Isa-beenme - Isa Been Me - Tumblr Blog

Hello!! Do you think you could right a sort of enemies to lovers relationship with Azriel? Maybe where he and the reader get into a heated argument, and the bond snaps when the tension hits its peak? If this doesn’t inspire you, please don’t feel as though you have to accept my request! This is my first attempt at making a request, so I apologize if I did it incorrectly. Also, I wanted to note that your writing style is one of my favorites, and I hope you are proud of your work! That’s all, thank you for your time!!

THE SOOOOOOOOOONG

Listen to it please thank you

Loved your request, darling, it's actually much better when you send the whole story, I usually struggle when I try to think of a whole story alone (I swear I'm creative but it's hard to get things in your head out of nothing)

I try to be proud of my work as much as I can, thank you so much 🥺🥺🥺🥺🥺

THIS WORK was sooooooo fun to do, I swear at some moment while I was writing this I laughed at my own story, super cool

I thought: "I'm gonna make this super serious" amd ended up with this, which is much better

This Is Love

Your family always meant everything to you. Being Rhysand's cousin meant you would be inserted in everything he did. Being his second in command meant you would be involved in every plan. And being all of that meant you would be part of his Inner Circle, which automatically involved you in everything they did together. From training, to family dinner and trips around the Courts for the meetings, you did all together. And you loved it. Again, your family meant everything to you, and spending time with them was on your top list of favorite things to do. I mean, when a certain Shadowsinger wasn't completely involved.

Working with Azriel was always fine, perfectly fine, actually. Rhysand often paired you up together to work because everything fell into place with the two of you. Your mind always seemed to think like one. But that teamwork only made itself present when the topic was your position towards the court and your job. Outside that, you both were a mess. Training with him was a dread, from him pinpointing each - non-existent - mistake, to you lashing yourself on him each time he made you angry, it's been more than 250 years of both of you trying to win one another in the training. It never happened.

Family dinner was also horrible since both of you had very different visions in every single topic someone started, not just that, somehow, no matter how many times you and Azriel changed seats with someone, it doesn't take a week until you find yourselves seated next to each other again. On top of that, you and he possess the ability to winnow, yet, Rhysand always thought it was necessary for you to winnow together. No matter how many times you said it wasn't necessary, Rhys only ignored you, the necessity of traveling with him making you hate your life just a little bit more.

But if spending time with your family was on your top favorite things to do, game night with Azriel was on your top things to make yourself miserable. It was a common scene for the rest of the Inner Circle to see you and him screaming at each other at some point. Sometimes one of you thought the other was cheating. Sometimes you started saying the other was winning too many times and should be taken out of the game. Sometimes it was the complete opposite, "if you lose so much, maybe you should step back and stop occupying space". Tonight it wasn't different, your favorite fight was ready to start as Azriel explained the rules to the new game.

Besides the usual crackling tension between you and Azriel, this night seemed to be at its worst peak. For weeks now, both of you seemed to be on the edge with one another, even in work, your usual camaraderie was replaced with sharp remarks and piercing glares. Everyone around the table exchanged puzzled looks, uncertain of what exactly had caused this escalating feud.

Azriel couldn't understand why every word from you grated on his nerves, nor could you fathom why Azriel's mere presence felt suffocating. The build-up of unresolved emotions and unspoken desires had been simmering for days, and now, it was about to reach its boiling point.

The Night Court's game night had started off innocently enough with your usual truth or drink game, something to light up tension (or build it, in your and Azriel's case), but as the evening wore on, the tension between you and Azriel became palpable as the Shadowsinger tried to introduce a new idea to the table. It began with a harmless disagreement over the rules of a card game, but it quickly escalated into a heated argument once the match started.

Azriel's patience was wearing thin as you challenged every decision he made during the game, the cards he dropped and the ones he chose, everything seemed horrible in your eyes. The other way around too, your matches weren't valid, you couldn't pick certain cards and no, it wasn't your turn yet. His usually calm demeanor was now strained, and he couldn't help but feel irritated by your persistent need to question him.

-I don't understand why you always have to question everything I do - Azriel snapped at some point, his shadows flickering around him as a testament to his growing frustration.

-Maybe if you didn't act like you knew everything, I wouldn't have to. "Boo, I'm Azriel and I don't let people play the game because I invented it and none of you understand how to play it" - You quickly shot back, their voice laced with sarcasm

The room fell silent, and your friends exchanged uneasy glances, sensing the mounting tension between the two of you. But there was no going back now; the floodgates had opened, and all the pent-up emotions were rushing to the surface.

-I don't act like I know everything, and I don't talk like that - Azriel retorted, his voice tight with anger - I just wish you'd stop acting like you have all the answers! Sometimes it is okay to listen to help because, guess what? I indeed invented the game and there's no way of you learning how to play it, if you don't listen to the rules!

-Well, forgive me for not blindly following you like everyone else. I'm not afraid to question things when they don't make sense! - Your eyes narrowed, jaw clenching as you shot back.

-And I'm not afraid to take action instead of endlessly debating every damn decision! - Azriel's temper flared, his wings twitching in agitation.

-I think what you're really good at is fucking my life! - Your family gasped at your words, shocked by the intensity.

-It's just a payback for every headache you give me every time you breathe near me - They quickly turned their heads to Azriel, equally shocked by his response.

The words hung in the air, and for a moment, it seemed as if you were both about to explode. Your family exchanged worried glances, unsure of how to intervene in the escalating argument. But just as the situation reached its breaking point, a strange shift occurred. As Azriel locked eyes with you, an unexpected intensity replaced your anger. It was as if the universe itself had decided to step in, forcing you to confront the undeniable truth.

The room seemed to blur around you as you stood there, chests heaving from the heated exchange. The fight had reached its peak, and in that very moment, the mating bond snapped into place. The sudden connection was overwhelming, a rush of emotions and sensations that neither of you could comprehend. Your anger dissolved into confusion and shock as you felt an unexplainable pull towards each other.

Azriel's wings, once tense and defensive, now softened, as if beckoning every step you unknowingly took closer. Your guard came down as well, replaced by a mix of vulnerability and curiosity.

Your friends watched in astonishment as two adversaries stood there, seemingly lost in a world of their own. The room is filled with a charged silence, the kind that accompanies a revelation that changes everything. Even if none of them knew exactly what revelation was going on at that moment.

But as the realization set in, Rhysand and Feyre exchanged knowing smiles. It was no secret for them that you and Azriel had an underlying connection, a bond waiting to be acknowledged. They had witnessed the chemistry and unspoken feelings simmering between the two of you, and now, it seemed the universe had decided to intervene.

Your eyes met Azriel's once again, and this time, there was no irritation or hostility. Instead, there was an undeniable spark of understanding and attraction, a recognition of the emotions that you had been hiding from each other. Neither of you spoke a word, yet you communicated on a deeper level, the mating bond solidifying your connection at each passing second. It was as if all the walls you had built around your heart came crashing down, leaving you exposed and vulnerable to him.

As the reality of the mating bond settled in, your heart raced with confusion and fear. You couldn't understand why fate would choose someone you had built such animosity towards to be your mate. Feeling overwhelmed and unable to face the truth, you turned around and ran, needing time and space to process the whirlwind of emotions inside you.

Azriel, though taken aback and hurt by the sudden rejection, couldn't ignore the pull of the bond drawing him to you. With determination, he chased after your steps, his heart heavy with worry and longing. He caught up to you as you were getting closer to your room. Gently reaching out to touch your shoulder, you recoiled as if his touch burned.

-Please, let's talk - Azriel pleaded, his voice tinged with sadness - I never wanted to hurt you. The fights... They were a defense mechanism, a way to hide my own feelings and protect myself from the pain of loving someone who seemed to hate me. You started this, I just… Thought I should defend myself.

-But why you? Why did it have to be you? - You whispered, voice breaking with emotion. Azriel's eyes softened, and he took a step closer, his hand hovering near your face, yearning for the connection you both feared and desired.

-I wish I had an answer for that. All I know is that the bond doesn't choose who we love, it just binds us to our other half. And for some inexplicable reason, it chose us - He could see the pain in your eyes and knew that he needed to be honest, to show vulnerability despite his fears of rejection - The truth is, the more you fought me, the more I fell for you. Your fire, your strength, everything about you drew me in. But I was terrified of what it meant, so I pushed you away.

-I didn't know what to do with my feelings either - You admitted, opening a place in your heart that you swear to never look at again - I tried to convince myself that I hated you, but it only made things worse. Every fight, every argument, it was just a way to hide how much I… I wanted to be by your side. Everything was simple with them but you? You made me feel things and I didn't want it - Azriel's heart ached at your words, and he took a step closer, finally touching your cheek gently.

-We can figure this out together. I don't want to fight anymore. I want to be here for you, to understand you, and for you to understand me - Tears finally spilled from your eyes, as you looked into Azriel's soulful gaze, feeling the sincerity of his words.

-It won't be easy, but maybe we can try - You gave in, hugging him tightly, filling the void in your soul that you ignored for so long.

You and Azriel knew that you had a journey ahead, to step down from the fights and finally accept the truth that maybe, just maybe, you both were meant to be. Even in disagreement you found a way to each other. Although you would definitely keep your provocations going and Azriel would stay at your feet for anything you did, that was your way of loving and for the first time you were fine knowing what tomorrow would bring.

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[Post-Credit Scene]

The Inner Circle sat around the table, looking perplexed and bewildered after the explosive game night that had just taken place. None of them could quite wrap their heads around what had unfolded. Nestha glanced at Cassjan, who raised an eyebrow, silently communicating his own confusion. Feyre and Rhysand seemed to be the only ones who understood the situation, but none of them made a move to say something as they kept talking to each other in their minds.

-So, did anyone understand what just happened? I mean, they are usually weird around each other but… This weird? It's worrying - The general scratched his head and finally gathered the courage to say something.

-Beats me. The brute is right. But I have to admit, seeing them argue like that is always quite entertaining. It's the only reason I've been coming for the past centuries, honestly - Amren replied with a snarl, eyes rolling as she threw her cards on the table.

-Oh, for sure! It was like watching a drama unfold right in front of us every week. But I can't believe they just bolted like that. Do you think they're okay? - Mor inquired, a mix of amusement and worry kicking in.

-If I had to bet I would say they are killing each other - Cassian said, playing with the deck of cards.

-Or fucking - Nestha chimed in with a laugh - I mean, when I didn't accept the mating bond with Cassian I acted exactly like them. If you don't understand the feeling you might as well hurt the person you hold those feelings for - Everyone seemed to agree as the bets started to grow around the table.

-Knowing those two, they probably needed some time alone to sort things out. Maybe it's an understanding finally kicking in - Rhysand leaned back in his chair, his eyes twinkling with mischief - The group exchanged curious glances, trying to understand their High Lord.

-Well, whatever it is, we can't say it was unimportant. That was probably the most explosive family game night we've ever had - Feyre couldn't help but add with a grin.

Just then, the door to the game room creaked open, and you walked in with Azriel by your side, hand in hand, with smiles on your faces. The Inner Circle's jaws dropped in disbelief as they took in the sight in front of them.

-What the...? How did you...? What? - Cassian sputtered, at a loss for words.

-You know, it's funny how things work out sometimes - Azriel looked around at their stunned faces and chuckled.

-Yeah, we had a little heart-to-heart and sorted some things out. Turns out, we had a lot of misunderstandings to clear up - You and Azriel smiled at each other, making the whole Inner Circle shocked.

-So, you two aren't going to be at each other's throats anymore? - Amren raised an eyebrow, a sly grin forming.

-Oh, we definitely will - You said when you looked back at them, your head finding its way to Azriel's shoulder.

-Just not today - He said and kissed you head, hearing some gasps from the table.

-Are we witnessing a truce? - Mor whispered to the General, who just shuddered, as confused as her.

-Let's just say we have a newfound understanding of each other - Azriel replied, you and him sharing a knowing look.

-Well, that's a relief! We were starting to wonder if you two were going to start a war right here in the Night Court - Feyre laughed, reaching out for her mate's hand.

-Glad to see you've made up. Just... maybe tone it down during future game nights? - Rhysand smiled after clearly speaking mind to mind with the Shadowsinger.

-Okay, so… the rules of the game? - Nestha questioned, her cards still secured in her hands.

-It doesn't matter right now, you can choose it - Az said, making everyone turn their eyes to him. Shock covered every face in the room. Never, in their lives, do they think Azriel would give up on something. They turned their eyes to you, expecting some remark.

-Yeah, you guys can keep going - A wave of gasps and terrorized looks were exchanged between your family - I think Az might be hungry, aren't you?

-I might be. Will you make me something? - He asked, getting so close to you that your noses almost touched.

-It will be my pleasure - You said before dragging him towards the kitchen, not even noticing the mouths of the Inner Circle opened.

-Uh uh, no. I prefer the war. Tell them to come back and fight again, I don't like the way things worked - Mor leaned back in her chair, disbelief covering her posture.

-You know what? I think this interaction was more scary than the Cauldron - Amren said, finally giving up her cards as she threw them on the table.

-Come on, it can't be that bad, right? - All of the older members looked at Nestha with scared faces, even Rhysand, who knew exactly what happened between the two of you - Okay, apparently it is.

-What do we do now? - Feyre finally asked after silence filled the room.

-We hope that this Court doesn't crumble down - That was all that Rhysand said as he began separating the cards again, a whole new game starting that night.

Hi! this is my first time asking but maybe you could do a co-workers and a one night stand for the Acotar bingo with azzy?? like they are both spies for rhys and something happens on a mission orrrr…. idk fluff please :))))

feel free to ignore - i love ur work btw <33

Oh my dear I definitely can

Thanks so much for the reassurance, I'm a people pleaser KEEP COMMENTING COMMENTS THEY ARE MY BIGGEST FUEELLLLLL

Me writing a normal fanfic: 😃

Me 5 seconds after I start creating a whole trauma, past story and a lot of facts that are not exactly necessary to the story: 🥰😍🤩😚💕💖💟💞🤗✨️

When I was writing this I thought: Omg maybe I'm finally ready to write smut (I'm not, the need completely disappeared from me the moment I opened the document)

Pillowtalk

As you and Azriel prepare for yet another mission together to watch the suspect camplords in the Illyrian mountains, you go over your plans meticulously, ensuring you are ready for whatever challenges lie ahead. You and Azriel have created a unique bond over the years, having worked together on numerous missions for the High Lord. Both of you knew how to work together and where your boundaries were laid. It was precisely that that made working with him so easy, no matter the amount of time you spent together, he never ever asked you to take off the mask that usually covered your face.

The journey to the Illyrian mountains is always filled with tension since you know how much Azriel hates his old home. You know you must be discreet to avoid detection. You and Azriel move silently, utilizing your stealth and his powers to blend into the shadows. You keep your senses sharp, alert to any potential danger.

However, even the most carefully laid plans can go awry. During your surveillance, you encounter an unexpected group of hostile Illyrian males who happened to be patrolling in that area. Azriel fights valiantly, but he is fighting against five of the seven that attacked you, and even if he defeats three of them, the other two remaining aim for his wings and cause a serious injury during the wings' leather, leaving him vulnerable and unable to defend himself adequately.

In a split second, you take your decision, and you know you must act swiftly to protect your partner. Without hesitation, you remove your mask, it helps you to maintain silence and prevents the enemies from hearing your breathing. But right now it is only making it difficult for vision to be clear, the fighting usually being Azriel's work.

As you take off the mask it reveals the burn mark that runs from your neck to a portion of your face. It serves as a reminder of a past event that you try to keep hidden from prying eyes. Also, it would work as an easy way for your enemies to recognize you anywhere you went. Even if they didn't remember your face, they would remember the scars, this being the only reason to keep your face a mystery during your missions.

Despite your reservations, you know very well that your identity is a small price to pay to save Azriel. Drawing upon all your strength, you fiercely fight off your remaining attackers, using your skills to ensure you both survive the ordeal.

After the dust settles and the danger has passed, Azriel looks at you with a mixture of awe and concern. He finally sees the face that you had kept concealed for so long. His gaze lingers on the burn mark, but he doesn't pry or ask questions. He knows that you have your reasons for keeping your identity a secret, and he respects your privacy in everything.

You quickly winnow yourself and him to a nearby cabin, paying an offensive amount of gold to the keeper for her to remain silent about your state there. She only nods once and takes you to the main room, running to take medical supplies for your partner.

-Do you need help? - She asks softly, but you can see her nervousness as she looks at the blood.

-No, I can take it from here. Thank you for everything - You dismiss her and she happily gets out of the room and closes the door behind her, leaving you to take care of Azriel's wings, which are already closing their wounds.

As Azriel recovers from his injuries, you stay by his side, tending to his wounds with care and cleaning them at one time or another. As you spend time together during his recuperation, he senses there is more to your burn mark than meets the eye. You can sense his eyes floating to your neck sometimes, but you let him be fully healed before saying anything.

-You know you can just ask, right? - You say as Azriel sits beside you as you look out the window.

-I hope I'm not prying or making you uncomfortable, but I couldn't help but notice your burn mark. It must have been a difficult experience - You take a deep breath, your fingers tracing the edge of the scar absentmindedly - You don't have to share if you don't want to-

-Yes, it was - You replied, your voice carrying a mix of pain and vulnerability - My parents... they weren't the kindest people. They made it clear that they didn't want me and that I was a burden to them - You notice Azriel tracing his own scars, you didn't even notice the moment he took off his gloves.

-I'm so sorry you had to go through that - He says sincerely, a mixture of sympathy and understanding in his eyes.

-When I was young, I believed that if I stayed close to them or if I tried harder, they might change their minds, and start loving me or something. But one day... One day, I was talking to my mother while she was cooking. I didn't realize I was annoying her until she got angry. The next thing I knew, the hot oil spilled on me, and she didn't even try to help, not her, not my father. I was left with this scar after that - You took a deep breath as you felt Azriel's gentle touch tracing the contours of the burn in your neck, a silent gesture of support as he listened intently - I was probably six, maybe seven. It didn't take me long to run away until I found a mercenary. He took me in and trained me. I was supposed to be a mercenary too if Rhysand didn't find me. He hired me after some time and gave my tutor a place to live in Velaris. That's my sad story - You said with a dry laugh, trying to keep the tears that threatened to escape from your eyes. Azriel's heart aches for the pain you endured, and he reaches out to gently touch your face, mirroring the care you showed him during his recovery.

-You are incredibly strong - He says sincerely - To survive such a difficult past and become the person you are now, it takes immense courage.

-And what about yours? We are basically burn buddies - He laughs at that, supporting his back on the window, looking deeply at you as you take his hand from your face and start to trace them - You don't have to tell me if you're not ready, too.

-No, I want to tell you - He replies, his voice steady - You've shared your pain with me, and it's only fair that I do the same. I was the bastard son of an Illyrian lord. For eleven years, I lived with my father, stepmother, and two older half-brothers. They were cruel and treated me like an outcast. They kept me in a cell with no windows or light, letting me out only for an hour a day to see my mother. I was forbidden to train or fly, even though my Illyrian instincts urged me to do so.

You bring your hand up to his arm, bringing him closer to your body as you circle him in a hug, feeling the tension disappearing from his body as he is visibly relaxed in your arms, embracing the warmth and comfort.

-One day, my half-brothers thought it would be fun to see what would happen if they mixed an Illyrian's quick healing gifts with fire. They poured oil on my hands and lit them on fire - Your eyes widened in surprise, not in a million years you would have imagined his story to be like this - The warriors heard my screams and rescued me, but it was too late to save my hands. I was left with these scars, a constant reminder of the cruelty I endured.

-I hope they are all dead - You said suddenly, your voice mixed with a tone you reserve for the ones you torture in the prison.

-One of them. And no, I won't tell you who they are just for you to kill them - He laughs when you ruff in annoyance - If so you would have to tell me who are your parents, so we can have a tie.

-Really? I would gladly do so - He laughs once again, the sound making your heart flutter in happiness. He takes a moment to compose himself before speaking again.

-At eleven, I was dumped in the Illyrian training camp, Windhaven, where I wasn't exactly well received due to my shadowsinging gifts. That's where I met Rhysand and Cassian. Rhysand's mother took me in, just as she did for Cassian. And when Rhysand became the High Lord of the Night Court, I became his spymaster, part of the Inner Circle.

-I'm so sorry for what you went through. But know that you are not defined by your past, it was a lesson it took me some time to understand. You are strong, compassionate, and resilient, a testament to the person you've become. And your scars, just like mine, tell a story of resilience and survival. We should be proud of the people we've become despite our pasts.

-Yes, we should. And I couldn't be prouder of what we've become - He gets out of your embrace, taking your hand in his, reveling in the feel.

-You're right. We make a great team, burn buddies, if so - You hear a chuckle and let your own laugh fill the room - I'm grateful for every mission we've shared, you know.

-I'm grateful too, more than words can say. You've shown me kindness, trust, and loyalty. You've helped me heal in ways I didn't think were possible - Azriel's other hand moved from his side to cup your cheek tenderly, his thumb brushing away a stray tear.

-And you've done the same for me. Your strength and understanding have been my anchor through it all - At that moment, you felt an unspoken connection that went beyond your shared experiences as spies. It was a bond forged through trust, support, and compassion.

As you trace gentle patterns on Azriel's hand, he gazes at you with affection and admiration. He can't help but be captivated by your strength and resilience, your ability to face your past head-on and still maintain a kind and caring heart. Something he couldn't do. His past hunted him as a monster, the shame he felt on his hands growing every time he looked at them. But you?

-You're incredible - He whispers, his voice barely above a breath. You looked up at him, shocked by his sudden words, but your eyes were shimmering with gratitude.

-And you're just as incredible - You reply with a smile playing on your lips - I always admired you. It was nice knowing you always chose me to go with you, it's also nice spending time with you.

-I always chose you because we make a great duo - You murmur "burn buddies" again, but he doesn't laugh this time, his eyes still admiring you. He turns his hand and entangles it with your - You're beautiful. You always told me that, and now I can say it back.

At that moment, the air around you feels charged with an undeniable attraction. You both sense it, the magnetic pull that draws you closer. Without another word, Azriel leans in, capturing your lips in a kiss. Your lips move together in a dance of longing and desire, your emotions pouring into the embrace. The weight of your shared experiences, the understanding of each other's pain, and the warmth of your feelings culminate in this moment.

The kiss deepens, and you lose yourselves in each other, forgetting the world outside as you explore the depths of your needs. Azriel's hand gently cradles your face, his thumb caressing your scarred cheek, while your fingers find their way into his hair, pulling him closer.

Your bodies move closer in the window seat, the space between you disappearing as you seek comfort and intimacy in each other's arms. The tension that had been building between you for years finds its release, and you become lost in the sensation of being with someone who understands you on a level you never thought possible.

As you pull away, your breaths mingling, you meet each other's eyes, the intensity of the moment shining brightly. Without words, you share an unspoken understanding as he starts undoing the stripes and buttons of your armor and you start to take off the layers of his. Your lips connect again as he pulls you to his lap and walks you towards the bed, taking off the rest of your clothes as well as his.

Your heated make-out session evolves into a night filled with passion while you share your bodies, as you find the solace and belonging you've been searching for, a love that heals your wounds and ignites a fire within your hearts. When he looked at the rest of your scars, that went down until your shoulder and took a bit of your collarbone his eyes became feral with lust. From the moment he bent down and kissed each piece of skin that was covered with burn wounds, you knew that you are completely fucked.

After your initial heated encounter, you and Azriel decide that your night together was a product of vulnerability and a need for comfort in the moment. You both acknowledge the dangers of getting involved romantically, especially as spies working in a world filled with secrets and risks.

-We can't afford distractions - Azriel had once said, his voice tinged with concern - Our focus needs to be on the missions and keeping each other safe.

-You're right. We can't let our emotions get in the way of what we do - In that moment you had nodded in agreement, understanding the practicality of his words.

Both of you agree to keep your relationship strictly professional, even though your hearts yearn for more. However, as the days pass, you find it increasingly challenging to resist the pull you feel toward each other. Your missions become more dangerous, and the stakes are higher than ever. During chaos and uncertainty, you find comfort and solace in each other's arms.

It starts with small moments, a touch on the arm here, a lingering glance there. You become each other's safe haven, the one constant in a world filled with unpredictability. And despite your resolve, once you go back to your normal life in Velaris, you find yourselves in each other's bed again, seeking solace in the connection you share. The passion and intimacy between you intensifies with each encounter, and you start to realize that they can't deny the love that has grown between you.

As the days turn into weeks, you find yourselves entangled in each other more times than you could count, each encounter pulling you closer together. You've become inseparable in your free time, if it's you in his studio while he practices his painting, or if it's him in your house while you practice dancing, your lives become intertwined both on and off the field.

The morning sun gently filters through the curtains, casting a warm glow on the room as Azriel stirs awake. Blinking away the remnants of sleep, he finds himself lying beside you in your room once again, a soft smile tugging at the corners of his lips.

He traces his fingers gently along the curves of your body, admiring the lines that define your form. The faint light reveals the outline of your burn mark, a testament to your strength and resilience. Azriel's heart swells with affection for you, knowing the hardships you have endured and the courage you carry within.

As his fingers gently explore, you stir from your slumber, your eyes slowly opening to meet his gaze. You see the adoration in his eyes and the reverence with which he touches you. A blush tinges on your cheeks, but you don't look away, instead, you pull him closer, wanting to feel his touch even more.

-You're awake - You murmur, your voice soft but still rough from the slumber. Azriel leans in, his lips brushing against your forehead before he meets your eyes again.

-Yes, I am. And I can't help but marvel at the sight before me - Your heart flutters at his words, and you intertwine your fingers with him, pulling his hand to your lips to leave a tender kiss.

-You have a way with words, Shadowsinger. But actions speak louder - With a soft chuckle, Azriel leans in, capturing your lips in a deep and loving kiss. Your mouths move in perfect harmony, conveying all the unspoken emotions between you. When you finally break apart, your foreheads rest gently against each other's, your breaths mingling.

-I never expected this - You admit, your voice tinged with wonder - But I'm grateful for every moment we shared.

-As am I. You've brought light into my life, and I can't imagine a future without you - You stay entwined, basking in each other's presence, knowing that you've found something rare and precious.

-What if we sleep in today? I don't think we need to get out of bed - He laughs and leans closer to you, the skin contact makes you shiver - I don't know, it's cold today, maybe we can help each other and warm ourselves up.

-I don't think Rhysand will appreciate it if his two best spies disappeared from his view - But he doesn't make a movement to get out of bed, instead, he starts kissing the back of your neck, slowly going under the covers. That way you know you win the discussion, the same way you did many times before.

Every time you find yourself in Azriel's arms, you feel like you can face the world, one day at a time, knowing that you have his heart to hold onto and a love that burns brighter than any shadow you've ever known. Years of shared missions, trust, and understanding have led you to this moment of realization. You are not just good together as partners, but you have discovered a deeper connection, a love born from empathy and shared experiences.

-Thank you - He comes up suddenly, interrupting his path to your legs - For being here, for understanding - With a soft smile, Azriel brushes a strand of hair away from your face, his voice tender as he speaks - I think we've found something extraordinary in each other.

-I believe you're right, shadow boy - You reply, before the smile completely disappears from your face - But this is not time to be sentimental. First, you eat your snack, and then we can talk about how much we love each other - You push his head under the covers again, hearing his laugh before his mouth finds its way to you.

That stupid promise of a one-time thing was nothing more than a futile attempt to deny the love that had grown between you. You couldn't fight it any longer, your hearts made the decision for yourselves a long time ago. You were partners - mates - in every sense of the word, bound not just by the missions, but by a love that has proven to be stronger than any obstacle in your path.

question bc i keep seeing this and idk if i’m missing something but i’ve seen multiple people write nestas name as nestha. why?? i’m confused :(

Because in Portuguese is Nestha 😀😀😀 I don't know if they change in other languages or what

I even went to check in my book and I SWEAR is written Nestha, I don't know if everyone will understand but here's a picture

friends to lovers with Azriel? they’re both secretly pining after each other and even flirt but it has never gone past that

Fun fact: I received 3 or 4 of the same request of friends to lovers and now I have to think of different stories for each of them (how much do I hate myself? Here's the answer)

One more prompt babies (getting in trouble), send the request for her so I can finish the bingo or I'll never write again 😁😁😁😁😁😁😁😁😁😁😁

Also, please comment on the posts, I get super happy and it definitely makes me go back to Google Docs to finish what I'm currently writing

I Think He Knows

It basically started weeks ago when you were researching something you couldn't even remember what it was that Rhysand asked. You were deep into the books, nothing was making sense in your mind and frustration was starting to set in as you struggled to find the answers you sought. Azriel silently slipped into the library and observed you from the shadows, captivated by the sight of you so concentrated and focused on your work. He noticed the frustration building in you, unable to resist, he stepped forward, revealing himself with his usual quiet grace.

-Need some assistance? - His velvet voice reached your ears, sending a shiver down your spine. You looked up, your eyes locking with his, and you couldn't help but feel a flutter of excitement.

-Well, I wouldn't mind a second opinion on this research - You replied, trying to maintain your composure despite the sudden warmth spreading through your cheeks.

Azriel moved closer, leaning over your shoulder to examine the texts you had been poring over. The close proximity sent your heart racing, and you could feel the heat of his breath on your skin.

-You're looking in the wrong section - He said softly, his fingers brushing against yours as he pointed to a nearby shelf.

Your hands touched, and you both felt a jolt of electricity shoot through you. You glanced up, your eyes meeting his, and for a moment, time seemed to stand still. Azriel's lips quirked into a faint smile, as if he knew the effect he had on you.

-Let me show you - He offered, gesturing for you to follow him.

You walked together through the aisles of books, discussing the research, and exchanging ideas. You found yourself drawn to Azriel's intellect and the way he effortlessly wove his knowledge into the conversation. As you spoke, the flirtatious undertones became more evident. You teased each other playfully, your laughter filling the library like music. It was as if you had known each other for years, despite the fact that this was the first time you had engaged in a real conversation alone.

Usually all your interactions with the Inner Circle had Rhysand's presence. And besides the fact that you considered and was equally considered by all of them as a friend, this was the first time you actually talked alone with Azriel, no need to keep formality or the topic of work getting in the way. The more you flirted, the more you realized how easy it was to be yourself around him. Walls that you had carefully built began to crumble, revealing your true self, vulnerable and unguarded.

The spark of attraction between you was undeniable, and it left both of you surprised and intrigued. It was a dance you hadn't expected to partake in, but neither of you could resist the magnetic pull that drew you closer.

As the night wore on, you reluctantly bid each other farewell, promising to meet again in the library to help each other if necessary. But even as you walked away, your thoughts were consumed by him and only him.

In the days that followed, your flirtatious encounters continued, fueled by a desire you couldn't ignore. Each meeting left you wanting more, and yet you hesitated, unsure of the depths you were diving into. Suddenly you were being invited to family dinners and the Valkyries' training. You weren't sure who exactly you should blame: Rhysand and his necessity of taking you under his wing or Azriel with the need of having you closer to him. Somehow you knew the answer without asking directly.

The Night Court's dinner table was a scene of elegance and camaraderie as the Inner Circle gathered for their nightly meal. Amidst the laughter and casual conversations, Azriel and you found yourselves seated beside each other, eyes locked in a silent promise of something more. Your foot unintentionally brushed against Azriel's calf under the table, sending a thrill through both of you. Azriel's fingers ghosted along the back of your hand, a subtle invitation to continue the game you started playing.

Rhysand and Cassian exchanged bemused glances, sensing the charged atmosphere between their two friends. Feyre tried to hide a knowing smile, while Amren raised an eyebrow, clearly intrigued. You carefully leaned in, your lips so close to Azriel's ear that your warm breath sent shivers down his spine.

-You're playing a dangerous game - You whispered, your voice laden with mischief.

-Danger happens to be my job, dear - Azriel replied, his voice husky and filled with desire.

As the dinner conversation flowed around you, Azriel and you engaged in a subtle dance of seduction beneath the table. Your fingers intertwined, your touch light but electrifying, as you teased each other with playful caresses. You let your fingers trail along Azriel's forearm, relishing the way his muscles tensed beneath your touch. Azriel responded in kind, brushing his thumb across the outside of thigh, deliberate circles that left your craving more.

The rest of the Inner Circle exchanged glances, unable to believe what you were witnessing. Cassian leaned over to Rhysand, a mischievous twinkle in his eye.

-I think we're witnessing the birth of a mating bond - He teased, causing Rhysand to chuckle. Across the table, Mor was trying her best to suppress a grin, while Amren simply rolled her eyes, unimpressed by your antics.

Nestha, always one to relish in mischief, decided to stir the pot. With a sly grin, she looked at Azriel and you at his side, already planning a way to burst the bubble you settle yourselves in.

-So, Shadowsinger, what's the most daring thing you've ever done? Cassian just told his - Her mate looked at her confused, until he realized her plan and agreed along with the rest of the table. Azriel's eyes twinkled with mischief as he slightly turned his gaze towards you.

-Oh, I think I'd rather show than tell - You felt a blush creeping up your cheeks, but you didn't back down.

-And what about you, Rhys? What's the most thrilling thing you've ever experienced that didn't involve your mate? - You turned to Rhysand and asked with a playful glint in your eye. The High Lord only chuckled, sensing the game you were playing.

-Well, it might just be seeing the way Azriel flirts with someone he cares about, it's rather fun, to say the least - He replied, glancing pointedly at his spymaster.

Azriel's lips quirked up in a knowing smile, and he leaned towards you, his voice low and suggestive, as he spoke high enough for everyone at the table to hear.

-Oh, don't worry, my love, I save my best for you - Your heart skipped a beat at his response, but you maintain your composure, turning the tables again. You looked at Cassian, one that looked very amused by the whole interaction.

-Cassian, have you ever been so captivated by someone that you couldn't take your mind off them to the point you simply did and said stupid things all the time? - Cassian grinned, understanding the game and more than willing to play along.

-Well, you see, I have a habit of getting distracted by a certain female warrior with mesmerizing eyes - He replied, winking at Nesta, who rolled her eyes and tried to hide her smile.

-And what about you, Az? Have you ever been so captivated by someone that left you breathless? - Azriel met your gaze with an intensity that sent shivers down your spine.

-Every time I look at you - He answered, his voice soft and sincere. Feyre quickly interrupted the moment to get Nyx who started to cry in his bedroom, cutting out the atmosphere that was building up.

The next day you had to keep working as if nothing changed, even if you and Azriel were becoming more and more shameless at each encounter. The library in the Night Court was always a sanctuary of knowledge, and you found solace amidst the ancient texts and dusty books. The spymaster often changed his plans to find you there, absorbed in the magic of the written word, only to engage in another one of the flirtatious conversations you always lead each other, even if this wasn't exactly the original plan.

In this particular afternoon, you were stretching on your tiptoes, trying to reach a book on the highest shelf. As you strained to grasp it, you felt a familiar presence behind you. A soft, warm breath grazed the back of your neck, sending shivers down your spine. Azriel's velvety voice caressed your ear,

-Need some help? - You turned to find Azriel standing so close that you could feel the heat emanating from his body. Your heart fluttered, but you masked your flustered state with a playful smirk.

-Oh, so you're finally offering to be useful, Shadowsinger? - You teased, your eyes locking with his. A mischievous glint danced in Azriel's eyes as he reached for the book, effortlessly retrieving it from the shelf. Instead of handing it to you, he held it just out of your reach, enjoying the proximity between your bodies.

-I always knew you'd come to appreciate my usefulness - He replied, his voice low and teasing.

You refused to back down, your competitive spirit coming to the surface. You leaned in, closing the distance between you, and attempted to snatch the book from his grasp. But Azriel was too quick, tilting his hand just enough to evade you. Your faces were now mere inches apart, and the tension between you crackled like electricity. With a smoldering look, Azriel brought the book down slightly, just teasingly close to your fingers.

-If you want it, you'll have to work for it - He challenged, his lips quirking into a seductive smile.

Your breath hitched at the playful yet alluring demeanor of the warrior. Determined to match his boldness, you leaned in even closer, allowing your lips to brush against his.

-I don't mind a little challenge - A low growl rumbled in Azriel's throat, and he gave up, handing you the book. But he didn't step back, instead, he closed the remaining distance between you, pressing his body against yours, creating an intoxicating blend of heat and desire.

Your eyes locked once more, and the air around you crackled with tension. Without thinking, Azriel's fingers grazed your cheek, tracing a path along your jawline. Yourheart pounded wildly, the sensation of his touch igniting a fire within you.

-You have no idea what you do to me - Azriel admitted huskily, his voice thick with desire.

-Show me - You whispered, unable to resist the pull you felt towards him any longer.

In that moment, the world around you ceased to exist. The library faded away, leaving only the two of you enveloped in a haze of passion and longing. With an intensity you had both kept bottled up for too long, you surrendered to each other's embrace, your lips meeting in a fiery kiss that ignited a love that had been simmering beneath the surface.

Your whispered affections and tender touches among the books unveiled the truth you had both been hiding – that you were more than friends, that your souls had found your match. Your lips couldn't seem to snap away from his, the book long forgotten in the ground as you entangled your hands in his hair and pulled him closer.

-... Are you somewheEAHHH - Gwyn's scream made you separate from Azriel in a flash, her eyes almost popping out of her head as she took in the scene in front of her, all the priestess around stepping closer to understand the commotion - Clotho is asking if you found the book - She pointed behind her, a smile playing in her as the Shadowsinger quickly bid you goodbye and ran away. You threw the book at your friend when she started to laugh - I just want to see how the training is going to be tomorrow.

And honestly? You wanted to know too.

