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apprentice-hazel · 3 years

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A Little About Hazel

Answered this bunch of questions about Hazel because I intend to hopefully participate in the “Echoes of the Past” event hosted by @arcana-echoes

You can find Hazel’s “official” bio here! And links to more info about them are on my main page!

Which character(s) is your apprentice romancing? What attracts your apprentice to them?

Julian! Hazel loves that he’s so sociable and seems to be friends with everyone. He’s very considerate and attentive as well and genuinely cares about others. He’s also very sweet and VERY into physical affection, which Hazel is as well. They’ve got a lot in common and have quite similar personalities, so they understand each other well!

If your apprentice was a romanceable character in The Arcana, what would their route be like?

Hazel’s route would probably involve getting them out of their shell and showing them how to be more confident and assertive. (Honestly probably similar to, but less extreme than, Muriel’s route ngl.)

How does your apprentice take their coffee? Do they even drink coffee? If not, what do they drink instead to put pep in their step?

They don’t like coffee! It’s too bitter and they hate the taste. No amount of cream, sugar, and/or flavoring can make it drinkable to them. They usually won’t drink anything of the sort, but if they’re desperate and need to stay awake / wake up they’ll brew their own pep-up potion and flavor it to their liking.

If your apprentice was attending a potluck, what would they take as their contribution?

They’d probably check what everyone else was bringing and make something according to that, but if told to pick whatever:

They love to bake, so they’d prefer to bring dessert – perhaps a strawberry shortcake, but they’re happy to make anything.

If they brought an entrée, it would probably be a shredded potato casserole – shredded potatoes, ground beef, cheese, and cream of mushroom soup baked in the oven.

What are some of your apprentice’s minor and major fears? What’s the best way to comfort them when afraid?

They have a fear of abandonment, fear of loved ones being hurt or killed, and fear of general horror/spooky things and jump-scares.

Generally, being present with them and distracting them with something else is most helpful. Depending on how close they are to whoever they’re with, being held/letting them hold on to you is great. However, sometimes they won’t want to be touched, or may not be close enough with the person to want to touch/be touched. In that case, talking to them about something they like can be good. But you have to make sure you have their attention first or they may not hear it if they’re spoken to.

Does your apprentice enjoy dressing up or would they prefer to just wear what’s comfortable?

They much prefer to just wear whatever is most comfortable. If they do have to dress up for an event, they will prefer something elegant, but not too ornate. They generally prefer to not stand out, so they tend to dress relatively plainly.

Is your apprentice happy with their physical appearance? If so, do they flaunt it? If not, what do they want to change?

Hazel is quite happy with how they look, but has no desire to flaunt it (until they start dating Julian and then want to show off for him, because they know he likes it).

[Before being revived, they wanted to get top surgery. They were pretty flat-chested, but still… noticeable. That became unnecessary post revival as their new body automatically took the form they wanted – hence why they don’t have any scars from it. They don’t realize this is the case as they don’t remember how they were before.]

What would your apprentice want as a birthday gift?

Hazel isn’t too picky, honestly. Anything that shows them the other person was thinking about them is great! Handmade or store-bought, all gifts are equal before them. All they really want is for people to show them they remember things they like. Simple jewelry is usually a safe bet, and/or anything wolf-related.

What is your apprentice’s natural stress response (fight, flight, or freeze) and how does that influence their actions when confronted with a stressful situation? Do they recover from stress quickly or does it affect them for hours afterward?

Their natural stress response is freeze then flight. When confronted with a stressful situation they will freeze to analyze the situation, looking for escape routes and assessing their chances of success. If possible, they will run as fast as possible to put as much distance as necessary between them and the source of the stress. If running isn’t possible or practical, they will still move as quickly as is acceptable until they feel like they’re far enough away to be safe.

How quickly they recover is entirely dependent on whether they have access to a trusted person to help them unwind. They recover most quickly if they can be around Julian even if they just sit in the same room as him while he works. Secondary preference would be Asra or Portia. If forced to deal with things alone, it can take hours for them to recover.

What’s the first thing someone is likely to notice about your apprentice when meeting them for the first time? Do they have any other quirks that set them apart?

They are very socially awkward and this comes across very clearly.

Their face isn’t usually very expressive, and this is often mistaken for disinterest. Unfortunately, this is actually because they experience emotions on a scale of 1-2-3-8-9-10 so anything that falls in the middle ground is unlikely to affect their facial expression.

