Pearl Sands

Shark Clan // Chieftain's Sister // 386 // Pooka  *This blog is for RP purposes only and is NOT affiliated with the real Q'orianka Kilcher*

[pooka-pearl]

shymelody​:

wtfreya-briar:

It would probably do wonders for his confidence, just knowing he could handle himself. After everything that happened with the Tithe Freya knew he’d had a rough go of it, and the reason the riots of seelie court didn’t scare her was because she was used to much more violence in day to day life anyway. For someone raised in the prim and properness of Wisteria it had to have come as a bit of a shock. Even Pearl was probably a little shaken by it all- if she’d heard much about it, that was, celestials knew Titus liked to keep as much of that kind of stuff quiet from her as possible. Not that he really could, with Freya for a friend she’d find out eventually.

“..Yeah.” Freya shrugged, sipping her drink, “what, you want me to drawl out Edmund every single time?” She teased lightly, a smile still on her face so he’d know it was just a bit of fun, “it’s a fine name don’t get me wrong, s’just a bit fancy, y’know? Eddie’s cooler. Eddie can do archery.” She was trying to draw him back out, to make conversation a little easier and less tense. Ok so he didn’t know Pearl very well, but Freya did, so hopefully her trust in their third party would be enough to smooth things over. She really didn’t want to upset Pearl here, the whole point of this had been so the two could get to know eachother. 

Freya nods, “hey, bring me some cool shark seeds! Shit that needs water to grow, maybe I can convince Harland to let me dig out a lake!” Now that was an idea, “think how fucking great that would be in the summer, shit just chilling in my own little lake? Yeah. I gotta do that.” 

Aaaand great. One nice gesture from a friend got all twisted up and now they both felt like shit. “Will you two chill the fuck out?” Freya laughed, shaking her head. “Has seelie politics gone to your had that fucking much? Jeez. I didn’t ask either of you to bring anything! Pearl. The iced buns were a nice gesture, and it’s cool to see something that you’ve been working on. It wasn’t rude to bring them. Eddie.” Freya shifted to face him more, trying to catch his eye. “It wasn’t rude of you not to bring anything either. ‘Cause like I said, I didn’t ask you to. So why don’t we all just fucking relax, eat some iced buns, and drink our tea. Or..” She raised her little teacup full of liquor, “whatever it is we happen to be drinking.” 

Freya relaxed back into some cushions and sipped her drink. “You’ve gone with the best teacher for archery though Eddie, I gotta say. I can teach you some cool trick shots and shit but Rye is the real deal, sharpest shooter on our side during the war between the courts, I’ve heard. Not that- don’t ask him about that shit, obviously.” She shakes her head, “Pearl could teach you how to fish, right? Then you’d have enough skills under your belt to fuck off and live in the wildlands if you wanted.”

@shymelody @pooka-pearl

The look on Edmund’s face was a bit of everything. At the same time he looked slightly amused, but confused and puzzled, yet happy to have a nickname. “Simple, but definitely something no one else ever used.” If there ever was a nickname it most likely had nothing to do with Edmund’s actual name. Even Balthazar used some odd word, Parvulus, and Edmund still wasn’t that sure what it truly meant. Something about ‘little’ but that’s all he had figured out so far. And the other nicknames people used… They weren’t really names someone used from a friend. And not really nicknames either, just words to call someone by. “Eddie can do archery”, he repeated and chuckled with a slight shake of his head.

Freya mentioning some weird seeds did catch Edmund’s interest, but he didn’t dare to ask more questions about it. Although when she started to talk about an actual pool he couldn’t help but look around the yard for a good spot for it. He leaned to his right at first looking further to the yard, then to his left and then pointed straight forward from where he was sitting to one spot that did have a bit more of a spacious spot with no trees on the way. “There could be a good place for one. If not an actual pool, for a pond for sure.” Then he looked at Freya, his cheeks turning a bit red again as he got sort of excited of the idea by giving his own suggestion about it. “I mean, there you wouldn’t have to cut down any trees so they can grow at peace.”

And then at the same time he remembered he wasn’t there alone with Freya and the tone of his voice got a lot quieter towards the end of his sentence and he clearly found something super interesting about his own fingers as he started to stare down to them. Freya scolding them didn’t really help the situation and Edmund just felt like he should head back home before he’d make others even more upset with himself. “Sorry”, he said quietly and did what he was told to do: drank some of his tea in all silence.

A quick glance was given in Freya’s direction and he nodded softly. “I wasn’t going to ask anyone to teach me, but Rye noticed my bow right after I had bought it so he pretty much offered to help me out. And I’m thankful for it.” Then a tiny smile appeared, just to disappear few seconds after, and Edmund looked at Freya from the corner of his eye. “He has told me about some things that happened during the war. We had.. a pretty intense talk about stuff the other day.” He wasn’t going to go into details of what they had talked about, especially because those things were just for him and Rye to know.

“Living in the Wildlands, huh”, he thought aloud but then chuckled. “Do you know someone who can teach me how to build a house as well?”

@pooka-pearl @wtfreya-briar

Pearl smiled into her cup, amused as always by Freya’s foul mouth. She was not offended, as someone might expect a softspoken waif like Pearl to be, but rather excited and awestruck by her friend’s unapologetic attitude. Following Edmund’s extended finger, she nodded in agreement, glad that he had said more than a few words at a time.

At Freya’s scolding, Pearl’s face and ears flushed a deep crimson but she was grateful for her candor. In situations where the Shark would normally just clam up in awkwardness, she could always count on Freya to cut through the bullshit. She took a deep breath, trying to shake out some of the nervous tension that had been accumulating in her body. With an apologetic smile, she turned to Edmund. “I’m sorry, Edmund. I’m not very good talking to new people, and I’ve been especially nervous around you. I do hope that we can be friends.” Her voice cracked towards the end, as she’d said more than she’d intended, so she just cleared her throat and took another sip of spiked tea.

Pearl brightened as the discussion turned towards Edmund’s archery lessons and the Wildlands, things she was far more comfortable with. “Oh, Rye is teaching you archery?” she asked with interest. “He tried to teach me once when we were very young, but I was too weak to even string a bow,” she admitted, her laugh a mixture of fond memories and embarrassment. A dark expression passed over her face as he mentioned his talk with Rye about the war, but she perked up again at his question. “Hmmm...depends on what kind of house you’d like, I suppose. If you want to live among the trees, then certainly a Sparrow should teach you! Have you been to the Wildlands, Edmu...Eddie?” she asked, tentatively trying out his new nickname with a shy smile. 