Training sessions in the House of the Wind were usually filled with a lot of matches between the girls and intense training, but today was different. You and Azriel found yourselves paired together as a matter of destiny, the air around you charged with an electric tension that couldn't be ignored. As you sparred, the other Valkyries couldn't help but watch, completely shocked by the intense flirtation that unfolded before them. Gwyneth being the one pinpointing the looks you threw to him.

Your eyes locked with Azriel's as you circled each other, each movement purposeful and tantalizing. He could see the fire burning in your eyes, and it only fueled his desire to provoke you further . With a smirk, he raised an eyebrow, a silent challenge, inviting you to make the first move.

You didn't disappoint. In a swift motion, you lunged, your blades dancing gracefully through the air. Azriel effortlessly parried your strikes, your weapons clashing with a resounding echo. But beneath the fierce combat, there was an undercurrent of something more, a seductive dance of pure desire from the last day. Azriel leaned in close, his breath ghosting over your ear as you defended his attack.

-You are fighting with such passion today, what happened? - He laughed when you pushed him far from you with a kick - It's almost intoxicating - A shiver ran down the reader's spine as you met his gaze, unyielding.

-I'm just getting started - You replied, your voice dripping with provocation - Someone started something and couldn't finish. Let's see if you can end this fight at least.

Your banter continued as you moved in sync, each anticipating the other's moves. The sexual tension between you was palpable, and the other Valkyries couldn't tear their eyes away, their training momentarily forgotten. Azriel's wings unfurled slightly, showcasing his strength and power.

-You know - He suddenly said, his voice deep and alluring, but not low enough to not let your public hear, ever the exhibitionist he was - I could show you a few moves that aren't part of the regular training regimen - Your cheeks flushed when you heard the gasps from the other females, but you didn't back down. Instead, you leaned in even closer, your body inches from his.

-And what kind of moves are those, Shadowsinger? - You purred, your tone daring him to reveal his thoughts.

-The kind that leaves you breathless - He teased, the double entendre not lost on the watching Valkyries when some of them let out small screams of excitement.

- I bet you could teach me something new, anyway - A wicked grin tugged at the corners of your mouth when he growled after your words, trying to strike you down.

The training session continued with a fervor, the intensity between you and Azriel growing with each exchange. Your bodies moved in harmony, pushing each other to new limits. At one point, you managed to disarm Azriel and pin him to the ground, and for a brief moment, you had the upper hand. But Azriel didn't seem bothered by it; instead, he wore an approving smile.

-Impressive - He murmured, his voice dripping with admiration.

Your closeness was almost suffocating, the desire between you reaching a breaking point. The other Valkyries exchanged glances, unsure if they should intervene or let the fiery tension run its course.

As the training session came to an end, you and Azriel stood face to face, breathing heavily from the exertion. The intensity in your eyes was undeniable, and you both knew that this was just the beginning of something. The Valkyries couldn't help but gasp as Azriel leaned in, his lips dangerously close to yours.

-You have no idea of what you've done to me, the hunger you awake - He whispered, his voice dark and alluring.

-If it's any closer to what I'm feeling then you better be prepared to satisfy it, Shadowsinger - With a playful smile, you replied before you stepped away from the training grounds, leaving the other Valkyries in a state of awe and disbelief. Your flirtatious dance had left a remarkable message between you and Azriel, one that you would try to ignore as best as you could, even against your will.

Weeks of tension and flirting had passed between you and Azriel. The subtle glances, teasing words, lingering touches, and sometimes a kiss or other had kept both of your hearts racing. Yet, neither of you dared to take the leap beyond your friendship. One evening, after a gathering at the Town House, you found yourself seeking solace and guidance from Feyre, always the good listener High Lady. She smiled knowingly as you spilled your heart out, admitting your crush on Azriel and detailing the last few weeks of encounters with him, not knowing when to point out the sudden change in your friendship with him.

-You know, I don't think he's disinterested in you. Azriel is just cautious, especially with matters of the heart - Feyre reassured you, caressing your head that was in her lap.

-I mean, he's obviously not disinterested in me. The thing is, does he want a relationship or just this weird kissing friendship we are doing? I think he knows I like him, it's impossible to not know. Even Nyx confirmed, he called me auntie, it's because I'm gonna marry his uncle, right? - She laughed at you, and you playfully smack her arm - I'm being serious. Solve this problem, you are the High Lady, you're supposed to be serious when one of your subjects needs help.

-Do you want a relationship with him, darling? - You stopped to think about her question, the moments you spent with Azriel popping in your head, before and after the mess you created, a smile growing in your face at the memories.

-Yes. Definitely - You whispered, receiving a smile from Feyre as well, her eyes shining with some suspicious glint behind them.

-Then tell him. He might be waiting for your confession too - You quickly nodded, giving her a kiss on the cheek before getting up from your spot.

Feeling a bit more encouraged, you returned to your quarters, unaware that Azriel had overheard the entire conversation from the shadows. His heart pounded in his chest as he realized the depth of your feelings for him, and he knew it was time to act over his own.

Before you could even close the door behind you, Azriel stepped out of the darkness and into your room. Startled, you turned to face him, but before you could speak, he gently closed the door and pinned you against the wood with a mixture of intensity and tenderness. His hazel eyes bore into yours, searching for any sign of hesitation.

-I've known about your feelings - He admitted in a husky whisper - And I've been a fool for not making a move sooner - A shiver ran down your spine as his warm breath caressed your skin.

-Azriel - You managed to say, your heart racing with anticipation. He cupped your face with his hand, his thumb stroking your cheek softly.

-I've been in love with you too, but I was scared. Scared of losing our friendship, scared of hurting you, of making something wrong, of you changing your mind, I don't know - He confessed. You placed your hand over his heart, feeling it race beneath your touch.

-I don't want to lose you either - You could only admit, your voice filled with vulnerability as you couldn't say anything else.

-You won't - Azriel assured you, his voice steady but full of emotion - I promise to cherish and protect what we have, and I'll prove my devotion to you everyday from now on, if you let me - You could only agree under his eyes, your body heating at each word.

With that, he leaned in, closing the distance between you and capturing your lips in a tender, passionate kiss. The world around you melted away once again as you fully surrendered to the feelings you had kept hidden for so long.

Your hands explored each other's bodies gently, reveling in the newfound intimacy between you. Azriel's touch was both passionate and cautious, showing his care for you. As you deepened the kiss, you knew that this moment would mean the world from now on.

For the bingo, could you do friends to lovers with Azriel? Also, I love your writing!

First of all, thank you very much, I really appreciate this type of comments about my writing, it makes me so happy and I always feel motivated 🥺🥺🥺🥺🥺

NOW

I was on my normal Taylor Swift moment and BOOM she said "Damn, never seen that color blue" and I knew I was done from now on if I didn't write something for Azriel with this song 🥹

Here we are, thank you

Delicate

As the night unfolds at Rita's, you and the Inner Circle are enjoying yourselves together, laughing and sharing stories with each other. The atmosphere is lively, and the free bottles of wine are definitely contributing to the merriment. Since Rita's birthday when Rhysand gifted her a ridiculous amount of wine that she was sure she couldn't sell she's been proposing games every Saturday night and obviously the most eager to participate were you and your friends.

Tonight the idea is to go up to the stage and share one secret with everyone in the bar. If they think the secret is good enough they'll scream and you can go back to your table with a bottle of wine. It started pretty light, some nonsense secrets that people only laughed at and no one took a bottle. However, as the night progresses, the secrets start to get deeper and more personal, granting a lot of people an unhealthy amount of alcohol in their bodies.

You and your friends decided to participate too, knowing that whatever you said up there would make people scream. After each member of the Inner Circle goes up on stage and reveals a dumb little secret, it's finally your turn. With a slightly tipsy but determined gait, you take the stage, capturing everyone's attention, including Azriel's, who's watching you with curiosity but a bit of concern, taking your itty bitty drunk state.

You hesitate for a moment, thinking about the secret you wanted to reveal. I mean, now everyone in Rita's knew they couldn't use the table in the House of the Wind after Nestha's confession. Yours wouldn't hurt that much, right? So you take a deep breath and begin to speak. You started light, recounting the years you've spent together with your friends, the adventures you've shared, and the unbreakable bond you've formed as friends. A story that made everyone happy.

Until you finally pulled the card from your sleeve, telling everyone the day you met Azriel and how you felt. The friendship you created with him and how exactly your feelings started to develop after the years you spent together. The funny moments and the sad ones too, the love you felt for everyone in the Inner Circle would never compare to how you felt about the Shadowsinger. And you meant it, you are in love with him, for the cauldron's sake! You said you are content with being his best friend, but you love him so much that sometimes you think you might explode.

Your declaration of love is met with stunned silence by the whole bar and then a round of applause from the Inner Circle, who had no idea about your feelings until this moment. Rita grants you three bottles of wine at once, your state not making you understand exactly why but you accept it gladly, trembling back to the table with your friends.

Azriel's heart skips a beat as he listens to your words, trying to process the depth of your emotions. He's touched by your honesty, damn, he feels every bit the same for you, but he also knows that you had quite a bit to drink, which might have influenced your decision to share this with everyone. Especially when you don't react to the provoking of your friends and just play along, not quite comprehending why everyone was so excited but happy to be happy with them.

As the applause finally dies down, and the rest of your group opens another bottle, Azriel quickly stands up, thanking everyone for the entertaining night and requesting their understanding that you might be a little overwhelmed right now and that he would take you back home. You protested and tried to sit back, only for him to take you on his shoulder, guiding you out of the noisy bar and into the cool night air.

Once outside, Azriel lets you down and wraps his arm around your shoulder, supporting you as you walk. Saying that going home on foot would help you sober up a little bit.

-You know, you didn't have to do that - He says gently, concern evident in his voice - Anything you said would be good enough for them.

-I know - You funnily reply, your cheeks flushed with both embarrassment and alcohol, your words getting out tripping from your mouth - But I just... I couldn't keep it in any longer. I had to tell you. I love you this much - You let go of him just to open your arms wide and show him the amount of love you had - Maybe even more. It would need the whole court to open their arms to show you how much - He laughs at you and makes you walk again, holding you close to him the whole way.

-You mean the world to me, do you know that? I never want to lose you, I think I might die if I do - Your shocked expression makes him laugh again, the sound fluttering your heart again.

-No, don't die, Azriel, please - You hug him tightly and then place a hand on his cheek - I don't want to lose you ever ever. And even if you don't feel the same way, I need you to know - Azriel's expression softens, and he gently takes your hand, squeezing it reassuringly.

-Let's talk about this tomorrow when you're not under the influence of gallons of wine. I promise we'll figure things out, okay? - You only nod, trusting him completely, and allow Azriel to lead you to the Town House.

Back in your room, you found a way to stumble into every single fitment in every single room you went through, laughing each time your body hit something different. Azriel guides you to your bathroom with gentle care. Your steps are unsteady, and your words are still a bit slurred, a clear indication of how much alcohol was still in your body, and that the walk did nothing to sober you up. Despite your inebriated state, you kept trying to talk to him, but your words were sometimes muddled and difficult to comprehend, which only made Azriel agree and continue to take you to your destination.

-I hope you're not mad at me. I know it's a delicate matter to you and I said it in front of everyone in the whole Velaris - You turned to him when he made you sit in the tub edge while he turned on the water and filled it with shower salts and scents - Is it cool that I said all that? Maybe I crossed the line. Sometimes I wonder if you would ever look at me and think about me the same way that I do. Is it too soon to have this conversation? I feel like I made a mess of myself now and-

-Shh, it's okay. You don't need to explain anything - Azriel whispers, his voice soothing - We'll talk in the morning when you're feeling better. Right now, let's get you cleaned up and ready for bed.

He helps you undress and assists you into the tub, his gaze never lowering for too long from your face. Making sure the water is warm and comforting he washes your hair and helps you clean your body when you distract yourself with the bubbles floating in the water or when you have sudden low peaks of energy and simply lies your head on his chest and lets him do all the work - that he gladly does.

After the shower, Azriel wraps a fluffy towel around you, gently patting you dry until you say you can do it alone. He hands you a glass of water that he summoned from the house, encouraging you to drink it to help with the inevitable hangover. You comply, taking small sips at times while he dresses you in some of the sleeping clothes he found in your massive wardrobe, his eyes still filled with affection and yours with gratitude.

-Will you stay with me tonight? - You ask with a plea in your voice once he settles you in your bed, now that he dressed you in a nightgown and dried your hair.

-Of course - Azriel replies without hesitation, his heart aching at the sight of your vulnerability. He climbs into bed beside you, pulling the covers over you both, cocooning you in his warmth. He wraps his arms around you gently, holding you close as you snuggle into his embrace, feeling his scent and the heat that irradiates from his skin.

-You're my best friend - You murmur, your words still slightly slurred - I'm glad I told you how I feel. Or everyone at Rita's. Even if... even if it's complicated.

-I'm glad you told me too. And I promise, we'll figure this out together. But right now, rest. We can talk more tomorrow when you're feeling better - Azriel brushes a soft kiss on your forehead, slowly wrapping you with his wings as if testing the territory.

As the night wears on, your breathing steadies, and you drift into a peaceful slumber in Azriel's arms. He stays awake for a while, watching over you, his mind a whirlwind of emotions and thoughts. He cares and loves you so much that his heart aches sometimes, and your confession has brought a mix of joy and trepidation to his mind.

In the quiet darkness, he decides that whatever the future holds for him, he will always cherish your friendship and be there for you, just as he has always been. And as he finally succumbs to sleep, he hopes that the morning will bring clarity and understanding for both of you, strengthening the bond that has held you together for so long.

The morning light begins to filter into the room, gently rising you from your slumber. As you open your eyes, memories from the previous night flood back, and you can't help but cringe with embarrassment at your drunken confession and all of the conversations that followed after. You try to cover your face with your hands, wishing you could disappear, but you're met with a strong pair of arms holding you still in place. Tracing the tattoos you know so well you realize who exactly is holding you in your bed. Azriel stirs beside you, sensing the movements you were making. He brushes a hand over your back soothingly to calm you down.

-Hey, there's no need to be so hard on yourself, slow down a bit - he whispers softly.

You finally gather the courage to look at him, expecting disappointment or awkwardness in his expression. Instead, you only find warmth and understanding in his eyes.

-I remember everything - You admit, voice tinged with shame - I'm sorry, Az. I must have made a complete fool of myself. And you probably felt so embarrassed - Azriel lifts your chin gently, causing you to meet his gaze directly, his touch not letting you look away.

-You have nothing to be sorry for - He says earnestly - Last night, you were just being honest about your feelings. I value that honesty, and I value you. It doesn't change anything between us.

-But... but I was drunk, and I told so many things about us, things that no one knew - You stammered, your cheeks flushing with embarrassment.

-Yes, you were drunk, I acknowledge that, but your feelings were still genuine. And to be honest, I've been wrestling with my own feelings too - Azriel smiles softly, his thumb brushing against her cheek.

-You have? - Your eyes widen, hope flickering in your heart.

-I didn't want to make any rash decisions last night, but this is something I've known since the first time I met you. I care about you deeply, and I've been in love with you for a long time too - Your heart skips a beat at his confession, a wave of relief washing over you.

-You have? - You ask, needing to hear those words again.

-Yes - Azriel replies, his voice steady - I love you too - Unable to contain your emotions any longer, you throw your arms around him, hugging him tightly.

-I was so scared I'd ruin everything - You admit, your voice muffled against his shoulder. Azriel holds you close, pressing a gentle kiss to your forehead.

-You could never ruin anything between us. I cherish our friendship on top of everything, but I've come to realize that what we should have is something even deeper. I want to explore this with you, if you're willing to - Tears of joy and relief gather in your eyes as you pull back to look at him.

-I want that too - You say, voice filled with love and happiness - I want to see where this takes us.

-Then let's take it one step at a time. No need to rush anything. We'll figure it out together, just like we always do - Azriel smiles, his hand cupping your cheek tenderly.

-Thank you for being understanding and for not pushing me away - You say gratefully, kissing the palm of his hand that were holding you. He slowly leans in, pressing a soft kiss to your lips.

In that moment, you and Azriel were embarking on a new chapter of your relationship, one filled with love, trust, and the knowledge that you have been each other's best friends and confidantes all along only to become the best of lovers. And honestly, you weren't feeling any bit of nervousness, the years you spent growing your friendship making you sure that you wouldn't get out of this situation hurting. Actually, you were sure you wouldn't get out of this situation. Which you were completely content about.

-I could never push you away - He whispers, your foreheads resting together - You mean too much to me.

next morning with azriel where they both love each other but are idiots so she ends up trying to leave but is caught by the whole inner circle for breakfast and so she ends up staying the whole day with a lotta fluff?

I loved this one so much that I feel ridiculous 😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭

But oh gods how long it took me to find a song, I thought I was going insane

Don't worry, my loves, I'll do every request, I just need to finish the bingo and I'll start working in everything else

We still have One night stand and getting in trouble, send the character (please give a little idea 🥹) and I'll write it

Make You Mine

The sun slowly rose upon Velaris, casting a warm glow through the window of Azriel's bedroom, as you woke up from your deep sleep you found yourself entangled in Azriel's arms. You had spent yet another night with him, enjoying his kisses and warmth. You and Azriel have been going back and forth with one another, months of pure flirting and hot nights, followed by warm and fun days at his side. However, in the light of day during your normal routines, your insecurities and fears crept back in, making you hesitant to express your true feelings. It was hard to admit your love for him and risk being dismissed. Not just by him but, oh gods, his family. The most powerful people in Prythian united in one solid relationship definitely felt very intimidating.

As Azriel stirred awake, slowly getting out of his slumber state, he found you trying to slip out of his bed quietly, your cheeks flushing with embarrassment as you tried to find your clothes in the middle of the mess you made yesterday. He reached out, gently tugging you back into his embrace, making you fall back into his bed while he pulled the covers up again.

-Where do you think you're going? - He whispered, his eyes shut and a soft smile playing on his lips.

-I thought maybe I should go before anyone sees me - You stammered, avoiding his intense gaze - It's past Cassian's waking hour. If I'm fast enough I think I can still go out - Azriel's heart ached at the thought of you leaving, especially when all he wanted was for you to stay.

-You don't have to leave, you know. You can stay if you want - He cupped your cheek, his scarred thumb caressing your skin, making you shiver with the sensation - I can give him an excuse and stay here with you for the rest of the day. You know, working.

-I know what kind of work you're talking about - You laughed as he buried his face in your neck, hiding his blushing face.

-Can you blame me? - He asked sheepishly, wrapping an arm around your waist and tugging you even closer.

-You wouldn't mind? - He chuckled softly, pulling one of your legs on top of him.

-Of course not. I want you here with me - Relieved, you nodded and settled back into his embrace, your head resting against his chest.

You lay like that for a while, basking in the warmth of his presence, content to just be together. However, the moment was completely interrupted when a knock on the bedroom door startled you both. Before you could even react, the door swung open, and the rest of the Inner Circle barged in.

Rhysand, Feyre, Cassian, Nestha, Mor, and even Amren stood there, smirking at the sight of the two of you tangled in bed. You felt your face blushing furiously, burying your head inside the covers and in Azriel's chest, while he tried to regain his composure, hiding your naked form from his family.

-Well, well, well, what do we have here? - Rhys teased, a mischievous glint in his eyes - Looks like someone had quite the night.

-Don't worry, lovebirds. We won't tell anyone - Cassian let out a boisterous laugh, and Mor winked at them playfully after she attempted a joke. Amren merely rolled her eyes, but there was a hint of amusement in her expression.

-We're not here to tease you, though that's always fun. We wanted to meet Azriel's girlfriend properly - She said while trying to have a proper look at you.

-Um, hi. I'm not Azriel's girlfriend but it's nice to meet all of you - You peeked up from your hiding spot, your cheeks still pink.

-Oh, come on. Cass has been seeing you come in and out of the House at least five times a week. We just never got the chance to come here fast enough to peek at you - Feyre said excitedly, having fun at your surprised expression - Apparently, you both slept in and we gathered ourselves as fast as we could. When I got here I feared you were leaving since I heard you were getting up. I'm glad Az convinced you to stay.

-How exactly did you hear our conversation? I put sound shields in my room every time she's here.

-We listened in your mind - Rhysand explained as his mate smiled in shame, pink dusting in her cheeks - I think it's sweet that you let your mental shields down when she's around, it means you trust her.

-Okay, we need to have a conversation about not getting in my head and listening to my conversation, but first, can you please get out of my room so we can put our clothes on and eat breakfast? - Azriel pointed out and you covered your head with the pillow, feeling the embarrassment getting over you again.

-You don't need to dress up if you don't want to - Nestha said and Mor agreed with her with excitement.

-Nestha! - Cassian barked before laughing at his mate.

-What? I was going to do us all a favor - She mumbled before stepping out of the room, being followed by the whole Inner Circle, each one sending a different wink at you.

-We don't have to go down there if you don't want to - Azriel said after everyone closed the door and he made sure his shields were up.

-I don't think I can run away from them anymore - You got up from the bed, searching for one of the dresses you left in his room, making sure to swing your hips more than necessary.

-I don't think I want to go down there anymore - The male said in a growl, making you giggle while dressing yourself - I know you didn't want to meet them yet. We never even talked about a relationship, damn. I'm so sorry, I should've let you go away before - He dropped himself in bed again, feeling deeply sad with the possibility of you wanting to never see him again.

-Nonsense. I'm not mad or anything like that - You threw yourself on top of him, already dressed in one of the many blue gowns you owned. Blue was always your favorite color anyway, only gaining a new meaning after you met Azriel - Put on your clothes. I might be scared of your family but I will be even more when they start to follow me on the street if I miss this breakfast.

He laughed at you, peppering small kisses in your mouth before getting dressed up, extending a hand to take you down in the dining room. The Inner Circle did not exited to gather around you the moment you sat down at the table with them, eager to know every detail about your and Azriel's relationship. Excitement sparkled in their eyes as they bombarded you with questions, making you chuckle nervously at their enthusiasm.

-So, how did you two meet? - Cassian asked, leaning in eagerly.

-We crossed paths during one of his missions. I was in the bookstore where I work and Azriel swooped in, totally bloodied, and hurt and I offered him help. The rest, as they say, is history.

-Ah, I can imagine Az swooping in like a shadow into your life - Rhysand smirked playfully, receiving only a tired stare from his brother.

-And what's your favorite thing about him? - Mor inquired with a grin.

-Oh, there are so many things I like about him. But one thing that stands out is his unwavering loyalty and how he always makes me feel safe - Your gaze shifted to Azriel, who was sitting on your side, his expression soft but protective.

-Have you told him you love him yet? - Amren asked, always the direct one.

-Well, actually, I'm not-

-Please, look at them, if they didn't say yet in words it's on the way they act around each other - Feyre pointed out, Azriel's arm around your shoulders only proving her words - But I think they both know.

-They better know. Az, you're a lucky guy - Rhysand chuckled.

The questions continued for a while, with the Inner Circle genuinely curious and invested in your - still nonexistent - relationship. They asked about your favorite activities together, and memorable moments, and even teasingly inquired about your private moments. Through it all, you answered everything with good humor, feeling the warmth of acceptance from this quirky and caring group, wondering how you could ever have felt fear of them since they all looked like a big and weird family.

However, after a while, Azriel sensed you might be getting overwhelmed by the attention. He got closer to you and pulled out your chair, wrapping a protective arm around your waist as he made you get up from your place.

-Alright, alright, that's enough interrogation for now. Let's give her a break - You only chuckled, feeling grateful for his consideration.

-Thank you, Az - You smiled at all of them, getting closer to your partner.

-We're just excited for you, that's all. You're like family to us already. So sweet - Rhysand winked.

-Thank you very much for the consideration, I loved meeting all of you - Azriel's grip on you tightened at your words, happy that you liked his little piece of heaven, and he pressed a gentle kiss to your forehead.

-Come on, let's get out of here - He whispered, leading you away from the playful chaos of the Inner Circle when all of them cheered at your interaction.

As you walked hand in hand, you couldn't help but feel overwhelmed with happiness. You had found not only love but a group of friends who welcomed you with open arms. Damn, you just admitted that you're in love with Azriel. He took you to an open area and found a moment of tranquility on the balcony, enjoying the fresh air and each other's company. As you stood there, wrapped in his embrace, laughter echoed from the house, and the sound of footsteps approached the balcony. Before you knew it, a joyful group of females from the Inner Circle appeared, faces beaming with excitement. You shot up from your place in Azriel's arms and he muffled a groan, earning giggles from the group.

-Hey, you two lovebirds! Sorry to interrupt, but we have plans for the lovely lady - Mor announced playfully, grinning from ear to ear.

-Oh, um, plans? What kind of plans? - You blinked in surprise, not quite expecting this sudden intrusion.

-We're taking you out for a shopping day and lunch with the girls. It's time to get to know you better - Amren stepped forward with a mysterious glint in her eye - It's a family tradition, you can't deny it.

-Consider this your official initiation into the Inner Circle - Rhysand, who had an amused smirk on his face, added as he stood behind his mate, a hand on her waist.

-Oh, and don't worry. We'll have you back before Az even notices you're gone - Cassian chimed in, wrapping an arm around your shoulders.

-Wait, you're taking her out without even asking me? - Azriel's protective instincts flared up, not quite ready to let you go just yet.

-Relax, darling. It's just a girls' day out. We promise to take good care of her - Mor playfully patted Azriel's cheek.

-It's okay, Az. I'll be fine with them. Besides, I bet it'll be fun! - You stepped into the conversation, knowing very well he wouldn't let you go before hearing from your mouth that you were okay with it.

-Alright, but take good care of her. And bring her back in one piece - Azriel hesitated for a moment, but he knew he could trust his friends.

-Of course! Don't you even worry, she'll come back safe and fully working - Mor exclaimed, linking her arm with yours and practically dragging you away as she winnowed you out, leaving Azriel standing there, watching you go. He felt a mix of emotions, from protectiveness, anxiety, and a strange sense of pride for you being accepted into this tight-knit group.

As the day progressed, Azriel received a few playful messages from Mor that Feyre sent to him through his mind, sometimes she even sent some images of you trying on clothes, laughing, and seemingly having a wonderful time with them. Each memory and message warmed his heart, reassuring him that you were in good hands.

As the day with the females continued, you found yourselves lounging comfortably near a candy shop next to the Sidra, chatting and laughing together. As the conversation flowed, the questions took a playful turn, testing the waters of your newfound intimacy with them and they all shared experiences.

-Alright, ladies, how about we play a little game of Truth or Dare without the boys? But let's make it spicy! - Mor, with her characteristic cheekiness, leaned forward with a wicked grin.

The other girls giggled, intrigued by the idea. You felt a mix of excitement and apprehension, not quite sure what you were getting yourself into.

-Truth or Dare, new girl? - Amren asked you with a glimmer of mischief in her eyes.

-Truth - Knowing you were among friends, you decided to play along.

-We know our boy Azriel has his little dirty secrets. So… Have you and Azriel ever... Experimented with anything... Adventurous in the bedroom? - Amren only smirked, gaining a lot of screams from the other females that were just as curious as her.

-Uh, well, um... Maybe - Your cheeks flushed bright red as you stammered - Yes. Definitely. A lot - The girls burst into playful laughter, their amusement evident. You tried to hide your embarrassment, but you couldn't help feeling shy under their scrutiny.

-Oh, come on. Spill the details! - Nestha chimed in, seeming to be jumping up and down from her seat in excitement.

-No way, I can't talk about that! - You practically screamed, covering your face with your hands as the redness kept growing in your cheeks.

-Oh, come on, we're all adults here. You can share with us - Morrigan said, basically jumping on top of you.

They all continued to nudge and tease you, trying to get you to reveal more, but you remained steadfast, maintaining your privacy on the matter. Oh, gods, there were things that if someone from the outside heard they would definitely fear you. As the teasing continued, you couldn't help but feel a mix of embarrassment and amusement. You realized that the Inner Circle was merely having fun, and there was no judgment behind their curiosity. You knew they were just trying to create a playful atmosphere, but you still found it hard to share such intimate details.

-Alright, alright, enough about you. Now, let's talk about our dear Azriel - During a lull in the teasing, Mor grinned like a little viper.

-Truth or Dare, Nes? - Feyre asked,

-Dare, obviously - Nestha smirked confidently.

-I dare you to tell us one thing you find most attractive about Azriel - Nestha chuckled at her sister, considering the question.

-One thing, huh? Well, aside from the obvious - She gestured a big space with her hands - I'd say it's his thighs. Every time I see him in training I try to understand if I want to have it or if I want to sit on them.

-I agree. That little devil knows very well what he's doing and he sits with open wide legs like: "You can watch and sit on it but you'll never have it", it's ridiculous! - You didn't even realize you said it out loud until you saw the other girls nodding in agreement, their admiration for Azriel evident. It was then that you realized that you weren't the only one who held a special place for Azriel in her mind. You only chuckled and brushed it off, knowing damn well how hard it is to not fall in love with him.

By the end of the day, you felt even more connected to the Inner Circle. You realized that they were not only Azriel's friends now but her friends as well. Their playful banter and genuine interest in your life made you feel accepted and cherished.

When you finally returned, Azriel was waiting at the door, trying to act nonchalant but failing miserably. You practically ran to him and wrapped your arms around his neck.

-We're back, and I had an amazing time! - You told him to ease his nerves, beaming up at him.

-I'm glad you had fun - Azriel couldn't help but smile back, relieved and happy to see you safe and happy, seeming so chill around his family.

As the night stretched on, the Inner Circle continued to round you everywhere you went, determined to explore every facet of Azriel's relationship. From your favorite food, to your favorite book, and your favorite court, they asked for everything. Suddenly, as dinner time started to approach and Rhysand pulled out the bottles of wine, Mor, never one to shy away from pushing boundaries, smirked as she posed her next question.

-Alright, my darlings, how about some role-playing? We did it with our new guest already but now we have the whole gang together - She looked at you deeply, her smile never leaving her face - Truth or Dare, Az?

-Dare - He chose, knowing exactly which dare she was going to propose, already getting up from his seat and pulling you with him.

-I dare you to show us how you'd flirt with each other if you were complete strangers meeting for the first time - Mor said with a twinkle in her eye - None of us met each other in a simple scenario, so it's nice to pretend. They all have done it before.

The challenge intrigued you, and you decided to play along. He took a moment to compose himself before approaching you as if you were strangers meeting at a party. With a smoldering look, he introduced himself with a charming smile, making you blush and giggle. You stayed in character as you talked back and everyone laughed at your little theater when you rejected him.

-Have you two ever snuck away during a party to have some alone time? Now I'm pretty sure that every time Azriel ran away from our game nights because of some "emergencies" you were the emergency - Cassian, who enjoyed stirring the pot, raised an eyebrow and pointed at you.

-Maybe once or twice - Azriel couldn't help but chuckle, feeling a little bashful - Guilty as charged.

The Inner Circle hooted and cheered, reveling in the playful and candid nature of the game. The evening was filled with laughter, affectionate teasing, and a growing sense of intimacy among them all.

-Truth or Dare, lovebirds? - Amren, who had been quietly observing, decided to add her own provocative twist.

You chose "Dare" without hesitation, eager to keep the momentum going.

-I dare you to kiss Azriel in a way that will make his heart skip a beat - Amren said, a hint of a smile playing on her lips. As you turned to him, your eyes were smoldering with intent.

-Watch this - You leaned in slowly, lips brushing against his ear before you whispered and then pressed a lingering, passionate kiss to his lips. Azriel's heart thundered in his chest, his arousal unmistakable. The room seemed to fade away, leaving only the two of you in your private bubble of desire and affection.

-Alright, alright, that's enough of a show for today. It's my turn. Truth or Dare, Az?

-Truth - Azriel took a deep breath, his senses still reeling from the kiss while he still looked at you, eyes never leaving yours.

-Do you remember the first time you realized you were in love with her? - Rhysand smirked.

You looked at him terrified, your heart fluttering with anticipation and fear. The room fell silent as Azriel's eyes kept looking at yours, from the thousand times you tried to tell the Inner Circle about the truth of your relationship with Azriel you were met with deaf ears. And now, with Azriel's hand still on your waist from the previous kiss and his eyes glued on yours, you couldn't feel more nervous. You loved him, deeply, but did he?

-It was during a mission. I was surrounded, and I thought I might not make it out alive. At that moment, all I could think about was her safety, her happiness, and the possibility of never getting to see her smile again. I didn't think about myself or my safety, I didn't fight there to get out alive for me, I did it for her because I knew she would be sad if I didn't go to her bookstore again to give her another treat or organize every single book she left for later or just stay in the corner looking at her while she cataloged every new book. It was then that I knew I loved her.

A collective "aww" echoed through the room, and you felt tears of happiness welling in your eyes. You leaned in, capturing his lips in a tender kiss, conveying all the love and affection you felt for him.

Eventually, as the night turned into dawn, everyone decided to call it a night, retiring from the dining room to sleep. The Inner Circle looked exhausted but happy, their hearts filled with the love and joy of finally meeting someone special for Azriel that loved him the way he deserved. Only they knew how hard it was to find someone who would treat him right.

As you sat down in Azriel's bed again, you only extended a hand to him as he took it and threw himself over your body. You hugged him tightly, smelling his scent as you dipped your nose into his hair, its softness always surprising you. He took in your hands, getting up from his position to look in your face, his eyes searching yours.

-I hope they didn't overwhelm you today - He said sincerely, worried about your well being.

-No, not at all. I actually had a great time - You smiled softly, getting a smile from him in return.

-I'm glad - He whispered, brushing a strand of hair away from your face - And about this morning, when I said you could stay, I meant it. You never have to leave unless you want to - Your heart flutters, your fears melting away under the warmth of his words.

-I don't want to leave. Not now, not ever - His face broke into a radiant smile, and without another word, he leaned in, capturing your lips in a tender kiss. It was a simple yet useful way of saying what both of you had struggled to express all those months you had spent together.

Heyy for the acotar bingo can you do second option??? Or maybe co workers but like modern! Au

I saw this and was like: what if I used BOTH??!!!!

I also noticed you didn't specified any character so WELCOME BACK RHYSAND HIGH LORD OF THE NIGHT COURT MUAHAHAHAHAHA

See? I did this without putting Feyre as a villain we can all do that

Also I made this angst I don't care I like pain

HEY, I kind of did a universe like CC so, faes and magic but elevators and cellphones? Is that right?

Warning: Almost happy ending more to the no than to the yes, no fluff, angst

Waiting On A Miracle

During the day in Velaris, it was not uncommon for you to find Rhysand, CEO of the renowned Nightstar Corporation, and your boss, pacing around his room in a nervous walk. He often found himself facing a problem that seemed almost insufferable. Despite his wealth, success, and influence, Rhysand's heart yearned for one thing that had eluded him for far too long – true love. He believed that having a powerful and talented woman by his side could raise his spirits and complete his life, filling the void he usually felt in his heart.

He carefully crafted the life he wanted to have, made plans for his future, and ignored the past. It wouldn't be different for the moment he would have to choose a wife. You knew that, always have. And yet, in the darkest moments of the night, you imagined yourself as his choice. You had the knowledge it would never be you. What could you even offer? Coming from a powerful family you were the only one without a drop of magic in your blood. You could winnow and that's all, it ended right there. Everything you lacked in magic you worked hard to compensate for in brains. You were at the top of your class, numerous prizes filled your house and you worked for the best. But in the end, you would never be enough for anyone but yourself.

Rhysand turned to you in one of his days of pacing around and thinking about his future. It was actually a routine to wait for him to finally sit down, you would offer any candy in your drawer and he would smile. Sometimes he would praise you and even send a kiss, memories of your bubbly past with him would fill your heart and both of you would go back to work. Now you worked closely with him in the upper echelons of Nightstar, but in the past, you had shared moments of intimacy, a colorful and passionate friendship during college and the years before his rise. This relationship, even if it had left an undeniable mark on both of you, had turned into a mere spark that often burned a little brighter with every interaction.

But now, Rhysand found himself feeling distracted and consumed by thoughts of his future marriage. It was difficult for him to concentrate on anything else, and he realized that he had to choose soon or else he would become a madman. Taking a deep breath, he picked up his phone and called you while you were in your office, requesting you to come to his room for an important discussion.

As you entered his office, you couldn't help but feel a mixture of nervousness and hope. You and he had been through so much together, and lately, things seemed different between you. Maybe, just maybe, he was finally going to confess his true feelings for you. You were waiting for a miracle.

-What did you want to talk about, Rhysand? - You asked, trying to keep your emotions in check - Is it so important for you to make me get up and travel to the other side of the corridor? - Rhysand looked at her with a mix of hesitation and determination.

-I wanted to talk to you about something important. I've been doing a lot of thinking as you saw, and I've come to a decision.

-Yes, what is it? - Your heart skipped a beat, and you leaned in slightly, your hope rising. It was stupid but you still thought. Maybe…

-I've decided to try a relationship with someone - He said, choosing his words carefully.

-Oh, really? That's great news, maybe the cabinet will finally stop bothering you with that - You were trying to sound nonchalant while your heart raced with anticipation.

-Yes, her name is Feyre - Rhysand said, watching your reaction carefully.

Of course, his choice was none other than Feyre, a remarkable and gifted individual, possessing an extraordinary talent that set her apart from others. Being such a powerful female and still making time to search for what she truly loves was definitely a courageous thing to do. You couldn't deny the appeal. The hope in your heart dimmed instantly, replaced by a mixture of disappointment and sadness.

-Feyre? That's... that's wonderful - You said, trying to mask her feelings. Rhysand noticed the change in your demeanor, and a pang of guilt washed over him. He knew he was hurting you, and he wished he could find the right words to make things better.

-I thought you'd be happy for me - He said gently, trying to explain himself - I've been trying to get over this step of my life for a long time - You managed a weak smile, though your heart felt heavy.

