Thinking about different fairytale/storybook villains reactions to someone drinking a love potion and accidentally falling head over heels madly in love with them.
(Yes this prompt comes from Strange Magic)
Including; Inkubus, any incarnation of the Big Bad Wolf or the Phantom of the opera, Evil Queen's and Evil Princes, Wicked Witches (West, East, Ursula, Mim, etc), Evil Fairies, Hades, Severus Snape, Fenrir Greyback, Slenderman/Brothers, Captain Hook, Dracula, etc.
Also please imagine corrupt!Scarecrow and Glinda both side-eyeing the Tin Woodman when he c l e a r l y starts developing feelings for Una XD
Like, they're at a palace banquet or something that Dorothy demanded they have and Una's like 24 now, 'a woman' Tin calls her (staring at her in her beautiful green dress- one that Glinda of course designed so she would outshine many... but not herself). Glinda gives a butterfly-like giggle and nods. 'Yes, she's really becoming something, isn't she dear Tin Woodman?'. Then Tin just Leaves the two, no explanation, to approach Una and ask her clumsily (He slips on the polished floor and almost cuts her, but she just laughs it off of course) for a dance.
Glinda blinks, confused as to what exactly happened just then... before familiarity sets in. She's seen him act like that before.
With Dorothy.
And so has Scare, who's turning his head to look at Glinda with a raised eyebrow (or, the fabric behind his painted-on eyebrow was raised). '... a 'woman' ' he repeats.
'Oh no,' Glinda sighs. 'The Tin Woodman isn't... ' Scarecrow nods, a casual but disappointed air about him for his hopeless, odd old friend as he turns back to the pair dancing. Una's still a girl, in his eyes. She will always be just a girl. Just a silly, malleable, dumb little girl.
'Oh he's absolutely falling for Una.' He assures his... Glinda. Whatever Glinda is, to him. He's not sure; he's not sure he ever will be. Which is maddening-
'Good lord.' She rolls her eyes, all fake-warmth gone from her pretty ageless face. 'We're going to have to do something about that, arent we Scare?'
Now he sighs. He knows very well she means h e is going to have to do something about that. 'Yes, I guess.'
'Thank you. Because, as you know- we can't have her developing other alliances.' He nods. Yep, he knows. 'And the Tin Woodman would be- '
'Yes, I know. A disaster.' Oh how Scare hates it when people tell him things he already knows. What does he even have a brain for?? In order to stop the course of discussion, Scarecrow grabs a glass of bubbling green champagne he can't even drink off of a passing tray carried by a pretty servant girl (he thinks her name might be Astrid??), and watches her go through the crowd for a bit- from behind. ... when he realises that Glinda is glaring at him, he gives her shrug. 'Just enjoy the festivities, Glinda. I'll handle it.' 'Don't you worry that pretty little head.' He adds, a mischievous smirk spread across his stitched on lips, before he leaves her there.
As Scarecrow wonders off, waiting for the first oppertunity to leave this ridiuclous Dorpthy Party, he considers his new problem. He doesn't yet know what he's going to do to his old friend to halt these unfortunate feelings he has for silly young Una, but it may not be entirely pleasant.
Oh, dear.
Oh, well. It must be done, afterall~
... *deep breath* I have worked so hard on this drabble, that I don't want to just lose access to it if I answer privately. But I know Dorothy Must Die isn't a friendly book series and this kind of ship dynamic may be looked down upon. So I'm going to mark this as mature so it's not so easily accessible, even though there is Nothing risqué in this drabble! Anyone who reads this- I know Tin is a villain, I know this book series is controversial, and I know this ship dynamic might be more on the taboo side with the age difference. But please don't @ me 😅😅😅
But!!!! This this this this!!! Y'know this is part of the reason I had Tin and Una not develop a familial bond in the AU- that and because I legit can't see them interacting too much. But I need this!!! Una just seeing Tin as a heroic figure in Oz, while Tin is starting to see her as more than just Glindas Apprentice (also, can I just- point out how ballsy that is of him?? Bro is falling in love with a powerful and cruel witch's daughter, and he doesn't even consider asking for Glinda's blessing?? That heart really makes him blind, huh? XD)
But anyways- this dance but through Una's and Tin's perspective!! I must! Write! It! I tried to keep the time vague since I'm not quite sure if this is before or after Amy enters the picture. (Ohhhh imagine if this was the ball at the end of the first book though! Maybe Una gets captured?? 🤔🤔 oh would Tin not die since he's not by Dorothy's side?? Focused on keeping Una safe instead!? Or!!! Or maybe this is just when Amy Gumm lands in Oz, and Una and Tin can see her trailer flying through Oz from the balcony?? AHHHHHH!!!!)
~
Una's POV
"It's is my greatest honor to present; our beautiful and noble ruler, Princess Dorothy! The great and beloved witch of the north, Glinda! And her apprentice, Lady Una!
I had been quite nervous at first, when mother and I made our entrance into the ballroom right alongside Dorothy. Mother is on the rulers right, her slippers never touching the polished ground as normal, and I myself walking with practiced grace on Dorothy's left. The last thing I wanted was to accidentally anger our princess again, especially during a time of celebration (for what, I'm not entirely sure. It seemed mostly just for Dorothy's amusement... But everyone in the palace work very hard, so why not have a night of festivities to relax? ^^). But Glinda assured me earlier that I couldn't possibly outshine our leader ("Everyone's eyes will be on the lovely Dorothy Gale, my dear. You won't risk taking away any of her deserved attention~" she had said... I'll admit, a part of me couldn't help but feel the way she strung those words cut into me a little. Though I'm used to that from mother), so I just smiled warmly to the crowd and held my chin high, just like Glinda instructed, and descended the stairs into the ballroom.
However, despite keeping as much poise in my posture as possible, I couldn't help but scan the room; only my eyes gliding across everyones faces, hoping to spot a trace of him. I'm certain mother and Dorothy would allow us just one dance? Even if he's a servant, we're still friends! And he deserves the night off, too. However, the only familiar faces I found were father, the Scarecrow, my best friend since childhood, The Courageous Lion, and the general, Tin Woodman. When the munchkin servant announced our presence, the two inorganic men and giant feline had their eyes trained on all three of us.
Scare, of course, had his eyes on mother. How could he not when they love each other so much? (Not to mention how breathtaking she looked in her pink, glittering ballgown- the one with the skirts flowing over each other like flower petals, and a shorter tiara that showed off her magnificent red beehive bun. My father wasn't the only one who couldn't look away from her, and I have a feeling she knew.) Lion glanced between Dorothy and I, and I could feel my smile grow when he looked particularly happy to see me. A giggle even escaped me when he called out to me, "Una! Over here!" Gosh, it's been so long since our last visit. But Tin... That's odd. If I didn't know any better, I'd think he was looking at me with that awestruck expression... But that's just nonsense. Everyone knew the woodman only had eyes for Dorothy Gale... Even so, I know I'm not walking that close to her... (Be still, beating heart. You know those eyes are not for you.)
Speaking of the Princess, she had already run off to enjoy her party, or try some of the champagne while demanding a specific song from the band. I can't recall if I've heard it before, but I had to focus on keeping the grimace off my lips. Even if she was the ruler, it was always an astonishing sight to see how rude the witchslayer was. She couldn't be bothered to address her people first?? But I can't disappoint my mother (I can feel her eyes on the side of my head right now). She's worked hard to teach me to keep my cool, especially among guests. Ignoring the pang of guilt in my heart, I take in a deep breath before fixing my smile and turning back towards mother. She returned my smile, and I breathed a sigh of relief through my nose. I didn't upset her, "Come along, dear. We must greet our special guests, then you can go and enjoy the festivities tonight."