When they’re happy, they tend to jump and run around as a means of stimming, to burn off some of the excessive emotion they’re feeling. If they’re around people they trust, they may also spontaneously burst into song – something that expresses what they’re currently feeling.

How does your apprentice act when meeting new people? Are they outgoing, shy, awkward, aloof? Do they like being the center of attention?

They’re usually very quiet and withdrawn and their neutral expression and closed off body language can and does come across as standoffish and unapproachable. If you get past that, they’re usually shy and awkward, not saying much unless necessary. They feel very uncomfortable being the center of attention and can get really stressed out if the focus is on them.

How does your apprentice treat people in positions of authority? Does your apprentice believe they deserve respect just because of their position/status?

They’re usually nervous around people in positions of power, but that’s mostly because they’re not very knowledgeable about proper social conventions and are afraid of doing something wrong/inappropriate. They do not, however, believe people in positions of power deserve respect just for their status. If they feel like someone in power is shitty and or not suited for the role, they aren’t inclined to be nice to them. They usually prefer to avoid conflict, however, so they won’t usually confront the person unless pushed.

Your apprentice sees someone who is very obviously wealthy accidentally drop a small pouch of coins. What do they do?

If they think no one else noticed, they’ll keep it and use whatever money is inside to buy food or clothing for some of the street kids in the city. They know Asra grew up like that, and they like to help the kids whenever they can.

What was your apprentice’s reaction to Julian’s speech on the docks in Book VII? How did they deal with it afterwards?

“Achievement Unlocked: Hazel would now DIE for you.” They were honestly over the moon that he genuinely wanted to be with them, and that feeling kind of bled into everything else at the time. It hurt to see how much he cared about everyone but himself, but the knowledge that he was just trying to protect them and did want to be with them despite that he was “breaking up” with them made it possible for Hazel to resolve to pursue a relationship with him anyway. They can be stubborn and very determined when they set their mind to something. They were a bit overwhelmed and thus couldn’t properly voice their thoughts immediately, but they intended to make a plan and go after him at a later time.

How does your apprentice feel about sharing a bed with Asra in the shop?

They don’t mind at all. In fact, they like curling up with him at the end of the day. They sleep better when holding something or someone – they will cling in their sleep – and Asra got them a plush toy wolf to sleep with when he’s not around. They see Asra as a sibling and have zero qualms about platonic physical affection. This has, however, had the consequence of completely desensitizing them to being physically affectionate with anyone they consider a friend further impacting their already questionable grasp on common social etiquette…

Does your apprentice enjoy the luxury of the palace and Nadia’s gifts or do they find it overwhelming?

They do not. They’re super overwhelmed with all of it. The food is too fancy, the clothes Nadia gave them were far too extravagant for their tastes, and they absolutely hate feeling like anyone is going out of their way for them.

They do like the baths and the bed and the gardens, but for the most part that kind of ostentatious living is not for them.

How does your apprentice react when confronted with the creature from the abandoned wing in Asra and/or Nadia’s routes in Book VII? What’s going through their head at the time?

Hazel only caught a glimpse of it on their first night at the palace, when they were dragged up the stairs by Mercedes and Melchior when Portia left them alone with the dogs. They were absolutely terrified and tried to leave as quickly as possible seeing it only for an instant just before they made it back to the steps. They are… not a fan.

How does your apprentice feel about Consul Valerius?

They hate him immensely. He’s arrogant and so infuriatingly dismissive of them, they can’t stand it. He honestly made them so mad at their first meeting, that they retaliated against him – consequences be damned.

Is there a song or songs that you associate with your apprentice?

SO MANY (god I love music) but for now, the most important ones imo and personal favorites of mine are “I Believe in You” by Michael Bublé and "No Matter What" from the Steven Universe Movie!

Is your apprentice friends with any other fan apprentices?

Not at the moment, but they’re certainly open to it!

#hazel wolfe #about hazel #arcana eotp #the arcana

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acefrogmonarch · 4 years

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Lets chat

This is mostly going to look at Sakura's involvement in the ship, because it mostly revolves around her feelings. If there any refutes please leave them in the notes.

Now SS is seen as a ship in the Naruto fandom. It consists of Sasuke and Sakura in a romantic/sexual setting. It can be a great ship but let's dwell on that later.

For now, it's time to actually look at the ship and see where it stands. Sakura loves Sasuke. It can't be refuted by the characters or JVA or Kishimoto but where does that love come from?

