Nothing But Regrets @kingofhollowearth - Tumblr Blog

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Alright y’all, the time has finally come! This blog is going dormant and the new multi-muse blog is finally ready! *Celebration plays in the background*

Because this message is long (and I know some of y’all’s dashes are about to get flooded) everything else will be under the ‘Read More.’ ^_^

#ooc #Moving Day is at Hand

femmepathy

#So perfect!#Thank you for sharing ivakir! :D

The Last of Us ~ Sindri/Oberon

changingthelights:

“I’m… I’m fine,” Sindri tried to respond confidently, but it was almost disorienting, having someone care about how he felt. It made it hard for him to be sure of anything at this point, but he was starting to believe one thing. This didn’t feel like an illusion.

The part of him that had helped him survive for so long still tried to warn him that this could still be a trick, not matter how he felt now, and not to get his hopes up. He would just be disappointed in the end, and that would be more crushing that just doubting every kind gesture. He had to keep preparing himself for the inevitable hurt that would come- that was easier, safer-

The other part of him, a part of Sindri that felt distant and unfamiliar, had hope. Those kind eyes, Oberon’s eyes… were soft, and warm. They were inviting, but without pressure or expectations. Anabelle’s had a similar feel for Sindri, as if she had tried to appeal to the part of Sindri that would be so easy to spook with the slightest wrong push. Anabelle let Sindri approach her at his own pace, drawing closer, little by little, however he needed. Oberon felt similar… and yet completely different. Sindri didn’t know why, but he knew it was different. He felt… pulled towards Oberon, there was a draw there… a tug he wasn’t sure he wanted to, or could, acknowledge at this point.

“If your home is the only place I’ll be safe from…” the bitterness was obvious in Sindri’s tone as he spoke barely above a whisper, as if he almost didn’t want Oberon to hear, “…him, I can’t imagine leaving.” His golden eyes returned to staring at his bare toes curling into the grass. Only when Oberon agreed to take him to see the trees did his golden gaze return, as his head snapped up to stare at Oberon with wide-eyed disbelief. Just like that? He was going to see trees?

Sindri was too caught up in the swell of emotions rising in his chest to notice the small change cross over Oberon’s expression when their eyes met.

“T-teleportation is fine…” he said, but, despite how quickly he answered, it was obvious he was was unsure. “I don’t think I’ve traveled with it before, but I don’t mind trying it if.. if that means we get there faster.” Now that there was the promise of seeing trees for the first time in years, Sindri felt something in him, something long dormant and wild, itching to be set free. Suddenly he wanted to see trees so badly it hurt, and Sindri had to struggle to keep his breath even as this something buzzed with anticipation.

Golden eyes searched Oberon’s, and he took a small step closer. A tiny display of trust, of hope.

Was he fine? Or was that what he thought Oberon wanted to hear? The fae didn’t press, but he promised himself he’d do his best to keep a more watchful eye on his new charge.

Oberon’s heart ached at the bitterness he heard in Sindri’s voice. “It is the only place right now. However, there are other safe houses that could be properly warded, given time. We have quite an intricate network all over the world. My home was chosen because…” and here he hesitated, choosing his next words carefully. “Your former Master and I… have a long history.” The Fae felt his fists clenching and tried to relax. His anger and pain would do Sindri no good. “My house has been warded specifically against him and his ilk for many decades now.” A quick beat as Oberon let out a calming breath. “However, I do not want you to ever feel trapped here. We will do all we can to help you feel free again. No matter how long it takes.”

He grinned with encouragement when the younger man agreed to being teleported (albeit with obvious hesitation.) “Then allow me to be the first to help you experience it,” Oberon replied, his voice gentle. “There will be a bit of a tingly feeling as we shift through the æther - rather pleasant, I’ve always thought - a bit like warm sun on cool skin.” He held both hands out to Sindri, palms up. “Take my hands and before you can blink, we will be in my forests.” Then, he added, “Your forests, now, too… for as long as you like.” Technically, they were the Queen’s forests. But she had graciously allowed Oberon dominion over them for as long as he wished to carry the responsibility, and nothing made him happier than the notion of allowing Sindri to claim ownership of them, as well.

#changingthelights #The Last of Us #SteamFantasy!AU #// You're more than welcome to have the teleportation process take place in your reply.#I wanted to leave the choice of taking Oberon's hands up to Sindri. :)

Gone to the Forest ~ Kurt/Oberon

thebamfblueelf:

Kurt paused, biting his lip as he looked to the man. Oberon was so sweet. Too good for him in some respects. He didnt want to spiral down that negative thought train though already having derailed it earlier.

“It is nothing, mein shatzi.” He breathed out going to finish the last bit if the cleaning feeding the wild Bamfs along the way as he did so. “Just thinking of my friends. They tease me as they have not met you. Then my sister and closer friends tease on when we will get married since I am..” he hummed and turned smiling being a bit dramatic for fun. Hand on his forehead he cluched his chest as he spoke. “As I am running away to the woods with some mysterious older mann who they have never met but I am so madly in love with I am throwing away mein old life.” To which he snorted and laughed warmly shaking his head hand up and smoothing hair back from his face. “More like I am actually going to retire und spend time living a life I want with a person I want. Bit ach people are dramatic.” He smiled to Oberon at that shrugging as he hopped up to sit on the counter watching the fae.

