What Element Writer Are You?

What Element Writer Are You?

Tagged by @btsaudge; you can take the quiz here!

I am a Storm Writer 🌊

Writers of the storm, the rain, and the snow. Angst is your element. You mastered the art of making it hurt, in every way. That quiet hurt of a smile on a crying face. Your words whisper to the lonely ones that they’re not alone. You are able to show your readers a universe where everything’s okay, and even if it hurts it’s okay, because being sad is a feeling that deserves to be felt. Yells against the dark of the night. Screams of rage and hurt, tears running down soft cheeks and white knuckles. You are there, screaming with them. Angry at the unfairness, and fighting it, in the first place it attacks you. In the heart. And you’re the hand, offered to the hopeless. With a delicate smile on your lips, you help people stand up again. The storm writer, the one who knows how it feels, to be screaming in the void, and doesn’t want anyone else to live it too. You are the storm writer, but you’re able to build beautiful reigns of ice and snow, and offer comfort to the ones who seek it.

I think I kinda agree with this? Maybe... 😂 What do you all think?

Tagging: @ladyartemesia @luxekook @aroseforyoongi @kimtaehyunq @hobidreams @taetaesbaebaepsae @prisczero

Dream of Red [1]

For the BTS Fabled Collaboration Project sponsored by @ksmutclub and @whipped-kpop-creators​.

Plot: A vain and jealous Queen sets in motion a series of events that will change the Land of Fae and its citizens forever.

Rating: 18+ // NSFW

Genre: dark fantasy | angst | romance/fluff | smut | dark fable/fairy tale

Pairings: Unseelie!Jimin x Seelie Queen! Saoirse [The Spring Queen], Unseelie!Jungkook x Unseelie Queen! Greeva [The Winter Queen]

Warnings: Blood, violence, orgies, seelie/unseelie dislike, ritual offerings, fae court drama, manipulation, mild depictions of gore

Links: FAQ || BTS Masterlist || [ REQUESTS ARE OPEN ]

Word Count: 10.8k

AN: This work is by Admin E and Admin T - we are coming out the woodwork, ladies and gentleman. There are 2 parts and this is the “prequel” to the main story/concept that was originally thought up. Admin E would like to blame the length on Admin T and Admin T will plead the fifth! Please enjoy!

© thebiasrekkers (Admin E & Admin T). All rights reserved. Reposting/modifying our work is prohibited. Translations are not allowed. Plagiarism/stealing is not tolerated by any means. Legal action will be taken in instances of theft.

“Saoirse.”

Two women sat across from each other at a long elegant table. Their beauty was unmatched, but there was much power in a name. And among the courts, one name trumped all.

“Titania.” The Queen of the Summer Court smiled brightly at the mention of her name. The Spring Court Queen remained cordial. “May I ask what brings you in so early?” Because it was very early for the Summer Queen to start snooping. 

Hair like spun threads of actual gold laid on the shoulders, the fairest of skin. The fairest of their kind, Titania - the most cunning and conniving of them all. She smiled, the sound of bells tinkling with the softest of laughs. “Oh, come now, little sister. Why can’t I come to see how you are? How are things going, hmm?” The Summer Queen let her finger swirl in a glass of nectar. 

Saoirse wasn’t buying it. She might be the youngest, but she was just as sly as her older sisters. She knew Titania’s presence meant the older queen’s patience was running thin. While the other queens chose not to pursue what some considered “loose ends”, Titania treated it like a pastime. It was like the Summer Games, and it was the grandest spectacle of them all.

Titania would, with a sadistic fervor, send her best out to hunt halflings. She sought to pad her Court with more servants. She made a mockery of the Lords and Ladies who seeded the human realm with their progeny. As if to teach the rest of the Court a lesson in dealing with humans. Humans were good for sport. Nothing more. The humans began to notice how strange it was that people would go missing in the summer season. They would blame the severe heat, causing people to wander and hallucinate.

They would wander into the land of Fae and remain lost in a maze. It was all a part of Titania’s brutal form of entertainment. Few would stand against Titania - and they too would disappear. But there was only one who escaped; a brave soul who chose the human realm over her home. This made Titania seethe with rage. It was a stain on her reputation, on her very name - and one she sought to rectify with each coming of the summer season.

“Deirfiúr, please.” Saoirse reached across the table, holding Titania’s hand in her own. “I beg you. Let it go. Let this go.” The sadness, and lines of worry, grew with every season. “I beg of you. Every year your games become more and more dangerous. You grow ever more vicious in your pursuits. And when the season ends? You seem to have lost more of who you are - who you were.” 

Titania, momentarily, considered her sister’s words. But she couldn’t help it, couldn’t let that disrespect slide. She had a reputation, a name to protect. “I am the same as I ever was, deirfiúr bheag.” The Summer Queen let her fingers gently slide across her sister’s face. “It’s all in good fun, my love.” She stood, letting their hands fall apart. A flurry of pixies fluttered in her wake. “I bid you good day. We will have time again.” And with that, Titania exited the room.

Saoirse frowned once Titania’s scent began to fade. She hated being lied to - and Titania told the biggest lie yet. She turned to the stone dial in the middle of the room. There wasn’t much time left until she had no power to protect anyone. She wanted to believe Titania but knew that it would be foolish to do so. 

Saoirse stood as the scent of clover and lavender filled the room. “Aithne.” 

The cait-sidhe moved to her Queen’s side. 

“Even now, the veil weakens against our attempts to keep the village hidden.” The feline leaned into Saoirse’s fingers. “What shall we do?” 

The Spring Queen frowned as she moved toward a scrying bowl. “The one thing I had hoped I wouldn’t have to do.” The cait-sidhe rumbled disapproval. “I’ll have to warn the Unseelie Queens that Titania will bloody the equinox.” 

The gravest of crimes amongst the Court. When one Queen acts above their station, it is a disrespect to the Gods and Goddesses. It was one edict never questioned between the Seelie and Unseelie Court. 

“You know you will owe a debt, My Queen.” Aithne moved around the queen, her tail brushing against the woman’s hip. “It is dangerous. Foolish, even. Are they worth it?” The cait-sidhe felt a pang of guilt even asking that question. 

“They all are, Aithne. We are no better than humankind if Titania isn’t stopped. It’s not just about the Wolf and the Child. It’s about the human realm remaining untouched, so they may live as if we were still a myth. That’s the way it should always be.” Saoirse reached for a jeweled athame, the tip pricking her pinkie until a shimmery bead formed. 

“We are magic and shadow. A fever dream when a soul loses hope.” She turned to the cait-sidhe. “Titania would make us more of a nightmare than the Dark Court. She must be stopped.” And with that conviction, she swirled her finger into the liquid.

Darkness filled the bowl until a face with sharp features stared back at her. There was shock in the face staring back at her. “Jimin, I promise you - I have a good reason for this.” The silver-haired Unseelie gave a stern look, a muscle ticking in his jaw.

“I’m listening, Saoirse.” 

At the moment, that was all she could hope for.

“Eamon.” The Summer Queen had settled back in her domain.  Her hand lifted for greeting, a tall, robust Fae taking that hand. His lips barely touched her skin. “What news do you have for me?” 

The Knight took a knee. “There are but a few more areas that we can search, My Queen. We seem to be making headway as if the maze of that forest is slowly unravelling.” 

She smiled with wicked glee. “I knew you wouldn’t fail me, Eamon.“ She settled back in the throne, the stone dial slowly inching toward her time. “Remember, you must remain unseen. No mortals must spy you in their drunken haze. And that witch should not see you coming. I don’t want to arouse suspicion, understand?” A gentle brow lifted as she looked down to her most trusted knight. 

“As you command, My Queen.” Eamon stood with a flourish before turning on his heel to leave the throne room. 