I've been going through the manga and other people's opinions to make something of my own. That is generally how someone can come to a conclusion but enough about human interactions!

Let's start with Sakura!

Sakura is first seen as a fangirl that crushes on Sasuke. That is how we generally see her. Obsessing over Sasuke and his image.

Now that's the opinion of Naruto and probably anyone that is new to the Naruto series. However, as the story progresses we see how Sakura stops seeing Sasuke as an idea. As an unattainable and unapproachable force.

We see Sakura treat Sasuke more as a person, once they are in a team and spend some time together. Sakura realizes that Sasuke isn't perfect and can be hurt, unlike her idealized version of him. It doesn't make her stop chasing him. It drives her more because he was always the invincable Uchiha. The first time this becomes a reality is during the infamous 'c-rank mission turning into an A-rank'.

The Zabuza arc. The most iconic and memorable thing to happen to them. As a team and trying to find their Nindo, their ninja way. It shows how harsh the Ninja world really is.

Back to Sakura; this is her turning point. This is the point that she wanted to change herself because she wants to help others and Sasuke. Because she's scared for him and his life. Up until this point, she has been thrown into the Ninja world without really knowing the full dangers.

She was from a civilian family, she was bullied by others because of her appearance but was saved by Ino. But, because she's always had to be saved. She finds out what her nindo way is: to save others.

This is her drive and this is what pushes her until Sasuke's revenge and hatred, consume him. At this point Sakura has stopped looking at the fantasized version of her crush and sees Sasuke underneath his mask, underneath his hatred.

Then the Chunin exams begin; it is the second time where Sakura finds herself in a helpless situation. At this moment, Sakura has barely made any progress with herself, but she is slowly improving. She acknowledges that even Naruto is ahead of her. This is the first change in character. She knows she isn't as strong as Sasuke, to protect him or help him.

She drowns in her insecurities, so she takes Sasuke's insult to heart. "You're annoying." But she is also encouraged by his acknowledgement when he notices that she can read Genjutsu like the back of her hand.

That's her drive. His approval, it conflicts me to point out the difference as to why this isn't necessarily good. If he was her mentor, it would have been fine. If he was older and a positive role figure for her, it would have been better.

But they are Ninja and compliments are either going to make them bitter or happy. But because he is a peer, her crush. It is unhealthy. To set her personality, her self importance, solely on one person? -as a person and on a growing girl? It affects them and it influences them greatly

Now, the chunin exam comes and goes and so does Sasuke. He leaves the village but before that Sakura tries to make him stay. She pushes her love to him and he rejects her because he has a vendetta. He has a goal outside of the village. A duty to his clan, his mother and to Itachi. But what sakura does is wrong.

I will point out, at any point, how their actions are wrong.

Sakura pushing her love onto Sasuke to make him stop leaving the village is emotional abuse. A small incident, yes, but she tried. Maybe she wasn't going to hurt herself if he left but her unwanted feelings and trying to guilt him into staying is the problem here.

"I had fun on this team and I know you did too." Is a line that stuck with me, throughout this whole interaction. She's trying to get him to understand that he wasn't alone but she wasn't putting his feelings into consideration.

Emotional abuse may be a strong word for something like this but it shows that they don't know that it's wrong. If he had felt guilt this would have stopped him, but he doesn't. It's his mission and stubbornness that lets him leave her behind.

Sakura is stuck at point A again, he leaves. She's helpless again. She isn't acknowledged by him anymore. So she begs Naruto to get him back. To her, to him, to the team. Because she can't help but feel useless and that it's her fault.

She's there in the aftermath. To clean up the wounds and get stronger. She has to rely on herself at the point because Naruto soon leaves to get stronger, as well.

This is the end of Genin Sakura. Shippuden Sakura is a different person entirely.

But before that, let's stop. I want to mention something. Sakura isn't a girl that will commit to something just because someone else is. I'm referring to her rivalry with Ino.

Before she knew that Ino liked Sasuke, Sakura liked Sasuke's admiration. Then she saw how Ino reacted to Sakura's obvious crush and started noticing more social cues. I.E. Hinata's crush on Naruto and his dullness to his surroundings. But oblivious to her own turmoil until Ino and her talk things out as teens.

Ugh shippuden. Let's get this over with..