He watched his lover closely as Kurt first began to speak of his friends, trying to see and understand more than just the words. He could see how their relationship as it was might seem odd (or even troubling) to Kurt’s friends. Truthfully, as happy as the other made him, some part of the Fae had always assumed Kurt would eventually move forward with his own life and leave Oberon behind. The king had seen himself as little more than a hindrance to the life Kurt deserved.

Now, all of those assumptions had been turned on their heads (and some part of him breathed easier knowing he was what Kurt wanted.) Oberon chuckled as the mutant mimicked his friends’ concerns, watching the melodramatic posturing with amusement. Both brows shot up at the mention of marriage. Marriage…? Was that something Kurt wanted? With him? Knowing what he knew now, the notion seemed far less unlikely. Kurt wanted to stay here with him - permanently. But he shouldn’t just assume, should he? Moving over to where Kurt sat on the counter, the Fae stood in front of him and reached out to gently cup his jaw, brushing a thumb across one cheek. “It has been a very long time since I was called ‘husband,’ but I would welcome the name from your lips… if that is what you wish?”

For the first time in awhile, Oberon found himself longing for Hollow Earth so he could take Kurt there and make this offer properly. He knew the perfect place - an open domed temple where all four seasons converged. It was a sight to behold. He could, of course, summon up the illusion of it… but he knew it wouldn’t feel the same. Perhaps one day he’d find a way, but for now all that really mattered was Kurt’s answer.

#thebamfblueelf #Gone to the Forest

Like the Wind ~ Sindri/Oberon

@changingthelights

Oberon didn’t often stop to think about the series of events that had led him to The Oracle… and a captain who often had more balls than sense. But sometimes, despite all the centuries that had passed since, memory would rear its ugly head and the former king would spend a few moments recalling the life good ol’ Will had so maliciously immortalized. Scorning a writer’s protestations of love had been the worst decision he’d ever made. Then again, he’d been rather shallow and foolish in those days… so perhaps his role in Will’s play was properly deserved. Times - despite what the play would have people believe - had been good. He’d had Robin… and Titania… and their games together had brought joy to his life. But all good things ended. Wasn’t that what humans said? Mages had raided his lands - killing anyone they couldn’t kidnap. Oberon himself had been left for dead…

His thoughts drifted for awhile longer before the Fae pulled himself back to the present. He had a new life now. A new purpose. He helped save the lives of captured Supernaturals… atonement for the lives he’d been unable to save so long ago. Their work was both noble and worthy, but sometimes the Fae longed for dry land… for the swaying limbs of a mighty tree as he drifted in soft slumber.

And sometimes, he longed for his library, One of these days he would discover the right spell to link the ship to his cherished collection, but until then he had to find other ways to make do. A few specially chosen titles graced the small shelf in his cabin, but Oberon often used his shore leave to visit the local library.

The Oracle had several ports they frequented, but there was one they used regularly. Ty had connections there. Whenever they took down a ship and found themselves with a group of scared, confused Supernaturals, the bustling port-side town of Far Haven was where they docked. Then, while Ty dealt with getting everyone safely on their way home, the crew was allowed four or five days of rest and relaxation.

Far Haven’s library was… quaint. Oberon was fairly certain it had once been someone’s home, but that only gave the library a coziness the former king rather enjoyed. The book selection was a little too heavy on the nautical titles… but he still found tomes that kept his attention.

And then, one day, he found more.

Oberon couldn’t remember the last time someone had caught his interest. Not like… /that/. The idea that there might be anyone else beyond Titania or Robin had, quite honestly, never occurred to him. After their deaths, he’d been resigned to the idea of a solitary life… but suddenly he found himself uncertain. At first, he’d ignored the feeling. Oberon told himself it was because this man reminded him of those he’d lost. There was Robin’s playful smile… and Titania’s graceful walk. Yes - that’s all it was… his mind making connections. But the laugh belonged to no one he’d ever known. Until now.

Denial came next. There was no way he could be feeling these things and the best way to rid himself of such notions was to get to know the other. Yes - that would dispel his illusions. Only... the opposite happened instead. Sindri (for he’d finally learned the other’s name) resonated with him. When they talked there was interest and respect and a mutual sharing of ideals and ideas. The feeling was one Oberon hadn’t even realized how much he missed.

When he asked if Sindri would mind continuing their conversation at a local coffee parlor, it wasn’t to disprove his feelings. It was because the Fae didn’t want their time together to end. And when the younger man presented him with a book Oberon had mentioned wanting to acquire, the Fae knew he needed to stop beating around the bush and do something about what he was feeling. Connections like this were rare - as he knew all too well. If he kept ignoring it, he was going to lose it.

So, the next time they arrived in Far Haven, Oberon headed for the library, preparing his speech in his head as he went. He was going to invite Sindri out on an actual date… and hope that he wasn’t the only one who felt the connection between them. But when he arrived at the library, Sindri wasn’t there. Not entirely unusual. He knew the other worked and had outside obligations. So the Fae waited until closing. Then he returned the next day and waited until closing again. Worry wriggled its way into his heart. Something didn’t feel right.

