#crown Royal golden apple

[luckydiorxoxo]

Crown Royal Golden Apple celebrates partnership with Solange Knowles for Saint Heron

#saint heron #solange knowles #crown Royal golden apple #crown Royal

[lqveharrington]

Lucky King? | L.M.

summary: Lucifer takes pride in everything he has, especially his wife.

pairing: Lucifer Morningstar x wife!reader

includes: fluff, lucifer being a sweet and attentive husband and father, suggestiveness, possessiveness, that’s pretty much it (let me know if i missed any!)

a/n: okay but like, i am on serious hazbin brain rot, i have written more for HH than any other fandom so far.

Being the embodiment of pride meant that Lucifer constantly flaunted everything to his fellow sins and his people. And being the King of Hell meant he had a lot to brag about. Especially his family. God, Lucifer loved his family and would do anything to talk about them in every conversation.

An overlord meeting about movie productions on VoxFlix? Add romantic comedies, they’re his wife and daughter’s favorite. Speaking with Beelzebub about her different alcoholic beverages? Make sure to make mojitos, they’re his wife and daughter’s favorite.

He took pride in who he married and who his daughter was. After all, they were the royal family of Hell.

“Mom, I think it’s as tight as it can go— MOM!” Charlie’s eyes flashed red as she squealed, grabbing your arm.

“Sorry!” You tilt your head back as you let a laugh fall from your lips. “I thought you said—“

“No no no no noooo!” She turned around, eyes wide. “I think I’m good.”

“I’m sorry, baby.” You kiss her cheek and adjust her crown.

Charlie beamed at you and traded places with you. “My turn!”

You hum as she tightens the corset around you, eyes flickering up toward the mirror when you hear the door creak open. “Hey, handsome.”

“Hi, my love.” He pressed a kiss to your hand and then one to Charlie’s forehead. “Hi, apple pie.” He watched his daughter tug on the strings attached to the corset, moving forward when it seemed like you were going to fall from the platform. “Charlie, what are you doing to your mother?”

“Pulling her corset tight—“ She grunted as she held the string in place, tying the back. “There.” You gave her a thumbs up as she finished, watching her glow at your silent praise.

“Gorgeous as always.” Lucifer stole you from your platform, the devil’s tail wrapping around your waist.

“You know? Vaggie is probably looking for me! I should leave…” Charlie let out an awkward laugh and fled for the door. “Text me when you need me for the entrance!”

Lucifer dipped you down, chuckling when you let out a noise of surprise. “You look breathtaking, my love. Maybe we should just skip the gala and do better activities right here—“

“Lucifer!” You lightly smack his chest, face flushed from his words. “You horny devil!”

“Says the queen of Hell.” He captured you in a quick kiss, red lipstick staining his lips. “Come on, Charlie can handle it on her own.” He squeezed your hips as you walked over to the vanity with his head resting on your bare shoulder.

You glance at your beloved with a soft look, “Luce, we didn’t coordinate a whole gala just to have our daughter host it herself.” You clip on a pair of earrings, the golden snake and apple shining through the light. “We also didn’t have these outfits made for us just for them to be wasted away on our bedroom floor.”

“I mean…” He nipped on your exposed shoulder, earning a gasp and glare. “They made you a maroon dress with a slit exposing your legs, my love.”

“Because it matches your maroon and black suit.” You turn in his arms and tug at his lapels. “Which I have to admit, kinda does it for me.”

He smirked as he slowly pushed you up against the vanity, “Yeah? Maybe we should ditch.”

“Nope.” Your hands clasped behind his neck, eyes widening when you feel one of his hands trail down to your exposed leg. “Luce…”

“You started this.” He slotted himself between your legs and continuously peppered kisses to your collarbone and neck, softly sucking. “You’re a tease.”

“Lucifer—“ Your protests were cut off with a quiet moan, but you quickly covered your mouth when hearing him chuckle. “Nope, we’re leaving now.”

Lucifer separated from you, a wide grin adorning his face as he scanned you. He pressed a soft kiss to your lips, “Let’s go then, my love.”

You raised a brow but didn’t protest, letting him wrap his arm around your waist to guide you toward the ballroom. You both were quickly accompanied by your daughter as you made your way to the landing of the grand stairway.

The lights flashed off and the spotlight projected on the Morningstar family, the crowd’s voice hushed when spotting the monarchy. Lucifer gave a welcoming speech to the sinners, overlords, and sins who attended, making sure to mention his family and how they helped make the gala entirely possible. Final rounds of applause echoed through the ballroom as Lucifer finished off, letting everyone go back to their socialization and dancing.

“Mom,” Charlie caught you before you could follow Lucifer to greet his fellow sins. “Did you… Do you know why… You have bruises on your neck.” She finally mumbled out, eyes not meeting yours.

You felt yourself warm from embarrassment. Not only did your daughter tell you that you have hickeys on your neck, but you stood in the blinding lights with an audience staring at the three of you. No doubt photographers caught this and snapped photos for the internet. “Thank you for telling me, baby. Now if you’ll excuse me, I’m going to murder your father.”

“Mom—“

You scanned the room before your gaze zeroed on Lucifer. He was laughing with Asmodeus before meeting your gaze and gave you a wink. Oh, he was going to pay.

“Lucifer.” You appear by his side. You give his fellow sin a quick smile but turn back to the little devil with a scowl. “Can I talk to you?”

“Of course.” He wrapped an arm around your waist. “It was nice catching up with you, Oz.”

You guided Lucifer back to a secluded hallway, eyes flashing bright red when you were alone. Within a blink of an eye, you had Lucifer pinned against the wall with your forearm.

“Do you know how embarrassing it is to know that I went out there with bruises all over my neck? Or, better yet, that our daughter was the one who told me what was on my neck?” You seethed. You were beyond embarrassed and pissed, you’re surprised you haven’t become a full demon yet.

“To be fair, it was more than just your neck—“

“LUCIFER!” You use your free hand to reach up your collarbone. The room felt ten times warmer, and it didn’t help that you felt Lucifer’s devil tail decided to wrap around your calf.

He remained pinned on the wall, giving you a cheeky grin. “This is really hot.”

“Oh, my god!” You release him with a glare. “There’s going to be photos everywhere! What will the public think about—“

“Lucky king?” He shrugged as he let his fingers trail up your waist, pulling you flush against him. “Listen, we’ll get rid of the photos. But is it really a crime to show off what’s mine?”

You grumble a small response, propping your head on his shoulder. “You’re crazy, Luce.”

“I love you too, beautiful.” He chuckled.

The photos never made it outside of Pride Manor, but the teasing you received from the other sins made you flush every time. Lucifer listened to each jeer, a smirk present on his face from the constant reminder that you were in fact his.

Especially when the bruises scattered around you spelled out his initials.

©lqveharrington - all rights reserved. do not copy, translate or share my work on other media platforms

#august’s works 🫧 #lucifer morningstar #lucifer morningstar smut #hazbin lucifer #lucifer magne #hazbin hotel lucifer #lucifer morningstar x reader #lucifer x reader #hazbin hotel self insert #hazbin hotel angst #habzin hotel #hazbin hotel fandom #hazbin hotel imagine #hazbin hotel fanfiction #hazbin hotel x reader #hazbin charlie #hazbin hotel #hazbin hotel writing #hazbin hotel x y/n #hazbin hotel x you #hazbin hotel x helluva boss #hazbin hotel reader insert #hazbin hotel oneshots #hazbin hotel drabble #jeremy jordan #hazbin hotel fluff #hazbin hotel fic #hazbin hotel headcanon #hazbin hotel charlie #hazbin hotel blurb

[llamagirl28]

let me just start by appreciating the hard work you do for this IF. this is genuinely one of the few IFs that have given me brainrot (/pos), and im so excited to see how it goes! your writing is amazing and the characters are so entertaining! im not very good with compliments, but i just wanted to give some appreciation with your work <3

anyway, what are the family symbols/crests of the ROs (or anyone)? we know that the Pendragon's is dragons and red, Le Fay's is serpents and green, and Leudonus's is bears and moss green. and follow-up question, are there any symbolism to why you chose that particular symbol, or was it already predetermined in Arthurian legend?

Thank you so much! 💕

No, it's not predetermined from Arthurian legends, I honestly took a lot of liberty with the myths in general - Boc is inspired by them but very much its own thing haha.

Alright, so the crests!

Pendragon - gold dragon, red background. All the dragon bloods chose their crests based upon the dragons that gave them their powers. They all went with a gilded dragon in various poses, and the background came from the color of the scales. Fun fact, the posture of the dragon on the Pendragon crest was changed when they first came to sit on the throne - it was less threatening as it is now, rearing, claws ready to strike, maw open.

Le Fay is not actually green! It's serpent and azure blue, the color being reminiscent of the sea. In-story explanation: their fae ancestor first showed themselves to their human ancestor in the shape of a snake. As to why I chose it, I really like serpent imagery and symbolism and how it can be use in the game.

Leudonus have the moss green and bear because I wanted something you'd think of as big and strong and fearsome. The origin of it in game is not set yet.

Beauregard - swan and blue. Swan because the first of their family to sit on the throne is said to have arrived at the castle in a swan-drawn boat to dethrone the one who wanted the crown, seeing them as unfit to rule. This is loosely based on the tale of the Swan Knight/Knight of the Swan. Also swans because they're beautiful birds and they have plenty in Astolat.

Meier (Isac's family) have a stag and dark green as their symbol. They are descendants of the fae known as the Deer King, hence the stag, and their magic affinity is plant-based, hence green.

Hendrik (Guinevere's family) - Red tulip and black. Tulip because of the family business, back before they even got on the throne.

Allard family, after they stopped using the Le Fay serpent - the Royal Eagle, (what we know as golden eagle). It's supposed to be a symbol to evoke power, strength and determination.

Laurent family (the family of Elena aka Galahad's mother) - a bundle of lavender against bronze background.

Du Lac - apple tree with red fruit, light green background. Inspired by the association of Avalon with appletrees within Arthurian legends. Initially it was mentioned as a symbol of Avalon in the game but I later changed it. In my story, Avalon is based on Mediterranean islands so if there's any fruit emblematic to it, it should be something more citrusy.

These are the most defined at the moment.

#the bastard of camelot #boc lore

[misguidedasgardian]

The White Dragon (9)

9. While you were gone

MASTERLIST

Summary: You’d been living in a dream, and now you had to wake up

Pairings: main Harwin Strong x Fem!Targaryen reader

Warnings: cursing, medieval and A song of ice and Fire AU customs, talks about “bastards”, name calling, mentions of smut, and more, a tamed chapter 

+18, MINORS DNI

Wordcount: 3.7 k

Notes: One thing I changed from ASOIAF… since the conquest, the Tully’s were the lords of the Riverlands… well, now the Strongs are 😂 Short chapter I think, but a transitional one, we will see what they'd been up to for the last 10 years

Year 128 AC, 10 years after the departure from King’s Landing 

The thing is… that when you are the highest ranking person in a holdfast, you can practically live however you want. And away from court, and royal protocol and responsibilities, you learned, fairly quickly, that you were free

And that’s how you lived with your small family. 

You shared your bed with your husband, and sometimes your children, when they crawled in your bed in the midst of the night claiming about having nightmares. Harwin’s desire to extend your family never dwindled, and you tried, everynight to do so… now for pleasure more than need.

In your fourth year away from court a third babe was born to you, a little girl, with silver hair and kind eyes just like your sweet mother and with the coloring of your husband. She was the apple of his eye, and yours, and you named her Aemma, with your father’s blessing, he even made the trip to bring you a dragon egg. That never hatched 

Your children grew as summer grass, free from the schemes and darkness of the court. Running over open fields, green woods and jumping over streams. And their dragons grew alongside them. Maekar and Rhaegar turn into young dragonriders at age 7, and your daughter was content with riding with you, in Vhaelar’s back 

Harwin dealt with matters of the Strong lands and you managed to finish the construction of your new home. A castle. It was over the hill overlooking Harrenhal, and it was beautiful, with big windows with painted glass and a big patio where your children grew, played, and learned under the shadow of a beautiful tree that you built your home around. towers in which you and your children had your quarters, and a tower named the tower of the princess, that serves as a watch tower with a dome, a favorite spot for you, Rhaegar and Aemma. In the castle you had headquarters for your servants as well, and you all lived together. Still keeping the old Harrenhall, since it was an important seat of great size, closest to King Landing, it was an important military outpost for armies of the crown that could not be forsaken. 

Your children were instructed in philosophy, history, even some arts, and they spoke Valyrian fluently, thanks to your own teachings. Maekar, ever the scholar, would pay close attention to his teachers and septas, but Rhaegar, on the other hand, the boy’s mind seemed to be everywhere but on the patio. And sweet, Aemma, of 6 name days, would listen to her brothers, and learned to read and write only at 4 years old, and the first thing she wanted to do was to write to her dear grandsire, who sat in a big chair and wore a golden ring in his head. 

Ser Steffon at the beginning traveled with you, even if as Rhaenyra had two more sons, and that drove you away from the line of succession, you still were a princess of royal blood, so, your own Kingsguard was appointed to you, alongside a bunch of city watch former soldiers that became soldiers of the House Strong. But your personal guard traveled back and forth, and now with a bigger royal family and descendants to the throne, he was more needed in the Red Keep, than by your side. He was very close to renouncing but you insisted otherwise, you needed him by your father’s side, even if his only wish was to stay with you and train the boys, something you had been postponing as much as you could but they were ten now and Harwin was dying to start their training. 

Under yours, and Steffon’s eyes, you guarded Joanna’s safety, as many suitors came to her seeing that she was now a widow, and a young Lannister woman, and you gave her the liberty to be courted in your home, and to chose her own spouse, after many suitors, she fell for the heir to house Tully and Riverrun, a handsome and good man, with auburn hair and freckles and a kind smile. Of course his Lannister brothers refused him, but with you, a princess, behind her, there was nothing they could do, and with angry looks, they let her wed him. You had constant contact with the Tullys, since the Strongs were the lords of the Riverlands, and House Tully was loyal to you. Now Joanna was happier than you had ever seen her, with two beautiful sons with auburn hair and green eyes just like hers 

But the shadow of the crown was always over you, constant news reached your ears, and a worry was eating you. According to some reports… Rhaenyra’s offspring did not resemble Ser Laenor, and that was becoming a problem for her, the whispers reached you in Harrenhal. The line of succession, her line of succession, was trembling, and in a corner of your mind you wondered if after her, came you as heir, or Aegon, Alicent Hightower’s son. Maybe that was a question you didn’t need answering. Your father was right, the Iron throne was the most dangerous seat in the realm, and looking at your children, you decided you will turn a blind eye and deaf ears to those nasty rumors, which weren’t really rumors, but your allegiance lies with Rhaenyra’s claim and line. 