"Of course, mother."
I followed her floating form to where father, Lion, and Tin Woodman stood, approaching my straw parent first, of course. I looked towards Glinda first, and only when she nodded in approval of my silent request did I breach the distance between us. Even if we were in front of company, and he has been becoming... Less himself these past years, I still embraced him. Squeezing him a little like a pillow, the crunching sound of his stuffing had long been a comfort to me since the first time he picked me up, "Father! It's so good to see you out here."
"I was hoping you'd grow out of this phase..." I'm not sure if he could feel my grin weaken at that, but I forgot that small pang when his gloved hand patted the top of my head. It wasn't a reciprocated hug like I wanted, but with how standoffish he had become recently, this was better than I could hope. I lifted my head off of his chest to look into those realistic button eyes of his (sometimes, I can't help but wonder if they are actual eyes...), and noticed he was donning his blue suit tonight. The one he usually wore during court. It may not have been new or particularly fancy, but I like to think that that was a sign he truly cared ^^ "You're rather cheerful, tonight."
"Well, it is a night to celebrate." I resisted a giggle when he just raised a canvas brow down at me, unimpressed, "Celebrate a chance to relax. At least, that's how I'm choosing to take this party."
"A waste of resources, if you ask me. But whatever." The Scarecrow rolled his eyes before trying to pull away. I knew by now what that meant, and just let him go with a sigh. Now standing in front of him with my hands held together, he and I both glanced towards mother when we saw her sugary sweet smile from our peripheral. She always looked pleased with how close we were, "It gives you girls a chance to dress up, I gue-"
"Enough hogging her time, Scare! I need to see my cub!" It was far too easy for the humongous feline to throw his old friend to the ground just by simply bumping into him. Fortunately, father managed not to collapse to the ground and only stumbled with a huff. I almost reached out for him to help, but when Lion crouched down to me, I chose to place my hand on his big muzzle instead. I felt like my grin was going to split my face open with how happy I was to see him! "Una! I swear, you grow bigger every time I see you."
"I could say the same for you, Lion!" This time, I let out a hearty laugh before practically pouncing on him for a hug. I'll smack myself for losing my composure in front of so many people and mother later, but for now all I cared about was the warm, giant paw on my back and the gentle lick kiss Lion always dragged across my forehead whenever we saw each other (fortunately my up-do wasn't ruined. Mother spent a whole hour getting my look just right for tonight's banquet). I have heard frightened whispers in the halls of the palace, about my dearest friend. But whenever I saw him, all I could see was the fun-loving cat that would tell me stories while I rode his back, "You'll stay the whole night, right? You don't have to leave so soon?"
"Of course not, little cub." He couldn't purr like the occasional tiny cat I've found on the streets of this city, but he did give me a gentle forehead nudge while maintaining eye contact with me. My heart swelled with joy with his answer, "After all, someone has to make sure everyone is having fun. Isn't that right?"
Now... About those whispered rumors. I will admit times like this, I can see why they are passed along. Despite the light-hearted air, there was some kind of threat behind his voice... I understand Lion takes his role in Dorothy's court seriously, but that seems a bit much...
Still, we only see each other once in a blue moon! I don't want to dampen this moment with any of those dreadful doubts. So I just smile back and nod before pulling in closer for one more squeezing hug, "Of course. You are the life of any party, after all."
(Behind me, I swear I can hear my father and Lion share a snicker at what I just said. That's very odd; they usually disagree on so many things. Father with Lion, most especially...)
After some time enjoying Lions embrace for as long as possible, he pulled away claiming he had to 'scout around'. I noticed he was eyeing a servant with a tray of hors d'oeuvres, so I giggled. Clearly he just wanted a quick bite. I let him go, reassured I'll see him again later tonight, and turn my attention finally to the hero of Oz. The Tin Woodman.
I flushed and felt embarrassed; not only had he been watching me act so carefree, but I didn't even notice he had just been standing to the side, silently and paitently. He was definitely staring at me now, looking nervous with his tuxedo (how did he get that thing on? Wasn't it uncomfortable for a mechanical being like him?? Oh goodness, the poor man! He must be trying to look his best for Dorothy... Does she know?). Somehow, he managed to look taken aback despite his metal features. No doubt wondering how someone as ridiculous as I could possibly be related to the regal Glinda.
I cleared my throat and willed my blush to go away before plucking my skirts and curtsying in greeting, just as mother taught me to do, "Good evening, General Woodman." This time, my smile was mostly polite, and I nodded to him, even if I did have to crane my neck to look him in the eye. A lock of hair came undone from my braided bun, so I had to tuck that behind my ear before continuing. I'll fix it in just a moment, "You work so hard to keep us safe. I hope that tonight, you'll be able to enjoy your well-deserved break."
The tall man of tin made a sound, like he was a man of flesh and blood sucking in a breath, before nodding vigorously. I hope his collar won't get stuck in his joints and circuits, "Yes, yes. Of course, my dear. Thank you. May your evening be just as festive for you, a-as well."
Although his behavior was strange, and him calling me dear was even stranger, I knew better than to draw attention to it. I wouldn't want that if I was feeling as nervous as he clearly was. So I just offered one more nod before turning to my parents and curtsying to them, "I'll be on the dance floor, if any of you need me."
"Of course, my dear. You go and have your fun."
"Sure."
Well, at least neither of them seemed bothered by my lack of manners earlier- except maybe father, but it's hard to tell if that's his usual expression or his disappointed glare. But I can't bring myself to care too much, either way. Now that I can finally go off to find Benjamin. It took everything in my being to not to let my excitement show before I joined the crowd!
(However, despite looking for my friend, my thoughts kept going back to the Tin Woodman. Yes, he seemed rather anxious tonight. But come to think of it, he seems to be unfocused every time I see him lately. Whenever I accidentally bump into him while turning corners, or pass by him in the hallways. He's even been in the dining room with me, despite not needing to eat himself. I haven't been able to figure out why the general always seems to find me in the palace nor why I, supposedly, am making him so skittish... I haven't had the heart to admit to anyone how it makes my heart skip a beat. I can't. Tinman was no doubt just trying to do his job and ensure everyone's safety, not... No time to think about that now. It's time to enjoy the night!)
~
Tin's POV
Beautiful. That was all that I could hear in my head the second I witnessed Una descend the stairs into the ballroom, the skirts of her satin emerald dress billowing with each step she took like a rare ozian bird. It was like a mantra, though not a very great one; there was truly no way to describe the young witch or how she made the heart in my chest feel like it would pop out of its cavity whenever I saw her, but simply the word beautiful was practically an insult to her! She was far too lovely, too gorgeous, too enchanting, too precious, to simply be referred to as beautiful. By anyone, but most especially I. The way she had looked at me just now, how my name sounded coming from her soft lips and how big and shining her eyes were when looking at me?? I had just wanted to fall to my knees at the moment and greet her with a kiss. Or brush back the stray locks of hair from her face for her.
