#oc: laurence fairchild

[marrrow]

An incomplete selection of characters from my original writing project:

New York City, 1999 — On a hot July day in a bustling Manhattan café, journalist Van Daniels interviews Jonathan Hawkins—a dangerous mafia associate and a pop cultural icon called The Vampire. Despite Hawkins' taciturn nature, his face features regularly in tabloids and TV programs, and his deeds are mirrored in works of fiction. He does not speak to the press and has never volunteered any information about himself. All of it based on the rumors that follow him wherever he goes: whispers about the man who melts into shadows and rolls in with the fog—the man who cannot be killed and does not die. The rumors have followed him since he first came ashore in Long Beach, California, in 1919. He has not aged a day since then. The reason for Hawkins' unnatural longevity is unknown—equally so, his reasoning for agreeing to this interview at all. But before Hawkins can get up from their table and vanish back into shadow and fog, Daniels intends to get to the bottom of both mysteries.

You can read the preface here

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Sorting My OCs

Now that In Want of a Wife is finished, here is my official sortings of my ocs. For an explanation of the sorting system check out @wisteria-lodge

Cecily’s entire journey is about growing into her Lion Secondary. She lives in a society where women are expected to be demure and obedient, and has been taught by her mother (herself a burned Lion Secondary) that her secondary is something to be suppressed and that she should put on a Badger Secondary performance. Her character arc is centred on her growing more confident in her Lion Secondary, becoming more outspoken and bold, going after what she wants and standing up to her mother. I tossed up between Bird and Lion for her primary, and either could work, but as @missbrunettebarbie pointed out to me, Cecily has more in common with Bird/Lion heroines then Double Lion heroines. She lacks the certainty and gut instinct of a Lion Primary, and is more prone to self-doubt and questioning her beliefs.

The suave, charming Laurence looks like a Snake Secondary at first, and he certainly has a model, but at heart Laurence is a caretaker. He woos Cecily with thoughtful gifts that show how much attention he’s paid to her interests and wishes. He’s more of a Courtier Badger than a Bookkeeper, very skilled in social situations and putting others at ease, and his courtship of Cecily is very considerate and thought-out in a slow and steady wins the race kind of way. He’s committed to showing her he’s changed and does that with consistent big and small gestures. As for his primary, he’s definitely a Snake. He outright states that family legacy and tradition mean nothing to him, and that all he cares about is looking after his set of people and making them happy.

Cecily Montgomery: Bird/Lion, Badger Secondary performance

Laurence Fairchild: Snake/Badger, Snake Secondary model

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I have three wips at the moment: A Flame in the Forest, A Shadow on the Wall, and In Want of a Wife. The first two are fantasy and the last one is historical romance.

My main wip and the one I post the most about right now is A Flame in the Forest. It's set in a town in fantasy style Siberia that is suffering from a food shortage due to the war, and so my main character, Mariya, has to seek help from the Witch in the Woods. The Witch agrees to help but on the condition that Mariya complete three tasks for her.

Looking for writeblrs

My dash is incredibly dead so I’m looking for writers to follow and more mutuals to love!

If you:

-are a writer

-post mainly writing-related content

-are over 18

-are friendly :)

-write sci-fi, fantasy, horror, magical realism, anything weird - but honestly ANY kind of writing is fine

-bonus if you are also an artist

Please reblog and maybe tell me a little about your wips and I’ll come check out your blog!

Boosts appreciated

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Inspired by @aninkwellofnectar talking about Laila and Darius' love language, I decided to identify the love languages of my own ocs. For the ocs other than Cecily and Laurence it'll be more of an estimate since I haven't finished writing those wips.

Cecily: Physical touch. She’s usually the one who initiates physical intimacy with Laurence and she really just likes sitting and holding his hand. She's very casual in her affection towards him, too.

Laurence: Gift giving. The man loves giving Cecily gifts, the extravagant kind but also small thoughtful presents. He really does love showering her with things that make her happy (he did pretty much chose a house that had everything in it she could possibly want).

Nellie and Edward: Acts of service for both of them, which is part of their compatibility. They both like doing things for each other, and the way they show their affection is a on the quiet side, nothing extravagant, more like helping the other out. Of course, it backfires a bit when they both do something they think is helping the other, but it isn't.

Isobel: Quality time. She really appreciates being the sole focus of Dominic's attention and just spending time with him. She lived a rather lonely life before, and she's rather suprised by just how much she likes his company. Also with a side of words of affirmation, she likes being praised.

Dominic: Physical affection. He's constantly touching Isobel, even just in casual ways like holding her hand, he just always wants to be in physical contact with her.