For the rest of his leave, Oberon tried to track Sindri down with little success. He knew he couldn’t ask Ty to extend their stay, but the idea of leaving port without finding the other man felt wrong. Perhaps the ship could do without him this trip…? He needed to talk to the captain.

He’d barely set foot on board when someone called out that Ty wanted to see him. All the better, he supposed. Rapping his knuckles on the captain’s door, Oberon waited for, ‘Enter!’ before lifting the handle and joining the other man.. Inside the cabin Oberon saw his captain talking to someone he recognized - a dock worker who often slipped them information about potential slaver ships. His heart sank. He couldn’t stay landside - not if they were heading out after a ship.

Ty’s expression was an odd mixture of seriousness and curiosity as he spoke. “Our friend here tells me you’ve been looking for someone… a pretty young man who works for the city guard?”

The fae felt the flush rise to his cheeks. Ty often teased him about his lack of interest in others, and he knew he’d probably never hear the end of it now. Still… this was Sindri, and if this man had information…! “I have,” he replied, looking to their informant. “Have you heard something… seen something? It’s as if he vanished from the city without a trace and no one seems to care.” The despair was building, barely kept out of his voice as he spoke. Things weren’t supposed to end this soon… and not like this. Please, not like this.

“Saw it with me own eyes, I did. Dead a’ night - carryin’ him inta tha bowels a’ tha Phantom’s Wake. He was puttin’ up quite a fight… but it weren’t enough. Ship left port ‘bout a week ago… manifest said it were headed for tha ‘merican colonies.”

Oberon looked to his captain with urgent pleading, but before he could speak, Ty had tossed the informant a bag of gold coins and opened the door to show him out. He gave the Fae a knowing smirk. “I’d wondered about your shore leave here… always coming back to the ship with that odd look on your face.” He laughed, but it wasn’t mocking, and smacked Oberon’s shoulder in amusement. “Glad you finally found someone worthy of your time. Now, let’s get him back, shall we? Go tell Gail she needs to send her owl out - get everyone back to the ship. I’ll make sure we’re ready to sail within the hour.”

The next few days flew by in Oberon’s mind. As promised, Gail’s feathered companion, Dresden, managed to summon everyone back in record time. They were underway and (hopefully) following the same route the Phantom's Wake had taken a week before. The ocean was big… and there were many ways to get to the Colonies, but most captains of ships like this one thought alike in terms of navigation - they took routes less traveled - and it made them easier to find when you knew to look.

He was roused from fitful sleep by Adrik knocking on his door… informing him a ship had finally been spotted. Using lingering darkness and early-morning fog as a cloak, they sailed as close as they dared… and when the first rays of dawn revealed them, they attacked. Slavers didn’t get spared. Most of them knew exactly what kind of ship they worked for. Most of them chose this life. Their begging and bargaining went unheeded. The main deck was slippery with blood by the time they opened up the hold to reveal the living cargo below. It was a small group, and Oberon shot down the ladder, saber still drawn, scanning the caged and shackled people.

At first he didn’t even recognize the other man… strung up in a cage, and… By Gaea’s Light! Were those wings?! He’d always sensed magic in Sindri, but hadn’t felt comfortable bringing up the topic. The most common wings creatures were angels… but Sindri’s magic had always felt more wild… more like Oberon’s own. Sheathing his word, the Fae used magic to break the cage’s lock, and then the shackles which bound the other - who’d obviously been drugged with something powerful. A harness had been strapped over Sindri’s beautiful wings to keep them in place. The Fae left that on for now… worried he might do them damage if they were loose. Then, with the utmost care, he scooped the younger man into his arms and carried him out of the hold and directly to Gail’s sickbay.

Their surgeon was busy - mending injuries sustained in the fighting, but she paused in her work when she saw Oberon enter and moved to his side. Giving the man in his arms a once over, the witch looked beneath his lids and whistled softly. “This one must’ve given them a lot of trouble. They’ve drugged him up good. Put him in a hammock and I’ll let you know…”

“I’m staying,” the Fae interrupted, his expression indicating the futility of any argument she might try. Taking all the care he could manage, Oberon settled the unconscious man into a hammock and began undoing the harness… which he could now see was on so tight the feathers beneath it were being crushed. An angry frown settled on his features as he worked to remove it as gently as possible.

Gail looked between the Quartermaster and the winged man. “Fine. But if you stay, you help.”