These feelings for Una were far different than what I had for Dorothy. And now, glancing towards our princess currently making a spectacle of herself on the dance floor and sending venomous glares towards anyone who approached, I wondered with a small frown how I ever fell under her spell when she came back. Una, darling Una, was so, so different than our ruler; even grown, her frame looked so delicate, I couldn't help but wonder how she doesn't get hurt when we collide in the halls (she needs someone to hold her and protect her. I need to protect her...). Her eyes shone with a light from her pure soul, a kind of light I can't even remember when I last saw (she has no idea how she was surrounded by the evils of Oz. It's both heartwarming and concerning. If she puts her trust in the wrong people...). Usually, she let her hair down, giving the illusion of being shrouded in sunlight. However, tonight, she decided to pile the pale yellow strands into a loose bun with two long locks framing her face and exposing her delicate neck and shoulders to the crowd (I could never kiss her or touch her there. I could kill her if I did so... But I'd be lying if I said I never dreamt of her in such a way when I was alone in my closet). And although she looked magical in whatever she wore, the dress she decided to wear tonight? The shimmering, emerald green ballgown with the lace bodice, decorated with strings of pearls that were sewn into the sheer ruffles around her shoulders? It could take any man's breath away.
Though, that was just her physicaly beauty. I had only seen her a select few times when she was younger, but by now it seemed that Glinda had moved Una into the palace. I didn't know what to expect from the girl the good witch had adopted, but I couldn't have imagined finding her chatting away with the servants around the castle- or at least those few who hadn't run from her. I never thought I would have found Una, the same girl Scarecrow had helped raise, trying to find a splint small enough for a wounded bird she had found in the gardens. And how could I ever forget when she found me in the halls, unable to control my tears after another failed attempt to win Dorothy's affections, and she wiped away every tear and consoled me while oiling my cheeks and eyelids? I'm certain that was the moment I truly realized who was the one for me.
Granted, it took some time for her to be brought into this world, but Oz was always strange in it's ways. Perhaps I wasn't meant to be with my lovely Una until after I could properly protect her? Maybe I needed the heart Glinda gave me to properly love the little witch. But it doesn't matter now. I may be Queen Dorothy's general, but my heart was never meant to be hers, clearly...
My thoughts were interrupted, however, when I overheard Scare and Glinda talking to each other. About Una. I had forgotten I was just standing here, but how was I to remember myself when my spring blossom was just mere feet away? But what I heard Scare mutter managed to grasp my attention, "... And she still acts like a silly girl."
My jaw twitched at that, and I had to fight the urge to whirl in on my old friend. I didn't want to upset Una by fighting with the one she considered a father, but how could he possibly say that about her!? She may not be his child by blood, but even a blind oaf could see how much she treasures him. He's not even grateful to have someone as kind as her in his life. How could he be so disrespectful towards her???
"A woman." I corrected, feeling the pair look up towards me. But I couldn't tear my gaze away from Una. Almost as soon as I felt that flash of anger, I felt it dissipate as I continued to watch my love. She was slowly disappearing into the crowd, clearly looking for a dance partner.
...
'Perhaps... No, Dorothy never wanted to dance with me... But Una isn't Dorothy, is she? A treasure such as her shouldn't be left alone on the dance floor, moreover.'
The rest of the world disappeared from my focus as I nodded to myself, trying to calm my racing heart and gather my courage. Una isn't Dorothy. Una isn't Dorothy. I should try to ask her for a dance...
'But what if she says no? No! No. No thinking those thoughts! I can't cower away, now...'
I took in a deep breath despite not needing to, and decided. It was now or never. Everyone on the floor cleared a path for me, fortunately, allowing me to reach my starlight easier. Of course, with how observant she was, she noticed the guests around us disperse and turned towards me. Her beautiful eyes of polished silver widened when she saw who it was, and she quickly curtsied like she had a moment ago, "O-Oh! Tin Woodman. How may I help you?"
Oh Oz, her voice. It wasn't like Glinda's that was like a chiming bell. Una's voice sounded like warm and sweet honey. It made me feel weak in the knees instantly- wait, why was I still standing?? Why had I let Una curtsy to me like she was a maid?! I should be the one bowing to her greatness!!! Of course, this mistake had to be rectified, and I quickly got down on one knee for her, "Un-"
In a second, I wasn't looking into my loves' eyes. Instead, I had slipped on my knee and was about to collide into the floor! In front of Una! How could I be so clumsy!? She'll never want to dance with me now.
However, the resounding crash never came, as I felt two hands touch my arm, followed by pulsating, soothing energy. I knew without even looking up that it was my true love. I opened my jaw to beg for forgiveness and promise to never fall on her again, but before I could string the words together, Una had already started to pull me back up onto my feet with her magic. Her silver eyes wide in an expression I hadn't received in years; concern, "Oh, General Woodman! Are you alright?"
"I... I..." I may be made of metal, but right now, it I felt like my throat was closing up like I was a full blooded man again. All I could do was nod and watch her as she tilted her head to the side, and I realized I had just been gawking slackjawed at her this whole time. It felt like steam was ready to burst through my funnel hat as I cleared my throat into my free hand, "Una, there's no need for formalities between us. We've known each other for so long, after all."
I noticed a small smile spread along her lovely lips. Great Oz, just gazing upon her made me feel weak, but just then, I heard what had to be the most heavenly sound in any world; a twinkling, light-hearted laugh from the little witch herself with no traces of mockery, "Well, Tin, you can't be falling for me. We don't want you to hurt yourself now."
Oh, how my heart lurched and pounded even harder in my breast plate. 'If only you knew how true that little pun was, my darling sunlight.' I couldn't tell if it was my nerves or if Una's aura was that contagious, but I started to chuckle alongside her (how long had it been since I laughed like this?... I don't remember), "Right, of course, Una."
"Hehe, sorry I couldn't help myself. I guess I get it from father." The woman sighed out her last ringing laugh before looking up into my eyes, "Was there something you needed, Tin?"
At that moment, I felt very fidgety and unsure of myself at that moment; was my suit just right? Did the rose I pick out start to wilt? Were my joints oiled just right?? If I was still flesh, I knew I would have felt my mouth dry up at that moment. But it wasn't the same anxiety I felt with Dorothy; the warmth and care radiating from my dandelion gave me a sense of hope. Maybe, just maybe... "Yes, actually. Una, I..." I reached for her delicate hand instinctively, but I forced myself back. It was too risky right now, "Would you give me the honor of your first dance, tonight?"
I couldn't believe I was able to get the words out. It just came to me far easier than it ever did with Dorothy (surely that must be more proof that Una and I are meant to be!). Her big, beautiful eyes widening, however, made my heart tighten. Was I mistaken? Was I too hasty?? Despite my worries, though, I was frozen in place. I wanted to say something- anything that could possibly soften the inevitable. My mind raced at the speed of light waiting for Una's answer, that I almost missed it when she spoke, it was both a relief and shock to my system, "Woodm- Er, Tin. You truly want to dance with me? What about Princess Dorothy?"
'That... That wasn't an exact no. Could it really be?...'
I couldn't mince words now. Not if I truly did have a chance. This time, I carefully extended my hand to her- which I only just now noticed how huge it was compared to hers (I always knew how sharp and dangerous my hands were, especially to her. But I suppose it never really sunk in until now). I've longed to hold her for so long, but I didn't want to cut her perfect skin either, so I waited to see how she would proceed. I can't fail now! "No, Una. If you'll have me, I wish to spend the night with you."
It was now or never. My jaw squeaked ever so slightly as I clenched it- I thought I oiled all my joints perfectly before tonight! Oh, Oz. I pray she didn't hear that. I tried not to think of it as I awaited the answer that would break my heart or make it soar. The young witch seemed puzzled at first (she didn't doubt my truthfulness, did she? Surely she knew anyone would be blessed to be within her presence, right? Did someone convince my songbird otherwise?! I won't let that stand!), her eyes wide as she glanced down to my sharp outstretched hand and then up to my eyes. She was one of the few people in this world who would dare look me in the eye anymore, and my knees felt ready to buckle under her gaze.