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WIP Introduction: In Want of a Wife

Plot Summary:

Impulsive, impetuous, unthinking. Cecily Montgomery has hated Laurence Fairchild ever since the summers they spent together as children at their godmother’s estate. Even as adults, her distaste for him has not abated. Now the London Season is upon them, and Cecily’s mother is intent on her marrying the Duke of Ashfield. If only Laurence wasn’t so intent on distracting her with his antics and ruining all their carefully laid plans.

Genre: historical romance

Setting: London, 1893

Status: currently writing first draft

Tag: my wips: in want of a wife

Themes: love, family, friendship, duty, gender roles, marriage

Main characters:

Cecily Montgomery:

For her whole life Cecily has been taught how to be the perfect bride to find the perfect husband. After a disappointing first season, Cecily and her mother have spent years perfecting her skills and polishing up her manners. This season, Lady Mary is determined to snag the greatest prize for her daughter — the Duke of Ashfield. And Cecily is determined to make her mother proud.

Laurence Fairchild:

With the family’s estates failing, the Earl of Scarborough expects his son to find a wealthy bride. But Laurence has no interest in marriage. Indeed, Laurence isn’t sure what he is interested in, except for his intriguing childhood friend. This new Cecily is almost a stranger, but Laurence is determined to prove the spirited girl of their shared childhood summers remains underneath her new, cool reserve.

Supporting characters:

The Duke of Ashfield:

As a handsome Duke in need of a wealthy bride, Lord Pemberton is truly the catch of the season and Lady Mary’s pick for Cecily’s future husband.

Nellie Stalworth:

As an American heiress, Nellie has come to London for her parents to find a titled husband for their only daughter.

Lady Mary Montgomery:

As the mother of an unmarried young woman, Lady Mary has nothing but marriage on her mind and is determined to ensure her daughter does not repeat her own mistakes.

Taglist (ask to be added/removed):

@thelaughingstag, @writing-with-l, @kishons, @depressedpoetess, @aphaimaniis, @macabretypewriter, @inkovert, @cheerfulmelancholies, @zmlorenz , @ink-fireplace-coffee​, @josephinegerardywriter, @halleiswriting, @tiredlittleoldme, @kg-willie

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Character Intro

Laurence Fairchild

"I read somewhere that love was about this, the nuggets of knowledge about our beloved that we so fluently hold" - Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

Age: 27

Tropes:

The Charmer

Gentleman Snarker

Hidden Depths

Taglist: @thelaughingstag, @writing-with-l, @kishons, @depressedpoetess, @aphaimaniis, @macabretypewriter, @inkovert, @cheerfulmelancholies

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WIP Update

I have officially reached 30,000 words for my wip In Want of a Wife. Yay!!! I’m so proud to have gotten this far. I now have three fully complete chapters (and many incomplete chapters). 

In celebration I am posting a snippet from chapter 3. Enjoy. 

717 words

Taglist:

@thelaughingstag, @writing-with-l

Cut for length

“Even if that may be so, a woman must have regard for the husband they choose,” Cecily said. “A husband is a women’s gateway to society. Her pathway to status, to financial security, to children and a family. Choose poorly, and she could find the doors of society closed to her, her finances drained, her children taken from her.”

“A married woman’s property remains her own nowadays,” Laurence pointed out.

“Yes, but you will find very few women with enough property to live comfortably off. Most women are still reliant on the income their husband’s are willing to give them.”

The others were all looking at her now. Her cheeks were burning and it was all she could do to stop herself from shrinking away. 

“Well said, Cecily,” Rupert commended. 

“Maybe you should send her to speak to parliament on your behalf, Pemberton,” Matthew suggested. 

Cecily eyed the Duke. Her mother would not be impressed if she scared him away with radical politics. Although, Cecily found nothing she’d said to be particularly controversial. It was all the truth, after all, but many did not wish to hear the truth. 

“I have no doubt that Miss Montgomery would be very persuasive,” he commented. “It is unlikely they would listen to her, on account of her gender, but that would not make her points any less well-argued.”

It was the first compliment she had received that night that was actually flattering and not just hollow praise. 

The conversation moved on, this time with more input from the Duke. He was a rather quiet man but his comments were always measured and intelligent. He appeared at least to regard her own intelligence highly and had not cut her down in public. Respectful, reasonable, responsible. She could certainly do worse in a husband. 

Cecily’s gaze flickered sideways to find Laurence watching her with a strange intensity. 

“Yes?” she asked.

Laurence shook his head slightly. “What?” 

“You were staring.”

“Was I? Forgive me, my mind was elsewhere.”

“Where?’ 

“Huh?”

Cecily rolled her eyes impatiently. “If your mind was elsewhere, where was it?” 

