#ALSO i know that the relief is the fae magic to be clear

[basket-of-loquats]

it's so interesting to me that frost says that being ridded of the joy that comes with his memory of gricko giving him hootsie's signal whistle is a relief. like you have someone who is taught (whether by the sorcerer enclave or by his own experience) that logic should supersede emotion all the time and that you cant have emotions bog you down. and then he meets gricko and gricko is his Friend, his Only friend, and he feels real true happiness for the first time in who knows how long except he's not supposed to feel that anymore. he's not supposed to feel joy like this, or affection, or whatever it is gricko makes him feel. and when he gets relieved of that emotion by surrendering the memory to be taken as the toll, it's relieving. idk it reminds me a lot of how like growing up queer and freaking out when you have a crush on someone of the same gender and then being like relieved if you lose feelings because oh thank god, i don't have to feel that conflict anymore, i can follow the "right" path, the one i'm supposed to

[tadpolesonalgae]

Can’t Bring Myself To Hate you — Part 21

Azriel x Third-Oldest-Archeron-Sibling!Reader

a/n: please forgive spelling errors, I’m still coming out of my illness. I’d also wanted to write more but I suppose it’ll help to have a solid starting point for the next chapter! I can’t believe it’s been a year since the first part of cbmthy went up.

warnings: likely spelling errors; Deliah; reader’s miserable life

word count: 5,738

-Part 20- -Part 22-

——————————————————————————————————————————————

“I know it’s difficult, but I urge you to tell your family as soon as you are able.”

Madja’s round, soft brown eyes are imploring as she looks into you, and you dip your head.

“I will,” you mumble, frowning into your lap. “I just want time to process it. Besides, you don’t know that for sure—it’s just a theory.”

“A theory that I wouldn’t tell you unless I thought there was a high or definite chance of it happening,” Madja counters, passing you the glass of water. You drink reluctantly. “I know it’s a lot, and it’s sudden… How are you coping?”

You set the glass down when you’ve had enough. “Silver lining, right?”

————

Madja’s earlier question has been echoing through the chambers of your mind all morning. Nagging for an answer until you’ve no choice but to pause, and think. A bench sits overlooking the Sidra, and you take it, choosing to seat yourself for the duration of the thoughts.

How are you coping?

Because you weren’t a while ago. That’s what got Azriel bedridden, although he seems to be on the mend. So, how are you coping now? You can barely feel the gloves around your hands, even when your curl them to scrape the fabric against your skin. There’s nothing more than a slight pressure.

To have no solution for the pain, that you’re permanently damaged… Permanently imperfect, even as a fae. You could have had something. Could have been like Nesta, wielding her Cauldron-Made magic. How stupid of you.

————

His door looms before you, the windows empty and the front garden still. Taking a deep breath you raise your hand to a fist, delivering three muffled knocks to the wood panelling, gloves softening the thuds. You take a step back, and wait. Glance about the small entry, the vines crawling up either side the door, the glass lantern hanging above your head.

The garden is dying, life slowly receding, pulling back in on itself to protect from the descent of winter. Another two weeks and the transition will be clear. Already frost is often crisping leaves and slicking cobbles, ice gleaming over the lip of windowsills and thick rolls of fog floating up from he sidra, basking the city streets in a deep cloud-cover. Sometimes it’s so thick you can’t tell where the edge of the canal lies, and you make a point to offer a generous margin of error. You’re not sure you’d have the will to fight the terrible shock of icy water or the wit to navigate, blind, through the thick mists back to a lowered platform.

You’ll stick behind the guard rails, for now.

Metal scrapes, a latch clicks, the door creaks open. A heavy, golden eye peers out from the relative darkness.

You push a smile to your mouth, weighted, subdued, tentative. “Hi, Bas.”

Golden eyes pause, taking you in from an almost passive standing point. His lips don’t shift like you’d become accustomed to, no half-amused smile curving his familiar mouth and no sweep of warmth across his face. Rather, his lips tighten, as if regretting having made acquaintance with a creature with needle sharp teeth that hook into skin and cling to flesh as it feeds. You’ll stay out of his life if he wants you gone.

You can manage to give him six months of space.

Bas sighs, his broad chest briefly deflating as his shoulders slope and the ice lessens to frost. The door opens wider and an ember of mild warmth begins to glow faintly somewhere in your chest. You take care not to show the visible relief—he hasn’t forgiven you, he’s just opening up for conversation. Maybe now he’ll tell you to stay away, maybe now he’ll tell you not to disappear again, maybe now he’ll tell you you’re forgiven, maybe now he’ll forgive you but he doesn’t want around.

You shake off the thoughts like a sparrow shaking off raindrops from her narrow, nimble wings, fluttering her feathers to rid the dampness from her warm body.

Inside the fire is lit, crackling in the hearth. Dried rosemary and herbs still hang in bunches from the thick wooden beams of the ceiling, patchwork quilts still hang over the back of plush armchairs, small, plump pillows still tucked into either end of the sofa and you sit yourself near one arm, knowing Bas usually takes the armchair to the left of the fireplace. Not directly in the way of the radiating heat but close enough to be warmed by the rolling waves as they spill out into the low-ceilinged living room. You meet his golden eyes. “How’ve you been?”

“Good.” Bas nods his head. “Been doing some thinking. Sure you have too, yeah?” He takes his seat but doesn’t lean back into the cushioning. Instead he braces his forearms on his knees, feet shoulder-width apart and the fire reflects in his strong, golden eyes.

You lick your lips, placing your gloved hands in your lap. “I’m sorry for using you like that.”

Bas cocks a brow. “Just jumping straight into it, huh. No preamble.”

“I understand if you’re angry with me. If you’re upset with me. I feel that you’ve been there for me a lot…more that I can say. Through a lot of stuff I haven’t been brave enough to talk about, too.” Your eyes are hot on their surface, burning from the heat of the crackling fire but you blink away the heat, swallowing. “I was in a bad space, when I left. And I wasn’t thinking right.”

Bas snorts. “You weren’t thinking at all.”

He pushes off from his knees, settling himself at last back into the armchair. Long legs stretch out over the thick, patterned rug, arms crossing behind his head and legs crossing at the ankle.

“I’m sorry, Bas.” You tell him, firmly. Looking into his fierce gaze. He’s always been more straightforward. You’ve managed to be more straightforward with him, too, and it’s been a perk of your…friendship. “Will you… Can you forgive me?”

Silence hangs in the air, his features unmoving, eyes holding that fierce glint in their golden irises. Seconds tick by and neither of you say anything. The room grows hotter, denser, and you shift in your seat. It’s sweltering. It’s been a minute.

Your eyes lower and you nod your head. “Okay.”

You rise from your seat, straightening out your skirts, unsure whether your cheeks are burning from humiliation or the fire. “Thank you for hearing me out,” you tell him, nodding your head once before finding your own way out.

“You aren’t going to ask for my side?” Bas calls from his seat, bringing you to a halt. You turn, looking at the outline of the back of his head, the muscles in his arms are tense and his fingers are pushing into his skin. You keep to the entryway, unsure whether he’s being sincere or whether he’s waiting for an argument. You’ve never known him to be manipulative, but he’s always been ready for a brawl in the past. Bas turns his head, and piercing golden eyes bore into you.

“What’s your side?” You ask, softly.

Bas snorts and makes a sharp gesture with his hand, telling you to sit. Your lips purse but you follow, returning to the seat but this time discarding an outer layer leaving you in a top and skirts. You’re here for a conversation—not a brief exchange where nothing’s said.

“Did you even listen to me, last time you were here?” Bas asks. “Where did you go? Who did you meet? Why did you think it was a good idea to just—” He bites off the ending, his frustration and anger bleeding out. His arms brace themselves back on his knees, body hunching over as his brows narrow, exhaling in a harsh hurry. “Talk to me. You got to talk to me instead of just vomiting up a bland fuckin’ apology like that. ‘I’m sorry for using you like that’? ‘I was in a bad place’?” He stares at you, hard. “Are you kidding me?”

“I- What do you want me to say, Bas? I’m sorry for upsetting you. I’m sorry for making you angry. I’m sorry for not telling you where I was going-”

“‘I’m sorry for making you feel like shit, Bas'. ‘I’m sorry for not only leaving and not telling you anything, but also then coming back and not telling you anything either, Bas’. ‘I’m sorry for creating something private and safe and then letting everyone in to tear it to shreds, Bas’.” Golden eyes gleam with heat, boring into you. His voice is hoarse when he says, “Those would have been a good fuckin’ start.”

You lick your lips, trying to buy yourself time to comprehend the words he’s spat out. Beats pass, but you have no idea what to say. You’re sorry. You regret the way things happened. They won’t unfold like that again. It all feels so insufficient when his eyes are so fierce on their surface but the tears are making them glassy. “You were my fuckin’ treasure,” he rasps. “And you fuckin' walked out without a word.”

“Bas I’m sorry,” you whisper. Heat prickles your eyes, “I just needed to get out.”

Bas laughs a wet laugh, “Fuck off with that.” His thumb and middle finger span across his eyes, bracing his temples. “You know I stopped seeing other people?”

Silence hangs in the air. Blood cooling in your veins.

Bas laughs. “Stopped drinking after you showed up, stopped sleeping around as much, started getting to bed on time. Started talking with ma again. Started to get better after pa-” He chokes off, a wet droplet breaking on the rug far below. He rubs his eyes shaking his head. Golden eyes gleam in the firelight. “You were good,” he whispers, “a good thing.”

Sorry doesn’t even begin to cover it. You know what it’s like to feel you aren’t good enough to be trusted. You know how it hurts.

You stand quietly from the sofa, gathering your cloak and scarf. Pause when you pass him—he doesn’t look up, keeping his head cast down, staring at the rug. Your palm settles over his shoulder and you squeeze once, firmly. I’m sorry.

You’re in the doorway, the salty citrusy coastal air mixing with the warm rosemary of his interior when he calls for you once more.

“We’ll be moving to Winter soon,” Bas says through his raw throat. He swallows, hard jaw working. “Ma thinks it’ll be good for us—to visit pa’s Court. Reconnect with the magic there.” In one movement that exudes far too much boyish embarrassment for you to bear, he dries his eyes, rolling his shoulders and standing straighter. “Thought I’d let you know.”

“You’re leaving?” You can hardly hear your voice. Bas shrugs but the edges of the gesture are too sharp to be natural. “Guess Night Court isn’t working for us.” He licks his lips. Nods his head. “I wish you well, from here.”

————

The sunlight is watery, offering an edge of warmth but you’re in a daze. You’re not even sure you know where you are in the city. Just started walking and didn’t stop, feet moving mindlessly over the cobbles, carrying you through streets and alleys, down roads and narrow tracks between shops. With the smell of food you’d guess you’re near a restaurant zone, but…

He’s moving. All the way south to the Winter Court.

Will you be able to visit? Will he even want you to visit? You can admit you’re not the most well-versed on Court politics, nor the most caught up on current affairs, but it doesn’t take much to know the Night Court isn’t a Prythian favourite after the fifty years the High Queen ruled with Rhysand at her side.

You look around Velaris, the street you’re on. Did it look like this during her reign? Before? Did it change during the attack that took so many lives, Bas’ father among them?

Inside your chest your heart is flittering too fast, fluttering against your ribcage, pulsing in your throat sporadically. Where are you? None of it looks familiar. A breeze blows and you catch the scent of the Sidra, somewhat salty, somewhat briny, but crisp. Dampness dredged up from an open-mouthed estuary far from here. It’s only a few streets away, and a trail of cold relief slithers down your spine as you recognise the canal. If you follow the water upstream you’ll probably find your way back to a spot you know—you’ve been heading mostly downhill, after all.

————

Rita’s

That’s a name you recognise. You’re nearby, back in a familiar area at least. Although being lost had been a temporary relief from the tempest tipping and turning inside of your, raging emotion crashing on your banks and you’re unsure what to do with all of it. Even having lost a lot of feeling in your hands you can tell they’re numb. More numb than usual anyway, and the cold is spreading to the rest of your body. You seem to remember the others having spoken about it in a way to suggest its busiest hours would be after dark but you wonder if they might be open during midday—just a familiar place to step into and warm up for a bit.

Well, it’s not exactly familiar. Come to think of it, you’ve only really heard Mor speak of it as someone who’s been inside. It didn’t seem to be a frequent spot for the others.

You squeeze your eyes shut and pray she isn’t inside.

As soon as you step foot within the establishment you feel the warmth on your face, washing over the frozen tip of your nose and the nipped-at skin of your cheeks, lips probably chapped and dry from the cold. The lights are on—strung up around the ceiling, hanging from wall to wall so they look like hundreds of yellow-bottomed fireflies. Paintings hang from the walls, stacked closely together and rimmed in what looks like gold, carefully crafted to carve into swirls at the corners. Pictures of flowers and bouquets, horses and riders with neat hair and long legs, dappled shade on a pair of shoes. Parted lips painted a dusty rose.

There are a few fae about the place—there seems to be a part of the large interior sectioned off for games and socialising, pool tables set up with a piano in the corner and a violin laying on its top, a guitar against the piano stool. Plush settees are dotted about the place, mauve and maroon leather with a healthy sheen beneath the glowing lights.

You make your way over to a counter that looks like a bar, nervously approaching the female behind the stand. “I’m sorry—is it fine for me to stay inside for a little bit? I got lost and-” But she’s already nodding understandingly and you’re struck dumb by her beauty. Dark brown hair that snarls about her round face, healthy and rich, full lips stretching into a welcoming smile as she clops to your side of the bar, ushering you over to take a seat on one of the sofas.

“What can I get you? Hot water? Tea? Whiskey?” Her eyes are full and dark, round and pretty as they watch you. “You’re such a small thing! What were you doing out in the cold all on your own?”

“I- sorry. I don’t have any money on me at the moment… I’m after some warmth is all. Sorry,” you say, holding your hands up and shaking them gently as though metaphorically pushing her away. But her smile doesn’t falter for a second, leaning her weight to one hip and folding her arms over her slim chest, “And I asked what can I get you? You’re half-frozen, I should dip you in candle wax!”

“Oh, I-” You swallow thickly. “Then, could I have some tea? If it’s not a bother?”

“Stay right there and don’t wander,” she smiles, nodding her head, “I’ll be back in a moment. Hang tight and don’t freeze.” Then she’s clopping away, heeled feet clicking over the polished wooden floors, thuds muffling when she passes over a rug.

You blink away your surprise, adjusting yourself to Rita’s interior. It’s nice: warm and welcoming. You lay your hand in your lap, peering at the dark green fabric of your gloves, self-consciously fiddling with the fingers. Maybe if they become frost-bitten they’ll turn stiff and fall off. At least you wouldn’t have to deal with their ugliness anymore, but it’d still be all up your arms.

It’s not long before the server is returning, a pinkish ceramic mug cupped in her palm, taking care not to spill anything as she passes it over to you. “Careful not to burn your tongue, it’s piping hot,” she warns with a smile, “unless you’re frozen stiff. Then drink away!”

You manage a grateful smile, murmuring thank-you after thank-you until she’s trotted back to her place behind the counter, a new couple of fae having also come in from the cold. You wait impatiently for it to cool, gently blowing on it from time to time but it’s difficult to hold through your gloves and you have to be careful not to spill any on yourself, or worse, any on the lovely rugs. Raising the mug to your lips, you take a small sip but it’s still scalding. How did she even make a cup of tea this hot? You’ve waited for it to cool.

Sighing to yourself, you shift on the sofa, making to lean back against the cushioning then thinking better of it when you remember your layers. It would be nice to remove them, but you won’t be stopping for long—just waiting to warm up. Until you’re certain blood has returned to your fingers and toes. You try the tea again but only succeed in scorching your upper lip. You’re so preoccupied with willing your tea to cool that you fail to notice the fae approaching from the far end of the room.

A body fills the space beside you and you’re pulled from your thoughts. The female’s lips are a bright slash of blood red, white teeth glittering inside her mouth as she offers a smile. You give a polite smile in return, thinking nothing of it as you return to gently blowing on the steaming liquid.

“You’re new here…”

You blink, then turn back to the female. Her eyes are so dark they’re almost black. Not a suctioning void of darkness, but more like a peaceful midnight or experiencing a restful sleep. They’re enlivening, not draining. “Yes…I heard someone speaking about this place so when I recognised it I thought I might come in to warm up,” you reply, shifting in the seat so you’re facing her a little more.

Black silk trousers cover her lower half, a sheer, silky band hugging her slim waist before flaring into wide, sweeping hips. On her top is a sleeveless, rouge, lace-covered shirt that hugs her full breasts, exposing a sharp but surprisingly deep V of moon-pale skin. Around her collar bones sit pretty pearls, matching the ones pinned to her ears, and you wonder if she’s the kind who’s always so finely dressed or whether you’ve accidentally stumbled in during a special occasion. Blood red nails delicately clasp a stout, crystal glassful of amber liquid and from the smell of it you can guess the contents.

“You’ll warm up faster if you let the heat touch your skin,” she muses, reclining into the far arm of the seat, her crossed legs pointing in your general direction. A stray curl of rich, chestnut hair escapes over her shoulder, flaring outward in a neat curve. “Oh, I don’t think I’ll be here for long…” you laugh, gently shifting the mug in your hands.

“Why not?” The female muses, swirling her glass in deft fingers. “We won’t be getting busy until at least six; it’s not even three yet.” She sips from her glass slowly, savouring the flavour. A pink tongue swipes at her lips, collecting the remaining taste. “You’re welcome to stay as long as you like. It’s what we’re here for.”

“I’m sorry—you work here?”

“I’m the owner.”

Your brows raise. “You’re Rita?”

The woman laughs through her lips, eyes twinkling faintly. “No. Rita was a friend.” She winks as she says it, like it’s some funny secret she’s decided to share between you. “And we’re all friends here, so you don’t have to worry about a thing. Stay as long as you like.”

“Thank you.” You flush at her warmth. How welcoming she is.

“Who told you about Rita’s?” The female asks, drawing you again from thought. You pause, unsure how to label your relationship with Mor. Instead you simply settle for giving her name. “Mor,” you answer, shifting in your seat before offering an unsure smile, “she’s a…friend.”