Your children deserved to be as free as their dragons, and the crown and court was like the Dragonpit for them, a beautiful cage, but a cage nonetheless. You managed to create a perfect life, and escape it, or so you thought.

Aemma rested her head in her chubby little arms, looking at the horizon from the Princess Tower, the sound of horses neighing, and hooves and carriages reached her before a caravan appeared through the King’s road, and she recognized the banner immediately, the banner of her house, flying high alongside the three headed dragon

“Grandpa is here!” she screeched, jumping on her feet and running down the spiral stairs. “Grandpa is coming!” she repeated, as her small feet led her to where you probably were, in the gardens with a book. “mommy!”, she threw herself and you catched her in your arms

“What is it, sweet girl?”, you asked as you kissed the top of her head

“Grandpa is coming”, she beamed with a big smile, missing some teeth, “I saw him”, since you weren’t celebrating any name days, or festivities, the fact that your father by law was visiting did concern you. 

“Is he now? then we should greet him”, you muttered, “Where are your brothers?” her little face 

“I don’t know”, she muttered, looking at the ground in front of her, revealing her little lie.

“Oh you don’t know?” you giggled 

. . .

“Arghugon, Karnax!” demanded Rhaegar, and the dragon fell from the skies and with her powerful claws and clinged into the poor stag that screamed in agony, as the dragon lifted its prey, threw it in the air, “Dracarys!” and finally burned it to the crisp so he could eat it. The cream colored beast with golden marking devoured it whole in long bites. Rhaegar knew better than come close to him when he was feeding, so he was content in watching from the tree line 

Maekar joined him, hoping that his own dragon won’t come near him now. The blue and silver dragons as flying over the God’s eye

“Aerion is bigger”, whined Rhaegar

“They are the same size”, Maekar answered, “they were born at the same time, and they grow all the same, eating the same, sleeping the same. He only looks bigger because it’s mine”, he joked. Rhaegar rolled his eyes, as his dragon finished his feasting

“You heard that?” Maekar asked, walking away from the trees and looked towards the road, where he saw the caravan approaching, “it’s probably Grandpa Lyonel”

Many couldn’t tell them apart, but one look from you was enough to do so, Maekar had broader shoulders than Rhaegar, and he wore his hair short, strong dark curls over his head, while Rhaegar screeched and screamed when the maids tried to cut his main, so you let him wear it longer, often he had to tie it to keep it from obscuring his gaze. 

“Mom will want us there to receive him”, told Maekar, and without thinking it anymore, he ran towards Aerion, who had landed close to him. Rhaegar did the same with Karnax. And they both flew the few miles that separated them from the Castle. 

“Where were you?” you asked as they ran to your side fixing their clothes and hair

“Sorry mom, I was teaching Karmax to hunt”, muttered Rhaegar, “Maekar was helping me” 

“Good lad” you looked at Harwin with a side smile as he ruffled the boy’s hair, as you stood with the members of your household outside the castle to wait for your father

The carriage stopped right in front of you all, a soldier jumped from it and opened the door, and Lyonel showed up, he had lost part of his hair, as ten years took its toll, but he was still a tall, proud and Strong man. 

“Grandpa!” Aemma jumped into Lyonel’s awaiting arms, and the man giggled having his granddaughter hugging him tightly

“Hello sweet girl!” he greeted

“I missed you grandpa”

“I missed you too, and your hugs”, you knew Lyonel wasn’t a man you could just easily hug or anything, but he only had one weak spot in his strong walls, and that was their grandchildren. 

“Lord Lyonel” you greeted

“Father”, greeted Harwin by your side 

“My Lady”, he muttered looking at you, “Son”

“Grandpa” mocked Rhaegar, because of all the title-calling. You looked at him with warning in your eyes but Lyonel only smiled and he hugged his grandsons 

“What have you two been up to? uh?”

“Making the teachers a little mad, that’s all”, muttered Maekar

“just a little?” Chuckled Lyonel.

After the warm welcome you of course invited Lyonel in, the day was turning into darkness, and it was time to serve supper.

Lyonel had much to say about the capital, contrary to the both of you who lived lives more sunk into a routine. The boys and Aemma of course had much to say to their Grandsire, tales about their dragon’s growth and their personal achievements, like they could hold conversation in High Valyrian, and Harwin laughing about it because he felt left out about you chiding them in your mother tongue so it will have more impact. 

With long pouts on their account and they had to be sent to bed, they wanted to share the after-dinner with their parents and grandfather, but you insisted that they will have a long day tomorrow showing Lyonel all the things they talked about. 

After dinner, Harwin, Lyonel and you, gathered in the library, with a cup of wine in hand and the hearth lit up, it was a beautiful night, you could heard crickets in the distance 

“It is not that we don’t enjoy your visits, dear father, but I must ask, what brings you here?” asked Harwin

“I cannot visit my son, his beautiful wife and my sweet grandchildren?”, he tried to sound funny, and you did smile, but his face was tainted with concern, “being here is like a breath of fresh air, so relieving from all my duties… and the heaviness of the court”

“Lyonel, is there something wrong?”, you asked, placing your hand on his arm, encouraging him

“I’m afraid there is something”, he admitted, “it’s about the princess”

“What is it?” you asked. And one of the things you liked most about Lyonel is that he always went straight to the point, he was frank 

“Rhaenyra is alone, without allies, she is sinking, so is her claim”. Even that didn’t surprise you, the ghost of your sister and her hostility towards you ever over you. You had contented with the fact of being the second daughter, and you were happy because of it, but the thing is, she was the first, the heir, and that will have a toll on you someday, and perhaps that day had arrived

“Do you come on your own accord?” asked Harwin

“She sits at the small council”, you interrupted, “she lives in the Keep, she is an active member of court, what was she doing all this time but make allies and show herself as a ruler?”, you muttered, in disbelief, “what has she been doing?”, you asked again. Lyonel looked down

“Did she send you, father?” he asked

“No, well, she may have hinted at it”

“What do you mean?” you muttered

“She needs you, a senior member of the Royal Family, to back up her claim, to support her”, he said, “she has said, outloud, and on many occasions that if you were there at court, you would support her ideas and contributions”. You had never hold grudges against your sister, despite everything, but now… your name being spoken like that, her using you, despite being miles away… really, you now cursed her, for putting your own comfort, word and life in the line 

“I don’t know what I could do for her”, you whispered, “I don’t understand, she had ten years at my father’s side, she should have strengthened her claim by now…”

“The Queen also sits at the small council, they both have their claws on the King”, this was all said in the privacy of the library, in complete secrecy, “and I fear that they are going to… tear him apart”

“Father…”

“It is not with nothing but care that I say these words… only to you both, and in the safety of your home” he said, “I fear for the future of the realm”

“So bad?” you asked then, seeing your own future being sealed right in front of you

“Having you, his darling daughter, will remind his grace of his true family, of why he chose your line as the one to succeed him, I believe you will bring the court comfort, and strength, to your sister’s line.”, you shared concerned looks with Harwin, “A seat in the small council is yours, Princess, and for Harwin, there is the post as commander of the city watch”

“Those are generous seats”, your husband muttered

“Indeed”

“Lyonel…”, you called, “I don’t know what you are asking”, you needed him to say it

“I am asking for your return to court”, he said firmly

“You want us to take the boys, and Aemma?”, you asked then

“I wouldn’t ask if I didn't believe this is the best course of action, you are the lords of the Riverlands… You have Dorne and the North as allies, you built those bridges, now you need to cross them”, the princess and now Prince of Dorne had send many letters to you over the years, never forgetting the visit they paid when you were alone in the castle, and for the North, Cregan Stark always send you gifts, and letters, which you answered and in turned send more gifts.

“You are talking like a war is going to break out”, you whispered

“Princess, your father is sick”, he told you, “his mind is drifting, he might change his mind, or else, the Hightowers might take that chance to do something…”, Lord Lyonel was one of the smartest and joust men you had ever encountered, and he sat at the side of the King, if he was exposing this to you, is because it had merit. 

“Dear father by law”, you muttered, “we will talk about this, you must understand my trepidations since… I’ve made Harrenhal my home and, it’s so sad for me to leave it”

“Of course, my sweet daughter by law” 

After that, you and Harwin walked together towards your shared chambers, ready to take to bed, you were suddenly so tired 

“We need to start making preparations” he said as he started taking off his clothes

“Harwin…” you called with concern, “Are you truly entertaining this?” you asked, “put ourselves and our children at risk?”

“The Red keep is the safest place”, he muttered

“For now” you said, “you heard your father, The King is sick, how long until he expires, and a war breaks out for his succession?” you asked, “To Rhaenyra to fight young Aegon, and the Hightowers…” 

“That might not happen if we are there”, he said firmly

“You had visited the capital more than me”, you muttered, you were only going for very special occasions that you could count with fingers of one of your hands, loving your new home too much to abandon it for long, Harwin however, visited as twice as many times, being called upon by his father constantly for accounting of the Riverlands, “what do you think?” 

“I think that my father’s fears as true, we must return at once”, he said firmly

“You seem so eager to return to the capital, husband”, you muttered with bitterness

“Don’t, don’t do that” he begged. You know that even if Harrenhal was thriving under his leadership, no matter how many rides spurring his horse he took, or how much he trained, or how many times a night he took you, he had became restless, missing the fast pace of King’s Landing, and that harmed you, because you were so happy here, but you knew he was missing something to be completely full, or perhaps someone

“I don’t want to go”, you said, words stuck to your throat and tears threatened to fall from your eyes, “I have a bad feeling about this”

“Don’t cry”, he begged

“We are happy here”, you fighted, “our children can do as they please, we can do as we please…”

“This is the future of the realm”, he muttered

“The realm is going to be fine”, you said back, “they have my sister and my father… and Lord Corlys, and princess Rhaenys standing beside her…you want them to have us as well, Maekar, Rhaegar, little Aemma, and me?”

“This is your family, calling for you”, he said firmly, “we should respond to that calling”, the battle was lost, you knew, he knew it. And deep down, you did want to answer that call, but being a mother had made you selfish, self centered, putting your children and your immediate family first

“You are the Lord of Harrenhal and the leader of our family”, you said bitterly, giving up, “what you say, goes”

“Don’t be like that”, he grunted, “I would never force you to do anything”

“But you are forcing me,” you said firmly. You didn’t look at him, instead you turned your back to him and sat on the bed to remove your shoes and socks, “You call in the maester and the Housekeeper and tell them, we leave for King’s landing tomorrow” 

“Darling…” he called for you but you didn’t answer, you just left your rooms barefoot, lonely tears falling down your eyes. You ended up in the tower, you could see the God’s eye from there, and the beautiful sky with a full moon and all the stars

You didn’t want to go to the Capital, because you knew what awaited you there, and deep down you knew about the coming conflict, and the part you will play in it. Deep down you knew, you have dreamt about it many times. 

And no alliances, nor dragons, not even Harwin or all the armies you could gather will protect you from your fate. 

The carriages were getting ready, and your children couldn’t be happier, you had always taught them about being excited for new adventures, and traveling to the capital, to a huge castle like the Red Keep, filled with members of their family, and other kids, other dragons, they couldn’t be happier as you told them they could start their training. And for that you were thankful. Aemma wanted nothing more than to see the King, and Helaena, even if they never saw each other they exchanged letters alongside the king’s and the girls were fond of eachother. 

“And we could train?” asked Rhaegar, already driving you to the edge of madness with all of his questions. following you around as you commanded servants what to pack in coffers

“I’ll ask Steffon to train you himself”, you said, and they seemed content

“And me” muttered Harwin. You smiled as you stop to kiss your husband, trying to forget the fight of the night before

“Iuuuu”, mocked Rhaegar grossed out by their parents shows of affection, you just giggled as Harwin chuckled and ruffled his hair

“Maybe at court you’ll find a girl to love just as much I love your mother”, he muttered

“Ugh, father, I’m only ten!” he mocked and ran off. You laughed as you saw him go

“Great strategy, husband” you congratulated. He smiled kindly at you

“I know you didn’t want to come, but trust me on this…”

“I know”, the thing is that you trusted your own gut more than Harwin’s, but no matter, your fate was already dictated, you only had to play the game, the cards that you’ve been dealt, and… you’d always have Harrenhal if the things turned sour.

But now your other son required your attention, pulling at your arm

“Where are our dragons going to go?” asked Maekar

“Probably to the dragonpit” you answered, “I told you about it, remember?”

“Yes, but Aerion and Karnax are always in the open”, fighted Maekar

“I know my love, but it’s only for a short time”, you answered calmly. The dragonlings would usually sleep in the wild, and when the weather was hard, Vhaelar would shelter them under her huge wings, as she still recognized them as her’s. “Or they go where their mother goes, just like you”, you booped his nose and he giggled. 