@wtfreya-briar​ @shymelody​

[pooka-pearl]

king-of-thieves​:

pooka-pearl​:

A Peculiar Pooka

It had been a dull night. August had retired early and alone. Which in itself was an unusual occurrence. Rising himself from slumber, loose garments dripping from his stretching body, August sauntered to the balcony overlooking the street in the distance. Peculiar, he thought as the figure of a woman appeared. She seemed lost. It didn’t take August long to realize who had stumbled so close to his web, Pearl.

“You aren’t lost are you!” August shouted with an amused smile.” He plopped up to the balcony railing where he stretched out with his arms crossed behind his head. “A shark out of water. Does Titus know where you have been? Don’t worry, I am no snitch.” HE chuckled softly as he waved her toward his manner. “You hungry? I was just about to call for breakfast when I saw you wandering the streets. Come inside and I will see to it that you get home.”

She jumped at the sudden sound, glancing around in confusion before noticing the figure stretched out along a balcony railing. Pearl squinted, trying to make out who had called to her as she shielded her eyes from the sun. His voice sounded vaguely familiar, but she couldn’t see his face well enough to determine his identity. 

Her body stiffened as he mentioned Titus - clearly this person recognized her, so perhaps they were familiar? She stepped towards the home, biting her lip. What other choice did she have, besides wandering the streets until someone less friendly found her? “That’s very kind of you,” Pearl called back up, her voice wavering only slightly as she approached the door. But when her rescuer’s face came into view, her expression of nervousness swiftly changed into one of surprise and unease. Before her now stood August Beedle, the notorious leader of the Fox Clan, feared and distrusted even among the Solitary fae. What had she just gotten herself into?

[pooka-pearl]

A Peculiar Pooka

@king-of-thieves

Pearl left Aubrey’s feeling much better, her basket now empty and mind free of worry. She smiled as she waved goodbye, the sun now high and bright as midday approached. After the events of last night, she had been distressed by the idea that she had somehow messed things up between him and Rose, but he had reassured her that everything was okay. 

The Shark walked slowly through the streets, her mind distracted with daydreams. How sweet it was, she thought, that Aubrey was so enamored with Rose and yet insisted on waiting for her to come to him. She would be thrilled if anyone thought of her that way, though the possibility seemed so unlikely. In all her novels, the love interest just magically appeared one day and it was love at first sight but here...wait a second, where am I? 

Pearl stopped walking, looking around at the now-unfamiliar streets surrounding her. She must have missed her turn and wound up somewhere completely new. Frowning, she turned in a slow circle. If she could just retrace her steps to Aubrey’s, she should be able to get home no problem...but Pearl recognized nothing, having been so lost in thought that she couldn’t even pick out which street she’d come from. 

[pooka-pearl]

shymelody​:

wtfreya-briar​:

“Archery?!” Freya repeated, sitting up a little straighter and grinning, “no way! That’s cool as shit! Hey, I have a couple of bows upstairs, maybe we can practice later and I’ll give you some tips!” She was of the belief that everyone should know how to defend themselves, be it through fist fighting or sword skills or whatever. Archery seemed like it would suit Eddie- you needed good hands for it after all, and it was easy to work from a distance so you werent so up close to any danger.

Plus, the picture of him with a bow and arrow was honestly kind of appealing, but Freya always had been more attractive to people who looked ready to battle. It was a little disheartening to hear he hadn’t been writing, but she wasn’t sure if there was anything she could do to help him in that department. Make him a new instrument, maybe? Like a cool drum, or wooden flute, just to try and get the inspiration flowing again. She wanted to hear more about it but he totally clammed up when Pearl arrived, and it made her frown. Honestly this was why he should’be had a little liquor, maybe that’d loosen him up a bit.

Freya snorted, running her hand across a patch of short grass, “it’s boring as hell.” She disagreed, “and serves no purpose other than being pretty. I can give him a garden that’s pretty and useful. Some healing plants, a couple of poison berry bushes, stuff that will attract more wilflife.” She waved her hand in a sort of ‘and so on’ gesture, sipping her drink. Freya nods along as Pearl explains the book, “it sounds fun. You two will have to tell me all about it once Eddie’s had a chance to read it himself. Maybe you could re-enact your favorite moments.” She laughs.

“Hey!” Freya gasps as the sweet treats are unvieled, giving Eddie a gentle nudge in the ribs with her elbow, “your favorite! Thanks Pearl, this is cool.” She throws Pearl a wink and  reaches inside for a bun, biting into it, “they do taste good!” 

@shymelody​ @pooka-pearl​

Edmund couldn’t help but smile and nod at Freya’s surprise. “Yeap, archery. And sure, if you want to show me things I don’t mind learning.” Edmund wanted to show Freya what he had learned already and in a way wanted to surprise her how much he already knew by now. He hadn’t been learning for long, but Rye had said multiple times that Edmund was a quick learner. And Edmund did think so too. He had always learned to play new instruments really quickly and clearly that skill to learn didn’t mean just instruments.

But that excitement and smile just hid away with Pearl around and Edmund was definitely keeping himself busy by staring at his own shoes. They weren’t fancy and new like the ones he wore at the castle, but these shoes felt way more comfortable. Plus it was way more easier to run in those shoes than the other ones. Balthazar, or probably Atlas, had a really good eye on clothes and shoes that Edmund would like.  There really hadn’t been many garments he hadn’t liked, and even then it had been extremely hard to say that aloud. Or well, Edmund hadn’t really said it, Atlas had just guessed it by the way Edmund reacted or how he didn’t really use those clothes. And then all of a sudden those clothes just disappeared from his closet and new ones appeared on their places.

Edmund listened Pearl’s explanation about the book and the tiniest frown came to his face. He didn’t want to know what the book was about, he just knew the short synopsis because he wanted to read the book himself. Not hear about someone else’s thoughts before he had read it. But he wasn’t saying anything, not until Freya all of a sudden called him ’Eddie’. The frown turned slightly deeper and he looked in Freya’s direction. “..did you just call me Eddie?” No one ever called him with any kind of nicknames – other than Balthazar, but Balthazar was an odd man.