The female nods like she’s understanding part of a larger puzzle. You suppose it makes sense though—you’ve gotten the impression Mor is somewhat a regular, of course the owner would be familiar with her. Anxiety begins to crawl up your spine, bone by bone, piece by piece. What if she knows who you are—what you’ve done to upset Mor. But instead the female’s eyes twinkle, sparked by something.

“A friend of Morrigan’s,” she drawls, elegantly settling deeper into the cushioning, finishing off the knuckle’s-depth of her whiskey, knocking it back like it’s nothing. “Well then, you can call me Deliah.”

————

It wasn’t until the clock had struck five that you’d realised how long you’d been speaking with her. She’s a master of conversation, and you were swiftly swept up and away, almost forgetting your tea entirely, warmed beneath her attentive gaze. When you’d finally gotten up to leave, she’d wrapped you in a warm embrace, like you’d been friends for much longer than a few hours, and had pressed a departing kiss to your neck before you’d wrapped yourself in a scarf and headed back out into the much colder outdoors.

But still, the icy winds bite at your throat and nip at your cheeks, and you hug your cloak tighter to your body.

————

Night has fallen by the time you reach the River House, carefully hanging your cloak upon one of the iron hooks and removing your shoes. A surge of voices sound from your left—coming from the living room with windows overlooking the front lawn—and you quickly slip past into the kitchen searching for something to eat before tiptoeing up the stair to bed.

You don’t want to touch what Bas had told you—that he’s leaving. What if you hadn’t visited? What if you had put it off? What if he had decided not to tell you? What ultimately persuaded him to let you know? After all, he’d only mentioned it when you’d been leaving…perhaps he hadn’t intended to tell you, but something good in him had known the kind of emptiness you’d feel if you went to him one day to find the house packed up and empty? With no trace of him to be found?

The thought alone has a pit opening up in your stomach, eyes pressing together hard to keep tears at bay. He wouldn’t have done something like that, surely. Had you hurt him so badly?

For someone you had thought close to leave so abruptly without any notice…no reasons, no goodbye…just gone. How many methods of torture the mind could create with that. How the unknowing would surely swallow you whole. Regret feeding off every second, wishing to have a second chance.

Guilt weighs in your stomach.

“You’re back.”

You snap back to reality, ice flooding your veins as you spot Mor stood the other side of the kitchen counter, poised to pop open another bottle of wine. Your throat closes up but you nod, walking further into the room—it would too childish and obvious to exit as soon as you’d seen her. Her caramel eyes drop back to the cork, skewering the nail through the stopped and twisting. “Looking for something?”

“Just a bite to eat,” you manage, eyeing an apple in the fruit basket. Buttered bread with something on top would have been nice, but an apple will be great, too. Cool, and crisp. Hopefully not too tart.

“There’s food next door,” Mor tells you, neither of you really looking at the other, and you pluck the apple from the basket. “Olives, bread, cheese, grapes, wine.” She lifts the bottle, gesturing to the second one she has on the table beside her. “Probably apple slices and raisins too-”

Silence beats between you, and then fabric is rustling. You look up to find her almost upon you.

You jump when her hands rip the scarf from your shoulders, staring wide-eyed in…shock?

“Mor?” You ask, slightly defensively as you take a step back. “What-”

She grips your arms tight, pain flickering up through your flesh and your stomach clenches. “Stay away from her,” Mor hisses, her nails digging in through the fabric of your gloves. A low moan of discomfort escapes your mouth and her eyes again widen, inhaling sharply as she drops your arms. Mor recovers quickly, a mask sliding into place that’s cold and icy, not even a fragment of the previous hurt you’d seen to be found. “I don’t know how you met her, how you ran into her, and I don’t care. Just stay away from her.”

You’re breathing heavily, a light sweat on your skin but the light pain’s vanished as quick as it appeared, leaving you feeling cold and tingly all over. Flesh once again fading to numbness. “I don’t…Who?”

A small beauty mirror materialises out of thin air and she flips it open, showing the dark red imprint on your throat, a stamp of a woman’s lips. Deliah’s lipstick must have been pressed into your skin. A flush of regret rises up from your stomach and you slap your palm over the skin, hoping to conceal the blazing proof that you’d visited Rita’s. She’s never claimed it as her space, but it’s Mor’s domain.

“I’m sorry,” you splutter, trying to explain. “I was just cold, and I got lost, I didn’t mean to intrude, I swear I won’t go there again, I just needed somewhere to-”

“I don’t care where you go,” Mor hisses, a tissue appearing out of thin air, tipping your jaw to one side. “Stay in Rita’s all day if you like it. But don’t get involved with her. Does she know you know me?”

You nod your head, shame warming your cheeks. Mor sighs, rubbing harshly at your neck to remove the stain. It doesn’t take intelligence to tell she’s frustrated.

After a while Mor pulls away, the tissue a dark rouge colour, blood dried and faded to black. “I’ll talk to her. Tell her to stay away from you.” She turns, tossing the tissue in the bin. She shoots you a hard look over her shoulder, “Don’t go near her. Do you understand?”

You nod again.

Mor sighs, and you can hear her lips purse. “I’m serious. She’s a bloodsucker.”

“I won’t go near her,” you say, reaching for the apple and shifting it between you palms. “I promise I won’t this time.”

Silence hangs in the air, and you think you feel the tension disperse. She nods, once. “I believe you.”

Your lips press together, and you peer at the apple, turning it around in your hand to shift your awareness from the weight of Mor’s gaze. At last it lessens, and you look up to see her walking away, heading out of the kitchen and probably for the living room, where it sounds like the others are. She pauses on the threshold. Looks over her shoulder. “You can join these ones too you know. It’s not just the dinners people spend time together.”

You look at one another quietly, but before you can reply she’s vanished off into the hallway, the voices rising a few seconds later when she reaches the living room.

You can join these ones too, you know.

The waxy red of the apple shines beneath the faelights.

It’s not just the dinners people spend time together.

————

You pause in the doorway. One foot in the room with all of them, the other out in the hallway, already poised to depart. You feel it as attention openly shifts to you, not coming in, but not leaving either. For the first time, you’re openly wanting of their focus.

Your skin prickles as you feel the room quiet, but you’ve already taken the first step which you know from having heard so many people say is the hardest. It’s a lie. You know from experience it’s never the first step that’s the most difficult, but the one you have to make in the present. The present is always the worst.

You meet the blue-grey eyes of your youngest sister, Nyx held to her front, Rhysand at her side. “Will you sit down, for this?”

Feyre stiffens, and you can feel the room itself grow stagnant. The air that had previously been alive and bubbling growing colder. Even the warm lighting, the fae-lights and the candles seem to have dulled. A nervous laugh rattles her shoulders, “I don’t think I’ve ever seen you look so serious.” Your features remain solemn, and the little mirth she had left in her eyes winks out. Feyre settles on the arm of one of the big, cushy armchairs, Rhysand sliding in beside her.

You swallow thickly, fierce, lionlike eyes passing through your head. Your head bows. “Madja believes she knows what’s wrong with me.” You clear your throat, and correct yourself, “With my magic.”

Silence hangs in the air, and you have to force yourself to continue, fingers leafing together. “It is a little serious,” you say, glancing briefly to Feyre with a tired, guilty smile, “so I’ll try to be as concise as possible.” Feyre nods her head, and you last a small breath before starting.

You lift your chin to dress the room.

“I only found out I had magic about two months ago. It caused me a lot of pain, and still does when I try to use it, though not as much as those initial attempts.” Your gloved fingers wring together. “After some poor experiences, the side-effects of my magic became apparent. You might have noticed I’ve been wearing gloves a lot lately—it’s not a new fashion craze.” A half-smile appears on Elain’s mouth and you could kiss her cheek for it. “Rather, it began to damage my body physically, externally. My hands became dry, and…there were some other things I’ll leave out, but there was obviously something wrong with them.”

You try to keep your voice steady, try to keep your hands from shaking as you pinch one tip of a finger and begin pulling the glove from your skin. The patchy, discoloured flesh of your arm appears, scabbed and flaky, skin ashen where it’s begun to peel. You remove the other, and fold them over your hands, clasped together at your front.

“After I…After the House Of Wind happened, the dryness spread further to my shoulders. I’ve lost almost all sense of touch in my hands, and most of my arms are numb, but they still hurt a lot if I knock into something.” Are you taking too long? Is this stupid? You try to imagine finding Bas’ house empty. “Madja’s been very attentive, an absolute blessing, and she’s figured that my magic wasn’t existing externally, because it was festering internally.” You pause, lips trembling, but swallow past the lump in your throat. Your voice is hoarse when you add, “For two years.”

The room itself shifts—Feyre sitting straighter; Nesta leaning forward, Cassian squeezing her hand tighter; even Mor’s shifted in her corner, no longer slouching against the wall; only Elain is frozen still.

“What does that mean?” Feyre asks, her voice like a finger dragging through sun-softened butter.

“Madja says she can’t reverse the damage; what’s happened to me. That two years is too long for her to even attempt to undo.”

“So…what?” Feyre’s voice is quiet, softer than you’ve ever heard it. “It’s going to keep spreading? There’s no way to remove the pain?”

“Kind of.” You nod, shifting on your feet. You can’t help wanting to look into a hazel set of eyes in the far corner of the room. You wonder what he’s making of this big speech. Whether it’s all stuff he already knows, and he’s waiting for it to be over already. Old news.

“Madja says she can’t erase the pain. It’s always going to be there because it’s been able to sink too deep.”

Feyre’s hand is covering her mouth; Nesta’s expression is focussed but her knuckles are white where she’s gripping Cassian’s hand; Elain’s eyes are wide, and her skin is sickly pale.

You bite your lip, shifting once again in the doorway. Shifting to stand just over the threshold, teetering on the edge of the living room and the dark, empty corridor.

“She’s given me about six months to live.”

If you didn’t know better, you’d think someone, somewhere, had plucked the final string of the harp and frozen time. It’s unnerving—being in a room filled with living statues.

You almost flinch when Mor pushes off from the wall. It’s not a sudden movement by any means, if anything it’s more subdued than you’ve ever seen her, but with a swift look around the room, locking gazes with four pairs of eyes, she takes her drink with her and makes to pass you, exiting the room. Cassian glances at Nesta, squeezing her hand tight before standing; Rhysand remains still, his and the High Lady’s eyes glazing before he’s pushing a kiss to her temple, scooping up Nyx and following after Azriel and Amren.

You almost crumble now it’s only you and your sisters.

It’s too much for you to bear.

You’d thought you were okay with your silver lining.

——————————————————————————————————————————————

general taglist: @myheartfollower @tcris2020 @mali22 @slut4acotar @sfhsgrad-blog @needylilgal022 @hannzoaks @hnyclover @skyesayshi @nyotamalfoy @decomposing-writer @soph1644 @lilah-asteria @nighttimemoonlover @mrsjna

az taglist: @azrielshadows1nger @jurdanpotter @positivewitch @nightcourt-daydreaming @assassinsblade @marvelouslovely-barnes @v3lv3tf0x @kalulakunundrum @vellichor01 @throneofsmut @vickykazuya @starlitlakes @kksbookstuff @feerique @ratgirl2020 @just-m-2

cbmthy taglist: @impossibelle @naturakaashi @fae-glamour-petrichorus @ficienjoyedrbspot @azriels-shadowsinger @marina468 @misstea12 @going-through-shit @fussel9913 @minakay @i-am-infinite @wannabewolf @thegirlintheshadows101

[danikamariewrites]

Hi! I have a Cassian request. Could you a do request that's somewhat spoiler free? I'm about midway in acomaf( I know late to the game lol) I've got a good amount of fics reblogged but I've also been nervous to read them. Maybe reader is rhys's little sister and he made clear rule from day one that is inner circle isn't allowed to touch her. But reader Cass have been secretly dating and then their mating bond goes into effect so they can't necessarily hide it anymore. Maybe feyre is the only one that knows until then.

Secrets I Keep

Cassian x Rhys’s sister!reader

Notes: Cass is the best bat boy for the brother’s best friend’s trope! I know you asked this a while ago so I need to know if you’ve finished yet, ACOMAF is one of my favorites.

Warnings:

Bidding Feyre goodnight you shut the door behind her. Letting out a sigh of relief and slumping against the door you look to the closet. When Feyre had come to your bedroom over an hour ago thats where you had stuffed your poor boyfriend. Stalking over to the closet you thanked the Mother that the newly turned fae female couldn’t pick up on Cassian’s scent.

Yanking the door open you immediately spot Cassian curled up, trying to hide behind your more formal gowns. His wings, unfortunately, gave the General away. As well as his long, muscular legs that he attempted to tuck close to his chest.

Stifling a laugh with an unconvincing throat clearing sound Cass pokes his head out from behind the layers of silk and tule. “You can come out now.” Cassian lets out a sigh, groaning as he stood from the tightness in his joints. You laugh at him, a teasing remark already forming in your mind.

Cass towers over you, giving you a playful smirk. “What are you laughing at, princess?” “Just an old man and his creaky joints.” He shakes his head at you, quickly grabbing you and flinging you over his shoulder, tickling your sides. Giggling like crazy you playfully demand he put you down. Cassian throws you on your bed, crawling over your body to press kisses all over your face.

Getting a weird feeling you notice a new source of light from the corner of your eye. Turning your head you see Feyre standing in your doorway, eyes wide and mouth open in shock at the sight before her. You hit Cassian’s chest to get him to stop. Noticing Feyre’s presence Cass turns to her.

Sitting up, your mouth opens and closes, at a loss for what to say. “Don’t tell Rhys!” You blurt out. Feyre nods, slowly backing out of your room, “I got your back, don’t worry.” She says with a smirk.

——

It’s been over a month since Feyre was last in the Night Court. Now that she’s a permanent resident you’ve been helping her adjust to life here and working for your brother.

Today you decided to make a rare appearance before noon, joining the group for training early.

You stayed off to the side for a bit, watching Feyre spar with Cassian. You noticed some of Cassian’s signature moves as they fought. Smiling to yourself you remember when Cass started training you.

Yeah, you’d had some training but your father didn’t want you near Illyrian. Especially because of your wings. You had inherited the same ability as Rhys - being able to call your wings on command - but you also had a fear that one day you might be forced to show them in the camps. And nothing good could come from that.

When the boys came home from the first war Cassian took it upon himself to make sure you were a warrior. Rhys had told both Azriel and Cass you were not in the dating pool. But the sparks flew during your training and you couldn’t stay away. Your relationship finally started a year ago. Ever since you’ve been in a state of bliss, blindly in love for the first time in your life.

Rhys landed, his wings beating loudly, commanding attention. You roll your eyes at his dramatics. “Hello Feyre darling. Are you ready for another lesson?” He holds out a hand for her to take, his wings disappearing in that familiar dark mist. You had missed seeing his magic. You missed him.

Feyre nodded, taking his hand, leaving you and Cassian alone. As they walked past Feyre sent you a subtle wink you prayed Rhys didn’t catch.

As you and Cass sparred you grabbed you around the waist, bringing you to the ground. You fought against his bulky frame, trying to get leverage to flip him. “Give up yet, princess? You look like you’re running out of steam.”

“You wish idiot!” you retort, still struggling. Cassian laughs, “Wow, idiot? That’s all you got today?”

You weakly punch at his thick thighs caging in your torso. “I’d think of something else, but a giant is cutting off the air supply to my brain.” Cassian laughed again as you continued to push at him. He wasn’t really crushing you, but good gods your boyfriend is an immovable mountain.

Cassian went ridged above you. Noticing the tension in his muscles you stop, gazing up at him with a worried look. “Cass? What’s wrong?” You ask softly. His gaze seemed far away, distracted. His jaw unhinged in shock. You slide out from under him to stand in front of him. Holding his face in your hands you tilt it so he’s looking up at you.

“Cassian, you’re freaking me out. What is wrong?” You shake him a little to snap him back into himself. Cassian grabbed your wrists, pressing kisses across your knuckles then your palms. “It-the bond. It snapped, for you.”

Your eyes widened to the size of dinner plates. Your jaw dropping to match Cassian’s shock. Seconds later you feel that warm, golden thread hum to life in your chest, wrapping snugly around your heart. You fling your arms around Cassian’s neck, pushing closer to his body, trying to be one with your mate.

Cassian’s tears fall against your cheek. You move to pull away from him but Cass holds on to you tighter. “Why are you crying baby?” You coo. “This is just-this is the happiest day of my life.” He whispered.

You squeeze him tighter, turning to press a kiss against his cheek. Feeling unsatisfied with that small show of affection Cass threads his fingers through your hair, pulling you to face him, pressing his lips to yours in a heated kiss.

Breaking away for air you rest your forehead against his, both letting out breathless laughs. “I love you.” He says, pressing his lips to yours again. This one quicker and rushed, like he can’t get enough of you. “I love you more, Cass.”

[bluesylveon2]

If you still have spots open could I get Idia + Kiss the girl? Your writings are so cute I adore them 😭💙 and please take your time with this!

I immediately saw this and thought Book 7 😂. Also, I'm in the EN server, so idk how exactly Book 7 goes and this is my interpretation of it. TO THOSE IN THE JP SERVER, DO NOT SAY ANY SPOILERS! I WANT TO BE SURPRISED WHEN IT COMES OUT.

I hope you enjoy, anon! 😂

Notes: mentions the Ghost Bride event, Idia has pink hair again, Ortho is a supportive brother, Yuu is bold, Idia doubting himself, true love's kiss, and me blanking out on how to write internet slang

Word Count: 1042 (yall these are getting longer lol)

Warnings: slightly suggestive ending (Yuu and Idia are basically making out), possible ooc characters, and not beta read.

Night Raven College was mostly fixed after the Malleus' overblot. The only thing left could be found in Ramshackle dorm, where the Prefect was asleep. She fell under that condition after getting hit by Malleus' magic, and, according to Sebek, there was a chance she could sleep for eternity. The staff, Grim, and the first-year group stood around her bed when some fireflies appeared. 

Crowley greeted the fae prince,  "Did you find anything?" 