“Gloucestershire,” he admitted. “I was thinking about our dancing lessons. And of my poor bruised toes.”

“You deserved it every time I stepped on your feet.”

“And yet you were perfectly adept tonight,” he pointed out. “Have you improved greatly?”

“I’ve improved in many ways but not dancing. I was always well-versed in the steps.”

“Ah, so it was payback then?”

“You must admit, it was not unprovoked.”

“Provoked?” he asked aghast. “When have I ever been provoking?”

“You are a walking, talking provocation.”

Laurence dramatically raised a hand to his chest, his mouth hanging open in mock horror. “My lady, you wound me. I am as pacifying as a monk.”

A laugh escaped from her lips. Not the polite laugh of the drawing room but a full-bodied laugh. Her laugh had always been too loud for her liking, but it had never ceased to amuse Laurence. Cecily raised her hand to her mouth almost as if to trap the laugh. 

Laurence frowned. “Why do you do that?” 

“I have a terrible laugh.”

“You have a wonderful laugh,” he protested. “If I was courting you, I would profess that your laugh is my favourite sound in the world.”

Cecily raised an eyebrow. “Then aren’t we glad there’s no need for such falsities.” 

For a second, Laurence’s expression faltered before it was quickly replaced with his usual jovial grin. 

“You do look very beautiful tonight.”

“Thank you.” Cecily nodded her head slightly. 

Laurence’s eyebrows pinched together. “And that was a good argument,” he quickly added. “But you’ve always been good at arguing.”

“Much to my mother’s disappointment.” Cecily picked up her glass and sipped at it.

Laurence shrugged. “Your mother’s not always right.” 

Then, he turned to his other side to draw Matthew into conversation, leaving Cecily to ponder on the peculiarity of his behaviour. He had always teased her but his seemingly genuine attempts to compliment her were as baffling as they were inept. Ordinarily, he was suave and charming, always knowing exactly what to say. It had aggravated Cecily to no end how easily he put others at ease, a talent she had never managed to acquire. She didn’t put people at ease, she put them on edge. 

[starry-sky-stuff]

General 5, 8. Domestic 3

5. What’s their height difference? Age difference?

They’re quite similar in height, only a few inches in difference. I envision Cecily to be about 5’8 and Laurence about 5’11 roughly. So fairly close in height. Honestly I did this because it annoyed how male love interests in historical romance novels always seem to be a foot taller than the woman and like 6’3.

Age-wise there’s a two year age gap, so again, fairly close. Cecily’s 24 (turning 25) and Laurence is 27.

8. Who gets jealous easier?

It would have to be Cecily considering there’s an argument that arises partially because of her jealousy (there are other reasons). Laurence is not really jealous since I hate the prominence of jealous, possessive men in romance and how it’s sold as romantic. Laurence first and foremost wants Cecily to be happy even if that means she chooses not to be with him so long as it’s her choice and not her mother’s. Although, his own insecurities do contribute a little here.

3. How many kids do they have, if any? What are they like?

I haven’t really thought too much about this. They definitely have kids and they give their kids a much freer, happier and more loving home than what they had. I’m open to any headcanons about what you think their kids would be like.

[starry-sky-stuff]

Going through my tag game post from yesterday and I realised that this line perfectly encapsulates Cecily and Laurence's characters.

“Laurence does not have a serious bone in his body,” Cecily remarked. A reproach, no doubt. She had never approved of his irreverence.

“And you have far too many.”

Laurence is the youngest child and only son, indulged by his mother and criticised by his father, who took on the mantle of the class clown of sorts. He had to be happy all the time to cheer up the members of his unhappy family.

And then there's Cecily, the eldest daughter and bearer of all her mother's expectations. In turn, she became serious and preoccupied with doing her duty to her family to gain her mother’s approval and her father’s attention.

The roles they adopted were both to please their parents, and they’re straining under these roles, growing increasingly resentful of having to live your life to please others.

[starry-sky-stuff]

3, 9 and 12 for Laurence

3. What does their voice sound like, in a couple of words? (ie soft, scratchy, seductive, high-pitched, etc)

I haven't thought too much about what his voice sounds like, but I think it leans more towards sounding soft and seductive.

9. What is their main love language? (gifts, quality time, acts of service, physical touch, words of affirmation)

Definitely gift giving, he gives Cecily multiple gifts, and probably words of affirmation. He's very effusive in his love, which Cecily greatly appreciates. Laurence is great with giving thoughtful gifts.

12. How do they feel about romantic relationships? Are they into casual flings or more serious, long-term romances? Or are they uninterested?

In the past he's only ever had casual relationships, nothing particularly serious. Even his past romance with Cecily never progressed to anything serious.

