because they have a single vow that dooms all. They're not a race with its own culture or anything (as GRRM said we will certainly learn their history, but he's "not sure they have a culture") but the cold knights, the ghost knights, which is why GRRM's preferred term for them, "white shadows", is used for both the kingsguard and Jon Snow's direwolf "Ghost" within the story.

That night she dreamt that she was Rhaegar, riding to the Trident. But she was mounted on a dragon, not a horse. When she saw the Usurper's rebel host across the river they were armored all in ice, but she bathed them in dragonfire and they melted away like dew and turned the Trident into a torrent. Some small part of her knew that she was dreaming, but another part exulted. This is how it was meant to be. The other was a nightmare, and I have only now awakened.

And against the ghost knights too perfect to be fallible at their vow, a true knight stands and wields the sword of fire, imperfect because she's human, a wandering knight who serves where she will and will come and go as she pleases.

Dany would have given much and more for a nice thick hedge. Preferably one without an anthill.

[loz-untold-myths]

The Mage's Lantern Worldbuilding

◇▪︎ Darune Town ▪︎◇

Concept map (2024).

Darune Town (also known as Darune Village among the townspeople) is a settlement constructed where one was previously devastated by the Silver Tempest and swarms of monsters. It is named after an ancient Sage of Fire in hopes of fortune against the severe cold Hyrule has been stricken with. It is Link's hometown and primarily run by the Link (Arnson) and Lon families.

Basic Info

Darune Town is Link's hometown.

The town has no mayor, due to only recently being recognized as a new township. Link's father Arn, however, is often treated as the equivalent of one.

Their main livestock consists of Highland Cows that used to roam Hyrule Field. They also raise horses, although they're only of use for deliveries along the Stone Road (a pathway constructed throughout the plains of Hyrule Field). Usually, dogsleds are used for shorter travels; especially when going to retrieve materials. Alternatively, there are a select few fishing spots with Hyrulean Salmon that were trapped by the cut-off of a stream.

Construction

During the arduous construction, entire sections of the snow would be dug and re-dug each morning, as well as the thick layers of ice formed over the soil by the Silver Tempest. This was to prevent any misconceptions in the building process: to make sure nothing relied on the packed snow for support.

If the snow were to ever disappear, the buildings would still be structurally sound– they are supported by layers of carved stone. The paths used for the horses are, as well. Darune’s roads have step-like borders, they just are never visible due to the snow’s buildup. Sometimes, not even the elevated pathways are really visible... that's where the sled rental service comes in.

Torches are posted along the roads, but are snuffed out quickly. Only certain spots have lanterns, as it's more important to keep the public spaces visible in the event of an emergency. The lamppost man's sole job for the town is to run across the town keeping all the torches and lanterns lit, night and day. Occasionally, he likes to do hearth and chimney inspections just to be doing something else...

The ranch and stables are given a sort of “roof” that is made of retractable but sturdy tiles, requiring multiple people to deploy and remove. They took years to make, but the project was funded by the King once he heard of the effort (he believed it would be vital for other remaining settlements to be able to replicate). Lanterns are meant to try and simulate natural light for the horses and cows as well as keep them warm– Epona likes to rub her face against them despite Arn's efforts to discourage the habit.

Most of the village has cellars for the winter and days of particularly unfortunate weather. The cellar doors, instead of being built at ground level, are built on elevated cobble pillars against the cellar chimneys. They're more so storm shelters.

Origin

Darune Village was built after the collapse of many homes in the general area during the Silver Tempest's awakening.

The town was built specifically with the storm in mind, on the backs of many hardworking and determined individuals. So much work went into the construction that it is rumored that some of the volunteers died on site from exhaustion.

Location Info + Climate

Darune is in a region of Hyrule Field called the Greater Hyrulean Plains, making it one of the closest settlements to the eye of the Silver Tempest.

The pond has been cut off from the stream that originally let water in from the river, so some villagers gather snowfall in a bucket to turn into boiling water for drinking.

The pond also has been almost entirely frozen over in a thick top layer, except for the center area. The center area's ice is much thinner, so it may break if disturbed for too long. There have been cases of people falling in and becoming ill.

Before the tempest, the Darune area tended to be around 76° average during the summer and about 33° average during the winter. Now, the summer average is 30°, and the winter average is only 17° at best and -32° at worst. Winters are unlivable across Hyrule and become a sort of lockdown, and in late autumn, the king usually issues out supplies rationed throughout the year to minimize how many people must starve. Castle Town folks have it even worse, but at least have easier access to trade routes.

Luckily, Darune mostly gets snow or ice rain rather than the Castle Town or Hebra Region's persistent hailstorms. This makes it a safe travel spot for those who accidentally find themselves off the Stone Road, but since the only "inn" is just a rest stop with two beds, villagers just take turns letting people rest in their homes.

The Temple of Time

The Temple of Time was what connected the old village to Castle Town. It was the site of many ceremonies, especially weddings; it was said to be representative of the Spirit Maiden, Hylia, and her eternal love for a mortal soul destined to meet her again throughout time (a common Hyrulean fairytale).

The Temple closed its doors to the public shortly before the Silver Tempest came about.

Around the time Darune was built, the Temple's upkeep seemingly stopped. However, village children still insist they see shadows crawling towards it on clear nights... which adults don't really believe, since there aren't often clear nights anymore.

Within the Temple of Time, Link finds a chamber dedicated to heroes of the past: spirits and fae who guided heroes to meeting Hylia in the past. The center of the room holds a little lantern, containing the fire spirit, Searis. Link has no idea why the spirit was locked inside or who placed him there... but perhaps he is the key to saving his village from their neverending struggle to survive?

Spectacle Rock

The village's primary source of Rock Salt. Ore deposits often appear from the strange stone.

Residents (NPCs)

Link and his family know just about everyone in town. It's small, after all. Some NPCs may be recognizable. Others, not so much.

Link

Arn

Aryll

Malon

Talon

Ingo

Old Man Linebeck

Wane (Lamppost Man)

Kyndlewax

Wulf

Dot

❄️ NPC art post will be linked here once completed. ❄️

Side Quests

If I got to actually format The Mage's Lantern as a game without Nintendo having my head, there would be a slightly longer beginning section similar to that of Ordon Village in Twilight Princess. This would include the chance to do a series of sidequests before Link wanders to Spectacle Rock.

❄️ Chapters 1-6 as a game. ❄️ (WIP)

Includes: Warm Apology, Horse Training, A Fishy Situation

. . .

Warm Apology (Quest Get)

I was supposed to spend time with Aryll today, but I completely slept through it... The least I can do is help her feel better in whatever way I can. I want to get something that'll fight off her sickness, too... but I don't have any money. People lose stuff in the snow all the time, though! Maybe I can find something...

Warm Apology (Bought Safflina)

I managed to gather enough rupees to buy the most expensive thing at Wax & Wane's General Shop. It's a flower called an Amber Safflina from somewhere far away... apparently it fights the cold (both the weather and the illness, so they say). I'm not so sure I can believe it, but I have to give it a try. They rarely have these lately... And who sees flowers anymore?! Aryll won't believe it, either!

Warm Apology (Complete)

I gave Aryll the Amber Safflina as an apology gift. She seemed really happy, so I think I'm forgiven. Phew. She even wanted to save one of them.

...

I forget that she doesn't get to go outside much until she recovers... and that she's only seen a few flowers ever. Mama used to tell me there were hundreds.

. . .

Horse Training (Quest Get)

I found Malon sneaking around the stables again, for some reason. She likes to work here with the horses instead of the cows at the ranch.

...

Anyway, that growl Papa was talking about seems to have scared all of the horses except for Epona. Now they just won't listen to Malon, even with her song. I'll have to soothe them all before they go back into the stable...

Horse Training (Complete)

I had to ride each horse back into the stables individually, but they're safe now. Malon gave them some straw so they'll stay put.