With one last look at Sindri, Oberon nodded to the witch and rolled up his sleeves. “Where do you need me?”

~~~

Fortunately, the injuries among the crew were mostly minor, and it wasn’t long before the Fae found himself alone with Gail. She still bustled around the room - cleaning and putting things away, then she stepped over to Sindri’s side and handed Oberon a bottle whose contents shimmered and swirled with a myriad of colors. “When he wakes, have him drink this. It’s a restorative - something to get rid of the grogginess from whatever the hell they gave him and heal any minor bruises and scrapes. I’m going down to the hold’s quarters to look over our guests and then I’m going to have a well-earned nap.” She eyed the Fae with an appraising look. “You should sleep, too, though something tells me you won’t.”

“Soon,” Oberon promised her with a smile. “Once I know he’s alright…”

She sniffed, accepting his response while still making it clear she didn’t think it was best for him. “Suit yourself. I’ll be back to check on you both later.”

Oberon watched the woman leave and then turned his gaze back to Sindri. He wanted to reach out and touch the other… but was afraid to disturb him in any way. Everything felt so… tentative - like the merest breath could alter both their fates. So the former king pulled up a chair beside the hammock, settled himself down, and (for the first time in centuries) prayed to his Mother for help and guidance.

#changingthelights #Like the Wind #Pirate!AU

changingthelights:

It was surreal, watching Oberon rise from their spot on the floor and head for the doors. He didn’t try to touch Sindri, to ‘help’ him stand and push him toward the doors- he simply rose and expected Sindri to follow. Sindri had the choice of whether or not to follow, and the hippogriff found himself rising to do just that. He was drawn to this choice, to this kind man and the promise of beingoutside, he was drawn more to those than his desire to test the boundaries of this place and his situation. Those tests could be saved for later, so he followed Oberon and the promise of fresh air.

Once at the doors, Sindri’s breath caught in his throat. The beautiful expanse of gardens that stretched before him were nothing like he’d ever seen. When Oberon said garden, Sindi had pictured something similar to the upturned patch of dirt sprouting fresh vegetables beside Anabell’s home every summer- or perhaps an outdoor version of the greenhouse he’d been allowed in briefly under one of his past masters- except more grand and elegant to match the feel of Oberon’s beautiful home. He’d been right about the later half of that assumption, and as Oberon talked about the fields and forests beyond, Sindri struggled with another overwhelming rush of emotions.

This whole place was open to him - open for him to explore.

It was almost too much.

A steady breath, Sindri’s hand curled into his tunic to ground himself, and he hesitated before he followed Oberon down the stairs. On the last step Sindri hesitated again, this time he stared intently down at the grass only a few inches from his toes, as if preparing himself for something. Then he took the final step, and as his bare feet tangled with green strands,

When was the last time he’d been outside that didn’t involve transporting to a party, or a new master? When was the last time he’d been allowed to just… be anywhere that wasn’t bare floors or carpet? Why did his chest hurt so much? Why hadn’t he realized he’d felt so… disconnected?

Sindri felt tears burn at the corners of his eyes, and without thinking he dropped to his knees. He buried his fingers into the grass and the soil beneath, and the damp comfort of plant and earth curling around his hands earned a shudder from the hippogriff. He knelt there, vision blurred from tears and lost to what Oberon was saying, until some of his words managed to reach Sindri’s ears.

Golden eyes snapped up from the grass, and he hastily tried to return the dirt and grass to it’s original state. With unsteady legs Sindri rose back to his feet, brushed his hands off on his pants, and tried to ignore the small twinge of embarrassment he felt at his sudden actions.

“Apologies…” he said quietly and kept his eyes downcast. “It’s… it’s been a long time since I last…” He trailed off, suddenly at a loss for words. There were so many things he hadn’t done in ages, so many things he’d never been allowed to do as a slave…

“I have no where else to go,” he responded quickly to Oberon’s offer. As much as it helped to make him feel less trapped, it reminded him that there was no place out there that held anything of value to him. Anabell would no longer be alive, and he was almost too terrified with the concept of returning to where the house once stood to give it any thought right now. “But… thank you.”

He shrugged and took a small breath as he tried to straighten his shoulders, to stand taller than he felt. This- all of it- was making him suddenly feel very, very small.

“I….” Another choice- there were so many today that it was making his head spin. “I… I do not know how to ride a horse,” he admitted. None of his masters had bothered to teach him, and Anabell could not afford one with the meager means that they had lived. “Could… could we just go to the forest? Even the edge… I would…” he hated how uncertain his voice sounded. He hated tangible proof that Gwyn had started to get under his skin. That he’d started to break Sindri.

Sindri swallowed and steeled himself to finally looked directly at Oberon. Intense, golden eyes turned up to meet the fae king’s beside him, “I would like to see… trees.”

Oberon whirled in dismay when he heard what sounded like Sindri falling for a second time. He should’ve been paying closer attention, damn-it-all! His gaze found the hippogriff kneeling in the grass, fingers buried deep in the ground. The Fae’s mind made the connections with so much ease he felt rather obtuse for not guessing something like this might happen. Mentally, he chided himself for not being more observant.