Sakura returns with the confidence she lacked from when she was a Genin. That is a given. That is supposed to happen, you realize something you didn't before and move forward with your life and choices. But she doesn't ask for forgiveness from her friends for her attitude.

Because it's her attitude. She built herself up because no one else can do that for her. It still doesn't excuse her, she has to realize a border between herself and her actions. They have meaning and they have weight. It doesn't affect Naruto because nothing stops him but that doesn't mean that it's okay.

Moving on to the ship and yes: this issue will be back with NS.

Onto SS shippuden!

Sakura is more mature and is still after Sasuke. Because she feels responsible? Because she feels like she can support him? Because she wants to help? None of those are love. They are obligations. They are promises. They can be confused as love.

She might have felt guilty because she hadn't done as much when she was younger. It's at this point where I can't see Sakura as in love. Because of her guilt, because she feels responsible for him and his actions. But I will try to find some way to see it. Or understand it as such.

Something I didn't mention before is the curse mark and Sakura's reaction to it. The reason why I saved it to now is because it mostly represents how much has changed between them and how much of their old bond has deteriorated. It shows a passage of time between them.

The curse mark and Sasuke's obsession have been influenced and enhanced by the curse mark. That scared Sakura back when she was a genin, In the forest of death. she didn't want that to happen to him, to lose himself in that hatred. Meeting Sasuke back in Orochimaru's abandoned lab and seeing him for the first time: Shocked her.

He's no longer the Sasuke she knew from before but that didn't stop her from helping him. If it was "undying" love or obligation, I wouldn't know.

This makes her stance on wanting to kill Sasuke that less confusing; at least to me. It's her love/obligation that makes her resolve. She owes it to him. To stop his pain, to help him; even if it's killing her to go through with it.

But she doesn't follow through because it felt like betraying his goal and her love for him.

I will not be looking at her false confession: that will be covered in the NS analysis.

I only have one thing to say about that: in regards to SS. It makes sakura's feelings for Sasuke look like an inconvenience. To the mission, to her duty and to her team, because it is. But not because it inconveniences everyone else: just her.

Naruto turns it into his goal. Kakashi owes Sasuke, the proper mentor he should have been instead of being lenient. Sakura lets her feelings get into the way of the mission time and time again. The false confession, too flustered to stop him or kill him. Almost giving up on him and risking the mission. Almost killed by him.. twice.

I'm not solely blaming Sakura but Naruto and Kakshi both could've taken themselves out of the situation and go around to deal with conflicting feelings much later. Kakashi stops being the designated jonin leader because he couldn't stop Naruto like Yamato can. Naruto went with Jiraiya to help with the Kurama's chakra and get stronger.

Edit: Okay. Maybe Naruto isn't the best example but both Sakura and Him have priblems when dealing with Sasuke.

They let Sasuke's abandonment be a learning experience. Sakura is the only person behind and still stuck in the past. Because it is something she desperately clings to. It's why she doesn't give up and why she tries a false confession; it's a normalcy she wants back.

The war is probably the only place I can play off after this point. Because it's the most interactions between them at that point. Sakura meeting Sasuke on the battlefield is like living a nightmare. The one place she didn't expect him to show up and he still surprises her.

But she still doesn't know him, not like before. Fighting with him again, side by side, instead of against; is a sign of trust she isn't ready but will do because it's her duty. But she probably wants to show off and show she may look the same but is a different person entirely.

I wish this is the path she took. Instead we see her quickly bring him back into her life and rejuvenate Team 7. It's a bittersweet/nostalgic moment; the climax before the battle. It's just like before. Before he left. Except it shouldn't. It's the last battle to determine all, they are about to die. I get that but there should be boundaries.

"I'm not here for you, I'm here to protect the Ninja alliance." Sakura should have said something along those lines. But it's a shounen battle manga, that doesn't talk about feelings, moving on. They have a lot to talk about and during the black period, it should be a process of healing.

Yes, I'm still on this scene. Sakura's love can be described as unconditional. She will always hold a torch for him. Because she cares for him and his goals. That is what she's made to be and I hate it.

It's consistent, supportive, and it's to help him. Unconditional can be made out to be parental or motherly but for Sakura it's an innocent kind of love. It's passionate.

Should I even go analyze the two attempted murders? I'd rather go over Sasuke's love.

Now Sasuke's love is a much more simple case compared to Sakura.

Sasuke doesn't love or accept Sakura's love until adulthood.