And sooner than you’d like, you were ready, all the things were loaded, and only your family was left

“Can we go on dragon back, mother?”, asked Aemma, you looked at Harwin and he nodded

“Yes, sweetlings”, your sons cheered in joy. You did want to arrive on Dragonback, to show some authority. A show of strength 

And as you saw the caravan with your husband and Lyonel part before you, you looked at your children with worry, but as they looked up at you with bright smiles, you knew everything was going to be alright

Taglist! ❤️ @tearsarcane @integra1127 @aestmilky @thanyatargaryen @tythaitie @lostinworldofdarkness @voodoogoul @wildmindedbeauty32 @lil-pudd @alicattx @electric-bloo @astaaan-lol @stargaryenx @kaitieskidmore1 @bregarc @lilpnd @jcpenneyyy @janelei @fexibau @ladyoakenshield157 @danielle-leah1997 @lady-ragnvindr @cecilyjmorgenstern @omgsuperstarg @bugheadskid @batprincess1013 @her-fandom-sanctum

Notes: Karnax is the first dragon ever mounted by a man, and that man was Aerion, the very first Valyrian. They were inseparable once Karnax hatched, and then when Aerion realized he could mount him and fly in it, they founded Valyria. Those are the names chosen for the dragons of the Strong Boys

#harwin strong x reader #ser harwin x reader #harwin strong x targaryen reader #harwin strong #ser harwin strong #harwin breakbones #harwin x reader #ser harwin breakbones strong #targaryen!reader #hbo house of the dragon #house targeryen #house of the dragon #house targaryen #misguidedhotd

[death-before-ilion]

Life of Paris (Alexander)

1231 (age 0) Queen Hecabe of Troy dreams that she is about to give birth to a flaming torch that sets her city aflame. Aesacus, son of Priam by his previous wife, interprets the dream and declares the child will bring the downfall of Troy. On the day of Paris's birth, Aesacus further prophetizes that any royal child born that day would have to be killed to save Troy. Paris is born that same day before nightfall. Priam spares the child, unable to kill his own son. Herophile, priestess of Apollo, insists the child must be killed. Priam asks his chief herdsman Agelaus to kill Paris. Agelaus cannot kill the child and exposes him on Mount Ida, where he is suckled by a female bear. Five days later, Agelaus finds Paris alive and adopts him and tells Priam the child is dead.

1216 (age 15) Paris routs a gang of cattle thieves and returns the stolen animals to the herd, thus earning the nickname Alexander. Soon afterwards, Paris becomes the lover of Oenone, daughter of the river god Cebren and oread nymph of Mount Ida.

1214 (age 17) Paris and Oenone get married.

1212 (age 19) birth of their son Corythus on Mount Ida.

1211 (age 20) Paris starts organizing bull fights on Mount Ida, which he wins almost every time.

1209 (age 22) Paris offers a golden crown as a prize for his next bull fight. Ares chooses to participate, transforms into a bull and wins the contest. Paris gives the crown to Ares without hesitation, the honesty of which catches Zeus's attention and leads him to decide that Paris will award the golden apple he has been keeping since the marriage of Thetis and Peleus to the fairest goddess. Judgment of Paris: Paris attributes the golden apple to Aphrodite, earning Hera's and Athena's enmity, but winning the promise of Helen's love, most beautiful of all mortal women.

1208 (age 23) To atone for the supposed murder of his own son, Priam has been organizing expiatory games. Paris's favorite bull is taken to be the prize of this year's games. He decides to participate to win it back. Paris wins all the games, which angers his brother Deiphobus, but his sister Cassandra recognizes him with her seeress powers and Priam welcomes him back to Troy.

1207 (age 24) Paris hires Phereclus to build a fleet, as advised by Aphrodite.

1204 (age 27) Paris and his cousin Aeneas and a contingent of warriors leave for Greece, pretexting to visit and enquire about Hesione, Priam's elder sister. They travel through Greece, and when they reach Sparta, they are welcomed and entertained by Menelaus, husband of Helen who is immediately smitten with love for Paris, as promised by Aphrodite. Menelaus must leave for Crete, for the funeral of king Catreus, his grandfather. As soon as he is gone, Helen embarks with Paris for Troy. However, to avoid being pursued, they detour south of Crete, to Cyprus and Phoenicia. Paris and Aeneas sack Sidon.

1203 (age 28) The fleet reaches Troy. Paris and Helen marry.

1202 (age 29) Birth of Bunomus, their son.

1194 (age 37) Birth of Aganus, their second son.

1193 (age 38) The siege of Troy begins.

1192 (age 39) Birth of Idaeus, their third son.

1191 (age 40) Oenone sends their now adult son Corythus to Paris to participate in the war against the Greeks. He is welcomed by Helen and is stricken by her beauty. Paris does not recognize his son and kills him out of jealousy before he is informed of his identity.

1188 (age 43) Troy is struck by a minor earthquake, but the three sons of Paris and Helen are killed by the collapsing roof of their house.

1184 (age 47) Paris duels Menelaus and is saved by Aphrodite. He wounds Diomedes and later kills Achilles with an arrow guided by Apollo. Philoctetes wounds Paris with an arrow bearing the poison of the Lernaean Hydra. Helen rushes to Mount Ida to beg for Oenone's healing skills. She refuses and Paris soon dies. Oenone commits suicide.

#ancient greece #classical mythology #greek gods #greek heroes #greek mythology #mythology #trojan war #chronology #paris #priam #hecuba #helen #aeneas #achilles #diomedes #philoctetes #menelaus #oenone

[erenspussy420]

Android Au TWST pt3

You knew what you wanted to see, after all it’s exactly what brought you here in the beginning. To this odd fancy shop, looking something like a gothic romantics dream, its odd mosaic tiles and the faint smell of wood and metal. You turn to the giddy Owner, who’s eyes look bright behind her pink mask as she waits for you as patiently as she could. 

Which isn’t much seeing how the tip of her heels drag back and forth into the carpet of the floor. 

“I want to see the Pomefiore Collection,” You tell her, pointing to the halls past the painted murals of twisted apple tree’s. The manager, who’s name you should care to check their name tag, nods eagerly. She tucks away her duster into her dress, leaving no dent of it.

She swings her hands towards the halls in a grand gesture,” Right this way! This way! Here you’ll see quite the beauties that not even Royal Sword Automation can boast about!” She trills like a bird, already having her hand behind your back not touching you but still urging you into the hall.

You wisely keep your mouth shut about the Neige Unit. You only saw pictures of the Vil Unit, and God, someone must have been in a good mood to make him. The Vil Unit is notoriously expensive, and you heard of people even willing to get into debt for him, not that you could understand. Really what android is worth that pain? 

Biting your lip in excitement as you pass the murals of apple groves, at some point the budget of this company comes true as the tree branches emerge slowly out of the walls of the hall— now it feels like a small forest. As the leaves look glossy and true, branches touching you remind you of hands. At some point the hall ends at heavy doors, a bit dramatic but it adds flavor to the anticipation of the androids of Pomefiore. 

The manager pats her dress, looking and peeking into her clothes as if trying to find something. You wait patiently, but you have to admit the manager is scatterbrained. The Owner mumbles in wonder, looking into her sleeves and her apron finding nothing but lint and her invoices. She pats her hair in distress but feeling a bump in her bun, she lets out a loud triumphant cry.

“Oh! I found it! Silly me!” she giggles pulling a golden key, slim and with an odd oval handle, out of her hair bun. You grimace seeing she had to tug it  out.

“Ow! Okay, prepare to be amazed!” The manager speaks in her grand voice, with you politely clapping. ”Here the beauties of Pomefiore have no rivals! The amazing trio!”

With a soft click of the door, the loud creaks of the heavy doors give way to soft wisps of purple smoke, the room was dark with a faint gleam of marble pillars. Unlike the lower floor displays, these glass cases lay flat, their androids resting with their hands over their chests like a display of the sleeping soundly in their glowing coffins that glitter. In a way, you are reminded of the stories of sleeping princesses hidden in towers, awakened by true love’s kiss. In the darkness of the room, deep indigo tapestries hung above them, an apple, a bow, and a crown.

The manager watches you walk with a dazed look in your eyes as you find yourself drawn to the coffin-like display, glass with lights beneath, soft as the first snow. Staring at the display of a sweet face android, hair like lavender strewn across his pillow, eyes shut with lashes longer than your nails and soft pink lips. His clothes are like a kimono, like you say as there is an obvious difference in its style, with black sleeves covering his hands. His slim hands crossed over his waist with apple blossoms held between his hands. You wanted to see his eyes but that would be creepy to demand.

So you settle looking over him, wondering about his eyes, almost forgetting yourself as you touch the glass that felt warm. As you stare at them you don't hear the faint noise of metal squeaking.

“Oh! The Epel Felmier unit!” a sudden voice said way too close to your ear.

“Shit!” You yelp, frightened from the Owner suddenly appearing next to you. Scrambling, you push yourself off the poor androids display, looking at the manager with disdain. “A little bit of a warning would be nice!”

The manager shakes her hands rapidly,”My bad! I couldn’t help but notice your interest in the Epel Felmier Unit! Now let me tell you something about this short beauty, despite his cute looks he’s quite the little hot head!"

That, you can believe, as any short guy would be.

"Hard working, and willing to do just about any manly work,” She flexes her arms,” not to mention his units have been known to participate in the Harveston farming community, as a popular choice of android. A natural harvester and perfect unit for a cute sled date."

“So….a farm boy?” You ask, looking over him, and in a little awe you can spot soft delicate freckles splattered over his nose and cheeks. They're faint on his smooth 'skin' but noticeable, truly an art of the androids creators.

Even someone like yourself who lacks magic, can feel its faint pulse as they charge.

“Has the accent mode installed too!” The Owner then nudges her head to the other glowing glass case, where a taller unit is laid, in its case. Reluctantly you come to it. You can see high cheekbones, sharp with a more warmer complexion and a slight tan, his bob cut hair the color of dandelions that gently rest against the nape of his neck. Unlike the Epel unit, this one looks sturdy, his body lean but you can tell more fit with a muscular build.

" Here is the inspiration of the loyal huntsman of the Beautiful Queen. The Rook Hunt Unit! Loyal to its owner! Do you need a companion in the mountains or even your own personal ranger? Then the Hunt unit is for you. This deadly beauty is certified by most environmental rangers, and has been recommended by most outdoorsmen for those who want a guide or maybe if you are a fellow poet. Your own, admiring huntsman."

She winks as she looks down on the sleeping android. You don't blame her. Looking past his bob cut, even you had to admit there is a handsomeness to his looks, the curve of his sharp eyes closed and the dark lashes that grace his cheek bones. His lips are a bit thin, but look plump to kiss.

Unlike Epel, he held a hat that didn't match the scheme of his clothes. A brown hunter hat with a long white feather that curls. However it was his hands that rested on it that took you. Beautifully crafted, long fingers to knock bows, the grooves of his fingers and you can make a soft bump where he notches his arrows. Large hands and you can imagine what he can hold in them.

"Please stop touching the glass," The Owner pipes up, a bottle of winex in hand," it gets hard to get off."

Embarrassed, you clear your throat brushing your hair as the squeaky cleaning is done. You looked at the last coffin and felt your skin rise. 

Stepping close, almost afraid, you could see him.

The Vil Unit.

If the other two were beautiful in a delicate or handsome sort of way then Vil was another level. There is a grace he was molded in, the curve of his jaw cutting yet a softness with it. The sharp shape of his eyes, yet there is a soft roundess brought by his long lashes. His hair a pale blond shade bordering white with oddly enough a soft ombre of purple at the tips of his hair. Long and braided back into a bun with a graceful twist, a gold decorated crown seated around him with hearts. Like the other two he wore his kimono inspired dress, his hands clasped together, soft and long with sharp painted nails. Even with no makeup he was breathtaking.

You didn't pay attention to the clearing noise of the Owner as you pressed into the glass in wonder.

Vil looked beautiful, a sleeping Queen instead of a prince surrounded by light of the fake flowers in his glass, the pink tint of his lips making them look so…so..

"Soft," you murmur over his face.

"Ahem!" You're pulled out of your trance as the Owner pulls you back, her friendly grin gone."Sorry, but no kissing the display case!"

An ungodly wheeze leaves you when you realize you're practically about to smooch the glass display. Face practically hot and sweaty, you turn away immediately embarrassed.

"I'm so so so sorry!" You apologize, stumbling over to the owner," I didn't-! I uh, this is so embarrassing!"

Feeling merciful the Owner sighs and begins to walk over with a winex bottle in hand and a towel she had on hand somewhere. "It's alright, you aren't the first one to try that," She sighs as she depressingly cleans Vil's display," this android gets more action than all of us."

That's oddly depressing, you think but you have no room to talk since you just tried to smooch the display.

Wiping down Vil's coffin, the Owner pipes up with a much warmer voice," As you can already tell Vil is our top best seller, a legacy android of the Schoenheit line, a popular model with both young and older groups. Whatever you want, an actor, a singer or even a trainer, Vil can do it. He's the best of the best, and can make anyone beautiful under his certified guided hands. As are most of our unit have been certified in their respective groups and for our customers' health."

"Oh! I know how handsome he is! Vil's tend to trend more!" Gushing over him, she looks at you with a more sympathetic look.

"Just looking at you, you might not be able to afford him but that's okay, he's too good for us both." She said assuring you.

"What! I can afford him!" You said defensively. Your bank account says otherwise but you will not acknowledge that or the loans.

"Yes of course!" She claps her hands rapidly like some golfer groupie," Customer can afford our brand lines like Vil!"

Oh, oh this owner! Annoyed, you look over Vil's display case to see how expensive and exclusive he must be just to see if you can pay it off in payments. Taking a glance at the pricing, your abruptly turn around on your heel and squeak," So about those other units!"

The Owner brightens and begins showing you out of the Pomefiore room and out into the dark hall.

Vil would have broken you.

#twst android au #android au #twisted wonderland #reader x twst #rook hunt #rook hunt x reader #rook hunt twisted wonderland #twst epel #epel felmier #epel x you #vil shoenheit x reader #vil schoenheit #twst vil

[descendantofthesparrow]

what i got so far-this is only a draft

-Rise of Red rewrite-no knowledge of canon plot les goo-

-camera/shot zooms across Auradon and the freed isle, which has been overgrown with foliage as the people of the isle had abandoned the place they called prison, Uma begins to narrate as the camera pans over to Auradon prep and stained glass images of famous Disney princesses and princes-

Uma: I'm sure you know all the tales by now. how Prince Phillip defeated Maleficent and woke up the Princess Aurora with true loves kiss, how Prince Eric saved Ariel by spearing Ursula with a sunken ship, and how Tiana defeated the shadow man and learned love was all she really needed.

You've heard them all before, and I'm sure you've heard our stories, how the vks choose good, to rise above our parent's pasts, to become more than just 'villain kids'. Well, now it's time for a new tale, for the 'new' vks and auradon kids who are just waiting to tell their story, and it's sure to be an exciting one.