-Of course, I am. Feyre is wonderful, and you deserve to be happy - Rhysand sighed, feeling the weight of his decision.

-The thing is, I don't really know her. We talked once at a party and it was quite good. But I don't know her - Your brows furrowed at his declaration - I know what you're thinking, but I'm sure I'll get to marry her in the end. It's not that hard to fall in love with me - He tried to joke, but you weren't in the mood for it, both his decision and the situation being too much for you. He sighed and dropped his posture on the chair - Look, I care about you, and I value our friendship and our work together. I hope you understand that this doesn't change anything between us.

-Of course, I understand. What we had during college was just… distraction. I'm glad you found someone that can fit in your necessities - But inside, she couldn't help but feel a twinge of jealousy and sadness. You had hoped that maybe, just maybe, you were the one he had chosen. Maybe all those times he was thinking about you. Nothing less than a miracle could take you out of the place your lack of magic put you on.

As you left his office, Rhysand felt a mix of relief and regret. He had been honest with you, but he couldn't shake the guilt he felt for the pain he caused. He knew he had to give his relationship with Feyre a chance, but a part of him couldn't help but wonder what might have been with you.

In the days that followed, he tried to be there for you as a friend, hoping to mend any rift that had formed between your relationship. He wanted to preserve the connection you had, even if it couldn't be what none of you had hoped for. And as he embarked on his new pursuit with Feyre, Rhysand couldn't help but wonder if he had made the right choice. There was a part of him that still felt drawn to you, a lingering feeling that maybe, in another time and place, things could have been different.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, painting the city skyline with hues of orange and pink as Rhysand sat in his office, deep in thought. He had been racking his brain all day, trying to plan the perfect first date for Feyre, something that would sweep her off her feet and show her how much he cared.

-Okay, so first, we'll start with a candlelit dinner at that small Italian restaurant in the venue next to my house - Rhysand mused aloud, his mind drifting to the cozy corner table he had shared with you hundreds of times when you both worked late night and he invited you to sleep at his house, laughing and sharing stories over plates of delicious pasta and wine - Then, we'll take a stroll through the park, hand in hand, talking and laughing - He tried to continue, the image of your smile and the warmth of your hand in his flashing before his eyes.

Rhysand sighed, realizing that everything he was planning for Feyre was merely a reflection of the moments he had lived with you. It struck him like a bolt of lightning – he knew you so well, knew what made you happy and what made your heart sing, but when it came to Feyre, he was completely lost. A mixture of guilt and confusion washed over him. He had been so focused on pursuing Feyre, believing she was the key to completing his life, that he hadn't even noticed his own heart steering him in another direction. The truth hit him like a tidal wave – he was in love with you.

Rhysand leaned back in his chair, his mind racing with the realization. How could he have missed it? He needed Feyre in his life because of his job and status, but it was you who had captured his heart in a way he had never thought possible. You had been there for him, understood him in ways no one else did, and your moments together were the most cherished memories he had.

He only had to choose. Feyre and his job. Or you and his heart.

It never took him long to decide. With the decision already made in his head he dialed your number in his phone and asked you to meet him at the rooftop garden – the very place where you had shared so many of your intimate conversations and moments. As the stars began to twinkle in the night sky, you arrived, looking curious and slightly apprehensive.

-What's going on, Rhysand? - You asked, your gaze searching his face for answers.

-I was trying to plan a date for Feyre, but as I was describing it, I realized that everything I was saying… it's what we used to do, what we've done together - He paused after saying it, but you sensed it wasn't enough, his hesitation preparing you for the worst.

-What do you really want to talk about? - You asked, taking a seat across from him. Rhysand took a deep breath, his heart feeling heavy with the weight of what he was about to say.

-I need to talk to you about your position in the company - He began, trying to find the right words.

-What about it? Is there an issue? - You frowned, sensing the unease in his voice.

-I've decided to downgrade your position - Rhysand looked down for a moment before meeting your gaze again - You are going to work with Azriel now - The words hit you like a punch to the gut, and you could barely believe what you were hearing.

-What? Why? Have I done something wrong? - Your heart starts to beat faster. Everything you ever worked for, the life you sacrificed yourself numerous times to have, everything was crumbling down right in front of you.

-It's not about that - Rhysand replied, trying to keep his emotions in check - I've realized that I'm getting too distracted by you, and I need to focus on my pursuit of Feyre. I can't afford any more complications - Your eyes welled up with tears, and your initial shock turned to anger quicker than you could process what he said.

-Are you serious right now? You're downgrading me because you don't know how to flirt properly with Feyre without thinking about me? I can't believe you, Rhysand! This is ridiculous! - You shout out, your anger rising with each passing second as your mind realized what he just said - Are you fucking out of your mind? You are the one having problems and I am the one who had to suffer and sacrifice a part of my life?

-I know it sounds harsh, and I'm sorry - Rhysand said, his voice softening - But I can't deny my feelings for you any longer. You've become a distraction, and I need to put some distance between us - You stood up abruptly, your emotions boiling over.

-You're unbelievable! First, you loved me and slept with me, and now you're acting like it meant nothing? I thought we were friends at least! - Rhysand looked pained, guilt etched across his features.

-It's not that it meant nothing. It meant everything, and that's why I need to do this. I can't bear the thought of losing you, but I can't continue like this either - Your anger turned into hurt, and tears streamed down your cheeks.

-So, I'm just some inconvenience standing in the way of what you want? I thought you cared about me!

-I do care about you - Rhysand said, his own voice catching with emotion - That's why I made sure to keep the same salary, the same schedule and readjusted you to one of my best men. You will be treated well and-

-It's about that, you idiot! Do you even know me? It's not about the job itself, it's the fact that you are downgrading me for a problem that's not even mine to solve! - Your eyes poured out tears like no tomorrow would come. You looked into the skies and asked yourself if it was actually real - You know me. You know my family, my history. You know the world we live in. I don't have magic, Rhysand. And without that I have nothing. You know the number of colleges that denied my application because of my lack of powers. The only thing I ever had was my brain and my position and now you are taking it from me too.

-But it's not about your powers-

-Shut up - You interrupted him again, feeling a new wave of emotion flooding you - We both know that it is. If I had any kind of power, you would've chosen me to be your wife. Wouldn't you? - His silence told everything you needed to know, when he dropped his eyes to the ground you knew it was over - I can't believe I fell for you. I thought you were different, but you're just like every other male who only cares about his own ambitions.

-No, it's not like that - Rhysand protested, reaching out to touch your arm. But you pulled away before he could get any closer, his heart shattered a bit more.

-Don't touch me. And don't come looking for me. I need some time to take all of my things from the office and change to Azriel's - You said with a sarcastic tone, still in disbelief at what happened to you.

As you walked out of the rooftop, Rhysand sank into one of the seats, his heart heavy with regret and guilt. He knew he had hurt you deeply, and the weight of his decision was crushing him. He had let his pursuit of power and his job blind him to what truly mattered – the connection he had and the love that had grown between the both of you. He let his mind decide what was best for him and now he lost everything that mattered.

He realized that he had been selfish, trying to keep you close as a confidant and friend while pursuing someone else. It wasn't fair to you, and it wasn't fair to him either. He had to confront his feelings and figure out what he truly wanted.

As the minutes turned into hours, Rhysand couldn't concentrate on anything else, especially when he looked outside the door and the lights in your office were turned off, emptiness filling the room. The only thing you left at your table was the gifts he gave to you during all those years working together.

The night kept tense as Rhysand now stood before Feyre, his mind blank as the thought of your tears kept rushing back and forth. He had finally worked up the encounter to talk with Feyre, hoping that she would see the potential in their union. But as he looked into her eyes, he felt nothing and knew that the outcome would not be what he so fiercely desired.

-You heard my proposal. We could make a formidable pair, and I believe we could accomplish great things together - But his voice was an empty whole, his expression a paint of his sorrow.

-Is that all this is about? Power and necessity? - Feyre raised an eyebrow, and he could tell she knew something was wrong.

-It's not just about that - But the phrase came out in a whisper of uncertainty, he sighed and put his head on his head, not even looking at the female in front of him anymore - Or at least I thought or hoped it wouldn't be - Feyre's gaze softened, and she smiled a bit. Always the sweet and comprehensive Feyre.

-Rhysand, I appreciate your honesty and your proposal, I am truly honored. But power and necessity are not enough for a marriage. We need more than that. We need love, trust, and a deep emotional connection - He said with a smile, holding his hand through the table and offering reassurance.

-I know - Rhysand said, his heart sinking - And I thought I could find that with you. In the future - Feyre shook her head gently, even laughing a little.

-Rhysand, I'm attracted to females. I've always been honest about my feelings and who I am. I can't give you the love you deserve, not in that way - His head went up and his eyes widened in surprise.

-I didn't know. I swear to you. I'm deeply sorry if I knew I would never propose such nonsense - He captured her hands in both of his and took it to his head, pleading forgiveness - I shouldn't have proposed this stupid thing to anyone, actually. I'm so sorry.

-It's okay. I never talked about it in public, you wouldn't know. I'm still getting comfortable with it - Her eyes sparkled with something he couldn't tell, but he knew she had forgiven him - You're an incredible man, Rhysand, and you deserve someone who can love you the way you need to be loved.We both deserve to find happiness in our own ways - He could only raise her hand to his lips and press a kiss in it. Thankful. He felt thankful - You're a good male, Rhysand. Don't ever doubt that. But you need to stop being so stubborn and let yourself live for your emotions, not just your company.

-I'll try - He nodded, feeling a mix of gratitude and pain in his heart. As he walked away from Feyre that night, Rhysand felt a sense of both loss and relief.

As he found himself standing outside your door, he knew that the one who truly held his heart was waiting for him inside. It was time for him to stop denying his emotions in favor of his job and take a chance on love, on the person who had been there for him all along.

With a newfound determination, Rhysand knocked on the door, ready to embrace the future with open arms. Whatever the outcome, he knew that he couldn't keep hiding behind his company and ambitions, it was time for him to live for his emotions and the person who had captured his heart.

As the door opened, your eyes widened in surprise and confusion at the sight of Rhysand standing there, looking both heartbroken and determined. Before you could say anything, he began to speak, his voice wavering with emotion.

-I need to tell you the truth - Rhysand said, his voice barely above a whisper - I love you. I've loved you for so long, and I can't bear the thought of losing you. I've been such a fool, pursuing power and hiding behind my ambitions, when all this time, you were the one I wanted.

-You think a big declaration can make everything go back into place? - You cut him off before he could continue, your voice trembling with anger and sadness -Do you realize how much you hurt me? Did you even listen to what I said? How can I trust you, Rhysand?

-I know I hurt you, and I'm so sorry. I was blind to my own feelings, and I pushed you away when all I wanted was to be with you - Rhysand's shoulders slumped, and tears welled up in his eyes.

-You can't just say sorry and expect everything to be okay. You made your choice, Rhysand, and it wasn't me - The desperation in his eyes became evident as you moved to close the door. He ran and stopped you as fast as he could.

-I thought it was what I wanted, but I was wrong - Rhysand said, tears streaming down his cheeks - I can't lose you. I can't live without you.

-You can't just walk back into my life and expect everything to be fine. I don't know if I can trust you again - Your heart ached at the sight of his vulnerability, but you couldn't forget the pain he had caused. The things you lost because of him.

-I love you so much, and I'll spend the rest of my life making it up to you - He declared, his voice raw with emotion - Please, give me a chance to show you how much you mean to me.

You felt torn apart, your heart wanting to believe him but also fearful of being hurt again. You took a step closer, bringing him inside your house before closing the door again. The same way Rhysand had made his decisions days before, you had made yours. In a moment of emotion, your lips met his in a kiss, a mixture of love, pain, and longing shared between you. It was a moment of desperation and yearning, the culmination of your intense feelings for each other. But as the kiss ended, you stepped back.

-I need time - You whispered, voice shaking with desperation - I need time to process everything, to figure out if we can ever find a way back to each other.

-I'll wait - He said, his voice filled with determination - However long it takes, I'll wait for you.

You nodded once before kissing him again, the movement memorized in your own being, the pattern very well known by both of you as you took off his coat and his shirt as you moved blindly towards your room. He knew where everything was, he knew every part of your body and every part of your heart. But it wasn't enough. It would never be enough if he didn't know how to treat your heart. He knew you, you knew him, but neither of you knew how to deal with each other.

As the morning light filtered through the curtains, the heaviness of the previous night's emotions lingered in the air. Rhysand found himself lost in your room. Your side of the bed was empty when he tried to find you. He lifted his head and started to walk around, searching for you all over your house, a place he knew like the back of his hand. He found you in the living room, hair still messy from the night before, lips still swollen and only a robe covering your body. He could get used to this vision.

-Good Morning. I thought that maybe we could - But you held up your hand, stopping him mid-sentence.

-I've had time to think, and I can't be in a relationship with you - You said, her voice resolute but tinged with sadness. Rhysand felt a mix of shock and disappointment wash over him, but he understood your decision. He cut you deeply, and he couldn't expect you to jump back into a relationship with him after everything that had happened.

-I... I understand - His voice barely above a whisper, looking at you with the hope that you would look back at him - I was a horrible person to you, and I'm sorry for everything I put you through.

-I appreciate your apology, Rhysand. But I need to move on from this and focus on my own happiness - Rhysand couldn't help but feel a sense of loss as he watched you stand firm in your decision. He had hoped for a different outcome, but he knew he had to respect your wishes after all.

-Well, at least go back to your position as my assistant - He suggested, trying to find some semblance of their previous relationship. But you only shook your head, a small smile playing on your lips.

-I'm sorry, Rhys, but I think I've found my place with Azriel. I'm very comfortable working with him, and I believe it's the right choice for me - Rhysand felt a pang of disappointment, realizing that he had truly lost you in every possible way. He had been blind to what he had in front of him, and now he was facing the consequences.

As he made his way to his car, the weight of his actions and the loss of your presence overwhelmed him. He felt defeated, lost, and uncertain of what the future held for him. But just as he was about to get into his car, he heard your voice calling out his name. He turned around to see you standing in front of the door, he looked at you hesitant but hopeful.

You took a deep breath, and for a moment, he saw a glimmer of hope in your eyes, as you considered what you were about to say.

-You can still send me messages, you know? Maybe there's still a chance for us, or maybe not. But if you ever want to talk, I'll be here. I'll think about answering them.

Rhysand felt a mixture of relief and uncertainty at your words. Maybe there was still a sliver of hope for you, a chance to rebuild what had been broken. But he also knew that he had a long way to go to earn your trust and love back. And maybe he would have a bit of competition with Azriel as your boss.

-Thank you - He said, his voice filled with gratitude - I'll take the chance.

And with that, you stood there for a moment, watching as he processed his emotions. Neither of you knew what the future held, but both of you were willing to find out. And with that, he left, giving you the space you needed. It's not a happy ending, but it was a step towards something real – a chance for both of you to confront your past, and your emotions, and to decide if love could endure the pain and uncertainty that lay ahead.

Velar is citizen with azriel?

The requests are ending and I'm DESPERATE

There's only one more someone help me, send something, ANYTHING, doesn't even need to be from the bingo 😭😭😭😭😭

I don't think I have enough creativity to think alone with my own head

This one is small but so cute 🥺🥺🥺🥺🥺 azzie's shadows 🥺😭😭😭😭 I would date him just to play with his shadows honestly

Golden

Azriel strolled through the vibrant streets of Velaris, his usual calm demeanor slightly disrupted by the bustling energy surrounding him. Everything has been peaceful since the official end of what they called the "Age of Terror" and the defeat of a great part of their enemies. Despite the happiness that overflowed him, Azriel somehow missed all the agitation and the danger. Not that he didn't have anything to do, but the number of missions that requested his presence started to short as time flew.

Without the mess and agitation, he wanted to settle down as his brothers did, find someone to love and to live a quiet and peaceful life with, or the closest a spymaster could get on that topic. This proved itself to be the hardest thing he ever did in his life since his options were scarce. Everyone seemed to fear him or not even interested in anything but his dick.

As he neared his favorite coffee shop he noticed a little commotion on the front door. The shop was a quaint little place tucked away amidst the city, not very known by the population but definitely worth every penny he spent. It didn't take long for him to notice a sign that read "New Barista". Apparently, this new person brings a new wave of interested people to the store. He couldn't help but be happy since he knew the owner was an old lady that didn't want much but to see his clients happy.

Curiosity sparked within him, and he decided to step inside, intrigued by the idea of someone fresh in the city, something that became common since the war stopped and thousands of people from every court went to Velaris searching for a better place to start their lives. The moment he walked through the door, his eyes found you. A young female with captivating eyes and a smile that seemed to light up the room was the best way to describe Azriel's first impression. 

You stood behind the counter, diligently preparing orders for the eager customers at the same time you kept a conversation with each of them, always looking interested in whatever they were saying. Azriel took a moment to observe you, admiring the grace with which you moved around the shop, an effortless charm evident in every gesture. It was in that instant that he knew he had to get to know you, to uncover the stories that lingered behind those enchanting eyes.

Summoning all his courage, Azriel approached the counter, his voice steady but laced with a hint of nervousness. 

-Good afternoon - He greeted, offering a polite smile. 

-Oh, hello there. What can I get you? - You turned around to see him, slightly shocked by him. Everything in his appearance looked so… perfect. It was almost scary.

-Just the usual for me, please - He asked, already taking off the coins to pay. You didn't move an inch, smiling at him as if it was funny. It took him some moments until he realized his mistake - Of course. I'm sorry, you're new here. Uhm, a regular black coffee, that's all.

-Okay then, a regular black coffee it is - You said, already starting to prepare his order.

-I couldn't help but notice you're new here - You stopped what you were doing, looking at him with a confused expression. He looked back at you, before realizing his second mistake of the day - I mean, new in the city. I never saw you around - Your eyes met his for the briefest of moments before you returned to work, a big smile on your face.

-Yes, I am. Just moved to Velaris a few weeks ago. It's been quite an adventure so far - Intrigued, Azriel leaned against the counter, eager to engage in a conversation, watching to stop himself from making another mistake. 

-Velaris is a wonderful city, there are a lot of things to do. Have you had the chance to explore much of it yet? - You paused again, quite shocked by his sudden interest.

-Not as much as I'd like. Any recommendations? - You asked with a playful glint in your eyes, testing his intentions.

-Well, there's a hidden garden not far from here, tucked away from good part of the prying eyes - Azriel's lips curled into a mischievous smile, getting closer to you as if to whisper a secret - With prying eyes I mean my family. They are quite the gossipers - You couldn't help but laugh, the coffee quickly forgotten on the counter.

-I thought you being the spymaster would be the biggest font of the gossips - He almost looked offended if it wasn't for the smile that started to grow on his face.

-I never said I wasn't, it doesn't mean I want them prying on my business - You felt your cheeks reddening as you took in his words, understanding that you would be one of his business - About the garden, it's quite a beauty in this season if you allow me to say. Would you care to accompany me there one evening? - Your eyes widened with surprise, a deep blush painting your cheeks now. 

-That sounds... lovely. I'd be thankful if you showed me - You turned back at your work before your colleague gets the opportunity to get mad at you for not working - Okay, I think that's it. A regular black coffee for the Shadowsinger - He took the cup from your hand and made a little bow, making you chuckle a little. He took a sip of it and started to turn around, but he stopped in the middle of the way and came back to the counter.

-I'm sorry, but I think there is something wrong with my order - He gave the cup back to you and you felt your heart beat faster. If your first mistake was with him your career could be done. And maybe your date too.

-What is wrong? I can fix it - You gestured to the cup, ready to throw it away and make a new one.

-I'm sure you can fix it. It's just that is missing your name in the cup - You stopped middle way, looking at him in disbelief as his smile took over his whole face, making him look even more beautiful than before - It's unfair that you know who I am and I only know that you're the pretty fae that makes a delicious coffee.

-Okay, you got me there - Your cheeks were already hurting from smiling so much, still in disbelief at his attitude - You can't ask your shadows, anyway?

-Well, I can. And they already know. But if I ask you then I have a reason to hear you talk - You wrote it all down in his cup and gave it back. He read it and turned the cup to you, lots of words written down but any was your name. His eyes asked you a silent question.

-My address. So you can pick me up and take me to the garden. You can ask my name there - You smiled brightly at him, calling for the next customer.

You exchanged one last look before Azriel leaves the coffee shop with a newfound happy pace in his step. He couldn't help but feel that this meeting was something special, the start of something he couldn't quite take place yet. His shadows poked him in his cheek, which was still locked in a big smile.

-What? You never saw me flirting? - He asked to the smoke around him. The little beasts surround him as if they were laughing - I just don't do it often. But you can see that it worked.

The shadows once again moved in laughter, making him groan in frustration before taking another sip of his coffee. Yeah, he could definitely get used to this every day.

✨️starshine pt. III✨️

Rhysand x Reader

part I part II part III

notes: literally no summary possible without intense spoilers. you´ll probably be able to guess what this chapter entails by just like the first few sentences (btw, it's been ages since I read the books, so I'm working on a lot of creative freedom with this one lol). fair warning: this one´s angsty. like I already mentioned, it´s also insanely long. so. have fun? I guess?

______________________________________________________________

Slipping through the wards felt like a tingle of ice on my skin. My breath hitched, and for a second, I expected the mountain to cave in on me, squash me as it realized someone had breached the magic binding so many to its halls.

But nothing happened.

The servant fae´s dress slipped up my thighs when I dove into the dark corridors. I had caught her when she had lingered too close to the wards, golden whisps of magic seeping through the bounds and engulfing her, catching her when she fell into a deep, dreamless slumber. I had swapped our clothes before hiding her floating body behind a glamour and slipping into the dark mountain.

Something closed around my throat lightly as I moved through the shadows, stilling every time I heard a sound.

Fifty years.

Fifty years of chipping away at the wards guarding the mountain, little by little so no one would notice the small growing hole in the thickly woven magic. Fifty years of trying to be everywhere at once, moving through the courts, healing those in need before slipping away before anyone could notice. Fifty years of faeries slaughtered in numbers becoming bigger and bigger, causing rage to grow slowly in my chest.

Fifty years of dreaming of violet eyes like night skies.

I remembered the day Amarantha had caught them all like it was yesterday. I had been staying in the Day Court, and from one second to the next, the warm summer night had turned ice cold. A darkness had placed itself over the world, the faeries in the garden had disappeared and the glow of the flowers had dimmed. An icy shiver had run down my spine, and like instinct, I had reached out for Rhys, for that familiar feeling that was always not far from the bounds of my mind, the sharp claws that tickled my soul before the deep, rich voice echoed through my head, even when their owner was on the other side of Prythian.

But there had been nothing. No presence, not even when I had called out to him. Instead, there was a harsh wall, like something, or someone was blocking him.

I had started looking for him the day after.

~

Following the halls deeper into the mountain, I simply listened to the tug in my chest that pulled me forward, guiding me towards the hum of power. My own responded, slithering angrily under my skin, and I pushed it down, barricading it behind walls as high as the sky.

I had learned to hide the thrum of power flooding through me a long time ago. It was what kept me hidden in the courts, allowed me to exist without anyone bothering me. Strangely enough, it had never kept Rhys from finding me, like even the way my powers were hidden was distinct enough for him to track me down. When I had brought it up once, he had just grinned so widely, his cheeks had creased as he replied: “Starshine, I would be able to find you on nothing but instinct even if you were galaxies away.”

Back then, it had made something skip softly against my ribs as I had thrown a pillow at his head. Now, just the memory of his voice caused a strange ache in my chest.

Amarantha had taken Rhys away from his family, his home. And I was sure that the only reason he was playing her game, bowing to her, was to protect them.

If there was one thing I had learned about him in the past century, it was that his friends, his family and his home were everything to him. And that he would do anything to protect them.

Even give himself up.

The tight feeling in my chest shifted, like for a second, something scratched the surface, a familiar presence growing closer, and I breathed out soundlessly.

There was no way I was going to let her break him.

Not him.

~

The whispers from Under the Mountain had been vague, but with time, they had started to paint a picture, blurred and hazy, but clear enough to know that Amarantha had a fable for lavish nights with wine and entertainment.

I had expected her entertainment to be cruel. I had spent the last fifty years trying to protect the faeries, for Amarantha seemed to have developed a taste for keeping them like animals, all while hearing rumors about the Fae trapped Under the Mountain, forced to bow to her will. But what was awaiting me when I slipped through the doors into the huge cavernous hall, the stench of spirits hitting me and the air pressed from my lungs – it was so much worse.

There were Fae everywhere, dressed in a way that left little to the imagination. Their gazes ranged from empty to forcingly amused to petrified, but their bodies moved like they were in a trance, not their own will causing them to dance, grind on each other and do more, in plain sight for all to see.

It felt like a sick, twisted stage play, orchestrated for nothing but the embarassement and torture of the courts and one person´s amusement, one person who loomed on a dais at the back wall, sitting on a throne, dressed in blood red.

My eyes zeroed in, and my powers surged against the walls caging them in.

Amarantha had tipped her head to the side, her golden crown glittering in the light of the torches as she watched the spectacle at the foot of the dais. Her red hair flowed over her shoulders, her long nails resting on the armrests. There was a light curve to her lips, but her eyes were cold and calculating.

Somehow reigning in the magic raging under my skin, I pressed my lips together and followed her eyes, down to the steps leading up to the dais -

The wind got knocked out of my lungs. The noises, the hall around me faded as something pulsed slowly against my ribs, my heart beating like the wings of a butterfly caught in time, trying to escape from my chest as my gaze narrowed down until it was centered on the male at the foot of the dais, a picture of lazy feline confidence so familiar, I had to fight for air.

Rhys.

Suddenly, fifty years caught up with me, fifty years of his face burned into my mind, his smile and the way his violet eyes twinkled like a glittering night sky.

Only it was gone now. The spark in his iris, the vibrancy of his eyes. His dark hair, though still impeccably styled, had lost its shine, his sunkissed skin was pale and sallow, and his smile –

Something tightened so harshly in my chest, I held my breath.

Gone was the cheeky curve of his lips, the mischievous turn of his grin and that stupidly beautiful smile. It had been replaced by a light smirk, one that was cold and cruel and –

Didn´t reach his eyes.

His smile always reached his eyes. Even when it promised violence and bloodshed and broken bones, it always translated to the way his eyes looked, to the spark in his iris, angry or furious.

Only it didn´t anymore.

I tried to swallow, fight against the way something closed around my throat when I stared at Rhys and his eyes, dull and unmoving as he gazed down onto the heap at his feet, a heap -

My breath stilled, and the grip around my throat changed to vice.

It was a sprite boy. A moonwing, with feathery white hair caked with dirt, milky pale skin torn and bloody over too-thin limbs, and his wings –

His wings.

A sound built at the bottom of my throat, a strangled whimper that was swallowed by the harsh noises around me. Something clawed at my chest, a pain so heavy I almost went to my knees as I stared at what used to be thin-as-lace wings, their white membranes hanging in bloody shreds over a whipmarked back.

Quickly clamping a shaking hand over my mouth to smother the heaving sob breaking from my throat, I almost fell into the wall, my body beginning to shake when I felt something hot run over my cheek as I stared at the faerie, swaying as he tried to get to his feet without the support of his wings. His pain was mine, his despair gripping me like an iron fist, my breath trembling as my vision blurred and I whimpered.

No.

Rhysand stilled. I could see his shoulders shift. Then his head rose, eyes tearing away from the moonwing to swiftly move over the crowd, and for nothing more than a second, a fraction of a heartbeat, something flashed through his eyes, something that was buried so deep, it was nearly impossible to make out. Like somehow, he felt my anguish, could sense a presence in the crowd that didn´t belong -

The guards at the edge of the dais moved, and Rhys blinked, then his eyes moved away from the crowd, and his back straightened when a male stepped forward, staring hungrily at the moonwing.

There was a bloody whip hanging from his hand.

My heart tightened, lips opening as nausea washed over me like a tidal wave, but before the male could take another step, Rhys moved. His motions were quick and smooth when he took a step forward and picked up the moonwing by his neck, and I could see the fairie´s iridescent eyes flaring with panic as he started to struggle, then Rhys´ hand closed around his jaw.

My heart stopped, my breath stilled when the crack of bones snapping whipped through the hall.

The moonwing´s body went limp, head rolling to the side.

A muscle in Rhys´ cheek twitched, face unmoving as he let the faerie slip to the ground and raised his head, turning around. I couldn´t tear my eyes away from the moonwing´s body as the other male moved towards him with a scowl, gripping one of the fairie´s shredded wings and turning to drag him away from the dais and into the shadows, leaving a pool of blood on the stone floor.

Something hot streamed over my cheeks as I fought to breathe, and magic started to push against my skin, slowly growing until I had to keep all my focus on keeping it subdued.

My eyes rose, and a cold fist closed around my heart when Rhys sat down next to Amarantha. Her hand drifted towards him, her nails dragging lightly over his skin, and I could see the second his eyes clouded over like he had dragged up walls, high, high, higher when Amarantha whispered something with a smile like a viper, and Rhysand nodded once, eyes trained onto the crowd like it could hide the way his shoulders shifted like his body fought to move away.

It was all I needed to straighten my spine and breathe, something beginning to burn under my skin.

~

I had slinked into the shadows when Amarantha had risen from her throne, Rhys following suit, though there was something in the way his eyes seemed to dull even more when he moved after her, something that shifted to that something buried deep in his heart.

I lost them in the maze of halls a few times, but something, like a small tug in my chest, kept pulling me back onto the right path, like the golden whisps of magic swirling under my skin had latched onto Rhys, guiding me.

Slipping around a corner, I just caught a glimpse at a big door closing. Waiting for a few moments, just to make sure, I slowly started to move, avoiding lanterns and melting into the shadows as I soundlessly slid down the hall until I could disappear into the alcoven right next to the door. Pressing my back against the cold stone walls, I leaned my temple against the wall and focused on the noises slipping from the room.

For a second, my mind was slow, struggling to place the muffled sounds that seemed to be a female´s, harsh and strangely drawn –

My heart stilled.

I could feel my breath, ragged as I stared at the wall ahead, something suddenly filling my throat like the urge to be sick, to stagger away from that door and what was behind it.

I was already half pushing away from the wall when the wave of emotion hit me like a brick. Like someone inside that room had slipped up, had lost control of what kept their feelings locked deep, deep down because what they were doing right now was a struggle in itself, a struggle like having a fist around your throat that kept you from breathing.

I didn´t know how I knew it was him. I just knew that the way his emotions vibrated under my skin, causing my knees to give out and my body to silently slide down the wall to collapse to the ground as I fought for air, was uniquely his.

Rhys was drowning.

I could feel it, feel the way his sense of self and his will to fight dwindled like they were slowly dragged under water. Overrun and fought to their knees by pain. Pain that felt like ghostly nails running over his skin, like actions that broke apart pieces of him and caused guilt to drown him without his limbs fighting. It was humiliation, and repulsion, and numbness. And fear. Fear, so overwhelming and all-consuming, it wrapped around my throat like a rope, pulling tighter and tighter as I crouched frozen at the wall, tears streaming down my cheeks and something in my chest shattering silently as I squeezed my eyes shut.

I didn´t know how I long I was sitting in the shadows, nor could I place the moment when Rhysand´s emotions slipped away like he had found the gap in his armor and patched it back up. But the remnants of them still clung to my chest, joining into a heaviness when I could hear movements behind the door.

Quickly and with shaking hands, I pulled myself to my feet, slipping back down the hall and into the shadows at the corner to the next, tear tracks cool against my cheeks when I watched the door open.

My heart stilled as I watched Amarantha appear in the hall, slipping her dress over her legs with a smile and something started swirling under my skin, growing with every second. Power, golden light that raged like fire, roaring and threatening to break free, to unleash and make the mountain collapse into itself as golden light wrapped around Amarantha´s throat –

Swallowing, I forced it down with trembling hands.

Not like this.

 It had taken years to gather enough information, barely any whispers trickling out of the mountain. Years to figure out that she had the High Lords under her control, chained to the mountain, all while her guards wreaked havoc on the lands outside. Courts withering, faeries dying.

The children from Winter had been the last straw.

I had to find a way to free the High Lords, get back their powers. Attacking Amarantha would just risk something happening to those caught down here, or outside.

Sinking back into the shadows, I watched Amarantha disappear into the other direction. I waited until she was gone, waited some more, just to make sure. Then I slipped down the hall.

The door creaked a little when I pushed it open, and cringing lightly, I hastily slipped through, closing it behind me carefully before raising my head, and my heart skyrocketed.

Rhys was standing at the opposite wall, bare back towards me and shoulders shifting as he tensed, going rigid. He didn´t turn around when he mumbled: “Anything else?”

His deep voice took away my breath, something tightening harshly in my chest at its roughness.

He sounded defeated.

His name tumbled from my lips before I could stop it, quiet and hoarse and a little shaky.

“Rhys.”

He froze.

I watched as his shoulders straightened. He looked like he was holding his breath, his hands closing so tightly around the shirt in his hands, his knuckles turned white as he stared at the wall ahead, and for a second, I thought I could see a tremble run over his spine.

I took a step forward, whispering: “Rhys?”

His head turned ever so slightly, like he was forcing himself not to turn around but couldn´t fully control his body, and I saw the moment he caught onto my scent. His nose flared, and his limbs went utterly and fully still, like for a second, he even stopped breathing. Then he looked over his shoulder, and I stared at him, felt something surge high in my chest when his eyes found mine.

He blinked, and my bottom lip trembled when his eyes became glossy, one corner of his lips slowly curving. Then he whispered, rough voice broken: “You´re not real.”

I swallowed as I stared at him, my heart clenching violently. Then I moved towards him, slowly but steadily, and I could feel Rhys fight the closer I got, like the instinct to reach out and the fear of reaching right through me were battling in his chest.

 Halting a few inches away, stopping to keep myself from moving even though every part of me screamed at me to get closer, I swallowed, carefully holding out a hand.

When my fingers brushed over his arm, something rippled through Rhysand´s body. His eyes snapped up from where he had watched my hand almost fearfully, flying to meet mine as his glossed over ones grew wide and his lips opened. I sniffled, nose crunching as I sent him a smile, wobbly and uneven.

“Not getting rid off me that easily, remember?”, I whispered, and Rhys´ hand closed around my wrist to yank me forward, into his arms.

My heart stopped when my chest collided with his. It felt like I was thrown into one of the dreams that had haunted me for fifty years, dreams in which he´d been there, had grinned at me and teased me and been his gloriously annoying self, dreams I had woken from with a weight on my chest pressing me down, because I could feel the memory of his presence slip through my fingers.

Only now, I didn´t wake up, and there was no pressing knowledge somewhere buried in the depth of my mind that it was nothing but a dream. No, Rhys was there, tall and solid as he wrapped himself around me, clung to me like I could be ripped away from him any second, and my breath hitched when I could feel the way his body started to tremble.

Something small in my chest shattered silently, and barely suppressing a soft whimper as pressure rose in my throat, I hastily wrapped my arms around his sides and held onto him. Held onto him, his skin cool under my mine, muscles taut as a bowstring when my fingers dug into the back of his shoulders, and Rhys laughed, laughed, wet and desperate and causing my chest to tighten so harshly, I hiccuped. His hands grabbed at my back, my dress, one finding its way into my hair, and I fought the heavy weight on my chest and the way my voice thickened when I whispered: “Hello.”

Rhys whimpered, his trembling fingers tightening their hold as he tried to drag me closer like I wasn´t already pressed into his chest, his breath shaking like the rest of him when he buried his face in the crook of my neck, and I could feel the second his walls broke. His chest, pressed against mine, started heaving, and something warm and wet pooled on my skin.

“It´s okay.” I squeezed my eyes shut as I held onto him, feeling a tear roll over my cheek as the ache in my chest spread, and my voice broke a little when I whispered: “I´m real.”

Rhys breathed out with a shudder, then he pulled back, nose pressing into my hair for a second, and when I raised my head, his hand curled around the back of my neck as he pressed his forehead against mine. His quick, unsteady breaths made my heart skip, and I forced open my eyes, staring at him and his scrunched eyebrows and the tears silently rolling over his cheeks as he fought for air.

Quickly, I pressed my hands against his sides, feeling my voice crack a little when I whispered: “Breathe.”

Rhys´ eyes flew open, and the world staggered when his violet iris met mine, shimmering with tears and everything shining through them, like a dam inside of him had broken. He stared at me like I was the night sky he hadn´t seen for fifty years, his fingers curling into my hair. His eyes tracked the dried tears on my cheeks, and then his body went awfully still.

For a second, he gazed down at me, his throat working as he swallowed harshly and his grip slackened a little. His eyes tracked over mine, and his voice, rough and fragile, broke a little when he mumbled: “How long have you been outside?”

I tried to breathe against the heaviness in my chest as I stared up at him, losing the tight against the way my throat closed as my vision blurred and my bottom lip wobbled.

My silence was answer enough.

Rhys´ fingers twitched, and I could feel him freeze, pull back, but I dug my fingers into his bare skin and swallowed harshly, a tear running over my cheek when I whispered, voice shaking: “I´m going to kill her.”

Rhysand´s eyes followed the tear, widening slightly, and suddenly, he looked panicked.

“You have to leave.”

“Rhys –“

“You have to get out of here, if she finds you with me –“ His breath quickened, his wide eyes causing something to squeeze my heart harshly. In over a hundred years, I had never seen him like this, so utterly and completely afraid; fear, sheer frantic panic rolling off him in waves, completely ungarded.

“Indeed.”

I could feel the way Rhys froze under my hands when my eyes flew over to the door. Could feel the wave of unbridedled dead crash over me when the female in the door smiled, her eyes flashing and bloodred hair glimmering in the candle light.