Because he's no longer a curious and hopeful child and is now a socially awkward adult.

He doesn't know what to do with that.

He doesn't know how to handle that. His whole life, full of vengeance and looking for answers. A single goal but now; he no longer has a drive. So he looks within himself and seeks atonement for his actions.

He stays busy because he knows he's going to have to answer her. He needs answers within himself to see if he can accept her love. He might not feel worthy or okay with her love, after all, he put her through hell.

I sincerely hope he begs for fucking forgiveness from Sakura after this whole shit show of shippuden.

If Sakura's love is unconditional then Sasuke's is appreciated. He's thankful to Naruto and Sakura, they didn't give up on him. It might not be pure, adult, lust, passionate, or innocent; But it is there.

I don't see the men being as self aware of their actions or feelings. In the sense that they don't feel guilty for their actions. Men and women justify it, they all have too. Because they are ninjas and it's at this point where guilt may not have a huge impact on them.

"To finish the mission." and "No matter what." It's these thoughts and feelings that make up their personality. To commit to something, to finish what you started without fail and with your life.

Regardless, Shippuden and Boruto both make a great point that Sakura knows Sasuke, Intimately and Fully. She took the time to understand his pain and hatred. She took the time to help him, even when he didn't want it.

Sasuke didn't do that for Sakura, he can barely accept her love and acceptance. The knowledge that someone loves him, is enough.

Sasusaku is a good ship that supports each other. Sasuke is greatful for Sakura's constant signs of affection, even if he can't accept them. Sakura looks to Sasuke as a goal, one she needs to find within herself. She envies his skill but doesn't let that stop her or let her become bitter towards him.

That's the bare necessities, the foundation. But it progresses into something horrible and I stop shipping at that point.

Edit: The clear reason to me, as to why Sasuke liked Sakura back, is because he admires her strength. The strength that saved him from his emotional darkness and inner turmoil.

At this point he allowed himself to stop wallowing in self pity and hatred and let her in. This is adult Sasuke, this is resolve for her. So he tries to love again.

If that last statement doesn't make sense, it's because of Itachi. That should explain enough, if it doesn't go to notes!

#sasusake #sasusaku #sasuke #sakura #too mamy tags #but hi #nuetral #debate #hiii #character breakdown

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ohmytheon · 6 years

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What if you wrote a fantasy AU todochako one shot?? She could be in charge of protecting him with her magic?? Idk I just think it would be cute

Did you say one-shot? Because my brain apparently didn’t. This could definitely stand on its own as a one-shot, but there is going to be more of this. Mostly because I have been wanting to write a BNHA Fantasy AU so freaking bad and this hit all my buttons. It won’t be regularly updated like my other fics, but this was a lot of fun to write. I got way into writing the backstory for this. (Guess who they’re traveling to speak with. lmao)

When Uraraka had been given the order to protect the prince during their journey through the barbarian lands, she had been incredibly displeased. If there was one thing she had learned in her life, it was that royals were arrogant and snotty. They had far too much money than they knew what to do with, spending it frivolously while the little people wanted for more, and thought themselves better than everyone else.

Still, despite her attempts during her childhood to avoid all things royal, as she had gotten older and her magic stronger, the king had seen it fit to bring her to the court. After all, magic was power and power meant a stronger rule. He was already a man who ruled his people with an iron fist and he had ensured that Uraraka was a part of that rule. It hadn’t helped that her magic was stronger than most wizards or witches twice her age or more.

After years of war between their country and the large barbarian tribe that hung around their borders, there had been talk of a treaty. Uraraka wouldn’t have been interested in it if not for the fact that magic was more prevalent there. She’d even heard talk that they had dragons! Her magic was unique in her world, making people both revere and fear her at times. She felt removed from everyone, especially since she’d been taken from her parents when she was younger and forced to live on the outskirts of the castle like she belonged to the royal family.

Being tasked with the crowned prince’s protection had not been a pleasant one, but it afforded the opportunity to leave, spread her wings, and explore a world that she had only dreamed of. If she had to deal with some uppity prince in order to do that, she would suffer it. She had learned to ignore a lot of things in her time after being brought to court. A snotty rich kid who would one day be king would be simple enough to deal with. He probably wouldn’t even leave the safety of his horse drawn carriage unless it was to complain. Maybe she could even pretend that she was on some grand adventure instead of babysitting some highborn ponce.