Because, you didnt think that was the end of the story...did you? (Uma laugh™)

-end opening credits with classic Descendants title card, the apple breaking to reveal the queen of hearts card-

-scene one-

-the Camera pans back to Auradon prep, the Descendants ost music in the background as it pans across portraits of the graduated vks from the last 3 movies, along with official portraits of ex-King Beast and ex-Queen Belle, and the current king and queen of Auradon-Ben and Mal, Mal’s plum purple hair streaked with blue is tied back into a low bun, her bangs framing her face with the queens crown upon her head, wearing a elegant blue/purple dress that compliments Ben’s royal suit, which bears a golden sash and gold braiding hanging off his shoulder from his shoulder paldrons. Both are smiling at the camera, Mal sitting in a chair with Ben behind her, his crown upon his head as his hands rest on Mal’s bare shoulders-

-The camera continues to pan out of Auradon prep and into a nearby rabbit hole, disappearing into a vortex of wonderland magic as the music changes into a more wonderland vibe, going through the scenery of wonderland, passing by the queen of hearts castle until it goes into the city of hearts, where a girl draped in red and blacks carrying a big duffle bag appears on screen, the camera following her feet until she steps in front of a blank red brick wall. She drops the duffle bag, the ost for rotten to the core starts, takes out several spray cans, and begins to put up her art; mimicking Mal from D1 as she puts up a queen of hearts style of ‘long live evil!’.-

-the girl finishes the piece after a little montage of her laying it down, a smirk on her obscured face. The music cuts suddenly as a rageful voice echoes out from the castle. “QUINN HEARTS!!!” The girl ducks down and stuffs her spray cans into the bag, booking it back across the city towards the castle. Upon arriving in the gardens she chunks the bag into a set of bushes, takes off her jacket, hides behind a bush, and reappears in a different outfit, revealing her face as she quickly fixes up her hair into her rose buns.-

-“Quinn hearts!!!” the rageful voice says again and Quinn/Red grabs a pair of boots she left by the side door as she heads inside, hurridly shoving them on as she holds bobby pins In her mouth, zipping them up and finishing her hair before booking it towards the throne room, skidding to a stop right before entering and taking a breath before throwing open the doors and strutting in, head held high. “mother, I could hear you from gardens, you didn’t need to let the whole kingdom know it was time for tea.” Quinn snarks and the queen of hearts huffs

yeah idk im going off vibes

#disney descendants #draft work

[sweetestofchaos]

Blackthorn Ch 1 | M.YG

Pairing: Crown Prince Dragon!Yoongi x Crown Princess Impundulu!Keena Genre: Soulmate AU | Arranged Marriage AU | Fantasy AU | Fluff Word Count: 6.1K Warnings: None...very soft entry chapter Rating: PG16

Hello Princess -  Princess Keena and her envoy enter the Min Empire. There, Prince Yoongi and the Princess meet face to face.

a/n: Shout out to the great @sailoryooons for being my beta/banner maker! Also huge thanks to @nabiolive and @jessikahathaway for yelling at me to keep a special part of this chapter’s ending.

Taglist: @thickemadame​

Series Masterlist | Masterlist

Previous | Next

A sherbet colored sky, kissed with endless puffs of white cotton went for as far as the eye could see. Below, the land a mix of forest greens, sandy browns and deep greys were cracked with bottomless shades of blue. The air was crisp; it called to mind the bite of a fresh picked apple on warmer spring days. Light, weightless, disconnected from the turmoil left behind in a land a nation away. A given name, a title that held more power than any amount of gold sat coldly in a chest that heart was beating faster than the wings of a hummingbird. This was for the good of the people, the good of the nations; two different worlds coming together as one.

Beautiful ruby red and white klei eagles flew in a tight formation around a giant cape teal duck, its wings were a glossy muted grey with browner ones on its back. A spot of bright yellow hovered in the air, one single pale yellow eye peered into the modified gama attached securely to the back of the duck. The purple curtains were pinned down to keep the cool air from freezing the occupant tucked away inside. As the sun graced the sky with its warmth and bright light, a demure and soft silhouette was cast against the light fabric. The Citron Crane’s voice sang and echoed across the sky as the Min Empire’s shoreline came into view. Below on the coast, a small envoy of royal guards and emissaries waited with bated breath as the large cape teal, the size of four oxen, descended from the sky and sank into the water. The eagles formed a tighter barrier around the duck as the Citron Crane flew ahead while the duck paddled in the water towards the shoreline.

The crane stood at the water’s edge, its soft yellow wings reflected off the water’s surface before it shifted silently. A large man with rich oakwood skin and yellow topaz eyes, stood before the Min Empire’s envoy. His hair was twisted tightly in neat ropes of thick braids with gold and yellow feathers clipped to a few to show his high position in the Escistan’s royal guard. His robes were vibrant, fiery red and yellow, stitched together by careful hands. A large golden medellin rested in the center of his chest, a hamerkop with a bolt of lightning behind it carved into the metal, the royal sigil of Escistan. The head of the Min Emperor's royal guard stepped forward and hit his chest with a closed fist, a common greeting among soldiers.

“The Min Empire welcomes you with open arms.” The man had fair skin, scares littering his hands and face. His outfit was muted grey, cream, blue and peach while his brown hair was pulled into a topknot. “I am Daehyun. General of the royal guard. I will take you and your company to the palace.”

“I am Aga, second in command of the Escistan army -” Aga crossed his arms over his chest and bowed his head. “-the Princess looks forward to her audience with his Majesty.”

Aga turned his attention to the duck behind him as its webbed feet slapped against the ground.  The eagles around the duck shifted and in their place stood six large men dressed in the same armor as Aga without the golden medellin around their necks.

“Bese kò ou.” Aga commanded over his shoulder to the duck.

The cape teal duck settled on the stony beach and four members of Daehyun’s group stepped forward to lower the gama from the duck’s back. Aga held his hand out with his palm facing outward and the small group stopped.

“No need.”

At his words, all heads tilted upward towards the sky and Daehyun was shocked to see a small formation of large brown birds still in the sky. The birds flew towards the ground, openbill storks, and shifted easily into servants all dressed in different shades of tans and yellows. Aga nodded his head and four servants walked over to the cape teal. Aga watched as they easily untied the gama and situated it over their shoulders without the Princess being jostled too much.

“Ale lakay.”

Aga waved his hand towards the sky and the duck flew away with a soft quack that whistled. He reached into the brown pouch on his hip and pulled out a small, smooth, round bead, the size of a walnut and the color of fallen snow. Daehyun watched as Aga threw the bead to the ground and it split in half with a small spark. In its place, between the broken halves a black Vlaamperd horse stood strong and unphased.

“A Charoite bead? I’ve never seen one in person.”

“Many in our lands,” Aga pulled himself onto the horse's back and motioned for his company to do the same. The members in Aga’s party pulled a Charoite bead from around their necks and threw it to the ground. Ten Vlaamperd horses stood in place and waited as their riders jumped onto their backs. Aga fell into Daehyun’s formation with the rest of his own people. He kept his eyes on the Princess’ gama as he passed and took his place at the front of the formation. “Lead the way.”

The journey to the palace was silent, the steady clip clop of horse hooves acted as a cadence. The path to the capital was filled with wide planes of grass, wheat and wildflowers. Farmland stretched on for miles, different crops created a colorful backdrop as the empire came into view. Women and men alike stopped their daily chores as the procession passed by. The outskirts of the capital were well taken care of. The people weren’t dressed in the finest of robes but they weren’t dirty or covered in rags. From his place above the ground, Aga took notice of a large box that many of the younger villagers sat in. It seemed to hold sand from the beach for them to play in. 

Horns and drums signaled their arrival as they passed the gates to enter the capital and the townsfolk were lined up on the side of the marketplace, pushing each other to get a better glimpse of the passing procession. A large golden dragon, the sigil of the Min Empire, embroidered on the banners of the procession gained everyone’s attention. Deep blues, vibrant purples and radiant golds dazzled the common folk as a single gamma was carried past by four strongly built men, not from this region of the world. They were outsiders, their dark skin tones a stark difference to the lightly tanned faces shielding them. They were honored guests being led to the palace by the Emperor’s very own royal guards. 

Aga rode with a purpose and once he passed through the town, he let himself breathe properly for a moment. Once at the palace gates, the procession came to a smooth halt and Daehyun announced the arrival of their foreign guests. As the gates opened music started to play and the procession continued to march into the palace’s open courtyard. 

The stonework was inviting as it led towards the steps of the emperor’s throne room where he sat proud with his wife - the empress - and his only son, the crowned prince by his side in front of him. As drums banged out a traditional greeting as the procession came to a full stop in front of the steps and Aga unmounted from his horse. 

The gamma was lowered to the ground and Aga walked over as the curtain was pulled back. From his seat at the front of the throne, the crowned prince, Yoongi, watched as the man held out his hand. A breeze blew through the palace, freshly fallen dogwood petals caught in the current. As a small dark hand, rich and smooth like the brown obsidian gems in the north, poked out from the gamma, Yoongi’s dragon growled low in his chest. Princess Keena emerged from the carrier and the petals seemingly danced around her. Yoongi couldn’t get a good look at the young princess, for her face was covered by a bold orange veil that only showed her warm brown eyes, lined in thick charcoal. She was stunning and Prince Yoongi couldn’t look away.

As the guard led the Princess up the steps, the rest of the procession followed before the head attendant announced the Princess’ arrival at last. Her royal garb was bright, brighter than any sunrise Prince Yoongi remembered seeing. The clothing was different, two main articles, a skirt and blouse joined together by short and long pieces of fabric wrapped at the Princess’ waist while a large strip of woven fabric rested across her left shoulder. A matching headdress sat on the Princess’s head; braided fabric twisted and piled into a crown with the veil attached neatly.

Princess Keena removed her hand from the guard; golden bangles and rings caught the light as she crossed her arms over her chest with her hands on opposite shoulders before she offered an eighty-degree bow, her eyes downcast to the floor. Beside her, the guard dropped to one knee and crossed his arms over his chest as well, lowering his head.

“The nation of Escistan gives thanks to the Min Empire. May the sun grant you many bright days ahead.”

The princess raised to her full height and the guard behind her did the same before he rolled his shoulders. A small group of emissaries came forth, carrying large chests filled with a cornucopia of rare goods from the foreign nation. One by one the chests were opened before the royal family and the Princess looked on with a smile hidden behind her veil as the Emperor's piercing copper eyes shined brightly.  

“My father sends well wishes and hope for endless joys in the days to come.” Princess Keena, motioned to the large man beside her, “- Aga, is my father’s testament to our nation's strength. He will teach your army the way of our warriors.”

The Emperor smiled, a single dimple sunk deep into his skin. He clapped his hands, covered in small jade and pearl colored scales, as he looked at the gifts before him, his blood red robes swayed around his wrists.

“Your tributes are as beautiful as they are rare. I hope our alliance with Escistan will only grow stronger during your stay, Princess Keena. The Min Empire welcomes you with open arms!”

Emperor Min stood from his seat, and everyone dropped to a bow while the Princess lowered her head, with her hands clasped in front of her. Emperor Min offered his hand to his wife and helped her stand before he turned his attention to the Princess again with an unknown light in his eyes.

“The Empress has hand selected your attendants; they will help you settle into your chambers at once. We shall hold a banquet in your honor tonight and welcome you once again to the Min Empire!”

The Emperor’s eyes crinkled at the corners as he stared at the princess, and he ran his tongue over the sharp fangs in his mouth.

“Your attendants will be shown to their quarters and will teach your new hands the customs of your nation. Do you have any requests for me?”

“Thank you for thinking of my comfort, your Majesty. I have no requests.”

Satisfied with the Princess’ response, the Emperor exited the throne room with the Empress on his arm. Prince Yoongi stood to his full height and walked down the set of steps before he stopped in front of the Princess. Prince Yoongi kept his face neutral as he offered his arm to the Princess.

“Allow me to show you the way to your chambers, Princess?”

Princess Keena bit her lip to keep from laughing at Yoongi. He was much more serious than she thought he would be. She nodded her head once and placed her hand on the Prince’s forearm, the fabric of his red gangsapo the only thing that kept their skin from touching. The remaining members of court bowed deeply as the Prince and Princess exited the throne room and Aga stayed six steps behind the pair. Hoseok, Prince Yoongi’s personal guard fell in step beside him and the two exchanged a simple nod in greeting.

“Did you have a pleasant time during your travels?” Prince Yoongi stared straight ahead as he spoke and the Princess thought about her trip. It was pleasant enough, no one had been hurt or gotten sick.

“It was a long but safe journey, my Prince.”

Yoongi’s dragon coiled tightly around his heart when his title rolled off the Princess’ tongue. It was a pleasing sound. Yoongi nodded his head and spoke no more as the pair walked down long corridors that turned every which way. Guards, servants and council alike all bowed low as they passed. Some looked at the Princess for longer than was deemed polite and Hoseok kept a running checklist in his mind to report on later.

The Princess took the chance to glance at Yoongi’s profile. He was not what the Princess expected. The words he shared with her in his letters were the rawest form of his soul. He was rose petal soft and fruit with honey sweet but there in front of her, Prince Yoongi had a firm jawline enhanced by patches of black scales. His eyebrows were a dark contrast to his blond hair and the Princess wondered if that was a trait given to everyone or just dragons. What she had imagined to be dark brown irises were the blackest pits of tar that reflected the sun and shined just right behind small triangular eyes. Prince Yoongi was jagged, rough around the edges, but his written words told the Princess of a much softer, warm summer days side to him.

“Here are your personal chambers, Princess.” Yoongi stopped in front of two armed guards. They stepped to the side to show a set of large red oak doors with a blackthorn tree in the center of a beautiful hand carved and painted black dragon. “I hope you find everything to your liking. Please, do not hesitate to ask for anything during your stay.”

“Thank you, your Highness.”

The Prince fought the muscle on his face. He didn’t like that the princess had called him by such a formal title. He stared at the Princess for a moment and she stared back. Her eyes told him everything her words could not. She had changed his title because others were around. Yoongi moved his arm, turnt right side up before he pulled it back and allowed for the Princess’ hand to slide into his. Their palms touched and warmth filled the Princess’ cheeks. The Prince’s hand was hot, liquid heat ran beneath his skin and his nails were long, the tips filed to a blunt point. The Prince hadn’t broken his stare with the Princess and wrapped his fingers lightly around her hand.