The elbow on his ribs made Edmund make a face, but Freya did get a tiny glance with a small simile in return. He looked at the sweet buns Pearl had made and Edmund had to admit, they did look delicious. “They look great, Pearl”, he said as he carefully tooked one of the buns out of the basket. And then all of a sudden a realisation hit him. “..I didn’t bring anything with me.”

@pooka-pearl @wtfreya-briar​

“Maybe I can sneak in some seeds for you next time,” she responded with a quiet giggle. Personally, Pearl thought it wonderful how so many things among the Seelie existed for the sole purpose of being beautiful, but Freya (like many Solitary fae) had always seemed appreciate functionality more. 

Pearl practically glowed at Freya and Edmund’s reactions to the treats, her cheeks flushing bright pink as he said her name. She deflated quickly, though, at his comment, realizing that she’d made him feel bad. “Oh no, I um...perhaps it was rude of me to bring anything,” she tried to amend, her eyebrows knitting together with worry. She was really making a mess of things, wasn’t she? Her throat felt tight as she became flustered, unsure of how to remedy the situation. 

Every time she tried to say something or do something nice to befriend Edmund, it seemed to all go wrong. She liked him, it was true, in the naive and childish way that someone as inexperienced as Pearl could like anyone. But more than that, she wanted to be his friend. Not only had she admired his music for so long, but she had also been surprised upon meeting him by how quiet and sad he had seemed. But now, despite her best efforts, she was only making a fool of herself around him. 

Frustrated with herself for being such an idiot, Pearl bit her lip and sank lower into the cushions on the ground. This day was not going at all how she’d hoped.

@shymelody​ @wtfreya-briar​

[pooka-pearl]

aubrey-crane​:

pooka-pearl​:

House Calls II Aubrey & Pearl

“No.” Aubrey burried his head in his palms with a nervous laugh. “Not that you wouldn’t be worth it,  or um….worthy of getting a kiss. Oh boy….I think this situation is a lose, lose situation.” Aubrey put the pieces together then. It all made sense now. 

“I very much enjoy you as a friend, but only a friend. If Rose wasn’t in the picture….She has me by the heart and I can’t  see myself with anyone else. Oh Pearl, I am so sorry. I think I deserved to get punched by your brother.”

“Yes, yes she was kind enough and I apologized for trying to kiss her. I think she may believe I am crazy. “ Aubrey shook his head. “I can’t just sweep her off her feet. I want her to come to me on her own. She was burned by a faerie before. I am afraid she will not think I am sincere. I do not want to be like the man who left her alone in this dog-eat-dog world.”

She giggled at his flustered response, waving her hands as if to brush away his apologies. “Please, don’t worry,” Pearl replied with a small smile. “I did not misunderstand, I know how you feel about her.” In fact, Pearl found his devotion to Rose quite sweet - if she didn’t know Aubrey, she would be very surprised by how smitten and worried he was.

Nodding, Pearl bit her lip as she considered his words. While they were tending to Aubrey, Rosemary had told her a bit of how she’d come to Belladonna seeking support for her halfling child. At the time, Pearl had admired how strong this human woman must be to continue on in their world after being denied by the child’s father, but now she could see how Rose’s past could complicate a relationship between her and Aubrey. 

“It’s very kind of you to consider her feelings like that,” she said softly, marveling at how difficult relationships seemed to be among city fae. In the Shark Clan, like most solitary clans, things like relationships and sex were very casual and open...not that Pearl would really know anything about that. “Have you told her about how you feel? In the stories, things always seem easier after a profession of love! I think you could tell her of your feelings without pressuring her in any one direction,” Pearl pondered, thinking of all the ways heroes in her novels announced their love for a fair maiden. Those guys usually had a happy ending, so why couldn’t Aubrey and Rose have one too? 

[pooka-pearl]

shymelody​:

wtfreya-briar:

pooka-pearl:

A Shark, A Songbird, And A Wolf | Freya, Pearl, Edmund

Freya was not one for formalities- an understatement, to say the least- but she knew Pearl would probably get a kick out of the whole thing, and really by this point she almost felt bad about how little the staff had to do when it was only her around. She understood wanting to earn your keep and apparently they’d all been quite excited that there was going to be a new person living on the estate with Harland, come to find she’d barely even let them run her a bath. It was probably as much of an adjustment for them as it had been to her, learning to deal with someone so particular. 

“Eddie!” She grinned, waving him over. “Grab yourself a drink. We’ve got booze, tea.. That’s about it, I went with booze, obviously.” Freya raised her little tea cup in a cheers, taking a sip. “I’m good! I’ve been making stone arrowheads lately and carving stuff into them for people, so that’s a fun hobby. How’re you? Composed any new masterpieces?” She wasn’t sure what else he would do in his down time at the Black manor beside play with the dogs.

When Pearl arrived Freya gestured her over to join the group, “yeah it’s nice ain’t it. Look at me being a proper lady and all that. Sorry the garden is so boring, I’ve been trying to convince Harland to let it grow wild but he hasn’t budged yet. I want tall grass and herbs and wildland flowers, y’know? A real ‘the wolf of the court lives here’ vibe.” Freya watched the book exchange and hummed softly- she couldn’t read much herself, but it wasn’t surprising Pearl had learned. “What was the story about?”

Sometimes Edmund felt sort of shocked by the fact how Freya didn’t seem to even notice his shyness or if she did she definitely didn’t seem to be bothered by it. There she was all smiling and talking like no tomorrow, which only made Edmund’s smile grew wider. “I think I’ll take tea”, he replied but you could hear him chuckle softly at Freya choosing the booze over the tea. Of course she would do that.

“I don’t know did I tell you yet, but I’m sort of trying to learn archery. It’s not really going that well, but.. at least I’m trying, yea?” In a way Edmund hoped Freya would get excited about this little info, or be proud or something. It was like Edmund’s silent desire for Freya to like him and not just think him as the weird shy musician. Not that she seemed to think that really, but.. just in case. Edmund knew he would never really be cool or anything like that, but getting to new hobby that was something you might never think he’d be doing was pretty neat, right?