She told me not to tell, but she gave me some rupees as a reward. I tried to turn them down - she was pretty insistent... I guess these could be useful, though.

. . .

A Fishy Situation (Quest Get)

Because of the monster, not even Papa's friends can keep on track... It really must be bad. Usually, Papa's the sort of leader to get anybody on task!

I wonder if there's something I can do to help, even if Papa says different. Maybe if I ask around..

A Fishy Situation (Mystery Solved)

I asked around a little bit, and it seems like all the workers are just hungry. I think I get why they're so distracted now... but what can I bring them?

...

I guess I can find them some fish at the pond... I'm probably going to regret this, aren't I?

A Fishy Situation (Fishing Done)

It felt weird to go back to the pond after these past couple of weeks. It looks almost completely frozen over again - they must have had to re-carve the fishing holes. Would Aryll be mad at me for walking around here? Papa?

Old Man Linebeck was in his usual spot, where the ice is thick. And as usual, didn't want to be bothered. Surprisingly, he said he'd teach me to spear fish... but only a little, since I'm not paying. He was fuming every time I slipped up, but he said for a price he could teach me more. Did he enjoy fishing with somebody else or not?! I just can't read that guy!

...

For now, I'm just fine with the few salmon I managed to catch. This ought to get everyone's heads back in the right place.

A Fishy Situation (Complete)

Papa managed to start a fire and grilled the salmon I brought back for the workers (after I bothered him for a little while). He let me have some, too! It was sweet and savory. I feel all warm and fuzzy inside! So flaky and delicious...

...

Oh, and everyone seemed to calm down a little.

. . .

❄️ HEY! This section will be expanded as the story progresses! ❄️

Link

Hypothetical gameplay talk aside, here is the storyline in novelized form! Chapter 7 to be released in two parts between December of 2024 and January of 2025.

[zoesblogsposts]

o 625 words to know in your target language o

There is a really interesting blog called "Fluent Forever" that aids foreign language learners in tricks, tips and techniques to guide them to achieving fluency "quickly" and efficiently. One of the tricks is to learn these 625 vocab words in your target language, that way you have a basis to start delving into grammar with ease as you can understand a lot of vocab right off the bat. Plus this list of words are common across the world and will aid you in whatever language you are learning. Here is the list in thematic order

• Animal: dog, cat, fish, bird, cow, pig, mouse, horse, wing, animal

• Transportation: train, plane, car, truck, bicycle, bus, boat, ship, tire, gasoline, engine, (train) ticket, transportation

• Location: city, house, apartment, street/road, airport, train station, bridge hotel, restaurant, farm, court, school, office, room, town, university, club, bar, park, camp, store/shop, theater, library, hospital, church, market, country (USA,

France, etc.), building, ground, space (outer space), bank, location

• Clothing: hat, dress, suit, skirt, shirt, T-shirt, pants, shoes, pocket, coat, stain, clothing

• Color: red, green, blue (light/dark), yellow, brown, pink, orange, black, white, gray, color

• People: son, daughter, mother, father, parent (= mother/father), baby, man, woman, brother, sister, family, grandfather, grandmother, husband, wife, king, queen, president, neighbor, boy, girl, child (= boy/girl), adult (= man/woman), human (# animal), friend (Add a friend's name), victim, player, fan, crowd, person

• Job: Teacher, student, lawyer, doctor, patient, waiter, secretary, priest, police, army, soldier, artist, author, manager, reporter, actor, job

• Society: religion, heaven, hell, death, medicine, money, dollar, bill, marriage, wedding, team, race (ethnicity), sex (the act), sex (gender), murder, prison, technology, energy, war, peace, attack, election, magazine, newspaper, poison, gun, sport, race (sport), exercise, ball, game, price, contract, drug, sign, science, God

• Art. band, song, instrument (musical), music, movie, art

• Beverages: coffee, tea, wine, beer, juice, water, milk, beverage

• Food: egg, cheese, bread, soup, cake, chicken, pork, beef, apple, banana orange, lemon, corn, rice, oil, seed, knife, spoon, fork, plate, cup, breakfast, lunch, dinner, sugar, salt, bottle, food

• Home: table, chair, bed, dream, window, door, bedroom, kitchen, bathroom, pencil, pen, photograph, soap, book, page, key, paint, letter, note, wall, paper, floor, ceiling, roof, pool, lock, telephone, garden, yard, needle, bag, box, gift, card, ring, tool

• Electronics: clock, lamp, fan, cell phone, network, computer, program (computer), laptop, screen, camera, television, radio

• Body: head, neck, face, beard, hair, eye, mouth, lip, nose, tooth, ear, tear (drop), tongue, back, toe, finger, foot, hand, leg, arm, shoulder, heart, blood, brain, knee, sweat, disease, bone, voice, skin, body

• Nature: sea, ocean, river, mountain, rain, snow, tree, sun, moon, world, Earth, forest, sky, plant, wind, soil/earth, flower, valley, root, lake, star, grass, leaf, air, sand, beach, wave, fire, ice, island, hill, heat, nature

• Materials: glass, metal, plastic, wood, stone, diamond, clay, dust, gold, copper, silver, material

• Math/Measurements: meter, centimeter, kilogram, inch, foot, pound, half, circle, square, temperature, date, weight, edge, corner

• Misc Nouns: map, dot, consonant, vowel, light, sound, yes, no, piece, pain, injury, hole, image, pattern, noun, verb, adjective

• Directions: top, bottom, side, front, back, outside, inside, up, down, left, right, straight, north, south, east, west, direction

• Seasons: Summer, Spring, Winter, Fall, season

• Numbers: 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20 21, 22, 30, 31, 32, 40, 41, 42, 50, 51, 52, 60, 61, 62, 70, 71, 72, 80, 81, 82, 90, 91, 92, 100, 101, 102, 110, 111, 1000, 1001, 10000, 100000, million, billion, 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th, number

• Months: January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, December

• Days of the week: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday

• Time: year, month, week, day, hour, minute, second, morning, afternoon, evening, night, time

• Verbs: work, play, walk, run, drive, fly, swim, go, stop, follow, think, speak/say, eat, drink, kill, die, smile, laugh, cry, buy, pay, sell, shoot(a gun), learn, jump, smell, hear (a sound), listen (music), taste, touch, see (a bird), watch (TV), kiss, burn, melt, dig, explode, sit, stand, love, pass by, cut, fight, lie down, dance, sleep, wake up, sing, count, marry, pray, win, lose, mix/stir, bend, wash, cook, open, close, write, call, turn, build, teach, grow, draw, feed, catch, throw, clean, find, fall, push, pull, carry, break, wear, hang, shake, sign, beat, lift

• Adjectives: long, short (long), tall, short (vs tall), wide, narrow, big/large, small/little, slow, fast, hot, cold, warm, cool, new, old (new), young, old (young), weak, dead, alive, heavy, light (heavy), dark, light (dark), nuclear, famous

[theskeletonprior]

9 Lines, 9 Tags!

I was tagged both by @flowerprose and by @sunset-a-story so I'll supply 18 lines, but I will not be tagging twice as many people. That seems a bit excessive! Thank you both for thinking of me! These are the first 18 lines from a short story that I'm still tinkering with in which a wild king and a chimeric beast do battle and other such intimate things. Coming soon to an itch.io account near you! It just needs, oh, you know. Revisions. Edits. Formatting. Layout. But that's the life, isn't it?

