#I prefer crescent city anyways

[autumns-high-lady]

I am refusing to be an account only for SJM. She’s getting boring and some of her fans are crazy—the amount of the people I have blocked…

I am going to draw for mostly other fandoms after completing my WIP list (I have stuff planned for Halloween/Samhain, ValkWeek, EmerieWeek!!). Dragon Age will likely take over my account more than it has already.

I want to set up proper commissions by the end of October. Anyone is welcome to request Acotar content via commissions—I won’t refuse you as long as the inquiry is within my guidelines.

I apologize if SJM and Eris Vanserra is what you followed me for. I will still post Eris/Autumn Court stuff on occasions but I need to find a new obsession and diversify my work.

[emilystheories]

The Bryce and Azriel theory.

Matching weapons, ancient prophecies, dusk, and true equals.

Before you scroll away or block (which I totally understand if you do anyway - you are entitled to curate your own experience on here!), please note that I am not trying to convert anyone to this ship. I am fully aware that most people in the fandom are in favour of Gwynriel, Elriel, Elucien, and/or Quinlar, and I 100% respect those preferences.

I am also not saying this is canon, or will be canon - it's a theory. However, I very rarely (if ever) see people correctly talk about the actual evidence for the Bryce x Az pairing, especially when they're mocking it as nothing more than a 'crackship.' Given the sheer size of this post (and the fact that it took me weeks to put together), it's no surprise that I disagree with such a sentiment.

Feel free to form your own opinion on the matter; I only ask that you keep an open mind. And if that's not possible, then at the very least, I hope this is still an entertaining read, as it breaks down a sizeable chunk of the SJM multiverse.

(So, evidently: SJM universe spoilers ahead).

[art by Gabrielle Ragusi].

To begin: Bryce's connections to dusk.

Throughout both Crescent City books, Bryce is repeatedly connected to dusk. For example:

Bryce's scent is of dusk.

One of the first things Hunt notices about Bryce is that her scent is of the "first stars at nightfall." Nightfall is another word for dusk. This is important, as SJM often uses scent to foreshadow a character's true home (e.g. Rowan's scent being of Terrasen).

"She's here," Hunt said. The scent of her still lingering on the sidewalk, lilac and nutmeg and something he couldn't quite place - like the gleam of the first stars at nightfall."

Bryce is repeatedly associated with dusk imagery.

For example, Bryce often has her nails painted in "twilight" colours (again, another word for dusk), and even her damn nipples are described as being "dusk rose."

"She examined her nails, now painted in some sort of color gradient that went from pink to periwinkle tips. Like the sky at twilight."

Bryce is obsessed with pegasuses and unicorns (which originated from the Dusk Court).

Bryce has been obsessed with pegasus dolls (i.e. Jelly Jubilee!) since book 1; they are iconic to her character. In fact, there is a unicorn-pegasus hidden on the cover of every Crescent City book (see image below).

It's then no coincidence that the pegasuses in Prythian came from the Prison Island... the Dusk Court.

"According to legend, the pegasuses had come from the island the Prison sat upon—"

"Dusk's Truth"

The entirety of Crescent City 2 centred around "Dusk's Truth," which was confirmed to be about the Dusk Court. This logically implies that dusk (and the Dusk Court) is a pivotal aspect of Bryce's storyline.

This is also why I believe that Bryce's entrance into Prythian isn't just a fun cameo, nor a brief, temporary visit (as many seem to believe) -- instead, all roads point to dusk.

"An isle of near-permanent twilight, the home world of her breed of Fae … A land of Dusk." “Dusk’s Truth,” Bryce breathed. It wasn’t just the name of this room that Danika had been talking about with Sofie."

Bryce is also connected to Prythian.

As much as people try to deny this (for reasons I still don't understand), Bryce is strongly connected to the ACOTAR world, and this has been heavily foreshadowed all along. For example:

Bryce is the true owner of Gwydion; the High King of Prythian's sword.

Crescent City 2 makes clear that Bryce is the true owner of the Starsword (or Gwydion, as it is known in the ACOTAR world).

"He snarled. "The sword belongs to Theia's female heir. Not the male offspring who corrupted her line."

But, this isn't just any sword - it's the sword of the first and only High King of Prythian.

In ACOSF, Amren states that Rhys could use Nesta's "made" swords to set himself up as High King. So, what does that mean for Bryce, who owns the real deal?

“But you, Rhysand, are not.” Amren nodded to the still-rotating weapons. “With these three blades, you could make yourself High King.”

Bryce literally glows for Prythian.

Bryce possesses a star on her chest that is a "beacon" to Prythian; its purpose is to guide people home to the ACOTAR world.

As such, Bryce literally glows and lights up for Prythian. Not Midgard. Prythian.