It felt like an eternity before her glossed lips tilted up in a timid smile. That alone made my adoration of her multiply- I had no idea that was possible, yet here we are. But when she raised her gentle hand, using her magic to form a shimmering, opal shield around the digits before resting them on my knives, My jaw let out a terrible noise when it dropped. And her confirmation sent my heart beating harder and faster than it ever had before, "It would be my honor to spend the evening with you, Tin."
'This- This is real! Really real! Una, lovely, pure sunlight Una, wanted to spend the evening with me!? Keep calm. Keep calm!'
I'd be a liar if I said I had planned this far ahead. Dorothy never allowed me this close, and although Una isn't my first love, I felt like a young and inexperienced boy stumbling over his every move. It took everything in me to keep the steam from blowing out of my top as I shakily nodded. "Th-The honor is all mine, Una." I couldn't stop from glancing to her hand in worry. I so desperately wished to enclose it in my own, but... I would never forgive myself if I cut my beloved. Such a sin would deserve only the worst of punishments.
She seemed to have read my mind though, "It's alright." Her melodious voice reached through the fog in my mind, snapping my attention back to her. I could now see the slight pink on her cheeks, making me gasp. That was... Was she?- "Mother taught me this spell; nothing will break through it."
As if to prove her point, Una squeezed my index finger, or rather blade, as hard as she could. It gave me a heart attack and instinctively I tried to pull my limb away from her, "Wait! My darling!-" All of a sudden, she let go of my hand. As she assured, there wasn't a drop of blood or a stray slice of skin to fetter her beautiful skin.
But it was her expression now that made me freeze. Once more, her silver eyes were blown so wide, and her mouth was parted in shock whilst she stared up at me. It was only then when I realized what left my lips, and I wanted to slap myself right then and there. It was the truth, she was my darling. But so soon!? After she had just blessed me!? That would startle any woman! I have to salvage this! "Forgive me, Lady Una, I never meant to offend-"
"No no no! Don't- Don't worry." The words died in my voice box once she took my blades in both of her hands- both of them now protected with her magic. My hands were trembling, but they steadied themselves when I was able to see there was no offense or disgust behind her expression or voice. In fact, all I could see in her eyes was glimmering tenderness (and... Was that hope? Could it be??), "I'm not offended. Truly. It's... Lovely of you, to say about me."
... Oh stars of Oz, are my prayers finally coming true? Did Una feel a connection between us?? We truly were destined to be???
I blinked, and all of a sudden I was aware of where we were again. I could sense all if the unnerved eyes on eyes in the middle of the ballroom, but Una didn't seem aware of it. Or at least she ignored them. With a newfound hope I never thought I would feel, I straightened myself up and smiled down to my turtledove. How my heart hadn't melted from my chest cavity, I had no clue. But it was high time I give her the night she deserved, "Well... My darling Una," (No. No I was not mistaken. The adorable little noise that escaped her when I called her that again couldn't just be a coincidence. All I want is to pick up my precious lily and cradle her to my heart.) "The band is playing, and the guests are merry. I would be more than happy to have this dance with you."
"As would I, Tin." Her genuine smile? The love in her eyes? Have I died and been delivered to heaven??
She held far more grace than a swan with just interlocking her fingers with my own, and then guiding my other hand to rest on her waist. It had been far too long since I felt the warmth of another in my hands that didn't include bloodshed, and to already have the pleasure to hold her waist could have been enough to incapacitate any man, organic or otherwise like me. Yes, this was just how I was supposed to hold her in a dance, but I knew that this would haunt my mind long into the night. And many nights after this party. She couldn't reach my shoulder unfortunately, but I straightened my arm as best as could; offering her my forearm to grasp instead. Hopefully this won't be too awkward.
And without another word, I led my treasured goddess into a waltz, following the beat of the music and ignoring how everyone scrambled away from us.
(Out of the corner of my eye, however, I see Glinda and Scare supposedly in conversation while looking our way, before they both headed in opposite directions. Glenda gliding through the crowd, and Scare blinking away abd out of the ballroom. It may not seem like anything to worry about to the untrained eye, but I knew my old ally well. There was very little chance that their conversation while watching us was mere coincidence...)
~
RAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHH OMG!!!!!! I finally finished it! I cant believe it! 😭😭😭😭😭😭 I really hope this was worth the wait! (I wanted this to end with Una and Tin going out to the balcony just like Beauty and the Beast, maybe sharing a spur of the moment kiss, but I ran out of paitence 😅)
Also- Idk if you remember, but I was originally planning on Una having a crush on a servant boy named Benjamin... But as you see, I changed my mind. I couldn't resist Una developing a crush on Tin. And Tin, having had a relationship before and a hopeless romantic, seeing that in her eyes 👀
As for Scarecrow and Glinda... I know they're so cruel, but I hope to the writing gods that they don't hurt either Una or Tin! 😭😭😭😭😭 (but they better be prepared. Tinman seeing Una isn't at all opposed to him like Dorothy is has given the general more strength than anyone may realize 🫢)
Plot: Scarecrow tries to convince you he doesnt give a damn about you.
"Now you've made your choice. And you're going to regret it. Forever. And all you'll have... is an empty heart. And a chipped cup." - Belle, Once Upon A Time
Warnings: Angst. Glinda.
Glinda was making him do this, you knew it. But it didn't make it hurt any less.
You don't even know if she wants him. Maybe she just doesnt like her favourite little tool to have his attention anywhere but on her. Her plans. Or who knows? Maybe she is in love with him and she just has an extremely weird way of showing it, but either way- you k n o w that you mean more to him then his turned back is making you feel right now. And that just makes it worse.
"... don't do this." You whisper. Small, timid, afraid. You half hope he'll stop this at the sound of the tremor in your voice, turn around and wrap you up in his long limbs and a tight hug. Like he would have before Glinda stuffed her poisonous words down his canvas throat.
... But he doesnt, of course; he's different now.
Scarecrow doesnt look at you at all, just continues fiddling with a dubious looking gadget at his work bench. Theirs an air of disconnect in his voice when he talks, like he doesn't care and quite frankly he's annoyed that you're bothering him with this. "You know I never had a heart, like our dear old friend Nick. I don't even know how you convinced yourself that I cared this long. Foolish, even for you."
He always had it in him; the potential to be this. The calculated, cruel curiosity that meant nothing else mattered until he got his answer. The lack of empathy when the scenario became his research or their lives. But despite that, Scarecrow was good. He was so good; thats why you loved him. There was no heart in that stuffed chest, no, but he knew who he was and what was right and who mattered to him. What was important. He knew.
He was wonderful. Always knew just what to do when you were in trouble or lost or sad.
But then he let Glinda manipulate him, like a brainless idiot.
She made him think only she saw the greatness in him, and that his kindness held him back. And you saw what he did to that flying monkey- she turned him into a monster.
Tears fill up your eyes at his nasty, scathing words. "You're such a liar. You care about me, and you know it. I'm the fool?? You're letting Glinda turn you into a plaything."