“Will you allow me the honor of escorting you to the banquet tonight?”

“It would be my honor, your Highness.”

Yoongi bit his tongue and kept from speaking out while Princess Keena slowly pulled her hand from his. Her own nails lightly scratched Prince Yoongi’s palm and the Prince nodded his head as he took a step back, a shiver crawling up his arm and down his spine.

“Would you allow me to send a small welcome gift?”

“It would honor me, so.”

Prince Yoongi bowed his head and Princess Keena repeated the motion.

“Rest well, Princess.”

The Prince walked away with Hoseok right behind him while Aga grabbed the Princess’ attention. He looked at the doors and Princess Keena nodded her head, “Ou mèt tcheke, Aga.” 

The guards pushed open the doors and the servants inside all rushed to stand in a single file line as they heard the doors open. Aga walked into the room first and the Princess stepped inside after. She watched as Aga searched the room for any hidden dangers while the women cowered away from his stoic face. Aga nodded to the Princess and placed a hand over his heart before he bowed his head.

"Mwen pral-" Aga started to complain, and Princess Keena shook her head.

"Ou pral tcheke chanm ou yo epi tounen yon fwa ou fin etabli, Aga."  Princess Keena smiled as she motioned towards the women in the room and Aga sighed knowing that the Princess was right, she was in good hands. "Mwen nan bon men. Montre fanm sa yo respè yo merite.”

Aga pressed his mouth into a firm line at the Princess’ words and turned towards the four women in the room who were all equally confused by their shared words. Aga bowed quickly and left the room. Once the door shut behind Aga, Princess Keena turned towards the women and bowed her head.

“I am Princess Keena, daughter of King Baasi and Queen Tiali. Please lend me your hands and forgive me for I do not yet fully speak your mother tongue.”

The four women all bowed deeply and smiled softly at the Princess. Her dress was something they had never seen before, and it was beautiful. However, it was not something that the Princess could wear to the banquet tonight. The tallest of the four women stepped forward and introduced herself as Kim Yongsun and the others were Byulyi, Wheein and Hyejin. Yongsun explained to the Princess as she spoke slowly that they were to bathe and dress her for the banquet that night as well as give her a small lesson on their etiquette.

“I would like to learn your etiquette first. My attendants will be with us shortly to help with my undress.”

“As you wish, Princess.”

Yongsun led the Princess to a table that sat low to the floor where Hyejin sat with a small smile on her face. As the Princess sat and started her lesson with Hyejin, the other women bustled around the room as they put away the Princess’ possession. A knock at the door grabbed Byulyi’s attention and she rushed to the door. She opened the door and bowed a quarter of the way as she stepped back to allow Princess Keena’s servant to enter the room. 

Izaso, Keena’s head servant crossed her arms over her chest and bowed her head. The four other women did the same as Princess Keena stood to her feet. “Nou la pou ede. Ki kote ou ta renmen nou Princess?” Izaso questioned as she looked around the room.

“Izaso, sa yo se medam yo ki pral okipe bezwen mwen isit la nan palè a. Tanpri montre yo etap dezabiye mwen pou aswè a.” Princess Keena explained to Izaso and the other servants that they had to work together to get her ready for the banquet tonight.

Princess Keena watched as Yongsun lined her women up and Izaso did the same. Yongsun started the introductions and Izaso allowed for the servants under her to speak first. Alinafe, Fatsani, Limbani, and Chimika introduced themselves in broken Laibic and the Princess was proud. She had spent a few days prior to leaving her nation teaching her servant how to say simple Laibic phrases so that they could ask for help if they needed any.

As the women spoke, the Princess acted as the translator and together the nine women started the long process of readying the Princess for the upcoming banquet. When the Princess’ crown was removed, Wheein was surprised to see that the hair wasn’t straight like her own. Princess’ Keena had hair that reached down towards the floor and stopped at the small of her lower back. Her hair was darker than any ink within the palace and it smelled of the sweetest fruits and flowers. It was twisted into tight braids only a blueberry in diameter with golden metal wire wrapped around different braids. Small golden jewelry with different gemstones were also attached to the braids.

The shock on Wheein’s face wasn’t hidden fast enough and Chimika laughed before she showed the young woman how to carefully wrap the Princess’ hair so that it wouldn’t get wet while bathing. Once Princess Keena’s hair was piled on top of her head and wrapped messily in a headscarf, it was Fatsani and Hyejin’s turn to bathe the Princess. The private washroom was huge, smooth stones covered the floor and dipped down into a wide open pool of water. Rocks of different sizes lined the wall that blocked the inside from anyone who would have tried to look in. It was beautiful and the Princess felt excited at the thought of bathing. 

Hyejin reaches out to untie one of the wraps on the Princess’s waist and Fatsani was quick to stop her. Hyejin looked confused and Princess Keena smiled softly, she knew what Fatsani was afraid of. The Princess cleared her throat and focused solely on Hyejin as she spoke.

“Do you know of the Impundulu, Hyejin? It is known as the lighten bird in my nation. The Impundulu has ruled Escistan since the first rainfall.” Princess Keena motioned for Fatsani to remove her iborun and pele. “The mark of the Impundulu is a sign of royal blood. Every blood born Impundulu has these marks somewhere on their body.” Princess Keena thought over the words that would best explain her feelings and she cleared her throat.

“The mark of the Impundulu isn’t always pleasant to look at but it is a mark I wear with pride…I hope that these marks do not frighten you.” 

Once the Princess was finished talking, Fatsani allowed for Hyejin to help with the undress and made sure that Hyejin stayed in front of the Princess at all times. Hyejin folded the clothing and placed them on a wooden cart to keep from getting wet and when she turned back around, she covered her mouth, her startled gasp muffled. Princess Keena was faced away from Hyejin, her back fully exposed. Hyejin could see dark scarring that resembled ice crystals in the shape of wings. It was a beautiful and terrifying sight, the scars weren’t raised, they were placed directly along the slope of the Princess’s back. Hyejin thought back to what she had been told about the Impundulu and all that came to mind were Hamerkop's wings. 

Hyejin made no comments on the Princess’s scars and Fatsani offered the Princess a hand to help her into the waters. When Princess Keena stepped into the water, she was surprised to find that the rocks on the bottom were heated which kept the water warm.

“Fire stones, Princess.” Hyejin had explained when she saw the Princess pause in her steps. “There are many magic stones and gems in the palace that make life more practical.”

Fatsani and Hyejin showed each other their methods to cleaning and Princess Keena enjoyed the extra attention. She had been worried that Hyejin would no longer want to be her attendant, but Hyejin showed no sign of leaving. 

The journey to the Min Empire was long and the air quality wasn’t always the best. The Princess felt dirty enough that the extra fussing didn’t bother her.  Once out of the bathing waters, Princess Keena was quickly patted dry before Fatsani helped her into a thin cream and gold dressing robe. In the main room, Byulyi and Alinafe discussed the best way to style the Princess’ hair for the banquet. Alinafe wanted to do a traditional style from the Escistan kingdom while Byulyi thought it best to do a hairstyle in favor of the Min Empire. Limbani was smart enough to suggest that they mix the two styles and when there was a knock at the door, Yongsun was quick to rush and answer it.

Hidden behind the white Hanji partition with golden leaves painted along the border, Princess Keena stood nude while Limbani massaged citrus and sweet scented oils to her skin before the Princess slipped her robe back on. While hidden, a male servant entered the room with a large box in his hands. He set the beautiful, decorated chest on the ottoman by the bed and left with a small bow of his head. Yongsun clapped her hands and called for the Princess.

“His Imperial Highness has sent you a gift, Princess.”

Princess Keena couldn’t stop the smile that danced on her lips. She stepped from behind the partition and walked over towards the large platform bed. The chest in front of her was no bigger than a large shoe box and it was decorated in gold paint and jade gems. 

“What do you think it is, Princess?” Izaso wondered out loud and the Princess had no clue. She thought back to the letters exchanged with Yoongi and one thing came to mind.

As careful as she could, the Princess opened the chest and everyone’s eyes widened at the items inside. A delicate pair of matching golden hair pins sat on top, a cluster of blackthorn flowers replicated by mother of pearls, yellow apetites and jades shone in the soft sunlight that came into the room. Underneath the hair pins a pouch rested neatly. Princess Keena picked it up and was shocked by the craftsmanship. The pouch itself was light weight, a little larger than the size of her fist. Its body was round with a squared neck that would be cinched by black silk strings. The purse was a soft lilac with a black dragon embroidered into the center, around the bottom of the bag golden flower petals lay while the dragon rested beneath a large blackthorn tree.

Princess Keena traced over the blackthorn tree and smiled. How many times had she spoken of her favorite flowers? The Prince remembered and that made the Princess’ heart flutter in her chest. Attached to the pouch was a gold tassel that had a large white moonstone encased in a beautiful cross stitch. When the Princess looked at it more, she saw that the moonstone opened and inside was hollowed out and stored two rings with thin gold bands and three white scolecite gems on each. “What is the name of this?” Princess Kenna asked and Byulyi answered that the pouch was called a Duru-Jumeoni and the tassel was called a Norigae.

Princess Keena set the Duru-Jumeoni aside and laughed, the chime like bells loud and clear as she stared down at the Min dynasty inspired Dashiki. Prince Yoongi had asked many questions about the type of clothing the Princess wore, and she had sent him a few pieces to see for himself in person. A Boubou in black and gold, colors that the Prince had stated he liked and a Kente, in red, black and gold to contrast the Boubou if he were to ever wear the two together. The Dashiki was lilac, white and a darker purple with gold and black beading embroidered along the rounded neckline and colorful patchwork on the arms and bottom. Princess Keena was impressed, the Prince had taken notes and put them to use.

“Do you like it, Princess?” Yongsun had asked and Princess Keena touched the garment lightly, the smile still on her face.

“These are very thoughtful. I’ll be sure to thank his Highness at the banquet.”

“Would you like to wear the hair pins tonight?”

“Oh! They would look wonderful with your hanbok!” Byulyi gushed and the women all nodded their heads in agreement.

Princess Keena allowed for the women to use her new hair accessories and she sat before the mirror while Byuyl and Alinafe applied mint and argan oil to the Princess’ scalp and hair before they started to style it together. Izaso and Yongsun took their time as they applied lip tint, eye liner and rouge to the Princess’ face.

“Èske rad yo pare?” Izaso looked away from the Princess’ face towards where the other women were smoothing out a lilac colored hanbok that had many more pieces than the Escistan Iro ati Buba that the Princess wore earlier. Wheein giggled as she grabbed the matching socks and shoes. Everything was ready; they just needed the Princess's body. 

Fatsani spoke up and answered Izaso’s question that everything was ready. Satisfied with Princess Keena’s hair, Izaso and Yongsun each placed a hair pin neatly in place before they led the Princess over to the bed and stepped back to allow for Fatsani and Hyejin to handle the dressing. Princess Keena removed her dressing gown and followed the simple instructions that Hyejin gave while Fatsani assisted with the unknown garments. The Princess counted in her head each item that was placed onto her body, and she was surprised that seven items didn’t feel heavy at all. Her range of motion was still flexible and when Izaso placed her dressing gown back on, the Princess sighed.

“There are five more pieces that need to be worn,” Wheein had explained. “However, we will get back to your etiquette lessons until it’s time for the banquet.”

Once again, at the desk with Hyejin, Princess Keena started her lessons while the rest of the women tidied up the room. Limbani came over the small desk and suggested that the Princess take a break and enjoy some refreshments that were brought in. Princess Keena agreed and Lambani carried a tray of small sweets over. 

“What you have in front of you is Yakgwa, a honey pastry -” Byulyi pointed to the deep fried treat. “- Bukkumi, a rice cake dumpling with sweet red beans -” Byulyi again pointed to another treat that was shaped like white half moons with colorful edible flowers on them “- and lastly, we have Dasik, a tea cookie!” Byulyi beamed, as she offered the plate of small colorful cookies to the Princess.

“These all look wonderful. Thank you for sharing them with me.” Princess Keean tried the Bukkumi first, and she enjoyed the soft and chewy texture. While she ate and practiced her etiquette, Princess Keena offered the treats to the women, and they all agreed that it was best to partake so that the Princess could show what she learned. 

Once the treats were eaten, Yongsun called for someone to take the empty trays away and Princess Keena started to get restless. The sun hadn’t set much, it was just past midday which meant there was still a lot of time that needed to pass before the banquet. 

“Would you like to rest before the banquet?” Yongsun offered and Izaso had started to protest when Yongsun motioned towards the bed.

“May I step outside for some air?” Princess Keena requested and Yongsun looked towards the door.

“I will ask for a guard to guide you.”

Yongsun stepped out of the room and Wheein jumped to her feet. “If you are going out, we need to finish getting you dressed, Princess.”

Princess Keena nodded her head and watched as Wheein and Hyejin rushed about the room, a different hanbok in their arms.

“So that your hanbok for the banquet doesn’t get dirty during your walk, Princess.” Byulyi explained as she grabbed matching socks and shoes.

"Izaso, Alinafe, Fatsani, Limbani, ak Chimika, yo ranvwaye ou. Tanpri repoze byen epi jwi aswè a."

Princess Keena’s servants crossed their arms over their chest and bowed their heads before they took their leave and soon after Yongsun came back into the room while the other women were dressing the Princess. 

“Minho has been tasked with escorting you, Princess. Your guard Aga is outside as well.”

“Thank you, Yongsun.” Princess Keena smiled brightly and held onto Hyejin and Wheein while Byulyi helped her into her footwear. The hanbok that the Princess wore was cream colored with light and dark shades of pink throughout that tied everything together. Princess Keena waited while Yongsun opened the door and Aga stood tall in a fresh new uniform that matched the guard beside him. "Koulè yo kostim ou, Aga."

Aga smoothed down his new uniform and grunted before he offered Princess Keena his arm while the guard beside him bowed deeply. “I am Choi Minho and it would be my honor to lead you through our gardens, Princess.”

Minho was charming, he had a strong face and eyes that were very expressive. He was older than Aga and that made the Princess trust him more. Princess Kenna bowed her head as she placed her hand on Aga’s arm.

“I leave myself in your care, Minho.”