As Sindri rose, Oberon shook his head. “There is no need to apologize to me. It is I who should be apologizing. You have doubtlessly been through more than I can possibly imagine, and here I stand treating you as if nothing could possibly be wrong.” He offered the other man a soft, sad smile. “I will try to be more cognizant in the future, but if you ever think I need a reminder, please do. I want to help, after all, not cause you more harm.”

The hippogriff’s thanks earned a smile and a nod of acknowledgement from Oberon. “For now that might be true, but perhaps in the future you will discover places that interest you more than my home does. I never want you to feel like you cannot leave if you want to.”

The king had opened his mouth to make an off-hand comment about giving Sindri riding lessons when those brilliant, golden eyes locked onto his… and for a fraction of a moment Oberon found himself trying to remember how to breathe. The sensation startled him and it was possible a look of confusion flickered briefly across his features before his face returned to a more relaxed expression. “Then trees you shall have,” he replied with a soft laugh, setting the reaction aside to look at more closely later. On a whim, he continued, “If you are not adverse to magic, I could get us there all the faster with a teleportation spell…?”

Oberon didn’t often use his magic in frivolous ways. Not anymore. Without his connection to Hollow Earth, his powers had suffered, and he preferred to save his reserves for when he truly needed them. However, finding ways to bring Sindri joy - and to earn his approval - felt more worthwhile than just about anything at the moment. Besides - they would be out in the forest; he would be able to replenish himself quickly enough, and then they could always walk back afterwards.

#changingthelight #SteamFantasy!AU #The Last of Us #// I know there's not much here to actually reply to #but I hope it works?#If not - let me know and we can chat about how I can add to it. ^_^

thebamfblueelf:

kingofhollowearth:

Oberon welcomed Kurt’s touch… the feel of the other man pressed close against him. It made his whole being feel… complete. No matter where they went or how long it took them to get there, the Fae knew that sensation would never change. He hummed softly at the feel of fingers in his hair, staring at the other man with a mixture of contentment and wonder. Even now, it amazed him how far they’d come since their unexpected meeting so long ago.

Kurt’s kiss was warm and welcome… and still managed to leave the king feeling a little lightheaded afterwards. He suspected it always would. “Mmm, yes… the future. OUR future.” Oberon’s grin grew wide as he said the words… in love with the way they rolled so easily off his tongue. “My garden is yours, beloved. I trust you to tend it well. But if you would like a space to grow plants of your choice, I am more than happy to provide. If you would like, we can go out and select a spot after breakfast? And, if you are serious about animals, I am certain that could be arranged. It would be nice, I think… Fresh eggs and milk.”

“I ate enough.” He breathed out quite done with food though he did need to clean up. No he was far more interested in keeping Oberon close and getting started on retirement. Proper good retirement. Sliding fingers into the fae’s hair he hummed gently tilting his head to nuzzle at his jaw with a soft hum, another small kiss, and he slipped away so he could go clean up the mess he had made always a neat tidy person. Though Oberon would learn living with Kurt also meant the ceiling would be cleaned regularly too. Downside of wall and ceiling walking was that meant you had more surfaces to clean. “I am I have not had such things since I was a young mann in Germany living with the Rromani circus. I would enjoy having some… bit of that again I think. Make a proper gute retirement of work life out here with you.” He smiled at the man and looked down a gentle flush on his face. His friends had teased when was the wedding since as a man of faith Kurt did believe in marriage, or at least the concept of being with one person and bound to them in a way. But he didn’t want to press or pry not thinking too much on it as he did so.

The fae didn’t press on the food… not right now. If Kurt said he’d eaten enough, then Oberon would believe him, but he couldn’t help watching the other man closely as he moved away. So much had happened… and while the king knew his lover to be a resilient man, he couldn’t help but worry about what damage Kurt’s ordeal might bring to light as time passed. However, Oberon did his best to let none of this show. It was foolish to spend time worrying about things that hadn’t happened, and might never happen. He had the man he loved back in his life; he needed to enjoy it.

“I believe there are several farms down closer to Gatlinburg. I can contact them about livestock, I think. Just tell me how many of which animals you are wanting, and I’ll see to it - once we have an area set aside for them and enclosures, of course. I like the idea of finding new ways to share old memories with you.”

He didn’t miss the sudden flush on Kurt’s cheeks, and moved closer to where he stood, cleaning things up from breakfast. “Beloved…?” And then he broke off, unsure what else to say. The flush didn’t seem to be in relation to a fever… so perhaps it was simply one of happiness? Playing on that thought, Oberon finally continued, “I want nothing but your happiness. Whatever I can do to make your life what you want it to be, simply ask. I will find a way.”

#thebamfblueelf #Gone to the Forest #// A wedding/bonding ceremony isn’t something Oberon has even thought of! XD #But he certainly wouldn’t say no when/if asked.#I’m also cool with Oberon being the one to ask #But we’ll have to figure out a way to put the thought in his head first. LOL!#Maybe this RP could partially focus on how that question comes about?#I'm game for however you'd like things to play out. ^_^

maureen2musings

…

one_becky_blue

#nature photography #trees #Midsummer Night's Queue

michaelnordeman

On the way down from Östertangen in Dalarna, Sweden.