At that he drops the thing he was working on and abruptly turns around, anger in the movement that makes you flinch; no longer disinterested, at least. His ego hurt. But he doesnt lash out; he reaches back and grips the bench so tightly in his glove hands that you hear the wood creak under his strength. "... watch what you say to me, Y/N. I'm doing you a favour." His words are steady, but in a way thats terrifying. Like he's only just controlling himself. And there's a knew darkness in his button eyes that you cant explain, that makes you feel cold and alone just looking at him. He raises his head to look at you and you're encompassed by that feeling; trapped. Those eyes suck you in like a black hole, almost like he's trying to keep a part of you here. With him. Stolen away and kept secret. "You were an experiment that has thoroughly run its course. I should dismantle your body and use you for something else now, something improved, but I'm allowing you to leave here with all your limbs, organs, bones, and skin. So be grateful to me, hm?" He turns away from you again, with a shrug. And you should feel relieved to not have him looking at you like that any longer, to not have that gaze laving all over you, but you're trembling. That was the last he would look at you.
That air of disconnect returns to his voice. "And get out."
... one last silent moment passes you by, just the two of you alone, before you take in a shaky breath and you force your eyes to become hard on his back. He will not hear you cry over him- not this version of him. Not this monster he is now. "... fine. You've made your choice."
"Gee thanks for your approval. Didnt I say get out?"
"I would have loved you despite what you've become. I would've- well, it doesnt matter." Turning away and heading for the door, you finally allow heartbreak to turn your frustration to hatred. "Don't come crawling back to me when you regret this."
"Oh, no fear of that."
"For your sake I hope not."
~
The door to his new laboratory slams closed so hard that it shakes, and Scarecrow is finally, blissfully, alone. To his thoughts, and his inventions, and his books. No more distractions, no more friends, no more you. Well, there's Dorothy, the the Tinman, and the Lion. But he can manipulate his old friends easily enough, luckily they aren't as bright as you are. And of course, Glinda has her eyes and ears everywhere, even here in his private chamber, but he's glad she saw that. She was supposed to. He'll never see you again, he expects, and thats how he protects you from her.
Glinda was never going to allow you peace as long as you remained near to him. Ideally, he's certain, she would have had him dissect you, but that would be a waste, and the Scarecrow was not wasteful. He would not waste you.
... an innocent little soap bubble wanders silently into the room then, behind him. Inconspicuous, despite the shimmering pink tint. The only reason that Scarecrow notices at all is because he was expecting her.
The bubble gives a little pop!, and there in all her seductive glory appears Glinda the good witch. "Well done, my Scarecrow~ "
"Pleased, Glinda?"
"Oh, I wouldn't say that. The poor girl looked heartbroken when she left. Such a shame~ " He could hear the pout on her glittery pink lips right there in her voice, but Scarecrow is smart. And he doesnt allow her to know how badly he would like to ring her pretty neck for it. "I do think you did the right thing, though. Don't you?"
"Mhm." Hopefully she takes his disinterest as a lack of attention paid- he's extremely busy with this gadget for the Woodman, after all. "She was a distraction. Dangerously close to wasting my valuable time."
"I agree, Scarecrow, I do, but I wonder... " The witch wonders closer to him, so close he could feel her chest brushing against his back and her damp breath on his canvas skin. She peers over his shoulder, her lips near to his ear. This should make him dizzy. The close proximity, the scent of her flowery perfume, the touch of her breasts. But she was not Y/N. However, this is an extremely dangerous thought to have. "I do wonder,.. why you didn't use her body for your research, my dear. I expect that would have been lovely and convenient, don't you?"
With a frustrated sigh of annoyance, Scarecrow rolls his button eyes upwards to the ceiling. "The girl was defective. I couldn't have used her."
"Hm. She looked perfectly fine, to me."
"Not all defects you can see on the outside, Glinda." Like your reprehensible personality, you old witch.
Apparently its the Scarecrows lucky day, because whether she believes him or not, Glinda allows it. She wanders away from his body again, allowing him to relax again and hope she leaves. She never was all that interested in him, after she got what she wanted. "... well thats a shame."
Plot: You get jealous of how much Scare likes another Oz creature, a life sized living doll made out of a quilt, Patches. And Scare reminds you how much he appreciates you, over anyone else.
Warnings: Sexual references/intentions.
While the others all talked together, regaling Dorothy with their weeks adventures, you pushed around the food on your plate instead of eating it; dutifully separating different coloured foods into piles. Yellow, green, blue, red, purple. You didn't want to talk.
Not that anyone would care if you did, you think, sourly. Like a silly immature girl. Even though you haven't been one of those for a long time; you definitely felt like one again, with the Scarecrow's attentions all over the Patchwork girl instead of you. Flesh and blood you.
He gives a chuckle at something she said, and you bitterly roll your eyes. Ha ha ha. Oh she is so witty.
Only the Tin Woodman notices your mood from across the table. He tilts his head, creating a high metallic squealing sound, but doesn't say anything. You're very glad for it, for you would have absolutely nothing kind to respond with.
When dinner finally ends, and Dorothy gives you all her permission to return for the evening, you get up as fast as you can. So fast you jostle the table and finally arouse the Scarecrow's attention in the seat beside yours. He makes a face at you, scrunching his stitched-mouth up and the canvas above his button-eyes down, looking irritated. But You're gone from the dining room before he can say anything.
~
"... what the hell has gotten into her?" He asks himself, turning back towards the table and muttering, entirely oblivious. "Organic people are so emotional." Raising up to his feet at the same time as the Tin Woodman, and the Patches. He helps Patches to manoeuvre an escape from her bulky heavy chair, a gentleman's hand enclosed around hers, and the Woodman shakes his head. There's almost a smirk on the old metal man's face.
"Hm. Who's to say."
The Scarecrow zero's in on his old friend, turning his head from the retreating behind of the Patchwork girl. There's a vexed tone in his voice, but also arrogance. Always arrogance. "Oh- you think you have insight regarding my Y/N. This should be good; go on."
Instead of just telling him, the Tin Woodman carefully arranges his toolbox hands in front of him. Looks out in the direction that Patches disappeared. "... I'm pleased to see you so engrossed in another person. Miss Patches has become a great friend for you these past few days. You've barely looked at anyone else since she arrived,.. Well, they say that socialisation is good for you."
Scarecrow never wished he could roll his eyes more then he did right then. Or, by the day's standards at least. He wished for this whenever anyone less intelligent then him spoke; And unfortunately that was everyone, all of the damn time. "Yes. So?? She's an interesting creature; much like myself. Don't avoid the question."
"For the smartest man in all of Oz you really are dense when it comes to matters regarding the heart."
"Thats a bold statement to make, Nick." The Scarecrow only ever called the Woodman by his old name these days when he was very very serious. He hoped the Woodman would get the point, as dull as he can be. No one calls him dense- not even him. Not the Lion, not Dorothy, not anyone. Well, Y/N maybe but only because she's cute when she's upset with him; and he cant take it seriously coming from a pretty little nitwit like her anyway.
The Woodman gives a great sigh. "What I'm trying to convey, dear friend, is that in your intrigue with Miss Patches, you've managed to neglect Y/N. Unintentionally, perhaps, but how do you suppose she should be feeling about it? All this time you've lavished all your attention on her and then, suddenly, you've found someone new. And anyone can see, you surely are far better suited to our lovely Miss Patches then to a complicated organic girl like Y/N, anyway." The Tin Woodman could sense the irritation reaching its peak in the old Scarecrow, but he has no reason to fear the straw man. He could easily disable him with a slice of one of his fingers. Just because the Scarecrow gave them to him didn't mean they couldn't be used against him; one day he would learn that and maybe stop being so arrogant. "... in shorter less eloquent terms; well, she's jealous."