Having really only seen Prince Shouto Todoroki from a distance and at royal functions, being kept away from him, Uraraka had not interacted with him personally. She hadn’t been allowed to, seeing as how she wasn’t from a highborn family. Although she wasn’t considered lowborn anymore, it was easier to interact with them. Being stuck in the middle left her in a strange limbo, belonging to neither and making both resent her on some level. She had expected that of Todoroki as well. From what she’d seen of him, he was aloof and cold, allowing very few close to him, even if many highborn girls fawned over him. She supposed he was attractive, even with that mysterious burn on the side of his face, but that was offset by his distant superiority complex.

Of course the prince was nothing like she’d anticipated.

Besides Todoroki, a few other highborn members of the court had come along with them on the journey to hold the treaty talks. They all stayed in the carriage, peeking their heads out to complain or demand something. With Uraraka’s position as the mage of their company, nearly all of their orders were directed to her or the head of their guard, a young but very serious knight named Teyna Iida. He was much more intense about the whole thing, but then there had been reports of attacks on caravans and the like. It was partly why the king had decided to speak with barbarian tribe about a peace treaty. They could provide protection on the road for a price and also allow more trade to come in, their lands rich with bounty that they didn’t have in their borders.

While most people rode horses, some were forced to walk. Uraraka hated the idea of riding above others that were less fortunate, so she had chosen to walk like many of the lower-born knights and tradesmen. It helped that she was more familiar with them too. She kept her staff on her at all times, just in case, and a small pack filled with potions and herbs should she need them.

As soon as the castle was out of sight, the door to the carriage opened and the prince stepped out effortlessly without even bothering to ask for it to be stopped. She peered at him, expecting him to complain about the heat or bugs, but instead, he asked a young green-haired knight, “Can you retrieve my horse for me?”

Izuku Midoriya was one of the higher-born knights and a close companion of both the prince and many other knights in their company. He was friendly in a way that made people both high and lowborn flock to him. Out of everyone, Uraraka had only seen him act as a friend to Todoroki. Even as the prince remained impassive, Midoriya was often smiling and laughing. He was kind. When many other highborns sneered at her for her lowborn blood and even some of the knights shunned her for her magic, he always went out of his way to speak with her. He was one of the few people in the castle that had made her time bearable in the past. She wondered how someone with such a good heart as him was able to be friends with someone as unapproachable as Todoroki.

Now as they were traveling, Midoriya grinned down at the prince from his horse. “Was the carriage not to your liking or was it the company?”

Todoroki sighed. “If I have to listen to Monoma complain about ‘savages’ and their rumored customs one more time, I might throw him out.”

Midoriya laughed as he waved down a knight to bring over a beautiful white horse that only Todoroki was allowed to ride. “I don’t think anyone would be upset with you if you did.”

“Not to mention Yaoyozoru’s constant hints about a betrothal between me and his daughter are threatening to drive me mad.” Todoroki took the reins of the white horse, bringing a hand to softly caress it. Despite his tired and displeased tone, a faint smile cross his face as he mumbled something for only his horse to hear. It was an unexpectedly soft gesture that took Uraraka by surprise. Maybe she shouldn’t have been eavesdropping, but she was only a meter away.

“You’re quite popular,” Midoriya teased.

With practiced ease, Todoroki pulled himself up onto his horse and swung his leg over. He looked like a natural, like he’d been born to ride, but then, many highborns were like that. Commoners didn’t get the chance to ride horses as often unless they worked with them. Uraraka liked riding horses, but she didn’t want some of the lowerborn knights and members of their company to think that she thought herself better than them. Still, she had been admiring Todoroki’s horse earlier. He was one of her favorites at the royal stables.

“It’s not me that’s popular. It’s the crown.” There was no bitterness in Todoroki’s voice, but there wasn’t any happiness either. Unlike Uraraka, who was stuck somewhere in between, the prince knew his place. He had his restraints as well. Instead of looking upset or disappointed by it, he’d accepted his role. “And that’s what will be behind any motivation of my father’s choosing for the future queen. As if I have any choice in the matter. He should be talking with the king, not me. It’s just bothersome.”

Though she had never felt any sort of pity for him before, Uraraka thought that rather sad. He was wealthy beyond any imaginable means and would rule this country one day, but there were some things that he would never be able to have. Something as simple as love was not to be in his future. Even if Uraraka found it difficult to form some connections because of her magic, she would at least have a choice. So far, she’d chosen to not consider it at all, focusing on her magic and building her strength, but it wouldn’t have to always be that way.