At the question of him composing, Edmund shook his head. “No, I haven’t. I… I still haven’t really composed a thing. I know it has been over a year, but.. I still can’t really bring myself to do it. It’s like-..” and then Edmund’s whole body just froze when all of a sudden he heard another voice. He swallowed the rest of the sentence, cast his gaze down to the ground right away and you could see how he quickly escaped to his shell now that someone else was around.

He said a really quiet ‘hello’ to Pearl once she came closer to them, but his attention was definitely on his own shoes as he listened the girls talking. When the book was brought up, Edmund glanced at it, gave Pearl extremely quick and extremely tiny smile as he carefully took the book from her hands. “Thanks.. You.. didn’t need to bring it here.. I.. uh.. could’ve just.. get it from the library..” His voice was a lot quieter than a moment ago when he had been talking to Freya. When he had been talking to her you could actually hear him talk and he even looked at her while talking, now he was pretty much talking to his shoes. If you even can call that really quiet tone of his voice as talking..

@wtfreya-briar​ @pooka-pearl​

Pearl grinned at Freya’s welcome, glad to see that her friend finally seemed to be adjusting to city life after resisting so ardently at first. “I think it’s lovely, but I can see why you would miss the wildness of home,” she replied, looking over the carefully manicured flora. 

Wincing at Edmund’s response as he took the book, Pearl worried that perhaps this hadn’t been such a good idea after all. Did he not want her here? Since she’d arrived, it felt as though she had intruded on something. “Oh, it’s a wonderful adventure!” Pearl tried to smile again as she answered Freya’s question. “Full of daring battles, torrid romance, and mysterious prophecies. I don’t want to spoil it before Edmund gets to read it, but it’s quite exciting! At least, I found it to be.” She cleared her throat awkwardly, reaching to pour herself a cup of tea. Before the cup reached her lips, she frowned and threw a splash of whiskey in there to help calm her nerves. 

“Oh, and I tried my hand at making these,” Pearl said shyly, uncovering the basket at her side. Fragrantly sweet iced buns lay inside, the icing a little messy but the bread underneath warm and soft. She’d spent the past few days trying to get them right through trial and error, the kitchen littered with flour and failed attempts. “They’re not as pretty as in the shops, but the guards asked me to leave some behind so I think they taste alright!” Her smile returned, as she was honestly a bit proud of how they’d turned out. She grinned at Freya, silently thanking her for the tip about Edmund’s favorite treats.

@wtfreya-briar​ @shymelody​

[pooka-pearl]

alektobone​:

pooka-pearl​:

Caught in the Undertow II Alekto & Pearl: TFF Event

Alekto hummed in response, tilting her head as she observed the other faerie. The girl was a pretty young thing, so innocent and gentle that the Archmage did not greet her words with the level of dismissal she would have offered had anyone else made such a statement. It was a hopeful existence, too filled with faith for Alekto’s liking. The same faith, perhaps, that had led such a sweet thing to approach her and remain comfortable in her presence. 

Perhaps a better person would have felt remorse at using such blind faith. Alekto never had cared much to be a better person, however. If nothing else, the girl was better off in her claws than Byrd’s. 

“Hold onto that optimism, love, it’s quite rare. Places like Anvali Castle have a way of choking out life over time.” Emptying her glass, Alekto shifted the manner in which she held it, her magic gradually beginning to morph and distort the material until it moved as if made of liquid, suspended in the air just above her palm. “Tell me, how have your endeavors to seek involvement with your clan and the court been?” 

Pearl tilted her head, considering for the first time if perhaps the court fae felt just as stifled by city life as she did by Titus’ controlling hand. To her, the cities had always seemed so full of life, knowledge, and opportunity. The structure and rules of the courts fascinated her, but she was beginning to realize how they could just as easily stifle and bore people like Freya and Alekto. 

Teetering on the brink of this epiphany, Pearl was suddenly distracted by the Archmage’s show of power. Her eyes grew wide as she watched with undisguised wonder as Alekto toyed with what used to be a drinking glass. “My endeavors,” she muttered, painstakingly tearing her gaze away from the shimmering material. “Oh, they’re going well I think! Titus said I can get my own personal servant, like a real Lady, and I can even help pick who it is!” Her expression had brightened, though her eyes wandered back to Alekto’s hand. “I’ve never really gotten to be part of the decision-making before, so it’s a good start right?” The Shark beamed, bouncing slightly on the balls of her feet. 

The music picked up, and Pearl swayed a bit where she stood. “We could dance a bit, if you want,” she giggled, observing the woman’s glamoured form. “It could cause quite a stir with your disguise! Though...well Titus has already punched someone tonight because of me so perhaps not the best idea.” A sheepish smile spread across her face, fueled by the alcohol and the jovial atmosphere of the party. Pearl thought it incredible how she had once been so intimidated by the person she now considered a friend. 

[pooka-pearl]

House Calls II Aubrey & Pearl

[pooka-pearl]

aubrey-crane‌:

“You let yourself have a little fun.” Aubrey was proud of her for that. “Though you didn’t tell me how I behaved. It must be bad, your silence is discouraging.” HE laughed at the what he imagined had happened. Oh the possibilities were endless. “Rosemary didn’t kick me out. She actually made me breakfast. I was worried she might have been jealous of you.”

Aubrey sat on a lounge chair putting the pieces together. “I tried to kiss her too. I can’t quite fathom why she didn’t let more because I think she likes me. Its all very confusing for a man like me. What do you make of it?”

She smiled sheepishly, unsurprised that he had noticed her non-answer. “If I didn’t know you, I would’ve been quite shocked with your behavior,” Pearl confirmed, half-giggling half-wincing at the memory of Aubrey acting a drunken delinquent.  Her eyes widened at his comment, relieved to hear that they were still on good terms but confused as to why Rosemary might be jealous of her. “Jealous?” she repeated dumbly, crossing her arms. “Of me? Why?” 

Her face flushed bright red once again as he recounted the failed attempt at a kiss, and she cleared her throat as she tried to formulate an answer. “Well...erm...perhaps that’s why she got the wrong impression...” she started, unable to look Aubrey in the eye. “You see...well you were very confused and...um...well it was me you tried to kiss, actually, by mistake.” The last words came out in a jumbled rush, and the Shark grimaced. “I think Rosemary might have seen and misunderstood...” She buried her face in her hands, embarrassed and feeling badly about possibly causing a rift between them. “But it seems as though it all got sorted out, right? If she was kind enough to take care of you and make you breakfast?” Her eyebrows knit together in a hopeful but worried expression as she finally looked up at him. 

