Meet Paulina! Known as ‘theonetruenorth,’ she is a 31-year-old fanfiction author from Poland.
How long have you been writing?
Since as far back as I can remember! I’ve always been writing and creating my own stories and when I discovered the wonder of fanfiction, it was like a whole new realm to play with. I’ve been writing fanfics for years and I went through many different fandoms – Shadowhunters is my latest stop.
How did you get involved in the Shadowhunters fandom?
By accident, really. I’m a fan of Robert Sheehan, who played Simon in the 2013 movie, so naturally, I had to watch it. Then one day, I wanted to see if the movie got a sequel (despite not being that good) and I found out about Shadowhunters.
What is the appeal of fanfiction to you?
I have always enjoyed exploring the different paths that a story could have gone if just one small detail were changed. What could have happened if things went just a little differently? I also love having the ability to take the characters we love and put them in new circumstances. And, of course, the fact that I can express my creativity through fanfiction and have people give me feedback is incredible. If I can make one person smile because of a story of mine – or cry, depending on how sad the story is – then that makes it all worth it.
What character or aspect of the Shadowhunters world makes you want to write?
While I do love Magnus, I think it’s Alec who actually resonates the most with me. He’s such a wonderful mix of contradictions and I find myself reflected in a lot of his insecurities. So, in a way, writing fanfiction is like a self-study, and I find that a little therapeutic, too.
What emotion do you most like to write and why?
I like to write pretty much anything that leaves a character vulnerable. I tend to joke that my favorite characters always suffer in my stories, but it’s true – hurt/comfort is often the leading theme of my writing.
What is your favorite fanfiction trope?
I try to write the same tropes I like to read the most – soulmates, wing fics, friends-to-lovers, and characters being badasses.
What ships do you ship, and why do you love them so much?
Malec, first and foremost. But I do admit I have a bit of a soft spot for platonic Jalec, too; there’s something about two souls being literally tied together that speaks to me.
What is your favorite scene you’ve ever written?
There are actually a couple stories I have a real fondness for, for various reasons, but the one that comes to mind right now is the sex scene from ‘Primal.’ It involves Alec being Magnus’ anchor while the warlock is so focused on a magical ritual that he’s actually at risk of losing himself in the nature magic. It was also a story that I did quite a lot of research for (the pagan religion, druids, and mythology), and that’s always fun.
Give us an out of context line from one of your stories.
“You have a plan.” Alec’s quiet voice is only for Magnus’ ears to hear. “I know that look. It’s your ‘I’m going to have to do something I don’t want to do’ face.”
What has been the best part of your fandom experience so far?
The people who read and enjoy my stories are, by far, the best thing that has happened to me in this fandom. I’ve received so much support from people – some whom I don’t even know, who have helped me put myself back together when I hit a low spot. I love being able to speak to people who enjoy the show as much as I do, with whom I can brainstorm ideas and discuss the episodes.
Like what you see? You can read theonetruenorth’s fanfiction on Archive of Our Own, or follow her on Twitter or Tumblr.