King Pellinore was half-mad with searching. For years, his quarry had eluded him, and this year had thus far been no different. In the blistering summer, the beast had fled before him, its den a mystery as the fall withered all around him, and winter came with blasting ice and snow. It was spring when he picked up its trail again, pressed in the muddy ground. No other creature in all the world left tracks like the Questing Beast, though Pellinore's hunt had brought him across the path of countless others. No bear, no wild cat, no manticore, no dragon had gotten the better of him, but nothing he took mattered, if it was not the thing he had been born to kill. And thus, in this pursuit, though he had seen fen and forest of this beautiful world, it had shrunk, inch by inch, until there was no space in it for anything but himself and his prey. On those rare occasions when he encountered another person, he hardly knew how to speak to them, except to ask if they had seen it. Had they seen a beast with the head of a serpent? With back legs like a hind, and the tail of a lion? "Have you seen," he'd ask, "a monster in these woods?" And as they tried to answer, he could tell by looking at their eyes that they felt they were seeing one at that very moment. Pellinore could not imagine what he must look like anymore. He heard the river long before he saw it, where the beast had sat to drink, before crossing, though he did not see it on the other side. His mount, an old mare whose time was nearly done, snorted and pawed in the mud. "We'll have to find a ford," he rasped, ostensibly to the mare. "I mislike the look of this water. Too deep, and too murky."

Tagging @alexanderflowerbird @carmillasboywife @vacantgodling @void-botanist @ceph-the-ghost-writer @cream-and-tea @wintherlywords and anyone else who sees this and would like to participate! Please feel free to tag me in your response to the prompt.

And for those of you just passing through, a word from our sponsors (aka me in a funny hat with a cup in my hand): If you liked this excerpt and would like to tangibly support me in my work, I do have a ko-fi. I am also available for commissions. Thanks for reading!

[euphoriaishername]

Wrapped in the Gentle Snow's Embrace

Chapter One: The Princess of Elaria and the Whisper of Legends

The Kingdom of Elaria sat like a jewel along the eastern coast of the continent—its blue waters glimmering beneath the soft kiss of moonlight and its lush forests stretching into mountains that sparkled with frost by winter's edge. A gentle kingdom, beloved and respected, where music danced on the breeze and laughter was more common than thunder. But in the heart of this land lived a girl who carried the sea in her soul and snowflakes in her breath.

She was the people’s joy, their precious Princess. You are Princess Aera.

Aera, Princess of Elaria—barely eighteen, with a delicate frame, skin pale as moonlight, and eyes like warm autumn leaves. Your beauty was spoken of across the five realms, but it was not your face or gentle voice that left a mark. It was your magic.

Water obeyed you. Ice bloomed like petals at your fingertips. The rivers stilled when you stood beside them, and when you cried, even the skies joined you in weeping. You were a mystery. No royal before you had ever been born with power—certainly none so strong, so natural. You had never trained. You didn’t need to. Magic, it seemed, had simply chosen you.

But with great wonder came great sorrow. Years ago, your mother and father—King Aldric and Queen Seraphina—were lost to the sea during a diplomatic voyage. No body was recovered. No ship remained. Only your cries had frozen the bay when news reached you. You were ten then. Since that day, the royal council had shielded you, raising you gently, giving you time to grow into your role.

And now, eight years later, the Festival of the First Frost—a tradition of warmth, music, and celebration—was returning. For the first time since your parents’ passing, you would open the castle gates and welcome guests. Nobles would arrive. Lords and Ladies. Ambassadors. Artists. Musicians.

And perhaps… the legends.

For the invitation had gone, as always, to the rulers of the Great Lands—thirteen kings born of one bloodline. Thirteen miracles blessed by ancient magic. Powerful. Unmatched. Unapproachable.

The Kings of the Great Lands.

Far to the west, beyond golden deserts and roaring valleys, the Kingdom of Auroria stretched across nearly half the known world. It was not one land, but five great territories governed by five sets of royal brothers. All of them were sons of one bloodline, descended from the hero king who once saved a powerful witch from death.

In her gratitude, she gave him magic. Magic that passed on like a divine inheritance, touching his sons, his grandsons, and now—the thirteen mighty kings. They were loved. They were feared. They were everything.

The first set of brothers:

King Seungcheol, eldest and High King of them all, ruled with unmatched strength. His body was built like a warrior’s—broad, powerful—and his power was just the same. Super strength. He could lift boulders like feathers and protect his brothers with a single arm. Yet beneath the muscle was a patient heart. He laughed easily. He listened more than he spoke. He called his brothers “my boys” despite their strength.

“Get over here, you little brat,” he’d say, ruffling Chan’s hair even as the youngest protested.

King Jeonghan, graceful and cunning, was born with the gift of illusion. He could bend perception, twist reality just enough to trick the eye. His beauty was ethereal—long pale hair, lips always curled in a smirk.

“Didn’t I already walk in this room?” a courtier might ask. And Jeonghan would just smile.

“Did you?”

He was a favorite among the people—especially children, who adored his playful magic tricks. But he was also sharp as a blade, always three steps ahead.

King Joshua, the King of Light, ruled not just with elegance, but with a quiet wisdom. His golden hair seemed to shimmer even in shade, his eyes calm and warm. Light bent to his will—he could brighten darkness, summon rays of warmth, create blinding illusions or gentle glows.

He was the most serene among them.

He often stood alone at sunrise, letting the light wrap around him like a second skin.

"Morning is the most honest time," he’d say. “No secrets survive the light.”

The second set:

King Jihoon, master of sound, ruled with silence. Small but powerful, his magic allowed him to amplify a whisper or silence an army. His voice could become thunder. Or lull a beast to sleep. Music was his language.

“Too loud,” he’d mutter, flicking a finger—and the room would fall quiet in an instant.

King Soonyoung, a spark in human form, controlled fire. Fiery in personality too, with eyes that burned with excitement, and a laugh that lit up rooms. He danced with flames like they were partners, twirling swords of fire with ease.

“You're staring again,” he’d say to his flame, grinning. “Can’t blame you, I’m pretty hot.”

The third set:

King Mingyu, tall and handsome, had power over metal. He could bend swords, break armor, pull iron from stone. The blacksmiths adored him.

He often forged his own weapons and had a heart bigger than his biceps. He loved to cook and to tease the others endlessly.

King Wonwoo, the quiet observer, could grow plants, control earth, and feel the roots of the world. Books were his world—when he wasn’t tending gardens taller than mansions.

He could grow a tree with a whisper, cause flowers to bloom from cracks in stone.

“Life listens,” he once told Seungkwan, “if you speak with patience.”

King Seokmin, radiant and warm, could control solar and lunar energy. He could summon beams of sun or cast shadows like midnight. A balance of cheer and mystery.

He sang often. Laughed louder than all.

“The moon needs the sun,” he once said, smiling at Minghao. “But I think we both need cake.”

The fourth set:

King Minghao, healer and calm soul, touched life with his hands. Healing magic. His presence was peaceful. When he smiled, pain seemed to fade.

He rarely spoke, but when he did—it mattered.

“Even thorns want to be held gently,” he told Jun once, bandaging a wound.

King Jun, the acrobat. Body enhancement and agility. He moved like water and struck like a whip. He could climb walls, leap across rooftops, dodge arrows with ease. Flirty and sweet, he adored making others laugh.

“I’ll race you to the top of that mountain,” he often teased.

“And then back down for dinner!”

The fifth set:

King Hansol, bearer of wind, lived between breaths. He could summon gales, lift himself into the air, steal the air from a room.

Quiet, thoughtful, but deadly in battle. His wind could carry music... or knives.

“Don’t mistake peace for weakness,” he said once, as his winds lifted entire ships across seas.

King Seungkwan, seer and mind-reader. He could hear thoughts and glimpse shadows of the future. It made him tired, sometimes. Distant.

But he was the most protective.

He heard their fears. He saw what might come.

And he used it to shield his brothers, every day.

King Chan, youngest, carried the storm. Lightning. Energy and electricity. He crackled with power, his laughter always loudest, his energy endless.

He could summon storms with a scream or light a hall with his fingers.

“I’m not a baby,” he’d grumble—before launching himself into Hoshi’s arms for fun.

Thirteen kings. One dynasty. One bloodline.

[mcytadventevent]

@twice-past is creating for Day Eighteen:

Prompt: Snowed-In

Their piece is written, featuring BigB!

Credit Links: https://www.tumblr.com/twice-past https://archiveofourown.org/users/twice_past/pseuds/twice_past

(Piece under the cut!)