Malleus nodded, and Crowley sighed in relief, "I am willing to try anything as long as it doesn't hurt Yuu. Besides, who is going to do my taxes?!" he exclaimed. The other staff members shook their heads. 

Crewel rolled his eyes and slapped Crowley's head, "Snap out of it! My pup's life is in danger!"

Annoyed by the headmaster, Malleus cleared his throat, "The only way to cure Yuu is for true love's kiss."

“True…love’s…kiss…” Everyone said and stayed silent to process everything. 

Crewel frowned, "I will not allow a random slimy mutt's lips to touch my pup's. She needs someone that she is close to."

"How about one of the first years?" Trein asked, but Ace (the self-declared leader of the group) shook his head.

"Not a chance. We got brother zoned by her."

The rest of the first years nodded in agreement, "And that would be weird to kiss your sister," Deuce added.

Crewel sighed, "Does anyone know who she was the closest to? Any suggestions?"

Slowly, Ortho raised one robotic arm, "I have an idea." 

---

"WHY DO I HAVE TO DO IT??"

"Because you are close to the Prefect, Big Brother, and you like her!" Ortho exclaimed, causing everyone to question what was going on. The group could hear a lot of ruckus downstairs, and Idia screamed, "I want to live!" at one point. 

Finally, the duo appeared at the Prefect's door. Well, it was Ortho carrying a flailing Idia until he dumped him on the floor at the end of the bed.

Crowley squatted to Idia's level, "Now, I'm sure that Ortho filled you in on the details, but we need you to kiss Yuu so she can wake up?"

"Can't you try to shake her, pour a bucket of cold water on her, or use Sebek's loud voice?"

"MY VOICE IS NOT LOUD!" The half-fae shouted into poor Epel's ears. 

Sam sighed and turned to Idia, "This is getting nowhere. Maybe my friends from the other side can convince you?" He smiled, and some eerie shadows appeared behind him, causing shivers to run down Idia's spine. 

Trein sighed, and Lucius let out an annoyed meow, "This is getting us nowhere."

"I agree! Is the audience necessary?" Idia asked, and Crowley stood up. 

"Fine. We will compromise. We will all leave you alone so you can kiss Yuu," He gestured for everyone to leave, and everyone followed. 

"Wait!" Idia called out, "I want Ortho to stay."

"If you insist," Crowley said and closed the door, leaving the two brothers alone. 

Ortho floated to Idia, sitting beside him, "What's wrong, Big Brother?"

Idia sighed and looked down at his hands, "Remember that time I got kidnapped by Eliza?" Ortho nodded, "This is the same level as that. Instead of me being in the afterlife, I am possibly Yuu's true love. Do you know how frightening that is?"

Ortho sighed and looked at his brother with big yellow eyes, "I do. I was the one who asked Yuu and the others to rescue you, but now it is the opposite. You can save Yuu!"

Idia turned to his brother with doubt on his face. "But what if it doesn't work? Then what? Even if it did, Yuu would be stuck with a loser like me."

Ortho frowned, "You might think that way, but you are also a genius! Plus, unlike Eliza, Yuu actually likes you, so the feeling is mutual!" he exclaimed with sparkles in his eyes. 

Idia smiled, now with determination, "You're right! I got this!" He marched over to where Yuu peacefully slept, unaware of everything around her. 

Ortho floated to the green armchair to give his brother some space, "Yeah! And you don't even have to kiss her on the lips. Malleus said true love's kiss could break the curse, but he never said where."

Idia's hair turned slightly pink at the thought. He would be down to kiss Yuu (preferably a short kiss and not a full-on makeout session) if she was awake and not cursed. He looked down at Yuu's sleeping form. If there was one thing the otaku could admit was that she looked adorable, but he would never let anyone hear that out loud. 

Idia slowly leaned down toward Yuu's face. Ortho watched as his brother's hair turned even pinker the closer he got. Idia stopped momentarily when his face was a few inches away to admire Yuu. "Please wake up," he whispered, pressing his blue lips on Yuu's forehead. 

Idia quickly jumped away but remained at Yuu's side and held his breath. A minute had passed, and there was no movement from the Prefect. Idia turned to Ortho with a defeated look. "It looks like I lost, Ortho. Let's try to find someone else."

"You missed," a voice called out, causing Idia to freeze. He looked down at Yuu, who was wide awake but had a blank expression.

"W-what??"

"I said, you missed my lips. You kissed me on the forehead instead," Yuu smirked, causing Idia's hair to turn pink.

"I mean, you were asleep, and then there's consent-"

Yuu rolled her eyes, "Well, I consent to it now," she grabbed Idia's collar and pulled him down, causing him to fall on top of her on the bed and for his lips to meet hers. 

Ortho stood up and cheered, his eyes closed with glee. "Yay! It worked, Big Brother! You are Yuu's true love, after all," The boy opened his eyes to see that the two were enjoying their second kiss a bit too much. Despite the boy getting human characteristics recently, he was still learning. He knew some things about love thanks to being in the Film Research Club.

Ortho immediately flew out the door. "Let me get the others before it gets out of hand!"

400 event is still open!! (only one spot left!)

Disclaimer: I do not own Twisted Wonderland and its characters. Those belong to Aniplex, Walt Disney Japan, and Yana Toboso.

©: This story belongs to bluesylveon2 2020-23. DO NOT modify, republish, or plagiarize my work.

[inky-writing]

The Dryad

Part 1

Tamlin x reader

Warnings: blood, scars, wounds, idk, spoiler if you didn't read at least the first three tomes of acotar

Word count: 815

The forest hummed quietly. Sunlight filtered through the canopy, dappling the moss-covered ground with golden streaks. Y/N’s hands moved gently over the bark of a massive oak, murmuring soft words to it as if it might respond. She felt the energy beneath her fingertips, the pulse of life that only a dryad could sense when it came to trees. This corner of the Spring Court was hers to protect, and she loved with ferocity.

It was then she caught the faint, but unmistakable scent of blood on the breeze. Her heart quickened, a feeling of unease washing over her. Stepping lightly, she followed the trail, each step purposeful yet silent. She rounded a cluster of elder trees and froze.

There, sprawled on the ground, was a figure she recognized instantly. His golden hair was matted with dirt and blood, his usually powerful frame slack with exhaustion. Tamlin, high lord of the Spring Court, lay unconscious against the roots of an ancient willow tree. His breathing was shallow, his body covered with wounds.

Y/N hesitated. Despite her "lesser fae" status, she’d heard the stories, of Tamlin’s failures, his grief, his exile into the shadows of his own mind after the war. But she’d also heard whispers of his attempts at redemption, the way he’d slowly rebuilt his Court after years of absence. She’d never met him in person, though. Until now.

Her heart tugged in a way she didn’t entirely understand, and before she could think twice, she crouched by his side. “My lord?” she called softly. He didn’t stir.

Y/N laid a hand on his chest, feeling the faint thrum of his heartbeat. Relief coursed through her. He was alive, but just barely. Gathering her courage, she pressed her hands over one of his deeper wounds and summoned the magic of the forest around her. The trees lent her their strength, the earth its vitality, and she channeled it into him.

Tamlin’s eyes fluttered open moments later. They locked onto hers, hazy with confusion. “Who…?” His voice was hoarse, barely a whisper.

“Stay still,” Y/N urged. “You’re badly hurt.”

He frowned but didn’t argue, his gaze flickering to her hands as they glowed faintly with magic. “You’re a dryad?” he murmured, recognition dawning in his eyes.

She nodded. “Y/N,” she offered. “You’re in my part of the forest.”

For a moment, Tamlin said nothing, his sharp green eyes studying her. Then his gaze softened, and he let his head fall back against the tree. “Thank you,” he said quietly, the sincerity in his voice catching her off guard.

Over the next few days, Y/N nursed Tamlin back to health. Though he was reluctant to accept help at first, the bond they formed was undeniable. He told her stories of his Court, his people, and the mistakes he’d made. He spoke of Feyre and Rhysand, of Nyx, the child he’d come to consider as a symbol of peace rather than pain.

Y/N listened, her heart aching for the high lord who had endured so much loss. Yet through it all, she never spoke of the bond that had snapped into place for her the moment their eyes first met. It was a cruel twist of fate, to feel that connection, to know he did not.

One evening, as the sun dipped below the horizon, Tamlin stood at the edge of the clearing where she’d found him. He was fully healed now, his strength returned, but he lingered. Y/N joined him, her steps hesitant.

“You’ve done more for me than I deserve,” Tamlin said without turning. His voice was low, tinged with something she couldn’t quite place. “I’ll repay you someday. I promise.”

“You don’t owe me anything,” she replied softly. She meant it, though her chest tightened at the thought of him leaving.

Tamlin turned to her, his eyes searching for hers. For a fleeting moment, Y/N thought he might say something, might sense the bond she so desperately wished to hide. But instead, he reached out and brushed a strand of hair from her face.

“You’re remarkable, Y/N,” he said softly, almost too quiet for her to hear, his words like a confession. Then he stepped back, the weight of his role as high lord settling back over his shoulders. “I hope we meet again.”

And with that, he was gone, disappearing into the woods.

Y/N watched him leave, tears stinging her eyes. She touched the spot where his hand had grazed her cheek, the bond thrumming painfully in her chest. She turned back to her forest, seeking solace in its embrace, but her heart was no longer entirely her own.

As the night deepened, a whisper stirred through the trees, carrying a promise she couldn’t yet understand. Y/N glanced toward the direction Tamlin had gone, wondering if their paths would cross again.

[vulpes-fennec]

The Fae Equality Initiative (Ch. 9) 🌊

Summary: We return to our sexy High Lord of Summer TRYING HIS BEST to keep the ball rolling on fae equality.

Tarquin, High Lord of the Summer Court, has sent ripples of shock throughout Prythian with his plans to eliminate discrimination against Lesser Fae. When the Night Court is invited to send a delegation to Summer Court, Elain Archeron can’t wait to show everybody what she’s capable of on her first official Inner Circle assignment. Little does she know that Tarquin has also recruited Lucien Vanserra’s assistance…

Read: Ch 1 | Ch 8 | AO3

Tarquin was being subjected to torture as he listened to the squabbling of Adriata’s public forum. What started as a way to solicit his citizens’ comments had devolved into frequent arguments and even brawls that his guard had to break up. Just because fists stopped flying, didn’t mean tension stopped simmering in the air.

“Can’t you see? Even if we amended the zoning laws in Adriata, the Fae will still be clustered in districts of extravagant wealth, middle class, and relative poverty.”

“Yes, but the point is that we aren’t preventing certain Fae from living in wealthy districts. If they have the means, they are free to move wherever they’d like.” 

“What will we do about the growing number of humans still in the court? My sister-in-law from Ibaria says the human refugee camp has morphed into a permanent settlement.”

“We don’t want any humans in the Summer Court! Think of all the horrible ash wood they’ll bring to protect themselves—our lives will be at risk!”

“Exactly, they are creatures with no sense of morality and hygiene. And they reproduce like rabbits! Our lands will be overrun in no time.”

“I want to make clear that I wholeheartedly oppose the idea of an integrated merchant fleet. What’s wrong with the tiered system from before?”

“Think of all the rapport that will be broken with newcomers! These ties have existed for centuries, and now we have to include the Lesser Fae in our trading voyages?”

“We are simply other merchants, not total newcomers. I don’t understand why these High Fae think so highly of themselves, when it was the bronze tier, the Lesser Fae fleet, that brought down more of Hybern’s armada during the war!” 

“Well, I’m a Lesser Fae and I don’t want to integrate with you pretentious bastards. Who’s with me?” 

The chiming of bells that indicated the meeting’s end was music to Tarquin’s ears. “Thank you everybody for coming out today.” Tarquin projected his voice through the hall amidst grumbles and murmurs. “If you have not had a chance to speak, we hope to hear from you next week.” 

Guilt warred with relief as he left the dais. Shouldn’t leaders listen to their people with patience, with undivided attention? I’m trying, I really am…but sometimes the things they say have me rolling my eyes.  

Things like the mental gymnastics they executed in order to defend questionable opinions. Or their blatant hypocrisy. Or when they asked about something that was easily discoverable in the public record. 

The public forum had been his brainchild when he returned from Under the Mountain. Amarantha’s tyrannical rule was a prime example of what not to do in court. Tarquin thought it would be an excellent opportunity to hear directly from his people, to make them feel heard. Unfortunately, he frequently left these meetings feeling exhausted and irritated. 

He needed to vent, but Varian was supervising training for the new recruits and today was Cresseida’s day off. I definitely need more friends, Tarquin thought dejectedly. If I wasn’t so gods-damned busy all the time, maybe I could make some. He’d lost 50 years of socializing being Under the Mountain, and now all his free time was sucked up by his ambitious plans for the Summer Court. 

So Tarquin ended up knocking on the door of Lucien’s room. 

“Tarquin!” The foxy male’s face broke into a wide grin. ”Do come in.” 

Tarquin felt a strange tickling sensation on his bare arms as he crossed the threshold, as if some magic had put out feelers to sense who entered the room. Strange. I don’t recall warding the delegation rooms in such a manner.

“Oh, I don’t need a drink,” he said quickly when Lucien began uncorking a bottle of wine.

“You look like you need one,” Lucien objected, pouring Tarquin a glass anyway. “Besides, I bought this in the harbor today. Good wine should be shared with friends.”

Tarquin had to admit Lucien was right when he took a sip of the tangy, slightly bitter wine. “Thank you, Lucien. Sometimes I forget when to relax.” 

Lucien settled on the armchair across from him. “I know the feeling,” he admitted. “Court never stops. If you’re not addressing urgent needs during working hours, you’re keeping tabs on gossip all the time. How was the public forum?” 

“Cauldron boil me.” Tarquin rubbed his brow. “Utter chaos. No productive conversations anymore. Questionable thinking left and right.” 

Lucien gazed at him with deep sympathies. “Sounds like a mess.” 

“It really is a mess. I was trying to emulate the Night and Day Courts, but it’s not working. You know, how Rhysand and Feyre have a public session for the city of Velaris, and Rhodes has these public gatherings for civic discussion?” 

Lucien nodded, in deep thought. “What if you have each district host its own public forum every week? And then have a monthly meeting convening the district community leaders for a more productive conversation?” the emissary suggested. “That way each citizen can still voice their concerns, but when it comes to city-wide issues, there aren’t as many voices shouting at each other.”

“Hmm. Has this idea been tried anywhere else?” Tarquin asked. “It certainly sounds much more manageable than the chaos we have now.” 

“Not in Prythian. But Queen Vassa had implemented something similar when she lived on the continent. It worked well for her.” Lucien shrugged.

“Alright then, I’ll give it a shot. Right—since you have such good ideas, Lucien, I was wondering if you’d be willing to pick up some contract work for us while you’re here.”

“What is it?” 

“Nothing too intrusive.” Tarquin proceeded to explain the idea for a permanent committee to assist with the transition, then oversight of his social mandates. And Lucien’s compensation, should he choose to accept. 

“Sounds manageable to me,” Lucien said with a teasing grin. “You’ve got some good ideas up your sleeve too. I’m in.” 

“It was technically Varian’s idea.” Tarquin bowed his head humbly. He took a sip of his wine, savoring the notes of pomegranate. “Anyways, I’ve been dying to know…how did you end up defeating Koschei? Wasn’t Queen Vassa bound with a blood curse?” 

He’d only heard of the death god in legend, and had quaked upon seeing the Bone Carver and the Weaver unleash hell in battle. I’d rather sit through public forum for the rest of my life than meet Koschei. 

A shadow of unease passed over Lucien’s face. “We were very lucky. I…Vassa was most familiar with Koschei, so we…we played a clever trick on him,” he said vaguely. “Jurian rightfully made the kill. To be honest, I’m not even sure myself how it happened.” 

Well, Lucien’s definitely not telling me the truth. Part of Tarquin was a bit hurt, but the other part was empathetic towards his friend. What’s done is done, and perhaps dealing with Koschei was more traumatic than he let on. I won’t press Lucien on it anymore. 

“Well, he’s gone now, thanks to you three.” Tarquin gave Lucien an easy grin to lighten the mood. “And are Queen Vassa and Jurian…?” The question hung in the air. 

Lucien grinned back, anxieties lifting. “Let’s just say the humans will be receiving a King Consort soon.” 

“It’s about time.” 

Lucien shook his head ruefully. “I’m glad the palace was renovated quickly after Vassa’s re-coronation, though. Mother knows how many times I’ve walked in on the two of them being grossly intimate with each other in that tiny manor house.” 

“Oh gods,” Tarquin groaned. “My condolences.” 

Lucien waved his hand aimlessly. “And what about you? Anyone special in your life?” 

“Not at all. Perhaps once this whole thing settles down, I’ll find time for a relationship.” 

Lucien shrugged. “Who says you need to be in a relationship to have some fun? According to some of the local press, you definitely have your fair share of swooning admirers in Adriata.” 

Tarquin sent a tiny flick of water across Lucien’s cheek. “As if I’m the one who’s such a ladies man,” he chuckled. “I’m still quite young. I don’t need to think about settling down for a while.” 

“Call me old and decrepit already, won’t you? Don’t you worry, Tarquin, we’ll find you someone perfect.” 

Tarquin wasn’t sure if it was the wine, but Lucien seemed chattier today. Snarkier—more like his old self. “And what about you, Lucien? How have things been—or not been—with Elain Archeron?” 

Lucien’s tanned face turned crimson as he explained the interactions from the last few days, from Elain acknowledging his presence to their frank conversation and library encounter. “Tarquin, what does it mean when a female asks if you’d like to eat lunch with her?” Lucien finished. 

Tarquin rolled his eyes. “Do you hear yourself? Asking me of all people for advice?” 

“I’m serious, Tarquin!” Lucien put his glass down and covered his face with a pillow. 

Tarquin sighed. “Well, I can’t speak for Elain, but if she sought your company, then you must not be entirely abhorrent,” he commented dryly. “What did you two eat?” 

“Sushi,” came Lucien’s muffled reply. “She said she liked it. But I may or may not have laughed at her when she took a mouthful of wasabi.” 