"... really?" The doctor hums to himself, retreating into his thoughts. "Is that so?"
"If I didn't know any better I'd say you were filled with glee at the idea."
"... I better go find her." At a look of exasperation from the Tin Woodman's shiny metal face, the Scarecrow makes a veiled attempt, at least, to cover his excitement with concern. "-to reassure her, of course. And Chopper? One last thing." The Tin Woodman had been shaking his head and turning, making a move to leave he room, but he pauses when his old friend asks for him; Raises a metal brow. The Scarecrow's voice has gone cold. "Don't concern yourself with Y/N in the future. I will manage her."
A sigh. "... Of course, Scarecrow."
~
You're still boiling with frustration alone in your room later. Dorothy asked you to visit the drawing room with her, but you were in such an unpleasant mood she didn't even push you. Just said 'well fuck, okay then' and left to find more amiable entertainment. Thank god. You couldn't have dealt with Dorothy tonight if you wanted to.
When suddenly you turn around and Scare is directly behind you hanging over you with his lanky form and his blue suit and his beady button eyes. "-jesus christ Scarecrow, what the hell are you doing?"
"My dear," His glove-hands are on your hips before you know it, drawing you towards him even after you push his straw-filled, button-up chest.
"Get off me, asshole- "
"You don't really believe I would prefer Miss Patches to you? Do you?" The tone in his voice is patronising, and you hate it. He knows exactly how you're feeling and he loves it. "Because that,.. " He begins, leaning into your neck, drawing his stitched lips softly up the line of your throat; it feels so nice when he touches you gently that you cant help raising your chin for him and closing your eyes. Despite yourself. "... would be... " His stitches find your lips, press against your mouth for a moment in a strange kiss you're used to. "incredibly... stupid."
"Ugh- " You immediately try to pull away again, but his grip has always surprised. He's a lot stronger then he looks; its terrifying, but you manage to level your voice. "... Let me go."
"Not likely." He sighs, releasing your waist with one hand so he can trace your face. Twirl your hair around his stuffed fingers. Get lost in all the textures that are you.
... You narrow your eyes. "What are you even doing here. I thought you were busy. Patches just as oh so many interesting, clever things to say."
"Hm." Scarecrow ignores your obvious sarcasm, it is a very low form of intelligence and only done well by himself, and draws his fingertips down the line of your throat, over your chest towards the edge of your shirt. Slips underneath, feeling your bare skin. "As true as that may be, she's not as warm as you."
"She's a quilt." You snap, deadpanned and determined to argue with him. Even with his hand exploring under your shirt, turning your head foggy.
He ignores you. Again. "Not as receptive." He reaches your chest, palming a breast; a cruel squeeze that makes you gasp, parting your lips enough that he can seal his mouth to yours again and and suck your warm tongue into his canvas mouth. It forces a squawk out of you, still not used to the inhuman feel or taste of his straw-filled mouth. But when he pulls back, your mouth is still open to him. "... Not as sweet."
"That makes two of you." You whisper, mouth dry from that kiss.
Giving you a smirk, he presses a gloved thumb to your plush bottom lip; slipping the tip of it into your mouth. "... whatever."
"Asshole."
"Minx."
"Minx!? Oh, you- " You go to hit him, but he grabs your hand and leans in again, this time filling your wet human mouth with his stiff felt tongue. This time you completely melt into his kiss, your whole body feeling electric with him. Your hands draw up around his neck, pulling his body in closer against you while he guides your back into the closest wall so you can feel the stuffing he recently packed into his crotch. The thick filling and the way Scare touched you makes the place between your thighs throb.
He kisses you for a drawn out couple of minutes, only allowing you to breathe when he calculates you really need to. And only giving you just enough so you don't pass out. The force of the kisses, his mouth against yours, presses your head back against the wall behind you. He's acting like he needs you.
Needs you.
By the time he finally Scare releases your buzzing lips, but not your waist pinned to the wall, you belong to him again. "... have we made up? Hm?"
"... You promise you prefer me?"
"Unfortunately, yes."
"Unfortunately??"
"Patches would definitely be less difficult with me. Listen to me, more."
A smirk niggles at the corners of your lips. "... then yes."
"Good, because I want to fuck you now." The smirk disappears, and your eyes widen. You know he doesnt mean fuck you, because truly he cant. He means watch you unravel. He loves that; seeing you so brainless and without fight. "... face the wall, Y/N."
DMD!Scarecrow acting like a good mentor for you when you crash-land in Oz, just like he did with Dorothy all those years ago; pretending to be just the person he was back then and helping you on your adventure to get back home. Being the Mad Hatter to your Alice.
But secretly the entire time, he's sabotaging you because he wants you to stay with him. Sending you both in the wrong direction (*face palm* oh silly me. You know the old straw brain isn't as sharp as it used to be 😅 we're several fields away from where we should be), giving you the wrong advice (OH, my bad. I FORGOT that the hungry tiger roams these parts 😕 Oopsie daisy? Heheh 😅 Good thing he stopped himself, right?? Aaaanyway- ), etc.
When you somehow, finally get to the Wizard (who's, miraculously, willing to help you), Scare is actually baffled how this happened and that just makes him even MORE mad ontop of the fact that you're getting away. His pride is hurt and you could escape??? Jesus fucking christ.
... but still. He keeps the act up. Maybe you'll choose to stick around, right? He's been so sweet. Such a good friend. Kept you fed and kept your fragile little organic body safe-- surely you'll w a n t to stay with him, right?? Yes. That's the only thing that makes sense.
So just as you're about to step into the hot air balloon with that crackpot 'wizard', Scare jumps up to you, takes your hands softly in his and tilts his head oh-so-cutely. "You could stay, you know. ... with me." A wonky grin on his stitched-mouth.
When you giggle gently, tears in your eyes, and shale your head; his non-existent heart drops. That's the last straw. "I would love to... but I can't. You understand, don't you?? My lovely friend ^^ "
Scare can't answer. His mind is absolutely boggled. Jumbled up. And he's pissed. Off. His fingers are tightening around yours, when the Wizard taps your shoulder. "Child, of course he does. Now come on- "
"The HELL I do." Scare growls, yanking you away from the hot air balloon just as the Wizard cuts the ropes tying it to the ground. The damn thing pf course starts flying away without you, history repeating itself, but Scarecrow can't acknowledge the symmetry while rage boils inside him and your little hand wriggles in his hold. Trying to get away.
But fuck that.
He knows he's scaring you with this jarring change in his demenour but he doesnt care. He put so much work into being a good friend to you. How did that not work?? What- is he supposed to do all that for you and just let you GO?? No. A thank you is not good enough. You have to stay. You have to be grateful.
Imagine one (or all 3) of the Oz Trio waiting for you to come back.
*Dorothy Must Die!Scarecrow, Tin Woodman and Lion (Set during the novellas).
The Scarecrow's pissed at himself for letting you go and now he spends his days thinking of plans to keep you here if you ever came back. Now he has a room for you with barred windows and bolted doors, and he's planned what he would say to you, but he's also thinking well its been 60 years and human lives are frustratingly short. Bitterness creeps into his mind and all he can think is well something terrible better have happened to you, for you to make him wait this long.
The Tin Woodman cant bring himself to move from where you left him. He wants to be right where you left him when you return, so you can find him- because he trusts you. He knows you'll come back. You have to, because what else can he do but be yours? He promised. His loyalty is his downfall because sooner or later, it rains. And its been many years since the first time this happened but once again he's all alone, helpless, and aching.