Winter comes early that year, heralded by an axe, a death, a king. 

Snow presses on the glass insistently, desperate, grasping hands searching for warmth. When BigB pushes the door to the Cookie Castle experimentally, it doesn’t budge a single centimetre. From what little he can see, the rest of the server has suffered a similar fate as him.

He is glad to have a break from the chaos– the image of red eyes is burning itself into his retinas. He’s much more in favour of the Christmas shade - the one that promises joy and laughter and good cheer. It means evenings spent in the Mafia HQ dipping cookies in hot chocolates. It means snowball fights with the Property Police ‘til they all collapse laughing. It meant gifts and warmth and friendship. It seems it doesn’t anymore.

He misses Mini, misses their misadventures, their schemes, their twin grins upon a successful prank. He misses Jimmy and Martyn and Grian too, the versions of them unburdened by the Red, by this world. Grian has long been lost to the rush and bloodshed of Scar’s adoration; Jimmy’s eyes simmer with flame;. Martyn is loyal to a king draped in scarlet. 

So is BigB, of course. But he had joined for friendship and stayed for the camaraderie of the army. He can no longer tell what Martyn wants; because though his eyes shine green, his heart glows red. Perhaps he has been lost to admiration too.

BigB sometimes thinks that he’s barely holding on to himself. Sometimes he imagines that he hasn’t changed all that much. Sometimes he doesn’t recognise himself in the mirror with his diamond armour pristine, his shield shined, hair dragged out of his face by a red headband, eyes colder than they were before.

He wears green like a cloak of holly leaves and Christmas wreaths, while red surges around him, a flowing river  dancing in the eyes of his enemies, in the eyes of his friends. 

There is no use in trying to break down the door, and he’s secluded enough on the mountain that no one will find him, at least this morning. But, he might be able to sleep away the bone deep exhaustion that clings to him like frostbite if he takes a nap. He can only hope.

When he drifts off, he dreams of a swirling mass of reds and greens, a pine forest in a storm of scarlet, and opens his eyes to hear that the red has claimed three lives.

--

Winter doesn’t end, but those who herald it fall under a rain of arrows, so BigB is left alone. The solitude looms above him, a hulking creature of snow and ice and frost.

He has the clarity of mind to pull the no kill pass from its frame above the staircase, gripping the lifeline as he leaves the Cookie Castle. He draws the weather around himself, a reminder of his lost friends that strengthens his resolve.

The red seethes in his veins, threatens to wrap around the throat of his enemies and  bring the server under his wrath. It’s irrational; fear and anger and isolation all braided into a single rope. BigB has seen it all before.

Is this how it ends? 

He goes out with a deception and cactus spines in his back, the no kill pass tucked into his palm.

When Grian falls, so do the first flurries of snow, flooding the grass where BigB had made his last stand, slain in the mud of the lake. With each falling flake the damage is swarmed under a miasma of crystalline snow, piling up layer by intricate layer.

A gale builds in the silence, wind howling through the castles and tunnels and the hollow absences where players once lived. Roofs are peeled away, nails ripped from wooden planks, walls crumble inwards. The snow only flurries harder and heavier.

The sun sets; the moon rises. Still the storm does not stop.

Is this how it ends? 

Rain thunders, the river swells and bursts at the banks washing away the stain of Cleo’s blood. The platform above Dogwarts splinters then cracks, sweeping their lives and livelihoods away. Snow and sand mingle, weighing upon the bunker’s roof until the pillars collapse, crushing the canary’s wings. 

It is almost as if no one had stepped foot here. A new sun beats down, erases the snow that erased the players. BigB, frozen in his ice cocoon, does not awake where he fell. He dreams of an endless void and opens his eyes in an unfamiliar world.

This is how it ends. The cycle begins again.

[morganatic-if]

DEMO

Morganatic is an in-development work of gothic romance set in a fantastical realm.

Fae have as many names as areas of patronage. The Algid: the whisper of fast falling snow, the hunger of howling gales scouring tundra bare, the glint of glacial ice. Winter is under his dominion. The cardinal embodiment of the North has long presided over lands bordered by the St. Marie and the St. Laurent, twin rivers flowing over powerful leylines. As the youngest child of a disgraced noble family, there was little room to negotiate when he named his price for continued benevolent rule. As tithe to a king before kings: a bride. But Andrei Daddano is no woman, and he will be no wife.

Last Update: ~4.3k update / 10,628 words total [Feb 4 2024]

[pipedreame]

DPxDC WIP — Conceal, Don’t Feel

(official continuation of this prompt post)

Pairings: Jason/Danny, Tim/Bernard, Dick/Wally

Idea: Frozen/Rise of the Guardians AU

Okay the brain worms won out so official new WIP here we go!

Jason is Elsa, Danny is Jack Frost

Basic premise is that Jason was abandoned as a young child and the Spirits gifted him with powers to help him stay alive after they witnessed him helping a young reindeer (no he does not adopt it lmao) and he’s eventually taken in by Bruce Wayne, King of Arendelle Gotham

His powers are a shock to Bruce, but they seem harmless enough and he mostly uses them to make little trinkets or mini snow storms/flurries when his emotions are high

He gains more control as he gets older and Dick and Tim are always asking him to make more action figures and slides and whatnot and he’s more than happy to comply, enjoying making his brothers happy

Until one night (ages are roughly: Dick 12, Jason 7, Tim 5) there’s an accident with Timmy jumping too fast on the pillars Jason was creating for him and he falls and Jason reaches out with too much power that hits his brother square in the chest

Dick runs to get Bruce as Jason cradles Tim who’s passed out and cold as ice and Jason is so, so scared

Bruce takes them all to John Constantine who is a hermit in the woods with lots of magical and arcane knowlege

He is able to heal Tim but he makes it very clear that Jason could have killed him and that if he continued to use his powers without tight control he could kill someone else

They’re all shaken enough to take this as meaning that Jason should just… never use his powers. Conceal, don’t feel, don’t let them show

So life goes on and Jason locks himself away in his room most of the time (Bruce does not shut down the castle though — they just keep Jason’s powers a secret like usual). Tim doesn’t remember the accident or the fact that Jason has powers so he’s confused and hurt and Dick is worried about Jason but follows Bruce and his lead and doesn’t talk about it and tells Tim that Jason is just sick and needs his space

Their family grows as Bruce takes in Damian (Talia died when he was about 2, Bruce didn’t even know about him until the kid showed up at the Palace doors with a letter explaining the situation), and adopts Cass and Duke.

Babs is the daughter of the Captain of the Guard and Dick’s best friend so is basically part of the family and Steph (a street rat, daughter of a criminal) got attached to Tim and basically lives in the palace (but is NOT Bruce’s daughter, she reminds them all constantly). Other batfam members come in and out as they please lol

Bruce is presumed dead when Jason is 16 and Dick takes the throne at 21. Things are a bit tense but Dick has a solid support system and things go relatively smoothly, but Jason is having a harder time controlling his powers and emotions

Cut to his 18th birthday when he’s to get Crowned as Prince (I know this may be incorrect but I also Do Not care how monarchies work <3 — Maybe it could be Dick’s official Coronation or smth to make it easier, idc)

He really fucking doesn’t want to, but he also wants to act normal and make Dick proud so he suffers through it

Needless to say it goes terribly and ends with him basically turning the ballroom into ice and setting an eternal winter on all of Gotham as he flees to the mountains

Tim (who kind of set Jason off) tells Dick he’s going to track him down. (After a quick run-down explanation from Dick who is Stressed and Tim is so pissed that he didn’t remember the accident and that Jason felt the need to isolate himself — and that Bruce let him and convinced Dick it was for the best)

Dick goes with him and leaves the Kingdom in the capable hands of his Advisor (Babs) and Consort (Wally) and Alfred