“Now look at that…”

~

My knees dragged over the stone floors as the guards hauled me into the great, cavernous hall, Amarantha sauntering after us, Rhys behind her as he struggled against the males containing him, his teeth bared even as I could feel, smell the panic roll off of him. I tried to reach him, but the powers raging under my skin were slowly slipping out of my control, roaring at the way I could feel him struggle.

“Drop her.” Amarantha waved her hand casually, raising her brow as the guards dumped be to the ground in the middle of the hall and turning towards Rhys. “You know, I really thought you´d have better taste.” Her tone was mocking, her smile amused. “A servant… and a faerie no less.”

Rhys fought against the guards holding him, but I could see the way his movements were restrained, like she was containing him. He looked like he was vibrating with unbridled fury, but there was something burning under the surface as I pushed myself to my feet, something that made my heart tighten harshly.

Amarantha tutted softly, smiling widely. Her eyes raked over Rhys´ face, and they sharpened. Then she raised a brow. “Oh.”

Something skipped high and harsh against my ribs, and one corner of her lips quirked. “Now that´s interesting. Is it possible…” She tipped her head to the side, and Rhys´ grew rigid.

“You care for her. Oh now, now.” Amarantha laughed, and it rung through the air. “How quaint.” She smiled widely, at it sent a shiver down my spine as her eyes danced.

“The mighty High Lord and the faerie. I wonder…” Sauntering towards me, she reached out, her nails lightly raking over my jaw to tip it up, and I hissed at her, causing her to chuckle. “Well, she is feisty. Still.” Her head tipped to the side, considering me like prized cattle, and Rhys´ struggle grew as she slowly started to smile and raised her brows mildly.

“I think you need a reminder who you belong to.”

Turning around, she lightly dipped her head, and someone kicked the back of my legs, causing them to buckle.

Sharp pain shot through my knees when I fell to the floor, and I could feel my dress shift, then rough hands pushed me forward and the fabric was ripped open, slipping down my back. My heart skipped high into my throat, and I tried to reach out on instinct to cover myself, but my wrists were seized, forced away from my body.

I could hear the sound of a fight, and when my eyes rose, Rhys was fighting against the guards holding him, a terrifying snarl on his face, but Amarantha just smiled and placed a finger on her lips.

Iron shackles closed around my wrists, dragging my arms apart until I was kneeling, and my fingers started shaking as I tried to contain the magic brimming under the surface, the golden light trying to break out to rage around me, and when I forced up my head, Amarantha raised a brow.

There was movement at the corner of my eye. Then something struck my back with such force, my body was thrown forward.

Burning pain seared over my skin, a scream forcing its way from my throat when my back arched, pain pulsing through my body and leaving my muscles trembling, and Rhys roared.

With one mighty rip, he broke away from the guards trying to contain him, but before he could make it even a few feet, Amarantha struck, and Rhys crumbled to the ground.

“No!” I struggled against the iron chains, magic surging under my skin as pressure build behind my eyes and a angry sound ripped from my throat.

“How precious.” Amarantha sounded bored and a little disdainful, waving her hand as she turned away, and two guards grabbed Rhys´ arms, dragging him up until he was kneeling, forcing his head up. He was bleeding, his brow cut, but it was nothing compared to the anguish in his eyes as they found mine, furious and helpless.

Fighting against the tug in my chest, I squeezed my burning eyes shut for a second before opening them again, staring at him as my body trembled.

“I,”, my voice broke with strain, “can take it.”

Amarantha chuckled. “Oh dear.”

Another hit struck my back, the whip slashing the air and through my skin, and a low scream tore from my throat. Tears brimmed at the corner of my eyes, my breath trembling at the pain pulsing through my back and into my body and from holding onto the whirling storm in my chest.

“I doubt it.” Amarantha´s eyes were glimmering with wicked delight, and as the next lash hit my back, I forced my head up, my body shaking as I gritted my teeth and fought the tears pooling from my eyes as they found the male behind her, and my heart stilled.

Went silent in my chest at the way he stared at me, head pulled back by his hair as the guards forced him to look, eyes wide, body rigid like he was gripped in an iron fist. There was something swirling in his gaze, pure torment, intertwined with something else, something that reached so deep, I lost my breath.

No more.

The words seemed to whisper through my mind, through the fog and the pain, growing stronger as the air around me started to flimmer.

No more.

My eyes pierced into Rhys´, a tremble going through my body. Then something settlen in my chest.

 No more.

Golden light bloomed around me, whispers of magic swarming me, flittering over my back, their whispering touch gentle, and I could feel the wounds close, leaving nothing behind but even skin. The hum seemed to grow until I could feel the power in every inch of my body, vibrating, and Amarantha´s voice reached me, sharp as she called to her guards: “Stop her, now -“

A wave of golden light erupted from my body. It ripped Amarantha and the guards holding me off their feet, flinging them through the air, the males crashing into the walls as Amarantha slammed into the steps of the dais. And as the ground started to tremble, the mountain itself rumbling like thunder, the shackles fell of my wrists and I pushed myself to my feet, golden swirls of magic building around me like a hurricane as rage carried me.

The doors flew open as guards streamed in, barking orders as they took position and advanced, and power surged through my body.

The ground shook, then thick vines bursted from the stone floors. They slithered through the air, wrapping themselves around the guards and flinging them through the room, wrapping them up tight and engulfing them, their screams drowned as they turned into giant trees. Weapons turned into slithering branches, wrapping around their owners, armor growing green moss like treebark when I dodged a sword blow in a swift movement, arrows flying at me turning into bursts of petals as I dove and slipped the guard´s sword out of his hand, slashing it over his throat in one precise movement, and another wave of magic pulsed through my body, sending off a shockwave that tore the remaining guards off their feet, swords and armor clattering when they crashed into the walls and onto the floors.

Raising my head, I felt the light around me flimmer, illuminating the sword in my hand for another moment as I slowly straightened, power surging through my body as the light slowly dispersed and I felt my breath again, quick and heavy. Something flickered in my chest when my gaze moved over the throne room, trees growing from stone floors, their branches stretching high up the cavernous ceiling, petals drifting over the ground and unconcious guards strewn across the floor.

The rage in my chest slowly washed away, a slow exhale leaving me, and looking over my shoulder, I felt something rise in my chest.

Rhys was still kneeling on the ground, having caught himself as the guards holding him had been torn across the room. His eyes were wide as his gaze darted over the hall, then it found mine, and something skipped so harshly into my throat, I lost my breath.

Rhys was staring at me like I had ripped open the mountain to show him the stars.

Something rose in my chest, fluttering like a hurricane, and turning around, I stepped over a guards legs and held out a hand. Rhys stared up at me, and slowly, his eyes started to shine in a way that made my breath catch, then he grabbed my hand and I pulled him to his feet.

There was a light flash of silver from the corner of my eye. I turned my head, and for a moment, time slowed.

Without thinking, I moved, the sword slipping from my hand and clattering to the ground as my fingers closed around Rhys´ elbows and dragged him with me as I turned, turned until he was facing the dais and I –

Sharp pain struck my back.

I could feel my eyes widen, how time staggered just like my heart when hot, all consuming pain slowly spread from a point somewhere right beneath my shoulder blades. Then my eyes found Rhys´, and the way he stared at me, his eyes growing wide, made time fall back into place.

My knees toppled lightly when pain crashed over me like a wave, and Rhys dove forward to catch me, his pupils blown wide as a wave of panic washed over me that wasn´t my own, terrifying and mindnumbing as his hands frantically moved over my body, gripping my hips, pushing up my chin. The pulsing pain from my back seemed to consume my body now, and my heart stuttered.

“No.” Rhysand´s voice ripped its on wound through my chest, disbelieving, hollow and horrified. His eyes darted over my face, all the color draining from his features, but he looked a bit blurred, like he was drifting away from me. I tried to grab at his chest, but my movements were strangely slow.

“Go.” My voice sounded strained to my own ears, but I forced myself to focus on Rhys´ face, trying to fight past the pain the look on his face caused in my chest. His brows twitched as his eyes, panicked and frantic, darted over my face, and I pressed: “Get. Her.”

Rhys stared at me. Then something shifted in his eyes, beginning to glow, and his head rose, a terrifying growl rumbling from his chest.

“You.”

His hands slipped away from my arms and I could feel him move past me, something skipping high in my chest as I staggered lightly, dropping my to my knees. Forcing myself to move, I tried to suppress a whimper when I reached my hand up my back, twisting and feeling a rough sound built in my throat at the pain the movement sent cursing through my body. My fingers slipped over something cold, and with a pressed sound, I pulled the blade out of my body. It clattered onto the floor, and the floor swayed under my knees when for a second, all I could see were black spots dancing before my eyes as something hot run over my pulsing back.

Behind me, I heard the sound of fighting, snarls that made the hairs at the back of my neck rise, and I forced my head up to look over my shoulder. My vision swam, and my breath stilled when I heard the sound of a body hitting the ground heavily, heart rising into my throat as my eyes focused.

Rhys was kneeling on the ground before Amarantha who had risen to her feet, a sword pressed against the back of his neck as she snarled at him, hands curled into his hair, forcing his head back. I could see the fight in the strain in his shoulders, like he was battling her in his mind, but his body was trembling.

“Oh, I do like you on your knees.” Amarantha bared her teeth, and something shifted in my chest, blooming into a soundless roar as I pushed myself to my feet. My fingers closed around the hilt of the sword I had dropped, the heavy blade beginning to glow in my grip, and Amarantha raised her head and scoffed.

“Don´t be ridiculous.” She snarled even as she stepped away, Rhys caught frozen, limbs trembling in a vain effort to free himself. “I posses the powers of all the High Lords of Prythian. No iron, no steel can defeat me, not even your powers. I have killed Fae for centuries.” Her eyes flickered over me, her lips curling. “You´re no match for me, little faerie.”

Golden whisps of magic began to rise around me, the branches of the trees growing out of the stone rustling with a harsh wind, the vines creaking as they slithered, bowing into my direction as I walked towards Amarantha, magic beginning to grow under my skin until I could feel it glow.

I deflected the first blow of Amarantha´s sword as it came crashing down, the force making the mountain rumble. Then I swerved to the right, blade slashing through the air as the space around us started to vibrate with power and my sword started to glow.

“Give up!” Amarantha´s voice shook the hall like thunder. “You´ll never defeat me, you´ll just -”

My heart rose, and the mountain sang.

When my next blow came crashing down, it splintered Amarantha´s sword in two with a blast of golden power. She dropped the useless hilt, eyes growing wide as her head whipped up, and my sword sank into her chest, deeper and deeper until we were face to face.

 “You talk too much,”, I whispered.

A surge of power rippled through the air when I pulled the sword from Amarantha´s chest, and I could feel the wards trembling before they shattered, the whole mountain groaning as I whirled around swung my sword, the blade whizzing through the air and cleanly cutting off Amarantha´s head.

Blood spattered, and with a thud, the female´s lifeless body dropped to the ground. My sword clattered as it followed, the golden shimmer around me pulling back into my body, and suddenly, the world tilted.

My knees gave out, and I would have crashed to the floor if I hadn´t been caught, arms wrapping around me, and a familiar scent washed over me, causing my heart to jump weakly against my ribs. I head a voice, deep and familiar and utterly panicked, calling my name as a warm hand closed around the side of my face, shaking me gently, but my lids were suddenly very heavy, blinking becoming harder with the second. My body felt a bit like it was beginning to float, no more pain, only a strange, calm feeling, my limbs too heavy to move. Through the fog, I heard the voice, thick and trembling, words not quite reaching me, then something pressed against my temple, something warm nudging my cheek.

“Fight.”

~

Fight.

My eyes opened with a flutter, and I sucked in a sharp breath.

My gaze was blurry first, but I thought I saw a high ceiling, far above me, and felt arms holding me, propping me up against a warm, solid body that suddenly grew still. Blinking, I let my head roll to the side, and when my eyes met another pair, my heart skipped softly against my ribs at the sight of violet, gleaming with unshead tears and becoming wide when they found mine.

I blinked, feeling slowly seeping back into my body, and a small sound broke from the back of my throat.

“Ow,”, I mumbled softly.

Rhys stared at me, shimmering eyes blown wide. There were wet tear tracks on his cheeks, and his hand cradling my jaw was trembling, a look in his gaze that made something shift gently in my chest. But then he blinked, and the tears in his eyes welled as his lips curved and a sobbed laugh left him, deep and shaking my body, and Rhys dropped his head, his arms slipping around me until he was holding me to his chest as he pressed his nose against my temple. I could feel his shuddering exhale, and how tears began to soak my hair, and something rose in my chest, fluttering wildly as it surged and causing me to swallow.

Rhys´ grip tightened, then he lightly pulled back his head. His hand slipped to rest against the side of my neck, and my breath hitched, stumbling until it stilled when he slowly started to smile at me. Smiled, wide and radiant until deep creases formed in his cheeks and his violet eyes twinkled like a sky full of stars, his deep voice quiet and hoarse when he whispered: “Hello, starshine.”

~

Stepping out into the cool morning air, I breathed in deeply, closing my eyes for a second. My body was still aching a little, my head thrumming, but it was duller now, like it was slowly ebbing away. The magic under my skin was no longer raging and whirling, instead buzzing softly from the healing I had done in the last few hours, Fae and faeries alike.

The wards had come down, the second Amarantha had died. Shortly after, the doors to the hall had burst open, and Rhys had gripped me tighter when all the High Lords had stormed inside, their newly returned powers thrumming just like the male holding me.

He had reluctantly left me alone, only after several insurances that I was fine and some mild teasing threats, his swagger returning to him as his mask slipped into place as he had joined the High Lords standing over Amarantha´s body, her severed head staring lifelessly into the air.

Dropping my shoulders and stretching them slowly, my skin tingled gently right under my shoulder blades, and like instinct, I reached back, twisting my arm until I could brush my fingers over the spot where only a few hours ago, a dagger had nearly, maybe taken my life. The skin was soft there, and unblemished, as Rhys had showed me with a quick glimpse into my head. Like there had never been any wound in the first place.

Letting my arm fall back to my side, I breathed out again before turning, and my heart did a soft skip when my gaze landed on the familiar male a bit away, standing on a ledge, head tipped back as he stared up at the sky that was slowly turning from a pale blue into a soft pink.

My heart skipped softly, and I hesitated for a second, then I carefully stepped onto the big ledge and softly called: “Rhys?”

My soft voice carried through the cool air, and when he looked over his shoulder, my chest tightened harshly.

Tears were running over his skin, his eyes shimmering as they reflected the sky, and I hesitated only a second before moving, stretching to slip my arms around his shoulders.

Rhys breathed out with a shudder, and his hands closed around my waist, pulling me tightly into his chest, then he turned his head and buried his face in the crook of my neck. I could feel his tears drip onto my skin as soundless sobs left his body trembling, and my heart tightened harshly as my eyes filled with tears. Quickly pressing my nose against his shoulder, I let his feelings wash over me, my chest aching as tears trickled over my cheeks and I buried my fingers in his hair.

By the time Rhys´ sobs had faded away, the tears on my shoulder dried as he just held me, the sun had started to rise on the horizon.

Carefully pulling back a bit, I looked up at him, finding his eyes already on my face, raw with emotion I couldn´t quite decipher.

“Go home,”, I whispered softly, and a shudder went through Rhys´ body, his hands tightening their grip around my waist for a moment. His eyes searched mine, then he blinked.

“Come with me.”

I blinked, feeling my lips open in surprise as I stared up at him. There was no hesitation in his eyes, no doubt, nothing. Just something that looked a bit like a soft plead.

I blinked, and warmth slowly spread through my body, something closing gently around my throat.

“I can´t,”, I mumbled, and Rhys´ grip loosened, causing me to quickly curl my fingers into his shirt. “No, I just,”, I huffed a little, frowning at him, "not yet." Breathing out, I tipped my head to the side and sent him a soft, helpless smile. “There are still so many in there who need my help. And in the courts. I can´t just –“

Rhys exhaled, and my heart skipped into my throat when he dropped his head to rest his forehead against mine, his hands gently closing around my hips.

“You´re awfully inconsistent, you know that?”, he grumbled. “You claim to not like the High Fae, and yet, you´re helping them.”

“I know.” I gently tapped my finger against his chest. “I mean, I like you, and that´s a miracle.”

Rhys huffed, and I grinned softly before pulling back and mumbling: “They´ve suffered enough for a while.”

Rhys blinked, and his eyes moved over my face, something beginning to glow gently in his iris. Then he blinked. “Promise that when you´re finished, you´ll come to Velaris.”

Staring up at him, I felt my heart flutter genly against my ribs. Then I blinked and slowly smiled, soft and cheeky.

“I promise.”

Rhys´ eyes flickered over mine, and something tightened in my chest, my heart skipping when I quickly said: “Promise you´ll find me if you need me?”

The male´s gaze moved over my face, and slowly, one corner of his lips rose, just the tiniest bit.

“Promise,”, he mumbled, his deep voice sending a soft tingle down my spine, and I breathed out, a weight slipping from my shoulders when I stretched to press my lips firmly onto his cheek.

Rhys´ grip around me tightened, and my heart skipped into my throat, then I let myself sink back to the ground, and for nothing but a second, his head seemed to follow me. Then he blinked and slowly straightened again, staring down at me, a light in his eyes that made my breath hitch gently.

Slowly, I took a step backwards, sending him a soft, crooked smile as I lightly poked his chest. “Go.” Warmth spread through my chest as I raised my brows. “They´ve been waiting long enough.”

Rhys exhaled, a weight seeming to slip from his shoulders, and I turned around. I could feel his eyes track me as I made my way back towards the entrance in the mountain.

When I looked back before stepping through, he was gone like the night breeze.

______________________________________________________________

@starswholistenanddreamsanswered @stayinglow-exploringworlds @tcris2020

Faking dating with Cassian? Happy ending too please :(

OMG

Been thinking about this for a long time now

Maybe but just MAYBE I got carried away in this one, 4.6k words are not even THAT much... right?

Anyway, loved this 🥺🥺🥺🥺🥺🥺 cass is so cute

I love my bat boys, hope you guys love them too

I'm doing my barbie nails so if something is wrong in this piece is probably because I'm trying mot to fuck my whole nail work while i type

Burn For You

Cassian strolled through the opulent ballroom of the Court of Nightmares, where the air was thick with intrigue and danger with yet another party Rhysand was throwing for his subjects. He took a sip of his drink, keeping an eye out for any potential threats to the peace of the Night Court. As he glanced around, his attention was drawn to a commotion nearby.

In a dimly lit corner, he noticed a young female struggling to distance herself from the clutches of an aggressive suitor. Her hair cascaded around her shoulders, and her determined expression caught Cassian's attention. Without a second thought, he decided to intervene. He marched over with purpose, acting on instinct to protect someone in need.

-Is everything alright here? - He asked, sliding smoothly into the role of the female's savior. Well, your savior. You looked surprised by his sudden appearance, having heard of whispers and tales about the scary General of the Night Court, and right now, in the low light with the most threatening expression you ever saw someone using, you believed every word you heard. Your eyes quickly darted between Cassian and the persistent suitor.

-Yes, thank you - You replied, voice strained as you tried to maintain your composure.

-Great - Cassian replied with a charming smile, looping an arm around your waist and drawing you closer to him, exchanging looks with the other male - My apologies for being away for so long, love - He said, trying to sell the act convincingly. Your eyes widened in disbelief, and you tried to pull away from him.

-Wait, what are you doing? - You whispered, voice filled with alarm.

-It's called "pretending," my lady, - Cassian whispered back, equally alarmed by the situation but determined to see it through.

-I'm sorry, I thought you were alone - The male replied quickly, fear shaking in his voice - If you excuse me - Once he left you finally pulled away from the General, looking around you noticed the dozens of eyes observing your interaction.

-Why would you do that? - The question flew out of your mouth the second you saw everyone changing their gazes to somewhere else.

-Not even a "thank you"? - He jokes, but your face tells him it's not time for it - I saw you were in distress, and it's a trick that works well in Velaris, those inconvenients fear this bunch of muscles when they see me - He funnily flexes his muscles but your face doesn't show anything but distress.

-What works well in your Velaris or whatever doesn't work the same way here - You hissed, cheeks flushed with embarrassment - This is the Court of Nightmares, and claiming to be someone's partner is a serious matter. He didn't fear you, he feared your possession over me - Cassian's expression faltered for a moment as the gravity of his mistake hit him. He had been too caught up in the idea of helping someone in need, and he hadn't considered the ramifications of his actions in the dangerous Court you were in.

-I'm sorry - He began sincerely - I didn't know. I saw you in trouble, and I thought I could help - Realizing his error, he quickly guided you away from the party and into a quieter alcove.

-You need to understand that here if a male claims to be a female's partner, it's equivalent to a proposal. And once that happens, it can't be undone easily - Your anger was evident in your voice tone, but you took a deep breath, trying to steady your emotions.

-I had no idea. I didn't mean to put you in such a difficult situation - Cassian's eyes widened in surprise and concern.

-It's not your fault - You replied, your voice softening slightly - But you must be cautious in the Court of Nightmares. My father has been trying to marry me off to secure alliances, and if he hears about this, things could get even more complicated.

-I'll do whatever I can to help you get out of this situation - Cassian assured you, feeling a weight of responsibility on his shoulders - I was just trying to help.

-Thank you. But for now, we should keep our distance and pretend this never happened, maybe hoping that whoever saw or heard us won't tell my father. It's for both our sakes - You studied him for a moment, and despite your initial anger, a glimmer of gratitude shone in your eyes. Maybe he wasn't as bad as people talked.

-Whatever you think is best, I'll let you take the lead. Just know that if you ever need help, I'll be here.

With an uneasy truce settled between you, you both returned to the party at different times, every pair of eyes burdened in your back with the possible knowledge of the tangled web you now found yourself in. Cassian couldn't shake the feeling that the encounter in the Court of Nightmares would have far-reaching consequences, and he silently vowed to protect you from any harm that might come.

Little did both of you know that your paths were now irrevocably intertwined. It didn't take a full week until Cassian found himself on the receiving end of a rather urgent call from Rhysand. With a sense of trepidation, he answered the summons and flew to the High Lord's study in the Town House. Rhysand was seated behind his ornate desk, a mix of concern and exasperation in his piercing violet eyes.

-Cassian - He began, his voice measured - Care to explain why there's a very excited, rich male in my living room, asking for my permission to talk to his daughter's fiancé - Cassian sighed, running a hand through his hair.

-It's a long story, Rhys, but you know how I tried to help that girl at the last party? Turns out, claiming to be her boyfriend in the Court of Nightmares is a serious matter - Rhysand raised an eyebrow, not believing what his ears were listening

-I thought it might be something like that. Go on - Cassian recounted the events from that night and the subsequent secret conversation with you, explaining how you unintentionally became entangled in a fake dating due to his misguided attempt to help you.

-And, apparently, I was drunk enough to forget every single lesson you made me and Azriel take about the Court of Nightmares and the things we weren't supposed to do - Rhysand listened attentively, nodding thoughtfully as the pieces fell into place - And I did.

-I understand, Cassian, and I appreciate that you were trying to do the right thing. However, this situation is delicate. Her father holds considerable influence, and his support is crucial for the stability of the Night Court. We can't risk alienating him - Cassian clenched his jaw, realizing the gravity of the situation.

-I know, Rhys, but I don't want to hurt the poor girl either. She's caught in the middle of all this, and I can't just walk away from her, leave her to deal with the consequences of my mistake - He talked exasperated, head filled with thoughts - If I break up this non-existent relationship she will be forever ruined in the Hewn City. They will destroy her reputation - Rhysand sighed, his eyes softening with understanding.

-I don't want you to walk away either, Cassian. But for the time being, I think we need to maintain the appearance of this fake relationship. At least until we figure out a more delicate way to extricate ourselves from this mess - Cassian frowned, feeling the weight of his loyalty to the Night Court

-So, you want me to continue pretending to be in a relationship with her? Won't that be leading her on? - Rhysand leaned back in his chair, his expression serious.

-It's a risk we have to take, talk with her and sort things out for now. But we'll find a solution. We always do. Just be mindful of your actions and words. We can't afford any missteps again - Cassian nodded, accepting the responsibility.

-I understand, Rhys. I'll do my best to handle this. But we need to find a way to free her from this situation eventually - Rhysand placed a reassuring hand on Cassian's shoulder.

-We will, Cassian. For now, keep up with the appearances, and I'll see what I can do to get through this political minefield - With a newfound sense of purpose, Cassian left Rhysand's study, determined to protect you and find a way out of this mess.

Weeks passed, and the tension between Cassian and your family only grew. Your father remained in absolute bliss, while Rhysand worked tirelessly to find a way to mend the situation without compromising the Night Court's alliances. One evening, Cassian found himself pacing restlessly in his quarters, his mind racing with worry and uncertainty. He knew he had unintentionally entangled you in a mess you never asked for, and he couldn't bear to see you suffer the consequences.

Finally, unable to contain his emotions any longer, Cassian made his way to your house. He knocked softly, and when the door opened, he found you looking surprised by his visit, weeks going by without any news that didn't come from your father.

-Cassian? Is everything alright? - you asked, concern evident in your eyes. He took a deep breath, steeling himself for what he was about to propose.

-No, everything's not alright. This situation is tearing my mind apart, and I don't know what to do about it - You gestured for him to come in, and you sat down facing each other.

-I know. But we can't just run away from it. Everyone knows or thinks you are going to propose anytime soon. They are already whimpering about you breaking off the relationship or whatever - Cassian nodded, his heart heavy with guilt and anger for those who commented these types of things about you.

-I know, and I will take responsibility for my mistakes. But I can't let you suffer for them anymore. There's a way we can protect your reputation and undo this mess - You looked at him with curiosity.

-How? - He hesitated for a moment before blurting out.

-Marry me. In name only, like a fake relationship until Rhysand figures out how to untangle us from this situation. We can tell our families that we're together, but in reality, we won't have to be. It's the best way to protect you from any harm or comment that might come your way - Your eyes widened, feeling taken aback by his desperate suggestion.

-Cassian, I don't know if that's the right thing to do. Marrying for appearances, it's not fair to you, or me.

-I know it's not fair - He admitted, his voice raw with emotion - But it's the only way I can think of to keep you safe, to give Rhysand the time he needs to do the political things he has to do or whatever. That's why I'm the general, not the counselor - You chuckle at him, feeling better by seeing him so engaged in the idea of helping you.

-What if this becomes even more complicated? What if we break up and everyone starts saying that I am ruined? - Cassian's gaze softened, and he took your hand in his.

-If that happens, we'll deal with it together. Rhys can punish them, or Azriel, or even me. I'll fight for your reputation, dearest lady, don't you worry - You laugh even harder, easing your emotions - But for now, it's the only plan I can come up with to protect you and your family.

-Okay, Cassian, the General. I'll do it. I'll pretend to be in a relationship with you for the sake of my own life. But promise me one thing - You said, lifting one finger in front of him.

-Anything - He replied, his heart racing.

-Promise me that you'll be honest with me, that you won't let this fake relationship consume us. Even if it's fake I want to be your friend - His smile could make him even prettier, his whole lighting up as he took your hand and kissed it.

-I promise, future wife. We'll do this together, and I won't let anything bad happen to us - You felt a tingling sensation burning down in your back, between your shoulders. As you were preparing to ask what happened, you heard a scream that certainly made its way toward the whole mountain.

-He proposed! Mother he proposed! - Your sister started to scream around the house, having heard only the last part of the conversation - Sister is going to marry the big General!

It didn't take long for the news to reach the Moonlight Palace and consequently the High Lord's Inner Circle. The ones who happened to be your fake husband's family. And the ones who were sitting with you at the dinner table.

In a grand, candle-lit dining hall within the Night Court, Cassian and you found yourselves surrounded by the Inner Circle and your own family. The atmosphere was charged with a mix of curiosity, excitement, and apprehension, as everyone gathered to discuss the unexpected turn of events.

On one side were your parents, your father being an imposing male with a commanding presence, and your mother, elegant and astute, sat close to the High Lord at a long table, flanked by your siblings and yourself. The Inner Circle occupied the seats on the other side, with Rhysand at the head of the table, as the High Lord.

Cassian's heart raced, knowing that this dinner was definitely his fault. Just as the whole situation. Beside him, you clasped his hand, offering silent support. Rhysand, with his customary charm, raised his glass.

-To new alliances and unforeseen connections - He proposed, his eyes twinkling with meaning. Cassian told you that Rhysand knew about the truth, him being the one that gave the idea of it. The clinking of glasses echoed through the hall as they all toasted to the unexpected turn of events.

-Cassian, I must admit I was surprised by your interest in my daughter. Your reputation as a fierce warrior precedes you in this Court - Your father spoke, his voice resonating with authority. Cassian nodded, trying to keep his composure under the scrutinizing gaze.

-Yes, my lord. I value honor, loyalty, and protecting those I care for. I see those same qualities in your daughter - He squeezed your hand harder, trying to keep his emotions at bay.

-Our daughter has spoken highly of you as well, Cassian. She admires your bravery and kindness - Your mother chimed in with a smile, you may or may have not spent a whole day talking about him to your mom. To keep everything trustful, you thought to yourself.

-So, you're going to be my brother now, huh? - Your younger sister teased, causing laughter to ripple through the room.

-This is a significant proposal, and I will need to consider it carefully. My daughter's happiness and our family's alliance are paramount - Amidst the light-hearted banter, the mood turned serious as your father leaned forward, noticing your intertwined hands.

Cassian understood the weight of his words. He had to tread carefully, knowing that one wrong move could endanger everything you had.

-Father, I ask for your trust in this matter. Cassian and I care for each other deeply. Our bond may have started as a secret, but it has grown into something bigger than ourselves - You spoke up, trying to keep your voice steady as the lies flew from your mouth.

-You know how important this alliance is for our family - He replies carefully, looking at each member of the Inner Circle, his future family - But I can see that your feelings for Cassian are genuine.

-Perhaps we can explore this further, and take some time to get to know Cassian and his intentions. After all, we don't want to rush into any decisions - Your mother interjected, offering a reassuring smile to you and your "husband". Cassian appreciated the gesture of openness. He knew that this meeting could have taken a different, more hostile turn since the insults of him being a lowborn Illyrian bastard could easily bring shame towards your family.

-That sounds like a reasonable approach. We don't want to rush anyone into something they're not ready for. Let's give us time to plan the whole wedding, no need for speed - Rhysand spoke again, regaining control of the situation. Cassian nodded, grateful for Rhysand's support.

-Of course. I want nothing more than to ensure your daughter's happiness and earn the trust of her family.

Throughout the evening, the conversation flowed, a delicate balance of diplomacy and heartfelt emotions. Cassian and you shared a good amount of lies about your time together, shedding light on the "genuine" connection you held.

With nothing much more than that, the dinner concluded, and the families bid their farewells. You and Cassian stepped outside, finding a moment of quiet away from the gathering.

-I think it went well - You whispered, fearing anyone would hear.

-It did. Your family seems open to the possibility. Let's give them time to get to know me better - Cassian squeezed your hand gently, both of you looking like the newly engaged love birds everyone thought you were.

-I believe they will come around. Let's be patient and trust in our acting skills, it might work in the end.

As the days turned into weeks, you and Cassian found yourselves spending an extraordinary amount of time together, planning and deciding the details of the fake marriage. What started as a game to choose your favorite things had become a heated and long discussion that neither of you had anticipated.

In the beginning, your conversations were guarded, and the interactions tinged with formality. But as the weeks went by, you discovered that you genuinely enjoyed each other's company. Laughter and lighthearted banter started to fill the air whenever you both were together.

One evening, you found yourselves in a luxurious library within the Moonlight Palace, going through various wedding arrangements and traditions.

-Do we really need a dozen flower girls? - You quickly quipped, a mischievous glint passing through your eyes.

-I don't think we need that many, but it would be a sight to see - Cassian chuckled, the sound warm and contagious. As he passed through the pages of a book on wedding cakes, you started to laugh once he stopped in one image.

-Why do they all have to be towering masterpieces? Can't we have a cake that doesn't threaten to fall over? - He tried to imagine the cake in real life, only to fall in laughter too.

-I agree. Maybe a cake we can actually eat without fearing for our lives is better - Cassian grinned, feeling a newfound ease in your presence.

Your laughter echoed through the library, and in that moment, the line between pretending and reality blurred for a while, you found joy in each other's quirks and preferences, discovering that your tastes often aligned.

Weeks quickly turned into months, and your interactions grew more comfortable. You often confided in each other about your hopes and dreams, fears and uncertainties. You shared secrets with him under dresses and tailors deciding things around you in all playful moments during the day.

Yet, you couldn't dare to speak of the emotions that were blossoming within your heart. The unspoken love that grew stronger with each passing day remained a tender secret you guarded. One night, as you sat with him on a balcony overlooking the starry night, you finally broke the tension that formed with the silence that not so often hung between you.

-Cassian - You called off for him, your voice soft but hesitant - This fake marriage has become so much more than we anticipated, hasn't it? - He turned to you, his eyes reflecting the constellations above.

-Yes, it has - He replied, his voice tinged with emotion - I never expected to feel so comfortable around you, Starlight. It feels almost weird every time I get home and remember that we were supposed to be pretending - He looked deep into your eyes, trying to pass all the emotion he held - I'm not pretending - You looked down in shyness, fingers tracing patterns on your red dress. His red.

-I'm not either - You admitted before looking back at him - I find myself looking forward to our time together, to the laughter we share, and the moments we spent just talking - Cassian reached for your hand, intertwining your fingers.

-Me too, I've never met someone like you, someone who challenges me so much in my decisions and makes me want to learn things all the time. You make me feel alive - He whispered the last sentence, fearing it was a dream.

-I don't know where this will lead us, but I want to find out - You smiled at him, leaning your head to his shoulder, slowly letting yourself feel the calming aura that usually hit you as you breathed in his scent. The last thing you felt was his wing wrapping around you as you drifted to sleep.

It didn't take much longer until Rhysand called Cassian to his private study, the room dimly lit by the soft glow of starlight streaming through the open window.

-I think I finally have a plan to break up the marriage - Rhysand said, his eyes gleaming with determination.

-What is it? - Cassian nodded, eager to hear the solution his friend had come up with.

-We'll stage a political scandal that will give her family a way out of the marriage without losing face. We put the blame on us, make sure everyone knows we are the problem, and done, problem solved - Rhysand explained - It's a delicate move and it needs a lot of planning, but I believe it will work - Cassian listened attentively, but a nagging uncertainty weighed on his heart.

-It's a good plan, Rhys, but...

-But what? - Rhysand asked, sensing Cassian's hesitation.

-I've spent so much time with her during this fake relationship, and I can't shake the feeling that it's become more than just a pretense - Cassian took a deep breath, struggling to put his thoughts into words - I care about her deeply, and I don't want to leave her.

-Cassian, do you know what this means? - Rhysand regarded him with understanding, a knowing glint in his eyes.

-What? - Cassian furrowed his brow.

-It means you're in love with her - Rhysand took a step closer, his voice gentle yet firm.

-I don't know. It's complicated. We started this as a lie, and I don't want to confuse her or myself - Cassian's heart skipped a beat, and he looked away, unable to meet Rhysand's gaze.

-Love is never straightforward, brother. Sometimes, it comes unexpectedly, in the most unlikely circumstances. But it's real, and you can't deny what you feel - Rhys placed a hand on Cassian's shoulder, his voice steady, very much the High Lord he was.

-I'm scared, Rhys. Scared of losing her, scared of making another mistake - Cassian swallowed hard, the truth in his brother's words resonating within him.

-Fear is a part of love, but it shouldn't hold you back. You need to talk to her, be honest about how you feel. It's the only way to find out if she feels the same - Rhysand smiled reassuringly - Maybe it'll make all the money I already spent in planning this whole thing worth it.

-You're right. I need to talk to her - Cassian nodded, a mix of hope and trepidation swirling in his chest, not even noticing the joke. Rhysand only clapped him on the back, a mischievous glint in his eyes.

-Good. Now, go find her and tell her everything. And when you do, make sure to propose properly. None of this stupid weird fake proposal nonsense - He said with a smirk.

-Thank you, Rhys. I don't know what I'd do without you - Cassian chuckled, feeling a sense of clarity settling over him.

-That's what family is for. Now, go. Time is flying.

With renewed determination, Cassian left the study, his heart alight with the prospect of finally being honest about his feelings. He flew all the way to the Hewn City, its guards already used to him getting in and out of the mountain without the High Lord. He sought you out, ready to lay his heart bare and find out if his love was meant to be.

Under the twinkling fae lights that illuminated the Moonlight Palace - your official residence now, as a future member of the Inner Circle. Cassian found you standing on one of the palace balconies, your gaze fixed on the projected stars above. He took a deep breath, feeling a mix of nerves and excitement swirling within him.

-Starlight? - His voice startled you, the nickname making you blush slightly - We need to talk.

-Of course, Cass. What is it? - You turned to face him, your eyes filled with a mix of curiosity and concern. He stepped closer to you, taking your hands in his, he looked into your eyes, searching for the right words

- I've spent these past months with you, pretending that our relationship was a farce. But the truth is, it stopped feeling like a pretense a long time ago - Your breath slipped a little, and your heart raced as you waited for him to continue - Rhysand found a way to break the marriage but I don't think we should. I don't want to. I care about you deeply, my star. I didn't plan on falling in love with you, but I did, and I can't deny it any longer.

-Cassian, I... I feel the same way - You whispered and saw when relief washed over him, and he cupped your cheek gently.

-You do? - Hope was evident in his voice, happiness washing over him completely.