[pooka-pearl]

Caught in the Undertow II Alekto & Pearl: TFF Event

[pooka-pearl]

alektobone‌:

“Curiosity,” Alekto repeated with a scoff, downing another swallow from her glass and ignoring the burn of liquor down her throat. It would have been a lie to say she was truly keeping track of how much she’d been drinking that night, or to say that she had much intention of stopping any time soon. She was sober enough, even if her thoughts bore the slight fog of intoxication and her voice- even with the glamour shifting it to that of a man to better suit the illusion appearance she wore- came out with an ever lower purr to her words than normal. “For some, perhaps, you’re right. I’m more inclined to believe that half the people here came for entertainment and distraction, while the other half came to keep up appearances and seek out opportunity.” 

To be quite honest, Alekto wasn’t entirely sure which of the two she would have considered herself a part of. Not that it truly mattered right now, when she’d firmly decided she was simply there to enjoy herself in whatever way she felt inclined. 

Noting the brief shift in the other fae, Alekto ensured her demeanor remained a welcoming one, the slight amusement in her gaze not entirely false. It would do no good to give the pooka cause to run off so quickly, after all. “In one way or another, I’ve had dealings with all the clans. Some more pleasant than others,” she hummed with a shrug. “I’ve enough experience with and respect for your people and the other clans to be well aware that any sidhe who believes the Solitary fae inconsequential is a fool. Besides-” the ghost of a smile came upon her lips “-most of the time I find it far easier to stomach being around the clans than courtiers.”

Pearl’s brows furrowed as she considered these other motivations - while the Shark could certainly be described as empathetic, she was naive enough to struggle imagining someone having motives other than genuine and well-natured curiosity. 

Relieved that the Archmage did not seem to be bored or annoyed by her, Pearl smiled and relaxed her shoulders, taking a sip of her drink as she listened. Her cheeks flushed slightly at the compliment. While the Pooka was fascinated by city life and adored the extravagance of the Seelie, she was not unaware of how many fae viewed the clans. While she did her best to fit in and please practically everyone in Wisteria, it was hurtful to hear how some disparaged her people. 

“It seems as if everyone is unhappy being at court,” she said, a little confused. Almost nobody she spoke to actually enjoyed the parties or the decorum like she did. “Freya says it’s tedious and suffocating...but I think it’s lovely. So much happening all the time, so many people to meet.” She sighed, painfully aware of the disparity between glamorous city life and her own sleepy existence at home. “Perhaps it’s mainly those who were not raised at court that dislike it,” she wondered aloud.

[amity-alder]

Peaceful | Amity & Pearl

[pooka-pearl]

amity-alder‌:

Amity laughed gently. “Court politics are often far too tangled, I try to avoid it altogether when possible. There are admirable aspects to court life though,” Amity continued, “and I would be happy to show you some of those when roles are reversed and we are in my territory. You can take the fancy dresses and dance in my stead. I am quite terrible at it.” 

The sound of the wind over the cave startled Amity, but she took Pearl’s lead. If there was more to be concerned about, she was sure the other fairie would have told her. “How does the shark clan solve conflict? I learned a little about how they choose their leaders, and I know they typically are matriarchal, but the rest of it is shrouded in mystery.” 

Brightening considerably at Amity’s offer, Pearl nodded happily. “I’d enjoy that very much,” she murmured, taking a deep breath of ocean air. The Shark considered her question, nodding in agreement as Amity mentioned their matriarchal structure. “Within the clan? Usually conflict will be solved by the chieftan and council of elder women...between clans, we are quick to draw weapons. Though, I cannot say much about our conflicts with other fae. I am not privy to much of the decision-making,” she admitted with a sullen sigh. 

Another windy howl echoed from the cave, and Pearl jumped. Laughing softly, she shook her head and looked at Amity. “I’m sorry if I seem on edge,” she said, a slightly embarrassed smile tugging at the corners of our mouth. “This is the most beautiful spot on the beach, but it happens to be right next to Weeping Widow’s cave. It’s supposedly haunted by the spirit of a mourning mermaid. They say you can still hear her tormented wailing when the wind whistles through the lagoon.” She shivered despite the warmth of the sunlight. “It has terrified me since I was a Seedling.”

[wtfreya-briar]

A Shark, A Songbird, And A Wolf | Freya, Pearl, Edmund

[shymelody]

wtfreya-briar‌:

Freya wasn’t exactly a romantic. She appreciated the notion, the effort, the work it took not only to find a companion but keep them. It had never held much appeal to her, she was comfortable enough with friends and fuck buddies, no matter what the seelie court might have to say about it. One thing that had always been important to her though was friendship. You could never have enough loyal friends, and she’d found more often than not that they easily became as integral to you as any blood relative could be. Perhaps that was a value instilled mostly in clan raised folk but regardless, she’d learned you could find these integral people all over the place.

Pearl and Edmund were two such people, surprising as that may be to an outside observer. They were both far softer and friendlier than anyone might expect company of Freya’s to be, but she’d found than soft and friendly folk were often the most open and accepting of people different to them. Like Freya, who swore like a sailor and proved points with her fists and couldn’t get a comb through her hair.

So when Pearl asked Freya to provide the neutral ground where the two potential love birds could socialize away from gossiping bitches, well, she was happy too. Afternoon tea wasn’t a tradition she observed often but she’d asked for some help from Harland’s staff- they were almost too excited to assist, this was the first time she’d ever had guests over- and set up for the three of them in the garden. There was a table and chairs with all the tea fixings; tiny sandwiches, tea, and a bottle of whiskey at Freya’s own insistence- she was probably the only one who’d drink it, but still- but she’d also put together a little picnic area too with cushions and blankets arranged on the grass, so people could sit where they wanted.

(Her thinking was that once conversation really got going between the pair Freya would excuse herself to sit in the other area.) 