They left very fast and aren’t the Most prepared and it’s a bit of a shitshow trek (cue Tim falling into a river trying to mimic Dick’s stupid gymnast moves and Dick getting a tree full of snow dumped on him for laughing) but they eventually make to to a little trading post (‘Look, Tim, they have a sauna!’) and are immediately recognized as Royalty and are getting products shoved at them left and right

Enter Bernard, local ice harvester, who is covered in snow and already annoyed at the Royal Roadshow when he needs to buy some real supplies

Tim and he immediately start bickering and when Dick overhears that Bernard knows the mountain he asks him to be their guide, much to both Tim and Bernard’s immediate refusals. But Dick offers a lot of money and Bernard caves

Meanwhile Jason has found himself collapsing in the snow and finally lets himself have the emotional release that he’s been holding in and his magic goes nuts creating things and he finds himself in a giant ice fortress, which, rad

What’s not rad is the freaky guy who shows up inside said fortress and starts poking around at both the ice and at Jason

It’s Danny, AKA Phantom Frost from the Legends

Now, Danny has been around for a century or two as a Winter Spirit and then became a Guardian when he kicked Pariah Dark’s ass back to the Eternal Darkness a couple hundred years ago. (Pariah Dark = Pitch Black/the Boogeyman)

He doesn’t remember his mortal life and no one is sure if he actually ever had a life Before or if he’s a manifestation of Magic herself. That rumor mixed with his defeat of Pariah leaves him revered among the Spirits and Guardians alike and he doesn’t love it because they often come to him with problems as if he can fix them (he does, every time)

He’s known as Phantom Frost but his closer friends call him Danny - the name he came into this world instinctively knowing as himself even when everything else was missing. (Maybe his squad can be Spirits/Guardians too? hmmm.)

Things have been quiet for a couple of decades and then one day his instinctual alarm bells start going off telling him that something is wrong and Unbalanced with Winter so he goes to investigate

He finds out that an Eternal Winter has been set on the Kingdom of Gotham and discovers a truly spectacular fortress built from ice in the mountains north of the kingdom

He goes inside and meets Jason who has clearly been Gifted by Magic herself and is so Unbalanced within his own soul that it makes Danny shiver

He knows he needs to help the guy and ends up showing off some of his own powers and gaining a bit of trust from Jason who ends up telling him the rundown of what led up to this and Danny is Pissed (and confused on how he had never known about Jason throughout the years) and vows to help him learn how to properly control his powers without trying to shut them off and harm his soul

After a bit of training and huge improvements with Jason’s abilities, Dick and Tim (and Bernard) come to find him and when Jason figures out he set off an Eternal Winter (Danny did Not inform him of that fact) he kind of spirals and ends up lashing out at Tim for the second time in his life and Danny has to calm him down so they can Fix the situation

Dick is (rightfully) freaking the fuck out and doesn’t trust Danny all the way so Danny agrees to go with them to visit their local Hermit/Arcane Expert to get a second opinion and who, from what Danny heard from Jason, deserves an ass kicking anyway (it’s John Constantine and he’d been the person Bruce took Tim to when the first accident happened and who had basically convinced them all to fear Jason’s powers and led to him trying to pretend they didn’t exist)

John Constantine is So Tired

Meeting Phantom Frost is overwhelming enough, but having to yet again deal with a Wayne level Situation… he feels like maybe he should move

But he helps, calling on Magic and finding the situation much more dire than any of them thought

He tells them the solution and they all pretty much laugh in his face (all except Phantom, who knows Magic better than John could ever even hope to and who wouldn’t dare laugh or scoff at Her power)

Only an act of True Love can thaw the ice that has set in Tim’s heart

aaaaand… to be continued ;)

[fairyofthefriz]

King of Winter, King of Rivers; King of Ice and Snow

“Sit still and let me attend you,” Daeryn scolded her.  Alys spoke for her brother, but at this point she needn’t bother – Daeryn signed the same thing at Sansa hourly.  She knew what these handsigns meant by the end of the first day in camp, and it was now day five on the road.   

“We must move on,” Sansa told him firmly, remaining eye searching the sky for her birds.  The empty hole of the other ached.

"We don’t need to rush, my princess,” Alysanne said gently

All of the links

[juliaqueendragon]

Full List of Names Pre-2025-02-12

Comparison (Names only in 1st or 2nd Position down Below)