“You laughed at her? I thought you were supposed to be good with the ladies.” 

“I am!” Lucien sat up, his eyes flashing wildly. “I must have become rusty. And when it comes to Elain…well, she’s my mate. I’ve messed up enough, and I don’t even know how I truly feel about her.” 

“You’d think mating bonds would be easy. They snap, the two Fae fall for each other, they live happily ever after because the bond just greases the wheels and smooths out any incompatibility with its magic.”

“Do you feel that if you and Elain had gotten to know each other, without any mate business involved, a romance blossomed more easily?” 

Lucien hesitated. “But that’s the big question, isn’t it? I want to say yes, but I don’t know.” 

“I can pay special attention to any mated pairs at court. Understand how they chose each other. See how their relationships played out over the years,” Tarquin offered.

“Thank you,” Lucien replied, his cheeks still crimson. 

“Well, I would love to stay and chat for longer, but I should make my way down the hall and check in with the rest of the delegations,” Tarquin said, getting up. “Thank you for the wine.”

“Anytime.” Lucien got up to walk the High Lord to the door. “I’ll get started on research and outreach for the committee tomorrow.” 

Tarquin visited each of the delegations, reaching the Night Court delegation’s door last. Balthazar and Elain were nibbling on a pre-dinner plate of pastries and tea, enjoying the balmy evening air. They graciously invited him to join them. 

“I hope that you two have had a comfortable stay so far?” Tarquin asked. 

“Excellent,” Balthazar said. The Illyrian male, Balthazar, was not at all like Rhysand, Cassian, or Azriel. He was tall and lanky, with the awkward but well-meaning airs of an adolescent. “Adriata is beautiful and Varian showed me where the training court is.” 

Elain also seemed to have relaxed since her first day, which Tarquin was glad to see. “Yes, you’ve been a wonderful host,” she added. If the female had any feelings about the morning she’d spent with Lucien, she did not show it on her beautiful face. 

“What have you two been up to today?” Tarquin inquired casually. 

“I met with Sona and Jaime this morning. We were discussing the stereotypes the Fae have for each other. For example, Sona said that water wraiths have a bad reputation for being greedy and voracious creatures. And you know…Illyrians like me are thought of as bloodthirsty and war-mongering.”

Tarquin nodded. “I myself have certainly seen many animosities between the fire and water sprites of the Courts,” he agreed. “Between some hives, it’s friendly bickering. For others, it’s pretty vicious.”

“Exactly. And we weren’t sure how much things would change—or stay the same—moving forward,” Balthazar finished. 

“And what about you, Elain?” Tarquin asked pointedly. “What did you do today?” 

The corner of Elain’s mouth twitched, and her cheeks colored pink. Aha, Tarquin thought slyly. She must be recalling what she did with Lucien. A promising sign for him, if I ever did see one.

“I was doing some research in the Summer Palace’s libraries,” she demurred. “And…and I had lunch in the city.”

“Oh, really? What did you eat?” And who did you eat with, Tarquin wanted to ask, even though he already knew the answer. 

Elain’s mouth curved in a shy smile, making Tarquin feel even more satisfied. “I had sushi.” 

“Sushi? Is that raw fish?” Balthazar said with astonishment. “How was it?” 

“I liked it! You must try it, Balthazar. But do avoid eating the green paste—it made my nose burn horribly.” 

Tarquin chuckled. “I see you’ve discovered wasabi, Elain. I advise mixing small amounts of it with the other condiments in the future for a more pleasant experience.” 

“Oh, it wasn’t too bad. It just took me by surprise,” Elain assured him. The trio fell into easy conversation, soon after. Balthazar regaled them with harrowing tales of dodging beasts in the Illyrian mountains. Elain answered all of Tarquin’s questions about Velaris. And Tarquin gave them a run-down of Summer Court’s must-try delicacies, and where his favorite spots were in Adriata. 

“By the way, is there anything that we can do for you, Tarquin?” Balthazar asked. 

“Actually, if you, Sona, and Jaime are willing, I can set aside time during the central committee meeting this weekend for you to share your findings or lead a discussion?” 

Balthazar nodded. “Yes, of course. We can put something together for you to review the day prior?” 

“Thank you. Adriata is home to many different Fae species, so feel free to make use of all our resources.” 

“Tarquin, are there any…human-centered organizations in Adriata? I was thinking I could devote some time volunteering for them. Or perhaps, anything else you need assistance on?” Elain piped up, her expression one of strained yearning. Like she was trying to remind them that she was of use.

Humans? That’s right—Lucien said Queen Vassa wanted more fair and equal treatment of humans living in Prythian as well. 

Humans were winnowed temporarily into Adriata during the war, but many of their homes in the human lands had been completely destroyed. So they settled in the Summer Court, which had been challenging for humans and Fae alike. Tarquin had passed several emergency ordinances that protected them from being outright harmed, but living amongst the Fae could not be easy.

“We actually do have a charity that is dedicated to helping humans settle in Adriata,” he recalled. “It’s called Safe Harbor House. Would you be interested?” Elain nodded eagerly. “Alright then. I’ll have Cresseida take you tomorrow morning at 10.”

“Thank you, Tarquin!” Elain said eagerly, blatant relief on her face. 

She reminds me of when I first became High Lord…eager to prove myself and take on all sorts of tasks. Did Feyre and Rhysand not give her any Night Court assignments prior to this? Tarquin observed.

Tarquin bid Balthazar and Elain goodnight, for he had plenty of work to catch up on. But instead of cracking open the latest stack of reports, the High Lord of Summer mused over Lucien’s crimson face and Elain’s shy smile. 

I really shouldn’t pry, but there HAS GOT to be something there. The two of them managed to clear up past miscommunication, which is a good start. And Elain asked if Lucien would eat lunch with her. 

Even though Lucien says he doesn’t know how he feels about Elain, he’s clearly charmed by her. Elain was also noticeably flustered when she recalled the day’s events. But with Lucien hesitating to initiate anything with his mate…and with Elain still used to human customs of courtship…

He suddenly had an idea. Everything was coming together. Tarquin began penning a letter to the High Lady of Winter:

Dear Viviane, I have a strong suspicion that our friend Lucien may be making more progress with Elain than we’d previously thought. If you are returning to Adriata this weekend, I must ask you to join me in devising ways to set the mated pair up…this is my first idea…

Resources linked here!

Read: Ch 10

Notes: Ok but what's Tarquin's idea hmmm? Anyways, this is a LOT OF PLOT but I promise it's laying the groundwork for a reason. Things are going to start picking up next chapter!

[missouri-witchcraft]

Quartz Correspondences & Associations

Welcome back to the quartz series! I did my best to cover as many types of quartz as possible in this post, but eventually it just slowly drove me mad.

Like with the things that are quartz-based, quartz itself can fade in sunlight. I've also heard that its dust is toxic, so don't inhale quartz.

ASSOCIATIONS

Comets & Planets

Earth

Moon

Sun

Deities & Figures

Artemis (Greek)

Beira (Scottish)

Cailleach (Gaelic)

Diana (Roman)

Guanyin (Buddhist)

Hekate (Greek)

Hermes (Greek)

Ishtar (Mesopotamian)

Ma’at (Egyptian)

Persephone (Greek)

Skadi (Norse)

Thoth (Egyptian)

Elements

earth

fire

Entities

fae

spirits

Zodiac Signs

Aquarius

Capricorn

Leo

CORRESPONDENCES

anxiety/panic attacks

balance

banishing negative energy

calming

channeling

clarity

cleansing

communication

concentration

divination

energy

energy work

enhancement

focus

healing

information

inspiration

learning

love

manifestation

meditation

memory

mental clarity

protection

psychic abilities

psychic powers

spiritual growth

stability

stress relief

studying

unblocking energy

wisdom

Other Colors

I'll be honest, I eventually gave up and fudged this section. There's just too many goddamn colors and variants, both natural and lab-made, of quartz. I officially give up.

Please do know that tourmalinated quartz will get its own post.

ANGEL AURA QUARTZ

CORRESPONDENCES

cleansing

AQUA AURA QUARTZ

ASSOCIATIONS

Zodiac Signs

Gemini

CORRESPONDENCES

divination

psychic work

AURA QUARTZ

ASSOCIATIONS

Entities

fae

BLACK QUARTZ

ASSOCIATIONS

Comets & Planets

Pluto

Saturn

BLUE QUARTZ

ASSOCIATIONS

Comets & Planets

Neptune

CORRESPONDENCES

afterlives/otherworlds

calming

divination

hope

reaching out

removing fear

sight

understanding

CHERRY QUARTZ

CORRESPONDENCES

anxiety/panic attacks

calming

CLEAR QUARTZ

ASSOCIATIONS

Comets & Planets

Earth

Moon

Uranus

Deities & Figures

Brigid (Irish)

Elements

air

Entities

fae

spirits

spring merfolk

Genders

nonbinary genders

trans femininity

trans masculinity

Zodiac Signs

Aquarius

CORRESPONDENCES

adaptability

amplification

anxiety/panic attacks

awakening

batteries

beauty

business/career advancement

clarity

cleansing

clear thinking

divination

dysphoria relief

elevation

energy

focus

freedom

funerary practices

gardening

goals

healing

health

honesty

intuition

learning

love

magical power

meditation

mental abilities

mental awareness

mental clarity

mental wellness

mourning

new beginnings

opening the mind

peace

permanence

physical energy

power

protection

protection from evil

protection from spirits

psychic abilities

psychic power

purification

removing obstacles

repelling negativity

restoring energy

spiritual awareness

spirituality

studying

transition

uncrossing

visions

wisdom

wishes

DOUBLE TERMINATED QUARTZ

CORRESPONDENCES

psychic messages

DYED QUARTZ

ASSOCIATIONS

Entities

fae

CORRESPONDENCES

change

deceit

lies

unwanted change

GOLDEN QUARTZ

ASSOCIATIONS

Deities & Figures

Apollo (Greek)

CORRESPONDENCES

afterlives/otherworlds

communication

healing at all levels

spiritual communication

GOLDEN RUTILATED QUARTZ

ASSOCIATIONS

Deities & Figures

Venus (Roman)

Entities

angels

CORRESPONDENCES

empowerment

energy

happiness

protection

protection from negative energy

stress relief

GREEN QUARTZ

CORRESPONDENCES

balance

creativity

stability

transformation

HARLEQUIN QUARTZ

CORRESPONDENCES

balance

expressing love

harmony

love

universal love

vitality

HERKIMER DIAMOND/QUARTZ

ASSOCIATIONS

Comets & Planets

Moon

Pluto

Sun

Deities & Figures

Nut (Egyptian)

Skadi (Norse)

Genders

nonbinary genders

trans femininity

trans masculinity

Zodiac Signs

Scorpio

CORRESPONDENCES

anxiety/panic attacks

calming

creativity

dream enhancement

dream work

dysphoria relief

energy

enhancing other crystals

learning

meditation

opening the mind

originality

stress relief

studying

LITHIUM QUARTZ

CORRESPONDENCES

cleansing

familial trauma

healing

healing of animals

healing of plants

neutralizing negativity

past lives

relieving underlying emotions

MILKY QUARTZ

ASSOCIATIONS

Comets & Planets

Moon

OPAL AURA QUARTZ

ASSOCIATIONS

Zodiac Signs

Pisces

PHANTOM QUARTZ

ASSOCIATIONS

Zodiac Signs

Capricorn

CORRESPONDENCES

past lives

RED QUARTZ

ASSOCIATIONS

Deities & Figures

Cybele (Anatolian)

RECORD KEEPER QUARTZ

ASSOCIATIONS

Entities

ancestors

ROSE QUARTZ

ASSOCIATIONS

Comets & Planets

Earth

Venus

Deities & Figures

Aphrodite (Greek)

Astarte (Semitic)

Bast (Egyptian)

Branwen (Irish)

Freyja (Norse)

Freyr (Norse)

Gaia (Greek)

Guanyin (Buddhist)

Hathor (Egyptian)

Isis (Egyptian)

Radha (Hindu)

Sigyn (Norse)

Venus (Roman)

Yemaya (Santeria)

Entities

deities (goddess)

fae

Elements

water

Genders

femininity

nonbinary genders

trans femininity

trans masculinity

Zodiac Signs

Aquarius

Cancer

Leo

Libra

Taurus

CORRESPONDENCES

alleviating loneliness

anxiety/panic attacks

attraction

beauty

calming

calming fears

cleansing

community love

compassion

confidence

divination

divine love

dysphoria relief

emotional healing

emotional support

emotional well-being

emotions

empathy

encouragement

fertility

fidelity

forgiveness

friendship

funerary practices

gentleness

happiness

harmony

healing

heart

intuition

joy

kindness

love

love of all kinds

mourning

new love

optimism

overcoming anger

peace

personal love

platonic love

releasing tension

romance

self-care

self-confidence

self-esteem

self-healing

self-love

self-transformation

sensuality

sleep

stress relief

unconditional love

warming

writing

RUTILATED QUARTZ

ASSOCIATIONS

Comets & Planets

Uranus

Deities & Figures

Guanyin (Buddhist)

Parvati (Hindu)

Entities

angels

Zodiac Signs

Gemini

Scorpio

Taurus

Virgo

CORRESPONDENCES

banishing

belief

clairvoyance

divination

hidden benefits

manifestation

passion

personal abilities

SCEPTER QUARTZ

ASSOCIATIONS

Zodiac Signs

Scorpio

SMOKY QUARTZ

ASSOCIATIONS

Comets & Planets

Earth

Pluto

Saturn

Deities & Figures

Aphrodite (Greek)

Astarte (Semitic)

Ereshkigal (Mesopotamian)

Hekate (Greek)

Thanatos (Greek)

Elements

air

Entities

spirits

Genders

nonbinary genders

trans femininity

trans masculinity

Zodiac Signs

Capricorn

Sagittarius

Scorpio

Virgo

CORRESPONDENCES

absorbing energy

adaptability

anxiety/panic attacks

attention

balance

banishing negative energy

calming

change

clarity

cleansing

clearing negative energy

death

dispelling negativity

divination

dysphoria relief

focus

funerary practices

grounding

healing

health

hidden/subtle change

inspiration

luck

lust

manifestation

mental awareness

mourning

organization

patience

power

protection

protection from nightmares

protection from spirits

psychic abilities

psychic power

purification

removing negative energy

sex

spiritual awareness

transformation

visions

warding

SNOW/WHITE QUARTZ

ASSOCIATIONS

Zodiac Signs

Aries

Capricorn

CORRESPONDENCES

change

cooperation

inner wisdom

learning

letting go

meditation

profound change

relaxation

revision

serenity

studying

tact

wisdom

SPIRIT QUARTZ

ASSOCIATIONS

Entities

spirits

Genders

nonbinary genders

trans femininity

trans masculinity

Zodiac Signs

Virgo

CORRESPONDENCES

dysphoria relief

grounding

growth

healing

peace of mind

protection

purification

spiritual evolution

spiritual growth

TANGERINE QUARTZ

CORRESPONDENCES

creativity

harmony

healing after psychic attack

healing shock/trauma at the soul level

past lives

positivity

soul retrieval

TIBETAN QUARTZ

CORRESPONDENCES

centering

deep healing

energy

grounding

healing

knowledge

meditation

purification

spirituality

[bloodycassian]

COLD NIGHTS - Cassian x Azriel x Reader - Prompt: 

hi i love your work so much!!! I was thinking a cassian x azriel x reader (i just love them sm, why have one when you can have two ) where the reader is sister of a high lord maybe day or winter court, and reader goes missing (kinda angsty) and her brother (a high lord) panics and goes to the night court for help (bc if her two bat boys can’t find her who will)  and az and cassian go full on panic mode and search for the reader, i was also thinking a fluffy cute ending where reader is just cuddling with azriel and cassian while her wounds heal take as much time as you need to write this, don’t pressure yourself. Take care lovely

Kallis would never forget the screams. The terror and panic that rushed through him when he realised that you were gone.  He sent half the city to search for you. He called upon Helion to inspect the magic. He was frantic in finding you. But it was like you had just disappeared out of nowhere. No sign of struggle, not a drop of blood spilled. The offender was sloppy in their ways, but their magic was strong. Helion could sense it.  They had a deathwish from Kallis himself if he ever found them. +  The first thing you saw were your cracked and bloody hands. They were split open from the dry cold wind. Sea air drifted into the cave. The cold brutal howling outside mixed with the roar of waves breaking confirmed your nightmares. Cape Tragedy. 

The islands off the coast of winter were known for their unforgiving nature to ships. Hence their name, Cape Tragedy. Also known as the Tragic coast, no stories were ever heard of any survivors of those crashes. If they had managed to survive the churning water, then the false salvation of the islands would kill them. It happened often enough that there were lighthouses set atop many of the bigger islands for ships to avoid on stormy days.

You coughed from the dry air, earning a pair of yellow eyes to dart to you. One of the three lesser fae males noticed you were awake and clapped. "She wakes! We've been waiting for you, sweetheart." His green skin was pale in the overcast light streaming in from the mouth of the cave. Snow Bear pelts lay all around. A disgrace in your culture. No citizen of Winter court would do such a thing. You looked to the walls to find weapons, and strange markings along the stone. Sailors from far away lands. 

Not even sailors. Pirates. A chill ran through you.  

"We're going to get your weight in gold, pretty one." The scaled male curled a piece of your hair behind you ear. Your stomach turned, and you tried to scoot away. "My brother will kill you first. And he'll take a long time doing it." You promised, trying to make your voice sound strong. Terror had you by it's grip though, and it was hard to do anything other than panic

. "Your brother? The pretty one that shears the Elk?" The green one asked. You laughed, and then were hissing in pain when the scaled male yanked on your hair. "What's so funny?" 

"You think my brother is an elk herder?" You spat "You must be dumber than you look." The males glanced between each other, then to the one who hadn't said anything yet.

"Who ye think you are then?" The male holding your hair stammered, trying to keep his panic under wraps. 

"Kallis' sister." You said with deadly calm. "And the high lord does not negotiate." 

"If you're so noble why you got such a mouth on ye?" The third male finally spoke.

They laughed.