Minho led the way through the palace with the Princess, Aga, Wheein and Hyejin in tow, Servants and guards alike all stopped and bowed when the Princess passed by. She kept her head held high and once outside in the fresh air; Princess Keena inhaled the flora scents around her. Many scents she had not smelled before and it was all a little overwhelming. Wheein stepped away to grab another round of refreshments for the Princess while she enjoyed her time outside. Minho led the Princess to a small gazebo that was on the edge of what looked to be a cherry blossom garden. Each breeze lifted fallen petals into the air and Princess Keena watched with sparkling eyes as the petals waltzed around her. Princess Keena sat on the pale green bench and stared out at the cherry blossom trees, as a million different thoughts swirled in her mind.

“Princess, would you care for some tea?” Hyejin offered as Wheein stepped into the gazebo.

Princess Keena nodded her head in thanks and waited silently as a cup of tea was poured for only herself.

“Minho?”

“Yes, Princess?” Minho turned to face the Princess and watched her with wide eyes.

“How many gardens are on the grounds?”

Minho thought for a moment, of course he knew the answer, but he had to check with himself to make sure. “Six gardens, Princess. I have been told that a seventh garden is in the process of being added.”

“This is a beautiful place. It’s peaceful and offers a sense of comfort.”

“Her Majesty is very fond of cherry blossoms.”

Princess Keena turned her face upward, reached out a hand and a cherry blossom petal fell into her palm. Aga watched with a fond hint of some memory in his eyes as the Princess closed her hand into a fist and pulled her hand to her chest. She whispered a quiet wish to the petal and opened her palm with a soft smile on her face. The breeze blew; up, up and away the petal went as it carried the Princess’ unknown wish. 

The petal was carried on the wind, lightly and surely as it soon found home on the shoulder of Prince Yoongi. He sat by his window, the sunlight warmed him from the outside in, with his eyes closed. When the petal landed on his shoulder, Yoongi’s eyes opened slowly, and he glanced at his shoulder. The petal stood out, small, pink and fragile against his blood red robes and he carefully plucked it between his fingers. 

Prince Yoongi stared at the petal silently and turned his attention back to the sun outside. He sighed and reached his hand out the window, before he parted his fingers and let the petal continue its journey. He watched the petal as it flew alone, and he frowned to himself unsure why he felt a sudden rush of longing.

“Hoseok!” Prince Yoongi called out and shortly after, Hoseok appeared beside him right outside of his window. “Where is the Princess?”

“Princess Keena is in the cherry blossom garden.”

Yoongi blinked slowly at the information and stood from his seat. “Let’s go.”

“Wait! Your hair!” Hoseok grabbed the sleeve of Prince Yoongi’s gangsapo and climbed through the window. “Her Majesty will have my head if I let you walk around with your hair like this.” Hoseok pushed the Prince towards his vanity and quickly fixed his topknot before he deemed the Prince good enough to be seen outside of his chambers. 

Together, Prince Yoongi and Hoseok left the bed chambers and made their way to the cherry blossom garden. In the distance Prince Yoongi saw the Princess under the gazebo as she chatted away. Prince Yoongi fought the smile that tugged at his lips and the moment Minho saw him, the older man cleared his throat and bowed deeply. Princess Keena looked in the direction of which Minho was bowing, and she rose to her feet while the others around her bowed. 

Prince Yoongi stood before the Princess and she gave him a pleasant bow before she greeted him with that charmed smile of hers. The Prince stared at the Princess and bowed slightly, “Hello, Princess.”

#soc yoongi #blackthorn ch 1 #dragon!yoongi #bts fantasy au #bts royal au #bts yoongi

[starshinedragon]

SSO: LIFE WARDENS The magic trees of Jorvik

Main tree: Jordrassil in the Jorcrater -> The Crater is where the first pandorian contact happened, Aideen met the centaurs -> She combined the 3 magics (Light, Earth, Pandorian) and fought Garnok. -> Jordrassil is the first tree, manifestation of Aideen’s life powers. -> Also the place where she dispersed, gave up her light and souls to the creatures of the island -> Master portal- planted many other trees on the island, so she can get around quicky in the war. -> Jordrassil has the strongest hints of Aideen’s light (other than MC) would be a top prize for G to corrupt

Life Wardens: Primeival trees -> Fast travel system, their roots for portals after saying the right incantation.  -> From Jordrassil you can fast travel to ANY (living, friendly) tree -> From other trees only to the next in the network -> Guarding and strengthening any magic: Aideen’s or Garnok’s if corrupted. -> They can be awakened and speak, have different personalities.

1. Harvestlands: -> Sleeping Widow: Forgotten Fields. Helped Lisa, 1st one we meet. Wants to reconnect with the other Trees. Protective of the little one also growing in the Forgotten fields. -> Golden Lady: Scarecrow Hill. Grows Golden Apples, which are pure Aideen/Light power. Neighbors and best friends with the Widow. -> Ancient Sentinel: Wildwoods. Protected by the Wild Horse tribes. There is a pandorian rift underwater in the lake, through which Pandorian magic seeps through, infects the area. We close it when Garnok fully corrupts Pandoria and manage to prevent the Sentinel from being corrupted. -> Singing Yew: South Hoof. Helped Justin. Slumbering in the fields, the winds blowing through the branches make a song. -> Silent Poplar: Firgrove Mountain. Very mysterious. Turns out a hundred years ago he was corrupted and almost lost to the darkness, but they used the cleansing ritual to save him. -> Hidden Willow: Fort Maria. Hiding underground in a cave, guarding the library. The first place we go when we unlock the Tree Portal fast travel system. Guards the knowledge about the Life Wardens.

2. Winterdale -> Fire Glory: Ashland. Red pine, likes the warmth there, very lively, constantly talks about how much she likes the warm and finds the fires and the volcano beautiful. -> Glacier Heart: Dino Valley. Sister to the Ashland one, likes the cold. Constantly annoyed by Fire Glory’s neverending chitchat about Ashland, which she can hear. -> Astral Crown: Starshine mountain. Next to the Secret Stone Circle, protects it, she is why the DRs can’t come close to the circle. -> Silver Runebark: Rimefang woods. Silver leafs, revered by the Kallters, likes them, his bark covered in glowing azure runes. -> Wise Leaf : Anvil woods. Helped the druids protect the forest from DC, gives them advice. Talks in verses, metaphors and tales.

3. Springvalley -> Royal Cedar: Blossom woods. Majestic and reliable, he has been guarding the Blossom woods and Springvalley from the storm in Winterdale. -> Everbloom Elm: Everspring plateau. Covered in various flowers, she’s very proud of them. Gives you some random herbs every day if you go say hi to her. The tree is so full of herself, she’s basically giving you an autograph, don’t worry about it. -> Sun Queen: Suncrown lake. Cleansed from corruption by MC and SRs. Protects the Von Blyssen manor and vineyard. -> Twilight Oak: Morrinweald. The source of the valas’ power. Was corrupted by dark powers, later cleansed by MC and SRs.

4. Summerplains -> Restored Guardian: The Great Clearing. Was cut down long ago. We grow it back, like the one in Forgotten Fields. -> Elder Witchwood: Old Morass. She liked to watch the rituals the witches did in the swamp. Quickly becomes best friends with Pi and Mrs Holdsworth. -> Shadow Chestnut: Claymore mountains, hidden. He was tasked with keeping an eye on the Claymores- they have been serving evil for a long time. -> Aspen King: Lone Star canyon. Yellow-golden leaves, huge tree. Likes the Lone Star Cowboys, who bring gifts (anything from horseshoes to elk skulls). 

The New Fast Travel System: -> Advantage of using the trees: you pay for the trailer rides, but you use the tree portals for free. -> With all 4 big areas unlocked, you will need to cover great distances. You have a lot of choices: 1, Trailers (costs money, but most accurate, quickest) 2, Tree portals (free, but less accurate, takes a bit of time) 3, Pandoria portal in-between shortcuts (free, jumps great distances, but least accurate). -> Trailer rides now cost more money the farther the distance you go. Prices: 25 JS:  if you travel inside a great area (e.g. staying inside Harvestlands). 50 JS: if you travel to another great area next to you (e.g. from Harvestlands to Winterdale) 75 JS: travel to another area second next to you (e.g. from Harvestlands to Springvalley) 100 JS: travel to third next area (e.g. from Harvestlands to Summerplains) -> [Keep it in mind, that by our game design the JS cap has been raised to 100.000 and you earn more money, via reworked quest rewards.]

#sso #starstableonline #star stable #star stable online #ssoblr #sso rewritten #sso full story series #sso map #sso life warden #sso tree #sso magic #sso aideen #sso game design

[diamondcrownacademy]

DCA Info Part 7: Magic Rings and Gem Colors

The art used is from this post from August 4th 2020

Magic Rings

For Diamond Crown Academy, the students use rings to conjure magic instead of the pens the students of Night Raven College use. Students wear a magic ring on their of choice hand on their index/pointer finger (As wearing a ring on a pointer means leadership, confidence and authority) and the girls have to trace a sigil or sign in the air to cast strong spells, small spells just require pointing. Phoenix jokingly stated that the rings symbolize the happy endings that the OG princesses (with the exception of Alice) got with their princes. The students get to make their own choices and reap the rewards of their efforts, kind of symbolism. The design of the rings are gold with a simple round gem on it following the color gems on the student's dorms.

Gem Colors

Each stained glass portrait of the heroines are placed in the hallway of the main college building, lining the hallway with a plaque at the bottom describing the virtue they represented. The students of DCA follow their example to become a true princess. The 10 dorms are built on their image and like the gemstones that you see on the uniforms of the Night Raven College and Royal Sword Academy students.

The gem colors and virtues are shown below, with my personal theories on why the colors and virtues were chosen.

Snow White, Cinderella and Aurora

🍎 Pommeneige

The color of the gemstone on the brooch worn by students affiliated with the Pommeneige dorm is red, which matches the color of Snow White's hair ribbon, the red cloth on her puff sleeves and the interior of her cape. Red was also the color the poison apple took the appearance of in order to trick Snow White into eating it. Snow White represented the virtue of innocence. In this case, kindness and a bit of naivety. Snow White was known for being kind but also naïve, which made her fall for Queen Grimhilde's trap easily.

👠 Glastanzerin

The color of the gemstone on the brooch worn by students affiliated with the Glastanzerin dorm is white, which matches the color of Cinderella's iconic gown in the original 1950 film, which was a silver white in color. Cinderella represented the virtue of hope, always know to keep being hopeful. This feeling of hope can be shown in "A Dream Is a Wish Your Heart Makes" where she encourages her animal friends to never stop dreaming and the entire theme of the song which carries out throughout the film is to keeping believing in your dreams.

🌹 Rosadormienti

The color of the gemstone on the brooch worn by students affiliated with the Rosadormienti dorm is pink, which matches the color of Aurora's dress that is mostly used for merchandise. Aurora represented the virtue of determination, never lose the drive to reach your dreams. While Aurora herself doesn't show signs of determination in her debut film, this is shown in later media.

Ariel, Belle, and Jasmine

🐚 Coquille

The color of the gemstone on the brooch worn by students affiliated with the Coquille dorm is purple, which matches the color of Ariel's seashell bikini top. Ariel represented the virtue of freedom, never forgetting that you can't be bound by anyone. Ariel herself desired freedom from her overprotective father and this is expressed by her fascination with humans and their world.

📚 Chateau Beastiale

The color of the gemstone on the brooch worn by students affiliated with the Chateau Beastiale dorm is yellow, which matches the color of Belle's iconic golden ball gown. Belle represented the virtue of loyalty and intelligence, standing by someone's side and never forgetting that knowledge is sharper than any sword. Belle stayed by the Beast's side and helped him to better himself. Belle was also famous for her intelligence.

🏝️ Magiaoasis

The color of the gemstone on the brooch worn by students affiliated with the Magiaoasis dorm is blue, which matches the color of Jasmine's sky blue casuals (although in later media and merchandise, it's colored turquoise). Jasmine represented the virtue of wittiness, using your wits to your advantage and to solve problems. Jasmine is shown to use her seductive cunning to her advantage. An example of this occurred when she faked being under the genie's influence in order to distract Jafar.

Mulan, Pocahontas and Tiana

🐲 Dragonstone

The color of the gemstone on the brooch worn by students affiliated with the Dragonstone dorm is dark red, which matches the details on the outfit Mulan wore during the climax of the original 1998 film. Mulan represented the virtue of honor and bravery, finding the courage to stand up against your fears and insecurities. Mulan disguised herself as a man to take her father's place in the war and she wanted to stay true to herself, all while bringing honor to her family.

🍂 Sagamore

The color of the gemstone on the brooch worn by students affiliated with the Sagamore dorm is orange, which is a very earthy color and Pocahontas herself has a fondness for nature. Pocahontas represented the virtue of will and wisdom, learn from others as how they learn from you. Pocahontas expressed wisdom and offered kindness and guidance to those around her.

🐸 Lagniappe

The color of the gemstone on the brooch worn by students affiliated with the Lagniappe dorm is green, matching the color of Tiana's frog form and her initial wedding dress. Tiana represented the virtue of diligence, hard work goes a long way. Tiana herself was known to be a hard worker and hoped that this would lead her to opening her own restaurant.

Alice

🐰 Futterwacken

Alice is a special case, she represents young girls growing up finding their identity. And being true to yourself is a golden lesson in the academy so that's why her stained glass is kept near the Futterwacken Dormitory built on the hill overlooking the other dormitories. This gem doesn't appear on the Futterwacken brooches because instead of brooches, they have keys of various colors.

#DCA info #general information #diamond crown academy

[magicisinbooks]

The Ballad of Never After - Excerpt

Author: Stephanie Garber

1

There is a door deep inside the royal library of Wolf Hall that no one has opened for centuries. People have tried to set it on fire, break it with axes, and pick its lock with magic keys. But no one has so much as left a scratch on this stubborn door. Some say it mocks them. There is a wolf’s head wearing a crown emblazoned on the door’s wooden center, and people have sworn the wolf smirks at their failed attempts, or bares its sharp teeth if a person even comes close to opening this unopenable door.

Evangeline Fox had once tried. She had pulled and tugged and twisted the iron knob, but the door would not budge. Not then. Not before. But she hoped it would be different now.

Evangeline was very good at hoping.