The Lion slinks off to his forest. He tries to live his life as if he weren't thinking of you; missing you. He does his duties as King of the Beasts, he enjoys his hunts, he meets with his friends and he's as joyful as he can be with them. He's even able to forget you sometimes... but times goes on and you're still not back like he thought you'd be, and he's starting to feel stupid. Humans don't have what an animal has, they don't have the same loyalty. He did this to himself. And he's mad, but... a traitorous part of him is still waiting.
This is a version of the The Wizard of Oz's Scarecrow from Danielle Paige's Dorothy Must Die series, in which he becomes a crafty, Frankensteinian mad scientist while the Tin Man is a love sick nightmare and the 'Cowardly' Lion is a blood thirsty monster. I definitely recommend checking it out if you like TWoOz (Including the book and the sequel movie).
Sitting on the Scarecrow's work bench with your wrist in his grasp, trying to ignore the sting that came from stitches (if anyone in Oz new how to sew, it was him), you felt just... the most miserable you've ever felt. Completely hurt. And grim.
"... he's never going to love me back, is he?" You ask rhetorically, for you already know the answer.
The Scarecrow, sitting in a wooden chair focused on your cut forearm (An accident the Tin Man left behind, reacting startled when you attempted to help him up off the ground where Queen Dorothy shoved him. She'd said whoops, but only he believed she didn't actually mean to do it. He was going for her delicate hand, after all), 'tuts'. "No, he he isn't."
You sigh. "I didn't really need an answer."
"Mhm, I know."
Here you look down and settle the glorified canvas bag with a frustrated, annoyed, cross look for his complete lack of empathy, and he just shrugs. Soulless button eyes as black as coal and blank as oblivion looking back at you. "Sorry. Was that rude?"
... he knows perfectly well that he's rude, so you just look away again; showing him a cold shoulder.
All the brains in the world wouldn't get him back what he's lost- his heart. It seemed they all lost something that one of the others coveted when they went to see that wizard. He gained the brain he so desired but he used to be kind, you hear. And now he's not. Contrary-wise, the Tin man got his heart but he seems... to have lost all courage. He's a punching bag for his love. And the Lion?? You hear he's courageous and formidable but is he smart enough to use that for good? You assume the answer to that is a no, considering the state of things here in Oz...
Below you the Scarecrow sighs, and flicks your hand onto your lap; finished. "I hope that's the last slice I stitch up for you this week. Learn to stop reaching for that tin for brains love struck puppy, Y/N. Lose enough blood from those knives he has for fingers these days, and you won't be so easy to fix." As he talks he gets up and shows his back to you, heading to flip through some of his current research (whatever horrible frankensteinian mockery of science his head has been full of recently. You shudder to think what it could be. You noticed syringes lying about... and you'd rather not ask.). Only talking to you absent-mindedly.
... he, of all Oz's people, knows its not that easy. You're in love with the Tin Man, and you'll never stop trying to help him. Ideally you'd make him see that Dorothy just hurts him... but you had to stop, that. It just broke your heart, watching him be so blind. So instead you'll help him up when he falls, you'll carry a can of heavy oil that hurts your hands all day just in case he needs it, you'll repeat his orders to his armies until tour voice goes hoarse-- and as his second in command, you have plenty of oppertunity to do all of this, hence why you're here being attended to by the Scarecrow so often. You don't have a choice in any of it though; you're in love. You suffer through it all, for love.
Even if that love is just a heavy ache in your chest that gets worse whenever you see him with her. You hate her so much; Dorothy. She ruined this land, and she ruined Tin.
And you hate that the Scarecrow always acts like you can just turn all this off. Like you're doing this to yourself on purpose. (Why would you do that??)
Instead of having that fight with him (again) though, you huff and hop off the bench. "Thank you for the stitches- I'm going back to work."
"Mhm, yeah, have fun with that."
With an eye roll, holding your wrist and rolling a thumb over the tight and precise, surgical stitches, you turn to leave the dank rooms that Scarecrow calls his. They're less like bed chambers and more like a basement laboratory, and you rather to spend as little time as possible here.
But before you can get too far, you're surprised to be grabbed by rough feeling gloves and drawn backwards. "Gah!- "
The Scarecrows fingers dig into an older wound, from earlier in the week, but he doesn't seem to care. "Wait a minute."
Didn't he turn away from you?? "No, I'm busy. I have work to do." You snap stubbornly, trying to slip your arm away from him but the Scarecrow is misleadingly strong.
"Don't care. Anyway- " He's tall, though not as tall as the Tin Man and certainly not as tall as he was strung up in the corn fields, but you still have to bend your neck back to see his disconcerting, still face. "Let me give you some advice- after all, I am the smartest being in all of Oz." He's serious, but there's always a twinge of smug pride when he works that into a conversation.
Sighing, you stop fighting him and stand still. Your blood is seeping out from the stitches he sewed into your skin earlier in the week and into his own 'skin', the fabric keeping his stuffings on the inside, but you just Stop. And listen. The sooner he gets done talking, gets finished making whatever point he was set on, the sooner that you can go clean yourself up. "... what?"
"Forget old Tin."
Immediately your jaw drops. "What are you talking about???"
"It's never going to happen with that old watering can. It's illogical for you to harbour feelings for him."
"I know it's not logical, but- "
The Scarecrow is uninterested in your 'but' evidently, because he cuts you off pointedly and goes on. "You need to set your sights on someone more attainable for you." He speaks carefully ans sternly, as if speaking to a very dumb child. "Y/N, you're a very... appealing, young lady. I have the utmost faith that you can find someone willing to have you."
... you do not like the sound of the Scarecrow complimenting you. He sounds sinister; you feel the hair on the back of your neck stand up. "-Um, yes, well-- I'll keep that in mind. Thank you- "
He sighs, and you get the feeling by the irritated tone in his voice that if he could- he'd roll his eyes at you. "You're dimmer then a box of broken bulbs." At that you open your mouth immediately in outrage to curse at him- but he raises a cloth finger and silences you before you've even said anything nasty. "What I'm saying, is- maybe you should be setting your sights on someone who sees you. Sees you, and recognises the wonderful fascinating creature that you are. The Woodman, charming as he may be," Something in Scare's tone suggests that he himself doesn't see it, that he rather thinks that Tin is a ridiculous fool, but he's acknowledging Tin's charms for your sake anyway. "... doesn't notice. Will never, notice."
-and there's the Scarecrow's blunt honesty again that you dont particularly like. Your heart plummets, though you know its only the truth."... that sounds good and simple, Scarecrow, but... " Finally, you slip your arm away from him. "I don't know anyone who thinks that of me." You shrug, then walk off again.
...
...
...
Just as you're reaching for the door, you're grabbed and thrust against the nearest smoke damaged wall. The Scarecrow's canvas, stitched face rears in close to yours- the yellow straw hair that sticks out from under his hat almost scratching your forehead. He sighs deeply, feigning a controlled exterior when you can feel how frustrated and angry he is in how tight he has you pinned to the wall. "... me, Y/N. I'm talking about me.
"... Now listen. You're going to forget about dumb old Woody, and focus on me for a change. Do you comprehend that??"
DMD!Scarecrow x Maid!Reader (x DMD!Tin Woodman) || Oneshot
Plot: The Scarecrow likes you; he really does. He thinks that you're cute, and just dumb enough to fall for him if he plays his cards right.
... but f u c k, you're sometimes just t o o dumb to handle. And he cant control himself.