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❌📙💛🌳💙🍆🌷

For any heroine you want

❌ What kind of things would end any relationship for them? Is there a history behind why these things bother them? Could they ever take someone back despite this? If so or if not, why? - Nellie

Unreliability. The main cause of the end of her relationship with her child's father was his inconsistency. Ironically, his romantic and dreamy nature was what initially attracted her to him, but when she grew up, he didn't.

📙 What kind of subjects (of conversation, of discussion, in school or whatever) does your OC find interesting or engaging or that they can talk for hours about? What kind of stuff do they just find fun? - Laurence

Laurence is interested in Shakespeare, particularly his tragedies.

💛 In general, how in control of their emotions is your OC? Do they have a good hold on them or do their emotions control them, not the other way around? What do you think is the reason behind this and is your OC ever concerned about their lack of or good control? - Mariya

Mariya is pretty much in complete control of her emotions at all time. The reason is basically the emotional abuse she suffered from her husband, as she responded by essentially stonewalling him when he tried to get a response.

🌳 Compare your OC to themself from 10 years ago. How has their mental state changed since then, how have they aged and grown up? Would they say they’re in a better place than they were back then or do they need help? What advice would they give their younger self? What advice would their younger self give to them now? - Mariya

Mariya has changed a lot in 10 years. She's a lot more cynical and distrustful now than when she was a teenager. But she'd probably say she's in a better position now since she's fully independent. The main advice she'd give her younger self would be to not get married.

💙 What did your OC want to be when they grew up and why? Did they have any lifelong dreams or ambitions they never got to work on or are they currently working to achieve this dream? Has their life taken a very unexpected turn and put all these plans on hold for a while or have they given up on any dreams? - Cecily

Cecily wanted to be a botanist and to travel the work documenting flora. She never got to contemplate this seriously because of her mother's expectations of her, but she's starting to reconsider it.

🍆 Tea or Coffee or Hot Chocolate? Sweet or Spicy? Fruits or Vegetables? - Vladimir

Hot Chocolate, Sweet, Fruits

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💖💗💋🍒 for Lawrence

💖 Has your OC ever been in love, be it romantic or platonic or otherwise? Who with and did they ever express their feelings or keep it private? How long did these feelings persist / do they still feel this way?

Well he's been in love with Cecily for years. After he realised it he showed his feelings, but in a subtle way since he was scared of rejection. But now he knows she reciprocates his feelings he's very open about showing his love.

💗 What would your OC say is their best feature? Why? What do their friends / family / lover(s) / people they know think is their best feature and why?

Probably his smile, he has a very warm and friendly smile. Most people would probably agree, although Cecily thinks his best feature is his eyes.

💋 How affectionate are they with their friends? Their family? Their romantic partner(s) (if they have any)? Are they more physical or emotional when it comes to displaying their affection? Why?

Laurence is quite affectionate but probably more on the emotional side, since his father discouraged physical affection. Cecily is definitely the more physical affectionate of the two and is generally the initiator.

🍒 What kind of things do they expect from their relationships? Does this differ between platonic relationships and romantic ones? Is your OC “demanding” or a door mat? What kinds of things do people expect from them in a relationship?

Laurence definitely errs on the side of being a giver not a taker in relationships. However, most people having expected too much from him in relationships, usually just to be happy-go-lucky and lighten the mood, which didn't really help his low self-esteem.

[starry-sky-stuff]

Name Meanings

Jumping on @zmwrites tag

Rules: Search and post the meaning of your OCs’ names (if you made their name up or they go by a nickname, post an explanation of how it came to you)! Bonus if you can find something for their last name too.

Cecily Montgomery:

Cecily: blind

Montgomery: mountain

Laurence Fairchild:

Laurence: laurel

Fairchild: beautiful child

Nellie Stalworth:

Eleanor: ancient north

Edward Pemberton:

Edward: rich guard

Pemberton: barley hill

Isobel Steele:

Isobel: pledged to God

Steele: steelworker

Dominic Beresford:

Dominic: belonging to the Lord

Beresford: beaver ford

Tagging: @aninkwellofnectar, @laufire-writes, @missbrunettebarbie-writer

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Hierarchy of needs: OC edition

Thanks for the tag @sleepy-night-child, this was really fun!

Tagging: @drippingmoon, @nectargrapes, @missbrunettebarbie-writer, @laufire-writes, @glitterandstarshine

Blank template below the cut

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Atm it's Cecily but it could become Aruzhan depending on how much more content we see of her

@missbrunettebarbie's favourite is also Cecily. It's the Lion solidarity (ironically my fav's not a Bird but the Snake/Badger Laurence). I haven't written too much of Aruzhan, and most of it's been focused on Mariya, but already she has so much charisma