-Yes - You replied, your voice barely above a whisper - I didn't know how to tell you, how to deal with these feelings. I never expected this, but I've fallen in love with you too.

-Then let's stop pretending - He said, his heart soaring with joy as he approached you - Let's make this real.

-Let's make this real - You looked up at him, eyes shining with love and happiness as you let yourself laugh when he got down on one knee. He pulled out a small velvet box from his pocket and opened it, revealing a delicate ring with a glistening red gemstone. A piece of his siphon, you realized.

-My love, my starlight, will you do me the honor of being my wife? Truthfully, this time He asked, his voice filled with love and sincerity. Tears of happiness welled up in your eyes as you nodded, heart overflowing with love.

-Yes, Cassian. I will - With a tender smile, he slipped the ring onto your finger, sealing your love with a promise that went beyond any pretense or arrangement - Truthfully this time - You whispered when he got up, getting closer to your face with a smile that could illuminate the whole mountain.

And then, with the glistening stars as your witness, Cassian leaned in and finally kissed you. His lips travel into yours with a promise of love and happiness in your life together.

As he broke apart, he stayed a bit distant from you, seeming to be analyzing your whole face before kissing you one more time.

-I love you, Starlight - Cassian whispered against your lips, eyes looking all over your face - I can't believe I'm that lucky.

-And I love you, Bat Boy - You replied, the nickname making him laugh before he threw you around his shoulder and took you inside the room you both would soon share.

Maybe things in the Court of Nightmares did work the same way as in Velaris. Love is anywhere people could find it.

Solo Dad Rhys!!!! Fluff piece!!!

AHAHAJAJAJSKSKAKAIAIA I LOVE RHYSAND SO MUCH

I'm sorry for giving a villain arc to Feyre but HEY history needs to happen okay?

Nyxie baby cutie boo making his first appearance in my blog, welcome babyyyy

My mind just went FUOOOOOON once I imagined the story, I SWEAR I was riding my bike when I thought of this and had to stop middle way to my house just to think it better

Yes I changed the lyrics of Wait For It to fit the history, and yes I invented a whole bunch of shit about velaris WHO CARES

KEEP SENDING REQUESTS I LOVE DOING THIS

Wait For It

In the breathtaking realm of the Night Court, the stars gleamed like diamonds in the obsidian sky, casting their ethereal glow upon the majestic city of Velaris below. Amidst the grandeur of the court, Nyx, a cherubic young boy of ten, with unruly dark curls and captivating violet eyes, eagerly awaited his Wednesday night escapade.

Nyx's parents were once deeply in love, but Feyre, burdened by a restless heart, had returned to her once fiancee, Tamlin, High Lord of the Spring Court, after giving birth. In the aftermath of her choices, she had bitterly slandered Rhysand and his family, a web of lies that entangled them in trouble. Despite the turmoil, Rhysand only devoted himself to raising Nyx, juggling the responsibilities of both a powerful High Lord and a dedicated father.

But Nyx had a little secret, a sanctuary that filled his heart with joy amidst the chaos. Every Wednesday night, he would give his father an innocent lie, claiming to attend "extra classes" while secretly venturing to the grand theater of Velaris in the bursting heart of music and arts of the Rainbow.

The first time it happened was pure coincidence. The grand theater of Velaris hummed with the anticipation of the evening's performance. Nyx had just learned how to winnow and having his father's mischievous spirit, he went after the wave of emotion that spread everywhere he went, sneaking into an empty booth Nyx sat in awe, waiting to witness the lady everyone affectionately called "Starlight" take the stage once more. He wore a dashing little suit, feeling every inch a proper gentleman as he eagerly anticipated the show.

As the curtains rose, Nyx's eyes widened in wonderment as "Miss Starlight" appeared, bathed in the spotlight's embrace. Her voice, like a thousand twinkling stars, filled the theater, capturing hearts with its enchanting melody. She actually portrayed a character named Starlight, who reunited the story of Velaris and told it in a song, bringing the city to life and giving it a soul she shared with on stage.

When the final notes of the performance echoed through the theater, the audience erupted in thunderous applause. Nyx, who had been clapping with glee, could hardly contain his excitement as he jumped up from his seat. He knew that he had to speak to her, to let her know how much he adored her singing. With determination in his heart, Nyx slipped away from the public side, weaving through the crowd until he reached the backstage area. His little heart pounded with nervous excitement, but he couldn't let fear hold him back, he knew this was his chance to talk to the performer.

Peeking around the corner, he spotted her, still dressed in her celestial attire, chatting with some of the crew. Nyx took a deep breath, mustering all the bravery a seven-year-old could have, and stepped forward, clutching a small bouquet of flowers he had summoned from his auntie Elain's garden.

- Um, excuse me, miss Starlight? - He called out softly, a touch of shyness evident in his voice. The lady turned, and a radiant smile graced her features as she noticed the adorable little boy approaching her.

- Why, hello there - She said warmly, going down on her knees to meet his eyes. Her sparkling dress made a pool of diamonds shine around her, making her look even more like an angel - And who are you, young man?

- I'm a big fan - He whispered in shyness, hands sweating as he offered her the bouquet and she took it.

- Is my big fan's name Nyx, I suppose? - She asked as if it was a secret, Nyx's eyes widened in surprise.

- You know my name? - She chuckled gently and offered him a hand, one he gladly took in.

- Of course, I remember you. You've been coming here with your father to see the renewal, haven't you? - Nyx's cheeks flushed with delight, feeling like he was known and seen by someone special.

- Yes! I love music, and I loved, even more, your singing, Miss Starlight. It's like true magic! - She laughed, even then she sounded like she was made of music.

- Well, thank you, Nyx. That's such a lovely compliment - She replied, touched by his sincerity. Nyx pointed to her bouquet, a bit shy when she held it close to her heart.

- These are for you. They're from the Night Court's garden - He proudly said and she smiled even more.

- Thank you, sweetheart - She said, looking at the flowers with gratitude - They're beautiful, just like you - His heart swelled with joy at the praise, and a wide grin spread across his face.

- Can I, um, watch all your performances, Miss Starlight? - Her eyes sparkled with warmth and affection.

- Oh, absolutely! I would be delighted to have my biggest fan in the audience at every show - Nyx beamed, feeling like the luckiest boy in all of Prythian.

- Yay! Thank you! - He ran to hug her, taking care to not step in her dress or ruin her hair which had sparkles that shined like the stars he loved to see. As their conversation continued, Nyx's initial shyness faded away, replaced by a blossoming friendship. The lady shared stories of her love for music and the theater, and Nyx listened with rapt attention, hanging on to her every word.

From that day forward, Nyx became a regular presence at her performances. He would sit in the front row or in the same booth when he didn't feel like gaining attention from the citizens, his eyes alight with wonder, as "Miss Starlight" sang and danced with grace and passion. And each time the curtains fell, she would come to greet him, and they would share heartwarming conversations that left Nyx feeling like he had found a kindred spirit.

Their bond grew stronger with each passing performance, and Nyx's admiration for "Miss Starlight" only deepened as the years passed. Their friendship was a radiant star in the young boy's life, casting a luminous glow on his days in the Night Court. And every time he watched her on that mesmerizing stage, he couldn't help but feel that he was in the presence of true magic. There, he would be enchanted over and over again by a sweet and lovely lady, her voice as mellifluous as the Night Court's nocturnal symphony.

It took years for Nyx to finally come up with a good and durable excuse for his lack of presence every Wednesday night, sometimes even missing dinner with his family when his favorite singer invited him to dine with the rest of the cast that presented the show. Unknown to Nyx, in one of his hidden escapes, his father was making his way across the city. Under the veil of night, the streets of Velaris were bathed in a silvery glow. High Lord Rhysand, cloaked in shadows, followed the path toward one of his favorite restaurants.

While he passed through some of the streets he met Nyx's teacher walking next to the River. Curious as to why she was there he trailed her discreetly, observing her every move with a mixture of concern and curiosity. As the lady entered a quaint restaurant, Rhysand waited a moment before stepping inside. He chose a discreet corner, keeping his features hidden from curious gazes. The restaurant hummed with soft conversation and the clinking of glasses, creating a cozy ambiance.

After what felt like an eternity, the lady emerged from the restroom, looking elegant and serene. Rhysand steadied himself, deciding it was time to confront her.

- Excuse me, miss - As she walked past his table, he spoke in a low, steady voice. She turned, her eyes meeting Rhysand's, and for a moment, he saw a glimmer of recognition. However, she quickly masked it with a polite smile.

- Yes, can I help you, my Lord? - Her face was calm, too calm for someone that was supposed to be with somebody else's son and not at a restaurant having a date.

- I believe you've been teaching my son, Nyx, for the past few years - Rhysand began, maintaining an air of formality.

- Oh, Nyx - She replied, her eyes brightening with fondness - Such a charming and talented young boy. He's been attending my classes for a while now, yes.

- I must apologize for any misunderstanding, but I can't seem to understand why you are here if he was supposed to be in class right now - The lady's expression faltered, and she seemed to grasp the seriousness of the situation.

- I... I don't have formal classes with him on Wednesdays, per se. Nyx has been coming every Saturday afternoon for his lessons - Rhysand became desperate for a second, and his heart clenched with worry for his son's safety.

- So he's been lying to me - He said, his voice tinged with disappointment. The lady's eyes softened with understanding.

- I'm sorry if I inadvertently became part of his secret. I never knew he was hiding the truth from you - His ears pricked at her words, curious as to why she didn't seem any sort of nervous

- What do you mean by "hiding the truth from me"? Do you know where he is? - She seemed confused for a second, before a smile plastered on her face.

- Everyone in the streets of the Rainbow knows where the little prince goes on Wednesdays, we all assumed you and your family knew too. It's not uncommon to find him walking down the city with the actors that play in the theater - His eyes softened at hearing his son was safe and his citizens were somehow taking care of him - I'm sorry for not noticing your lack of knowledge on his where being.

- You have nothing to apologize for - Rhysand replied, his tone gentler now - I appreciate your honesty. I was just worried for his safety once I saw you here.

- He's safe with the crew, they are lovely people to be around, I actually befriended some of them, there's nothing to fear - the lady assured him, her sincerity evident - He's such a joy around them, and he's genuinely passionate about music and theater. You need to listen to him talk about his "Miss Starlight" and detail every new performance of hers - Rhysand couldn't help but feel a hint of gratitude toward the lady for cherishing his son's company. A smile graced the lady's lips, and a sparkle danced in her eyes - He's a remarkable young boy, and it's been so sweet to hear him talk about this lady, you should probably meet her and thank this female for making him so happy. He's always so enthusiastic.

- I'm planning to talk to him about this - Rhysand said, his voice tinged with gratitude, though - But I would like to be informed of any action by him, apparently there are a lot of things I don't know about. Thank you once again - As she nodded with a small smile Rhysand quickly winnowed to the Town House, calling an urgent meeting with his family.

The Night Court's Inner Circle gathered in a quiet corner of the luxurious house, their faces reflecting concern and curiosity. Rhysand sat at the head of the table, his heart heavy with worry for his young son, Nyx. He had discovered Nyx's secret escapades to watch "Miss Starlight," the lady whose performances had captured his son's heart, and now he needed advice on how to handle the situation. Mor leaned forward, her brows furrowed with worry.

- So, he's been going to watch performances instead of attending classes, is that what you just said? - She asked, concern lacing her voice.

- Yes, and he's been lying about it for a while now, years probably. I didn't find out until this night when I found his teacher in a restaurant, and I'm not sure how to address it without making him feel ashamed - Rhysand nodded, his voice tinged with regret.

- He's a curious child, Rhysand. He probably felt the need to hide it because he thought you'd disapprove - Amren, always the pragmatic one, spoke up.

- I can understand why he'd be drawn to her performances. She's a true star on that stage - Cassian chimed in, his face thoughtful.

- And she's been wonderful with Nyx - Azriel added quietly - I've seen her interact with him after her shows, and the way he lights up in her presence is undeniable.

- Wait, wait, wait, both knew he was going to her performances and none of you thought about telling me? - His brother's expression fell at their mistake, slowly looking at each other before looking at their High Lord again.

- Maybe? I mean, we saw him on the front row once and when we made sure he was safe we left him there - Cassian explained first, exchanging looks with the shadowsinger.

- We were waiting for him to tell you - Azriel closed the conversation, looking at the ground in shame.

- Hold on, the actress we are talking about is the one who played Edwina in "Whimsical Serenade"? - As Cassian and Azriel eagerly agreed, their faces lighting up, Morrigan laughs hard, finally understanding the whole situation - Of course! It all makes sense now! Even I lied to you once to go watch her performance with Elain. I didn't notice Nyx there, though.

- Isn't she the one who plays Rhysand in "A High Lord's Duel"? - Amren jumps in the conversation, and Nestha's eyes widened at the mention - Holy shit, she is amazing. It actually scared me how well she incorporates Rhysand in the scenes with Tamlin.

- If so she is the one who plays Eliza in "A Heartfelt Symphony" - All of them agreed to her statement, starting a discussion about her talent and performances.

- Let me get this straight, all of you watched her at least once? - As the Inner Circle discussed Nyx's infatuation with "Miss Starlight", as well as their experiences with her, unbeknownst to them, the young boy himself stood at the doorway, eavesdropping on the conversation with a mix of fear and guilt. He knew he had let his father down, and he dreaded facing the consequences of his actions.

Before Nyx could retreat, Mor's keen senses detected his presence. She glanced towards the door and smiled warmly at him.

- Nyx, come on in. We were just discussing your little adventures - His little heart pounded in his chest, but he knew he couldn't hide anymore. Nyx took a deep breath and stepped into the room, his violet eyes meeting his father's concerned gaze.

- Nyx - Rhysand began gently - We know about your visits to watch the shows at the theater. Why didn't you tell me the truth?

- I didn't want you to be angry with me, Papa. I love her singing, and I didn't think you'd let me go if you knew - Nyx's shoulders slumped, his voice small.

- Nyx, I'm not angry with you. I just want to know the truth. You don't have to hide anything from me - Rhysand softened, understanding his son's fear.

- Plus, we all know about her. You're not the only one who's watched her perform, little one - Mor grinned, her eyes twinkling mischievously. Nyx's eyes widened in surprise, and he looked around at the Inner Circle, finding nods of agreement from each of them. The knowledge that everyone knew and still supported him brought a smile to his face.

- You guys have seen her too? - Nyx asked in awe.

- Of course! We had to make sure you weren't getting into any trouble, boo - Cassian chuckled.

- Papa, please come with me to the next show. She's amazing, and I think you'll like her too - Nyx turned back to his father, his eyes earnest.

- Yes, Daddy, Miss Starlight is the best in the whole wide world - Nestha chuckled before earning a warning glare from the High Lord.

- All right, Nyx. I'll go with you, and we can enjoy her performance together - Rhysand's heart swelled with love for his son and his genuine enthusiasm.

Nyx beamed, feeling a sense of relief wash over him. He knew he could trust his father, and having him there by his side meant the world to him. And so, with the support of the Inner Circle and his loving father, Nyx felt a newfound sense of confidence. He had learned that honesty and trust were the building blocks of their family, and he was eager to share the magic of "Miss Starlight" with the one person he loved most in the world – his Papa, the High Lord of the Night Court.

As fate would have it, one week later they arrived at the theater, Rhysand's heart pounding in his chest with a nervousness he hadn't felt for years. He let Nyx guide them to one of the booths that held an upper vision of the scenario, his son kept gazing at the stage with an enchantment that seemed to hold a spell over him. The performance began, and a whole bunch of songs were being presented that night. The musical was called "The Whole World of the Night Court", each actor portraying a different city of his territory, telling its story in the form of a song.

The lights turned off again, and Nyx started to shake completely in his chair with excitement. As the grand theater's velvet curtains parted, a hushed anticipation swept through the audience. A spotlight illuminated the stage, and there she stood, "Miss Starlight," bathed in a celestial aura, ready to weave her magic once more. Rhysand sat straighter in his seat, his heart fluttering with both curiosity and the enchantment that surrounded the mysterious lady, a sudden uneasiness taking his body.

As for Nyx, his wide violet eyes were shimmering with excitement, his small hands gripping the edge of the plush seat. He was eager to share this moment with his Papa, to introduce him to the magic that had captured his young heart. Her, interpreting once again her character Starlight, began to tell Velaris stories to the public as if it was her own, eyes shimmering at each word. Suddenly the orchestra began to play a mesmerizing melody, and the lady took a deep breath, her voice tinged with emotion as she began to sing. The soulful notes of the piano accompanied her melodic voice, setting the stage for the tale she was about to tell.

- Theodosia writes me a letter every day; I'm keeping the bed warm while her father is away, He's on the human side in Prythian; He's trying to keep the colonies in line; But he can keep all of Prythian; Theodosia, she's mine - She sang, making a clear reference to the firstly High Lord that idealized Velaris as a gift to his wife, Theodosia. This fact made Rhysand even more aware of the spectacle.

- Love doesn't discriminate; Between the sinners and the saints; It takes, and it takes, and it takes; And we keep loving anyway; We laugh, and we cry, and we break, and we make our mistakes; And if there's a reason I'm by her side; When so many have tried; Then I'm willing to wait for it; I'm willing to wait for it.

With a glance at Nyx, who was completely enthralled by the performance, Rhysand knew that this lady had the power to touch hearts and ignite imaginations.

- My grandfather was a fire and brimstone preacher; But there are things that the homilies and hymns won't teach ya; My mother was a genius; My father commanded respect; When they died, they left no instructions; Just a legacy to protect - At that she clearly meant the legacy every High Lord had to carry to protect the city, himself being one of the many that had to sacrifice a lot to keep the secret - Death doesn't discriminate; Between the sinners and the saints; It takes, and it takes, and it takes; And we keep living anyway; We rise, and we fall, and we break, and we make our mistakes; And if there's a reason I'm still alive; When everyone who loves me has died; I'm willing to wait for it; I'm willing to wait for it.

As the chorus echoed through the theater, Rhysand felt a connection to the song's message. He understood the yearning for something that might be just out of reach, and it resonated deep within his soul.

- Wait for it, wait for it, wait for it, wait - The quiet intensity in her expression held the audience captive while the back vocals reached their peak, and Rhysand found himself captivated as well, unable to look away.

Her voice rose, reaching heights that seemed to touch the very stars, and as the orchestra swelled around her, Rhysand could feel the passion in every word she sang.

- I am the one thing in life I can control; I am inimitable, I am an original; I'm not falling behind or running late; I'm not standing still, I am lying in wait - He understood it as a way of saying how every city thrived and Velaris kept being a hidden city towards the other courts - Nightmare's face is an endless uphill climb; He has something to prove; He has nothing to lose; Nightmare's pace is relentless, he wastes no time; What is it like in his shoes?

Nightmare was one of the characters previously introduced in the show, representing the Hewn City and their politics of participating in every decision, especially by being the formal representation and the known image of the Night Court.

- Nightmare doesn't hesitate; He exhibits no restraint; He takes, and he takes, and he takes; And he keeps winning anyway; He changes the game; He plays and he raises the stakes; And if there's a reason he seems to thrive when so few survive; Then, goddammit, I'm willing to wait for it; I'm willing to wait for it - Her voice went to a soft breeze, tickling Rhysand's soul as she rose her voice again for the final chorus - Life doesn't discriminate; Between the sinners and the saints; It takes, and it takes, and it takes; We rise, and we fall; And if there's a reason I'm still alive; When so many have died; Then I'm willing to - Her eyes met his in the middle of the public, a sense of understanding passing through them, an unspoken love for their court and the child both of them unknowingly raised together. She was still looking him deep in his eyes as she smiled and repeated the final phrase - Wait for it.

The final verse carried an air of determination, of embracing the journey and whatever it may bring. As the last notes reverberated through the theater, the audience erupted in applause, their hearts touched by the lady's stirring performance. Rhysand glanced at Nyx, whose eyes shone with a mixture of awe and admiration.

- That was amazing, Papa! Did you like it? - Nyx asked, his voice brimming with excitement.

- Yes, my star, I loved it. And I'm glad you brought me here to experience it with you - Rhysand smiled, his heart full of love for his young son and the lady who had brought so much joy into their lives.

Amid the ending performance with a song that reunited all of the cast together, the lady glanced up and met Rhysand's intense stare once again, singing some of the parts to him, in that fleeting moment the music seemed to draw them closer, and when she smiled bright and big and bowed to him in the end, his heart skipped a beat.

The final notes of the fun goodbye to the cast proportionate filled the air as the audience erupted into thunderous applause again. Nyx's heart swelled with pride, knowing that his Papa, the High Lord of the Night Court, had enjoyed the mesmerizing magic of "Miss Starlight's" song, just as he had. He couldn't wait to introduce them properly. As the crew took their final bow and the curtain fell, Nyx tugged on his father's hand, his excitement evident in his wide, sparkling eyes.

- Papa, come on! Let's go meet her! - He exclaimed, practically bouncing with enthusiasm. Rhysand chuckled at his son's exuberance, happy to see him so thrilled.

- All right, lead the way, little star - He said, following Nyx as they made their way backstage.

Behind the curtain, the atmosphere buzzed with excitement as the crew congratulated the lady on her outstanding performance. Nyx's eyes searched for her, and when he finally spotted her amidst the commotion, he pulled his father towards her.

- Miss Starlight! - Nyx called out, his voice filled with adoration. The lady turned, her eyes lighting up when she saw Nyx approaching with Rhysand in tow. She smiled warmly, her gaze moving from Nyx to Rhysand.

- Hello there, both of you - She greeted them, her voice as sweet as a lullaby. Nyx beamed, proud to have his father by his side.

- This is my Papa, the High Lord Rhysand. Papa, this is Lady Starlight, High Lady of the musical theater - he said, introducing them with a touch of pride.

- It's a pleasure to meet you, My Lord - The lady said, offering a graceful curtsy - Nyx has spoken very highly of you. I couldn't wait to finally meet the father of my biggest fan - Rhysand couldn't help but feel a hint of curiosity as he looked at the lady before him.

- Likewise - He replied with a genuine smile - Your performance was extraordinary. I've never heard such a captivating voice. And please, call me Rhysand, or Rhys - Her cheeks flushed with a blush of delight, and she bowed her head slightly

- Thank you, Rhysand. I'm honored that you enjoyed it - Before Nyx could contain his excitement, he interjected.

- Papa, you should ask her out on a date! - He shouted to his father, jumping up and down in place as he looked at both of the people he loved the most in the world (not that he would ever admit it next to the rest of his family). Rhysand blinked, surprised by Nyx's candid suggestion. He exchanged a glance with the lady, and a soft smile played on her lips.

- Is that so? - He asked, humor dancing in his eyes. Nyx nodded enthusiastically.

- Yes! She's really nice, and I know you'll like her. And I really want to call her mommy. And I'll change my name to Nyxie Starlight, and we'll be a family - Rhysand couldn't help but chuckle at his son's matchmaking efforts. Nyx, in his characteristic innocence, suggested they should marry soon so that Rhysand could be Mister Starlight, Nyx's mind forever intertwining her character's name with her true identity.

- Well, if it's alright with you, Miss Starlight, I'd love to take you out for a date - The lady's smile grew, her eyes shining with amusement.

- I'd be delighted, Rhys - The blush that covered her cheeks made Rhysand's heart flutter in a way he hadn't felt, even when he was with Feyre.

Nyx reveled in having both his beloved daddy and his adored Starlight in his life, and Rhysand found solace and bliss in a love he thought he would never experience again.

As they exchanged information and chose a day and place, Nyx couldn't contain his excitement, thrilled that his plan had worked. He knew that this lady had brought so much joy into his life, and he wanted nothing more than to see his Papa happy as well.

As they bid their farewells and left the theater, Rhysand felt a sense of warmth in his heart, grateful for the magical night he had shared with his son and the enchanting lady they now knew as "Miss Mommy Starlight." And as they looked up at the starlit sky above the Night Court, Rhysand knew that the adventure they had embarked upon was just beginning, an adventure filled with love, music, and the serendipitous magic of young hearts.

They embraced the magic of their fate, as their lives intertwined like a dance, creating a tale of love that would be whispered through the ages in the immortal lands of Prythian as the most magically musical love story that ever ran through history. Or the most disgustingly cute, as Nyx would proclaim, and they wouldn't have it any other way.

Ooooh for the Bingo, fluffy and angsty Forbidden Love with Eris??? 🥰🙏🏻🔥

HIHIHIHIHI

Never thought I would be so excited to write for Eris oh my

THIS IS GOOOOOOOOOOD

I'm just so excited for this one, it's one of the biggest until now 💢💥✨️

I don't know if it's angsty enough, it probably isn't but I can't do better than that right now sorry 😀

Let me have you guys know that I love the IC and I don't hate them, okay? It's just for the character (although I don't agree with some of their attitudes, but hey criticize any type of politics is kind of my job so meh)

The Night We Met

Almost one year before

The Hewn City bustled with activity as the sun began its descent, casting a warm golden glow over the mountain, the few windows letting the sun pass to the cobblestones of the city carved inside the terrain. Amidst the hustle and bustle of the preparation for the monthly party, you were weaving your way through the crowds, your heart pounding with a mix of excitement and trepidation. You were determined to escape the clutches of your overbearing sister and cousin, who were determined to whisk you away to Velaris, the vibrant city where they resided.

You loved your family, every tiny bit of them, but you hated the way they tried to make you hate your birthplace. The Court of Nightmares only had the reputation and, even if some of the stories were true and the cruelty indeed reigned inside of its walls, you firmly believed it was a necessary action to take against the rest of the cruel world outside. Even Rhys had to agree if he so desperately sought the help of his fellow citizens. You were a dreamer that wanted to live between the nightmares.

Breathless and desperate, you found yourself seeking solace in a secluded corner of an elegant garden. One of the few that were built closer to the top of the mountain, a simple spell and glass covered every part of it, making visible the night outside. The beauty of your home could never be replaced by the so-called "Court of Dreams". Tears glistened in your eyes as you let your emotions overwhelm you. It was at this very moment that you encountered a figure you never expected to see in real life – Eris, the prince of the Autumn Court.

Eris was notorious in your family for a past failed engagement with your older sister, Morrigan. The tension between him and your cousin, Rhysand, was palpable. You should be running away by now, knowing that Rhys and his mate, Feyre, prohibited you from participating in the parties Eris was involved in. Yet, as you locked eyes, you noticed a gentleness and concern that shattered your preconceived notions.

- Are you alright? You seem distressed - he inquired, his eyes filled with genuine worry. Eris approached you cautiously, his voice carrying a soothing tone.

- Yes, thank you. I was just trying to run away from my family - You pushed a strain of hair behind your ear, the blond locks always too alike to your sister's hair.

- I might know a little bit about that too, want company? - He asked slowly, not taking any step closer to you. If he had any idea of who you were he didn't show it.

- I might want, yes - You motioned for him to sit at your side in one of the many benches around the garden.

A surge of emotions overwhelmed you as you found yourself pouring your heart out to Eris. You both talked and laughed, sharing stories and dreams as the moon rose high in the sky. To say the least, you were amazed by how comfortable you felt in Eris' presence, your connection deepening with every passing moment.

Present days

A year had passed since that fateful encounter in the garden. You and Eris had spent countless hours together, growing closer with each passing day. Your love for each other blossomed, defying the animosity that surrounded you. One evening, you strolled hand in hand through a meadow in the Autumn Court, the same place where you usually met each other to not raise any suspicion in your court. Eris paused and turned to face you, taking in the green dress you were wearing. His eyes held a mixture of adoration and nervousness.

- I cannot bear to be without you any longer, my days are consumed by the thought of you, and my dreams are filled with your presence. I love you during my waking hours and imagine you during my slumber ones. Will you marry me? - He asked, his voice filled with hope. Overwhelmed with joy, you nodded vigorously.

-Yes, Eris! I will marry you - You replied, voice brimming with excitement. You threw yourself into his arms, kissing him with every emotion you held in your body. Happiness overlaps joy as he spins you around, creating that bubble you both always felt when you were together.

The first challenge was Eris' father. Knowing damn well your father would be confused but happier than ever for finally getting the hold of the Autumn he always dreamed about. On the other hand, High Lord Beron was a complete mystery. The grand halls of the Autumn Court's palace were adorned with lavish decorations, befitting the grandeur of the occasion. The atmosphere crackled with anticipation as Eris, accompanied by you on his right side, made his way towards the throne room where Beron, the High Lord, awaited.

As you approached the entrance, Eris squeezed your hand, offering reassurance and support. You offered the same, your knowledge of his personal life and the terror his father caused him during his childhood made you as nervous for him as you were for yourself. You exchanged a brief, loving glance, drawing strength from your connection before stepping into the throne room.

The room was bathed in warm, golden light, emanating from the ornate chandeliers that hung from the ceiling. At the end of the room, seated upon a magnificent throne adorned with autumnal motifs, sat Beron, his regal presence commanding attention. His eyes, stern and piercing, hardened upon seeing his son and you. He took in your blond hair, noticing all the similarities between you and your sister.

- Eris, my son - Beron called out, his voice echoing through the hall - Approach, both of you.

Eris led you forward, your steps purposeful yet tinged with nervous anticipation. You stood before Beron, your hands still intertwined, a symbol of unwavering commitment to one another. Beron's gaze shifted between Eris and you, his expression thoughtful as he studied your position at his son's side. The silence stretched, creating a palpable tension that seemed to hang in the air.

- Eris, son of mine, it is often that a request for marriage to my sons comes before me. What is uncommon is my son requesting a marriage. Especially you. Speak your intentions - Finally, Beron spoke, his voice steady and resonant. Eris straightened his posture, determination gleaming in his eyes.

- Father, I stand before you today, with the woman I chose to marry. She has brought vision into my life, a feeling to covet that surpasses any kind of feeling I ever sought. I wish to marry her, to join our powers and lives for eternity - You slowly nodded towards him - Also, to join the Autumn and the Night Court in a long-time union. As you wished from the beginning, Father - Beron's gaze shifted to you, his scrutiny weighing upon her.

- And what of you, young lady? Do you share these intentions? How do you offer a partnership to the Night?

- High Lord Beron, I plan to praise and obey your son with all my heart and I desire nothing more than to become his wife. I promise to honor and cherish him, to stand by his side through all challenges that may come - With a steady voice you responded, your eyes locked with Beron's - I am the second daughter of Keir, commander of the Hewn City and General of its army.

- You are Morrigan's sister? - He asked you slowly, seeing Eris let go of your hand to let you give a step closer to the throne, this moment being practiced between you and your mother a thousand times. You just nodded and waited - If she is the Truth Teller, how do they call you in your territory?

- Truth Unleasher, sir - The High Lord smiled, playing with one of the decorations in his seat.

- I believe that no one hid from you the story both of our families share, right? - His eyes hovering all over your figure made you shift uncomfortably in your spot - Do your sister and cousin know you are here?

- Sir, I would let you know that I'm very aware of Eris' past with my family, but I found myself in a hard position once we started talking and realized how good of a match we are since we seek the same objectives of power and wealth - The lies roll down your tongue, in truth, Eris told you the whole story he had with Morrigan and your power told you everything you needed to know about his sincerity. But Beron didn't need to know this part - Although my sister and the High Lord are my family and, right now, my sovereigns, they are not aware of my position, since none of them have I say in my marriage life. This is only a matter for me and my father to talk about. And, obviously, my husband and you, sir, if you grant us your blessing.

Beron leaned back in on his throne, his eyes glimmering with a mix of curiosity and contemplation as you bowed down to him.

- Love, as I have come to learn with those ridiculous rulers of Night, is a powerful force. It can mend what is broken and forge unbreakable bonds, that's what your adorable cousin likes to say, am I wrong? - You shook your head, earning a small hum from him - Eris, you have always been headstrong, and it seems you have found your match in this young woman - He paused, his gaze shifting to you once again - As for you, Truth Unleasher, you has earned the respect of my son, a feat not easily accomplished. Your resolve and devotion are commendable. I can tell you are far more polite and respectful than your failed attempt of a sister, she is definitely the worst wife this world has yet to face - He laughed a little, enjoying even more as you and Eris smiled too. Two (or three) could play this game if he wanted to. A flicker of a smile graced Beron's lips, barely perceptible - I grant my blessing for this union. May your love endure, and may your union bring strength and prosperity to both the Autumn Court and the Nightmare's family.

Relief and joy washed over Eris and you as Beron'sords echoed in the grand hall. You exchanged glances, eyes shining with a gratitude Beron couldn't see.

- Thank you, my High Lord - Eris expressed, his voice filled with a hint of genuine gratitude - Your blessing means the world to us - Beron nodded, a rare hint of warmth in his eyes.

- You may have my blessing, but remember, the path you tread will not be easy, shall you think of hiding it from your family for any longer, young girl - He showed his teeth in a shivering smile, delighting himself in the victory he sought during his whole life - When you both decide to tell Keir about the news, tell him to send me a letter and give a day and time for a family dinner, the first of many.

With those final words of pure command, Beron rose from his throne, signifying the conclusion of the audience. Eris and you bowed deeply and respectfully before the High Lord, hearts filled with hope and determination.

As you left the throne room hand in hand, the weight of Beron's blessing enveloped you, empowering your love and fortifying your resolve. Your happiness was soon put to the test again when you approached your father's study, now seeking his blessing.

In the serene surroundings of a private study within your ancestral home, Keir sat at a polished wooden desk, his expression contemplative. He had received word that his beloved child had found love in the arms of Eris, the prince of the Autumn Court. His mind traveled back and forth with different scenarios of how the fire princeling may have met his second daughter, knowing of the rule prohibiting their encounter.

As the door to the study creaked open, Keir looked up to find his youngest entering, accompanied by Eris. The determination they held between them was evident in the way their eyes sought each other, even in the presence of the commander of the Nightmare Court.

- Father - you spoke before bowing down in respect to your parents, your voice filled with both nervousness and hope - May we speak with you?

Keir regarded his child and her chosen partner, his eyes filled with a mix of curiosity and concern. He gestured for them to take a seat across from him, indicating that he was willing to hear them out. Eris spoke first, his voice sincere and earnest.

- Keir, I come before you today as a man who holds a deep respect for your daughter. Our paths have become entwined, and I wish to ask for your blessing to marry her - Keir leaned back in his chair, his gaze shifting between Eris and you. His features changed, revealing a complex mixture of emotions.

- Listen here, young prince, I know the history between our families has been tumultuous, my failed attempt to match you with my oldest daughter hunts me until these days. I'm curious how you found yourself in the position of asking for my other daughter's hand - For a second you feared your father could say no - But I also see the potential of getting the accord we wrote many centuries ago finally become reality. You didn't ask for her dote, didn't ask for anything at all. You came here only with the idea of prosperity and respect, and probably her submission to you. I don't have anything against it, I only hope you can keep it going for a better goal in your marriage - He turned his attention to you, your eyes meeting in a moment of unspoken understanding. You were doing this for your family too. Pride washed over him at your sacrifice - And you, my child. Your happiness and well-being were never my foremost concern, but if you believe that Eris is the one who can provide that happiness, I will not stand in your way, especially if it means many gains for our family.

- Father, Eris has shown me a future like no other. He sees me for who I truly am and accepts me without reservation. I have found a feeling that surpasses all boundaries. I want nothing more than to spend the rest of my life by his side - Your eyes shimmered with unshed tears as you spoke with conviction - I know Mor didn't bring you the results you may have wanted, but I want nothing more than your approval - Keir took a deep breath, his voice laced with both pride and a touch of fear.

- My child, your words resonate deeply within me. It is clear that you have found a match that knows no bounds. I give you my blessing, for I trust your judgment and desire only the best for our courts - A weight seemed to lift from the room as Keir's words sank in. You and Eris exchanged a glance filled with gratitude and joy, your hearts overflowing with unspoken love.

- Thank you, Father - You whispered, voice filled with genuine appreciation. - Your acceptance means the world to us - You repeated the same words Eris had said to his father. Keir nodded, a proud smile tugging at the corners of his lips.

- Remember, child, that marriage requires effort and sacrifice from you. Cherish what you have found, and may your union bring you endless gains and fulfillment.

With those final words, Keir rose from his seat, signifying the conclusion of their conversation. You and Eris stood, making your way to the door. As you left the study, hand in hand, you felt a sense of profound happiness. With Keir's support and blessing, your love had gained an added strength, solidifying your commitment and fueling your determination to build a future together.

However, your private conversation had not gone unnoticed. Your sister, Morrigan, and cousin, Rhysand, had overheard the discussion. Consumed by anger and a sense of entitlement, they confronted both you and Eris, determined to sabotage your happiness. Morrigan and Rhysand cornered you and Eris the second you stepped out of the room. Their faces twisted with anger and resentment. Rhysand lashed out, striking Eris with a blow intended to hurt both physically and emotionally.

- How dare you come to my Court again and try to steal one of my cousins again? - Rhys says, trapping Eris against the wall with his dark power, the light flickering around you as the air seems to grow thicker.

- Rhys! Stop, please! - You screamed against deaf ears, your cousin's furious state of mind.

- You couldn't have me and now you went for my sister?! What have you done to her? - Morrigan questions as she pulls you away from both of the males.

- I told you both to stop! - Overcome with fury you tapped into your hidden powers, holding your family members in place as you made your way to Eris, now thrown to the floor as Rhysand released him from his powers. Your voice trembled with righteous anger as you confronted your family - How dare you? My love and life are not yours to control! Eris has shown me kindness and understanding, unlike any of you. I will marry him, and no one will stand in our way! - Morrigan, taken aback by her sister's outburst, tried to reason with you.

- You're making a mistake. Eris cannot be trusted. You must think about your future and your family's reputation - She pleaded, her voice tinged with desperation - You can have a life in Velaris and find a decent male there - You snickered at her words. With tears streaming down your face you looked deep into Morrigan's eyes.