But thats his mistake to fix. His.
Not that bleeding heart of a tin can.
Warnings: Possessive manipulative Scarecrow + Scarecrow yells at you and shakes you. Sexual thoughts. Unedited.
"Fuck!" The Scarecrow's voice generally sounded scratchy, like it had to make it through a thicket before it made it out, but now it sounded terrifying to you. He sounded so mad, and when he stood up to assess the damage your clumsy mistake left, all arms and legs - Spiderlike, - , he towered over you by feet. You immediately cowered back, eyes wide and shiny as you covered your mouth just to keep the cry in. "Look what you- Do you know how much work this is, twit!?"
"Y- yes, sir, I'm so sorry- it was an accident- " You didn't mean to drop the pile of parchment you were bringing him! They were so heavy, and you were so tired, they- they- they just slipped! Now they were all over the floor; hundreds of papers and markers spread all over the floor in a horrible mess that you couldn't even fathom pulling together again in any kind of order.
"... An accident." The Scarecrow repeated, a terrible furious tone in his awfully calm, even nightmare-voice. And before you can get out of the way again, cower to a place further away so he cant touch you, he sees red and reaches for you. He grabs you around the arms; the straw in his gloves crunching and straining around your limbs with surprising strength as he shakes you hard, twice. "Jesus christ you're dumb as a box of rocks." He seethes, sneering into your face. "'Accident'." His eyes roll in the fabric, a disturbing sight, though you're too frozen with fear to consider it too hard. "Get out of my sight, girl. Or idiot- whatever you are. Out."
Then he discards you to the floor, like trash, and you stare at him with wide eyes as he starts cleaning up his work- what he really cares about.
He's never hurt you before, you think miserably as tears well up in your eyes. You knew the Scarecrow was known for his cruelty, you knew first hand of his cold and removed, sometimes gleeful attitude towards his experiments, but he had never been that way towards you before. In fact the Scarecrow had always been rather decent towards you; taking you away from your old grunt work and tedious little jobs to help him in his study and allowing you more breaks than you're usual, so long as you spent them in his room with him (because it was your little secret, he'd told you). He would compliment you, calling you smart, and pretty a couple of times, and saying that you're the only one in this whole palace who he liked. That he felt happy around. He was almost... charming. Well, as charming as a mad straw man can be.
But now you saw the truth in his hate-filled, painted-on blue eyes glaring down at you, and you felt stupid. And terrified. But mostly dumb because- because you felt special. He made you feel special.
And you ruined it.
With a final 'i'm so sorry!', you sniffle and scramble up to your knees- rushing out of the study and hopefully as far away as possible.
~
When you literally crash into the Tin Woodman it hurts like hell, and you cry out; nose throbbing and forehead aching, sure to leave a bruise, but you're still mostly crying from what just happened. When the Tin Woodman looks down at you, this mess of a maid that just randomly ran around a corner and collided with him, in order to tell you not to concern yourself about it and just go back to your duties- he sees a woman absolutely devastated... and becomes confused.
Thats- that seems like an overreaction to their collision.
More awkwardly then he would like to admit, the Tin Woodman clears his throat and speaks down to you like a very unstable person- which you seem to be, to him (Unfortunate, he thinks, and wonders how you achieved a position in the palace.). "Miss- I don't intend to punish you for this. Just... go." You look up at him with wet eyes and something like gratitude, blinking away some of the tears at his words even though your face still hurts. "Go ahead; back to your work now. Thank you- "
When he tries to side step you, you cant bear it. Thats the kindest thing you've ever heard, right now. He's not going to punish you?? Even though you ran right into him??? And he's the Queen's best General???? Immediately you hide your face in your hands and once again and start to cry--causing him to promptly stop and return to his spot in front of you. "I- I'm so sorry... " You manage to weep, struggling to speak through your sobs. "I- Just- Got- Scolded- And- "
"Ah... " The Tin Woodman nods, believing he understands, patting your shoulder gently with razor fingers. "One of the higher ranking maids disciplined you? Oh yes, I know, that can be... difficult. But its necessary, to improve for our Queen Doro- "
"No," Shaking your head, you sniffle. "I- I- it was the Sc- Sc- Scarecrow... " At that, the woodman looks down at you again- looking properly this time.
Oh... this the girl the Scarecrow has been stealing away lately, he thinks. Well... right now, she doesn't seem like much. (But no one looks pretty when they're crying, so I'll reserve judgement for now. The Scarecrow wouldn't put that much effort into an ugly duckling).
"... my old friend can be temperamental these days." The Tin Woodman relents, finally giving into this situation and stroking his hand over the back of your shoulder. She's so pitiful, tear-damp and snotty, and he remembers when he used to cry. It was terrible and uncontrollable, and she's... there's something about her. Maybe he trusts the Scarecrow's judgement that much, or there's just an undeniable quality about this girl that attracts, but he cant judge her. Cant leave her like this. I guess this is what's happening, now, he thinks; sighing.
I suppose I cant have one of my dear Dorothy's servants walking around in less then top notch working order. Yes, that'll be my excuse. Goddamnit.
"I- I- I didn't mean to upset him!! I tried so- so hard! B- b- but my hand slipped- and- papers went everywhere- "
"Mhmm... " The Tin Woodman wasn't entirely sure what had happened between you and the Scarecrow, it was hard to make out the actual situation; but knowing his friend, former brother-in-arms, it was nasty.
While the Tin Woodman comforts you, his large and intimidating mechanical form blocking almost your entire view of the near surroundings, neither of you notice the tall canvas creature turn the corner and stop still; seeing the two of you.
~
The Scarecrow stares at the scene with irritation. He cant believe it. After weeks of treating you like you're 'special', making you feel better then everyone else, acting 'nice'-- the second he makes one little mistake, one that was completely your fault in the first place, you end up in that fucking tin can's arms. Figures.
How does that bleeding heart even end up in just the right place at just the right time like this!? You ran off aimlessly! Like a scared rat! If Scare didn't know any better in fact, which he does of course, he would think it were planned. It would have been, if it were him; if their positions were reversed. He'd have observed you for weeks, and made sure to be right where you would find him the moment there was an opening to sneak into your life. Slip ever-so-easily into your confidence and your trust.
In fact- he would have caused the incident that made you need him in the first place. More predictable, that way.
... but this is the Tin Man we're talking about. That dummy cant even get Dorothy to like him- and that kid's the most simple, conceited dolt in all of Oz. He didn't mean for this, thats for sure.
The Scarecrow stays silent, watching them. The girl's an ugly crier, he thinks... though a smirk slips across his embroidered mouth. But still, its kind of nice to know a few pointed words can get her that way. She really cares about what I think of her, huh?~
Perfect.
He'll have you in your rightful place on the ground between his legs, the filthy floor all over your pretty knees and your lips all over him, in no time. You'll look perfect with your mouth open- so fucking dumb, and pathetic. He might not have a dick to fill it with, but rest assured he'll find something~
-But its no time to celebrate, yet. Not with... The Scarecrow scowls darkly at the couple in front of him... this, going on.
He has to get the Tin Woodman out of the way. But, hey, considering how you hang onto his words... convincing you that Tin only has the w o r s t intentions for you, shouldn't be hard.
... After a few moments more of thought, the Scarecrow moves forward towards them; guiding you away from the Woodman and feigning the 'sincere' apology that he practised on the way here. His hands are gentle on your cheeks and he's sure to smile softly, apologetically, and he watches the Tin Woodman disappear out of the reflection in your eyes. Just like he should.