Titania smiled, her head leaned back against the throne. “Soon. Very soon, witch. I will have you - and you will pay.” 

In the land of Fae, there was a place where Dusk and Dawn lived side by side. For members to cross over before their season, or without invitation, was to risk certain doom. Expulsion from an appointed Court being the worst. The Unseelie were not keen on the Seelie’s exuberant displays. But at this tree, where their worlds were split in half, a different kind of magic existed. 

And this was why Jimin waited anxiously at the appointed time. He felt the air stir as Saoirse appeared in the distance, the cait-sidhe Aithne at her side. He tucked the silver strands of hair behind his ear as she drew closer. “Saoirse, what could be so important -...”

The Spring Queen held up a hand, bade him quiet as she interrupted. “I’m so sorry, Jimin - I...I didn’t know what else to do. It’s Titania.” 

Jimin's face began to contort in protest before he heard that name. His lips flattened as he nodded, allowing her to finish.  Saoirse relayed everything to him. 

The reason why Titania’s brutality grew with each season. The so-called slight against her. The constant search for the member of her court. She twisted her fingers in her own anxiety, turning to Aithne to fill in the rest of the story.

Aithne turned to the Unseelie and levelled him with a heavy gaze. “She had a child with a human.” 

Jimin’s eyes widened. A halfling?

“...she’s WHAT?!” He couldn’t help the volume of his voice.

It had been too many years since any court produced a halfling. They used to find them in droves long ago. But what Aithne said next had Jimin ready to step over the line that separated their worlds.

“That halfling is the mate of a Wolf,” Aithne said with no hint of hesitation or deceit. The cait-sidhe wasn’t lying because Jimin would know. 

He had to take a step away from the boundary - then he began to pace. “That child cannot be brought here.” 

“For more than one reason,” Saoirse added. “Titania would torture them both. We already know that she killed Cardia’s lover. The father of that child. She would do plenty worse if they were both brought here.”

“I have no doubts she would kill Cardia and keep the child in her service, horribly so, until her life expired,” Aithne added solemnly.

“We seem to be skipping over the part where a halfling is the mate of a Wolf,” Jimin spoke between clenched teeth. “Wolves are the most ancient of beings; their magic may surpass ours. We have an agreement with them. We don’t interfere in their affairs. Ever.” 

While the wolves moved about the world like any normal creature, they were busier during the end seasons. The spring and summer were bringing out the pups, shifting their living locations. But their older ancestors, those who’d been around long before? They were harder to find by anyone, let alone each other. Jimin knew of one Wolf in their area, and if his suspicions were correct, Titania was going to start a war on the other side of the veil.

Jimin turned a mercurial gaze toward the cait-sidhe. “It’s Taehyung, isn’t it?”

Aithne’s mouth tilted downward, her gaze lifting toward Saoirse, whose eyes began to widen at the thought. “Aithne, tell me it isn’t?” The cait-sidhe looked toward the ground. “Oh, Aithne. Why didn’t you tell me sooner?” Saoirse knelt down, framing the creature's face with her hands. 

“I’m sorry, My Lady. I...” Aithne’s nose twitched softly as the Queen rubbed along her nose and around an ear. “...after what happened? I thought we had it under control. I thought Titania would have been sated with the mortals. They were so young when…” 

Jimin felt his heart thunder against his ribcage. Everyone knew of Titania’s last hunt - a score of mortals found themselves in the land of the Fae. One of them was the lover of a court member. He was made an example of  - simply because Titania could.  He shared a long look with Saoirse as she comforted the cait-sidhe. 

“Saoirse, I-” Jimin shivered violently before spinning around behind him. Saoirse stood up abruptly, pulling Aithne with her. 

“I thought I said you two could only tryst during Samhain?” A voice seemed to echo from beyond the brush.  “And yet, here you are again.” The Autumn Queen, Fiadh, stood behind him with a look of extreme displeasure. 

Jimin dropped to his knees, head bowed immediately. “My Lady, it’s not what you think!” 

Saoirse’s lips flattened into a straight line. “I would not risk your ire, Fiadh. I was to have Jimin deliver a message to you.” 

“I’m glad of this, little sister.” Fiadh tilted her head with an amused smile. “Because I would hate to have my finest Knight lost from my court.” She tilted her gaze to the top of Jimin’s bowed head. She exhaled heavily as she approached the borderline between their realms. “So, if I heard this sordid tale correctly…” 

Jimin looked up as the confusion caused his brow to crease. Even Saoirse tilted her head slightly. Fiadh looked between the two of them, further amused. “I hear everything, cinn bheaga.” She couldn’t help but chuckle. “When you’re Queen for as long as I have been, you learn a thing or two.” A flick of her wrist had Jimin on his feet. 

“Now, if I heard you correctly,” she continued, “a former member of Titania’s court fell for and bore a child with a human. That human was taken by Titania, and that member escaped. Now, that member and her halfling child are in the human world. And that halfling is the mate of a Wolf?” Fiadh looked between the two of them. 

She then turned her gaze to the cait-sidhe. “That sounds about right, yes?” The creature nodded softly. Fiadh sighed. “Saoirse, I appreciate you coming to warn us. But this puts all the Court in a spot. We cannot interfere with the Summer Court. But, the Court must not involve themselves in the human world for too long a time. We don’t care for Titania’s games, but they have long been entertainment for all. I will admit that lately…” 

“...she’s gone too far, My Lady,” Jimin spoke up. “Her brutality grows, and now we know why. But she won’t care about the halfling being wolf-chosen. That is a fight we cannot afford.” Both Fiadh and Saoirse shared a grave look. 

“No, it is not.” The Autumn Queen’s fingers slid against the point of her chin. “You know the Wolf then, I take it?” This to Jimin, who nodded softly. There was a long moment of silence before she spoke again. “Quietly. The moment Titania’s games go overboard, you contact me immediately.” 

Without saying anything more, Jimin bowed and disappeared. Fiadh turned to Saoirse, “Fear not, little sister. There will not be war…” 

This time.

The heavy silence seemed as if the autumn queen measured her words. “I will handle this, Saoirse. I want you to interfere no further.” She turned to the creature at the side of the Spring Queen. “Aithne, you have permission to see me. I don’t want Titania to make a mockery of Saoirse because of her worry.” 

Aithne bowed her head. “I understand, My Lady.” 

Saoirse frowned, but Fiadh was right in her assumption. They knew that Titania was becoming unstable and just as unpredictable. When Titania took the throne, Saoirse would be nothing more than a High Lady of the Court. 

“Thank you, Fiadh.” She felt her shoulders relax just slightly as the Autumn Queen spun on her heel, an errant wave of her hand as she disappeared. 

Even with all these fail-safes in place, with all these contingencies - why did Saoirse still have a terrible feeling bubbling in the pit of her gut? She turned to make her way back to her own throne. 

Because her time on it was almost up.

Two Human Realm Weeks Later

“All Hail! The Summer Queen, Titania!”

The Seelie gathered en masse, kneeling down as the new queen stood before the throne. Her smile was radiant as the transfer of power concluded. Saoirse knelt before the older queen. “May her reign be glorious and bountiful.” 

Titania smirked softly as she settled back into the grand throne. Her eyes scanned those gathered. Old pawns, new pawns, and those who were willing to do anything to curry her favor. A brow ticked upward as she spotted two Unseelie fae from the dark court. Ah, right - they needed to bear witness to the transition of seasons. Meticulously annoying that lot. She couldn’t help the irritation causing a slight dip in her forehead. 

No matter, they would be long gone before any of her schemes began. 

It was worth noting that Eamon and her knight entourage were missing. She was convincing enough that no one questioned their disappearance. The way time passed in the human realm gave them a needed advantage. 