A 

Abyss 

Acacia 

Ace 

Agate 

Air 

Alpha 

Amber 

Amethyst 

Ancient 

Angel 

Anti 

Apocalypse 

Apple 

Aqua 

Aquamarine 

Arch 

Arctic 

Ash 

Attack 

Aurora 

Autumn 

Azure 

Baby 

Ball 

Banana 

Basalt 

Bat 

Bay 

Bear 

Beat 

Bee 

Berry 

Beryl 

Big 

Birch 

Bird 

Blaze 

Blind 

Block 

Blue 

Bold 

Book 

Botanic 

Bottle 

Boulder 

Bow 

Box 

Brain 

Bramble 

Brass 

Brave 

Bread 

Breath 

Breeze 

Bright 

Brilliant 

Broken 

Bronze 

Bubble 

Bullet 

Bumble 

Butter 

Butterly 

Cactus 

Cake 

Candle 

Candy 

Caramel 

Carrot 

Cash 

Castle 

Cat 

Chance 

Chaos 

Charcoal 

Charm 

Cherry 

Chestnut 

Chip 

Chocolate 

Chunky 

Cinder 

Cinnamon 

Citrine 

Clash 

Class 

Classy 

Clear 

Clever 

Cloud 

Clover 

Club 

Coal 

Coco 

Cocoa 

Coconut 

Coffee 

Cold 

Color 

Cookie 

Cool 

Copper 

Coral 

Core 

Corn 

Coyote 

Crazy 

Crescent 

Crimson 

Crow 

Crown 

Crystal 

Cup 

Cupcake 

Cute 

Daisy 

Dance 

Danger 

Dark 

Darkness 

Dash 

Dawn 

Day 

Deep 

Deer 

Demon 

Depth 

Desert 

Dew 

Diamond 

Dice 

Dip 

Disco 

Dive 

Divine 

Dizzy 

Doctor 

Dog 

Dollar 

Dolphin 

Domino 

Donut 

Doom 

Double 

Dragon 

Drake 

Dream 

Drop 

Druid 

Drum 

Duke 

Dusk 

Dust 

Dusty 

E 

Eagle 

Earth 

East 

Easter 

Echo 

Eclipse 

Egg 

Elder 

Ember 

Emerald 

Epic 

Evening 

Ever 

Extra 

Fairy 

Faith 

Falcon 

Fan 

Fancy 

Fantasy 

Far 

Farm 

Fast 

Fern 

Field 

Fire 

Flame 

Flash 

Flower 

Fluffy 

Flutter 

Fly 

Force 

Fortune 

Fox 

Freedom 

Frenzy 

Fresh 

Frog 

Frost 

Fruit 

Future 

Galaxy 

Game 

Garden 

Garnet 

Gem 

Ghost 

Giga 

Ginger 

Glass 

Glitter 

Globe 

Gloom 

Glory 

Glow 

Gold 

Grace 

Grand 

Grass 

Gray 

Great 

Green 

Griffin 

Grim 

Ground 

Guardian 

Hair 

Hall 

Hand 

Harpy 

Hawk 

Hay 

Hazel 

Heat 

Heaven 

Heavy 

Hero 

Hollow 

Holly 

Home 

Honey 

Horse 

Hour 

Humming 

Ice 

Illusion 

Indigo 

Iron 

Ivory 

Jade 

Jasper 

Jazz 

Jelly 

Jewel 

Juice 

Jump 

June 

Jungle 

Juniper 

Jute 

Kangaroo 

Key 

Kick 

King 

Kite 

Knight 

Koala 

Lady 

Lake 

Land 

Lavender 

Leaf 

Leather 

Legend 

Lemon 

Life 

Light 

Lily 

Lime 

Lion 

Little 

Live 

Lost 

Love 

Lucky 

Luna 

Lush 

Magic 

Magma 

Marble 

Maroon 

Marzipan 

Masked 

Master 

May 

Maze 

Mega 

Melody 

Melon 

Memory 

Metal 

Meteor 

Midnight 

Milk 

Mind 

Mini 

Mint 

Miracle 

Mirror 

Mist 

Mocking 

Money 

Moon 

Morning 

Moss 

Mountain 

Mouse 

Movie 

Music 

Mystic 

Myth 

Nacho 

Nature 

Nebula 

Night 

Ninja 

Noble 

North 

Nova 

Nugget 

Oak 

Obsidian 

Ocean 

Octopus 

Old 

Olive 

Onion 

Onyx 

Opal 

Orange 

Orchid 

Osprey 

Owl 

Paladin 

Pale 

Panda 

Paper 

Park 

Party 

Peace 

Peach 

Pearl 

Penguin 

Pepper 

Peridot 

Phantom 

Phoenix 

Pie 

Pine 

Pink 

Pirate 

Pixel 

Pop 

Posh 

Potato 

Power 

Proof 

Pumpkin 

Purple 

Purpur 

Quail 

Quartz 

Quest 

Quick 

Rain 

Rainbow 

Ranger 

Raspberry 

Raven 

Red 

Rich 

River 

Robin 

Rock 

Root 

Rose 

Row 

Royal 

Ruby 

Rune 

Sad 

Saddle 

Salt 

Sand 

Sapphire 

Scarlet 

Scary 

Scroll 

Sea 

Sequoia 

Set 

Shade 

Shadow 

Shark 

Ship 

Sienna 

Silent 

Silver 

Sky 

Small 

Snake 

Snow 

Soft 

Solid 

Solo 

Song 

Soul 

Sound 

South 

Spark 

Sparkle 

Spell 

Spider 

Spirit 

Sporty 

Spotlight 

Spring 

Spruce 

Squirrel 

Star 

Steam 

Steel 

Step 

Stone 

Storm 

Strawberry 

Sugar 

Summer 

Sun 

Sunny 

Sunrise 

Sunset 

Swamp 

Sweet 

Swift 

Table 

Tea 

Thorn 

Thunder 

Tiger 

Time 

Tin 

Tiny 

Titan 

Tooth 

Topaz 

Town 

Trail 

Tree 

Trouble 

Truth 

Tsunami 

Tulip 

Turtle 

Tuxedo 

Twilight 

Twin 

Twinkle 

Ultra 

Umber 

Un 

Unicorn 

Vanilla 

Violet 

Voice 

Void 

Wall 

Walnut 

Walrus 

Water 

Wave 

Way 

Weather 

Web 

West 

Wild 

Willow 

Wind 

Wing 

Winter 

Wish 

Witch 

Wizard 

Wolf 

Wonder 

Wood 

World 

Yam 

Yellow 

Yoga 

Youth 

Yule 

Zap 

Zebra 

Zombie 

Ace 

Agate 

Air 

Amber 

Anchor 

Angel 

Anthem 

Apocalypse 

Apple 

Apricot 

Aquamarine 

Attack 

Aura 

Away 

Bag 

Band 

Bank 

Beach 

Beam 

Bean 

Bear 

Beat 

Beauty 

Bee 

Bell 

Belle 

Berg 

Berry 

Beryl 

Bird 

Birth 

Biscuit 

Blaze 

Block 

Blood 

Blossom 

Blue 

Board 

Bolt 

Bone 

Book 

Born 

Bottle 

Boulder 

Bow 

Box 

Boy 

Brain 

Bramble 

Brass 

Bread 

Break 

Breath 

Breeze 

Broken 

Bronze 

Brook 

Brother 

Bubble 

Buddy 

Bug 

Bullet 

Butter 

Butterfly 

Cactus 

Cake 

Candle 

Candy 

Caramel 

Care 

Cash 

Caster 

Catcher 

Cave 

Chain 

Champion 

Chance 

Charm 

Chaser 

Cherry 

Chestnut 

Chief 

Child 

Chip 

Chocolate 

Chunk 

Citrine 

Clash 

Class 

Clear 

Cloud 

Clover 

Club 

Cocoa 

Color 

Comet 

Cookie 

Copper 

Core 

Corn 

Craft 

Crasher 

Crescent 

Crimson 

Cross 

Crow 

Crown 

Crumb 

Crush 

Cry 

Crystal 

Cube 

Cup 

Cupcake 

Dale 

Dancer 

Danger 

Dark 

Dark 

Darling 

Dash 

Dawn 

Deep 

Deer 

Demon 

Desert 

Desire 

Destiny 

Dew 

Diamond 

Dice 

Dip 

Disco 

Diver 

Divine 

Dollar 

Dolphin 

Dome 

Doom 

Dove 

Dragon 

Drake 

Dream 

Dreamer 

Drink 

Drop 

Druid 

Drummer 

Duck 

Duke 

Dusk 

Dust 

Eagle 

Earth 

Echo 

Eclipse 

Effect 

Egg 

Escape 

Eye 

Fairy 

Faith 

Falcon 

Fall 

Fan 

Farm 

Father 

Feather 

Field 

Fighter 

Film 

Finder 

Fire 

Fish 

Flake 

Flame 

Flash 

Flight 

Floor 

Flower 

Fly 

Flyer 

Force 

Form 

Fortune 

Frame 

Free 

Friend 

Frost 

Fruit 

Future 

Gait 

Galaxy 

Game 

Gap 

Garden 

Garnet 

Gate 

Gaze 

Gazer 

Gem 

Ghost 

Gift 

Girl 

Glass 

Glimmer 

Globe 

Gloom 

Glory 

Glow 

Goal 

Goat 

Gold 

Grace 

Green 

Griffin 

Ground 

Growth 

Guard 

Guardian 

Guest 

Gum 

Habitat 

Hair 

Hall 

Hand 

Harmony 

Harpy 

Hat 

Hawk 

Hazel 

Head 

Heart 

Heat 

Heaven 

Herb 

Hero 

Hill 

Hollow 

Home 

Honey 

Honor 

Hoof 

Hope 

Horse 

Hour 

Humming 

Hunter 

Hurricane 

Hype 

Ice 

Icon 

Idol 

Ie 

Ivory 

Jasper 

Jazz 

Jewel 

Joke 

Joker 

Joy 

Juice 

Jump 

Jumper 

Jungle 

Juniper 

Kangaroo 

Keeper 

Key 

Kick 

Kid 

King 

Kiss 

Kite 

Knight 

Knock 

Koala 

Lady 

Lake 

Land 

Lavender 

Leader 

Leaf 

Legend 

Lemon 

Less 

Letter 

Liberty 

Life 

Light 

Lily 

Lime 

Lin 

Ling 

Lion 

Live 

Log 

Loop 

Lord 

Love 

Luck 

Lucky 

Lush 

Ly 

Machine 

Madness 

Magic 

Man 

Mane 

Maniac 

Mare 

Mark 

Maroon 

Mask 

Masked 

Master 

Matter 

Maze 

Meadow 

Melody 

Melon 

Memory 

Metal 

Milk 

Mind 

Mint 

Mirror 

Mist 

Mocking 

Mode 

Moment 

Monster 

Moon 

Mother 

Mountain 

Movie 

Music 

Mystery 

Mystic 

Myth 

Nature 

Nebula 

Ninja 

Nova 

Novel 

Nugget 

O 

Oak 

Oasis 

Ocean 

Octopus 

Omen 

Onion 

Orange 

Orb 

Orchid 

Osprey 

Owl 

Pair 

Paladin 

Panda 

Paper 

Park 

Part 

Party 

Path 

Peak 

Pearl 

Penguin 

Pepper 

Peridot 

Petal 

Phantom 

Phoenix 

Pie 

Piece 

Pine 

Pink 

Pirate 

Pixel 

Place 

Plan 

Planet 

Plant 

Play 

Pop 

Potential 

Power 

Price 

Prince 

Princess 

Promise 

Proof 

Pumpkin 

Punk 

Purple 

Purpose 

Quake 

Quartz 

Queen 

Quest 

Quiver 

Rabbit 

Racer 

Rain 

Rainbow 

Rambler 

Range 

Ranger 

Raspberry 

Ray 

Reader 

Rebel 

Red 

Respect 

Rest 

Rich 

Rider 

Ring 

Rising 

River 

Road 

Robin 

Rock 

Rocket 

Role 

Root 

Rose 

Row 

Royal 

Ruby 

Runner 

Saga 

Sand 

Scout 

Scroll 

Secret 

Seeker 

Sequoia 

Set 

Shade 

Shadow 

Shell 

Shelter 

Shimmer 

Shine 

Ship 

Shore 

Shout 

Shy 

Signal 

Silence 

Silver 

Singer 

Sister 

Sky 

Smash 

Smoke 

Snap 

Snout 

Snow 

Solid 

Solo 

Song 