- You have always put your desires above mine, sister. Perhaps it's time you realize that my happiness matters too. Eris loves me, and I love him. That is all that matters - She started to deny it with her head, but you were done with her behavior - When will any of you understand I will never live in Velaris? I love my court and I learned to love Eris' too. Why can't you understand that I am capable of making decisions by myself?

- You just want our family's approval. This marriage is not what you truly want - She pleaded one more time, despair seemed to travel to her as Eris recovered each second.

- You don't even know what I want, you never cared to ask - She denied it many times but you knew the truth. Deep down, your sister always hoped for your outburst to take you away, but it never happened - What if our parent's approval is exactly what I want? Is that so bad?

- You'll be forever trapped in this life - Rhysand said slowly, trying to release himself from your powers - You won't get a chance to dream.

- What if that's my dream? What if everything I ever wanted was a big marriage with someone I love? What if I always dreamed of a house full of kids and me being the perfect lady by my husband's side? Is that so bad? Just because my dreams are different from yours does it mean they are invalid? - You shook your head in disbelief, knowing very well they would never accept this - Maybe one day you guys from the Court of Dreams will finally learn that we can dream from anywhere we want, not just from your pathetic city - In the end, Eris winnowed both of you back to the Autumn Court.

In the aftermath of the confrontation, you and Eris retreated to the safety of his palace, finding solace in each other's arms. Eris gently cradled your face in his hands, his eyes filled with tenderness. Your heart clenched as the hurtful words you said to your sister finally took in, a bit of regret finding your mind.

- You are my strength and my salvation, my true matching flame. We will face this together - You could only find the strength to nod, feeling a light kiss being left in your head as both of you tried to find a way to sleep and rest after the agitation.

Your love story would continue, with kisses that tasted of passion and embraces that melted your souls. In Eris, you had found a partner who loved you unconditionally, supporting you in your journey of self-discovery. In Eris' arms, you had found your true home, a place where your love would flourish, unaffected by the judgment of others. And as you basked in the warmth of your shared affection, you knew that your love story was just beginning.

training w/ cassian? and cassian accidentally hurts the reader?

LOOKS WHO IS BACK (im truth I never went away, the thing is, I'm trying to write smut for Azriel AND I SIMPLY CAN'T WRITE SMUT IT DOESN'T WORK MY MIND DOESN'T WORK ANYTHING WORKS, so I'll just make this one for cassie baby and figure azriel story later)

My first one for this bat boy, and now the trio is officially complete in my blog, thank you all

I have two more to publish already, THE biggest I wrote till now

ENJOY

Trigger Warnings: mentions of misogyny, trauma and violence

Scars

The training area of the House of the Wind was spacious, equipped with various training dummies, weapons, and mats for sparring. Cassian had offered some weeks ago to train with you to help you build skills and confidence in self-defense. Since the first time he noticed how much of a scared animal you looked every time a male approached you too fast. He was actually the one who alerted his brothers of your uneasiness and told them to be more gentle around you.

You felt deeply thankful for his help, sometimes even sharing with him your past experiences with your almost-husband back in the Autumn Court. He looked mad every time and even offered to kill the male for you, and every time you said that destiny was going to take care of that male. Of course, destiny had a name and was the General of the Night Court but still. The news of your past lover's death hitted you with a strange sensation of relief and safety. Along with a bit of joy qhen you noticed the biggest smile you ever saw on Cassian's face the next day.

Now you stood facing each other, each wearing practice swords and wearing light training armor after finally finishing the endless warm up.

- Alright, let's finally start with some basic swordplay today. Remember, the key is not just strength, but also agility and strategy. Remember every tip, every position and the right way to hold the weapon. A sword is never dangerous enough if not used in the correct way - Cassian said with a grin as you nodded, a determined expression on your face.

You quickly began circling each other, and Cassian threw a few light swings on your way, testing your reflexes. You blocked them with ease, gaining more confidence with each successful parry.

- You're doing great, keep doing this way - Cassian encouraged - Now, try to counter-attack after you block my strikes.

As you continued the practice, you focused intently, feeling a growing sense of accomplishment with each successful move and praise from your trainer. Your past experiences had left you feeling vulnerable all the time, a cloud of fear passing over your head all day, thundering when a male would approach. But with Cassian's guidance, you were slowly reclaiming your sense of power and autonomy.

Cassian was honestly impressed by your progress. You are a quick learner and showed natural talent with each passing day. He could see the determination in your eyes, and it reminded him of himself when he was a child first learning to fight in those old camps. After a few more minutes of practice, Cassian suggested moving on to fast sparring instead of sword fighting, just to call it an end for the day's training.

- This will help you apply what you've learned in a more dynamic setting - He explained quickly.

You set aside the practice swords and began a controlled sparring session, trying to tag each other without using full force. Cassian observed your movements, offering occasional pointers or praises for your efforts. As you sparred, you seemed to become more immersed in the training, the adrenaline pumping through your veins. For a moment, the memories of the past started to fade away, replaced by the thrill of the present moment.

Then, during a moment of distraction, you left your right side open, and Cassian took advantage of the opportunity. He aimed a gentle, playful punch at your head, but it landed a bit harder than he intended, jostling you slightly.

Your hand flew to your head instinctively, and though the punch didn't cause any real pain, it was enough to trigger something buried deep inside you. The memories of past humiliations and the feeling of being powerless came flooding back, overwhelming you.

Suddenly, you dropped the attack position and clutched your head settling down on the ground as your breath began to quicken when the panic set in. Cassian immediately stopped, concern etched on his face. Your name dropped out his mouth but you couldn't listen, even if your body stayed there, your mind was very far away.

A flood of emotions engulfed you, and your mind became a battleground of memories you had long tried to suppress. The punch had inadvertently brought back vivid recollections of the time you spent in the Autumn Court, where you were born and raised. It was a place filled with cruelty, disrespect, and humiliation towards a good part of their females. In that moment of vulnerability, the echoes of past insults and belittling comments resurfaced. You remembered being disrespected and devalued, your worth reduced to nothing more than an object of amusement for others. The memories of invasive male attention, the objectification, and the constant feeling of powerlessness were overwhelming.

You felt trapped in a sea of emotions, unable to escape the suffocating weight of your past. You were paralyzed by the fear that you could still be the helpless, broken person you once was. In those moments, you felt the walls around your heart closing in, as if you were back in that dark place you fought so hard to escape. The emotions were raw, and you struggled to differentiate between the past and the present.

Amidst the chaos within, Cassian's voice reached your ears, gentle and reassuring. He was kneeling beside you, his concerned eyes offering you a way out of that nightmare.

- Hey, hey, it's okay - He said, the same way he's been repeating all the time, his voice soothing - I'm so sorry, I didn't mean to hurt you. Take deep breaths, you're safe here. I'm sorry - His words were like a guiding light, slowly pulling you back from the abyss.

You took shuddering breaths, trying to focus on the reality of the training area, on Cassian's presence, and on the fact that you were still safe in the House of the Wind. His words were soothing, but it took a few moments for you to regain control of your emotions. You looked up at him, tears forming in your eyes.

- I'm so sorry - You said while trying to dry the tears you didn't even feel them going down your face. Ashamed with the way you reacted you bent down your head, looking at the training floor.

- You have nothing to apologize for - Cassian said, his voice tender - I never should have thrown that punch, even playfully. I should have been more careful. I'm really sorry if i hurted you.

Even if you knew intellectually that it wasn't his fault, you couldn't help but feel guilty for your own reaction. You were frustrated with yourself for being so affected by the past, for letting it creep into the present and ruin such a good moment you were living. As you calmed down, wiping away the tears, you managed a faint reassuring smile.

- No, it's not your fault, it didn't hurt at all. It just brought back some bad memories from the past - You took a few more deep breaths, trying to steady yourself.

- I should have been more sensitive, then. I'm really sorry for triggering those memories - Cassian's expression softened with understanding.

As he sees you're recovering from the panic attack, he feels a wave of relief wash over him. He hates that he caused you pain, even if it was unintentional. He sits beside you, his concern etched on his face.

- I'm so sorry, I would never hurt you deliberately - he says earnestly when you finally look at him, your eyes still slightly teary but filled with understanding.

- I know you didn't mean to hurt me - You replied, managing a small smile - And thank you for calming me down and being there for me. It means a lot.

- You don't need to thank me. I care about you deeply, and I hate to see you in pain. You're such a strong and remarkable person, and I can't help but admire you for who you are - He takes your hand gently on his own, feeling its coldness he quickly wraps his other hand to heat it.

- Why would you say such things? - Your cheeks blush a soft pink as you look away, trying to process his words - I'm just a regular person, Cassian. Nyx's babysitter after all. Nothing special.

- No, you are so much more than that - Cassian shakes his head, determination in his eyes - You have a heart of gold, and your courage and resilience are truly inspiring. I see the way you handle Nyx, and it's clear how much he adores you - His eyes were so full of love that you couldn't think of a way to react - And, on top of all that, you are stunningly beautiful - You were taken aback by his compliments, not used to receiving such genuine praise.

- I-I don't know what to say - You stammer, feeling both flattered and embarrassed - But thank you for being here and helping me through it. You're really kind, Cassian.

- Of course, I'll always be here for you - He placed a comforting hand on your shoulder, still holding you with his other one - And I meant what I said earlier. You're strong, brave, and incredibly talented. Don't let those bad memories hold you back. You deserve to live your life to the fullest - Though you appreciated his words, you still struggled with the lingering vulnerability and self-doubt.

- I'll try my best. And I do want to keep training if you were wondering - You joke and start to get up helping him too as you both face each other again.

- I'm glad to hear that. We'll take it at your pace, and I promise to be more mindful from now on - Cassian smiled warmly, but his smile quickly dropped as he stopped to think, concern making itself noticeable on his expression.

- What happened? Is something wrong? - You asked, genuine care carrying your voice.

- Nothing, I just… - He takes a step closer to you, his height towering over your figure. He made a move to higher up his hand, waiting for your reaction. Noticing his move you inched your face closer, giving permission for him to touch you and speak his mind - Look, I don't want to put pressure on you, and I certainly didn't plan to say this now, but I can't keep it inside anymore. I love you, not just because of what you've been through, but for who you are. I wanted to tell you earlier, but I was afraid of triggering painful memories on you if I went too step forward - You pause for a moment, taking in his confession. Then, a genuine smile graces your lips.

- You really mean that? - You ask excitedly, joy filling every part of your heart now.

- Every word - Cassian replies, his voice steady and certain. Your smile widens, and you feel more at ease than you have in weeks.

- Well then, I have to say that I care about you too, Cassian. Your strength, your humor and your kindness, they all make you an incredible person - He can hardly believe his ears, and a radiant smile spreads across his face.

- So, you forgive me for my blunder earlier? - Cassian asked with a funny expression on his face, finally holding you with both hands, securing your body against his. A reminder that, if you fell, he would always be there to catch you.

- I do, but only if you agree to go on a date with me - You chuckle, giving his hand a playful squeeze. Cassian grins, his heart soaring with happiness.

- Anytime you want, sweetheart. It's a deal. I promise to be on my best behavior - As you felt a tingly sensation on your neck you know he really meant it, a promise marking your skin for as long as he decides to stay with you.

You both share a laugh, and as you decide to leave the training area together, Cassian can't help but feel grateful for Nyx's presence in their lives, for it brought him closer to someone he now knew he couldn't bear to lose. And in that moment, both of you realized that even in the darkest of times, love and understanding can find their way to heal the deepest wounds and create something beautiful from the ashes of the past.

As you walk together to your rooms, ready to take a shower and continue the day, you sort of feel a newfound sense of hope. While the memories from your past may not disappear overnight, you knew she could face them with Cassian by your side. Together, you would rewrite your story, creating a future that was stronger and brighter than your painful past.

You realized that you weren't alone anymore, that Cassian genuinely cared for your well-being. He had become more than just a training partner or the cute uncle from the kid you babysit; he was a friend and a support system you didn't know you needed. And maybe, in a closer future, even more than you ever thought you could have.

🌸 If you get this, answer with 3 random facts about yourself and send it to the last 7 blogs in your notifications, anonymously or not! Let's get to know the person behind the blog. 🌸

This is fun

1. I probably already participated in every existent area of entertainment, from acting, to music, dance, gymnastics and now writing

2. I learned English only with netflix since my family was going through a rough time (financially speaking) and that was my only source of learning

3. I jumped a year in school; technically I just started school too young and should've repeated a year to match with my other classmates, but my mom fought everyone in the school to keep me in the grade I was and now I'm always the youngest in every class

Hey could you pls do the nightmare trope with azriel where the reader has a very bad nightmare in which she sees azriel nearly dead and when she wakes up and finds him she can't believe it's him and he manages to help her ? ☺️🤔

I certainly can! 😉😉

Oh my, thank you very much for directing me on this one, my biggest fear is writing something people wouldn't like since I usually get carried away in the story and write whatever comes to mind first

Hope you enjoy this!!

I know I said I wouldn't do more than one fic for each trope right now but whatever I like this one better 😡

Until It Happens To You

The night was restless as if the shadows themselves whispered secrets that their master shouldn't hear. You felt burdened by a foreboding unease, your mind shifted between the deep slumber and the real world. You didn't feel Azriel's body beside yours in the bed, his side turning cold at each passing moment he was away. You were sure he slept at your side this night, just as the many others he said your presence made it easier for him to finish his work and finally get some rest.

This strange arrangement between the two of you started a few months ago, you with your throat dry and in need of water and him with a pile of work, he didn't finish during the day. You were so deep into your sleep that somehow you managed to invite him to your room and tell him he could do it in your bed since "two work better than one". You were obviously asleep when he found himself at your side, but he remained there anyway and assured you the next morning that it worked, in a strange way. After some days, some times you actually helped him, he distracted himself by your calm aura and slept in your bed.

That's how everything started and, on his restless nights, he found comfort at your side, both of you holding your peace together as the dream world caught you both at night.

Anyway, you imagined he went back to his room, as he did so many nights before, it wasn't weird at all. Yet, you couldn't get back to sleep as the silence filled the house, almost as if it was mourning something. Your eyes started to close again only to open by a haunting scream that seemed to transcend the walls of the whole house, filling every corner with terror.

In this nightmarish scenario, you found yourself standing in the middle of the room, what before was a bright and colorful place became a desolate chamber shrouded in darkness. The air was heavy with a cold, forming an oppressive atmosphere. Dimly lit torches flickered around you, torches you didn't remember you lighted. They kept casting eerie shadows that danced along the walls, mocking you with their macabre movements, almost as if they were laughing at your lack of knowledge.

As your eyes adjusted to the gloom, you noticed the open door, more torches lighting your way to the corridor, and the stones covering the walls, dirty with a thin layer of blood that started on your door and kept going downstairs. You checked your own body to make sure, finding nothing but heartache, a feeling that your heart was being ripped out of you.

You followed the path that led you to the living room, the blood forming a thicker layer with each step you took closer. The sight you found wasn't any better, close to the balcony doors, in a position that looked like the person was trying to run away, you spotted a figure lying motionless on the cold stone floor. The wings were shredded to pieces, and blood covered their clothes, forming a pool on the sides.

Your heart skipped a beat as recognition dawned upon you, making your knees tremble as you took in the image forming in front of your eyes. It was Azriel, the one whose love and presence had become the foundation of your existence. Panic surged through your veins, and your voice choked with fear when you screamed for help, but it seemed like no one was in the house besides the both of you.

-Azriel! No, please, wake up! - You uselessly screamed as you ran close to his body, feeling that your heart could explode at any moment with the pain you felt.

With trembling hands, you rushed towards him, your footsteps echoing ominously through the chamber. Kneeling by his side, you desperately shook him, but he remained unresponsive. His usually tanned and alluring features were now pale and lifeless, and his eyes closed in an eternal slumber. Suddenly you understood the pain you were feeling. The mating bond. The realization kills you even more.

Tears streamed down your face as you cradled his motionless form, hugging his cold body the way you could, hoping for any form of life to come out of him. Your voice became a desperate plea as you kept talking to him, even if you knew he wouldn't answer.

-No, this can't be happening! Azriel, please! Wake up! - Your anguished cries reverberated off the walls, fading into the oppressive darkness.

Yet, despite your desperate attempts, your touch suddenly met no resistance. It seemed to pass through his form as if he were nothing but a specter. His body started to disappear in thin air, the despair seemed to taunt you, amplifying your pain and the sense of loss.

As this nightmare tightened its grip on you, the chamber distorted and morphed, becoming a labyrinth of pain and suffering. The walls closed in, constricting your movements, suffocating you with an overwhelming sense of hopelessness. You fought against the suffocating atmosphere, gasping for air, your voice a mere whimper as you tried to grasp Azriel's disappearing form.

- Please...don't leave me… I love you. I've been in love for a long time now and you can't leave me here… my mate - Your last words were whispered against the nothing.

When Feyre told you about the day she almost lost Rhysand she told you about the painful sensation of getting her heart broken. And you were there when she need it most while she remembered the situation, but you weren't the one falling off that deep end of silence and cold of a once cheerful and bright string that connected their souls. You understood her now.

You once had a friend that lost somebody close, and you were also there when they needed it most, but you would never be the one having trouble sleeping once the night came and you felt like you didn't do enough. But you understood them now.

You can say you're sorry a million times to Azriel's body laying on the floor. But even if you try hard, he won't come back. The same way you tried to sympathize with your friends, it was helpless, you wouldn't be the one picking up the pieces left of your heart. Now you were. And you felt helpless anyway.

Somebody loses somebody every day, but you'll never really know what it's like till you wake up to some really bad news and the worst scenario you could ever find. You'll never really know how it feels until it happens to you.

You looked around the room, the blood covering everything only made the pain worse. You looked outside, trying to find a starry night, instead, you only found a creature looking back at you, its teeth covered in your mate's blood when the thing seemed to smile at your figure. You only waited for the creature to break the windows and devour you completely, but as it came closer you only felt the wind meeting your skin as the thing breathed against your hair. It was inside the house the whole time, only waiting for you to mourn Azriel's body and relish its work before doing the same to you.

Just as the darkness threatened to consume you entirely, your body jolted awake, every piece of skin drenched in a cold sweat. The nightmare had released its grip on you, but your heart still raced with lingering dread. Trembling, you looked around the room, desperately seeking solace in the comforting embrace of reality. The colors and brightness of your bedroom make itself known as you take in the world around you. The small sounds of night filled you in, the solitude leaving your body.

And then you saw him - Azriel - sitting at the edge of the bed, concern etched across his face. His presence felt surreal as if the boundaries between the nightmare and reality had blurred. Tears of relief welled up in your eyes as you reached out to touch him, fear covering your movements as uncertainty filled you.

- Azriel...is it really you? - Your voice was trembling with disbelief as your hand finally made its way toward his face. Azriel's eyes softened with compassion as he gently took your trembling hand in his, his scars making everything fall into place. The reality and the mating bond.

- Yes, it's me. You had a terrible nightmare, but you're safe now - His voice was raw, he was probably trying to wake you up for some time now. Overwhelmed by emotions, you throw yourself into his waiting arms, holding onto him as if he was your lifeline.

- I thought...I thought I lost you - You whispered, voice quivering with a mixture of fear and relief. Azriel held you tightly, his touch a soothing balm to your shattered emotions.

- I'm here now, and I'm not going anywhere. Do you want me to stay here a little longer? - At that moment, the nightmare's grip loosened completely, replaced by a newfound strength and resilience.

- I need to tell you something - His eyes widened a bit, and his breathing became uneasy. You realized he felt the tug you gave into that bond between you two - It was horrible to feel this being shredded to pieces as you died in my arms, I couldn't do anything while you disappeared right in front of my eyes.

- I'm here now, I'm fine - He kissed your head and pulled you closer - I woke up when I heard your scream. You were calling my name - He smothered his hand on your arms, warming you with his presence - When I got here you weren't screaming, but I could still hear your voice. I probably heard from…

- The mating bond - You finished the phrase for him, just seeing him nodding - Why didn't you sleep here tonight?

- If I spent one more night at your side without having you being mine completely I would go crazy - He put you to lay down on the bed, quickly getting under the covers with you - I thought I should put some space between us or I would hold you in my arms and never let you go.

- I wouldn't be opposed to this, you know - You said in a whisper, seeing the smile that planted his face as he went closer and closer to you, holding you impossibly near his naked torso, enough heat irradiated from him to warm both of you. His presence became your anchor, his love a guiding light through the darkest of nights - What do we do now?

- Now we sleep, I don't go to train tomorrow so we can talk and figure out how we gonna work this out - His hand traveled to your face, tilting your head up to look him in the eyes - I want you to have in mind that I won't rush you in any way, but I love you and I want this between us. I want you to love me too.

- I already do. I always did - You whispered as you went closer and closer, slowly ending the gap between both of you as you kissed his lips lightly, just a taste of the near future you both could have - I want everything with you, and I don't want to wait. Just to remember the sensation of losing you without getting to live anything makes me anxious.

- It's okay now. I promise I won't leave your side - He wrapped one wing around you, providing a safe space for you both - Get some sleep now, when the sun rises we can talk - He granted one last kiss on the lips before you closed your eyes and hugged him tight.

You stayed entwined in each other's arms, finding solace in the warmth of your embrace. The nightmare may have left scars, but also a sensation of longing for the bond that you would have to fulfill for the rest of your life. The scars would heal with time and you would both find solace in the unbreakable bond you shared.

Hi! For bingo: nightmare with Helion, fluff

Ladies and gentlemen, here I state: I am a monster

Yes, you asked me fluff, I did it, but with A MAJOR ANGST

IM SO SORRY 😭😭😭😭😭 if you want me to do it again without the triggers ask please, I just got carried away with this

For some ideia: this one has trigger warning, oh yeah, we are THAT bad

It's a bit shorter than the other ones too, but meh that's all I can get sorry

I think I'm still deep into the pregnancy trope, apologies

Trigger warning: miscarriage, nightmare, self hate thoughts, Helion being supportive king (it's not a trigger tho)

Baby Mine

You remember the scene perfectly. You heard the motion in the room, smelled the blood, and saw the red covering a good part of the sheets. You heard Helion's scream for help, saw the healers entering the room, and then everything felt empty, you even distinguished Lucien's face in the middle of the fuss. Helion was silently crying at the side of the bed, holding your hand and praying. For you, you realized.

But you were numb.

You didn't feel pain, you actually felt cold. You remember asking for someone to close the windows. But they were closed, weren't they? Day Court was supposed to be hot at that time of the year.

You felt wetness, but where was it coming from? Was it raining outside? No, it wasn't the rainy season. What was happening? Why did you feel so numb, so sad, so empty?

It took you more than a week to get rid of the fever, the infection almost killed that time. It hasn't killed you, but it definitely killed a part of you. Every part of that day and of all the ones that followed was a mess inside of your mind. When you first woke up and finally realized what happened you refused to sleep for five days in a row. You knew the nightmares were going to follow you everywhere you went. When Helion cried so much one day and begged you to sleep you knew what was coming for you that night.

Blood, screams, wetness, cold, cries, prayers, emptiness.

The same process happened over and over again for the next year, each time less and less. Somehow you felt like you needed those nightmares, it was a reminder that you indeed had a pregnancy, you had a child. It didn't matter if the baby came out too soon. It was yours, it was your baby.

Sometimes you just want to forget. Want to forgive yourself for not being enough to hold the baby inside your belly. Want to forget the pain it felt afterward. Want to forget Helion's sorrows and Lucien's pained face when he realized what had happened.

Sometimes you think you deserved it.

Sometimes you think no one deserves this pain.

It stopped after some time, months of talking with your mate until you could finally find peace of mind and keep going with your life. You both made a little grave for the unborn baby. It didn't have a name yet, or a face, or anything at all, being out too early in the pregnancy. And yet, you loved it with everything part of your being. It had been ripped out of you.

But now it was back, you could feel Helion shaking you softly to wake you up. But you didn't want to, you wanted to see it, see your baby, apologize once again.

Blood, screams, wetness, cold, cries, prayers, emptiness.

You hold onto those memories with your dear life, you wanted to see its face. But did it have a face? The healers said it didn’t, being so young that nothing was formed yet. But sometimes you like to imagine, its skin, eyes, and voice. Anything.

Blood, screams, wetness, cold, cries, prayers, emptiness.

Suddenly it stopped and everything was gone. You felt the sweat on your skin, felt the chill air of the opened windows, saw the different walls, felt the different beds, and realized how full you were. You feel full.

You got up abruptly, feeling the gentle shaking of Helion's hand on your shoulder and the worry that flew through the bond. As your senses gradually returned, you realized the nightmare had dissolved into the cool reality of your bedroom. Beads of sweat adorned your skin, a stark contrast to the chill air that crept in through the windows.

- Babe, are you okay? - Helion's voice sounded on your side, his face calm and serene, but his eyes holding the worry and pain you know he also feels.

- I'm fine. I'm fine now - You don't know if it's true or if you are just trying to calm yourself down. But it works. It might also be Helion's hand traveling up and down on your back, warm and soft as always, pushing away the cold, filling you with heat.

- The same nightmare? - He grabbed your waist and pulled you to him, holding you for dear life.

- Yes. It's back. But I'm fine - You reassured him again, your voice quivering slightly - I'll be fine now - You hoped the words would turn into truth to the both of you, even if you weren't entirely convinced yourself.

- Do you want to talk about it? - He inquired softly, his voice laced with tenderness and concern. He pulled you closer, his arms encircling your waist, creating a cocoon of safety and warmth that only he could provide to you.

- Yes, please - You nodded, a shiver coursing through your body when the memories threatened to pass by - I'm scared - You admitted, your voice barely a whisper.

- It was just a nightmare, you are healthy and safe - Helion pressed his lips against your forehead, his touch as gentle as a feather - I'm here, my love. I'll always be here. We'll be together as I promised you, I won't leave your side ever again, we'll face whatever comes our way.

Tears welled up in your eyes, emotions threatening to spill over. The weight of your shared grief and your unspoken fears were heavy, but in Helion's embrace, you found solace. His unwavering support had become a beacon of hope in the darkest of times. The warmth of Helion's touch, his unwavering presence, helped anchor you in the present moment.

Amidst the fragile vulnerability that lingered in the room, you found the strength to share your deepest apprehension. The truth lingers in your tongue along with the fear of finally pronouncing the words that you kept to yourself for such a long time.

- Helion, I... I'm pregnant again - You confessed, your voice trembling with uncertainty, the tears ready to roll down your face at any moment - But I'm so scared. I'm afraid that I can't hold the baby like last time. I don't want to lose another one.

His eyes widened with a mixture of surprise, joy, and concern. As much as he didn't want to show it, you could still see the spark that ascended in his eyes when he heard the news. Helion's grip tightened around you, his voice filled with raw emotion

- My love, whatever decision you make, I will stand by you. We can face this together, but please know that I'll let you decide. If you think you can't go through this then you don't need to, but you are strong, stronger than you give yourself credit for. You are capable of holding life within you, of raising it with your love and tenderness - He caressed your face while saying every word, not looking away from your eyes while saying it - The last time you caught a disease, it wasn't your fault and it would never be. You did everything right, it just wasn't meant to be. You decide now.

His words pierced through your fears, cutting through the darkness that clouded your mind. Tears streamed down your cheeks as you clung to him, overwhelmed by a surge of love and gratitude. Helion's own tears mingled with yours, cascading down his face as he approached you.

- I want it so bad. I want to be a mom. I want to give you a child for you to hold. I want to give Lucien a sibling - You proceed every word with hope and love, snuggling closer to your mate as you imagined your future with him and a new child - I'm ready to try again if you stay with me.

- I will. You will probably have to ask Lucien to take me away from you when I stick to you from now on for every second of the day - You laugh as he proves himself right by squeezing you in a tight hug, pecking your face and neck numerous times - I can't wait to be a daddy with you, to create a life together that will be a testament to our love.

Through tear-streaked smiles, you both decided to keep this precious secret to yourselves until you were certain the baby would make it to the end. The road ahead was uncertain, but with Helion by your side, your heart was filled with renewed hope and the conviction that you were not alone.

In the tender embrace of your mate, you allowed yourself to bask in the sweetness, love, and softness that enveloped your being. Feeling more confident than ever for the path you were about to follow. The journey of healing and new beginnings had just begun, but with each passing moment, you grew stronger, especially together. And in the depths of your love, you found the courage to believe in the miracles that awaited you.

Moonlight

Chapter II: A Million Dreams

When Hybern falls, all of their prior experiments are free to take the world as they want, but for months no one hears anything coming from the castle. Until the massacre. Until the whole palace explodes. Their biggest weapon is out, and she only has one objective: get back to her sisters.

Warnings: mentions of blood, mentions of child abuse, mentions of experiments with human beings, mentions of child murder (please someone tell me if I forgot something)

I love this song so much it hurts

Imagine baby Azzie singing this in his tiny little cell dreaming about a mate that wouldn't be born until five hundred years later 😭😭😭😭

Than baby Aemma singing this in her tiny little cell without even knowing what a dream is 😭😭😭😭😭😭😭

I like to hurt myself apparently

I'll let you guys find the lyrics to rhe song in the middle of the chapter, good luck

I'm not sure if I like this tho, please leave a comment, I'm the happiest when someone sends something 🥺🥺🥺🥺🥺

The days seemed to pass slower than usual for Azriel. Over the past few years, he had grown accustomed to dealing with all the love and countless mating bonds snapping into place around him. It was becoming easier to stand at the edge of the room, unnoticed by everyone, the shadows hovering around his body helping him fade into the background.

He used to be better than that until the Archeron sisters officially became part of their lives. Feyre, ever the optimist, wanted everyone to be happy and together all the time. She was like a little ball of happiness, eager to spread it to everyone around her. For a good while, it worked.

Nesta, on the other hand, seemed to want everyone to be as miserable as she was. And somehow, Azriel understood her. For as long as he could remember, life had always seemed bleak. Even when others could move past their fears and problems, learning to accept themselves with all their mistakes, Azriel couldn’t. He hated himself because that was the only thing he had ever known how to do without error. Unlike him, Nesta actively tried to make everyone around her miserable as well, Azriel never had the courage to do that, though the thought crossed his mind more times than he cared to admit. But now, Nesta had found her mate, her self-love, her family, and her strength. Now, she fought for everyone to find their own happiness too.

And then, there was Elain. Sweet, delicate Elain. She wanted everyone to feel calm, to find their peace. She wanted to be his peace too, just as he had been hers in those early days, years ago, when she first arrived after being made fae. He used to dream of her face back then, though it was always blurred, as if something prevented him from seeing her clearly. He had thought she would be his mate, but Lucien was. He could feel it, damn, even smell the bond between them. And yet, something still pulled him to her. His mind? His heart? He wasn’t sure. But something. Azriel never told Rhysand about the pull he felt toward Elain. The fear of rejection and the disgust he imagined in his brother’s face every time Rhys caught him looking at Elain too long kept him silent.

Somehow, there were moments that was harder for him to remain invisible. Feyre tried to cheer him up, Nesta tried to make him feel worthy, and Elain tried to make him feel loved. But none of it worked. He laughed, he felt happy around his family - he loved them, for Cauldron's sake - but he was not happy. He didn’t feel like he deserved anything but sorrow and suffering, and he certainly didn’t deserve love, especially not from Elain. She loved the idea she had of him, but she didn’t know the real him, his shadows hid from her because she couldn’t associate him with them. She knew his pain and his sadness, but not his soul, not his heart or mind. And she never would, their pains were too different to understand one another fully.

That was why Azriel had spent the last four years running, like a stray animal. Missions and work filled his mind every waking hour, so there was no room left to think about anything else. He didn’t think about Feyre’s happiness if death consumed his days. He didn’t think about Nesta’s strength if only work filled his time. He didn’t think about Elain’s love if grief surrounded his heart. He didn’t think about the hatred he had for himself if the only thing on his mind was hatred for his enemies.

"You don’t need to do this, you know?" Rhysand said, entering the weapons room as Azriel filled every inch of his clothes with something sharp. "We can send another spy. Or Cassian. He could use something alive as a punching bag right now."

"No need. I’m going," Azriel replied quickly, wanting to end the interaction. His relationship with Rhysand had been strained ever since Rhys told him to stay away from Elain.

"Az, you’ve barely slept this past week. If the beast is too strong, you won’t win. You might get hurt," Rhysand pressed, watching Azriel bend down to lace his shoes. Azriel did his best to avoid this conversation, keeping his hands busy with the task "Are you even listening to me?"

"Loud and clear, Rhys," Azriel muttered, though his voice lacked emotion. "I just don’t want to talk. This is the last mission for now," He added, straightening. "I won’t do anything else until next week."

"You need to come back alive. Nyx can’t lose his favorite uncle," Rhysand said, his voice filled with both warning and concern.

"Don’t let Cassian hear that. He’ll be grumpy for a year." Azriel managed a small grin as Rhysand laughed and gripped his shoulder, offering what little reassurance he could. 

"I’ll come back," Azriel said quietly. "I always do."

"I know," Rhysand replied, stepping back. "Just… Feyre’s not sure you should hunt the beast right now. She has a bad feeling."

Azriel shook his head. "I won’t let that monster terrorize any more villages. It’s my job to keep them safe."

Rhysand nodded, giving him space to winnow. "It’s just a weird feeling. But I know you can do it."

With one last breath, Azriel let the shadows engulf him, the familiar sensation of folding time and space filling him as he disappeared, ready to begin his hunt.

In another place of the Court, one big group was finishing their journey, winnowing the last few travelers to safety. Each girl carried a small bag with something of importance -clothes, a weapon, or a cherished book. It didn’t matter what they carried, because within each item was a story, a piece of themselves they refused to leave behind. 

The border of the Night Court was calm. Their destination, a clearing nestled within a beautiful and dense forest, seemed almost serene. The warm climate in the open camp was tempered by the canopy of trees that surrounded them, creating a soft breeze that made the air feel comfortable and humid. It was enough. They knew the High Lord would sense any significant movement within his borders, but that was exactly what they were counting on - to be found, to offer their skills, and to ask for help. They needed the Night Court to know they were here.

One of the travelers, Aemma, still working as their leader, silently counted each girl as they arrived, ensuring all were well and strong enough to bring in more from the last group. There were only a few more left to transport, and they had been careful, winnowing in small batches to avoid sickness from the vast distances between the Spring and the Night Court.

Suddenly, the air around her seemed to shift. The usual noises of the forest - chirping insects, rustling leaves, the soft whispers of the girls - vanished, replaced by an unnatural silence that kept ringing in her ear. She straightened, senses immediately on alert, her eyes scanning the perimeter for the source of the disturbance. Her warriors noticed the change in her demeanor and quickly readied themselves, some shifting into defensive stances. But she didn’t focus on them, she saw further, beyond the trees.

Miles away, something dark and terrible was happening, breaking something inside of her that she couldn't quite place. Fear, blood, and despair wafted through the air, reaching her like a wave. Her pulse quickened. Something deep inside her stirred - an ancient, primal force that pulsed with urgency, demanding her attention. She didn’t need her weapons, this feeling, her power, was far stronger. It was the Enchantress within her, awakening, eager to take control. 

Without hesitation, she winnowed, her body folding through space, to the source of that bright, pulsing thread deep in her chest. The scene she arrived at was nothing short of brutal. A massive beast, bloodied and wild, was attacking a winged fae - a male, an Illyrian, judging by the distinctive wings. He was struggling, his movements slow and sloppy, as if exhaustion from the fight had drained his strength. His unfocused eyes betrayed his fatigue. He was fighting for his life, and he was losing. 

She felt the Enchantress surge, the hunger for death overtaking her. She let the magic flow through her veins, consuming every part of her being, until all she could feel was rage. The beast roared, claws tearing into the Illyrian’s flesh, but she hardly registered the sound. Her mind was focused solely on the thread, bright and blue, somehow binding her to this male, tugging at her heart with every beat.

Without a word, she stepped forward, her hand not reaching for any blade or power. She didn’t need them. The Enchantress would be enough.

The beast sensed her too late. In a blur of movement, she was on it, her body a whirlwind of lethal precision. She moved with an unnatural speed and grace, her fingers tearing into the creature's flesh with the force of her power. She didn’t hear the beast’s screams. She didn’t see the blood splatter across her skin. All she felt was that weird connection, that string pulling her closer to the Illyrian.

The beast was large, easily towering over her, its teeth gnashing and claws slashing wildly in a desperate attempt to shake her off. But she was relentless. She didn’t stop. Her every strike was calculated, lethal, the way her masters told her how to do it. The Enchantress within her roared with fury, and with every pulse of power, the beast weakened. It faltered, its roars turning into pained howls as her grip on it tightened.

The Illyrian was on the ground now, barely conscious, blood still pooling around him. His eyes fluttered closed briefly, but just in time to see her. But he didn’t have time to think. His vision blurred again as he slipped back into unconsciousness.

With one final, devastating blow, she brought the beast down. It collapsed, its massive body crashing into the earth with a sickening thud. She stood over its lifeless form, breathing heavily, her hands covered in its blood. The blue string in her chest pulsed, brighter than ever, tugging her toward the Illyrian.

Azriel had been stupid.

Stupid, senseless, reckless, stubborn - every adjective for foolishness could have described him at this moment. But admitting that now wouldn’t save his life. He might die if he didn’t fight back. He would die if he didn’t get help. Desperation clawed at him as he screamed internally for Rhysand, for Cassian, or even for Feyre to come. He screamed for anyone to hear him, anyone to help, but his mind couldn't focus as teeth and claws kept coming into his vision.

He shouldn’t have come. He should’ve let Cassian take his place. He should’ve slept more. He should’ve told everyone he loved them. Had he said it enough? No. It was never enough.