They continued the rest of the day in relative silence. The guards talked amongst each other while the tradesmen stuck with one another. Midoriya often acted as a go between for all of them, weaving his horse through the group to speak with Iida for updates and then back to where Todoroki rode in silence.

The prince was still aloof as ever, but for the first time, Uraraka noticed something different about him. He was at ease. She’d never realized how tense he was before, but now she saw just how uncomfortable he’d been every time she saw him at court. Out here, he was much more at ease, his body relaxed and his expression one of passive content. He had probably never been far from the castle either now that she thought about it. This trip must have been a chance for him to escape the confines of his royal blood on some level.

As the sun began to set, Iida decided that they would stop and make camp. It was at least a three days journey to the border if nothing came up to stop them or so she’d been told by a knight named Jirou. It was rare for women to be knights, but she had lived on the border of the country and was more familiar with the barbarian tribe than most people. Where she had grown up, fighting had been much more common and it hadn’t mattered what gender you were. A woman could still die by the sword or flame.

Unlike the other highborn members of their group, Prince Todoroki was active in helping set up base camp. He did simple things such as help other pitch their tents before insisting on helping with his own. Naturally, it was larger than the rest and more elaborate as well. She caught a few members of their group gazing at it enviously, but no one said anything. Very few spoke out against the Todoroki family. The king was feared and respected and, despite his harsh rule at times, he was mostly a just king. Uraraka simply didn’t like him, but even she kept her mouth shut.

She was in the process of setting up her own tent when a voice from behind asked her, “Do you require any assistance, my lady?”

Ready to brush off another attempt from one of the knights to engage her, Uraraka huffed and said, “I’m not some hapless maidan.” However, when she turned around, she found herself standing face-to-face with the prince and her face burned a furious pink. “Oh, I’m sorry. I didn’t know–” Speaking so brusquely to one of royal blood was a punishable offense. She often spoke sharply to highborns, seeing as how they meant very little to her when put up against her magic, but not to someone like him. “I apologize, Your Grace.”

Todoroki, on the other hand, didn’t seem phased by her behavior in the slightest. “There’s no need to be so formal around me.” That was easy for him to say. He was the bloody crowned prince of the whole kingdom. “I don’t think that you’re hapless. I merely want to make sure I pull my weight around camp.”

“I’m fine, really!” Uraraka insisted. With a simple swirl of her left hand, the tent seemingly pitched itself up with the help of invisible hands. She’d learned to do that a few years ago. Even the simplest magic helped build her strength, so she had to continually use it for even trivial things.

Todoroki’s eyes widened almost imperceptibly. He was very good at hiding how he felt. “You’re the court mage.”

“I wouldn’t say that I’m a mage. That sounds so fancy.” Uraraka held her staff closer to her. “I’m more like a witch, if I’m being honest.”

“I was told that you were a part of my guard,” Todoroki said in such a serious tone. “You were walking nearby the whole time and I didn’t even acknowledge you. I apologize for my rudeness.”

A nervous laugh tumbled out of Uraraka’s lips. She was talking to the prince like it was normal. This was not normal. “It’s not a big deal. I usually tend to keep to myself, even at the castle. I don’t like drawing attention to myself much. It’s…not always positive when I do.”

“Because of your magic?”

Uraraka nodded her head. “Most people find it fascinating and admire it.” She held out her hand and opened it palm up, a ball of light appearing in it as she did. With the sun close to falling down the horizon, the light provided them better vision and she watched the way it glowed in his eyes as he focused on it. “Others though…” The ball of light turned into a swirl of darkness that enveloped her hand and took it out of sight. “It’s a curse, something to be feared. I’m considered little more than a weapon of the kingdom.”

“Have you ever had to use your magic in battle before?” Todoroki’s question was so straightforward that it took her aback. There hadn’t been any fear in his eyes as he’d watched her use her magic. It had been more than curiosity as well. He had looked… Well, it was hard for her to tell what he’d looked like, but his face had been more open than she could ever remember him appearing.

“Once,” Uraraka admitted. “When the neighboring kingdom sent someone to assassinate you.”

Recognition lit up in Todoroki’s eyes as he snapped them back up to hers. “You saved me then?” His gaze was almost too much for her, his mismatched eyes filled with intensity, to the point where she almost took a step back. She bit her lip, but nodded her head again. “Why was I not made aware of this?”