Soul 

Spark 

Sparkle 

Spell 

Spice 

Spider 

Spirit 

Splash 

Spot 

Squirrel 

Stallion 

Star 

Steel 

Step 

Stone 

Storm 

Strawberry 

Stream 

Strider 

String 

Sunrise 

Sunset 

Surfer 

Surprise 

[iceywolf24]

I love how since the Old Gods are linked to many elements they represent a different quality of Bran

"The stone is strong, Bran told himself, the roots of the trees go deep, and under the ground the Kings of Winter sit their thrones." - Bran VII ACOK

"The Strongest trees are rooted in the darkest places of the world" - Bran III ADWD

Earth represents growth and strength showing how Bran can endure anything.

"Rivers turn and twist," Bran said uncertainly, "and where there's lakes and hills, you need to go around." - Bran I ADWD

Water represents fluidity as shown in Bran's abilities to inhabitant a hundred skins and adapt.

"Who do you think sends the wind, if not the gods?" - Bran VI AGOT

Winds represent words, communication and comfort.

"And through the mist of centuries the broken boy could only watch" - Bran III ADWD

A crescent moon was floating in a dark sky, half-obscured by mist, like an eye peering through a veil of silk

He had never seen the godswood like this, though—grey and ghostly, filled with warm mists and floating lights and whispered voices that seemed to come from everywhere and nowhere. - The Prince of Winterfell ADWD

Mist represents time but also invisibility for Bran.

Fire consumes, but cold preserves - Samwell III AFF

"The gods have turned against us," old Lord Locke was heard to say in the Great Hall. "This is their wroth. A wind as cold as hell itself and snows that never end. We are cursed." - The Turncloak ADWD

Ice preserves like the Old Gods preserve the forgotten past.

Ice can also be a storm sent to bring vengeance or justice.

[kingmagnificoofrosas]

Midnight King

Beauty and grace, handsome face.

Eyes like early morning skies, deep as oceans, reflecting love, batting lashes tender like a flying dove.

Heart as fierce as a lion, gentle like a breeze, so kind yet easy to break. Hiding away all the pain and the fear, longing for someone to understand, someone he could allow near.

Tall elegance, majestic with each step, proudly striding ahead.

A smile warm like golden rays of the sun, a mysterious gleam like the beam of the moon. Shining north star, pedal of a rose. Flooded nightsky, twinkling stars, planets and glaxies, soul full of scars.

Hair silver like a winter river, ice and snow, like slate stone, agate, marble, like diamonts, grey clouds bringing rain to a desert, soft like silk gloves.

Misunderstood hero, only wanted what is good. Safety and happiness, but weakend by that fear, and there was this book.

Danger and evil, looming darkness, treacherous call, waiting for its prey to trip up and fall.

He wasn't himself, It wasn't his fault, poor wounded soul so desperate for a hold.

Soul now trapped, evil took control, down below kicking and screaming, hoping for someone to see. Pleading - Please end my misery!

Betrayed, used, left alone and given up upon, it wasn't him but them who broke his crown.

Liar, monster, beast was their call, traitor and villian they said, they didn't understand at all.

Selfless dream, once made so good and pure, he gave so much, thought his way of protecting would be the cure. Paranoid, driven by that fear, his past a never ending nighmare, "It can never happen again!" so he held the wishes near.

The shadows of the past ever present. Echo of death, wails and screams, tormenting stench of smoke choking steams. Piercing pain, like a thousand swords, cutting through his soul like hurricane storms.

He never wanted to do this, swore he'd never do this, but they didn't understand what trauma can do, it was this that forced him to that book, that is what's true.

The child once stripped of everything, they didn't see him still drowning in the excruciating pain within.

And there they were thinking they did everything right, while he was further caught, trapped in this endless night. Deaf to his pleas and cries, why wouldn't they understand? Because their hearts were like ice. Selfish and greedy, ungrateful and respectless. Undeserving of his altruismn, his benevolence, for this magnificent gem was far too precious for all of them.

|| Poem written by me ||

[pompomqt]

Journey to the West Chapter 48

Traders: The ice is totally thick enough to walk on. *Wink Wink*

The Pilgrims:

In this chapter of Journey to the West with @journeythroughjourneytothewest we get to find out how Pigsy and Monkey's sacrifice gambit turns out. So let's get into it shall we?

So Pigsy and Monkey are disguised as the young children of the Chen family to be sacrificed to the 'Great King of Numinous Power'. The villagers set everything up as they usually do, before leaving Pigsy and Monkey to deal with the situation. Pigsy is all for leaving with the villagers, but Monkey reminds them why they are here. Turns out Pigsy though Monkey was joking about the whole being sacrificed in the kid's place thing.' Monkey however is determined to see this through to the end.

Before the two of them can argue more, the Demon of the Week shows up, and Monkey tells Pigsy to let him do all the talking. Which turns out to be a mistake on Pigsy's part as Monkey is so nonchalant about the whole being sacrificed and eaten thing, that he freaks the demon out enough that he decides to eat the girl first instead. Pigsy of course freaks out about this. And as soon as the demon starts to reach for him, he returns to his true form and gives him a wack with his rake, and manages to knock some fish scales off the demon.

The demon didn't come here expecting a fight, so he quickly decides to exit stage left pursued by Monkey and Pig. The Demon demands to know why these two are chasing him around and robbing him of his offerings. And Monkey brazenly answers by saying they are the Disciples of the Great Tang Monk, here to punish the demon for all his wrongdoings. This simply solidifies the Demon's decision to bail, so before Pigsy can get in one last hit with his rake, the demon turns into a gust of wind and returns to the river. Monkey's never cared to follow a foe into a body of water, so they decide to head back to the village and tell everyone the good news.

So Monkey gives Tripitaka the recap of what happens, and the old men are thrilled that their children are safe, and offer to host the pilgrims for another night. Meanwhile the demon's homecoming wasn't as nice. The other demon's notice that he's in a bit of a mood, which is strange since he usually loves the yearly sacrifice! The Demon King explains that while he's usually able to bring them all back some left overs, he didn't even get anything himself this time! Since the disciples of the Tang Monk disguised themselves as his sacrifices and chased him off. And while he'd love to eat the Tang Monk he's heard so much about, he has no idea how he could do that with Monkey and Pigsy guarding him.

Luckily one of his demon entourage has an idea on how to go about this, all she asks is that he share in the bounty if the plan succeeds. The Demon King agrees and says he'll even become her bond brother. So the demoness asks if the Demon King can summon snow like he does other type of weather, and if he can create ice and freeze things. The Demon King confirms that that is all included in his power set. So the Demoness suggests that they freeze over the river, and have some of their fellow demon's disguise themselves as humans and walk across it to show Tripitaka that it is safe to cross. And once the Pilgrims get to the middle of the river, they can bust through the ice and grab him. The Demon King gives his thumbs up to this plan and starts the snow storm.