Memories flooded his mind. As a child, he used to dream so much. He would close his eyes to escape the darkness of his cell, dreaming of a world beyond the shadows. A world where the skies were clear, and freedom wasn’t just a distant wish. Every night, as he lay on the cold ground, he let those dreams fill his head - a million scenarios of what life could be if he were ever free. He dreamt of a life outside the darkness, a life where he wasn’t the forgotten bastard child locked away.

He used to dream of a girl. Her face was always blurred, her features indistinct, but he would tell his mother about her, imagining she would be the most beautiful female he’d ever meet. His mother would laugh, telling him to keep that dream alive, to find her one day when he was grown. It had taken him centuries to dream of her again.

When Azriel first saw Elain, he thought she was the one from his dreams. But her eyes weren’t the right color, nor was her hair, nor was the fierceness he had imagined in those indistinct features. She was close, yet not the same. But now, as he lay on the ground, his face smeared with blood and his chest burning from the wound that refused to heal, he wondered if he was dreaming again.

A blue light filled his vision as he watched a female - fierce, unrelenting - tear into the beast that had attacked him. It wasn’t clean or quick as she took her time, savoring the beast’s screams, making a mess of it on purpose. And yet, in that violence, in the blood and chaos, Azriel saw some kind beauty. This felt like one of the many dreams that had once kept him sane in the dark. The beast howled, its dying scream reverberating through the forest as the female wrenched its heart from its chest. 

Azriel's shadows danced around her, almost reverently, as if they too admired the raw brutality. His senses, dulled by pain and exhaustion, softly returned. His heartbeat steadied, and the fog around his mind slowly began to clear. The female stood over the beast’s lifeless body, her posture shifting, as though she had become someone else entirely. Slowly, she turned, and Azriel's breath hitched.

For a moment, all he could see was Elain. But this female’s eyes were different - sharper, fiercer - and her hair was of a darker brown, a few blue strings peeking out of her braid, but he thought he was imagining that. She looked like a vision, a memory brought to life.

"Are you alright, sir?" Her voice was firm but filled with concern as she approached. Azriel blinked, trying to shake the fog from his brain. But still, it was Elain’s face he saw. “Are you Azriel? Spymaster of this court?”

“Elain?” he whispered, his voice rough with pain and confusion. The female’s eyes widened in surprise, and she knelt before him, the scent of coffee and wood flooding his senses. It was unlike Elain’s scent of jasmine and honey - this scent was stronger, fiercer, like the female before him.

“You know her? Is she here? Can you take me to her?” There was desperation in her voice, her blue eyes darting between Azriel and his surroundings. He realized then, she wasn’t Elain. Not quite. “Sir? Do you think you need a healer?”

Azriel shook his head, though his body still ached. “No, I just need time,” he replied, taking the hand she offered as he struggled to his feet. “Who are you?”

The female’s eyes narrowed slightly. “First, I need to know who you are,” she said, her tone sharp but not unkind. “I just saved your life. I think I deserve that.”

“I’m Azriel, spymaster of the Night Court, as you guessed,” he said, his wound now almost closed. But he didn’t release her hand. “And you?” She hesitated, glancing toward his shadows and the darkened forest. Her earlier confidence faltered for a moment before she spoke. “You asked if I knew Elain Archeron, I do. She is my High Lady’s sister - Feyre’s sister. They’re under my protection. Now, who are you?”

At the mention of Feyre, the female’s eyes filled with sudden emotion. “High Lady’s sister?” she whispered, her voice trembling. “You mean… High Lady Feyre?” 

Azriel nodded, watching as the female’s expression shifted, tears welling up in her eyes. She stepped back, releasing his hand. He could see the weight of whatever news she carried in the way her posture stiffened. His shadows shifted curiously, as if sensing something important in her.

“Tell me your name. Do you need help?” Azriel pressed, noticing the way her composure wavered. As if something inside her had cracked.

“My name is Aemma Archeron,” she whispered, her voice barely audible. “I am Elain Archeron’s twin sister. My grandmother sold me to Hybern years ago to test me with the Cauldron.” Her voice cracked as she continued. “I was one of the few survivors. I’ve been leading a group, nearly a hundred and fifty other females, all survivors of Hybern's slavery, and we’re trying to find a place in the Night Court. If you could… if you could help us, if you could speak to your High Lord, your High Lady... my sister.” She said the last word as if unsure, as if the connection was too fragile to believe.

Azriel’s mind reeled, trying to process what she had just revealed. Aemma Archeron. Elain’s twin sister. Sold to Hybern. Tested by the Cauldron. He could hardly believe it, but the truth of her words rang in the connection he shared with his shadows.

“I think I could use some help, yes,” Aemma said softly, the weight of her story settling between them.

Without wasting a second, Azriel sent a silent, urgent message through the mental bond to Rhysand, telling him everything he had just learned.

"Aemma," he repeated softly, as if testing the name in his mouth, the weight of the moment pressing down on him. "I... I need to get you to Rhysand and Feyre. You and the others."

Aemma nodded, her hands trembling slightly despite her strong demeanor. She still wasn't entirely sure if she could trust him, but she had no other choice. She never had, she felt like. “Yes, please.”

So @lillithathecat who request this, the thing is, everything is getting out of hand omg kkkkkkkkk (Brazilian laugh, I don't know how to laugh in english)

I just have my box filled and now I'm getting nervous (not out of ideas tho, keep sendind) I think I'm gonna pick out one of each prompt and publish it because I'm getting a lot of repeated ones, after that I'll write all the others, is that good?

Good, see you next babies

ALSO CAN WE TALK ABOUT HOW MUCH I LOVE RHYS??? Literally my favorite, could write for him forever, he is my first and last thought of the day SEND MORE REQUESTS FOR HIM PLEASE 😭😭😭😭😭 I want to have a reason to write more

Mastermind

You. Were. Freaking. Out.

Damn it, none of it was in your plans, definitely. I mean, you planned your whole life, how could this not be in your plans? It was, actually, but NOT NOW. You had so many things to figure out in your life yet, you could not possibly be damn fucking pregnant.

Of course, you were, you actually noticed every single change in you since the first week, and have been going to Madja over and over again for the past two months, you know and have made sure you are expecting a baby. But the same amount of happiness you had in your heart you had nervousness.

It was not a bad thing, not at all, you couldn't be more happy to be expecting your first child, but oh gods, so soon? Not soon tho, you were past five hundred years, three hundred of them with your goddamned mate, also husband, also the father of the project of a baby you were carrying, also your High Lord. That last sentence being the reason for all of your worries.

Not just you were the High Lady as well, but the child in your womb was already fated to the weight of the crown in its non-yet-existent head, and it was heavy on you too. The idea of carrying and protecting and raising the future of the Night Court was terrifying.

You studied hard to be the best you could offer for your court, the one you were born and raised and so proud to live in. You planned everything, from top to toe you handed it all ready and verified and corrected and detailed for every single idea for a change or plan to solve problems. That's why you were so admired in every single piece of land in your court.

And yet, you couldn't figure out how to organize your thoughts and feelings to fit a baby into your life. You always knew the day was coming, that's precisely why you stopped taking your medicine. But you honestly thought it would take months or maybe even years to get pregnant, knowing very well how hard it is for a fae to make a baby. But with the number of times you and Rhysand got filthy with each other being impressive, it actually wasn't a surprise you got your one so fast.

But you couldn't stop the worries anyway.

You talked it through with Rhysand, you knew he wanted nothing more than a child, but what if you tell him and he doesn't want it now? What would you do?

The pile of papers and the amount of books in your study room kept staring at you, wondering where you were finally going to start working.

Damn, would you have to stop working for a while and focus only on the baby? Could you still train with Cass, go out with Mor, go jewelry hunting with Amren, and fly with Az? And after the birth, could you come back to your so well-detailed life or everything would have to involve the baby too?

The questions filled your head and flooded your senses to the point that you didn't even notice the door opening and your mate coming in to check on you and have your daily conversation over sweets and coffee of the afternoon. His smile quickly dropped as he took in your state of distress, leaving the tray of food on top of the table to get close to you. He gives you a small touch on your shoulder to make you notice him before he lifts your face to hold it in his hands as he looks at you.

-What happened? Something wrong? - His voice soothes you so much, even more after the pregnancy, feeling every cell in your body light up in happiness for having him there.

-Nothing wrong. I'm just thinking too much - He pulls you up, making you stand in front of him. His hands were still caressing your face as he started pecking your skin.

-You do that when you get a court-related problem and don't know how to solve it, then you get stressed for not getting an answer and get mad at yourself for not being "smart enough" to make everyone happy - He pecks your mouth lightly, his analysis making you chuckle since he was on point in every word - So, what do we have in hands? Who is upset in this court? I didn't receive anything.

-I mean, I got the news a few weeks ago and I've been trying to make sense of it for a while - He waited as you grabbed his hands and kissed them, touching him somehow always made you feel more secure about yourself - But no one is upset. I think everyone will be more than happy with the news. I just don't know how to react. How to tell you.

-Tell me? - Rhysand frowns slightly, pulling you to the nearest couch and making you sit on top of him, cuddling you as a way to make you feel safe to talk - You know that I would never say a bad thing to you, ever.

-I know. That's not what I'm worried about - You grab his hand and put it on top of your stomach, not any different from the other days, as the baby was still the size of a small grain. Yet, the act seemed enough for him to understand - I actually know you will be more than excited.

His face lights up in a fraction of a second, his eyes shining with a thousand stars, the stars you always praise when he looks at you. His arms circle you as his laugh fills in the room, kisses being left all over the skin he could reach. The happiness flew over the bond as you were also laughing, enjoying your mate's reaction. His thoughts and feelings were shooting themselves at you, his heart racing and filling with happiness while small tears ran down his face.

-Thank you so much, my love. Thank you - He murmured while rocking in you, face still hidden in your neck - Why were you worried? This is the best news you could ever give me - His face clearly demonstrated that, the happiest he ever seemed since the day you were officialized as High Lady in front of the Court members. He kisses you one more time, this time long and deep and sweet and loving. He loved you. Loved the kid you both would get to raise together.

-The timing… I don't know - You dried the tears on his face, pecking his cheeks as he simply took in your scent, finally finding the light scent of the baby growing inside you - I thought I would get more time to prepare myself? Like, make plans and stuff. I know we have eight months in front of us to deal with everything but still… I didn't exactly plan it through.

-You can't plan it. You never know if the seed takes root. It's hard for faes to conceive babies, you know this - He tries to state calmly, the euphoria affecting his senses making it hard for him to focus completely - You don't need to plan anything. There are moments in life that you simply have to live through.

-Well… Yeah, I think so - He pecks your face more times and you laugh, trying to brush off the uneasiness you felt by not being in control - I never experienced a situation like this, but I think we can manage.

-What do you mean, "never experienced"? Being High Lady of the Night Court was all in your plans? - He laughed and stopped right away, taking in your expression, almost as if he caught you committing a crime - You planned to be High Lady?!

-No! Not being High Lady itself… just… work with you, have a really high rank in politics, maybe be your advisor - He was shocked, his smile growing as he took in the information - I mean, that's what I spent my whole life studying for, you know? To work!

-But when I met you I thought-

-Thought I was just an artist trying to make money on Rita's while singing a lovely song about breaking rules, changing the world for the greater good, bringing peace with my group of freaky friends to the city, and living happily ever after in the world we created? Then Rita went to your table and told the Inner Circle they would get a free round of wine that day if one of you went up on the stage and sang a duet with me. Mor's heel was broken, Cassian couldn't even try because he spent the whole week screaming in the camps and Azriel still was too shy. So you went up on the stage because "what better than a fun challenge with a pretty girl that makes music about all of your dreams", right? We sang, and you gained a free round of wine and invited me to drink too, I accepted, said something about the changes they were doing in the Rainbow, I gave slight ideas as if I was just a normal citizen of Velaris that was trying to make my city a better place. Even if you were drunk you kept those ideas in your mind and passed them to your father. The next week, oh my, look who we found in your favorite coffee shop! Remember the one you went to every Wednesday after a reunion with your father? That one. You found me, we talked, and you asked me if I had more ideas. I said I did. You were flirting but were also curious. After three or four weeks I was basically your advisor. I didn't plan to fall in love with you, but it was a welcomed feeling since you were as sweet as people talked about. We kissed, the mating bond snapped, and we married. Bingo! I'm High Lady and everything went as I planned, like pieces of dominoes falling in order - Rhysand frowns slightly and realizes how everything you said matched perfectly with those first weeks you both met each other. His face turns to you with a shocked smile, his mind still processing all of the information - So yeah, never planned to be your mate, but definitely planned our encounter and everything after.

-How? - It was the only word he could process, his hand still caressing your sides.

-During my childhood kids never wanted to play with me for some stupid reason I don't even remember, but from then on I swore I would make everyone love me so I would never feel alone again, and would make it seem effortless. I talked with everyone in Velaris when I first moved in. I wanted to have a job with the current High Lord, but everyone seemed scared of him, yet they loved you. So I guess it would be easier if I made friends with you, right? Anyway, you already had your Inner Circle, and it was basically impossible to get in, so I reunited every information I could from you. Your preferences, your family, your friends, your habits, I even talked with some of the girls you fucked just to make sure, nowadays I understand why I always felt so jealous. Then I took music lessons after meeting Keir once and discovering that you loved the performances they had in the Court of Nightmares. Then, I studied Illyrian culture and made some friends, also some funny enemies during my oh-so-convenient trips to Illyria, they were the ones who made Cassian lose his voice, by the way. I never had to pretend though, I was actually really interested in all of this, even more in you after we started to talk. After securing my friendship with Rita I just had to put everything into action - You smiled a little bit, as if you just didn't break his whole world twice in a short span of time - So… how do we feel about this?

-About what? Your amazing planning and spying skills or the pregnancy?

-You are not mad at me? Or scared? - You let out the breath you didn't even notice you were holding. Hearing his laugh only assured you he was okay with this little piece of craziness you held inside of you.

-Darling, you are a mastermind. I know this since the first time I saw you manipulating Keir for days to make him accept one of our new rules - He brushes one strand of hair in front of you and looks you directly in the eyes - I never feared you because I always knew you would never do anything bad. You're just evil in the right situation, I think that's why I knew you would be the most perfect High Lady - He kissed your neck, slowly making his way up to your lips. His skin was hot as fire now, the air heating up too as he kissed you deep to show the devotion you fought so hard to get - It actually turns me on to know you manipulated me. How weird.

-Does my High Lord like it when I outsmart him, hm? - His breath hitch a little before he grips your hip and brings you closer than possible, your hands blindly trace his tattoos on top of the clothing, their shapes well known by your mind from the uncountable amount of time you spent decorating them in his bare skin.

-Surprisingly I do - His hand sneaks under your shirt, placing it directly on top of the place it would swell in a short time - Maybe we can call it a day and commemorate your mind and our future alone, in bed, maybe you can tell me about all the other plans you had while I lick every piece of skin you have.

-I already have a baby growing in me, you know? You don't need to try anymore - Your laugh is quickly replaced by a moan as his other hand travels to the inside of your trousers.

-Maybe we can rush and put another one - His mouth captures yours and he winnows you both to your shared room, your back against the soft mattress as his hand keeps its job.

-I'm pretty sure that's not how it works - His chuckle fills in the room, in a snap of his fingers all of your clothes disappear.

-And I'm pretty sure I just want to eat you out - He quickly dropped to his knees in front of you, his mouth making the travel it made thousands of times before.

Maybe you could finally let destiny make its way without a thought about it.

For the Acotar Bingo could you do Pregnancy with Azriel?

You thought you were going to be free from me? NEVER MUAHAHAHAHA I promised to do all of the requests and I WILL

See? I'm not capable to do a one-shot without giving their whole story before. Not that any of you mind I guess 😎😎

I don't know if it's something you like but hey! Let's give this poor author a try, alright?

Anyway, hope you guys enjoy this 🥰🥰

Never Knew I Needed

You always knew Azriel would be the greatest male that ever got into your life. From the moment you saw those eyes looking at you from the other side of the room until the scene going on in front of you, you decided that this male would be forever cursed with your presence in his life. You doubted he would mind tho.

It all started when your friend got you an extra invitation to the High Lord's starfall party in one second she was guiding you through the food table and in the other she found another friend of hers and simply disappeared. Easy like that you stayed a good part of the night eating every single different appetizer you could find. This kept going for a long time until he saw you looking like a fish out of the water and smiled at you from across the room.

And, oh my, wasn't he ravishing? The most beautiful male you ever encountered in your life. And yes, you were counting those funny-looking shadows that kept flying around him as part of his charm.

You didn't smile back through, too shocked with his looks to make your brain work properly. He raised an eyebrow and made a wave with his hand, signalizing for you to approach. Not that you did, your first reaction was to put another deliciously fried cheese thing inside your mouth and look around to search for who he was talking to. It couldn't possibly be you… right?

As you were ready to take another cheese ball a shadow appeared in front of the bowl, after circling your wrist and tugging the sleeve of your dress you finally looked back at the male, he was definitely trying to contain a smile that threatened to form in his mouth. Damn it, you wanted to see that full-mouth laugh he was trying to hold back.

That's when you finally realized he was waving at you. Oh, gods, everything made sense now, he was one of the High Lord's men and he discovered you were nothing but a mere citizen and that you were not part of the High High Fae, but a Low High Fae. By the Mother, you could just jump out of the building and hope for a quick death if he was going to take you to the dungeon and torture you. Could you possibly give away your friend for sneaking you there? You decided that no, however the torture method you were going to face you would never EVER give away your friend. Even if she deserved it for abandoning you there.

You quickly popped another ball into your mouth before following the shadows that looked so happy to guide you through the crowd. When you made it to the male you were already finished chewing that delicious food, hoping it wasn't the last proper food you were going to taste before being only fed with old bread and dirty water for the next few days.

- Oh well, hello there - He said, his voice causing reactions in your body that you didn't think were possible.

- Hm, hi? I guess - To say you were scared was ridiculous, you were ready to pretend to have a heart attack and get away from there - Look, I'm sorry if I'm not on my best behavior. I'm just a little nervous that my friend disappeared from my view and she was kind of my guide here, so, yeah, I'm sorry that I'm eating the whole buffet. But you need to understand, it's my first time here, and, I kinda figured out you already know that I'm not part of a rich family or even deserve to be here, I mean, my parents are bakers! How could I possibly get an invitation, right? That's what you were going to ask! So, this friend that I was talking about, Stella, she got me an invitation, it was supposed to be her sister but she got sick last week and told me to come to her place. Yes, I know, fake identity is a crime, but hey, having fun for one night is not! I swear I'm not going to do this ever again, if, and only if, you promise to not take me to the dungeons to only feed me bread and let the rats ruin this beautiful dress, because, you know, this is not even mine! I borrowed it from Stella! Please mister scary and strangely handsome winged muscular attractive male, don't kill me! I swear I'm usually a good person, I had a good education too, you know? I don't know what happened to me tonight, but I promised I'll be better from now on!

You could only watch as his face morphed from a shocked expression to the most amused one. The laugh he seemed to be holding now made music to your ears, and you wondered if you actually had jumped out of the mountain and were now in that heaven with milk honey or something like that people always talked about.

- What? - He laughed even harder as you tried to catch your breath.

- You are not one of the High Lord's men?

- Well, that I am - He said as the laughs slowly turned into small giggles.

- But you are not going to arrest me? - His eyes sparkled as he took you in, his smile now permanent on his face.

- Why would I do that to such a beautiful female? - You felt your face heat up at his question, mischief covering his expression as he realized the effect he had on you.

- You called me here for what, then? - One of his shadows slowly made its way to your arm, resting on your shoulder as if trying to warm itself.

- Can't a male try his luck with a pretty girl at his brother's party? It's Starfall, after all, I was kinda hoping you could give me the gift of your night - That made you dumbfounded, you weren't going to lie to yourself.

- You are quite shameless, huh? - His eyes traveled through every part of you before stopping at your face again.

- I'm not the one giving away my best friend Stella for inviting me to a party - Your eyes surely were popping out of your head as you realized what you said only minutes ago - But I promise I won't tell Rhysand if you give me the pleasure of your company for this night, my lady - He offered you his hand, a shining stone glowing in the back of it - And maybe I can personally invite you for the next Starfall and you won't have to commit a crime again.

You gave him your hand as you felt a smile appear on your mouth, making his expression light up from the simple view of your happiness.

That was basically how, thirty years later, you were now caressing the shadowsinger's hair as he sang for the little baby inside your belly, making yours and his heart calm as the smooth voice of your husband filled the place around you and he finished the song and kissed you belly one more time before pushing himself up until he met your lips with his.

- What that big mind of yours was thinking, hm? - He knew you too well, thirty years of sharing your lives and you learned that you could never hide anything from him.

- Just remembering the day we met - He slightly chuckled before wrapping you in his arms, keeping a hand on your stomach to make sure his future son would stay calm and finally let his mother sleep - Weird to think I was hoping to not get arrested and ended up caged to you. Now I'm carrying your child and you sing to him when he kicks too much while I admire that pretty face of yours and imagine how in this universe I got you to fall in love with me.

- You never asked, actually - At your confused look he kissed lips quickly before explaining - Why I fell in love with you. I know that you took your time but I knew that you would be my wife the moment you begged me to not let the rats eat Stella's dress in the dungeon. You're the best thing I never knew I needed, even if I always searched for.

- You're the best thing I never knew I needed too, Az. Thank you for loving me, for giving me the life I have right now - You joined your hand with his on top of your belly, feeling your son kick lightly as if to say he agreed with you - I love you more than life itself.

- I should be the one thanking you. You changed my life for best and showed me so many different ways of living - He kissed you, deeply now, taking his time with you, tasting all the love you had to give, and answering with the same amount - I love you more than life itself.

Ladies and gentlemen, I got an 8,5 oh yes the politics genius right here!!!! If my baby boy #rhysand wants to make me his high lady he better know I can easily RULE Prythian if he asks me to 😎😎😎

I swear politics it's my thing and if i don't get at least an 8 on the exam tomorrow I will jump myself out of a building (a chair)

pregnancy w/ lucien?

I was writing another one and SUDDENLY it became Lucien's story. Shocking isn't it? Anyway, maybe the idea was to go through the pregnancy, like, baby in the belly, but hey? Neither I (a young young lady in distress) nor my mother (a lovely mother of two) came up with cute scenarios of reader being pregnant, but we did think about baby being born (her with the memories of her children and me with the memories of my brother) hope you don't mind, anon!!! (Yes, i did give them the name of Hamilton's and Burr's babies, who cares? It needs to fit the song choice!

Dear Theodosia (and Philip)

Lucien was terrified, you could clearly see it in his eyes. His hands were fidgeting in his lap as he looked at you and the newborn bundle you carried in your arms. The healers were running around cleaning everything, from the water splashed on the ground to the blood covering a good part of the linen you were on, all while Madja finished washing your second baby. The little boy cried out loud everytime the water touched his body, something that didn't happen with the girl that was now being fed in your left breast.

You saw your mate's face, the tears that were hanging on the edge of his eyes. ou felt his nervousness as his hand was shaking while he held yours. You knew he was excited with your pregnancy, you saw and felt his happiness every time you caught his hand slipping into your belly to caress the baby - or babies - being formed under it. And yet, while he waited for his daughter to finish her meal so that he could take her, you also saw his fear.

You weren't mad. Obviously not. You know Lucien, know your mate, know the now father of your children. Since the beginning you knew he was terrified of being a father, when both of you agreed to try for babies (his own request, initially) you were prepared for this moment: the moment he realized everything was true. He was a father, he had a family, a loving mate and babies that would love him even more. Everything he was always prived of having.

You heard your mother's shouts outside the doors when one of the healers went out to tell the news. Soon her shouts were united with Helion's ones, and then your stepdad asking them to shut up and not disturb the rest of the patients, although you knew his own face would be covered in tears once he gets to enter your room.

When Madja took the girl out from you and handed the baby boy into your arms so he could eat too, you saw Lucien's face chante into one of nervousness. He let go of your hand so he could take the girl with more security, Madja being trained in all those years in taking babies here and there.

- I don't know how to do this - He said when tried to take the baby from the healer's arms, hearing her squirm when taken out of the comfortable position she was in.

- No parent does in the beginning, young boy, you can take your time - She said and took his arms to place them around the newborn's body. You noticed the exact moment when his eyes shifted to the most soft look he ever wore in his life. You watched as his eyes took in every part of her, her small arms, her big eyes, her tiny hands. And he saw her cries stop little by little as she smelled her fathers scent, Lucien smiled so big you could fill your own eyes tearing with emotion.

- Hi Theodosia, nice to meet you - He whispered into her head, as he bent down to kiss her forehead - I'm your dad - He said and she wiggled her hands as if trying to take a strand of his hair, as orange as his own - But I think you already know that, don't you little girl?

- Miss, both families want to come in, can I let them? - Madja asked you, your eyes never leaving the interaction happening between you mate and your daughter.

- Not yet, give us some more minutes. Lucien will call when we are ready - She only gave a small smile and looked at your little family too - You are lucky. Take care of them.

- I will - She gave you a fast kiss in the head and a caress in your son's cheek, smiling again.

- I know.

- Wanna hold your boy? - You asked Lucien and saw face red in tears, his smile reaching the sides of his face.

- She has your eyes - He said while exchanging babies with you, careful to not hurt any of his loves.

- And Philip has yours - He looked at his son and realized that, yes, indeed, the boy's eyes were the exact same shade as his eyes used to be when he was young - Are you happy, my love?

- What do you think? - He laughed at you, for you, and you couldn't help but giggle a little bit too - I'm surprised any of our parents ran into the room yet.

- I made Cassian promise to hold them in place and guard the door until we are ready to receive them - His laugh echoed again, stronger now. Both of your babies searching for the sound their father made.

- I think they love me - He said, caressing his boy's face.

- They got it from their mother - You smiled at him, seeing his skin start to glow as the fear started to completely fade inside of him, leaving space only for the joy he felt.

- And what a mother they have - You shyly smiled at him, years went by and you still had to grow accustomed to his flirts.

- Sunny boy, happy girl, are you both done? I have a mad grandmother and a crazy grandfather trying to climb on me to get to the door - Cassian screams from the corridor, curses and tantrums being thrown at him - I'm afraid that Helion will curse me, he's searching for his book, can you give a green signal, please?

- Let's end Cassian's suffering and let them in - You laugh at your mate's sad face.

- He is a big, scary general, I think he can handle a small curse from my father - You laughed even harder, now hearing even Rhysand trying to command his general out of the way, as excited as your parents to see the babies.

- Lucien! - You scolded him as he rolled his eyes and got up from the chair.

- Dear Theodosia, dear Philip, prepare yourselves to meet the mess your family is - He said out loud, obviously trying to make everyone outside hear him.

Pride wasn't enough of a word to describe how you felt in that moment, with everything you ever wished to have right in front of you, you realized how much of a lucky person you really were.

Quick question peoples, when we say pregnancy we mean baby in the belly or newborn baby? (Cause I think about the second one most of the time and I'm quite inclined to write the second too)

Garden of Twilight: Part One

Pairing: Rhys x female!Reader

Wordcount: ~10.3k

A/N: I honestly did not believe the first part of this series would be as well received as it has been, but I'm so grateful you all loved it enough to want me to write more. Clearly, I wanted to write more, I had to break this one up into two parts because these characters just wouldn't stop talking to me. I hope you love it as much as I do, I'm sure part two will be just as long, if not longer. And a huge thank you to @redbleedingrose for her constant reassurance that it is, in fact, very good. So if you won't take my word for it, take hers.

Series Masterlist

     The days flow like fine wine into the early weeks of the new year.

     Once word spreads that the newly returned, very eligible High Lord frequents my bookshop, my customer count triples nearly overnight. It seems like one day, I’m keeping up with the flow of customers relatively well, and the next I’m meeting a female Rhys brings into the shop, hoping she can at least keep up with the piles of books continuously stacked on my desk to be reshelved. She’s dressed in Night Court attire, but it’s certainly on the more modest end of the spectrum, and she eyes the blush scarf covering my head with interest the moment she sets her eyes on me.

     Rhys introduces her as Hanita and, though she doesn’t shake my hand, her smile is bright when I greet her. All around us, customers wander up and down the stairs and pick through the shelves, giving my typically quiet, lovely shop the appearance of a bustling beehive. I don’t know how much of this I’ll be able to stand, it’s easily three times the volume of my busiest day last year.

     “Do you have any work experience?” I ask brightly. Hanita tugs at the end of her thick, dark braid as her sharp, russet eyes dart between the levels, following each one up to the glass ceiling.

     “I helped my mother with her stall at the market,” the female says warily, “but it was nothing like this. I can read well enough though, I think I can figure out where everything goes.”

     “Honestly, I’m not used to anything like this myself,” I tell her, gesturing to the crowd forming around the front desk. “The job’s yours if you want it, Cauldron knows we need the help. The female behind the counter is a volunteer, her name’s Mira. Go see if you can help her manage the crowd and I’ll be with you in a moment.”

     Once she’s immersed in the crowd, Rhys takes the opportunity to close the gap between us. His hands remain tucked casually in the pockets of his jacket, as unassuming as ever, but there’s a small smile playing on his full lips as he watches the crowd. I cross my arms and resist the urge to lean into him, though the urge grows harder to fight by the day. I can’t understand how anyone can stand within his orbit and not feel the same pull…though I suppose they do, judging by the amount of females that have been flitting about my shop for a glimpse at him.

     “What’s her story?” I ask carefully, taking a deep, calming breath to quiet my fluttering heart. It’s beginning to get a little warm beneath my scarf, but I can’t necessarily risk removing it while we’re so busy. “Where is she from?”

     “Illyria. One of the smaller war camps- well, what was one of the smaller war camps. What’s left of it’s been absorbed into Windhaven now. Hanita didn’t want to go back and I wasn’t inclined to force her.”

     “She’s Illyrian?” Thoughts of Rhysand’s general come to mind, specifically the magnificent wings he and the shadowsinger bear. “Where-” The cold look on his face leaves me disinclined to finish that sentence. A sick, sinking feeling settles into the pit of my stomach as the realization hits me. “Oh.”

     “Even with my best healers tending to her, it’s taken a few months to get her up and walking again.”

     “I won’t mention it again.” I reassure him, raising a hand to my lips. “I’m sorry.”

     “There’s no way you would have known if I hadn’t mentioned it. She’s healed far better than we’d expected, and I think she’s happy to be able to work again.” His arm brushes against mine and I take another steadying breath. I don’t know how I’m supposed to keep my head when he’s this close to me. Any time the High Lord walks into the room, I momentarily forget that air is important, let alone remembering how to breathe. I thought it might get easier with time, but after my last vision, I feel like little more than a shy, fumbling child in his presence. “I’m finalizing the arrangements for her apartment today. Mor will be by later with the key and a copy of the lease agreement.”

     “Is it nearby?” I ask, running the tally in my head of how much a one bedroom apartment would cost, even on this side of the Sidra.

     “It’s only a few minutes north of here. Don’t worry about the cost, pay her whatever you can afford, the rest is taken care of.”

     “How…?” I ask, turning around to get a proper look at him. His face is neutral, but there’s a twinkle of mischief in his stunning violet eyes. “That’s incredibly kind, Rhys.”

     “I don’t know what you’re talking about,” he says lightly with a look at the clock. Not even he can hide the grin tugging at the corner of his mouth, threatening to break the oh-so-professional High Lord mask he put on this morning, along with that black jacket. Surely his tailor has encouraged him to expand his color range beyond such a lonely color by now. “I’m sorry, I have a meeting I can’t miss. Will I see you later?”

     “If you want.” I shrug, turning back to the growing crowd around my front desk. “I better go sort out the horde before my help runs screaming. You know where to find me.”

     “I do.” His fingers catch the sleeve of my teal jacket. I turn back to see Rhys looking down at me, his brows knit in concern or consternation, I can’t decide which is more accurate. “I would like to have dinner with you tonight. If you’re free, of course.”

     I tilt my head as I study this fearsome High Lord, wanting to meet me for dinner if I’m not busy. What a strange companionship we’ve built over the last several weeks. My eyes flit to the fingers still holding onto my jacket and they immediately fall away, retreating to the safety of his jacket pocket. He hasn’t touched me much since the night he walked me home, in some ways that night feels like it was nothing more than a strange dream. I wear the gloves he’d given me as a reminder that it was not, in fact, all in my head, and we speak nearly every day. I wish I could decide what it is he keeps coming back for.

     The image of the back of my hand covered with that delicate, swirling tattoo flashes in my mind. What would he think if he knew of my vision? It feels wrong to keep it to myself, but I don’t know how to broach the topic. Or if I should. The future is ever-changing, after all, evolving with the whims of those who live it. I shouldn’t be so attached to that vision, but I can’t say the idea is unappealing. It doesn’t take a genius to see the High Lord is a good male who loves his territory.

     Any female would be lucky to have him.

     “It’s all right if you’re busy,” Rhys begins with a small smile and I quickly shake my head, my face heating as I realize precisely how long I’ve been staring at him.

     “No! No, sorry, I’m not busy. It’s…been a long morning,” I mumble, glancing back towards the crowd. “Sorry. Dinner would be lovely, High Lord-”

     “-Rhys-

     “-right, yes, sorry again. Rhys. I’d love dinner. I’m sorry, I should really be getting back-”

     “Go,” he says with a rich, quiet laugh, shaking his head at my obvious embarrassment. “I’ll check back in with you later. Your customers may stage a revolt if they don’t get their books. We certainly can’t have that.”

     “I don’t think they’re here for the books,” I mumble, glancing at the older females hovering at the edge of the group. They only look away when I make eye contact with the willowy one in the middle. How long had they been watching us? The deep chuckle rumbling in the High Lord’s chest rolls through me like thunder. I try to suppress the shiver that runs the length of my spine at the sound of it.

     “Truly, the books are only half of the appeal.” I giggle and turn to ask him what he meant by that, but he’s already through the door, the bell tinkling merrily after him. When I turn back to see the confused looks of the patrons who had been watching us, it dawns on me that he hadn’t spoken the words aloud. My fingers graze my scarf as I check to ensure it’s still in place, not that it would be remotely useful against a daemati. I hadn’t even felt him slip into my mind, but I suppose I wouldn’t know what to look for in the first place.

     I really don’t have the time to be puzzling over this, not with this many people in my shop. I slip behind the desk to relieve Mira, whose crinkled amber eyes dance as she cedes the till to me and drops a stack of books into Hanita’s arms before she bustles the young female off towards the staircase. I throw myself into assisting each of my customers with a smile, even the ones with more impolite questions regarding the High Lord’s presence. Honestly, it’s hard to focus all of my attention on them when I feel the deck of cards at my hand tugging insistently at me. Clearly they have something to say, but I don’t have time or space to indulge them.

     We don’t have a moment to breathe until the shop finally empties in the middle of the afternoon. Mira collapses into a chair near the fire with an audible sigh, sweat-damp wisps of graying hair that have slipped from her practical updo fan around her face.

     “It isn’t always like this?” Hanita asks, wiping her brow with the sleeve of her top. I laugh and shake my head, gesturing broadly towards the chair opposite Mira and the cushions surrounding the low table before finally retrieving my cards from the desk.

     “I promise it’s not, well, it hasn’t been. I’d like to believe it will all settle down soon enough.”

     “Will you still need help if it does?”

     “Mother’s sake, child, have you seen the size of this place?” Mira asks drily as she stretches her legs out before her. “Of course she needs the help, she’s needed the help for a while. You’ll give my old bones a rest and give her the opportunity to take more than a day off.”

     “I’m fine,” I insist with a sigh as I settle myself at the table. The older female opens her mouth to argue, but the bell above the door tinkles and all three sets of eyes turn to it. Roz hobbles in with a tray of tea, a wide grin on her face, and Hanita immediately sets off towards her, clearly intent on helping.

     “I wouldn’t try-” I start, but she doesn’t pay me any mind. Roz turns her calculating hazel eyes on the Illyrian female stalking towards her and jerks her chin back towards the table.

     “You’re new. Take a seat, girl, you look as if the vultures have thoroughly picked you over.”

     “I- sorry?”

     “You heard me, I said sit. Isn’t this the new girl Rhysand mentioned yesterday, savi?” Rhys made the mistake of giving my neighbor permission to use his name the first time they met, much to her delight. I wrinkle my nose at the old nickname and nod, making sure the table is clear enough for her to set the tray down. Hanita follows at her heels, a little dumbstruck, and I almost feel bad for her. Almost. She’d learn sooner or later with Roz that her help would only be appreciated if explicitly requested and not a moment sooner.

     “Her name is Hanita. Hanita, this is Roz, she and Achir own the cafe next door. They also fancy themselves matchmakers.” I shoot the brunette an apologetic smile as I remove my scarf and shuffle my cards, allowing my power to stretch after being contained for so long. “But I think it’s just an excuse to be nosy.”

     “Don’t listen to her,” the elder female says as she settles the tray on the table and begins to pour dark, richly spiced tea into the worn, chipped ceramic mugs she only uses here. “She’s a wicked thing. I have sent plenty of handsome males with hopes of courting her only to watch her turn them away in minutes. Minutes. Males can barely string together a coherent sentence is that little time-”

     “And that’s why I sent them away,” I reply archly, nudging the steaming mug towards the tray so there’s room for my cards to fall where they will. “You sent males who were nice enough, but could barely hold a casual conversation. How do you expect me to fall in love with someone I can’t converse with?”

     “Picky thing.”

     “I don’t know,” Hanita hedges, watching the cards jumping between my hands. “If you want to be loved, I think it’s brave to wait for it.”

     “Doesn’t everyone want to be loved?”