Mere days would have passed by the time they crossed in the Land of Fae. A cheshire smile spread across her face, her eyes pinching in the corners with the depth of her smile. “My children, it is time to welcome a new season. Little Sister, you have guided us well to this point. Please rest now.” 

Saoirse stood, offering the slightest dip of her head. “Thank you, My Queen. I will now take my rest with your blessing.” The Spring entourage stood bowing to Titania as they departed. 

The crowd parted, heads still bowed, as the two Unseelie Fae moved to the front of the throne. They wouldn’t kneel before a queen that was not their own. Titania sighed softly, if only they weren’t Unseelie. She could see calling on them to warm her pillows. A subtle brow arched as they swept an arm across their chest. 

The silver-haired one, she recognized him, stood with a neutral smile. Ah right. Jimin. Her smile widened. Was that the one that Saoirse fancied? Oh, little sister! You have such good taste. Titania knew better because Fiadh wouldn’t part with her own knights. 

“Your Highness, may your reign be glorious and bountiful.” Jimin bowed his head just slightly. She watched as he could feel Titania’s leering gaze. Amusement danced within herself as she saw him fight to keep the disgust from his face. 

“Ah, Jimin. It’s been so long,” Titania drawled, her voice sickly sweet, “I thank Fiadh’s most precious knight for his blessing on behalf of the Autumn Court.” 

Jimin stepped back so the next representative could step forward. The change in Titania’s face was too quick to hide. She was caught completely off guard by the knight that stepped forward. The Winter Court seldom switched representatives, so this was an interesting development. There were secret glances stolen at the pair from the Unseelie courts. Their physical prowess and stamina were things of legend. It was part of the reason they never participated in Titania’s Summer Games. A few centuries being bested by the opposing court was embarrassing, to say the least. The Unseelie court was fine leaving the Seelie court to their revelry.

Titania rose from her throne, her pupils blown wide with obvious lust as the Winter Court knight stepped forward. “Your Highness, may your reign be glorious and bountiful.” The stranger bowed his head slightly, a dark gaze lifted to the golden queen of summer. 

“My, my, my,” Titania practically drooled as she stepped forward, “and who might you be?” 

The man rose to his full height, his frame impressive. It was easy to see his physique under the light leather attire. The muscles in his chest and thighs seemed to push the limits of the material - and yet it seemed to slide against his skin. Her gaze slid over him from head to toe. 

When he crossed his arms, the sound of the leather groaned in protest. The man was the fairest in her presence. His ears were delicately pointed, the lobes adorned with black rings. His jet-black hair shimmered with blue undertones. She could see them because he tilted his head slightly while she ate him with her eyes.

“Your Highness.” There was something almost curt, a chastise, in his voice. “Forgive my rudeness. I am Jungkook. First Knight of Queen Greeva’s Court.” The way he spoke snapped her out of her visual assault. 

Titania gave a slight cant of her head. “Jungkook, well met.” 

Titania hadn’t lusted after another for quite some time. There was a reason for that; because her jealousy knew no bounds. Once she set her eyes on an individual, they needed to attend to her every whim and wish. To be her plaything was an honor. Or a horror, should she be displeased.

There was one time where someone denied Titania - and no one denied the Summer queen. 

“Please give Greeva my most sincere thanks for sending her most precious to my ceremony.” Jungkook wasn’t one to stand on ceremony with the other Queens. His fealty was to Greeva, she knew this. But she also couldn’t help but to test him. So when Titania started to eye-fuck him, he didn’t hide his displeasure.

“My Queen will receive this blessing, Your Highness.” Jungkook stepped back to join Jimin. They gave their slight bows and departed the throne room. 

Titania’s gaze was hot on their heels.

The Rift at the Fae Wylds

“You’re insane, Jimin.” Jungkook couldn’t keep his disgust at bay. They finally reached the divide between their worlds. “How can you stand being in her presence for so long?” He spat while pacing a path into the grass.

Jimin frowned softly. “It’s a skill I’m not excited to have developed, little brother.” 

He could feel Jungkook’s rage the entire trip back to the rift. Then again, it seemed a strange energy had possessed the area. The wylds were never a place to take lightly. But there was something more dangerous in the land. It was as if the whole realm was on edge - on both sides of the rift.

Jungkook found no humor in Jimin’s response. He respected the Autumn Court Knight for his candor. But his reasons left a bad taste in his mouth. Jungkook, like the rest of the Unseelie, didn't care to bed or mingle with the Seelie Court. He turned as the sound of footsteps broke the silence. 

Ever respectful, Jungkook bowed to the High Lady of the Spring Court. “Saoirse.” His tone had a slight bite, but she graciously brushed it off.

“I apologize for my older sister, Jungkook. I’m sure you’re aware of her...penchant for believing everyone wants her.” She offered an apologetic smile as some of the tension eased from his shoulders.

“We will not speak of this to Greeva.” Jungkook crossed his arms, a stern set to his face. “She would sooner declare war on that harlot and replace her as Queen.” He didn’t care for the look on Saoirse’s face - but he spoke blunt and truthfully. 

Titania’s reputation was known across all the courts. Her flirtatious and loose behavior was a thing of legend. Tales of orgies held in both the court and human lands turned into stories told around fires and at taverns and day-long carriage rides alike. 

Jungkook spat at the ground. “I wouldn’t lay with her if you held hot irons to my balls. Then again, that would be a mercy!” 

Jimin’s shoulders shook as he held back laughter. Saoirse’s mouth fell open at the analogy. “I-I, uhm, again - please pay Titania no mind. She’ll have plenty of bodies to warm her multiple beds. Enough that she can simply dream of you while she -”

“Okay, that’s enough of that!” Jimin put a hand over Saoirse’s mouth to stop the next phrase from leaving her mouth. “I don’t want that image in my head.” Jungkook visibly shuddered with a shake of his head. 

A sharp breeze whipped across the plains, causing the trio to check their surroundings. 

“It feels like the land is on guard.” Saoirse shivered from a sudden chill in the wind.

“It’s been like this for a few days now.” Jimin turned to look at the field that continued on into the realm of the Unseelie. 

“It’s not been this unstable for quite some time.” Jungkook spun around as well, his brow furrowed. “We should leave.” He turned to see the matching concern on Jimin’s face. “We need to report all this anyway. Saoirse, be well.” He offered that slight bow before stepping through the rift. 

Jimin turned to frame Saoirse’s face with gentle hands. “Are you sure you’re going to be alright? You know the games will be afoot shortly.” 

Saoirse smiled, a hand raising to settle atop his own. “Of course, àlainn.” Their fingers interlocked for a moment before another breeze whipped across their faces. “It’s as if we’re not welcome here.” This said absently as she let their hands fall to their sides.

“Return to the city, Saoirse. This is unusual and I’m beginning to think it's unsafe as well.” Jimin took a step away from her, one last look, before he stepped through the rift. 

Saoirse turned to make her way back to the city, the wind kicking up the closer she got to home. When the path leading into the city was more visible, the wind became almost violent. She hiked up her skirts to walk faster because for just a moment, she could have sworn she heard a growl. Intermixed in those violent winds, there was a warning.

There was a sudden silence as she entered the city proper. Just the sounds of people going about their daily lives. Saoirse felt her heartbeat against her ribcage as she turned to look down the road.  An unusual shadow seemed to linger around the road before disappearing. 

The First Knight of her court reached her side, quietly taking her by the elbow. “My Lady?”

She offered a weak smile. “How ill of an omen, Cormac. How ill of an omen.” Leaning on the Knight’s shoulder, she moved almost listlessly as he escorted her to the nearest inn. The land seemed angry, viciously so. They settled at a table as he presented her with a cup of tea.