“Well, your father – the king, I mean – keeps me at the castle for such reasons, but he prefers for me to…not mingle much with the court.” Uraraka shifted uncomfortably on her feet. “I come from a very lowborn family, but was brought to the castle when my powers began to bloom. I suppose there’s not much magic left in these lands, so I’m considered an important tool.”

Todoroki stared at her. “You’re not a tool.” He spoke with such conviction that it nearly knocked the wind out of her chest, as if he had some sort of magic that could do that. Why was he being so nice to her? He was of royal blood. He would be king one day. She might have to fight to the death to protect him, but he didn’t even need to acknowledge her presence. “You are an important member of the royal court and my personal guard and you should be treated as such with the proper respect.”

Uraraka blushed again. “I’m used to it…”

“I’ve heard tale that your magic is extremely powerful,” Todoroki continued, “though I’ve never seen it until now.” He frowned. “I thought…” She found herself leaning in as he trailed off, a troubled look crossing his face. “I’ve seen you around the castle for years. I thought you were a serving girl of some sort. I never even knew…”

“Don’t fret!” Uraraka said hastily. “That appearance was what the king thought was best. If I remained unassuming, I could serve my purpose better.” She smiled. “Besides, who would believe that the kingdom’s most treasured weapon and mage was a young girl?”

When Todoroki stepped forward and took one of her hands in both of his, Uraraka nearly jumped out of her shoes. She might have accidentally zapped them both with a bit of magic, but he didn’t blink. “That’s unacceptable. You shouldn’t be hidden in the dark. If you’re a sign of power, then you should be allowed to show your face to the world.”

She didn’t know what to say. Honestly, she wasn’t sure if she was even capable of words right now. She was beginning to understand why he had such a polarizing effect on many of the highborn girls at court. Not that it meant anything! Uraraka managed to put on a weak smile and say, “Thank you,” if only because there was no way she could get anything else out. Her magic felt like it was burning through her veins and it was all she could do to contain it. Sometimes, her emotions made it go haywire, especially when she was nervous.

“You should eat with us tonight,” Todoroki told her.

That sounded…terrible. She could only imagine eating at a hastily made dining area in the main tent that was serving as a base of sorts with all the other highborns, many of whom sneered at her. Ugh, especially Lord Monoma. He was young like that, but had taken over as the head of his family after his father’s hunting accident. He was one of her main tormentors. She’d love to turn him into a toad, but alas, it would only end badly for her.

“I usually have my meals with Midoriya and Iida,” Todoroki continued before she could answer. “The others are…”

“Grating on the nerves?” Uraraka offered.

A ghost of a smile crossed Todoroki’s face. “I was going to say ‘difficult’, but Midoriya would say that was more appropriate.”

She did get on well with Midoriya and she liked Iida. Both of them were serious about their positions and jobs to protect the prince, but they could be light-hearted and they had always been friendly to her. It would be nice to have a meal with them and be treated as closer to an equal. She was still wary, of course, mostly because the prince would be there, but she had a strange feeling that he was thinking the same thing. Yes, he was above them all, but there would be times when not being treated as such came as a relief.

This journey was a way to feel that for the both of them apparently.

“So, will you join us tonight?” Todoroki asked.

“If you don’t mind,” Uraraka replied.

“I will have Midoriya find you when it’s ready.” Todoroki finally let go of her hand. Uraraka tried not to act like she hadn’t been holding her breath the entire time. “There’s still work to do around camp and I should see to the others.” They could hear someone yelling. It sounded like one of the highborns was displeased about the rate their tent was being set up. Todoroki sighed. “A prince’s duty never ends.”

It was very close to a joke and Uraraka bit back a smile. She gave a small bow, which he returned, and then he gave her his leave, taking off the in the direction of the shouting. As soon as he was out of her sight, Uraraka ducked into her tent and put her face in her hands. She’d talked to the prince! He’d grabbed her hand! He’d invited her to dine with Midoriya and Captain Iida! What was going on? This was definitely going to be an interesting journey.

#ochako uraraka #shoto todoroki #todochako #bnha #mha #bnha fantasy au #izuku midoriya #tenya iida #monoma neito #boku no hero academia #my hero academia #rarepair #todochako fanfic #bnha fanfiction #the things of songs #yeah i finally wrote for this ship #prince todoroki is a dreamboat but witch uraraka is where it's at yo

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