#Sweden #nature photography #Midsummer Night's Queue

changingthelights:

The Last of Us

Instead of hitting the ground as Sindri expected, a warm, sturdy pair of arms wrapped gently around him, supporting him as his legs refuse to hold him upright. The hold wasn’t firm or forceful, but soft and foreign, a touch Sindri hadn’t felt from anyone in years.

In most cases, Sindri was an object too precious to be touched by anyone other than his master, or whoever he was offered too, and in Gwyn’s case, he made sure no one touched Sindri, including other servants, unless ordered to directly. Gelert was the only one allowed to touch him with limitations, and the touches that were allowed never felt anything close to this. Those touches were always laced with fear, be it someone else’s, or his own. He didn’t want to feel responsible for another servant being hurt, so even when offered in secret, Sindri staunchly refused. He wouldn’t risk someone getting injured or worse because they tried to help him. He always thought he was meant to bear his own pain alone.

But this… this felt… kind, and Sindri felt confident that Gwyn was incapable of kindness, even in an illusion.

Sindri watched with wide, teary eyes as he found his breath and the brothers argued, and a moment later Jareth was gone in a puff of smoke and glitter that made the hippogriff jump slightly in Oberon’s arms. Then his gaze turned to Oberon when he complained about his brother, and the flush on Oberon’s cheeks only further chased away the panic and despair gripping Sindri’s heart. Maybe…. maybe this wasn’t a trick. Gwyn wouldn’t go to such great lengths to create an illusion like this. There were too many details, and this touch… Gwyn never allowed this kind of touch.

As Oberon explained further and offered Sindri options- actual options to choose what to do next- an overwhelming swell of emotions caused his shoulders to shake, and he pressed the palms of his hands into his golden eyes to try and will them to stop.

“I-I’m sorry- I’m t-terribly sorry…” he sobbed quietly, and he buried his face into Oberon’s shoulder. His body curled towards the comfort Oberon’s arms offered, like giving in to an unconscious desire he didn’t know he had. “I- I can’t- I don’t-” He couldn’t find words. He didn’t know what he wanted, now that he had a choice. How long had it been since he’d last been allowed to choose something of consequence? To choose his own clothing had been unthinkable to Sindri until he woke 20 minutes ago, and now… he could choose what activity the two of them would do??? It was too kind, the opportunity for choice was too much!

His world was spinning again, but this time the arms around him seemed to keep him grounded, to prevent him from losing complete control. They reminded him he had to breathe. He had to calm down. He was safe. He was allowed to believe he was safe. Gwyn was cruel and merciless, this- Gwyn couldn’t creat this. He reminded himself of this, like a mantra repeating quietly in his head, but in that moment he felt his skin begin to crawl.

Sindri’s fingers curled into the front of Oberon’s clothes, and he tried to steady himself.

As his emotions subsided, Sindri’s awareness of Oberon’s touch increased. He’d been conditioned for years to see any form of touch as something negative, to the point where he rejected it himself, that even touch as harmless as this, as a hug, sent off warning signs in his mind. He couldn’t shake the uneasy feeling that something bad would start to happen if he let it linger.

With a slow, uneven breath, Sindri drew back, and he kept his eyes down cast, as if he were afraid Oberon might see right through him if their eyes met. His hands didn’t move at first, as if they were reluctant to remove himself from the contact just yet.

“I… could… could we…” another slow inhale and exhale, “could we… could we get some air? Could I… see the grounds? Then- then food?” He was suddenly painfully aware that he had no idea when he’d last eaten a meal, but the idea of being outside… of getting to feel grass between his fingers and his toes…. breathing fresh, free air. It was too enticing.

“Sshhh,” Oberon murmured softly, holding the other man with a loose, gentle grip. “It is alright. I understand. Take your time. You have plenty of that now. It belongs to you and no one else.” He continued to offer comfort until Sindri pulled away from him. Oberon stayed where he’d knelt, seeing no reason to tower over the other. Besides, even after pulling away, it took the hippogriff a bit longer to remove his hands. Not that Oberon minded. He wanted to be a comfort to the young man in whatever ways he could.

When Sindri made a choice, the Fae nodded with a smile and stood. “Of course we can. There should be plenty of daylight left for a nice, long stroll.” As he spoke, he moved over to a set of french doors which led out onto a balcony with stairs that led down to the manicured gardens beyond. Opening the doors, Oberon stepped out and gestured for the hippogriff to follow him.

“As you can see, my manicured gardens are quite extensive. They encircle the house completely. Beyond that are open fields and beyond that are my forests. Plenty for you to explore, I should think.” As he spoke, Oberon began to make his way down the stairs, assuming Sindri would follow. “You will know when you have reached the edge of my lands by a sort of golden shimmer in the air. If you ever go past that you will be beyond my magic, and my ability to protect you.” Here he hesitated. “My magic’s ability to protect you from Gwyn,” he clarified. “Within the barrier, he cannot do anything to find you. Outside of it, I can make you no promises.” Another hesitation. “Which does not mean you are a prisoner here. If you ever decide my home is no longer where you wish to be, tell me and arrangements can be made to get you somewhere else that is equally safe.”

Reaching the bottom of the stairs, the Fae gestured around them. Would you like to explore the gardens? Or move beyond them to the fields and forest? I am uncertain we could make it to the edge of my lands without horses… or a carriage. Not before dark, at least. But the choice is still yours, and horses can certainly be acquired from the stable, should you wish.”