“My Lady, what omen?” Cormac frowned as he whispered. Even for them to speak ill things when the new queen took the throne is blasphemous. 

“The land, Cormac. The land is angry. So very angry.” Her wrinkles in her brow deepened as she reached for the cup with shaking fingers. “I heard...something. I heard something in the wind.” She had to use both of her hands to hold the cup steady.

Cormac frowned. “My Lady, please... What did you hear? Just tell me what you heard that has you so shaken.”

“I heard a growl, Cormac.” The cup was raised to her lips as she stared at the dark liquid. “I heard the land give a warning.” The knight frowned as she remained transfixed on the cup. “It was for all of us, Seelie and Unseelie alike.” 

The smatterings of light bounced off the surface of her drink causing her to tilt her head oddly. “I saw a shadow, heard a rumbling like a great beast and then nothing.” She took a sip of the bitter liquid.

“My Lady, I-” He offered a deep sigh. “I don’t want to say you’re mistaken. I mean no disrespect, but you’re absolutely sure of what you heard?” Saoirse put the cup down softly. 

“I heard it, Cormac. Real as you and I both. The land is on edge.” She frowned, lifting her gaze to meet his own as he swallowed the lump in his throat. “Do you remember the last time the land was on edge?”

Cormac had been in the service of the Spring court for many millennia. He was as fierce a warrior as any in all the courts. He didn’t spook easily either. But right now, at that very moment, he looked white as a sheet. There was only one time in all his years that the land rebelled.

And it was in the middle of the Summer Games while Titania was on the throne.

“How could I forget? How could anyone forget?” He grimaced. “So it is truly an ill omen, indeed.” His gaze lowered to the top of the table. “What are we going to do?” 

Saoirse looked out the small window nearby. “Tell everyone to stay out of the wylds. Jungkook and Jimin will report to their queens.”

“And the games? What of those in our court who were to participate?” Cormac couldn’t hide his disappointment, because he knew the answer to that.

“I’m sorry, Cormac,” was all she offered, “if what I know now is true, then it will be dangerous for everyone. We will have to standby until…” Her fingers clasped as she left the rest to hang in the air.

Little did Saoirse realize just how dangerous it would be. 

In Heart of the Fae Wylds

The Wylds were vast and green for as far as the eye could see. There was a large clearing of trees just over the field several hundred yards away. Normally the Fae Wyld was teeming with life; animals were making noise and the wind swept over the valley gently. It was hardly this quiet. The only sound that could be heard in that moment was how harshly the wind blew every handful of minutes - causing a sharp chill to tear through the air in a way that was both swift and foreboding.

And the occasional scream.

Cardia’s eyes narrowed as blood rained from the skies, staining the green canvas of the landscape. It was fresh, along with the other spatters of crimson lining the field. A death knell keened over the area, reverberating along the trees and causing the branches to shudder with the final calls of her kin.

Limbs and lumps of flesh tumbled to the ground unceremoniously and the Fae didn’t bat a single eyelash. Instead, she let her arms hang limply at her side as her dark blue mantle whipped around her shoulders and back. She wondered if the onslaught would continue or would the people attempting to capture her would gain some wisdom and cease their pursuit. It would be a fruitless endeavor so long as she remained exactly where she was.

Exactly where she had been for the last several days.

The Fae wasn’t foolish enough to enter the Wylds without paying her due tribute. Yoongi always warned her that the Fae Wylds wasn’t a place for any commoner or noble alike to trek through. Not without paying a price. They would pay it in blood, one way or the other. The Wylds didn’t discriminate.

Not with its tribute and not with its victims.

But the Wylds slept for many centuries. Tamed by time itself. Until she woke it up, that is.

“Cardia!” a voice called from within the trees. She peered out, hoping to match a face to the voice but she already had an idea of who it might’ve belonged to. “Cease this madness!”

She chuckled, brushing her dark hair bangs from her forehead. “I should be saying that to you, Sir Eamon!” 

Her fingers traced the frame of her face, moving to rest on her lips as she continued to smirk at those in the woods beckoning her to stop. The irony was that she hadn’t made a single move against them. Not yet.

The tension in the air was palpable as the Wylds prepared to lash out against any who dared to move against the one who’d paid their tribute. Cardia wasn’t a wicked person by nature. Enough warriors lost their lives and their dismembered carcasses were proof of that. Titania was Queen and there was no sense in her turning her ire toward her or toward the Wylds. A smarter Fae would have remained hidden for as long as possible. A compliant Fae would have returned and their halfling child up to be the servant of their Queen without hesitation.

Cardia was neither a genius nor obedient.

But she was crafty and a strategist. She knew exactly where to hit her enemy in a way that would not only hurt, but would leave a lasting impression. Turning the neutral grounds of Fae territory into an ally was one of said ways to accomplish this.

Regardless of her past discretions against the current Queen, it was clear she had the upper hand.

“If you no longer wish to lose any of your men, Sir Eamon, I would advise you to return to the Queen and deliver my wish to parley.” Cardia sighed as she pivoted on her heels, making her way back to the small cottage she’d built for herself shortly after arriving in the Wylds. “Collect your men and return to the kingdom. Relay my wishes. I will be entering the city in two days’ time.”

Removing a knife from the small bag at her hip, she ran the blade over her palm and let her blood drip into the grass and earth. She closed her eyes, pushing the pain back while squeezing her hand into a fist. They are to collect their people. If they pass this marker I leave on the land, rip them asunder.

The wind howled, whirling through the skies and causing the branches of the trees to flutter against the strength of the gale. The Wylds heard her plea, accepted her blood, and would cease their assault on any trespassers who hadn’t paid their own price.

None would pass Cardia’s marker, lest they lose more than their heads.

The scent of sex seemed to ooze from the windows and openings of the castle. It made him sick to his stomach. Eamon made no attempt to clean the stench of blood and gore from his hands and armor. So when the sudden gust of wind blew open the doors, everyone was taken off guard. Bodies that clung and writhed against others suddenly stopped, and the sound of violent retching could be heard as he walked through the castle hallways. Even some of the lower ranked knights weren’t prepared as he picked up speed. An evenly paced walk turned to a violent stalk toward the queen’s chambers. 

They even had the audacity to remind him - HIM of all people, that the queen’s orgies weren’t to be disturbed by outside matters. 

He leveled a glare that had them shrinking away from him. Just to see the knight that enraged was enough for anybody else he passed to simply get out of his way. People smelled him before he appeared, causing them to scatter as their stomachs churned.

Eamon made it to the archway of the queen’s bedroom. The queen’s moans reverberated through the bedchamber. Bodies moved all over each other in various states of dress. The common link was a half-empty bowl of shimmery golden liquid, on a pedestal, in the middle of the room. 

“EVERYBODY. GET. OUT.”

There was some random lord with his face between the queen’s legs. Moist noises as he dined at her altar, pushing her legs wider to get deeper inside the most hallowed of places. It was an honor to pleasure the queen - it was a privilege to service the queen. 

One should see it as their duty to make sure that her happiness comes first and foremost. Two lady’s groped at her breasts, whispering words of devotion. There were tongues tangled in kisses as Titania threw her head back. Her fingers clutching at the lord’s scalp as he moaned into her sex. Her hips lifted as she tumbled over the precipice of ecstasy. 

Her eyeballs rolled as the two ladies bit and nibbled at her skin. 

“Yes! Yes, Ye-” The endorphin rush was cut short by a booming voice and the smell of blood. 

Her orgasm was ruined. 

Eamon’s face was contorted in dark rage. Even with their status as nobles, no one questioned the Queen’s Knight. The haze of golden nectar disappeared with the smell of blood and innards. They quickly gathered their belongings, rushing and stumbling out of the room. The man looked up the length of Titania’s body, scared to move for fear of disappointing her. But he saw the dramatic change on her face and thought it would behoove him to exit the premises. 