It was all a little bit ridiculous, in her opinion. She’d told Pearl on more than one occasion to just strike up a conversation on her own, but apparently she was far too shy for that. So here Freya was trying to push the two together, because she was such a good friend. Well, not push. She had no idea what Edmund even thought about Pearl- they hadn’t talked about her- but she couldn’t see why the pairing wouldn’t work. 

With a sigh Freya flopped onto one of the pillows in the grass and took a sip from her first glass of whiskey, waiting for Edmund and Pearl to arrive and be shown through to the garden.

@pooka-pearl @shymelody

Edmund wasn’t quite sure why he was invited to Briar estate on this fine day, but it was actually rather nice to leave the Black manor for a bit. Especially since it had been quite a long time since he had been at Briar estate. It was nice to visit there again, especially now that Edmund wasn’t that nervous to be around Harland or Freya. He was almost normal around the two, which was extremely good thing in Edmund’s eyes. He was definitely more ‘normal’ and talkative when he was around Freya, but Harland didn’t make him as nervous as he used to. So you could definitely say he was more confident while being around the two.

As Edmund arrived to the house, he was pretty much expecting Freya to open the door or just jump on him once he knocks the door, but to his surprise neither happened and someone completely new to him said he was being awaited at the gardens and then requested to follow this new person. Edmund definitely looked extremely confused by this formality, but he did follow without a word.

Once in the gardens you could see how Edmund’s demeanor changed from the shy and sort of apologetic for having to be taken to the garden by this stranger to this happy and smiling fae on the second he saw Freya. Edmund quickly thanked the person who had taken him there and then he walked to Freya. “Hi”, he said once he was closer, and almost walked over to her to give her a hug, but then shyed away from it and just put his hands behind his back and looked down to his feet for a moment. He bit his lip a bit and carefully looked up to Freya again. “So.. how are you?”

@pooka-pearl​ @wtfreya-briar​

[pooka-pearl]

Pearl let out a shaky breath, smoothing her skirt and adjusting the basket on her arm. She’d worn a light sea foam green dress and beaded some small shells throughout her hair in an effort to look a little more...well, pretty. She’d spent the past few days perfecting her recipe for iced buns, and now stood at the Briar manor feeling a dizzying combination of nervous and excited. 

As she was led through the house, Pearl felt her face and neck flush red with anxiety. The Shark was unusually shy, especially by her clan’s standards, and she was about to come face to face for only the second time with someone she admired - to say she was worried would be a vast understatement. What on earth would they talk about? Was this even a good idea? What if she completely embarrassed herself? Before she had time to think about what a grave mistake this might turn out to be, Pearl found herself at the entrance to the gardens. “Erm, thank you,” she said quietly to the person who’d shown her the way, clutching the basket to keep her hands from shaking as she stepped outside.

“H-hello,” she started meekly, trying not to trip as she walked towards them. Her body felt wooden with tension, so it was a relief when she finally made it to the collection of pillows on the ground. “This looks lovely, Freya,” she said as she sat down, her nerves lowering her voice to almost a whisper. “Thank you for inviting us." Although she was nervous out of her wits, Pearl’s words were sincere. While Freya could be brash and reckless, and often made jokes at Pearl’s expense, she really was a good and loyal friend when it came down to it. Pearl had always appreciated that about her, ever since they were little. “Oh and um...this is for you,” she murmured, reaching into the basket. “I hope you enjoy it as much as I did. Thank you for letting me take it first.” She handed the book from the library to Edmund with a shy smile, trying to calm her racing heartbeat. 

@shymelody @wtfreya-briar

[ryes-up]

Thought You Ought to Know || Flashback || Pearl & Rye

[ryes-up]

pooka-pearl‌:

The glamour continued down the darkened hallways and eventually out of the building. Pearl anxiously followed, careful to keep her footsteps as quiet as possible. It was leading her towards the edge of the Shark’s land, and she grew hesitant as they walked further and further from her home. Still, though, she followed. The familiarity and memories of happier times that the wolf-shark cub elicited were too tempting. 

Finally, they stopped. It was a secluded outcropping in the trees, though not so far or isolated that Pearl felt unsafe. She giggled silently as the glamour panted before her and disappeared. But, as she looked up, her face froze in a mixed expression of wonder and horror. “Ryes?” she breathed, feeling as if all the blood in her body had rushed to her head. He looked awful - battered and exhausted, his face and body were covered with scars and fresher wounds. The dark bags under his eyes told her that he hadn’t slept for weeks.

Pearl stood breathless in shock as she looked upon her closest friend. His once bright, smiling face was now haggard and bereaved. He hadn’t aged much physically, but he somehow seemed eons older even though it had only been a few decades since she’d seen him last. His words finally broke her trance, and tears sprung into her eyes. Rushing towards him, Pearl wrapped her arms around his torso and let out a quiet sob as she breathed in his familiar scent. “I would have contacted you if I’d known how,” she whispered, squeezing him a bit tighter for a moment before pulling back and taking his hand in hers like they were children again. 

“I’ve been so worried about you, I didn’t know if I’d ever see you again…” Her voice broke on the last word, throat closing as more tears came rushing forward. It was as if a dam had broken, and every bit of worry that had been building since the war started was spilling out. Furiously wiping at her wet face, Pearl let out a mirthless breath of laughter. “I’m sorry, I don’t know what’s come over me. I’m just so happy to see you.” Gently cupped his face with her hand, Pearl furrowed her brow and lightly ran her finger over the cut on his face and dark circled under his eyes.”When was the last time you’ve slept?” she asked with a frown, sounding every bit the concerned little sister. 

As exhausted as he felt, and as beaten and battered as he knew he looked, a soft smile stretched across his lips at the look on Pearl’s face. “Of course it me, pup,” he said gently. “Who else would lure you out in the middle of the night with that bizarre monstrosity of a glamour,” he added with a wearied laugh. It felt like a breath finally let out when she rushed forward and hugged him, and he let his arms wrap around her, tight and secure. The brave face he’d had to put on for the Clan, the stoic nature the warriors expected of him, the tension that hadn’t left his shoulders since he saw the Wolf running towards their hiding place in Seelie territory to tell him about the ambush—it melted as his body folded around the young Shark as if he were able to shield her from the war that raged on.