She was also rather good at opening doors. With one drop of her willing blood, she could undo any lock.

First, she needed to be sure she wasn’t being watched or followed or stalked by that deceitful, apple-eating scoundrel whose name she wouldn’t even think.

Evangeline checked behind her shoulder. Her lantern’s ocher glow chased the nearby shadows away, but the bulk of Wolf Hall’s royal library stacks were nebulous with night.

She fidgeted nervously, and the lantern flickered. Evangeline had never been afraid of the dark before. Dark was for stars and dreams and the magic that took place in between days. Before losing her parents, she had constellation-watched with her father and listened to her mother tell stories by candlelight. And Evangeline had never been frightened.

But it wasn’t actually the dark or the night that she feared. It was the spider-thin prickle crawling across her shoulder blades. It had been with her since the moment she’d stepped out of her royal suite on a mission to unlock this door, in the hopes it would lead her to a cure that would save her husband, Apollo.

The uncanny sensation was so subtle, at first she let herself think it was merely paranoia.

She wasn’t being followed.

She’d heard no steps.

Until …

Evangeline peered into the library’s dark, and a pair of inhuman eyes stared back. Silver blue and brilliant and broken-star bright. She imagined they shone just to taunt her. But Evangeline knew that even if they sparkled now, even if these eyes lit up the dark and tempted her to lower her light, she couldn’t trust them. And she couldn’t trust him.

Jacks. She tried not to think his name, but it was impossible not to as she watched him saunter out of the dim, indolent yet confident and handsome as ever. He moved as if the night should have been afraid of him.

The tingling of her shoulder blades slid over her arms, an unsettling caress that went down to her one remaining broken heart scar. The wound stung, then throbbed, as if Jacks had sunk his teeth into it again.

Evangeline clutched her lantern like a sword.

“Go away, Jacks.” It had only been two days since she’d had the guards remove him, and she’d hoped he would have stayed away longer—forever would have been ideal. “I know what you did, and I don’t want to see you.”

Jacks shoved his hands into the pockets of his trousers. His smoke-gray shirt was loosely tucked in, with sleeves shoved up lean arms and buttons missing at the throat. With his tousled hair now golden instead of seductive midnight blue, he looked more reckless stableboy than calculating Fate. But Evangeline knew she could never let herself forget what Jacks truly was. He was obsessive and driven and entirely without morals or conscience.

The stories said his kiss was deadly to all except his one true love, and as he’d searched for her, he’d left a trail of corpses. Evangeline had once been naive enough to believe that meant the Prince of Hearts understood heartbreak because his heart had broken over and over as he looked for love. But now it was crystal clear—he was the one who did the breaking, because he didn’t know how to love.

Jacks spoke softly. “I understand if you’re upset—”

“If,” Evangeline cut in. “You poisoned my husband!”

Jacks lifted his shoulders in an insouciant shrug. “I didn’t kill him.”

“That’s not something you earn points for.” She fought to keep her voice from cracking.

Until then, Evangeline hadn’t realized that a part of her still held on to a sliver of hope that Jacks was innocent. But he wasn’t even trying to deny it. He didn’t care that Apollo was little more than a corpse, just as he hadn’t cared when Evangeline had been turned to stone.

“You need to stop holding me to human standards,” Jacks drawled. “I’m a Fate.”

“That’s exactly why I don’t want to see you. Since I met you, my first love was turned to stone, I was turned to stone, then I was turned into a fugitive, multiple people have tried to murder me, and you poisoned my husband—”

“You already said that one.”

Evangeline glowered.

Jacks sighed and leaned against a nearby bookshelf as if her feelings were the emotional equivalent of a sneeze—something to be gotten over quickly, or avoided simply by stepping out of the way. “I’m not going to apologize for being what I am. And you’re conveniently forgetting that before we met, you were a sad orphan with a broken heart and a wicked stepsister. After I stepped in, you became the sweetheart savior of Valenda, married a prince, and became a princess.”

“Those things only happened because they served your twisted interests.” Evangeline seethed. Everything he’d done for her was just so that he could use her to open the Valory Arch. “Children treat their toys better than you’ve treated me.”

Jacks’s eyes narrowed. “Then why didn’t you stab me, Little Fox? The other night in the crypt, I threw you a dagger, and I was close enough for you to use it.” His gaze sparked with fresh amusement as it lowered to her neck. To the exact place his mouth had lingered three nights ago.

She blushed at the unwanted memory of his teeth and tongue on her skin. He’d been infected with vampire venom, and she’d been infected with stupidity.

She’d stayed with him that night to keep him occupied so he wouldn’t feed on human blood and become a vampire himself. He hadn’t, but he’d fed on her sympathy instead. Jacks had told her the story of the girl who’d made his heart beat again—Princess Donatella. She was supposed to be his one true love, but instead of filling that role, Princess Donatella had chosen another and stabbed Jacks in the chest.

After hearing that story, Evangeline had started to see Jacks as the sympathetic Prince of Hearts that she had first gone to for help. But Jacks was all broken without any heart. And she needed to stop hoping that he could be more.

“I made a mistake that night in the crypt.” Evangeline banished the blush from her cheeks and looked straight into Jacks’s inhuman eyes. “But give me another chance and I won’t hesitate to stab you.”

He smirked, flashing dimples he didn’t deserve. “I’m almost tempted to test that claim. But you’ll have to do more than wound me if you wish to get rid of me.” Jacks pulled an intensely white apple from his pocket and started tossing it. “If you really want me out of your life forever, help me find the missing stones and open the Valory Arch. Then I promise you’ll never see me again.”

“As much as I’d love that, I’m never going to open that arch for you.”

“What about for Apollo?”

Evangeline felt a sharp stab of pain for the prince and another flare of anger for Jacks. “Don’t you dare say his name.”

Jacks grinned wider, looking oddly pleased by her anger. “If you agree to help me, I’ll wake him from his suspended state.”

“If you actually believe I would do that, you’re delusional.” Her first bargain with Jacks was the start of this entire mess. There would be no more deals with him, no more partnerships, no more anything. “I don’t need you to save Apollo. I’ve found another way.” Evangeline lifted her chin toward the sealed library door. It was still half-covered in shadow, but she swore the crowned wolf’s head grinned as if it knew that she was the one who’d finally open its lock.

Jacks took one look at the door and chuckled, quiet and mocking. “You think you’ll find a cure for Apollo in there?”

“I know I will.”

Jacks laughed again, darker this time, and took a cheerful bite of his apple. “Let me know when you change your mind, Little Fox.”

“I won’t change my—”

He was gone before she could finish. All that lingered was the echo of his ominous laughter.

But Evangeline refused to be nettled. She’d been told by an old librarian that this door led to every missing book and story about the Valors. Although the North’s first royal family was human, it was widely accepted that they all possessed remarkable powers. Honora Valor, first queen of the North, was said to be the greatest healer of all time. And Evangeline had very good reason to believe that among the stories on the other side of this door were tales about her healing, which hopefully included a way to bring someone back from a state of suspended sleep.

Evangeline pulled out her dagger, a jewel-hilted blade with a few missing gems. It was actually Jacks’s—the same one he’d tossed at her the night they’d spent in the crypt. He’d left it behind in the morning, and she still wasn’t sure why she’d picked it up. She didn’t want to keep it—not anymore—but she hadn’t had time to replace it yet, and it was the sharpest thing she owned.

One prick of the dagger and her blood welled red. She pressed it to the door and whispered the words “Please open.”

The lock instantly clicked. The knob easily twisted.

For the first time in centuries, the door swung open.

And Evangeline understood why Jacks had been laughing.

2

Evangeline stepped through the door, and the ground beneath her crumbled as if her slippers had found crackers instead of stones. It was rather like her hope: rapidly disintegrating.

This room was supposed to hold shelves of books on the Valors, answers to her questions, a cure for Prince Apollo. But there was only a wheeze of cloudy air, wafting in swirls around a dramatically carved marble arch.

Evangeline closed her eyes and opened them as if she could blink the arch away and the precious books would appear in its place. Sadly, Evangeline’s blinks did not contain magic.

Still, she refused to give up.

In the Meridian Empire, where she was from, this arch would have just been a decorative curve of carved rock, large enough to frame a set of doors. But this was the Magnificent North, where arches were something else entirely. Here, arches were magical portals built by the Valors.

This arch had mighty angels clad in armor carved into the columns, like warriors on opposite sides of an eternal battle. One of the angels had a bowed head and a broken wing; it looked almost sad, while the other appeared angry. Both had their swords drawn and crossed over the center, warning away anyone who might wish to enter.

But Evangeline wasn’t just anyone. And if anything, the forbidden nature of the arch made her want to look inside even more.

Maybe this arch was a gateway to the books and the cure that she needed for Apollo. If the old librarian was right about this room containing all the stories on the Valors, perhaps the angels were protecting the books from the story curse so that they would stay uncorrupted. Maybe all she needed to do was press her blood to one of their swords and they would politely step aside to let her enter.

She took another step, feeling a hopeful thrill as she pricked her finger on the dagger once again and pressed her welling blood to one of the angels’ swords.

It lit up like a candle. Glowing gold veins spiderwebbed across the stone swords, the angels, the entire arch. It was bright and light and magical. Her skin tingled as the dust on the arch floated up and sparkled all around her like tiny bursting stars. Air that had been cold was now warm. She’d known she was meant to enter this room, to find this arch, to open—

Suddenly, the breath whooshed from her lungs as the thought triggered the warning Apollo’s younger brother, Tiberius, had given her: You were meant to open it. Magic things always do that which they were created to do.

And Tiberius believed that Evangeline was created to unlock the Valory Arch.

She staggered back, hearing the memory of Jacks’s laugh again. This time it didn’t sound dark at all. It sounded amused, entertained, happy.

“No,” she whispered.

The stones still gleamed with gold threads that wove around the columns. She watched as they spread across the top, lighting up a series of curving words that had not been visible before.

Conceived in the north, and born in the south, you will know this key, because she will be crowned in rose gold.

She will be both peasant and princess, a fugitive wrongly accused, and only her willing blood will open this arch.

Evangeline’s blood ran cold.

These were not just words. This was—she didn’t even want to think it. But pretending would not erase or change anything. This was the Valory Arch prophecy, the one that Jacks had manipulated her to fulfill. Which meant that this wasn’t just another arch. This was the Valory Arch.

Panic replaced every other feeling.

It shouldn’t have been possible. The arch was supposed to be in pieces. Although there were two conflicting tales about the Valory’s magical contents, everyone had agreed about one thing: the Valory Arch had been broken into pieces and hidden across the North to keep anyone from knowing what the prophecy was and to prevent anyone from putting the arch back together.

“No, no, no, no, no…” Frantically, Evangeline tried to wipe her blood from the stones before Jacks or anyone else could discover what she’d done. The angels hadn’t changed their pose, but she feared that any second a door would appear behind them or they would move aside. She spat and scrubbed with the sleeve of her cloak. But the glowing arch didn’t dim.

“I knew you could open the door.”

The scratchy voice was too old to belong to Jacks. But the sound of it stopped Evangeline’s heart all the same.

“My apologies, Your Highness. I see I’ve frightened you again.”

“Again?” She turned.

The man in the doorway was almost as small as a child, but far older than Evangeline, with a long, silver beard that held threads of gold, which matched the burnished trim on his white robes.

“You…” For a moment she remained too nervous to form words. “You’re the librarian who first showed me the door to this room."

#tbona #the ballad of never after #evangeline fox #jacks

[flutefemme]

Fireside Touch

by Flutefemme

Hey, guys! I got a little inspiration and wrote a short thing....hehe

Link by nature wasn't typically inclined to affection. He had entered the King's service as a very young man, and had an intense training schedule as soon as he could safely swing a decent-sized weapon. Under the scrutinizing eye of his father, his childhood, preteen, and early teen years were spent outside learning all manner of weapon types, combat techniques, sparring lessons, and field experience. He would often tag along on missions with the royal knights as his father led the Hyrulean army in all manner of kingdom business. His father groomed him to be the expert knight that he was, and he never got the opportunity to practice much of anything else essential to a boy learning to be a man other than discipline, respect, and honor to the crown.

His training did not allow him to attend the village school with his peers. He was most often with his father at the castle, and had an assigned tutor for his studies so as not to interfere with his training regimen that took place on the castle grounds each day. He received a classical education as most royals would have gotten, but he did not have much of an opportunity to interact with children his age, save for the other young men his age that had entered into the young Hyrulean knight training school as he did. And he certainly had never gotten much practice talking with girls. The first time he ventured to Castletown with a group of knights on a rare day off, he had been wandering through the market, came face-to-face with a pretty red-haired girl and promptly turned every shade of red as she attempted to sell him some apples from her farm. After that experience, he tried to avoid girls at all cost to prevent showing himself to be the absolute fool he was at casual conversation.

So when he was appointed as the princess of Hyrule's personal knight (after an unfortunate incident with a guardian experiment-gone-awry where he managed to save a considerable amount of people with a mere pot lid), to say he was nervous was the biggest understatement in Hyrule's history. This was not something he could avoid. He would eventually have to talk to her.

To make matters even worse, she could barely stand the sight of him. He didn't bother talking because his mere presence elicited a rise out of her--and not a good rise. After what seemed like the thousandth time of getting yelled at, he began to grow desperate for a way to make things less excruciating for the both of them.

And then came the trip to Gerudo town. She intentionally slipped away to elude him at the Kara Kara Bazaar (she would regularly try to find reasons to "lose" him) and for the first time, he hadn't seen when she left. Frantically running around the area looking for any trace of her, he ventured further out toward the southern end and caught a glimpse of golden hair running across the sand. He had barely gotten to her in time, but managed to save her from a deadly encounter with the yiga. And for the first time, she saw him. Really saw him.

That night, as they set out their campsite for yet another trip to pray at yet another goddess statue, she had timidly asked if he would lay his bedroll next to hers as they camped out under the stars. As he cooked up several mushroom skewers, she started asking him questions about why he was so quiet, and about what it was like to be a royal knight. Tongue-tied and red-faced, he managed to carry on a decent verbal conversation with her for the first time. 