Titania didn’t bother covering herself. She didn’t care if he heard the sound of slick heavy between her legs. Her eyes were a dark cobalt as they remained locked in a visual standoff. It was clear he wanted to speak with The Summer Queen. Not Titania. 

Her voice had lost that light, airy, tinkle she reserved for court. “Eamon. Do you truly dare to interrupt my fun? Even for you, that is a grave crime. I hope you have a goo-” 

Splgorshsplat!

The sound, the sight, and the smell made her eyes go wide and she instantly was sick.

Eamon opened a space right at the foot of her bed. From it fell the body parts of his finest men. Some limbs were broken and tangled in the most odd ways. There was little that could be used to identify who they belonged to. The mass of flesh, rock, dirt and sticks soaked into her bed. She pushed back against the wall at the head of her bed. 

“Cardia wishes to parley. She will enter the city in two days.” Eamon’s face didn’t change. “The Wylds shield her.” He opened a space below that pile of flesh, leaving only the stain on her bed. “I am going to tell everyone to stay out of the Wylds until she enters the city.” 

Titania’s face contorted with rage as she lifted her gaze to him. 

“Your games cost more than what you are willing to see, Your Highness.” There was bitterness in the clench of teeth between words. “No more, I tell you. No. More.” He turned and left her bedroom.

He didn’t look back as he felt the rise of power emanate behind him. He didn’t even blink as he heard a sound of rage and disappointment pouring from Titania’s room. By the time he was at the end of the halls, he could barely make out the sound of a sob. 

He wouldn’t cry for her disappointment, no. He was going to save his tears for those mated to his men. The ones who now would have to figure how, or if, they would live without their life mates. He would even save a little for himself.

So he could mourn the once noble queen he loved - and somehow lost throughout these years. He would mourn the person he should have saved.

And pray someone will be able to save her.

Because he knew it wouldn’t be him.

The Unseelie Court Lands

The world seemed to be tumultuous for everyone in it. Jungkook’s displeasure was apparent with deep creases in his forehead. A shimmer of light flickered across his face as he looked out into the world beyond the city. The shadow that danced in the sky seemed to roll toward them. His fingers dug marks into the merlons at the top of the castle. His arms bulged as he tried to not tear the stone from it’s setting.

“You know that look doesn’t suit you.” A warm-honeyed voice washed over him. “...I never like to see you so vexed.”  

Jungkook’s expression straightened as he turned to drop to a knee, “My Lady. I apologize for showing such a side in your presence.” 

Greeva’s lips tilted up in the corner, briefly, as she emerged from the shadow of an archway. “I wondered where you had disappeared to for such a long time.” The Winter Queen looked out over the expanse of the land. Her gaze lifted skyward to see the same rolling shadow that Jungkook had reported days ago. Her fingers danced across his shoulder causing him to stand. “Has there been any change?”

Jungkook took an extra moment before finally rising. He towered over the diminutive Queen. She wore her casual garb cotton breeches, boots, and layered light tunics. Even in their section of the land, they too were afforded a slight reprieve from the harsh winters. 

“Yes.” A muscle ticked in his jaw before he turned to Greeva. She was small enough to sit on the edge of the grenel, where he was too wide.

Greeva gave him a sidelong glance before turning to look out over the land again. “It’s moving toward the royal city, isn’t it?” There was a shuffle of sound as he leaned against the top most part of the merlon. 

“From what Jimin told me, yes.” His gaze remained on his Queen. “Cardia gave a two day warning, saying she would enter the city of her own volition.” He watched Greeva nod softly.

“So now it's following her right to Titania’s front door.” Her tone was sad, almost melancholy. “Do we know more of her men?” 

Jungkook shook his head, “I’m afraid not. Word spreads that Eamon brought them back in pieces.” Greeva’s face never changed as he continued. “Then he interrupted one of her orgies and dumped those pieces at the end of her bed.”

“She’s always so wrapped up in the power of the throne and her games. She couldn’t even tell, could she?” Greeva’s gaze darkened as their skies returned to normal. It had been a few days since Jungkook returned from the coronation of the Summer Queen. He was frazzled, upset, and concerned at the things he saw in the Seelie lands. 

“No,” he answered softly. Titania couldn’t even tell that Jungkook was already mated. It was a  grave offense for anyone to disregard a mate bond, let alone a Queen to show that level of disrespect.

The quiet rage ate at him for more time than he cared for. But it was Jimin and Fiadh coming to see them that forced him to push it aside. Bringing news from Saoirse that Cardia was in the land of Fae. Giving them the answer to the strange presence that seemed to push at them days ago. Eamon's best men were torn to shreds while the land protected her. 

A slow, satisfied, smile spread across her face. What she would have given to have been a firefly in their midst. The queen tried to hide a chuckle behind the back of her hand. Not for the lost men, no. But for Eamon’s bold and brash tactics. It was a known fact that he loved Titania with all his being. It was strange, yet welcome, to know that even The First Knight of the Summer court could take his queen to task.

“My Queen?” Jungkook watched her compose herself, remaining quiet for a few more moments.

“Would you do that to me, Jungkook?” Greeva turned to ask her Knight. “Could you bring reality to my feet, in hopes I don’t steer our people wrong?” A subtle brow arch as her arm draped across a raised knee. 

“I wouldn’t be worthy of my title if I couldn’t, My Queen.” Jungkook moved closer, obscuring her shadow with his own. “I would take any punishment afterwards - but I would have you see reason. No matter how extreme my display.” 

Greeva felt the warmth of his body trapping her in place, her smile changed. There was a glitter of dusk in her gaze as she turned to him. “Would that be as First Knight? Or as my mate?” Her head rested against a stone setting. 

“Both.” There was no hesitation. There was never a hidden emotion between them. “I’d get through to you, somehow.” They both turned to the sky as the blight moved toward the Seelie royal city. 

“Saoirse said she would reach out with further developments.” Jungkook found himself rubbing against Greeva’s arm, letting the action soothe his irritation. “We are going to have to step in, aren’t we?” 

Greeva watched the nightfall over them. “Yes, Jungkook. I’m afraid so.” 

He frowned watching her turn away from him again. It had been so long since the Land had been given an offering. So long, in fact, they forgot how it felt to be rejected by it. It had been too long since they had felt unwelcome. The tale of Eamon’s small regiment spread like wildfire through the courts and people would remember once again. 

And with thanks to Cardia - the people would never, ever forget.

“Your Majesty,” a knight took a knee before The Queen and the Court, “she’s here.”

Titania smiled gleefully, a dainty wave of her hand bid the knight to rise. “Bring her straight to the dungeons! She will not get a chance to prance through these halls.” 

Eamon, Cormac, and Saoirse managed to keep their faces neutral. The Queen clapped her hands rapidly. “My faithful subjects, prepare yourselves! For we are to celebrate the return of one of our dear sisters!”  

The Fae had long lives and long memories to boot. So when the rumor spread that Cardia had been spotted in the city walls, the city came alive with gossip. As Cardia’s name spread from one end of the city to the other, a crowd began to muster. Because some could scarce believe she had returned. Let alone remain unescorted on the way to the royal court.

Eamon shifted from Titania’s side, a glum look on his face. A sharp snap of fingers had him turn around, confused. “No, Eamon. You will stay with me.” The Queen decreed.

He looked ready to protest, but a barely perceptible nod from Cormac changed his mind. Titania stood, letting her fingers danced along his arm. “I have special preparations for her. You have lost enough. I have entrusted one of our finest to handle this task.” 

She did a whirling dervish down the short steps to from the throne. “Everyone stay here! Drink, drink! For soon, I will return to bring our sister back into our ranks.”