#changingthelights #The Last of Us #SteamFantasy!AU

ivakir:

@kingofhollowearth

She was not in the best condition to take care of herself and care about how she looked, so even if she was given an old rag to cover herself, she would be happy, too. Even if the house looked safe, and Oberon didn’t look like some kind of madman (because you were never sure with people who live alone in the woods), Ivakir never ceased to be suspicious and explored the house with her eyes. True, Oberon really lived alone, you notice small details when two or more people live in a house. She couldn’t say anything about his financial situation, since she saw only this part of the house. As Ivakir understood, Oberon was hardly such a simple person, since he was not that surprised to see a witch.

“This time I was very unlucky,” Ivakir smiled weakly. She was not going to tell the details. In any case, not now, while she didn’t trust the man much, even though he saved her. Besides, she was not sure about her memory right now. She remembered who she was, but some places were still dark.

“I will never tell anyone that I saw you and was in your forest and your house.”

Secrets, she could understand it. She wondered why Oberon took care of his loneliness, but now was not the right time to ask. Moreover, this was the only thing that she could do to repay him, besides telling him stories about the world. And it’s not that she had anyone to tell. She didn’t have close people to whom she could tell where she was, and few who would agree to listen about a man living alone in the forest.

“If you don’t mind, I would like to lie down somewhere. Maybe I can tell you stories then.”

She hoped it didn’t sound too rude and brazen. Now was not the time to show her character and act like a queen. Even though she rehabilitated much faster than usual, Ivakir felt dizzy and weak. She was hungry, but at the same time thoughts of food caused bouts of nausea. There was also a strange aftertaste in her mouth. What did she eat when she was in the body of a fox?

“I-I can walk myself. Just tell me where to go,” on shaking legs and holding onto the sink behind her, the witch stood up. Since she already took too much attention from the owner of the house, she was ready to crawl to where he would say.

“Mmm…” Oberon hummed, nodding in agreement. “The Fates are fickle mistresses. Perhaps now they will see fit to offer you some respite here with me.” He visibly relaxed a little when Iv promised to tell no one of him or her time here. “Your agreement is appreciated. I prefer to have as much control as possible over those who know of myself and my life here.”

At Iv’s request, the Fae’s eyes widened with realization before his expression became one of chagrin. “Yes, of course. Please.” He gestured through the kitchen’s open exit to the large living room beyond. It was an open, two-story affair with floor-to-ceiling windows and a large fireplace. A plush couch stretched out in front of the hearth. “The couch is here, but if you would prefer an actual bed, I can also offer you the use of my guest room. It is downstairs and not a far walk, if you would prefer to sleep rather than just rest.”

#ivakir #Ever Changing Tapestry

danssesyeux

Vivien Leigh (1913-1967) and Robert Helpmann (1909-1986) as Titania and Oberon in Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream at the Old Vic Theatre (1937-1938)

#A Midsummer Night's Dream #Vivien Leigh #Robert Helpmann #Titania #Oberon #1930s #Midsummer Night's Queue

thebamfblueelf:

kingofhollowearth:

Gone to the Forest//Oberon

Kurt was listening, despite it all he heard what Oberon said. “Perhaps a journy together is what we need. Eventually. I am not one of aging nor are you.” Not in a sense that the mortals did anyway and he slowly looked over to the man he so dearly loved and managed a weak smile. Shifting his hand in the others, he moved to slide into him, face pressed into his shoulder as his eyes slowly closed. He knew the man wanted to help and while he was debating on agreeing to let the man use magic on his mind he was not to that point. Yet. “I know you are.” He breathed in slowly, and out as his arm went up around his neck and fingers up into his hair before his head tilted back and he looked up. Golden eyes on a face he so dearly loved. he only ever wanted to wake up to this man. Only ever wanted to have his company in this world. He could go a hundred years with only Oberon and be happy and content. After everything he knew that much to be true. “How about enough talk of the Hedge and the other side… And we talk of our future?” He offered up knowing that talk would be warm and welcoming. That they did have a future and they did stand a chance at having peace then as well. “Like where in the garden can I work and make my own.” He teased, a gentle chuckle leaving him as he moved to softly kiss his lover. “And perhaps may I convince you into us having goats und chickens.”

#thebamfblueelf #Gone to the Forest

changingthelights

The Last of Us

kingofhollowearth

changingthelights‌:

Golden eyes narrowed at Jareth as he revealed himself to be the one to have drugged Sindri.

“The first master who drugged me made the same mistake. He lost his eyes,” Sindri said in a tone that was far too polite to be a threat, but the smile on his lips dared Jareth to ever do it again. The embers of fury that burned in his chest suddenly cooled as it dawned on him that his usual attitude, the one meant to make everyone ‘above’ him want to return him, (or in Gwyn’s case, irritate him out of spite since he refused to return Sindri) might not be necessary. If these two were to be believed, neither of them were a 'master’…

His expression softened slightly, and he looked off to the side, his cheeks warming in embarrassment. He didn’t know what to say, or how to explain himself. “I… I don’t like being drugged,” he added, to clarify he meant it as a warning. He didn’t like it before, but after Gwyn it meant something completely different…