"Maybe we will see just how much of a mouth-" He started again. He didnt have a chance to finish his disgusting words. You kicked, bending an ice spear straight up from the rocky ice floor and through the third male's body. Then the beating from the other two came. 

They bound your wrists and ankles in rope and tar. Their hands shook when they did it. It gave you a small bit of satisfaction. The potion they gave you to knock you out was just barely strong enough. You fought it as best you could, but it won. You could only hear the faint sounds of arguing then a crash of glass, then the cold winds whipping around you. And when you woke, your body ached.  The cold bit into your limbs. Your fingers were pale. Far too pale to be healthy. You knew frostbite when you saw it. Your body refused to move under your own power. Your blood was frozen to the icy ground. They had used a potion and transported you to a peninsula, and you could only faintly hear the ocean below. You could feel the potion wearing off, but you knew you weren't healing. Not yet. You reached down into your own mind, picking up the fading tendrils of power. Of your bond to the two you knew could save you. And you pulled as hard as you could manage.  --- "Fuck." The roaring thought shook Cassian awake. Bleary eyed, he glanced about the room as if there was someone actually shouting at him.  Then he felt it. The weak tug that had been silent for so long. And he knew it was nothing good. Frenzied, he met Azriel at the dining area. Where they spent the rest of the night planning, deducing a probable reason for you to be calling so weakly. They sent their worries to Rhys, but they were shooed away. "I'm researching. Meet me in the library at dawn." The two males tried to comfort each other. But the worry pulsating through the bond was too much to focus on. So they waited. Kallis appeared that morning. He spat his story and begged for help, practically in tears as he spoke to the three Illyrians. Cassian and Az knew something was wrong the moment you were attacked. Court laws forbade them interfering on Winter Court territory though.  As soon as the approval was given, the brothers winnowed to the border of Winter and started flying. + You were coming to terms that you would die in the cold. You had imagined death differently. Battle was the primary way you thought you'd die. Or at the end of a High Lord's magic for being too much of an advisor. Smiling at the memory of putting Tamlin in his place, you gave another tug down the bonds to your mates. And like a snap, they both tugged back. Almost in unison. It was hard to tell. You closed your eyes, listening to the soft waves below. They lulled you into a cold sleep yet again.  + Despite the cold, the Illyrians flew as fast as they could. They could sense your light fading, and chased it for mile after mile. Their wings cut through the harsh winter winds, fueled by rage and desperation. Then they spotted the dark figure frozen to the snow below. Cassian landed first, a few feet away. The ice cracked beneath him. "Get us out of here." He growled to Azriel.  "We need to make sure she's okay before we move."  Cassian growled, but didn't protest. Azriel understood. He felt the anguish and frustration through the shared bond. Az's hands pressed gently to your neck, checking your pulse. He swore. "Baby, we need you to wake up for us. We're here. We got you." Cassian put a hand to your cheek and fought back the tears that threatened.  You groaned in response. They both sighed in relief, their breath making clouds in front of them. "I'm stuck..." You managed through your stiff jaw.  Cassian stroked a thumb over your cheek. "Stuck? Honey you're-"  "Cas..." Azriel nodded to your side, to the ice that crept its way up your damp clothes. Azriel could have taken a very very long time torturing the beasts that did this to his mate. The rage coiled in his gut at the sight of your injuries. The only reason you hadn't bled out was the blood and water mix turning your wounds to ice.  Cassian pulled at the ice web that encapsulated you. Under the heat of his rage it broke, and broke and broke. Azriel placed small patches of his shield over your frostbitten fingers. "We're gonna get you out of here. Just stay still." Azriel smoothed back your hair, and darkness swirled over you. The change from the harsh overcast light of Winter court to the soft sun of Night court was jarring.  Madja put her hands on you and you were asleep in an instant. Her warm hands were a blessing from the Mother.  +  "She's lucky she has that Winter blood in her or she'd be dead." Madja wiped her hands off and handed both the Illyrians a small vial. "That is the scrap from a poisoned sword that broke off in her shoulder. I got all the pieces out, but the poison lingers. It may heal slowly, but it should get better."  Anguish burned both of their stomachs. Azriel's throat tightened and he looked away, but gripped the vial tightly. Cassian stared at it, his eyes murderous. Madja left without another word. "She was almost killed. And we couldn't do anything." Cassians' voice was low, with violence dripping from it. "We need her here. In Velaris where we can... watch her." He didn't know what he was saying, but the instinct to protect was overriding every other logical thought he had. Anger burned and burned in his stomach, swallowing him with rage. He could feel Az mirroring the same feeling, but with a cold deadliness that begged to simmer out of him.  "You know she wont go for that. She loves her home too much. Her brother." Azriel whispered back. "We're her mates. She should be with us." Cassian was looking for a fight. All the tension and anger of the day had to be worked out. Azriel felt it too. His shadows ran anxiously through the room.

The wind outside howled. It shifted the dark clouds that covered the moon. It seemed to be a cold day in all of Prythian. A cold day in your mates hearts to the pirates that had taken you. They spoke their rage mind to mind, imagining the ways to torture the bastards. 

How to find them would be the first priority. Azriel kept circling back to that part. + The healer cleared his throat at the door. "She's asking for you." He nodded to Rhys' brothers. They left Rhys behind in unison, walking in perfect step with each other. Their minds hummed together over that bond they shared with you. "Protect protect protect." They both seemed to demand.  Azriel knocked softly, his heart flipping when he heard your voice again. "Get in here." You demanded, giving them a broad smile when they practically shoved each other out of the way. 

"Come keep me warm." You weakly folded the blanket back, exposing some of the bruising on your skin. 

They complied with enthusiasm. Azriel's hands were cold at first, but they got better when he reached around you to hold Cassian closer. They worked in tandem to keep you covered, making sure that you weren't too crowded or too warm. Azriel summoned his cool shadows when you got too warm and had to kick the blankets off. Cassian's warm breath would keep you warm when they became too much. You traced Azriel's cheekbones, the sharp edge of his jaw while falling alseep. Cassian's muscled forearms hugging you from behind were like a heavy pillow. 

"Rest now, we can have more fun later." Az winked, making your stomach flutter. Cassian groaned and pulled you further to his lap. You tried not to think of the hardness that pressed to you now.  "Goodnight." The shadowsinger kissed your forehead and like a light, you were out. Finally resting peacefully wrapped between your two mates and their warm bond you all shared. 

[theonemarvelousness]

An Old Dream

Snow. Snow covers the field. Snow, and blood stains the white. Bodies lies motionless. Broken blades, scars of magic--it's a battlefield. He's not sure how he got here, but the horror sinks into his bones, as does the cold. Where is he? Why is he here? And how?

The young man walks, looking around to only see the dead. There are no wounded left, and he hopes they were removed to safety instead of...

A terrible reality.

There's the sound of a blade, but he doesn't yet put his hands on his own. More drawn to the sound of it--and soon the sound of a slain foe dropping into the snow. The silence after is eerie.

It's when he first sees the figure, a dark cloak tattered, blood staining the blade he's cleaning off with the fabric. Armor, dark as the night, covers his form, also marred red. The thick hair tumbles down--with tell-tale points. The slender, tall form is clearly victorious. But... his gaze razes; blood red eyes meet his own. Oh, this youthful figure Silver well recognizes. "Fa--" He starts, and in a flash of movement a blade is to his throat. Silver's hands raise defensively. No, to show that he means no harm.

"Why would a warrior not have his blade drawn?" The not-so-ancient Nightmare General asks.

"--I--fa--" He responds clumsily. He has never seen him like this. Yes, he's beheld the frightening figure before during Halloween but never has he seen him bloody in battle. He doesn't--it's--

But there's surprise on the fae's face. The blade only drops slightly. Blood red eyes now curious. "You understand this tongue?"

"I-it's my mother tongue." He clumsily replies.

The Nightmare General blinks rapidly, sudden realization in his eyes, his blade lowered, and put away. "A dreamwalker."

"What?"

"This is only a dream." There's relief in the fae's voice, as he looks around the battlefield. "No. A nightmare." The gaze turns back, the figure frowning. "And who are you, boy?"

"S-silver."

"Silver... like your hair." A wry grin across those lips, that usually smile at him so brightly. "Your family name?"

"...Vanrogue..." He mumbles. Hands finally lowering. This is his father from a long time ago--in an old memory.

There's a pause, and a shocked, startled look. The fae comes forward, hands pressing to his cheeks, looking into his eyes. Aural meeting blood--he wonders what the fae sees as he pulls back. "Come, then. You must want to wake up--and I know I do as well."

"What's... happening here?" He asks, immediately following the figure he knows so well, and now, not at all.

His father pauses, looking over his shoulder. "My kingdom was invaded--our's perhaps, our, I should say. I have merely finished taking out the invading force." A hand pressing to the old fae's side. But he's not that old at all.

Silver looks at it with worry. "You're hurt."

"Nevermind it, boy. It is... a dream. It only hurts in memory."

But he's still concerned. He's never seen his father actually injured before, either. "But--"

"What a tender heart you have. Curious." The fae's head shakes, as he heads further, through bodies, through the fallen, with little--it's not that he's disregarding them, it's that it's clear Lilia Vanrogue is well used to carnage.

"Where are the others?"

"Escorting the Queen to safety."

"You're alone?"

"I was the only one needed. I am going to check on the homes that are nearby, to make sure the fae fled, and what damage might be there--even what cowards fled to hide, too."

"Are you..."

"*his is war, Silver. They forfeited their lives when they entered my home."

"--Is--"

"There is no room for mercy. Living children of men spared come back in a generation for vengeance. To remove them all here is a lesson. It is something you should learn of your own kind, despite the tongue you speak." The words are harsh. He's... never heard his father speak like this before, either. Not in such a tone.

"...You're right..."

"A pity I am. Perhaps one day, I will be wrong."

The landscape shifts.

"Ah. Good. I hope I am waking." The fae stops, seeing the landscape warp horridly. "May I not dream of these things again." Lilia turns to Silver with a smile, but it's bitter. "May your tender heart be the future, Silver."

Silver wakes with a start to the sound of many alarms. A hand comes up to touch his cheek to find tears.

He doesn't know what to do, but it was only a dream... right?

[celestialarchon]

Celebrating 1k+ Part 1: Zhongli x gn!reader

Crossover: Ancient Magus Bride

content: fluff, little bit of angst, romance

warning: themes of depression and mental illness, alluding to suicidal tendencies

The bath water was warm, soothing your inner turmoil and washing away the stress in small tides. What a day it had been, selling yourself off in an auction was strange enough but the man or creature that had purchased you was even weirder. As the auctioneer had said beforehand, you didn’t care about your own life, it didn’t matter who you were sold to. Even so, you were taken back by the sudden dragon like skull that appeared before your face on stage, bidding unreasonably high and sweeping you away in a noir cloak to his home. Calling you his apprentice, he had immediately invited you into his home and insisted you bathe.

Your thoughts were interrupted by a giggle, your neck snapped up and you were face to face with a strange creature. The creature was human like but much smaller with wings and long claws on it’s hands and fingers. It’s face was boyish, framed by two braids with traces of green and blue in its hair. Patterns of dandelions danced on it’s skin.

“Hello, sunshine,” his voice was clear as day, like a melody in the wind.

“What are you?” You breathed out.

His pointed ears twitched and he grinned, “I’m Venti! A wind spirit of course, nice to meet ya! ehe.”

“I see,” you tilted your head, remembering that Zhongli had told you it was impolite to call the fae as fae but to refer to them with familiarity. “Are you a neighbor?”

Two other humanoid creatures peered from behind Venti, the same viridescent wings sprouting from their backs and gold dandelions printed on their skin. One’s hair was red and her skin was a darker hue of green than the others. The other was blonde with a ponytail held by a flower stem.

“You know, ehehehe,” Venti giggled, and flew down, kissing your cheek. “That Morax is no good! You’re better off with us, we could cherish you truly, little sunshine.”

The fae left with those words, leaving you to your thoughts. Sighing, you emptied the bath and dressed yourself as the door shook gently with a knock. The door swung open just as you pulled your shirt over your head, finally clothed. The man stood in the door way, his gold eyes twinkling as he praised you for being patient with him and cleaning up so well. He shifted his weight and pulled something from his pocket, offering it to you.

Shyly, you took a step towards him, allowing him to slip it over your head, he chuckled, “Good puppy, this is a protective talisman. It’s a stone called Cor Lapis that formed close to a river. Over time the water from the river wore down the stone and created a hole in the middle, if you look through it you can see a fae’s true form.”

He patted your head and led you towards your room. The silver lady, Ganyu, darted into the bathroom to take care of your soiled clothing. Ganyu was a silky, a type of neighbor who liked to do chores and she looked after the house for Mr. Zhongli. She had already taken quite a liking to you.

Zhongli sat down on the edge of your bed, tucking you in, “From now on you will be my apprentice, and I your teacher, (y/n).”

His deep voice made your heart flutter just a bit, and you turned over to avoid that calculating gaze he always held. The bed squeaked as he stood, his footsteps were heavy as he walked out of the room, gently shutting the door.

|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||

Zhongli watched your fragile figure walking away from the safety of his home and sighed, “I suppose this will make a good lesson.”

He creeped out, following you and hiding in your shadow. Venti was trying to persuade you to leave him. For some odd reason, this made Zhongli’s stomach twist up in a knot. Still, he maintained his composure and stayed hidden from the view of the troublesome fairy and you.

“Where are you from?” Venti asked you.

“A land far from here,” You sighed, “I was passed around by relatives so I was all over the place.”

“Oh?” a crooked smile formed on the fae’s lips, “Were they kind to you, sunshine?”

You grimaced, “It is.. hard to remember. But I think if I was loved by them and did love them I wouldn’t be here at this moment.”

It grew quiet as the fairy led you further into the forest. Zhongli was beginning to grow restless. You stopped and Venti turned to look at you, still hyper. He beamed at your emotionless face.

“We’ve been walking for so long, I might get lost,” Your eyes moved to the side.

“It’s fine!” Venti cheered, “You don’t have to go back there now. We have to go far to get to our land, and the others want you so badly you know.”

“What?”

“Ehe!” Venti grinned even wider as a gold light began to shimmer behind him, “There it is. A place for us, it’ll be lots of fun and we want you with us so bad, my sunshine. It’s okay, nobody’s waiting for you. You can come with me, come with us!

He continued, “Come along now, sunshine. Won’t you come with me?”

“It’s true that there wasn’t anybody waiting for me,” You began, seemingly entranced by the melodic words he spilt, “But..”

You swatted the floating boy away from you and stepped back. Your hand flew to your head as the forest around you spun. It wasn’t right. This wasn’t where you were supposed to be.

Venti screeched as you stumbled, “Sunshine! What’s wrong?”

“I don’t care if he throws me away.” You whispered, “Mr. Zhongli gave me a home and has taken care of me. He called me his apprentice and said he’d care for me like a family. Even if he does get tired of me or get rid of me, it’s okay. He’s already done enough for me.”

“Well, it seems my puppy already knows where home is,” Zhongli’s deep voice rumbled in your ear as he wrapped his arms around you.

“Morax! Eh? How did you find us?” Venti cried out, scowling.

Zhongli’s fingers went to your necklace, fidgeting with it as he held it in the palm of his gloves, “You see, this puppy did need a collar and bell if you would. It’s not as if somebody like myself wouldn’t notice a place so full of magic and energy like this.”

Venti shrieked in anger, flying off into the light. Shame filled you as you turned to your master, head down. He chuckled and patted your head, pulling you closer to him. His strong arms wrapped around you and your feet left the ground, a panicked gasp left your mouth as he carried you in his arms.

“Let’s go home now,” His long hair tickled your face.

You nodded in response, still taken back by his sudden affectionate side. He was a strange man.

“You have a scratch on your arm,” His eyes were piercing as they stared at the wound you hadn’t even noticed, “I’ll have to take care of that when we get home. As your future husband, I can’t allow you to get scars so easily.”

“Huh?” You grunted, craning your neck to look at him, “Husband?”

“Ah, I forgot to tell you. You are my apprentice but you are also to be my bride and I your husband.” He spoke with a straight face, his eyes never wandered from the path as he continued towards the house.

Your eyes widened, “Whaaaaat?!”

||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||

Zhongli had insisted you find a familiar, and you had. Xiao was a wonderful familiar although quiet. Most of the time, he was in his doglike form just trailing behind you. Occasionally he’d switch to his humanoid form to gobble up some almond tofu. You sincerely cared about Xiao, and he you.

Zhongli, however, didn’t seem as happy about this. He had locked himself in his room for days now. You knew he was exhausted from the battle against Signora and her experiments at the church but still, you were worried. Silver had begun to grow worried too, frantically checking on the strange man constantly.

“Zhongli?” You knocked on the door, waiting for a response.

The door opened but before you could react, you were pulled into the dark room and heard the slam of the door shutting. From outside you could hear Xiao panicking and calling out for you. Zhongli was sitting in the dark, still stuck in a partial draconian form. You could feel his claws digging into your skin as he growled.

“Why?” His voice shook as he buried his head into your shoulder, “What is this?”

“Zhongli, what’s wrong?” Your hands brushed his, gently trying to pull his claws from you.

His grip grew tighter and you winced in pain, “Why are you spending so much time with him? Cant you tell I miss you? Why can’t you see I need you right now?”

“Zhongli,” Your voice shook, “You’re hurting me. Stop it.”

He removed his hands from you abruptly and pushed away from you, his back on the wall. Your eyes had finally adjusted to the dark room and you could see the outline of his body. He had horns sticking out of his head and a long spiked tail. His hands were almost normal but his nails were long and sharp like claws. Every so often a forked tongue would make its way past his lips. His expression was confused, lonesome even.

Taking a deep breath, you crawled towards him, pushing yourself closer to him. You faced him, taking his face into your hands and making his cold eyes look at yours.

“I think,” You squished his cheeks gently, “You are jealous.”

He frowned, “What is jealous?”

“Jealousy is a feeling. It’s when you care about somebody and you don’t want to share them. You want them to look at you, spend time with you, and care for you instead of others. It’s a feeling us humans feel a lot.”