"The star on your chest - do you know what that is?" "Let's assume I know nothing," Bryce said grimly. Rigelus inclined his head. "It's a beacon to the world from which the Fae originally came."

Bryce possesses the exact starlight of Theia; the rightful queen of the Starborn fae in Prythian.

The star inside of Bryce's chest is that of Queen Theia's. Bryce's starlight is Theia's starlight. It's even suggested that Bryce possesses the same powers that Theia once did (though, she hasn't yet accessed said powers). It's for this reason that many believe that Bryce is the reincarnation of Queen Theia.

“I thought Theia’s light was forever extinguished.” “So did I. I thought they’d made sure she and her power died on that last battlefield under Prince Pelias’s blade.” His eyes glowed with ancient rage. “But Bryce Quinlan bears her light.”

But Theia wasn't just any old queen. Instead, she was the queen of the Starborn fae in Prythian (with it being hinted that she once ruled the Dusk Court).

As such, I find it hard to believe that the land (and the Cauldron) won't recognise this; that Theia (Bryce) has come home at last.

“I remember the last Starborn Queen, Theia, and her powers.” He seemed to shudder."

[art by AnaSebag].

Putting two and two together; Bryce is likely the future High Lady of the Dusk Court.

At the end of CC2, Rigelus confirmed that Bryce's bloodline - the Starborn fae - not only originated from Prythian, but specifically lived in a "land of dusk."

"An isle of near-permanent twilight, the home world of her breed of Fae... A land of Dusk."

Putting all the clues together across both the ACOTAR and CC books, this is likely in reference to the Dusk Court. ACOTAR readers will know this as the Prison Island (which was suggested to be the "eighth court").

"Rhys told me once that this island might have even been an eighth court.”

In linking with this, when Nesta visits the Prison Island (Dusk Court) in ACOSF, she senses that "something great" had once existed here, but seemingly vanished. However, she then states that the land "still waited for it to return." Many agree that this is in reference to Bryce and the Starborn fae.

"The very land seemed abandoned. Like something great had once existed here and then vanished. Like the land still waited for it to return."

However, now that Bryce has indeed returned to the Dusk Court (or is about to in CC3); I believe that her presence will awaken the Dusk Court once more, and what was vanished, will return.

As foreshadowing of this, recall this scene in CC1:

"The gentle illumination danced on Bryce’s hair as she ambled down the stone path, night-blooming flowers opening around her. Jasmine lay heavy in the twilight air, sweet and beckoning." "Bryce didn’t flinch as he dropped into step beside her. “I wanted some fresh air.” She admired an unfurling fern, its fronds lit from within to illuminate every vein." "She continued past beds of night crocuses, their purple petals shimmering amid the vibrant moss. The garden seemed to awaken for her, welcome her."

Bryce is walking through a garden. As she continues walking, flowers open around her, and ferns unfurl in her presence. Hunt remarks that it's as if the garden "seemed to awaken" for Bryce.

And the kicker is; as this was happening, Bryce was walking though the "twilight air." This scene occurred during dusk.

Let's also not forget that the star on Bryce's chest is that of an eight-pointed star; the symbol of the Starborn fae (the same symbol engraved on the Prison Island floor, as shown in ACOSF). As a comparison, that's like Rhys having the Night Court insignia branded on his chest... it's rather overt foreshadowing.

“Well,” she said with a sigh, “that’s new.” Indeed, just visible down the V-neck of her T-shirt, a white splotch—an eight-pointed star—now scarred the place between her breasts."

Combined with the fact that Bryce is the heir to the Starborn fae, that she possesses Queen Theia's starlight, that she glows for Prythian, and that even her scent is of dusk... there's no one better suited (and heavily foreshadowed) to rule the Dusk Court, than Bryce Quinlan.

"Homecoming."

As we know, Bryce has now just arrived in the true home world of her people: Prythian.

"An isle of near-permanent twilight, the home world of her breed of Fae... A land of Dusk."

The instance of returning back home is known as a "homecoming."

"Homecoming" [noun]: an instance of returning home. (e.g. "she spent most of the day preparing for her husband's homecoming.")

And, that's exactly what SJM (curiously) labelled this image on her Pinterest board for Bryce.

Many believe this image to look like Bryce and Azriel (especially when SJM could have labelled it "Bryce and Hunt," which she happily did for the other photos on her CC Pinterest board...), and thus, the Bryce x Azriel theory begins.

The knife and the sword.

In the first Crescent City book, we are told of an ancient fae prophecy; "when knife and sword are reunited, so shall our people be."

"It's another of the Fae's countless inane prophecies," Bryce muttered. "When knife and sword are reunited, so shall our people be." "It's literally carved above the Fae Archives entrance - whatever the fuck it means," Ruhn said."