Now, nearly three months later, talking to the princess wasn't nearly as difficult as that first night. He even found himself looking forward to their chats--which were mostly her talking, but he didn't mind that at all--and ever since their Gerudo trip, he dutifully laid his bedroll next to hers (not too close), watched her while she fell asleep, and watched her while she slept. 

To say the princess was pretty would have been a gross understatement. She was incredibly beautiful, and in the glow of the firelight, her hair glimmered with an otherworldy radiance. Her perfect, porcelain skin shimmered, and her long eyelashes rested on her rosy cheeks as the sound of her rhythmic breathing accompanied the low crackle of the fire. As Link lay on his side facing her, head in hand, he smiled. This was his favorite part of the day. Watching the princess sleep. He could stare openly without feeling shame or awkwardness, and he sighed contentedly.

Zelda shifted slightly in her sleep, and a strand of hair fell into her face.

Link blinked. He waited for her to brush it back in her sleep as she typically did, but she didn't move.

His fingers twitched at his side. A warm feeling began low in his stomach and rose up to his chest. He felt the hair on the back of his neck get prickly, and he swallowed. 

Goddess, he wanted to touch her.

He propped himself up a bit more on his elbow, and leaned closer to her face. His arm moved toward the edge of his bedroll.

Time stood still. He had never touched a girl's face before, let alone the princess. But the pull was so strong. He clenched his fingers into a tight fist as he slowly lifted it off the ground. Flexing and unflexing, his hand stayed, suspended, just in front of her left cheek. Letting out a shaky sigh, his fingers tentatively moved forward, tenderly grasping the golden, glowing strand and slowly tucking it behind her ear, his fingers lingering on the soft skin of her earlobe for a moment before returning his hand to his bedroll in front of him.

He let out another shaky breath and closed his eyes. 

Goddess, she was beautiful. 

#zelink #legend of zelda #zelda #zelda botw #breath of the wild #zelda x link #age of calamity #zelda breath of the wild #the legend of zelda #botw #tloz

[eden-dum]

bestie i need u to give me an idiots summary of the iliad bc i was reading the one on spark notes & there r TOOO many words !!

BESTIEEE i’m so sorry i only just saw this. i’ll try summarize this as simply and interestingly as possible.

the story starts off in two different places: in the mortal realm and the divine realm. in the mortal world, there are a king and queen of a kingdom called Troy, who are expecting a child. shortly before the child is born, the Queen Hecuba has a nightmare—the priests interpret this dream to mean that the soon-to-be-born prince will cause the downfall of the kingdom. When he is finally born, she and King Priam decide to leave him out in the mountains to die, but he is found by a shepherd, who decides to raise him as his own son. The prince is named Paris, like the city but not actually the city. He grows up not knowing he is a prince, thinking he was always a farmer instead.

Around the same time, the gods are having a great wedding. This is going to sound a lot like the Sleeping Beauty, so just think about that. All the gods are invited to this wedding, except one—Eris, the goddess of disagreements. She shows up, angry, and throws a golden apple into the crowd, saying only the most beautiful will catch it. Problem is: three goddesses catch it. Aphrodite, Athena and Hera start fighting over the apple, so they agree they need a good judge to do the deciding for them. They choose Paris, who is famous for his honesty. Each one of them wants to win this beauty contest, so they secretly bribe Paris, who in the end chooses Aphrodite. Some things happen and Paris finds out he is actually a prince, and the royal family takes him in. Anyway, Aphrodite had bribed him with the most beautiful woman on earth as his wife, so that is what he would get.

Now, this most beautiful woman on earth is Helen, Queen of a different kingdom called Sparta. She is already married to a man named Menelaus, King of Sparta. Years ago, when she was ready to marry, many, many men wanted her hand in marriage. So many men in fact, that her father was scared they would start a war. To prevent this, he made all these men swear an oath that they would a) not do this and b) they would join their armies to protect her and Sparta in case anything happened.

Paris is sent to Sparta on a diplomatic mission, where he sees Helen and falls in love with her. Since Aphrodite had promised her to him, he takes her and they go back to Troy together. When Menelaus finds out about this, he is livid, and goes to Agamemnon, his brother, who is king of a nearby kingdom. Together, they go around to all those men that wanted to marry Helen in the first place and make them unite as Greeks to join a war against Troy.

Now that was all backstory, I’m afraid. The Iliad starts 9 years after the war begins, in the middle of a different fight.

—

Agamemnon, who is chief general of the army, is arguing with Achilles, their strongest soldier. They’re technically arguing over some war prizes that Achilles earned, but Agamemnon took, but it spirals into Achilles telling Agamemnon the war is stupid and that there is no reason Achilles should be fighting for Menelaus’ wife. Agamemnon tells Achilles that he is stupid and nobody needs him, so Achilles decides that he doesn’t want to fight anymore. He and his army step out of the war.

Many, many things happen, but the most important thing is that without Achilles, the Greeks start losing the war. Hector, crown prince of Troy and Paris’ brother, can push back the Greeks and at one point even breaks their defenses. Agamemnon gets so desperate that he sends some men to apologize to Achilles and offers him the war prizes back, but Achilles is stubborn and tells them that he has decided to leave Troy entirely (he doesn’t). Many, many Greek men have died because Achilles refuses to fight, so Achilles’ close friend/boyfriend (up to you) decides to go against Achilles’ decision and fight in the war. He is called Patroclus.

Patroclus tells Achilles this, but Achilles still refuses to join him. Instead, Achilles gives Patroclus his own armor to wear, so the Trojans will think that it’s not Patroclus fighting, but Achilles, and run away. He also tells him to not go further than a certain point in his attack. The plan works, and most of the Trojans run away when they see “Achilles” (who is actually Patroclus). But Hector stays, desperate to kill Achilles, who has killed so many of Hector’s soldiers.

Patroclus, confident that he can continue to defeat the Trojans, goes further than the point that Achilles had told him to stop at. Even worse, Achilles’ armor, which doesn’t fit him (since it’s not his), falls off Patroclus and he is completely vulnerable. Hector takes the opportunity and immediately kills Patroclus.

When Achilles finds out that his closest companion was killed by Hector, he goes batshit crazy. He wears different armor and finally goes back into battle (much to Agamemnon’s relief). He slaughters everyone in his way until he finally reaches Hector. After a long chase, Achilles catches up with Hector and kills him. He keeps the corpse for three days and absolutely destroys it, until Hector’s father (King Priam, from the very beginning) literally begs him to give it back, which Achilles does.

—

The Iliad ends about here, but the war continues for another year. In this year, Achilles is killed by Paris. Paris is killed by some guy. Odysseus, a smart Greek guy I didn’t introduce, comes up with a strategy to win the war once and for all. He has the army build a large wooden horse, which they will present to the Trojans as a peace treaty. The twist here is that the horse is empty in the inside, with enough room to fit many, many Greek soldiers. The Trojans see the horse, are happy that the Greeks supposedly gave up and bring it into their city.

At night, while everyone is sleeping, the Greeks inside the Horse sneak out and open the gates for their fellow soldiers. Together they start killing people from the inside of the city and win the war.

That’s the story of the Trojan War finished… there are many details and characters and such that I left out that you might want to research on your own, and also the entire Odyssey, which is basically a continuation of the story from Odysseus’ point of view (it’s about his long journey back home). If you’d like, you can start reading my fics now! The update I told you about is out now :D

#i hope this is understandable and interesting #i would hate if this dissuaded you from being an iliad fangirlie lol #enjoy<33

[theroyalsims]

ROYALS MARK INTERNATIONAL DAY OF THE DOG WITH BRAND NEW PHOTOS

Today’s the International Day of the Dog and the Brindleton Royal Family decided to jump in on the fun and mark the pup-tastic occasion with two brand new photos!

The Royal Family shared two new adorable snaps via their official social media pages. The photos were captioned:

“Today, we celebrate the International Day of the Dog. Ever our loyal friends and companions, our beloved dogs - big and small - truly make our homes and families happier.”

The first photo shows The Queen and Prince Jacques posing with their two dogs, Luna and Apple. Luna, a pure bred Dobermann, descends from a long line of Dobermanns first brought into the Palace by King Frederik, The Queen’s grandfather. Apple, meanwhile is the newest member of the Royal Family. The little cross-breed lap dog was adopted by The Queen just last year from a local shelter.

The second picture is that of the Crown Princess and her ever-popular pup, Nougat. The shot was taken on the grounds of Agneau House, Her Royal Highness’ official residence in the city. Nougat, a Golden Retriever, made headlines some years ago after he accidentally ingested some nuts - which were sadly toxic to dogs. Thankfully, he was rescued just in time. The Crown Princess and Nougat are reportedly “regulars” at the dog park near her home. 

Happy International Dog Day to all fur babies and fur parents out there! Make sure to give your pups some extra love and belly rubs on their special day!

#ts4 #theroyalsims #ts4 story #ts4 legacy #simblr #ts4 royals #ts4 royalty #ts4 royal family #ts4 royal legacy #ts4 royal #anya #emilia #jacques #mystory

[smashingsire]

Summer Vacation at Delfino Square

@ladyofdelfino

It’s been quite the while since the King of Dream Land had time to himself, after stuffing himself silly from the adventure in a certain buffet. While he had his own turn to challenge Kirby for the sake of not looking outmatched, as stupid as that sounded, the King needed a rest. The month of May was practically here and summer was starting to sneak its way into the Star. Already, the atmosphere began to ache its way in the warmer side and the apples of Whispy Woods were becoming riper than ever.

Dedede knew, since he was on great terms with a tree.

But, where to go? He knew there was more to exploring other Stars, or a simple trip down his own private resort. What the King needed was another land to chill out and probably exploit his name in the meantime. However, upon looking through a brochure, he found an advertisement relating to a place called Isle Delfino. “Friendly faces,… cleaned up after their paint incident,… GOOD FOOD?!”

It wasn’t that long until a large ship, navy-coated with emblems on the sides, sailed down across the ocean, halting by the pier. However, due to its entrance, fireworks immediately erupted from its funnels spelling out “DDD” in flashing blue letters! What a way to introduce one’s self! Upon stopping, out came the royal visitor; a portly young man stepped right out of the lowered ramp, putting on a summery outfit rather than his normal garb. Instead of sneakers were sandals and he had a giant red kimono to replicate his robe, while he kept the golden crown across a knotty and navy bunch of locks.

While a multitude of orange minions came down, the visitor took a while to take in his surroundings, strongly inhaling the atmosphere through his nostrils. “So, this here’s Island Dede-Delfino?”

#ladyofdelfino #//starter for you~\\

[glazedwriter-mystery0014]

✨Popularity AU✨ Cordelia van der Crystalvale AKA..... The Crystal Queen~

👑The Crystal Queen👑

"Cordelia van der Crystalvale, the 16 y/o megastar, leading light, big shot & hotshot, and multimillionaire of "Empire of The Diamond Isles" with moneybags and deep pocket!"

"She's the most beloved singers at one of her numerous popular taverns, saloons, bakeshops, confectionaries, and inns as their aunt gives her of their inn-businesses and larger companies, and includes "The Crazy Bee Inn"."

"She is Bisexual & Demigirl, and pronouns She/Her & They/Them."

"Cinnamon roll & total sweetheart."

"Cordelia is a successful girl and wealthy young woman who is as sweet as sugar and nice as a slice of apple pie."

"Adopted daughter of "Crowned Queen Lilith Darkthorn" & "Grand King/Chief Kim Tumblejewel", and the biological daughter of "Crowned Empress Ianna Diamondlight" & "Chief Kaikoa Thunderblossom"."

"They're good-natured, very charmastic lady, decent, and bountiful stardom who is the sweet & pampered heiress and household name of her two very successful and good-hearted families, their biological family own giant cities and big towns they've governed as for her beloved adopted tribe owns numerous colossal wealth and considerable prosperous countries as they've considerable mines of wealth and treasure troves."

"Owns and the chief manager/top-selling baker & pastry chef/skilled candy maker of gigantic top-selling bakeshop/full restaurant & two saloons "Sweet Cheeks" & "The Sparkling Bunny Inn". She's always selling her renowned and well-known desserts/baked goods in her bakeshop! All of the groups of populations called her "Sweety Cakes"/or "Lil' Sugar Baby" when they're buying one of her top-selling baked goods and well-known sweets."

"Have personal strong and powerful royal bodyguards/assassins otherwise known as "Soleil" & "Souline". Both of them are respected her very dearly."

Soleil: French for “sun,” it’s a shimmering summer baby girl name with a major warm-weather feeling. Solly and Leila or Leilie are adorable nickname options here. 

Souline: Similar to many of the sunny summer names on this list in origin, but absolutely unique sounding, this Spanish/Latin moniker meaning “sunlight” is a contender for best rare summer girl name. 

"From Empire of The Diamond Isles, she's inhabited in "The Diamond Springs Estate" in "Sanctuary of the Olympian Heavens"."

"Not only, she is top popstar but she's also a famous YouTuber celebrity, and a prima donna who've a compassionate attitude in her and a person who's a lover of celebrity life adores of her cherished fans and adored followers as they call her "The Crystal Queen" as everyone respects them and adores her with big loves and great affections expects for one of her arch-rivals, "Coral Beautywort"."  

"Always charge of all the festivals, big holidays, great feasts and celebrations in her islands includes music festivals, big baking sales & county fairs, and carnivals as well as she's following her beloved aunt's footsteps."

"When she's in the bottom of the sea, she's formed into a gorgeous mermaid and powerful siren just like her biological father's side of his family as she's also ruled "The Golden Reef City" and "The Crystal Deeps" & "The Harmonious Depths"."

Popularity Au 🩰🪷🩰🪷🩰 Belongs to @galawolftrollna34/@galaxy12sblog

Cordelia van der Crystalvale Belongs to @gloomycherub-mysterious/@sullenwriter-log/@glazedwriter-mystery0014

These pictures are belongs to Google/Pinterest

#popularity au #trolls #trolls dreamworks #dreamworks trolls #trolls fandom #trolls au #trollstopia #trolls oc #trolls official characters #trolls ocs #trolls offical characters #pop trolls #high school au #my oc #my ocs #my ocs are my children #my oc babies #my ocs are my babies #my oc stuff #my oc stuffs #my stuff #my stuffs #my trolls #popularity au 🩰🪷🩰🪷🩰 #the clan of the mertrolls and the mermaids