“You can’t be rid of me the easily,” he teased, though something in his voice was still strained, his smile still not quite reaching his eyes. He squeezed her hand in his when she pulled back, and raised his other to wipe at the tears on her face. “It’s good to see you again. I’ve missed you.” He shook his head at the question, his strained smile falling a little. “A while,” he answered honestly. He could’ve lied, but it did him no good now. He didn’t come here to lie to her, and form the look on her face, he expected she would worry no matter what he said. “Unfortunately I can’t stay long enough to get any rest,” he added, the hand that wasn’t still clutching hers raising to cover her hand over the side of his face. “Certainly not in Shark territory. No offense, of course, but if your brother were to find me—well, let’s just say my head would make a rather valuable bargaining chip.” He meant the words to come out lighthearted and joking, but the intention fell flat. He should’ve figured out some decades ago that trying to make light during the war never had the intended effect. They could only joke so long before the jokes became bloody realities.

His smile dropped furthered, a painful frown curling his features as he glanced down for a moment, trying to gather his nerve. “I just wasn’t sure if you’d heard much about the casualties. From our side of the war, I mean.” His gaze met hers again, and he knew he was stalling, but he didn’t want to say the words out loud. He hadn’t said them out loud yet. “A few days ago, the Wolves were ambushed. I don’t think any Sharks were involved, from what they told me, just Seelie knights. I didn’t think anyone would tell you, maybe your brother doesn’t even know, but. It was pretty bad.”

[pooka-pearl]

“I’ve missed you too, Rye,” she murmured, frown deepening as the extent of his exhaustion became clear. Pearl nodded in understanding, knowing that even if she fought tooth and nail, nothing could save him if they were discovered right now. Although Titus would be greatly pained to hurt her so, she knew that his clan and the fight would come first. Although he tried to hide it from her, it was painfully obvious how much the war had hardened them all.

Pearl was not good at reading strangers’ intentions, but she knew Rye so well that it was obvious he needed to tell her something. Her concern grew as he became more agitated, and she searched his face for any hint of an answer. At his question, her eyes fell to the ground and she shook her head, embarrassed. “No, no one tells me anything,” she spat with an uncharacteristic venom in her voice. “Even when our own have suffered and fallen, they still try to hide the war from me.” She bites her lip, trying to keep from raising her voice in anger. 

Her hand covers he mouth in horror as he continues, though she cannot hide the relief she feels that her people, as far as they knew, had no part in the ambush. “Thank goodness you’re alright,” she whispered, voice shaking. The idea that Rye was often so close to vanishing form her life forever was not a fact that she had fully comprehended until now, and she knew it would make it difficult to let him leave again. “Who else was there?” she asked, her eyes pleading. She knew now why he would risk coming to enemy territory in the dead of night. There was bad news weighing heavily on his mind - bad enough that he had to tell her in person. Her heart was beating so hard that she could feel it pounding in her ears. “Rye....what’s happened?”

[pooka-pearl]

House Calls II Aubrey & Pearl

[pooka-pearl]

aubrey-crane‌:

Aubrey answered the door with a grin. Food, she shouldn’t have. “You brought me something delicious. Thank you.” Aubrey opened the door and sauntered back inside groggily. “Come in, come in.” He still wasn’t entirely sure what happened at the ball but he did just arrive back home. Rosemary had put him on her couch. He could get used to being that close  to her. 

Now Pearl came to apologize for her brother. “You are not the one who hit me.” He polished an apple against his shirt before biting into it. “But I appreciate you going to the trouble to deliver a basket of goodies.”

Aubrey hoped up onto the table and dangled his feet playfully. In many ways he acted far to young to be the criminal he was. “Say, tell me what happened at the ball after I got punched. I am dying to know how foolish I became.”

Pearl beamed as she followed him inside, quietly closing the door behind her. She was delighted that he didn’t seem to be angry with her, even though his face was still badly bruised by Titus’ anger. His words elicited a sigh of relief from her, and she watched with quiet contentment as he rifled through the basket. “It’s the least I could do,” she murmured, laughing as he hopped up on the table.

The Shark blushed at the question, turning towards the stove under the guise of putting on some tea in an attempt to hide the redness in her face. Did he not recall his sloppy attempt at a kiss, narrowly missing her lips as he mistook her for another? Or openly propositioning Rosemary to the point that even Pearl was embarrassed? He must not remember...she thought, slightly relieved by the prospect. 

“Well, I came looking for you soon after I’d heard what happened...” she started hesitantly, removing the bread from her basket and releasing a waft the sweet, salty scent through the room. “You were in a corridor, with Rosemary. We tried to get you tidied up and sober enough to stand again...it was quite a process, really,” she recounted, breaking off a piece of warm bread and handing it to him. “After that, she said she’d look after you for the rest of the night, which was quite kind of her. Honestly, the rest of the evening is hazy for me as well.” Pearl giggled, amused by the fogginess of drink and merriment that enveloped the rest of the party. 

[pooka-pearl]

Caught in the Undertow II Alekto & Pearl: TFF Event

[pooka-pearl]

alektobone‌:

“How fortunate of you,” Alekto hummed in response, smile already returning to her glamoured features. As much as she may have preferred to simply relax and enjoy herself for the night, it was hardly as if engaging the younger faerie was a taxing endeavor- and the opportunistic nature of the sorceress made it rather difficult to ignore how easy it would be to further increase her influence with Pearl by something as simple as holding casual conversation with the pooka. 

Tilting her head, she studied the other woman for a moment as the question was asked of her, a low chuckle rising from the Archmage’s throat as she nodded in response. “I’ve strong drink, entertainment, and pleasant company, all without need for enduring frivolous nobles or needless squabbles. I am enjoying myself immensely. The Fox Clan always has been a valuable ally to His Majesty and to me.” It was certainly not a lie. Alekto could respect August Beedle and his clan for their freedom and their motivations, as well as for their abilities during and beyond the war. Had she not been somewhat attached to the luxuries of the cities and her position as Archmage, perhaps she may have even envied their lifestyle to some extent.

It was odd hearing the Archmage’s characteristic purr of a voice coming from unfamiliar lips - heavy glamours such as this had always unnerved Pearl. Perhaps it was partly because she could not conjure such powerful magic herself, but other fae changing their appearance so completely and flawlessly set her on edge. 