“Hm,” He grunted, “Is that what this is?”

You chuckled, he was like a child in your hands right now. You pulled him closer, feeling the sigh of relief he let out at your embrace.

“Zhongli, you’re feeling new feelings and that’s okay. If you’ll be my magic teacher, I’ll be your human teacher, okay?” You squeezed him in your arms.

“Okay.” He agreed quietly.

For a moment, the two of you stayed like that. Holding each other in the darkness, both of you were at peace even momentarily.

“You wanted me to have a familiar,” You kissed his cheek lightly, “As a part of my training. Xiao and I will spend time together often now. But you are my husband, my master, and that hasn’t changed. I promise, Zhongli.”

You pulled back to look at his face. He was blushing slightly which made a snicker leave your lips. His hair was loose and wild and his eyes were no longer empty but full of longing and adoration. The two of you had already seen so much together, your heart thumped even harder thinking of all the moments you’d spend together.

This man had taken you in and taught you magic. He’d sworn to save you from your curse of a short life span. He’d given you so much love and kindness. The time the two of you had spent together had only been a few short months but it filled you with joy.

His amber eyes bore into you, you could feel your face heating up as he continued to examine your infatuated expression. His palms trailed up to your face, and he pulled your lips onto his. The kiss was warm and sweet, innocent even.

“You are mine.” He whispered.

|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||

“Where’s (y/n)?” Lumine peered at Xiao.

“With Zhongli in the garden,” Xiao grumbled, “Why’d you bring this brat?”

Lumine laughed as Aether climbed Xiao. She has brought cookies to share with her friend. Aether had also wanted to see the two who had saved them both only a year ago. Aether was obsessed with Xiao and his teal hair and tattoos.

Lumine smiled at Ganyu as she walked towards the back door. Ganyu nodded and opened the door for the young woman, letting her outside. It was a beautiful day, not too chilly and not too warm. The sun shone down and the blonde could hear your laughter from down the cobblestone path. She followed the sound, excited to see you.

As she approached the garden, she stopped seeing Zhongli twirl you around. She felt breathless seeing the two of you dancing in the sunlight. His long hair shimmered as he spun you around and caught you in his arms. The rings on your fingers twinkled and Zhongli took a flower and tucked it behind your ear. The tall man planted a kiss right on your lips and turned to Lumine, winking at her.

“Hey!” Lumine waved at you and Zhongli, “You’re finally back from the honeymoon. I brought cookies for you guys. Congratulations!”

You grinned and waved back at her. Lumine was overcome with bliss at the sight of your smile. Zhongli had really helped you grow more confident and you had opened him up more. The three of you ate cookies and laughed as Xiao barreled out, chased by Aether.

“Oh! How many kids will you have?” Lumine wiggled her eyebrows at you as you laughed at Aether.

“Kids?” Zhongli turned to you as you flushed at the question.

Lumine nodded, “Yes, when couples get married they usually have children and start a family.”

“Oi,” you laughed nervously, “We’ve only just got married..”

“Children would be nice,” Zhongli looked at you expectantly.

Xiao cackled at your embarrassment. As your familiar he could feel those strong emotions since you allowed him to. You glared daggers at the adeptus, but he only smirked. This was your karma for laughing at him while a child harassed him.

“Lots of them,” Zhongli muttered, “A big family.”

Your face only grew redder. Lumine laughed and Zhongli looked confused. You all spent the rest of the day talking of the future and munching on cookies.

[jangmi-latte]

Hi Chii! This is for the TWST ANNIVERSARY, and scenario format is fine. Main focus line is Silver: “You want to study together? You work really hard.” Next character is Riddle: “Have you been to the library yet? You should definitely stop at least once sometime. There are a lot of books you’d fine useful there.” Oof, that was a lot, and hopefully I did this right, if not I can always resend it if you’d like! ~🍒cherry nonnie

╰──➢   “ You want to study together? You work really hard. ”

❥ cherry nonnie, is everything alright? you’ve been making me smile from your asks but i understood you on your first ask <3. may our waiters, silver & riddle rosehearts, treat you with this anniversary special dessert!

“Oh, hello there.”

He greeted you with a gentle smile; no it wasn’t Silver, it was his father. You-- a young-second year no older than seventeen -- bowed at the older mage in a sign of respect. 

“Good afternoon, Mr. Vanrouge! I assume Silver already told you about my arrival?”

“Of course he did,” tittered the old fae as he let you in. “He surprisingly woke up earlier than he usually does.” Lilia led you towards the lounge of their shared home within the Valley of Thorns. 

“Oh, one more thing--” he opened the door to the lounge, “--avoid the second floor for now. Malleus is still asleep. We wouldn’t want to disturb him. Though, I trust you and Silver to keep it down with whatever you two plan to do today.”

You nodded, going inside after thanking him. Your eyes scanned the room in wonder. The Valley of Thorns’ common interior design always held dark colors. The only exception is when one of the home’s residents is light-colored, y’know? Like, tousled silver hair scattered on the couch arm, maybe even a white turtleneck hugging his figure, his aurora-colored eyes closed for the world not to see, and his pinkish lips slightly open while soft even breaths blew out. 

And Lilia said he woke up early, yes?

“Silver,” you whispered out, looking over the door while folding your lips and looking back at the young man on the couch. “Silver,” you called out louder, nudging the said man until he groaned and opened his eyes.

As his eyes came to view, you leaned forward, waving at him with a closed-lip smile. “Good morning-- or should I say afternoon?” you giggled. Silver blinked, and blinked, and blinked. His brain slowly processed what happened until he recognized your face. Jolting up into a sitting position he rubbed his eyes as he muttered, “I fell asleep...again?” 

“Nothing I’m not used to. But I’m glad you actually waited for me.”

You sat on the windowsill across from him, and while you looked at the horses at the nearby stable, you heard him shuffling from where he sat. Still looking a tad bit drowsy, he watched as you swung your legs back and forth. “I wanted to ask for some help. You’re the only one who I can approach since, well, you’re the only one I’m closed with. I also believe you’re great at teaching.”

Confused, Silver stood up from the couch and stood beside you on the window, “You’re saying?”

“I want to study with you when it comes to horseback riding. I really need to ace my exam,” you said, gulping as you watched one of the horses run around freely. You were never confident around horses. Not that they scare you, it’s just because of their boisterous behavior. They can kick and probably trample over you if you don’t handle them properly. 

“You want to study together?” Silver mumbled, glancing at you while you nervously glanced at the horses. 

“If it’s no trouble, Silv. I just really need some help.” Your eyes met his. He could sense your determination despite the worry and nervousness in your system. He doesn’t doubt his horseback riding skills, yet he knew himself that he has more training to do. Maybe, both of you can learn something new together. 

“Alright,” he agreed, “Let’s head to the stables.”

The height of the horses baffled you. Horses are no stranger to the Valley of Thorns yet you never actually got a chance to come near one considering you never even needed to. Each horse held their own distinctive color; white, brown, black, spotted, and there was even one with a long white mane and a thick tail. It was beautiful. 

Silver caught sight of you staring at one of the attractive horses their stable owned. It was his horse. “Do you want to ride Cloud?” His hand caressed the horse’s snout -- the mammal exhaled as a response to the touch.

“Cloud?” you repeated, reaching out to gently touch her soft mane. “She’s so beautiful...”

“She’s a rare Gypsy Vanner. A gift from father when I first rode a horse. You could say she’s become a friend of mine,” Silver shared, and while you listened, a smile stretched on your lips. “Then you must really be fond of her,” you said.

“We grew up together, so to say.” Silver cleared his throat and opened the stable door, his hand tightly held the reigns as he let Cloud out of the stable. The way she lightly neighed, her little shakes of relief, and the way she nudged Silver made you giggle yet feel weary. What if she doesn’t like you? What if she ran too fast? 

“Don’t be scared. She doesn’t hurt anyone,” Silver reassured as he adjusted the saddle. “Anyways, what is your exam about?” You followed him towards the equestrian facility (the place where horses are trained), walking beside him as you eyed Cloud. 

“Just basic horseback riding training. Cantering, galloping, trotting…” you explained. Not that hard, yes? You don’t need to have Cloud jump over bars or make her do tricks. Just basic running techniques to pass your exam. Silver, is no doubt, surprised. It’s really simple. But what if you held another horse? 

He hummed, letting Cloud stand steadily, he reached out for your hand and led it towards the horse. “It’s important that the horse knows you. They need to trust you in order to listen to you. I don’t want you to make the same mistake I did before.” Your hand felt Cloud’s soft fur around her neck. It exhaled in delight, signifying that she knows you and would most likely trust you. 

“What did you do?”

Silver looked away embarrassed, he vaguely remembers the day like it was just yesterday. How could he forget the fact a horse nearly sent him flying just because he rode it immediately without even acknowledging the fact it’s a wild horse. Thanks to the Great Seven, Lilia and Malleus were there to calm the horse down and grab him before he got severely injured.

“It’s nothing… Come, I’ll help you up.”

Oh, to be aware of one’s touches must be quite a delight to both parties. You hooked your left foot around the stirrup while Silver held your hand as support while you lifted yourself up the horse’s saddle. Once you’re sat, he immediately kept Cloud steady as he looked up at you. “You good?”

You nodded, smiling down at the horse. “Good girl,” you cooed. 

Silver looked at the path ahead of you, he wondered --  should he ride behind you or hold the reins until you got the hang of it? You’re still a beginner and he could either lead you properly by riding along or just standing by. When he was young, Lilia would ride behind him on the horse and he would just learn by watching him handle the reins.

Think, Silver, think.

“Are you getting up? I really don’t trust myself with the horse when you let me handle her alone…”

There’s the answer.

And now he’s behind you with his hands on yours as you both hold the reins. Cloud was trotting on the dirt as gently as Silver ordered her to do. Though with your obliviousness -- more of just being focused on his guide -- you failed to notice the fact that the young man behind you is enjoying your company.

You would squeal out loud if Cloud decided to go faster or tightly hold onto his hand and lean on his chest if you felt like falling off. It was hard not to find you adorable. And yet you’re still determined to learn. Back in NRC, he, Riddle, and Sebek would often yell at each other if one decides to flop. It’s not easy to handle horses, and yet you’re here handling Cloud well. Someday, you’ll ride another horse with confidence and just by yourself.

He tried to hop off the horse and let you handle Cloud on your own, maybe you aren’t the slickest or the fastest of learners, but you sure could control a horse now. Silver’s instincts were just as fast as he trained himself to be, almost running by your side when Cloud gets too excited with running.

He stayed so alert.

Hell, he didn’t even doze off in a while. 

“You work hard,” he praised you after you were able to halt the horse’s running smoothly. Both of you sharing a grin before proceeding with the next course. Hours and hours of practice, and you’re learning.

Lilia even forgot what in the living fuck he was boiling as he stared outside at the both of you. “Now, Silver didn’t tell me he had a little date.”

╰──➢   “ Have you been to the library yet? You should definitely stop at least once sometime. There are a lot of books you’d fine useful there ”

“I thought you would know the way around the Rose Kingdom since you live here,” Cater teased as he looked out the window of the train he and Riddle sat in. The younger boy scoffed and crossed his arms.

“I barely go out of my home. I’m even surprised you know the place more than I do. I know the area but not how to go there.” Riddle sighed, looking down at the phone on his lap once he heard it ring from a message.

A message from you.

That’s right; the only reason Riddle is heading somewhere with Cater was that you offered to visit a historical museum with him. The purpose of this little trip was for you to learn something in terms of magical history. Where’s the fun in just sitting down and reading in your bedroom when you can experience the said history hands-on?

Cater was there to accompany Riddle throughout the journey and would most likely explore his own way while you two converse about whatever question and lesson you had in mind. You knew Riddle was one of the top students in his school. You also knew he wouldn’t refuse an opportunity for him to teach you something he knows. 

When the train stopped, both students went off and down the museum just a few blocks away from the station. In front of the said museum was what Cater called: Riddle’s date. No, it was, in no way, a date. It was a simple study session. “Just in time, as always.” You stood up from the bench you were sitting on and met the two guys halfway. Cater had waved at you while Riddle looked at the exterior design of the museum.

It was a museum dedicated to the Queen of Hearts.

Riddle has been there a couple of times already. He has learned to love the place; though it's been a few years since he last visited. 

"I'll leave you two here. There's a mall near this place and I wanna look around. See ya, Riddle, y/n!" Cater waved as he walked away. Riddle’s eyes moved back to you, watching as you looked at the museum, "Let's head in!"

You thought, again, thought, that the museum would be bustling with people left and right considering how popular it was in the Rose Kingdom. However, the moment you entered its walls, there were only around fifteen to twenty-five people inside — for the most part, you were in the main lobby. 

"What are your concerns about?" Riddle began as he looked up at the huge statue of the Queen of Hearts situated in the middle of the lobby. Astonish were thee as you read the description of the queen. 

'The Queen had only one way of settling all difficulties, great or small. 'Off with his head!' she said, without even looking around.'

"She was very powerful, indeed," he said whilst he looked at the decoy of the queen's crown situated in a case. "Those who looked at her, or even heard her name, are terrified."

"What magic does she hold?" you asked, circling the statue as Riddle followed behind. 

"She holds great physical strength. As you can see—" Riddle pointed at the statue, "—she was big. Though some would label her as fat due to what Alice said, but in our school, she was mighty. I do wonder how she was able to grow so strong." He walked ahead of you and towards a painting. In that painting held the Queen of Hearts while she played croquet.

"Not only that. She aced in croquet and she ruled over her kingdom for how long. You could say she held authority no one could handle. Not even her own guards and husband." 

As he spoke, your legs brought you over the hallways that held marvelous paintings of the queen. He was just by your side the whole time. "You did say you were in a dorm that's named after her, yes?" you asked, looking over at him.

Riddle nodded. "The statue you saw in the main hall was the same statue that's near our school's entrance. It's only proper for her to be standing there. She is one of the Great Seven after all."

"And you're the dorm leader in that dorm. You also have her rules applied to your very dorm. Tell me, Riddle. Do you admire her?" You both stood in front of another glass case. This time, holding the Queen of Hearts' sceptre. A heart with a gold staff, not even a single speck of withering is shown. It looked so expensive and very antique. 

Riddle was quiet after you asked the question. Looking at him, you noticed how he stared at the queen's sceptre. Just above that sceptre was another painting of the queen, it was her on her throne with a villainous smirk on her face. It sent shivers down your spine.

"I do."

You faced Riddle once again. He had a serious expression on his face as he faced you. "She's the reason why I became the dorm leader that I am today. It was by my own choice to follow her rules and her doings. Not only for myself but for the sake of my dorm."

"Riddle..."

His voice held the authority of a dorm leader you never got to hear — considering as you go to different schools. You don't know how he is as a dorm leader, but judging by how he looked at the queen's painting, it's enough to convince you that he, Riddle Rosehearts…

Is the King of Heartslabyul.

The glass case that held the sceptre had a small hole — big enough to fit a hand or two — with a note above: 'Touch with precaution'. With a little bit of hesitation, you reached out and touched the sceptre. Warmth seeped through his hand as Riddle, too, reached out to touch the sceptre only for it to land on your hand. You both froze, staring at each other in surprise. It was he who pulled away first, cheeks painted as red as the hallway's walls. 

"H-Have you been to the library yet? We should definitely stop at least once sometime." He coughed out, looking away from you. "There are a lot of books you’d find useful there. Didn't you say you wanted to know more about the queen's history based on your topic for your exam?"

And he walked ahead. 

Your hand slowly moved to your chest after you let go of the sceptre. Looking down to your feet as you chuckled to yourself. Folding your lips as you covered your mouth and looked back at Riddle's walking figure. 

The Queen— well, King — of Hearts may have a temperament. But he sure can be admirable at times when needed… 

"Are you coming or not?"

© jangmi-latte, all rights reserved. Happy to Serve!

[tsunonotarou]

Torn

— Leona Kingscholar —

— Malleus Draconia —

notes — Inspired by @tri3tri ’s amazing Draconia Family Series! When I first found it I gave up sleep just to binge read all of them 🏃‍♀️🏃‍♀️

— This is actually a Leona centered fic but it was inspired by Malleus fics so I’m putting him there (´∀｀*)

— I didn’t write what exactly happened so you guys are free to interpret it however you guys want to!

— I deleted the 4k+ words draft that I worked on back and forth in exchange for this I hope it’s the right choice (´･_･`)

: female reader

wc: 1216

*Malleus is a yandere in this piece.

Your eyes searched for one among the crowd. One man. Hoping to meet summer green eyes and chocolate brown hair. Does he still have his braids on? Is his hair still long? Does he have a spouse now? Like you? Is he even here?

You doubt it. This isn’t something Leona would attend—willingly, anyway—but he said he invited the Kingscholars. Your husband had said so, which explains why you weren’t allowed to go anywhere alone in this party. You were glued to the king’s side, his hold on your waist was secure, tight enough to give you a constant reminder but not enough to raise suspicions as to how rough and possessive Malleus Draconia was of his queen.

For an instant, you thought you saw someone familiar drift through the crowded area, heading towards one of the doors, the doors that led to the outdoor garden. You would’ve convinced yourself that it was your eyes playing tricks on you but that person’s destination tells you otherwise.

Of course, he wouldn’t be the only one to want to go to a garden—out of this suffocating place—but you were too impatient to care. You wanted to see him.

Besides, who else would give up a chance to meet and talk to the king of the Valley of Thorns? Only he would. People were surrounding the two of you and it was uncomfortable, hearing loud chatters and high pitched laughs.

The king is in need of urgent businesses, you heard one of the guards muttered, and your heartbeat quickened at this information. Secretly hoping for his arm to drop and leave your side.

It did, and you immediately took off to find that person after making sure Malleus was out of the room. Lilia was busy with guests, too. You have no eyes on you currently, it was a relief.

You hadn’t known how exhausted and out of breath you were until your footsteps halted, standing on healthy green grass instead of marble floors and having the evening breeze caress your skin. Your heart was hammering in its cage and you could feel how fast it was beating, how frantic it was. How your hands shook no matter how you try to calm them by clenching and unclench.