Titania smiled at the sad look on Saorise's face. “Little sister, fear not! All will be made right! I must go prepare myself!” The chimes of giddy laughter followed Titania out of the throne room.

She sped through the archways to her rooms. “Come to your Queen!” Titania laughed as she stripped herself of clothing. The half-fae contingent of men and women that were her servants gathered quickly.

“Take your time, my pets. Tonight shall be for revelry,” she declared as she licked her lips while a heated bath of flower petals was pushed into the room.

Titania’s servants spent eight agonizing hours seeing to her needs. They rubbed her body and stroked her ego until the throes of her orgasms could be heard through the castle. 

By the time she was actually dressed, adorned, and sparkling to her satisfaction  - a young knight eager for approval sought her out.

The exhausted servants, cleaned up quickly, began moving the tub and soiled linens from her room.

“Speak,” Titania stared down at the knight who was tasked with Cardia's special accommodations.

“My Queen,” He huffed softly, exhaustion apparent in the drop of his head. “As you commanded. She was taken to the dungeons. She was stripped, lashed until she lay weakened. Then we tossed the water upon her. The brands were threatened but never used. Thicker leather straps were used until she seemed weakened again.”

Titania listened to every sordid detail, biting into her lip as her arousal peaked again. Her lashes fluttered as she savored everything.

“…she fought hard not to pass out.” The knight finally finished.

“She what?” Titania’s mood changed immediately. “Never mind. It’s fine. You’ve done splendid work.” She placed a fingertip under the knight's chin.

She leaned down and kissed him thoroughly. He would have thought she was his mate by how much heat seared between their lips. “You will receive a full reward later.” 

The promise in her eyes made his knees weak. So much so that he stayed on them well after she left her room.

Titania made quick pace to the dungeons, too excited to even use her magic. Every step was savored for this grand finale. It played out in her mind: Cardia beaten, desperate for her forgiveness. She licked her lips again as the guards stepped aside.

“Caaarrrddiia! My darling! Are you ready to return to me? Are you ready to be at my side?” she spoke cheerily, her hands clasped behind her back.

She began dancing toward the battered, bruised, and bloodied form of a woman dangling from the chains.

“Tell me, sister. Fill my ears with the words I have so longed to hear.” Titania tilted her head, just so. A Cheshire smile on those glossy lips, but malice in her eyes.

What she hadn’t expected, however, was the clear look of defiance sparkling within the depths of the former Summer Court Lady’s eyes. She may have been physically beaten and battered, but it was clear that her spirit was anything but. The Fae lifted her head a little higher, her glare giving Titania pause.

“I refused you once many years ago. In retaliation, you bewitched my mortal husband and sent him to his death in the Wylds. My family was hunted down and tortured - some ending their own lives for having their magic stripped from them. Despite all the pain and anguish you brought on my household, I was fortunate enough to be blessed with a child, our child, growing within my womb.” Cardia’s eyes narrowed a measure. “I fled the Seelie Court and survived in the Human World. I sacrificed everything to raise my beautiful daughter so that she could live her life on her own terms. I swore that I would protect her and her choice to live the way that she wished, whatever wish that may be.”

And then Titania saw it. A smile. Her smile. It was radiant and borderline deadly. The Seelie Court’s current queen wasn’t sure what to make of this sudden expression. She should’ve been outraged but it was clear that Cardia would be unhindered by the elder Fae’s ire.

“So if you believe, even for a second, that I would return to this place only to give up my daughter to a life of servitude as some scullery maid and bow my head in remorse or ask for your forgiveness, then you are sadly mistaken.” Cardia’s grin grew wider. “I came back to tell you that you will leave both my daughter and me alone. You will forget I ever existed as a member of this court and if you ever entertain the thought of forcing either me or my daughter into these lands against our wills, I will burn this place to the ground! And if you kill me where I stand, I will make sure the Wylds themselves spread into this realm...AND CHOKE THE VERY LIFE OUT OF THIS KINGDOM!”

No! No, no, no! NO! This wasn’t what was supposed to happen! This was nothing like she planned?! Titania stared with mouth agape at Cardia’s unflinching rage. Her hands balled at her hips and she considered it. She, for just a hot second, actually considered killing Cardia. It would be over quickly, and she would have that daughter at her feet within the span of a day.

But, Titania’s fate was sealed with her words. Because the strongest sacrifice one can make was their own life. So if Titania were to strike Cardia down, the whole kingdom could be destroyed; wiped from the lands of Fae with but a whisper. 

Titania’s eyes were suddenly a gold-flecked crimson. If she could end it quickly? Yes, if she could end it quickly! “How dare you! I offer you everything and still, STILL you deny me!” She could end it quickly, she was sure of it. Cardia wouldn’t have a moment but to blink! 

Titania surged forward as if she was going to call the other woman’s bluff. The Summer Queen was fully prepared to risk the entire kingdom. She raised her hand and suddenly felt weightless. The room spun in all directions before she connected with the wall. She squeezed her eyes shut as she waited for the world to right itself. There was a soft groan as she slid down to the floor.

At the same time, Cardia’s chains snapped - but there were two sets of hands gently lowering her to the ground. Jimin and Saoirse each stepped under an arm, letting the woman lean her weight on them. They frowned deeply as they looked over her injuries.

“I’m surprised she’s not dead,” Jimin spoke curtly, turning a glare at Titania struggling on the ground. He shifted to Saoirse who seemed just as anxious over Cardia’s injuries. 

“That makes two of us,” a husky voice responded. 

That voice made Titania’s blood run cold. She pushed the hair from her face, ignoring the pain running through every muscle in her body. “Greeva.” The Winter Queen’s displeasure was palpable. “W-where are my manners, Older Sister. It’s always a pl-”

“SAVE IT!” The Unseelie Queen hissed vehemently, causing Titania to flinch. “You were really ready to risk your entire kingdom? For VANITY? YOUR EGO?” The tallest of the queens loomed over Titania and she had never felt smaller.

“I-I wouldn’t! You don’t know what she --” 

“DO NOT LIE!” This time it was Fiadh whose voice rose. “We know everything, Titania. You are lucky you are still breathing right now.” 

Ruined. Ruined. Everything was ruined?! Titania kept her gaze lowered to the ground. She feared if they felt she was scheming that things would be made worse for her. The Unseelie Queens waited for Titania to rise. She took her time, smoothing the grime and dust from her skirts. There was a soft sniff as she clasped her hands in front of her. She kept her eyes on the ground. “I would make amends.” 

“Would you?” It was Greeva who spoke. It was Greeva’s malice crawling along her skin. She felt a fingernail under her chin, raising her gaze to the Unseelie Queen. Her head was turned to the man leaning in the archway. Her brow creased with confusion before the Older Fae filled her vision again. “He’s my mate, Titania.” 

Titania’s gaze flew from Jungkook back to Greeva, her lip quivering. “I didn’t know! I --” Her teeth clicked with the grip on her jaw. 

“It is because of him you still walk. Because I would have stripped you of your powers and left you in the human realm to age and rot.” The grip on her face was released as Greeva stepped away. Titania lowered her gaze faster this time. 

The Unseelie Queens approached Jimin and Saoirse, remorse and disappointment etched in the lines of their foreheads. 

“Cardia,” Fiadh spoke softly, “Saoirse and Jimin will see to your carry. We are so sorry that we did not foresee the lengths Titania would go. She has broken the most sacred of all our laws in multitude against you and yours.” 

“You are welcome to change your court, should you choose. You would be welcome among them all,” Greeva added. “We extend the offer to your kin, Yoongi.” They each looked at each other before the Winter Queen continued. “We also offer our condolences. Aithne has reported that Briarden was murdered in the Wylds. Though not by Titania but by events that occurred due to her actions.” 