She smiled at the response, glad that Alekto seemed to be having a better time at this masquerade than she had been at the tournament. The Shark imagined it was quite difficult to find time to enjoy oneself with so much responsibility...then again, she figured Alekto found ways to enjoy herself regardless of the situation. “I imagine so, since they are a fierce and cunning bunch,” she replied politely, glancing around as the music shifted songs. “Honestly, I’m surprised so many people braved the mountain trails to come tonight. Their curiosity must be strong, indeed. Though, I think the Sparrows are still the most mysterious of the Solitary clans. So much has changed since they last emerged, even I hardly recognize them now.” She prattled on, knowing she was rambling yet unable to stop herself. “Have you spent much time among the Solitary fae?” She asked finally, biting her tongue to keep her nerves from embarrassing her further. 

[pooka-pearl]

House Calls II Aubrey & Pearl

@aubrey-crane

Pearl walked quickly through the increasingly-familiar streets of Belladonna, her shoes making quiet click clicks as they pattered across the stone ground below her. She shifted the bag on her arm nervously, wondering if Aubrey even liked the foods she’d brought along. It had been a while since the ball, and she was starting to worry that his only memories with her involved being punched in the face. 

Finally arriving at his door, she took a deep breath and steeled herself for the possibility that he wasn’t even home. She knocked, her free hand fidgeting with the bag full of food. Some things, like the fruits, she’d gotten from the market. The bread she’d baked herself, seasoned with fresh sea salt and herbs from the forest. If he wasn’t home, that was okay...she’d just leave it here with a note. Though, she would be disappointed if she didn’t have the chance to say hello. 

“I’m sorry to drop by unannounced,” she said quietly. “I just thought...maybe you were free for lunch?”

[amity-alder]

Peaceful | Amity & Pearl

[pooka-pearl]

amity-alder‌:

Amity was quick to plop down at Pearl’s side, digging her feet into the white sands. It felt restorative to have the sun shining down on her. She turned her face up to the sky, closing her eyes and basking in the warmth. “We could swap,” Amity joked, “I’ll build myself a hut and never leave the shore and you can attend all the galas and banquets you can tolerate.” 

“I am an Evoker,” Amity said, before laughing aloud. She reached for Pearl’s hand and squeezed it reassuringly. “No offense taken. I appreciate the compliment for what it is. Unfortunately, I think court very rarely brings out the best in fairies.” 

Pearl giggled at her suggestion, but secretly wondered what it might be like to actually live at court. No guards watching her every move, no Titus to come storming in and berate her for sneaking away once again...She’d never understood why all these galas and banquets seemed to bore others so much. To her, they were wondrous and extravagant events.

Letting out a sigh of relief at the reassurance, the Shark squeezed back gently and smiled. She tilted her head curiously, observing the woman with wide eyes. Evokers were usually quite powerful, but she did not seem to wield her power with the same dizzying display as the Archmage of the Unseelie Court. Truthfully, Pearl was quite surprised by this revelation. Amity seemed so gentle and down to earth, it was difficult to imagine her in battle. 

She nodded in agreement, frowning. “Before the war, I didn’t really understand court politics. Even now, they still seem so tangled to me. It must be very hard to navigate.” The wind picked up slightly, eliciting an unusually loud howl from the cave. Pearl shuddered, glancing over with apprehension. “At least the clan leaders tend to be a bit more straightforward in their approach to conflict,” she continued. 

[wtfreya-briar]

Party Pranks | Freya & Pearl

[pooka-pearl]

wtfreya-briar‌:

That was cute. Freya wasn’t much prone to crushes herself- or perhaps her blunt nature made them very short lived, as she was quick to express her feelings and so quick to either be taken in or rejected. Much more efficient than the moping and drifting about she’d seen seelie women take to. Pearl was a shark, though! Despite her oddities she ought to have the confidence to move forward with something like this!

Honestly? Fuck TItus for turning her into such a shrinking violet. Fuck Titus for thinking he could hide her away like it was his choice what kind of life she had. Too often Freya saw the similarities between Titus and and Harland, and she was so glad she’d grown up away from the oppressive and protective habits men tried to force on young women in their care. 

“Oh, because he’s quiet and doesn’t really look at you?” Freya shakes her head, “as far as I can tell he’s like that with everyone. He’s shy. Isn’t that weird? I don’t think I’d ever met a shy person before I came to Wisteria.” She laughs and takes a swig of her drink, laughing again at Pearl’s next question. “How do you what? Charm a shy dude? Haven’t a fucking clue, love. If you were after a shag I could probably tell you how to make that work, but I have a feeling you’re a little more romantic than all that.”

She flags down a passing server and takes the pitcher of wine off their tray to refill both their glasses, “but sure, could have the two of you over at Harland’s place some time- he’d get a fucking kick out of me finally having mates round and all, win win.”

She sighed, relieved to hear that his behavior hadn’t just been because he’d wanted to get away from her. “I think it’s sweet,” Pearl replied softly, remembering how cute it was the way he kept glancing at the floor, the book, anywhere but her face. She giggled self-consciously, knowing that Freya was right. She was a romantic, swept away by tales of true love and grand gestures that she’d read about in her novels. 

In many ways, Pearl was more like the Seelie than her own clan. Her isolation growing up, combined with her fascination with the Seelie Court and her brother’s refusal to let her learn the defining skills of the Shark Clan, had turned her into some sort of in-between creature. She was neither strong nor skilled enough to participate in Shark rituals such as boating and fishing, but her social naivety made it difficult to navigate among Seelie society. 

In many cases, it was only her kind and reserved personality that helped her be accepted by the Seelie Court. They apparently did not see in her the same roughness and aggressiveness that often mark the Solitary fae, and so were intrigued by her oddities. It never crossed her mind that many city fae aimed to take advantage of her gullible and eager nature. 

Smile appearing once again as her friend agreed to a group excursion, Pearl bounced up and down on the balls of her feet. “That would be wonderful, thank you Freya!!” she exclaimed with unabashed excitement, already thinking of how she could learn to make iced buns and other sweets. Taking a small sip of her drink and then setting it down on the nearest surface, Pearl took one of Freya’s hands and pulled her gently towards the dance floor. “Come, come let’s dance!” she begged, riding high on the thought of seeing Edmund again (and the wine).