     “Love is nice, but it isn’t…necessary. I’d prefer a good male, someone kind who would be willing to protect and care for a family, should they have one. That is not always a given in matters of the heart.”

     “That is true,” I acquiesce, having seen one too many females my age fall in love with males who made no effort to care for them, to provide for them, to build a home with them. “But neither are they mutually exclusive. I believe you can have love and care. Love and commitment. One does not have to grow from another, you can have both if you’re willing to look for it.”

     A card falls out of the shuffling stack, landing face up. A chalice filled with storm clouds, a crack in the bottom of the glass where the water runs free. Chalices often represent emotions, love. My mother called this one heartstorm, trouble brewing beneath a thin surface that is sure to leak into the world. With enough pressure that chalice can break. When it’s reversed, it symbolizes pouring out one’s troubles, but upright? A storm contained, repressed, breaking the confines of its fragile cage.

     Whatever Hanita or the other ladies say next, I don’t hear it. Another card falls to the table.

     Eyes peering out of a swirling darkness. A nightmare given form. Danger lurking in the dark. Often not a physical danger unless paired with the throne of daggers, but a danger of the mind. Sadness, an encroaching darkness…the next card that falls is a mirror covered with moss and deadly mushrooms, seeing what is hidden within yourself. These three together? Becoming your own worst enemy. Finally, the card I’d been hoping would remain hidden slides out, a throne of battered daggers tipped in rich, dark crimson. Treachery, some sort of betrayal.

     Danger.

     “That looks bad,” Mira murmurs over my shoulder, and my heart leaps as the next card falls out. A pair of swans nestled together, a card that typically represents a happy mating bond, inverted…rejected. “Oh. It keeps getting worse.”

     “I don’t understand,” I murmur, more to myself than anyone here. “I don’t understand who this is-”

     Two cards fall out, their faces stuck together. I peel them apart to reveal the shooting star and the crown of dreams, both inverted. I’m struck with a vision of a dark-haired male sitting at the edge of a rumpled bed, his head in his hands. Traditional Illyrian tattoos span his tense shoulders and trail down his back on either side of his spine, a warrior’s markings on a frame that’s so thin, I can see ribs through the warm, brown flesh. Though I can’t see the male’s face, there’s no mistaking the High Lord of Night for anyone else.

     Oh, Rhys.

     “How can I help?” I whisper, more of a plea to a higher power than a legitimate question. I want to help, no, I need to help. He sacrificed fifty years of his life beneath that mountain, cut off from his territory, from his people, from his family and friends. He lost decades and still did not leave us unprotected. Surely there’s something we can do, something I can do, to ease whatever plagues him. Sadness, betrayal, a rejected mating bond. The sting that my idle comment about mates must have dealt. 

     The card that falls out next gives me an idea.

     I snatch it up and quickly put the rest of the cards back in the deck, clambering to my feet. I feel my scarf slip onto the floor, but I don’t have time to deal with it now. I’ll have to take the risk of being stricken with a vision on my errand, hopefully it will be quick. I drop my deck onto the desk and chance a quick look back at the ladies seated at the table, watching me with wide eyes.

     “I’ll be back in a moment, just…just watch the store, please?”

     “We promise not to burn it down,” Mira says with a small smile, waving me on as Roz looks mournfully at my abandoned tea. If I thought I could carry the mug and not slosh its contents all over me, I’d take it along. As it stands, I’d prefer not to wear it.

     “I promise to be back before the tea is cold! Don’t eat all of the fruit tarts!” I call over my shoulder as I snatch my cloak from the hook by the door and steal out into the last remnants of the cold winter sunshine. And run right into a willowy blonde female dressed in a lovely, royal purple cloak.

     “Oh!” The female’s voice is like a song, rich and vibrant, and I freeze when I realize I’ve heard it before. Slowly, so slowly, I follow the flowing lines of the cloak until I meet a pair of deep, velvety eyes. Her crimson lips curve into a smile as I step back, ducking my head in embarrassment.

     “Sorry, Lady Mor, I didn’t see you.”

     “I had gathered,” she says with a small laugh. “It’s just Mor, by the way. I don’t know that you’ve ever called me Lady Mor before, I don’t think I like it. I’m not sure if Rhys mentioned I’d be by, but he sent me with paperwork and keys for Hanita.”

     “Yes, she’s inside, they’ve just sat down for tea.”

     “You aren’t joining them?”

     “No, I have an errand of my own…but there is an untouched mug that was meant for me, if you’d like to have it instead.”

     “I just might. I was hoping to speak with you a bit, if I’m honest.”

     “Oh? Do you need to order a book?”

     “No, nothing like that,” Mor says, her smile melting into something fond, almost wistful as she looks at me. “I heard my cousin has been spending some time in your shop.”

     “Oh, that. You know how bored people love to gossip. He comes in to read or peruse the shelves, we talk a little, then he goes on his way. It’s nothing, truly.” The words tumble out of me in a hurry to dispel whatever reservations she might have about our relationship, or what others may have perceived our relationship to be. I know I wouldn’t be the first person in anyone’s mind as a match for the High Lord. I’m too common, without even a whisper of noble blood in my lineage; and, though I’m lovely in my own right, I don’t possess the sort of beauty that might attract a male of such standing.

     “Nothing?” she asks, blonde brows rising as she looks at me, her head tilted as if in thought. “Hmm, what a shame. I was thinking you would be a wonderful friend for him to have made.”

     “Oh, well…we are friendly, and I appreciate his company. People have been implying something more and I didn’t want you to think I had…mmm, aspirations. I don’t.”

     “Aspirations,” Mor echoes thoughtfully. I get a brief flash of the eyes in the dark peering up at me from the stack of cards and shake my head, running my thumb over the design of the card I’m clutching.

     “Yes, I- oh, I’m sorry, I really must go. This is a little time sensitive, I think.”

     “Don’t let me keep you. I’ll go in and make myself comfortable, if you intend to be back soon?”

     “I hope to be!” I say as I step around her, flashing a smile before I continue north towards the Rainbow.

     The first shop I stop at is at the edge of the brightly colored arts district. It occupies the bottom floor of a worn, slightly crooked building on the corner of a sleepy intersection. In warmer weather, all of the buildings in this section of town are typically covered in vines of jasmine and moonflowers. If I were ever to give up the cottage, I would want to live in one of the apartments here, with their lovely courtyards and walking distance to the communal garden beds. I tuck that dream away and slip through the weathered teal door into the shadowy embrace of the shop.

     It’s not very large or remotely well lit. The only light source is a large, beautiful hanging brass lantern that mostly illuminates the service counter and the few shelves that line the wall nearby containing little enchanted trinkets. Silver music boxes, small toy boxes with illusions to entertain small children, linked mirrors for communication over a long distance, bottles used to contain a loved one’s scent.

     “Who’s there?” a reedy voice breaks through my observation and draws my attention to the hunched old male behind the counter, staring up at me through large, round glasses with lenses thicker than the bottom of a wine bottle. His blue eyes are hazy and he squints in spite of the spectacles to make out my face as I step up to the counter. “Ah, welcome back! It’s been ages since you were in. How did that book light serve you?”

     “Oh, it works wonderfully, thank you.” I’d given that little iron bookmark with the ball of faelight to Mira nearly a decade ago now. It’s a wonder he remembered it when I had nearly forgotten it myself. “I was wondering if you could do something similar in a bit of a rush.”

     I lay out my idea for him, showing him the card in my hand and explaining the other shop I intend to go into for the piece he’ll need to enchant. The male hums under his breath and sets about leaving through books for the proper enchantments and writes out the total on a receipt that I happily give him the gold for.

     “It won’t be ready until tomorrow afternoon,” he warns me as he drops the money in his till. “Come as late as you can stand it. I have a large order for self-cleaning paint brushes I’ll need to finish first.”

     “I’ll come after I close the bookshop for the day. Thank you so much for your help, I know this is last minute.”

     “Think nothing of it, rush orders guarantee I stay in business. Hurry now, I know that artisan. She’s a lazy girl who looks for any reason to close up.”

     “Thank you!” I tell him on my way out, suppressing a laugh to the best of my ability. I hope no one ever says such things about me. Soon I’m winding through the rainbow, darting around all manner of fae as they peruse the galleries and bakeries and workshops, until I find the shop with a wall of glass facing the streets. Beautiful lanterns hang from display hooks in an array of sizes and colors, some fashioned of brass and copper, others of pure gold and platinum. They’re lovely, but they’re not quite what I’m looking for, so I step inside to look at the tables.

     “Hello!” The fire nymph behind the counter greets me with a small wave. Looking into her wide eyes is like staring into molten lava, the way they shift in the lamplight is almost like the golds and oranges and blacks churning and flowing within the confines of her irises. “Welcome! Have you been in before?”

     “Oh, no, I haven’t. I normally stand outside and look at your displays, but today I actually came to shop. I’m looking for something small that might sit on a nightstand? I’m having it charmed, the enchanter said brass might be the best to ensure longevity.”

     “Any specific colors in mind?”

     “Oh, no, I really need to deliver it to the other shop today.”

     “That won’t be a problem, but I’m afraid I have a variety of colors. Is it meant to be a gift or is it for you?”

     “A gift. If you have anything in blue, the darker the better, or maybe…maybe violet. If you have a design with stars…”

     “Well, this is Velaris, isn’t it?” The nymph laughs, tossing her long, wavy copper hair over a slim shoulder. I show her the card in my hand, motioning to the elements of it I was hoping to imitate, and she nods eagerly. “Hold on, I have a few lamps in the back I’ve just finished that sound like what you may be looking for.”

     She disappears behind a wooden door near far back corner and I hear her rummaging around back there for quite some time until, finally, she reappears with a small, beautiful lantern crafted out of dark brass with small star cutouts and glass that fades from rose to violet to deep, vibrant sapphire, a perfect imitation of the darkening night sky. It’s absolutely perfect.

     “It’s beautiful,” I whisper, lightly trailing the tip of my finger along the edge of one of the panes.

     “What do you think, is it the one?”

     “Oh, yes, I think it’s perfect. I’ll take it.” I willingly hand over the last of the gold in my purse in exchange for a box with the carefully wrapped lantern. Once I’ve dropped it off with the enchanter and made my way back to my little shop, it’s much later than I’d anticipated and the sun is low in the sky. There are a few customers milling about the upper levels, and Hanita is wandering around the third floor with a stack of books tucked in the crook of her arm while Mira minds the desk, perched on a stool I typically keep tucked away.

     “That was quite an errand,” the older female remarks as she watches me hang my coat back on the hook by the door. “Roz went back to the cafe, but you have company waiting with more tea. Hope you’re hungry, she brought enough fruit tarts to feed an army.”

     “Thanks, Mira. Sorry I’m so late,” I murmur, tucking my card back in with the deck on the desk and rewrapping it before I head back to the table before the fire. Mor is curled on one of the thicker cushions with her arms braced on the table as she looks through a thin book bound in worn blue leather. Not one of mine, I would have remembered if I sold it to her. A mug of tea sits near her right hand, lighter than the pot I’d left behind, smelling of sweet honey and raspberries. There is a box near the teapot and spare mug filled with fruit tarts and sweet rolls that brings my stomach roaring to life. I hadn’t realized how much of an appetite I’ve worked up.

     “Welcome back,” Mor says, glancing up at me with a warm grin. “I’m afraid we did, in fact, eat the last of the fruit tarts. But I ordered more! The boys will be glad to eat what we don’t.”

     “Will they?” I flop down onto one of the cushions with a sigh, my back and feet aching from all of the running around I’d done. As Mor fills the empty cup for me, I pluck my nicely folded scarf from the corner of the table and begin to drape it over my head again.

     “Oh yes. By boys, I do mean almost exclusively Cassian. Azriel might get one if he’s lucky, and Rhys…well, from what Roz said, he prefers the nut rolls.”

     “He does,” I murmur, unable to keep the smile from my face. On the mornings Rhys has dropped by the cafe first, he always comes bearing one of Roz’s fresh nut rolls that fills the building with the scent of toasted pecans and the lovely thin, sweet caramel glaze I’ve never been able to replicate. I think she’s even begun to make them more than once a day, just so she’s prepared with a fresh batch any time he might come by. I raise the steaming tea to my lips once the cup is full and happily sip the sweet brew.

     Then I look up to find Mor watching me with a smile of her own. I clear my throat and place the tea back on the table in favor of a fruit tart filled with dark, lush berries commonly found in Illyria. The coarse sugar Roz used to top the tart creates a lovely contrast with the buttery, flaky crust and rich fruit filling. These are my favorite of her winter tarts, so I take my time working my way through one while the High Lord’s cousin continues to leaf through her book, grinning to herself. Once I finish, I clear my throat.

     “You wanted to speak to me, Mor?”

     “I did.” The book before her closes with a slight creak and vanishes with a wave of her hand. “I wanted to thank you, actually. For being so kind to Rhys and making him feel welcome in your shop.”

     “You’re thanking me for being kind to the High Lord?” I ask, furrowing my brow as I stare at her.

     “No,” the blonde says with a small laugh, shaking her head. “I am thanking you for being kind to Rhysand, my cousin. If you do not already know there is a difference between the two, I believe you’ll discover it quickly.”

     “He is always both,” I tell her with a shrug before admitting, “but the majority of his recent visits have been more casual in nature, friendly. I…I think we’re becoming friends, or something like that.”

     “I think you are,” Mor agrees. “I think that’s precisely what he needs, a friend. Someone separate from his duties to his court, who can just be there. It’s important to have that sort of separation, especially after…everything he’s been through.”

     “Has he, uhm…talked about it with you?” All of that lost time would weigh on anyone. And, truly, none of us have any idea what was happening in Amarantha’s court beyond what little had been said in the High Lord’s absence. Though I have not seen any physical scars left from the experience, he remains pale and drawn most of the time, carrying out his duty to the court and seemingly deriving little joy from it. From the little I’ve observed, he goes through the motions much like an enchanted toy.

     “Only once. I expect you haven’t really discussed it, have you?”

     “No. We talk about books or philosophy, I’m always surprised by how voraciously he reads anything I recommend.”

     “Rhys always loved books,” she says, her smile turning fond. “When we were children, we’d spend a lot of time in the Hewn City family library to escape our fathers and court duties. There was nothing he wouldn’t read, I’m happy to hear that hasn’t changed. Rhys likes to think and he likes to be challenged, he’s never liked having anything handed to him. Well, except maybe Roz’s nut rolls, apparently.”

     I chuckle into my tea as I take another sip, weighing the information in my mind. Yes, that all sounds like the male I’ve been getting to know. The few notes I’ve managed to observe him taking over his reading have been riddled with questions and smudged ink, as he often formed new ideas in the middle of the note he was already making. I imagine it would be infuriating for anyone else to try and make sense of.

     “Yes, I think I’ve noticed that as well. We were discussing a chapter of a philosophy book he was reading the other day, something about freedom, I think. Something about what it means to be free and do we truly have free will within the confines of a society- honestly, I don’t recall how that conversation ended. I remember thinking that he does love to try and see all sides of an argument.”

     “Like a dog with a bone,” she agrees, taking a bite of her own tart. “I think he likes the satisfaction of knowing he may have influenced an opinion by providing any and every available argument, even if the outcome was the same.”

     “Why do you think that is?”

     “Oh, I know why that is. Residents of Velaris and the smaller villages have a very different view of the High Lord than Hewn City residents, and that’s amplified tenfold anywhere beyond the borders of our territory. Especially now. I don’t think he enjoys knowing there are people who believe him, and the rest of us, to be monstrous based on rumors or outdated information on how our court was ruled. It’s partially our fault, in some respects. To keep Velaris as a safe haven, in the past our court has deemed it necessary to perpetuate those ideals, but after what happened- what he had to do to keep us safe…I don’t know, but I think his perspective may be changing.”

     “That sounds heavy,” I murmur, breaking off a piece of crust to keep my hands busy.

     “It can be. He’s always insisted it’s his burden to bear, any time a hard call had to be made, and I’m certain he stands by that statement to this day.”

     “So why are you telling me this?”

     “Because you have decided to be his friend,” she says lightly, “which is wonderful. You are so kind, and I believe he needs and deserves that kindness, especially now. I suppose I want to urge you to walk into this relationship, however it may unfold, with your eyes wide open. His path is not an easy one, and sometimes it can be difficult to walk at his side. It is a hard truth that it is not for everyone, he is not for everyone, but I hope that does not deter you.”

     “It does not,” I say, glancing up from my tart. When I meet Mor’s gaze, I get the sense that she’s looking into the heart of me, verifying the truth of my words. After a long, silent moment, she gives a short nod and smiles a little to herself as she takes another sip of her tea.

     “Then I hope to see you around more often. Now, tell me, is there anything new in the romance section? Anything at all. I’m dying for something new to read, but I feel as though I’ve read every book on the shelf twice over.”

     “Not yet,” I tell her with an apologetic smile. “I’ve heard from some of our local printers that there will be a few new releases next month for me to stock, but it’s looking more barren than usual these days.”

     “I wonder why,” she says drily, and we’re both silent for a beat before breaking out into giggles, which only worsens when the male we’d been discussing walks through the door. There’s a brief lull in conversation as the ladies on the upper levels pause to get a nice, long look at him, which only makes us laugh harder.

     “Oh, I don’t know if I like this,” Rhysand says lightly as he stops at the end of the table. “What could be so funny as to have you both in hysterics?”

     “You’re early,” Mor says once she has calmed a little, which is about the same time I manage to blurt between breaths: “We’re not hysterical.”

     “Then why are you winded?” He asks as he drops onto the cushion beside Mor. “Oh, fruit tarts. Did Roz make these?”

     “Of course she made them,” Mor says, closing the lid on the box once he’s snatched one out of it. “But I thought you were eating out tonight?”

     “I am.” Those lovely violet eyes flick to me. “Will you be joining me?”

     “Yes.” I drain the last of my tea before casting a guilty look at Mira and the steadily growing piles of books on the desk, ready to be reshelved. “If I can get this place closed down in a decent amount of time. You might be better off going on without me.”

     “Absolutely not. What needs to be done?”

     “Well, shelving to start. Poor Hanita hasn’t even been here a day, I wouldn’t blame her for not staying on at the rate she’s having to shelve books.”

     “That’s easily done,” he says with a nod. “What else?”

     “Once everyone’s gone, I’ll have to balance the till, put out the fire, sweep-”

     “I’ll work on reshelving,” Mor says as she pops the last bite of her tart in her mouth. “But you’re stuck with sweeping, Rhysie.”

     “Fine,” Rhys says, vanishing the rest of his tart and the box Mor had on the table, along with the teapot and empty mugs. His cousin squawks at her missing treats, but he waves her off with a belabored, “it’s at home, it’ll be waiting when you get there.”

     “It better be! And the other overgrown bats had better not get to them first, Rhysand, or you’ll owe me so many treats.”

     “Have you been putting up with this all afternoon?”

     I laugh at the indignation in his voice and give him a shrug as I climb to my feet after her. “Oh, she was far nicer to me. Mor, are you sure you know where all of those go?”

     “If I don’t, I’ll find out!” The blonde says cheerfully as she whisks a stack off of the corner of the desk. Hanita pauses on the bottom stair to watch Mor flounce past her with a slightly awed expression. Honestly, I can’t blame her, the High Lord’s cousin is a whirlwind in fae form. It truly feels as if it’s Morrigan’s world and we’re all merely living in it.

     “She means well,” Rhys says, his voice suddenly closer than I’d anticipated. I hadn’t heard him stand, much less begin following me towards the desk, and I press my hand to my chest to feel my heart racing furiously beneath it. “I’m sorry, did I startle you?”

     “You move so quietly.” I duck my head as my cheeks flood with heat, embarrassed at being caught off guard. He always seems to do that to me. I feel his hand settle between my shoulderblades, his touch light enough to be shrugged off if I were inclined to. I’m not. “You really don’t have to help, I can manage the sweeping-”

     “Oh no, I haven't swept anything since I was a soldier in the barracks. I’m sure it’s good for me.”

     “I’m sure,” I agree, suppressing a giggle as I step away from him. This playful back and forth feels like a dance I don’t know, but it’s one I’m eager to learn. Sidling up to Mira at the desk, I lean in conspiratorially to whisper, “Mira, would you mind showing the High Lord where the broom is?”

     “The…broom?” Mira glances back over her shoulder, then casts me a scandalized look. “Surely you don’t mean to have the High Lord sweep-”

     “Oh, she does. She said I’d have to sweep the shop if I intend to take her to dinner.” Now it’s my turn to look at the male currently leaning against the side of my desk, smirking at me with such easy arrogance and a spark in those twilight eyes that sends a shiver down my spine. Just when I open my mouth to protest that I had not, in fact, said that, he turns those eyes on Mira and I have to fight not to cackle as she immediately glances down at the receipt book, blushing fiercely. “You’ll show me where to find the broom, won’t you, Mira? I made a reservation I’d hate to be late for.”

     A reservation. My mouth falls open and I fight to say something intelligible, but all that comes out is a mildly offended grunt that makes Hanita look twice at me as she grabs another stack of books from the desk. I’m hardly dressed to go anywhere in this city one would need a reservation for. This time it’s Mira’s turn to laugh at me and she does, a full-bodied cackle at my expense.

     “Get out of here before I fire you both!” My perturbed tone only serves to make her laugh harder, but Hanita’s alarmed expression has me waving her off with an apologetic smile. “Not you, Hanita, you’re safe until you start teasing me, too. Finish that stack and you can go. Honestly, I can get the rest of them.”

     “I’ll get the rest of them,” Mira says reassuringly to the younger female, “after I show this one where the broom is. You go home, girl, you worked hard today. I’ll see you in the morning and show you how to open the shop.”

     “O-okay,” Hanita murmurs uncertainly, nodding as she steps away, her eyes searching the upper levels as she walks towards the stairs. The last few customers just filed out of the shop empty-handed, which I’m assuming was Mor’s doing, and I’m not sure if I should thank her for throwing people out or not.

     Once I’m alone at my desk, I quickly count the till and reconcile the balance with the receipt book to ensure the numbers line up. Mira always keeps phenomenal records, so the task is finished in no time and the funds are locked away in the safe by the time Mira and Hanita are pulling on their own cloaks and bidding me farewell, the rest of the books having been split between them. The lanterns dim the moment the fire goes out, and I turn to see the High Lord finishing up sweeping near the hearth.

     “You’re telling me Rhys actually swept?” Mor’s voice carries across the room as she hops down the final step, brushing her hands against her fine clothes. “I thought he’d use magic to get rid of the dust.”

     “How lazy do you think I am?” Rhys replies before I get the opportunity, clearly intent on defending his honor.

     “I don’t think you want me to answer that.”

     “I appreciate it, Rhys, thank you.” I tell him, hopefully heading off an argument before it can actually begin. I don’t believe we’ll make it in time for Rhys’s reservation if they start bickering now. I didn’t have a close family growing up, not in the way they are. I never experienced what it’s like to have someone to pick at for the joy of it. It must have been fun, growing up with a cousin so close in age. And a sister…well, perhaps I’ll ask about her another day. Not today. “It looks wonderful.”

     “Wonderful, she says,” Mor turns her teasing on me with a dazzling smile. “You’re so nice.”

     “Don’t you have someone else to torment?” Rhys asks, his back to us as he places the broom in the thin closet tucked away between two of the shelves lining the walls.

     “Of course, Cassian and Azriel are supposed to be home tonight.”

     “They’re home.” The High Lord’s voice is smooth and certain as he eyes his cousin before he summons a thick, plain black coat to ward away the winter chill. “Take Amren with you, I’m sure she needs company.”

     “Have you told her I’m coming?”

     “And give her a chance to hide away? No. Tell her I’ll want to speak with her later tonight, she might be more inclined to accompany you without a fuss.”

     “Do you really need to talk to her?”

     “I do.” The minute he considers the matter settled, he looks to me and I straighten a little, remembering I’m actually present in the room and am not simply observing them from a distance. “Are you ready?”

     “Let me get my cloak.” Thankfully, my gloves and earmuffs are in the pocket, so by the time they meet me at the door, I’m ready to go back out in the cold.

     “Will you be warm enough?” Rhys asks as Mor leaves us with little more than a brief wave. I usher him out the door and lock it behind us, slipping my keys into my pocket before I turn around to see him watching me. His elbow is angled slightly away from his body and I slip my hand into it without a thought. “Would you prefer to winnow?”

     “I like the walk, don’t you?”

     “You worked all day, I want you to be comfortable.”

     “So did you.”

     “A different sort of work, nothing quite so physical. You’ve been quite busy since the turn of the year.”

     “I have.” Are we going to talk about the eyes that always seem to follow us? The uptick in patrons to my shop hoping to catch sight of him? I wait for Rhys to press on but he doesn’t, and we slip into a comfortable silence that finds its way between us more often than not. I can’t bring myself to sit in it though, not tonight. Not after the glimpse of a vision I’d had earlier. “Did you have a good day?”

     “It was fine. I spent it in meetings with various lords and a steward who’d rather put a knife in my back than work with me, but we managed to get a few of the items on their very long list taken care of. I’d call it a success.”

     “Would you?” I ask warily. “How can you work with someone like that?”

     “How can I not?” He counters gently, squeezing the hand tucked into his elbow. “They are in my territory under my protection. I cannot pick which of my citizens I serve, though there are days I certainly would like to.”

     “You mean High Lords don’t get to do whatever they want?” His mouth quirks at my teasing, but the expression on his face falls to something more grim as we walk. It’s like watching a mask slip away.

     “I wish that were true. Perhaps it is for some, I don’t claim to know how the others rule their territories, but for mine? No, I do not get to do whatever I want.”

     “What would you do if you could?”

     “Now that is a dangerous question.” His tone is far darker and more contemplative than I’d bargained for. In that moment, it’s like I’ve stepped into a cold, bottomless pit: my stomach flutters anxiously and a chill racks my body. Then the feeling is gone as quickly as it came, swept away on an early evening breeze. “It doesn’t really matter what I would do if I didn’t have to consider the consequences. I do consider them, some days I feel all I do is consider the possible ramifications of the choices I have made or will make.”

     “That sounds exhausting.”

     “Oh, it is.” Rhys glances down at me and smiles then, though it doesn’t quite meet his eyes, and I tighten my grip on his arm. “So maybe you’ll understand why I don’t mind shelving the occasional book or sweeping your floors by hand. It’s nice to be able to give someone help that isn’t going to require much from me.”

     It’s nice to just be useful. It’s a sentiment I understand very well, unfortunately, so I nod to acknowledge the truth he’s revealed about himself. I mull over my own history and I think about giving him a truth of my own. Would he even care to know it? Would it even help?

     “My mother was a Seer, too,” I began hesitantly, toying with a loose thread on my sleeve. “It’s common in her family line for at least one daughter to be one. My mother had it worse than the few of her cousins or aunts that had inherited the gift: she spent most of her life trapped in visions, she was never able to work outside of our home, these scarves I wear stopped working for her long before they had me. I wasn’t able to work until after they both passed, I spent a lot of days trapped at home with her and I’d try to get her out, to…I don’t know, enrich her life however I could, but it’s impossible to help someone who doesn’t even know you’re there most days. So I kept busy, I cleaned, I read to her even when she couldn’t hear me…I’m sorry, I don’t know why I’m telling you this, except to say that I suppose I understand, to an extent, the desire to be helpful in some small way that makes a difference. And maybe I can understand what it’s like to not feel as though your life is truly your own, that your actions have a direct effect on others. It can be very lonely, trying to consider everything at once on a small scale. I can’t imagine what it’s like for you.”

     “I love my territory and my people, so it isn’t a burden but…yes, sometimes I believe it would be significantly easier if I cared less.”

     “The fact that you care at all is what makes you a good leader, Rhys. I hope you know that.”

     “And yet, it still isn’t enough,” he says lightly. “Here we are. Have you been here before?”

     The here in question is a little restaurant on the harbor built around the base of what had been a crumbling lighthouse. Velaris’s first lighthouse, if the stories are to be believed. The property had been purchased during our period of total isolation, and what remained of the lighthouse was restored before the rest of the structure was built out of the pine the lumberyard had left from the Illyrian mountains. In the spring and summer, it’s covered with jasmine and the hummingbirds flock to it. I can picture their little, jeweled bodies eagerly darting between the flowering vines for a delicious meal, much to the delight of the customers eating on the roof.

     But that’s spring.

     Now, in the cold embrace of winter, the vines are dormant and large, jewel-toned lamps are placed between tables, enchanted to heat the space as well as give off adequate light. It doesn’t look like there’s anyone up there tonight, the first I’ve seen since the restaurant opened. Rhys ushers me to the ochre-colored door in time for it to swing open. A willowy dryad greets us with a smile, and the thin, braided vines that flow over her shoulder begin to sprout the most beautiful, delicate magnolia blossoms I’ve ever seen. The scent of them permeates the air around us, and I begin to feel a little lightheaded, almost intoxicated, after a couple of breaths.

     “High Lord,” she says with a curtsy, her voice like a warm breeze through the heart of the forest. “Lady. Thank you for dining with us this evening. My name is Bahaar, can I take your outerwear? Thank you, it will be hanging just back here, let me know if you’d like me to bring it to you. Please allow me to show you to your table.”

     I’d interrupt to tell her I’m not a lady, at least not the sort she must think I am, but Rhys seems to take it in stride and settles his hand on my lower back, urging me to follow her. I don’t know if I can reliably draw breath anymore, let alone make my feet work. I know I’m blushing, but I’m powerless to stop it.

     “You have a lovely restaurant,” he says idly as we wind through an empty dining room set with tablecloths in lovely, rich fabrics and dinnerware that seems to be made of pure gold. “Isn’t it normally busier?”

     “My husband and I shifted the rest of our reservations for half an hour after your arrival, High Lord, so I could seat the both of you without having to worry about a crowded restaurant. I hope you don’t mind.”

     “I don’t, but I don’t mind the crowd either.” It’s not much of a lecture, but the intent behind the statement is clear: do not make allowances for me. I’m still one of you…but I don’t know that he’s ever truly been one of us, has he? How can he, when his position will always set him apart? Bahaar nods and the flower petals flutter like they’re dancing in a breeze. I can’t help but wonder if she has problems with bees in warmer weather, but maybe a dryad doesn’t see bees as a problem.

     We weave through the tables until we reach the curved brick of the original lighthouse and she leads us up the creaky wooden stairs lit with golden faelights. Up and up we spiral until we emerge into the cool night breeze, made infinitely more tolerable by the heated lamps, and we follow her to the low table in the corner near the water, surrounded by sumptuous silk cushions. A thin, tasseled blanket is thrown over the railing beside us, the same color as the wine-dark sea flowing into the harbor. A ceramic bowl of water sits in the middle of the table, where floating candles and fragile magnolia petals drift lazily in a slowly churning whirlpool. A tower of dark fruits and cheeses sits at the edge of the table, and the High Lord ensures I’m settled before he takes a seat across from me.

     “We have bottles of starfruit wine or a spiced pomegranate mead,” Bahaar says and I shrug when Rhys looks at me, ambivalent about the choice. The dryad takes pity on us almost immediately and interjects with, “the wine will pair well with the cheese and fruit, I’ll bring it first. The mead will best compliment tonight's stew, if that sounds acceptable?”

     “It sounds wonderful, thank you.” I smile up at her and the female returns it with one of her own before excusing herself with a short bow. When I turn back to Rhys, he’s looking out at the twilight sky stretching over the harbor. His golden skin is warm in the firelight, and I clench my fists in my lap to deter myself from reaching across the table to touch him. Bahaar returns shortly with two glasses of pale, shimmering starfruit wine, and I take a sip of it to give myself something to do. It’s light and sweet, and I think if I were to swallow a falling star, this would be what it tasted like. After another long few moments of studying the High Lord, silhouetted against the starlit sky, I ask softly, “where did you go?”

     Rhys hums a little, shaking his head before he looks back at me and manages a small smile. “Nowhere. I’m sorry.”

     “Why do you look so sad, Rhys?”

     “I am sad,” he admits, taking a sip of his wine. “I’m trying not to be.”

     “It’s okay if you are, sometimes you need to be sad for a while. Do you want to talk about it?”

     “No.” He shakes his head and inky-black hair falls over his forehead, shielding his eyes from view as he focuses on plating fruit and cheese for us both. “There isn’t much to discuss, if I’m honest, the situation isn’t something I have any control over. I’m trying to learn how to live with it.”

     “And you don’t think talking about it will help?”

     “Not tonight. Maybe after tomorrow it will be easier, I don’t know, but I didn’t come here with you tonight to discuss that.”

     “What would you like to discuss?”

     “You.” When he looks up again, his hair falls away from his eyes and it’s like he’s truly seeing me for the first time since we sat down. The soft, warm smile that lights his face makes my heart flutter. “I want to hear more about you, about your life. Both of your parents are gone now, but it seems you were fairly close to them, weren’t you?”

     “I was. I miss them very much.” Too much, if I’m honest. I miss reading with my mother and midnight talks over tea with my father once he’d finished work for the day. “I think my father is the reason I have a hard time taking days off. He never really had many, he worked most days from dawn to well past dusk to provide a comfortable life for my mother and I, and now…without them, I’m not really sure what to do with myself. Renovating the shop took a lot of time and community effort, once that was finished I didn’t know what to do, so I just…worked. Mira was a regular customer until one day she asked if I needed any help. I did, but I couldn’t pay her at the time, and she’s refused money whenever I’ve offered it. I think she was bored in retirement.”

     “And what about you?”

     “What about me?”

     “You have a successful business, have you thought of what you might like to do next? Take up a hobby? Do some traveling?”

     “Traveling?” Rhys looks puzzled when I laugh at him, so I take another sip of my wine and take a bite out of the blood orange slice on my plate before I answer. “High Lord, I do rather well for myself and I don’t have any outstanding debts. I can’t winnow, I don’t have the sort of money it would take to travel. But I’ve thought about where I’d go. To the continent, perhaps, to Montesere or Rask, maybe Ravennia if there’s a way to do it safely. I’d like to see the world, but I’ve never had the opportunity to step beyond my front door, not even to neighboring territories. I was born in Velaris, I’ll probably die here without seeing much of it.”

     “Maybe not,” he says slowly, taking a bite of soft, flaky white cheese. “Where would you go first?”

     “In a perfect world, where there’s never been any conflict?”

     “Sure.”

     “I miss spring,” I say with a sigh. Rhys flinches at the word and my brow furrows as I study him. “I miss the world being green and full of flowers and life, so I expect I’d like to visit one of the warmer courts. Truly, Winter is last on my list to see, but…”

     “But you miss flowers,” he says in a hollow tone. “Somewhere green. Where…where else?”

     “I want to see something I’ve never seen before. Something centuries old that’s stood the test of time. Old temple ruins or a holy well or…I don’t know. Something incredible.”

     “Something incredible.” This time his voice isn’t so haunted, there’s life in his eyes when he nods at me over his wine. “I believe I know just the thing. Give me a few days to do a little research of my own, but by the end of the week, I should have something to show you that isn’t very far at all.”

     “What are you planning?” I laugh, popping a few pomegranate seeds into my mouth.

     “You’ll see.” My heart soars when he winks at me, then I hear the door open and I look back to see Bahaar leading a small crowd to a table far from ours. I’m a little chilled in spite of the heaters, so I pull the blanket from the rail and lay it across my lap. “Are you warm enough, would you like my jacket?”

     “Oh, I’m fine. It’s only a bit of a chill, I’m sure once the stew arrives I’ll be plenty warm. Now, what about you, Rhys? What do you want?”

     “What do I…want?” He blinks slowly at me, as though I’ve said something strange he hadn’t once thought about. “I want to see my territory thriving, to ensure we’re safe…that we’re all safe. And then, I suppose, I want to live in peace. I’ve seen enough war and bloodshed to hope I can avoid conflict for the rest of my days.”

     “And nothing else?”

     “What do you mean?”

     “You don’t wish to travel yourself? What about a family, a wife?” He snorts derisively and I tilt my head. “Someone to keep you company, does that not appeal to you?”

     “I have company, don’t I? No, I know it’s not the same, but I’ve had centuries to think about it and the last fifty years to realize that any wife I may take would have a target painted on her back, and that goes for any children I sire. And who would choose that? I could never ask it of anyone, it’s not worth it.”

     “I don’t agree,” I murmur, shaking my head. “I know the other courts might think us monstrous, but are we really so reviled-”

     “Not us,” he says too softly. “Me. I have done horrendous things over the last fifty years and made myself quite the monster. I don’t believe there is anyone beyond this court who will ever see me as more than a nightmare, with good reason.”

     “Did you have any other choice?”

     “I truly wish I had.” When his shadowed eyes meet mine, I can’t take the pain bubbling beneath the surface and reach across the table to rest my hand on his. He doesn’t pull away.

     “Then you did what you had to do. I don’t care what the world thinks of you, Rhysand, I know you’re not a monster. And when you find someone who chooses you, I hope you let her stay and love you. You deserve to be loved.”

    He opens his mouth to say more, but once glance over my shoulder has him drawing himself up, and I swiftly remove my hand from his. Bahaar sets two bowls of thick, spiced stew filled with chunks of beef and pomegranate seeds before us, along with smaller bowls filled with sticky rice and two glasses of mead. I’ll take up the mantle of this conversation another day, perhaps, when the subject isn’t such an open wound. For tonight, dinner will be enough. I’ll speak of softer things and think of spring, when things will be warm and alive again.

Omg thank you so much for the fic!! It was so amazing, better than I could have ever hoped for and exactly what I needed 🥹

Ohhh thank you so much!!! You literally just made my day. Sorry if I took too long to write it, but I went WILD after thinking about the story

Thank you again anon!! 🥰🥰🥰