There was no one.

You were ready to head back but just a little more, just a little more of searching after all these years. After all that’s happened. You don’t need a conversation, you don’t need to reminisce, just one look, one look and you’ll be satisfied to know how he’s doing—

A surprised sound left you—it was ugly and embarrassing—as you instinctively stepped back, you could still feel the softness of— whatever it was that you stepped on just now.

What has gotten into you? You weren’t this clumsy before but you have been a mess ever since this day came.

“Tsk...getting forced to come to this stupid party and then having my tail stepped...what is wrong with today?”

Huh?

Clammy hands clenched the front of your dress, gaze slowly cast down, seeing a swishing tail and you followed them, seeing familiar Afterglow Savannah robes.

“Oi, woman. You’ve got some nerves stepping on my tail and not apologize.”

Isn’t this a little familiar?

You sucked in a deep breath, not realizing you were holding them in. Leona took it upon himself to step back a little after he stood to his full height, you’re a little close and you don’t look like you want to get away any time soon.

Weird. Leona thought. Have I met her?

Nonetheless, he was still annoyed at your behavior. Standing there doing nothing but gaping at him like he’s some—

“Leona.”

There was something about the way you called his name. Something that made him pause in his place, feeling something but never getting enough information on just what it is.

Your lips trembled and your head quickly bowed, refusing to stare any longer, couldn’t bear to stare any longer. Leona thinks you’re gripping the fabric of your dress a little too tight. Are you alright?

“I’m sorry for stepping on your tail.” The words were out quick but Leona never misses the shakiness in one’s voice, his hearing is exceptionally good, after all.

This doesn’t look normal. This whole situation doesn’t. Leona feels like he’s missing something but he doesn’t know what, and this feeling frustrates him to no end.

He scoffed. “You know me?” He was surprised that someone even knows his name. “Of course I know you.” You said it matter-of-factly, a little too quick.

Leona hummed, shifting his weight to one side as he rested his hand on hip, raising a brow at the lady before him, your eyes hesitantly came up to observe.

He was still the same. You wanted to smile but you probably shouldn’t. You kept them in and for a moment you two enjoyed the silence shared. Leona doesn’t know why he haven’t walked away.

He wants to ask something. Should he? It would be weird, wouldn’t it? No, who cares? He wants answers so he’ll get them.

“Have we—”

“My love.”

Leona growled at the interruption, by him, moreover. His eyes followed Malleus’ arm that snakes around your waist, pulling you close and sending a smile your way.

Malleus turn to face him and Leona could feel his eye twitch in annoyance, he wanted to not meet him, despite being in his territory, he just wants everything to get over with.

Suddenly he doesn’t feel the urge to ask you anything anymore.

“And what business do you have with my wife, Kingscholar?” Malleus emphasized the word, as if fearing his intimate actions towards you weren’t enough to show signs. Leona rolled his eyes.

“Nothing of your concern.” He retorted. Leona had to conceal his surprise at the news. As far as he knows, the Valley of Thorns doesn’t seem to fancy talking about their queen a lot—unlike Afterglow Savannah where both are mentioned and deeply respected.

He also heard rumors that the queen was once a magic-less human being forced turned fae, hence receiving disapproval. How absurd.

“I’m leaving. You’re ruining my mood.” Leona directed the words to his former schoolmate before casting one last glance at you. He walked away, you were silently pleading him not to.

The coast was clear. No one to bother, no one to eavesdrop, no one to interrupt.

“What do you think you’re doing?” Malleus questioned coldly, staring down onto your trembling form on the ground as tears flowed uncontrollably. It’s been a while since he’s seen you being this emotional. It ticked him off, knowing that another man was able to make you feel this much. “Get up, we still have guests to entertain.”

You didn’t move, so Malleus kneeled on one knee beside you, leaning close to your ear before whispering: “I hope you hadn’t forgotten what happened three years ago, and what I am capable of.”

That seems to do the trick, as you have stopped your childish tantrums and finally took his hand to stand back up. Malleus wiped the tears from your cheeks tenderly, his touch ever so cold to you.

“I will discipline you regarding your behavior later. Now, come. Do not make me use force.”

[house-of-galathynius]

Only You ~ Rowaelin

A Rowaelin fanfic, set if Aelin’s parents had lived and she had met Rowan under normal circumstances, if Erawan and Maeve weren’t threats. Hope you enjoy!

@jesstargaryenqueen @sailorsassley @sjmships @tomtenadia @endlessdaydream @aflickeringsoul @tillyrubes10 @fredweasleyhasadhd @rowaelin-cressworth @cookiemonsterwholovesbooks @rowaelinismyotp @rosegoldannie @maryberry @viajandosinalas @becarefuloflove @allthebooksunderthemoon @sheharahu @swankii-art-teacher @superspiritfestival

Chapter Thirteen ~ Burning 

Chapter Twelve ~ Chapter Fourteen 

“We need to make sure invitations are sent to all royal families across the continent. If we send them now we should receive answers in enough time.” 

Aelin had been sat at the table with her mother, Lysandra and Elide for over four hours. Her mother had requested she join her for tea in the morning room, Aelin had happily agreed, hoping that maybe they could talk over everything; but when she had entered the room she immediately wanted to leave again. Strewn over chairs, tables and any workable surface were swathes of fabrics, utensils, flowers and cakes— you name it and it was probably there. She had known this would be something that had to be done… but Gods above. She had been too slow to march out of the room again; her mother had spotted her too quickly and a smile had lit up her face as she gazed upon Aelin. She had ushered Aelin into a seat and declared that now was the perfect time to organise everything. Lysandra and Elide had joined an hour later, managing to escape the worst of her mothers excitement. 

“Perhaps we should send invitations to the Southern Continent too? They are never too bothered with the goings on here, but it would be polite.” Her mother was scrambling for the ink and paper, adding to the ever-growing list of people she wished to invite. 

“Mamma, is this really necessary?” Aelin picked at the lavender fabric that had been placed on her lap, waiting for her to inspect it and share her opinion. 

“I know you would rather go down to the priest in your fighting gear and be done with this all, but you are required to have a wedding fit for a queen, so we shall give you one.” Her mother lent over to Elide who was studying a selection of flowers. 

Aelin brushed the fabrics from her lap and stood, pouring another cup of herbal tea. “I’m just saying that we don’t need to invite everyone for both a mating ceremony and a wedding. Rowan and I would much rather have a mating ceremony just the two of us.” She assumed anyway. The two of them hadn’t discussed any of it in great detail. 

The three women looked up at her. 

“I just—“ she picked up then dropped a rose. “It’s all a bit much, no?”

“I think it’s exciting. We haven’t had a mating ceremony in years.” Elide was clasping a bunch of the flowers in her hands as she spoke. 

Lysandra said nothing and instead went to sit in one of the armchairs, her hands playing with the ends of her sleeves, being unusually silent.

Aelin tore her eyes from Lysandra and back to her mother and Elide. 

“I’m not sure Rowan is one for big displays of… well anything.” 

“I’m sure he’ll do whatever needs to be done, Aelin. Now sit, I want to see which colours are best.” 

Aelin was saved when someone cleared their throat at the door. She could’ve sighed in relief as she eyed Rowan. 

“Sorry to interrupt; but I was hoping to steal Aelin away.” 

Aelin took three steps when her mother stopped her. “We will be finishing this later. Don’t think you can get out of it.” 

She grinned at her mother and hastily exited the room, joining her hand with Rowan’s and heading into the crisp winter air. 

“Thank you for saving me. I was about to go crazy in there.” 

“Don’t thank me quite yet. I told your father and Orlon we were going to pick a place for the ceremony.” 

She groaned. “Why would you say that? I was hoping you were going to steal me away so we could hide in my rooms until dinner.” 

He nudged her side. “I needed an excuse to leave and I don’t think they would appreciate me telling them I was going to spend the rest of the day in your rooms with you.” 

Aelin blushed at that. 

“I also thought that we should get outside whilst we could. I was warned of the winters here, and if the storm last night is anything to go by...” 

She hummed in agreement. The two of them walking in comfortable silence. 

It wasn’t long before Aelin began to speak again. “I don’t see why we need two big celebrations.” She groaned. “A mating ceremony, to me, is meant to be private.” 

He squeezed her hand. “When I was younger—maybe two hundred years ago— mating ceremonies were one of the biggest celebrations. Whole towns would congregate, light huge bonfires, have feasts and dance until dawn, just to celebrate a couples mating.” They continued walking into the forest, “my mother used to tell me stories of her and my fathers. My mother came from a small village outside of Doranelle, when she mated with my father they had a party lasting four days.” 

“Four days?” 

He smiled. “The village was so small that it was rare for the people there to find a mate. Rarer than it is normally, at least.” 

They stopped to sit on a fallen tree overlooking part of the river.

“How did your mother and father meet?” 

“My father lived in Doranelle with the other Whitethorns, he was in charge of Doranelle’s army at the time. He had been sent on a mission to recruit more Fae soldiers. He found his way to my mothers village and knew right away that she was his mate.” 

Rowan’s face fell as he talked about his parents. She did not know where they were or what had happened to them, but seeing the anguish on his face made her heart break. 

“You don’t have to tell me.” 

He shook his head. “It’s fine. I just haven’t told the story in a long time.” Rowan shifted to face Aelin, her body twisting to face him as well. 

“My father stayed in the village, meeting my mothers family, managing to recruit a couple of Fae to join Doranelle’s army— training them whilst he was there. They were mated there and then moved to Doranelle shortly after.” 

“How long after mating did they have you?” 

“It was well over two hundred years. Full-blooded Fae find it difficult to have children. My parents tried for a long time. By the time they had me…” 

She kissed his hand. “I’m sorry.” 

“We got to be a family for fifty years.” His voice cracked. “My father faded first. My mother— she couldn’t cope with the pain of losing her mate, so she faded a year or so after.” 

Aelin felt a tear fall. Seeing him so vulnerable— it broke something inside of her. She didn’t know what to say, she hadn’t realised they had faded so soon. 

“It was a long time ago.” He wiped the tear that was rolling down her cheek. 

“I didn’t know you had such little time with them.” 

“I had enough. And the time we did have together was happy, so I cannot complain.” 

Rowan stood, extending his hand to her. She took it and they continued on their way. The forest had changed dramatically in such a short time, autumn had come and gone in a blink of an eye, the leaves now frozen and crunching beneath their feet. The trees bear as winter embraced the land. They zig-zagged through the forest path, turning down small tracks that had been forgotten for years, enjoying the peace that nature brought. 

The two of them walked in silence, Aelin thinking about Rowan’s family as they went. Rowan deep in his own thoughts. 

They followed a tall hedge that lined the side of the path, the branches thick. As they strode further along Aelin noticed an opening, big enough for someone to fit through. 

It was then that she remembered she had been here once before. She beckoned for Rowan to follow as she once again slipped through the gap. She had been here when she was fifteen. She had stumbled across the clearing by accident; she had been walking along the trail in the forest when she spotted an opening in the bushes. She had slipped through the gap and found herself in awe at the scene before her. 

The clearing had been small, but it had held such beauty that she could do nothing but take it in. Surrounding the clearing had been bushes displaying little white flowers, the floor made up of colourful wildflowers that swayed softly in the balmy summer breeze. To the right was a pool of shimmering water, stones lined the edges— like they had been carefully placed there by someone. The whole area had been bathed in streams of sunlight that filtered through the canopy of trees above; birds flittered from branch to branch, singing their melody as they did. Aelin had never seen anything like it. 

And even now, in the dead of winter; when the flowers were withered and the leafy canopy above gone, only the skeletons of the trees to be seen, she could still see that beauty. The winter sun still bathing the clearing in light, the water crystal clear and sparkling like a thousand little diamonds. 

“How did you find this?” Rowan asked. 

She shrugged. “I accidentally came across it a few summers ago. It became a sort of sanctuary then, somewhere to go when I wanted to be alone. I’d forgotten about it actually. I only remembered it when I saw the opening in the bush.”

She watched as he surveyed the space around them. 

“And you wanted to share it with me? Even though it had been somewhere secret?” He looked to her, eyes shining. 

“Of course.” She smiled. 

Rowan bent down to kiss her, her toes curling at the contact, her body warming. “Thank you.” 

She kissed him again in reply. 

They stood there for a moment longer, both enjoying the warmth of the winter sun on their faces. Aelin slipped her hand from his and walked towards the pool— which she had realised was magical after getting in and all her injuries had healed. She dipped her fingers in, dragging them in the water. 

She turned to Rowan. “Would you like to go in?”

“It has to be freezing in there Aelin. I might have ice as a power, but I’m not so keen on bathing in it.” 

She chuckled as she summoned her flame. “It’s a good thing your mate has fire powers so she can keep it warm.” 

“I like it when you say you’re my mate.” 

He came towards her, the bond tugging between them. 

“I’ll go in with you if you do something for me.” 

“Anything.” 

“Promise me you’ll stop trying to get me into your bed.” 

Aelin stepped out of his embrace and let out a laugh. “That’s your condition?” She laughed again. “I’ve done it once.” 

“You’ve done it more than that, Aelin.” He laughed along with her, stepping toward her and taking her in his arms. “I want to.” He placed a kiss on the top of her head. “I really want to. But I want to wait. I want to be able to enjoy you, to take our time. I want to be somewhere where we don’t have to hide or be quiet.”

She couldn’t help the heat that spread through her. “If you keep talking like that Rowan, I will have no choice but to start something right here.” 

“Don’t even think about it. Otherwise I will change into my hawk and fly away.” 

Aelin pinched his side then swatted his head, laughing as she did. 

“So going for a swim is off the cards?” 

“Maybe when it’s not the middle of winter… and when you can control yourself.” He winked. 

She stepped back into his embrace, her arms going around his middle as she laid her head against his chest; listening to the steady beat of his heart. The two of them enjoying the warmth of each other, listening to the quiet singing of the birds. 

“I understand why my mother couldn’t stand to be here without my father.” He murmured, resting his chin on the top of her head. “I try to imagine a world without you and it terrifies me. I try to think about what I would do, how I would begin to live without you here…” He pulled away to look at her. “I would walk through the burning heart of hell itself to find you.” 

She shuddered at his words, she wanted to reply— to say something— but all she could do was reach up on her toes and kiss him. Their lips melting together, their tongues finding each other and she moaned at his taste— better than anything she could ever imagine. The kiss full of love and of promises— of things to come. 

He would walk through the burning heart of hell itself, and she would do the same. Wherever he was, she would go, she would find him— in this world and the next. 

[seokjinsdisciple]

It’s a Deal - six

supernatural! johnny x reader x jaehyun,  mate!au

Word Count: 1.9k

sorry its been forever oops

tags: @thatonekpopsweater, @queen-of-himbos , @yourchasingsunsetslove, @a-brooding-bird

send me a dm or an ask to be on the taglist

warnings: language, supernatural stuff

<previous    six       next>

series masterlist

The next two weeks passed quickly and with relatively few problems. Well as little problems as you can have when two fae men move into your one bedroom apartment. You had started sleeping on the couch, due to the fact that both Johnny and JAehyun refused to sleep anywhere but the bed (you thought it was for comfort but you were beginning to think it was because they wanted to sleep with you), but every morning you found yourself wrapped in one of their arms, the others legs draped over your own. 

Jaehyun had signed up for classes, meaning that you saw the both of them pretty much everyday all day long. You had expected to be completely and utterly annoyed by the both of them, but you were actually starting to enjoy their presence. You were loving the fact that Jaehyun could get on Johnny’s nerves, the two of you often teaming up to annoy him. And Johnny had become much more relaxed than you had ever known him to be. 

Today was different, though. Jaehyun and Johnny were talking in hushed whispers from the kitchen when you woke up. Their voices weren’t quite loud enough to hear, but enough to make your heart beat faster. The idea of them having a conversation that you couldn’t be apart of twisting your stomach into knots. 

You were forced to remember the fact that they were faeries, and they had both tricked you in one way or the other. The past two weeks had helped you forget what you needed to remember. They couldn’t be trusted. 

With quiet footsteps and open ears you got as close to your bedroom door as you could. 

“I just don’t think it's a good time for her to go back there,” Johnny’s voice whispered harshly.

“I don’t think so either, but father is insisting, and I can’t say no.”

“This is all because you had to go and make her your betrothed. Which I’m still pissed about by the way.”

“Oh please brother, we can share,” Jaehyun’s whisper teased, “Such a pretty little plaything like her is too hard to resist.”

Johnny let out a loud grumble at that, his anger clearly causing him to forget that you were asleep. You decided to step into the room when a loud thump sounded against the wall. 

“What the hell is going on?” You asked, eyes widening at the sight of Jaehyun’s body being pressed against the wall and Johnny’s hand around his throat. At the sound of your voice Johnny dropped his hand, stepping away from his brother. 

“Don’t worry about it,” he spoke hastily.

“I’m all right, doll,” Jaehyun smiled at you, “Nothing but a little brotherly spat.”

“Well next time argue in the afternoon,” you sighed, “I’m tired.”

Jaehyun just let out a giggle at that, the heavenly noise something you hadn’t gotten used to in the past two weeks. It was a really beautiful sound, like a hundred little bells ringing softly. It was hard to describe really, and you had decided to attribute it to the fact that he was fae royalty. 

The rest of the morning was spent slowly getting ready, you wanting to go to the cafe to study, and Johnny and Jaehyun refusing to let you go alone. So you let them come, thanking every higher being out there that they actually stayed relatively quiet while you were doing your work. You had fully expected them to be bothering you and talking about useless things, but they were actually quite helpful. 

You had forgotten about their conversation earlier, so when they asked you to come with them back to the palace realized exactly why they had been so helpful. They knew you would never agree if you had work left to do, and if they had been annoying you all day long. 

“So that’s why you were being nice to me,” you laughed (mostly at yourself).

“Hey! We are always nice!” Jaehyun had protested, following quickly behind you and Johnny, who was currently dragging you towards the portal. 

“You both tricked me into deals and debts or whatever,” you glanced back at him, “You got me involved in confusing fae magic and also have been living in my tiny ass apartment without my permission.”