Sindri’s focus suddenly returned to the room around him as he felt his thoughts drift in a direction he did not want to deal with in this room of strangers. Like a dark, uncomfortable cloud, the thoughts still lingered in the back of his mind, but he forced himself to focus on other man, Oberon. He seemed the kinder of the two, offering his home, but his words seemed almost too good to be true. Neither of them had talked down to Sindri in a way that said they believed they owned him, but…. after so many years, how could it be that easy? He was just… rescued? He was just… free?

“England…” Sindri said in quiet recognition. He wasn’t allowed outside under most of his masters, and when he was he was lead in chains. Travel was his only exposure to the outside world, and England was probably the place he’d passed through the most. Glass doors of a carriage or bars always separated him from the different landmarks he’d been able to see, he did not know their names, but he knew they were a part of England. This Oberon owned a large part of it? He wondered if Oberon owned any of the things he’d seen…

A chill ran up Sindri’s spine and caused his back to straighten at the mention of Gwyn. Something cold ran through his blood, and he had to struggle not to succumb to it’s icy crawl.

“You… have history?” Sindri asked, and the slightest crease knit in his brow. He glanced at Jareth as he growled, and it was easy enough to infer, based on his reaction and Sindri’s own knowledge of Gwyn, that it was likely something terrible. The brief flash of grief over Oberon’s face did not go unnoticed, but Sindri said nothing. He swallowed the urge to ask, but in a way he was comforted with the knowledge that Oberon might understand, on some level, the pain Gwyn’s fingers could exact.

But then something in Sindri’s mind changed. Oberon explained his wards, and all of this suddenly seemed too good. The little wave of trust he’d felt stirring came crashing down on him in a wave, and he was overwhelmed with the sense that something wasn’t right.

“I… I don’t understand. How do you know Gwyn? How do you know…” he paused, and the crease in his brow deepened. He gestured to the room around then, his expression as incredulous as it was skeptical. “How could you have any idea of what life of- of a- what- what my life has been like?!” How could anyone who lived in a home like this understand his experiences? The more Sindri thought about it the more certain he became that this couldn’t be real. This didn’t make sense! NO- no- something about this was all wrong. He couldn’t let Gwyn get to him-

Sindri’s head swam and he snapped his eyes shut as his vision blurred. He placed a hand against his temple to steady himself, but the ground still rocked beneath him. A swell of panic seized his chest, and the creeping sense that Gwyn was watching- waiting around a corner to reveal the end of his newest trick- a new way to dowse the last embers of fire from Sindri’s spirit- but- Sindri was going to beat him to it! He wouldn’t let Gwyn get him with this- he couldn’t-

“How could you- how do I know this isn’t- isn’t some elaborate trick! Some- some terrible illusion to make me think I’m- I could really be - that- that-” suddenly Sindri couldn’t breathe, and he gasped as his chest tightened, restricting his air. His fingers curled into the front of his tunic as the world started spinning, and finally Sindri’s knees buckled beneath him, sending him to the ground as he feebly attempted to catch himself.

Oberon tried to let the hippogriff reason through things on his own. He knew it was a lot to take in, but he didn’t want to interrupt the other’s thought processes as he worked through so much new information. He stayed silent at first - waiting for Sindri to calm himself enough so that Oberon could offer him proper answers.

But that didn’t happen.

Instead, the other’s anxiety seemed to grow increasingly worse. The king frowned, hating that he and Jareth had been the cause of this... but also knowing there was no other way. Like pulling a piece of glass from the pad of your foot - it had to be done regardless of the pain.

When the young man began to fall, Oberon didn’t think. He just reacted. Faster than any human possibly could, he was up and across the room, barely managing to save Sindri from striking the ground. He hadn’t meant to touch. Not when he could guess easily enough all the unwanted hands his unexpected guest had endured over the years. But he also couldn’t stand to see the young man collapse. The Fae’s hold was gentle and loose, giving Sindri ample room to break free should he choose to.

“I... do not know what to say to convince you this is no trick,” he murmured. “I suppose there is not any good way... except time. Perhaps we could find small ways to settle your nerves? When was the last time you ate? Perhaps we could discuss things further over a meal?”

“The two of you are welcome to do all the talking you please,” Jareth interrupted. “I, however, have places to be.”

“Brother...” But before Oberon could say more, his twin had vanished in a puff of colored smoke and glitter. The king frowned. “He knows I hate it when he does that in the house! His damned fairy dust takes months to get out of the rugs...!”

Flushing as he realized he’d allowed Sindri to witness the small outburst of annoyance, the Fae cleared his throat. “Forgive me. I care deeply for my brother, but sometimes...” He sighed and shook his head before returning to his previous offer. “If food is of no interest, perhaps a ride through the grounds? Some fresh air?” He looked imploringly at the hippogriff. “I know how impossible this all must seem, but I only wish to help. Please. Tell me how I can help you?”

#changingthelight #The Last of Us #SteamFantasy!AU #(( I wasn't sure how Sindri would react to Oberon catching him...#So I tried to leave it as open as possible.#But if you think his reaction would keep Oberon from talking #Or Jareth from leaving #Let me know and I can change things. ^_^ ))