Greeva stepped back as Fiadh placed a gentle hand on Cardia’s shoulder. “You are welcome in Fae, without the need of anyone’s permission. But if you are here for any reason other than your will or an express invitation…?” The accent on the last two words caused Titania to flinch again. “Then we’ll need to find a new queen.” 

“We should start getting her healed as soon as possible,” Jimin grunted, shifting the weight of the woman on his shoulders. 

“Come Titania. It’s time to make amends.” Greeva pointed toward the stairs, and Titania had no choice but to move. 

Every step that had been savored going down suddenly felt like a weight from her neck. It caused her body to slump, steps shuffling as she wound her way through the halls. Her knights were shaking in the presence of the Unseelie brigade. Their eyes seemed to fill with something that made her sick. 

Pity. 

They pitied their radiant queen chastised and paraded through the royal grounds. They reached the archway to the throne room. A crowd of people waited quietly, unnerved by the prolonged presence of the Unseelie Court. The Queens moved to stand before the throne. Saoirse gave a look to Jimin who nodded to her to join the rest. He took up Cardia’s full weight, standing off to the side.

“You are not a faeling, Titania. Your transgressions are grave.” Greeva spoke for all to hear. The Winter Queen spoke, her gaze dark as she beheld the gathered populace. “Tell them what you’ve done. Tell them what it will cost them. What it will cost all of us.” 

Titania was shoved forward, her arms pinwheeling as she fought for balance. Their eyes were full of questions and accusations. She swallowed thickly, her voice failing her as she spoke. 

“Louder! So that no one can say they never heard you.” This came from Saoirse, who experienced first-hand the way their home will be forever changed.

Titania looked prepared to say something, but the swelling aura behind her gave her pause. She cleared her throat, her eyes found a spot on the wall. 

And she spoke in earnest, “I, Titania, have failed the Court. I have, in my pursuit of someone – who made known they did not want to be pursued, damaged the land of the fae.”

A collective gasp rose as she continued, “I have broken the most sacred of Court tenets. I..I have at a time when I was not on the throne, sent vassals to the human realm to search for Cardia, against her wishes. I am…responsible for her kin taking their own lives.” Titania could feel the tears of embarrassment welling in her eyes. “And most grievous of all, I have attempted to entice the chosen of another.” 

Her face was hot and flush, wishing to be a speck in the wind, as she finished. “Because of these actions, Cardia was forced to defend herself. And because of my actions, the Land lives once again.” The sound of fear and anger caused her focus to shift. Titania started to back away from the faces that used to adore her. 

Now they called for her flesh to be used to set things right. 

The Autumn Queen stepped forward, and silence washed over the room. “We have heard Cardia’s words. She has again declined Titania’s advances. We hereby declare this matter resolved. Titania knows that Cardia would soon have the Land consume this kingdom than risk the rest of her kin.”

The Winter Queen stepped forward. “So let this be a warning to you all. The land is alive – and it hungers. Resume making your offers in earnest, lest the beast is the least of your worries. And pray that it doesn’t take more than one hundred years for it to sleep once again. This will be your first and only warning.” 

Titania wasn’t sure if that was for the Court, or for her. The other queen’s turned to offer a nod to Saoirse. The Winter Queen turned back to The Summer Queen, “If another person is hurt because of your schemes? We will find a new queen.” 

Titania’s eyes were wide, looking up at Greeva. The utterance of those words, in front of eager noble Ladies wanting a taste, would make things difficult. 

And Greeva knew this. 

The Unseelie Queen’s moved to exit the throne room, their knights and The Spring Queen in tow. Titania felt sick as she flopped on the throne. She felt exposed to the eyes suddenly on her. She knew those looks, each of them filled with a scheme and a lust…for the opportunity.

“Guards! Clear the throne room!” Her voice breaking as she shrieked. It took them a moment too long before Eamon appeared. The knights hurried the onlookers out of the throne room. They closed the doors leaving Titania alone. Eamon’s silent glare was enough to keep any tongues wagging. Not a soul would repeat the crash of dishes and screaming that went on well into the night.

The Hall of the Spring Court

Saoirse closed the door to the suite where Cardia rested. Jimin grunted as he wiped his brow. She let her fingers dance across the width of his shoulders. “I couldn’t have done this without you.” He smirked at her, “I mean it, Jimin. None of this would have been possible if you hadn’t heard me out.” 

He leaned into her, letting their foreheads touch. This was the longest they had been in each other's presence for some time. Although she wished he would press her into the nearest wall – the healing space was a sacred space. 

“You’re a brave woman, Saoirse. Titania could have made things difficult for you.” His hand brushed the hair from her face, causing her to smile softly.

“She still could.” Her smile was slight, reaching up to intertwine their fingers. “One day.”

 Saoirse’s gaze lingered on their hands. Jimin gave a sad smile in return. It had been too long since the last time a Seelie and Unseelie had been mated. 

Yet here they were, breathing in each other’s atmosphere. Jimin’s soft sigh made her frown. “I know,” she said, “you should probably go. Fiadh has been gracious letting you stay as long as you have.” 

He nodded, taking a step back from the Spring Queen. “I’ll be back in three days to escort Cardia toward the crossing point.” Jimin’s hand slid across her waist, pulling her flush against him. The kiss was quick, hard, and done as he turned away abruptly.

Because he couldn’t stay but had he lingered for a moment longer...

Saoirse tongue slid across her bottom lip with a frown. She sighed, patting her face before opening the door to Cardia’s room once again.

As she entered, she saw Cardia starting to sit up. Before she was able to put all of her weight onto her arms, Saoirse was quickly at her side to help her. The former Lady of the Summer Court gave a tight-lipped smile as she allowed her to administer aid.

“You needn’t push yourself so hard, Cardia,” she urged while fluffing a few more pillows against her back, “take all the time you need to rest.”

Cardia shook her head, her complexion a shade lighter than when she’d previously remembered seeing her. “No. I mustn’t linger here. I need to return home.”

“In time, you stubborn Fae,” Saoirse said while smiling, “you nearly died.”

“And I would’ve taken this kingdom with me.”

The grave tone in Cardia’s voice gave Saoirse pause. It was frightening to know the lengths this woman was willing to go to protect her child. It was even more terrifying to think that Titania actually considered bringing this into reality for her own ego. Unimaginable is what it was.

Saoirse rested her hand on Cardia’s shoulder, giving her fellow Fae a squeeze of comfort to reassure her that all would be well. “Rest a little bit longer. I’ll have someone send Jimin a message that you will be leaving for the Veil at dusk.”

“Thank you, Saoirse,” Cardia replied, placing her own hand over hers, “thank you for everything.”

The Wylds were alive again. All thanks to Cardia’s sacrifice. No court, Seelie or Unseelie alike, would dare question her devotion to her daughter ever again. Not if they knew what was good for them.

The Veil Between Fae and Human Realms

Cardia’s steps were ginger and measured as Jimin and his small regiment escorted her through the Fae Wylds. Blood was tossed to the expanse of flora and fauna to satiate its hunger and it recognized the one who made the pact with it originally. A part of her felt a small ounce of remorse for having reawakened that unforgiving landscape. But there was no sacrifice she wasn’t willing to make to ensure her daughter’s well-being. In time, the land would quiet itself and return to its peaceful slumber.

She could only pray that there would not be another need for such a heavy sacrifice in the future.

“You almost doomed us all, you daft woman,” Jimin said suddenly, his voice slicing through her thoughts as he held her up by her waist.

Despite the heavy meaning behind his jab, Cardia let out a weak chuckle. “Yes, well, I believe there is nothing I wouldn’t do to protect the one that is most precious to me.”