“Well if you moved into the palace that wouldn’t be a problem!” Jaehyun exclaimed, quickly pouting when Johnny shot him a look and you slapped him in the arm. 

“Before we go through, there’s one thing you have to know,” Johnny started, “You are being presented as a prince’s betrothed at a ball attended by lords and ladies from all of my father’s lands. There is considerable danger to you attending tonight, and I don’t want you to wander around without me or Jaehyun being with you.”

“Trust me,” you sighed, “I wasn’t planning on going anywhere by myself.”

Satisfied with your answer, Johnny motioned to both you and Jaehyun, the three of you stepped through the portal and into the faerie world. 

The palace was just how you remembered it, beautiful and so otherworldly that you were left breathless. Once again taking in the appearance of the fae around you and comparing it to your own appearance. You were worried about taking clothes for this party, you didn’t want to become indebted once again. 

“Don’t worry about that,” Johnny whispered, “I’ve taken care of your gowns, and I promise you I expect nothing in return.”

You couldn’t help but let out a breath of relief, not completely trusting Johnny's words, but still grateful he recognized your worries. 

“Stop reading my mind,” You added, a small grin forming on your face as Johnny sent a playful glare your way. 

You found yourself back in the room you had been in before, both boys leaving you with the same smiling fae to get ready. You carded through the dresses in your closet, swearing that there was at least two dresses for every color that had ever existed. You picked out a pretty emerald green dress, recalling just how good Jaehyun had looked in the color. The fae who were helping you quickly swarming you with jewelry and hair products and makeup. Fussing over every detail of your appearance. 

You smiled at yourself when they were done, you looked good. The dress hugging your curves, the jewelry they had picked out to match your dress shining brightly. You looked royal, and it was weird. But it felt good. 

You saw Johnny in the mirror, blush rising to your cheeks as his eyes raked over your body. He pressed his body close to yours, smiling at you in the mirror. 

“This isn’t fair,” he pouted, pressing a kiss behind your ear, “I’m taking you on a date after this.”

Goosebumps rose on your skin as his breath fanned close you the sensitive parts of your neck, his lips kissing down your neck until they reached your bare shoulder. 

“And what if I say no?” you barely choked out, trying your hardest to hide just how much this was affecting you. 

“You won’t,” he smiled, biting your shoulder so lightly that you could barely feel it, “You’re mine, not his.”

“I’m not yours,” you whispered, grinning as a noncommittal noise left his mouth, shrugging his arms  around your waist and resting his chin on your shoulder, “Stop being so horny and take me to this stupid party. I wanna get it over with.”

Johnny just laughed at that, pressing one last kiss on your shoulder as you swatted him away. 

“Hopefully this party goes better than the last,” he smiled at you, “I think I’ll lose my mind if another fae tricks you.”

“Shut up,” you groaned, “It was twice!”

“Once too many, now c’mon. Jaehyun’s gonna lose his shit if we don’t get into the ballroom soon.”

--

You were the center of attention all night. Dancing, twirling, getting drunk and eating all while talking to hundreds of fae. All of them wanted to meet the pretty human girl who had captured Jaehyun’s heart. You tried not to be offended when they asked you directly. 

You kept your promise of staying near the boys for the whole night, the thought of another fae tricking you enough to listen to them. They pulled you out of the dances when it seemed like you couldn’t stop. Telling you what to eat and drink and even giving you your own special bottle of liquor. Johnny explaining to you that fae alcohol would make you extremely happy and unbearably out of control. 

But now here you were, drunk, tired and needing to pee. You excused yourself from the boring fae you had been sitting with, stumbling out of the ballroom in order to find the bathroom. 

You bumped into a rather lanky man, attractive (as most faes were), but lanky nonetheless. He caught you as you stumbled, shooting you a dazzling smile as you stared at his face. 

You must be YN,” he let out a light laugh, “It’s so good to finally meet you. I’ve heard so much about you.”

“You have?” you asked, your mind completely fuzzy as you smiled dumbly up at him. 

“Of course,” he grinned, “Now that I’m seeing you I understand why you are so hard for all these boys to resist. I’d quite like to take a bite out of you myself.”

His grin had turned almost wolfish, his grip tightening on your shoulders. You had started to panic, his earlier friendliness disappearing as he pulled you tight against him. 

“Taeyong,” Johnny’s voice rang out behind the man’s form, “I thought I made it clear to Doyoung that no one from his territory was allowed to be in attendance.”

“Oh don’t be such a bore,” Taeyong snapped, releasing you from his grip and spinning to look at Johnny, “We were just talking.”

“I’m sure you were,” Johnny spoke, his words sharp as he tried to keep his cool, “Get out of the palace Taeyong. And tell Doyoung that the next time he sends a puppet to do his bidding, their heads will be sent in a box to his estate.”

Taeyong was grinning now, bowing lowly before turning back to you, “I’m sure I’ll be seeing you again, Yn. Can’t wait,” he shot you a wink before walking towards the entrance of the palace. 

“Are you okay?” Johnny asked, rushing over to you and pulling you into his arms.

“I’m fine,” you whispered, wrapping your arms around Johnny’s body. 

“I told you to stay with us,” Johnny lightly scolded, pulling you away so that he could take in your appearance. 

“I know,” you whispered, tears burning at your eyes, “Would he have hurt me?”

Johnny didn’t answer you, he just pulled you close and held you tight. His calming scent filling your nose and slowing the pounding of your heart.

[wistfulcynic]

Self-promo Sunday: Ficlets

It's hard sometimes to remember the titles and authors of fics we've read, and even harder when those fics are part of a collection. So for Self-promo Sunday I've put together a table of contents for my Ficlets collection. All the ficlets have titles, but those don't always give much of a clue to what they're about. All of these are shortish, 700-1500 words, so if you're looking for something quick to read before bed or whilst waiting in a vaccine queue, say, there may be something here for you.

Chapter links are all to the Tumblr posts. AO3 link is here.

1: This time, pancakes

IN WHICH Snow interrupts the pancake scene a few minutes earlier than she did in canon, late enough for things to have got well underway. There is a hint of voyeurism here but nothing salacious, it's mostly Snow's internal monologue. Sweet and just faintly smutty. Rated M. 800 words.

2: Captain Duckling Abduction

IN WHICH Princess Emma is abducted by pirates. Or is she? This eventually became the (sadly still unfinished, yes I know) Drink the Wild Air, so you can see how that got started. 800+ words. Rated T.

3: She and Mr Jones

IN WHICH we have "whoops I accidentally slept with my son's teacher," a little-used trope that I actually really like. Smut with feelings, a dash of Captain Cobra. 1200+ words. Rated M.

4: RELEASE THE KRAKEN

IN WHICH Emma and Killian have a rescue dog with an interesting personality quirk. Based vaguely post-S6 in a world with no S7 (and no S6 either if we're honest, it is The Season That Shall Not Be Named). Pregnant Emma, sweet Killian, adorable dog. Rated G. 900+ words.

5: A Soulmate Thing

IN WHICH Emma attempts a bar hookup and meets her soulmate. Based on this prompt:

anonymous asked:

Smutty prompt! A friend of mine (not on Tumblr) had a Soulmate AU idea where your soulmate's "naughty bits" fit perfectly with yours, like puzzle pieces lmao. Not a smutty writer myself, so I'm not sure how to even begin, but I thought I'd see if any CS fans wanted to give it a go!

1k+ words, Rated M/E

6: Five Times

IN WHICH Emma sees Killian five times, and what happened next. Bailbonds Emma, bartender Killian (sort of). Neighbours. 1200+ words, rated T.

7: Coitus Interruptus, Part One

IN WHICH Emma just wants to have sex with her husband, but the fates have other plans. I really do intend for there to be a part two of this, if the muse would ever see fit to cooperate. Anyway, it's a smutty little 1k, rated E. Canon compliant, more or less. Married CS.

8: A Midnight Clear

IN WHICH we revisit Emma and Killian from To Keep It All the Year, ten years later. It's not strictly necessary to read that first, just know this is modern AU E&K, married ten years, with a 12-year age gap between them. Christmas Eve smut in front of the fire. 1.3k, rated M.

9&10: Instagram Official, parts one and two

IN WHICH TV star Emma and musician Killian are quarantined together and trying to keep their fans from finding out about it. Based on this prompt:

celebrities who are quarantined together trying to maintain their online presence while not letting it slip that they’re together until one accidentally gets the other’s distinctive possession in the back of a photo and their cover is blown

~2k total. Rated G

11: melancholy

IN WHICH it's August and Killian is struggling with depression. Inspired by a post I saw somewhere in the depths of Tumblr, something to the effect of a person who had been suffering through a bout of depression one day started to sing while they were cooking. Their roommate immediately rushed in, overwhelmed with relief because they knew that singing meant the person was feeling better. 1.4k words, rated G. Content warning for depression.

12: biblio - philia

IN WHICH Killian is a reader and Emma isn't, but they share a love of stories nonetheless. Stories and each other. Inspired by this post. Also possibly my favourite fic title. Discussion of rough childhoods and sappy emotions. 1.5k rated G.

13: relationship goals

IN WHICH Emma and Killian battle at Granny's drive-thru, and Ruby gets caught in the crossfire. Based on this post. One of my favourites, honestly. Sweet and funny and told from Ruby's POV. 1.2k rated G.

14: The Christmas Card

IN WHICH a card she receives from an old friend on Christmas Eve changes Emma's life forever. Based on the holiday prompt "receiving a message from old friends." 700+ words, rated G

15: light on the darkest night

IN WHICH it's Midwinter's Eve and Killian is walking the streets of the city. Set in the Portable Magic 'verse. Absolutely no plot, just a little gentle midwinter magic. Witch!Emma and fae!Killian. 1.3k, rated G

16: bound by sand and salt and sea

IN WHICH Emma is a selkie and Killian returns her pelt. The only problem is she doesn't want to leave him. Turns out, that's not actually a problem. Based on this post. Creature AU, selkies, merpeople. 1.4k, rated T.

And that's all for now!

-

@thisonesatellite @kmomof4 @stahlop @mariakov81 @snowbellewells @courtorderedcake @optomisticgirl @ohmightydevviepuu @spartanguard @katie-dub @captain-emmajones @killianjones-twopointoh @shireness-says

[deliciousdetectivestranger]

Posting 2nd chapter of my story, do tell me what you guys think.

You are the Mirror of My Soul

“Kit, can you hear me?”

Someone was calling out to him. Kit’s body ached all over while his head kept screaming at him to lie low and safe then act. He should heal himself but he was exhausted.

“Wake up please, Kit.”

This person was persistent and very much inconsiderate to not care about his situation. Kit reached out to grab a pillow whether to bury his head under it or to smother this annoying alarm clock he didn’t know but his hand found grass instead. He went taut as he tried to figure out where he was and suddenly cold wind slapped him in the face as he heard leaves rustle and wings flap.

“Christopher Jonathan Herondale!”

The person shook him and Kit fell into their arms. They were some kind of warrior given on their impressive physique, which made him even more alert until he noted their scent. Wild forest and open sky, a little bit of magic, and a hint of steel made Kit go lax with relief.

“Ash. Ash is that you?”

A shuddering relief went through the person’s body when Kit opened his eyes and stared into familiar green eyes.

“Thank goodness! I was so worried that you might be in a coma.”

“What happened?” Kit asked as he moved to stand up.

“What happened? What happened?” Ash let out a ‘can you believe this guy’ laugh.

“Repeating yourself is not going to answer my question and you will look like someone who has lost his marbles.”

Ash glared at him. “What happened is at the parley you and I fought for the crown of Seelie Court.”

“Yep. I do remember kicking your ass.”

“And then I blasted you with hellfire.” Ash continued as if hadn’t heard Kit. He had quite practice.

“A true fae. Cheating when it wasn’t suspected.”

“We are part-fae and part-shadowhunter. We have to fight with both of our heritages and use them to our utmost advantage. Plus, it’s not like you didn’t use your powers. We arrived here because you teleported us.”

“I was just following your lead.” Kit said with a sweet smile. At Ash’s glare he added, “Okay, you didn’t cheat. You looked for a loophole and used it.”

Ash opened his mouth to say something but a shadow passed over his young face and he sat against a tree with a loud thump.

Kit eyed him and this time asked him in a gentle tone, “What happened after I teleported us?”

“You teleported us nearly 630 feet in the sky. I flew us out with my wings and summoned vines to cushion our landing. I don’t know what happened at the parley but chaos, doubts, suspicion, threats will be high.”

Kit didn’t care about what happened at the parley. He could dwell on it later; Ash was more important.

“Then why are you in such a mood?” When Ash didn’t answer, Kit purposefully began to egg him, “Are you worried what the Seelie court will think? They will think you’ve been kidnapped by me. And the Alliance will think I’ve been kidnapped by you. It’s going to be an amusing blame game and I thoroughly plan on enjoying it.”

“Shut up! I don’t understand how you are finding this funny.”

Kit sat before Ash and took off the golden band, twirling it in his fingers. “I am not hurt Ash.” Ash flinched. “I would tell you if I were and if you had hurt me I would totally make you bow and scrape to my smallest wishes while I recuperate from my wounds." Seeing Ash ignore everything he said Kit continued in a sharp tone, "You listen to me and you listen well.”

“I understood that reference.” Ash instinctively muttered receiving a smile from Kit.

“We were fighting in the parley not as Kit and Ash but as The First Heir and The Seelie Prince. Every bit of it was real from the fight to your hellfire attack and my teleportation. But I know you weren’t ever going to hurt me. You won’t. Ever. And I know this just as you know you won’t ever be in danger from me.”

“You don’t get it. You lay there unmoving and I thought I had gone overboard with my act. I had killed you. I had truly become a Morgenstern, ruining lives of those who love us.”

And that was the crux of the matter. Arawn’s experiments and Annabelle Blackthorn’s maddening devotion had etched into Ash that no one will ever love him for who he was. His mother avoided him, too busy in her plans of uprising and weary of this unfamiliar son. Janus loved him for himself but Ash had realised that Janus' love for Clary was actually obsession which if not stopped would become fatal for everyone, and his love towards Ash was morphing into what Annabelle had showered him for those long years in Thule. He had hated her and he had begun to hate Janus as well but was there anyone in his life who truly loved him?

He had once escaped from the cottage at the Borderlands when Janus had gone to visit the Seelie Queen. He had found himself in the mortal world but it was strange to a boy raised in Faerie and a dystopian AU. Janus had started his shadowhunter training but there had never been lessons on mundanes. Panicked and weary of unknown attacks Ash had quite literally run into the one person on whom his Perfect Love didn’t work. Kit. Ash had been drawn towards this wondrous boy but had soon left for the Borderlands. One thing was clear whatever Kit would ever feel for Ash it would be true but did Ash dare to risk being like Janus and be obsessed with him?

The resolution hadn’t lasted for long with curiosity leading him to Kit again. Kit had been suspicious of him but then he was curious too. They had become acquaintances you didn’t want to meet, reluctant companions because there was something familiar in each other, accomplices against demons and finally friends who laughed, fought, shared secrets such as their problematic heritage (also Ty Blackthorn and Dru Blackthorn. They both had agreed they were in a hopeless situation.) and most of all understood each other better than anyone else.

“Except you didn’t and I didn’t create a shield because I knew you wouldn’t.” Ash turned his head away. “Look at me when I am talking to you Ashton.” Ash glared at him. Kit loved to more syllables to Ash’s name because according to him Shadowhunter names were long so they could be turned into nicknames and they were recognised by those nicknames. So, Kit had to find out Ash’s real name and if Ash found it bothersome, he could just tell Kit his name. It annoyed Ash endlessly but not as much as Kit’s other habit.

“I won’t even ask you to stop as you never listen.”

“Hey! I listen to you just fine.”

“And while we are on the topic, did you have to bring up my age at the parley?”

Kit smiled innocently and those who didn’t know him wouldn’t have doubted him at all. When Emma and Julian had returned from Thule, they had confessed all to the Blackthorns, and Kit, Cristina, Kieran, Alec, Magnus, Jace, and Clary. Their regrouping with Mark, Cristina, Kieran, Clary, and Jace was also discussed in detail. So, Kit had known a lot about Ash when they had first met and one of those things had been that Ash was near to the age of Mina, Max, Rafael, and Tavvy. Bossing Ash around was one of Kit’s favourite things to do, of course when the mood struck Kit also made Ash take the responsibility “because you’ve grown up so much in such short time”. Kit liked to say it was their thing, Ash heartily disagreed.

“Moving on, I know you ever won’t hurt me voluntarily or consciously. Ash, what about me? I have more powers than you. You think I don’t worry.” Ash glanced at him from the corner of his eye. “And if we are going to talk about living up to our last name then remember Herondales go crazy in love just as much as Morgensterns in the thrall of power. Both are dangerous.”

Kit took a deep breath and continued, “You were kept hidden because of your heritage just like I was. Janus may love you now but at first, it was because of Clary. How different is that from me? Tessa and Jem originally took me in because of Will.” Ash made a noise of protest. “Yes, they love me for me now but it doesn’t change that at first, they wanted to protect the Lost Herondale.”

“And if you are plagued by the fact that Perfect Love makes it impossible for them to love you on their terms then remember me. I am here for you. I always will be. Just like you will be for me. I have my fair share of insecurities too, no one had ever loved me until Tessa and Jem.”

“We make such a troubled pair, don’t we? A boy who believes no one can love him genuinely and a boy who believes he can’t be loved.”

“You are a mirror of my soul. Forged by our experiences, expectations of our powers, embodiments of our ancestry but never forget that we chose each other.”

Ash smiled as if the weight of the world had lifted from his shoulder at Kit’s words. Kit placed Ash’s golden band on his own head.

“Gold on gold looks gaudy. You need another metal for your band.”

Kit looked concerned at the idea of not being refined. He looked at the sky and realised dusk had tip-toed on them. He thought back to the mayhem running rampant in Shadow World and sighing wiped the back of his left hand to dispel a simple but quite unbreakable spell. Ash mimicked the action on the right side of his temple. Hidden beneath spells were twin runes.

“Well, then shall we raise hell, my Parabatai?”