Meanwhile the pilgrims are having a very cold night at the Chen's house, and wake up to find the village has transformed into a winter wonderland. Tripitaka asks the Chen's about the unusual weather, but they assure him that snow isn't to uncommon here at this time of year. Tripitaka begins to cry because this journey is taking forever, he had hoped to be back like- four years ago. And he had been hoping to borrow a boat from them to cross the river, but now they are going to be delayed on their journey even further. The Chen's try and assure him that a few more days isn't going to make or break the journey and that they'll help him get across once the ice melts.

So the pilgrims spend a nice day with the Chen's with lots of warm tea and wine while they wax poetics about the beauty of snow. By the end of the day however they start hearing rumors that the river has frozen over and people are now walking across it. Tripitaka immediately wants to investigate but the Chen's persuade him that it can wait until morning.

So the next morning they investigate the river as promised and see that people are indeed crossing it. So Tripitaka asks Chen where those people are going, and Chen explains that they must be traders heading for Western Kingdom of Women. Which definitely sounds like the kind of place our Pilgrims are going to end up later. Anyways since boats are limited the traders must be taking this opportunity to cross all at once. Tripitaka also wants to take this opportunity to cross, but Sandy and the Chen's try and persuade him not to risk it, and just stay here until the ice melts instead. Pigsy then buts in and say's that he'll just test the ice, so he gives it a good wack with his rake. Seeing that it didn't break, Pigsy gives Tripitaka the go ahead and say's it's safe to walk on.

So Tripitaka gives his goodbye's the Chen's and they offer him some rations. They also try and give him a tray full of gold and silver as thanks for saving their children, but Tripitaka refuses it since he's a monk and all. The two old men however are so insistent about it that eventually Monkey takes a single silver piece just so the old men won't feel bad about it. Pigsy also gets some straw from the family to winter proof their horse's hooves. And it seems that Pigsy actually has some knowledge about how to transverse ice. Since he also suggests that Tripitaka carry his staff across his lap, while the rest of them carry their weapons on their shoulders. This way if they fall through the ice, their weapons will catch the sides of the ice and prevent them from falling all the way through.

So the pilgrim spends their day and night trekking across the frozen river without issue. However the next day they start to hear a rending sound from the ice, which greatly startles the horse. Tripitaka asks what that sound was, but Pigsy assures him it was probably just the ice grating the river bed and they continue on their way. Ignoring this sound however turns out to be a mistake since they don't get much further before the ice breaks apart- dumping Tripitaka, Sandy, Pigsy, and their horse into the freezing river. Monkey just sort of... flies to avoid it. With that the demon's successfully kidnap Tripitaka and brings him back to their base.

The Demon King is all jazzed to feast of Tripitaka with his new bond sister. Said sister however says they should probably hold off on the party until they are sure Tripitaka's disciples aren't going to break down their door and ruin their party. So for now Tripitaka is just shoved into a stone box to await his rescue.

Meanwhile Sandy and Pigsy have managed to get themselves as well as the horse and luggage out of the river, without a problem, after all Pigsy used to be a marshal stationed on a river, and Sandy is literally a river demon. Anyways when Monkey asks where Tripitaka is, Pigsy says that he's changed his family name to 'Sink' and his given name to 'To-the-Bottom'. Well that's one way to break the news. So the three of them decide to go back to the Chen's place for now in order to figure out a game plan.

The Chen's make sure to say 'I told you so' when they see the disciples back here dripping wet and missing their master. Monkey assures them that Tripitaka isn't dead yet, since when has any demon ever tried to eat him right away, and they even have a good idea on who took him this time. So the pilgrims have a quick meal with the Chen's before telling them to watch their horse while they rescue their master and deal with their local demon problem once and for all.

Current Sun Wukong Stats: Names/Titles: Monkey, The Stone Monkey, The Handsome Monkey King, Sun Wukong (Monkey awakened to the void), Bimawen (Banhorseplague), The Great Sage Equal To Heaven and Pilgrim Sun. Immortality: 5 + 94,000 years Weapon: The Compliant Golden Hooped Rod Abilities: 72 Transformations, Cloud-Somersault, Ability to transform his individual hairs, super strength, Ability to Summon Wind, Water restriction charm, and the ability to change into a huge war form, ability to duplicate his staff, ability to immobilize others, the ability to put others to sleep, and the Fiery eyes and Diamond Pupils, intimidating horses, churning large bodies of water, sleeplessness, seizing the wind, enhanced smell, discerning good and evil within a thousand miles, Spirit Summoning, lock picking, object transformation, distance reduction, vanishing in a flash of light, super healing and transforming others. Demon Kill Count: 9+ Unknown Number of Minions Human Kill Count: 1009 God's Defeated: 22 + Unknown number Defeats: 5 Crime List: Robbery, Murder, Mass Murder, Arson, Theft, Coercion, Threatening a Government Official, Resisting Arrest, Assault, Forgery, Employee Theft, False Imprisonment, Impersonating a Government Official, Treason, attempted murder, failure to control or report a dangerous fire, desecrating a corpse, breaking and entering, trespassing, violating Tree Law, looting corpses, trading counterfeit goods, criminal threat, animal abuse, Assisting or Instigating Escape, Damage to Religious Property, contaminating a substance for human consumption and Identity Fraud. Cry Count: 7 + 3 fake cries Mountains Trapped Under: 4

Current Tang Sanzang stats: Names/Titles: River Float, Xuanzang, Tang Sanzang, Tripitaka and the Tang Monk Abilities: Curing Blindness, making branches point a certain direction (allegedly), reciting sutras, pretty privilege, memorization, Heart Sutra and Meditation. Cry Count: 24 Tight Fillet Spell Uses: 31 Paralyzed by fear: 5 Bandit Problems: 2 Kidnapped by demons: 7 Falling Off Horses: 8

Current Bai Long Ma Stats: Names/Titles: Bai Long Ma (White Dragon Horse), Prince of the Western Ocean, and third prince jade dragon of the dragon king Aorun Abilities: Transforming into a human, a water snake, and a horse, eating a horse in one bite, flight, Magic of Water Restriction, Singing, and Sword Dancing. Cry Count: 1 Crime List: Arson, and Grave Disobedience. Contributions to the plot: 2

Current Zhu Wuneng Stats: Names/Titles: The Marshal of the Heavenly Reeds, Zhu Wuneng (Pig who is aware of ability), Zhu Ganglie, Pigsy, Idiot and Eight Rules. Weapon: Rake Abilities: 36 Transformations, parting water, fighting underwater, cloud soaring, size enhancement and CPR Demon Kill Count/Kill steals: 2 Kidnapped by Demons: 3 Human Kill Count: 1 Failed Flirtation/romances Attempts: 3 Cry Count: 1 Crime List: Sexual Harassment, Murder, Kidnapping, arson, defamation, Damage to Religious Property, contaminating a substance for human consumption and Identity Fraud

Current Sha Wujing Stats: Names/Titles: The Curtain-Raising General, Sha Wujing (Sand Aware of Purity), Sandy and Sha Monk Weapon: Monster Taming Staff Abilities: Fighting underwater and Cloud soaring. Demon Kill Count: Unknown number of minions. Kidnapped by Demons: 2 Human Kill Count: 1 Crime List: Breaking a Crystal Cup, murder, desecration of a human corpse, Damage to Religious Property and contaminating a substance for human consumption

Previous - Masterpost - Next

[chivalrychained]

You will be a king of snow and ice alone. The half-penny seer's words came back to the prince, as he lay staring up into the falling snowflakes.  They swirled as they fell, spinning and dipping in little eddies and whorls like leaves in a river, like dancers in a hall, before coming to rest in his hair.  With a crown of frost.

The only crown you will know, prince.

He stared up into the dizzying whirl of snow until he knew nothing but their dance, and smiled.  The cold crept in with each kiss of snow against his temple, cooling the bloodied ground, chasing away every memory of warmth.

He was still smiling when his knight found him, bloodied and crowned in winter.