“You know,” he began, making sure to help her over a fallen branch on the pathway, “you could always return to the Fae lands. Your brother and your daughter are welcome. You would have your choice of courts to be a part of. You don’t have to continue to live in squalor in the Human Realm.”

“Is that what you think it is? Living in squalor?” Cardia scoffed. “I would much rather do that than return home only to have my daughter subjected to a life of servitude.”

“She wouldn’t --”

“She would, Jimin. Don’t patronize me.” Her tone was sharp. “Our laws are also part of a long standing tradition. I knew the price I would have to pay when I chose a human as my mate. I won’t allow my daughter to live like that because of my choices.”

She heard him sigh and knew that the discussion was over. Cardia had made her choice. She would have to live with it for the rest of her life. Her beautiful daughter, however, would be free to live her life on her own terms. As penance, Cardia would never fall in love again. She chose to live alone, mateless, for the rest of her days. 

Because in her heart of hearts, the loss of her beloved husband was still a fresh scar on her very being.

“Well, if you ever need anything, don’t hesitate to reach out. You’re still one of us.” She looked up to see the warm expression now settled over Jimin’s face. “You and your kin.”

“Thank you, Jimin.” Her eyes turned back to the path ahead of them and she realized that they were very close to reaching the veil. “I will remember your words.”

“Farewell, Lady Cardia.” Jimin offered a smile as she crossed the veil. 

For those who are curious about the terminology being used in the story, it is a form of Irish/Gaelic, and their meanings are as follows: Deirfiúr - Sister deirfiúr bheag - Little Sister cinn beag - Little Ones àlainn - beautiful

♡ welcome to ficscafe! below are guidelines for both fic recommendations and writers that want to apply to our network.

Keep reading

OFFICIAL POST.

K-DINER is a network with a retro-futuristic diner aesthetic, for all K-Pop content creators to promote their works. 

Our aim is to foster a sense of community and develop lasting bonds among our members. With events such as monthly challenges and frequent prompts, there are many opportunities to let your creativity show!

OWNER: @hwanung

MANAGER: @maatz

STAFF: @atinykidult @kimjoongs​ @hwaven @roshnis

Before you get started, here are some GENERAL GUIDELINES.

You must be following this network before you apply.

Reblog this network post before you apply.

You do not have to be part of a specific fandom to join! As long as you create K-Pop related content, anyone’s welcome!

For smut, in order for us to reblog your work, you must specify there is explicit content and it has to be under a “Keep reading” cut.

If and once you get accepted, make sure to put #kdiner in the first five tags so we can reblog it.

Rules and guidelines, as well as the application form, can be found here. Want to affiliate? Go here.

Have a safe trip across the final frontier, & we’ll see you on the other side!

Keep your eyes on this space. Something exciting is dropping at 8:00 pm (CST) tomorrow, June 4. 👀

@kingsuckjin @hesperantha @hauntedlilies @megahwn @thebiasrekkers (Tomi) @ddaengyoonmin

Check out this Greek/Roman mythology collab! There are still plenty of spaces left! Come and join the fun!

𝔊𝔬𝔡𝔰 𝔄𝔪𝔬𝔫𝔤 𝔘𝔰 ℭ𝔬𝔩𝔩𝔞𝔟

Time is a song of remembrance.

A song is sung to a time when the very breath of the wind carried a spirit. A song sang Back to a time when the harvest’s bounty was a celebration unto a name, where powerful beings unseen by human eyes heard every pain and sound of jubilation.

Long ago, in the faraway land of ancient Greece, there was a golden age of powerful Gods and Goddesses and their extraordinary tales. High atop Mount Olympus, shrouded in clouds lay the palatial grounds of the Olympian Gods and Goddesses. While deep below beyond the river Styx lay the realm of Hades, the home of the Gods of the Underworld, guarded by Cerberus and final resting place of souls.

These tales are now captured in pages, books, and scraps of ancient text. But what if there was a chance? What if the subtle energy floating in the air meant something more?

What if there could be - Gods Among Us?

Here in this collab we will focus on the major and minor deities of Greek Mythology. Will you hear a voice that flings you back to an unknown era? Or will you wish so fervently to be heard that you stir something that’s long been sleep?

Gods Among Us Event Schedule:

 Applications open: 06.08.2021

 Applications close: 08.01.2021

 Synopsis drop: 08.15.2021

 Posting begins: Anytime after sign up

 Posting ends: 08.29.2021

 Masterlist drops: 8.30.2021

Requirements:

 Anyone can join! All ages are welcomed, as long as you’re a writer or content creator. (AO3 content creators are also welcome to join!)

This is a multi fandom collab.

You may only choose one idol for this collab (this is may change once the sign ups close)

All content should include one KPOP girl/boy group member in some way and some form of Greek God/Deity.

 2k is the minimum word count, with no limit on how much you write or how many fics.

 Oneshots, two shots, and series are permitted as long as everything is completed by the event deadline.

 Pairings accepted: mxr, mxoc, mxm, or platonic

 If you are under the age of 18, smut is prohibited. No exceptions!

Must be willing to join discord server!

The list of gods/deitys are here 

These are the following groups you can write for in the collab (there will be three slots for each member per group, excluding any members the admins choose to write for):

Boy groups: 2PM, A.C.E., Ateez, BTS, CIX, EXO, GOT7, Monsta X, NCT (all units), Oneus, Seventeen, SF9, Shinee, Victon, Vixx

Girl Groups: Apink, Blackpink, Brave Girls, CLC, Dreamcatcher, Everglow, Exid, G-Idle, GWSN, Itzy, Loona, Mamamoo,  Red Velvet, SNSD (Girls Generation), Twice 

To join:

Like and reblog this post.

Read the rules.

Apply here.

Rules for Content:

When it comes to posting your work, please make sure the format below is before the ‘read more’ cut:

o   pairing(s): (mxm, mxr, mxoc, no pairings, etc.)

o   genre(s): (AUs, fluff, angst, smut etc.)

o   disclaimers/warnings: (disclaimers/warnings:none /or NSFW content)

o   word count

Trigger & Smut Warnings and Disclaimers need to be clearly stated before the ‘read more’ cut! We will not be accepting noncon or dubcon, no matter the warnings stated!

Any stories containing topics that are considered taboo (sexualizing minors, incest, animal abuse, pedophilia, glorifying self-harm or mental illnesses and abuse in any form, etc.) will NOT be accepted and will result in your termination from the event.

All written work that is over 500 words or includes NSFW content must be under a “Read More” cut!

Credit beta readers, gfx makers, etc., if they’ve assisted you. If you use gifs/graphics, or any other content belonging to someone else, make sure to credit the content creator correctly (if they have given you permission!). Plagiarism WILL NOT be tolerated and will result in your removal from the event!

If you’re posting to AO3, create a new text post with a link and follow the above format.

Tag your work using #godsamongus

Discord(Mandatory):

Once accepted, an admin will send you an invite to the server so you can keep up with announcements and chat with your fellow content creators about your works!

General Rules for Event:

This applies to the actual event, and the discord server: Disrespect, harassment, bullying to any member of this event will not be tolerated. We want to be kind and respectful to everyone. If you ever feel uncomfortable, please reach out to one of the admin, and we will handle the situation accordingly. In the discord, we will keep all conversations on the appropriate level, which means that if there’s anything that you may have to say, please use the spoiler to conceal those terms. Please remember and be advised that this event will involve minors. With that being said, please be sure to keep your conversations in the appropriate channels. Any NSFW topics are prohibited in the SFW chats. password= Peisinoe. Lastly, if you feel uncomfortable with the discussion in discord, please use the safeword Soteria. All conversations must stop at that point, and the subject must change. We want all of our participants to feel safe.