We now know that this prophecy is referring to Azriel's knife (Truth-Teller) and Bryce's sword (the Starsword). Keep in mind that SJM could have connected this prophecy to any number of characters, but she specifically chose Bryce and Azriel.

Additionally, we are also told that the knife and sword need to stay together in order to activate their full powers. Given the importance of these weapons in defeating the Asteri/Daglan, this suggests that Bryce and Azriel will also need to stay together in some capacity.

"Ruhn shook his head. "The sword doesn't work like that. Aside from being picky about who draws it, the sword has no power without the knife."

[art by itswibell_art]

Azriel as Starborn.

The Starsword (Gwydion) is a Starborn weapon, as only those with enough Starborn blood can wield it.

"Ruhn shook his head. "The sword doesn't work like that. Aside from being picky about who draws it, the sword has no power without the knife."

Given that Truth-Teller is the twin to the Starsword, this suggests that the knife is also a Starborn weapon. And, the fact that Azriel can wield it, implies that he too is Starborn (or at least connected in some capacity).

This is further substantiated in CC2, in which we learn that the Starborn fae aren't just those with starlight powers, but shadow powers too. This was confirmed by Cormac, who stated that the ability to wield shadows (and teleport through them) was once a gift of the Starborn fae.

"But Hunt didn't so much as sniff as he asked Cormac, "Where did you inherit the ability from?" Cormac squared his shoulders, ever inch the proud prince as he said, "It was once a gift of the Starborn. It was the reason I became so... focused on attaining the Starsword."

In fact, Cormac believed that because he could teleport using his shadows, this was an indication that the Starborn bloodline had resurfaced in him. However, this wasn't true; he had "some Starborn blood," but not enough to be "worthy of the blade."

"I thought my ability to teleport meant that the bloodline had resurfaced in me, as I've never met anyone else who can do it." His eyes guttered as he added, "As you know, I was wrong. Some Starborn blood, apparently, but not enough to be worthy of the blade."

But, do you know who can also use their shadows to teleport...? Azriel.

And, do you know who else has been "deemed worthy" and can wield a "Starborn blade" (i.e. Truth-Teller)? Azriel.

[art by cludi_a_]

Bryce + Azriel = Dusk Court.

The crux of this theory is that with their matching weapons and connections to the Starborn narrative, Bryce and Azriel represent the two halves of the Dusk Court.

This is because dusk is the crossover between the light and the dark.

This is further exemplified by SJM's own definition of dusk, as seen in Throne of Glass:

"Nightfall. That was when Maeve had told Erawan to meet. That liminal space between light and dark, when one force yielded to another."

As such, Bryce is light, and Azriel is dark. This is evidenced by their powers:

Bryce's power is pure starlight.

Azriel's power is pure shadows (in comparison to other characters, who have shadow powers + something else).

Further, and perhaps most importantly; Bryce and Azriel's weapons also symbolise this same dusk imagery:

Bryce's sword (the Starsword), glows with a GLITTERING, WHITE LIGHT (as if symbolising starlight).

Azriel's knife (Truth-Teller), glows with a DARK LIGHT (as if symbolising shadows).

"It was its twin. The Starsword began to hum within its sheath, glittering white light leaking from where leather met the dark hilt. The dagger - The male dropped the dagger to the plush carpet. All of them retreated as it flared with dark light."

Bryce (starlight) + Azriel (shadows) = Dusk.

And I mean, look at that dusk imagery on the CC3 cover (when the previous two covers were just solid red and black...).

(I'll also point out that the sword and knife are featured on this cover, with the knife right over the woman's heart...)

Alpha and Omega.

Further, Bryce's sword and Azriel's knife - together - is described as "Alpha and Omega."

"The male dropped the dagger to the plush carpet. All of them retreated as it flared with dark light, as if in answer. Alpha and Omega."

This term means "the beginning and the end."

"Alpha and Omega" [noun]: "the beginning and ending."

Which, is also a term that SJM often uses to describe love, or mated couples. For example, Feyre and Rhys:

"and saw and smelled that bond between us, until our scents merged, and I was his and he was mine, and we were the beginning and the middle and the end."

And this quote here, from Throne of Glass:

"She would find that love again—one day. And it would be deep and unrelenting and unexpected, the beginning and the end and eternity, the kind that could change history, change the world."

Additionally, when the weapons are finally together at the end of CC2, it's said that Azriel's knife glowed "in answer" to Bryce's sword.

"The male dropped the dagger to the plush carpet. All of them retreated as it flared with dark light, as if in answer."

They are matching halves.

Bryce and Azriel as rulers.

Given everything mentioned thus far, I believe that Bryce and Azriel are destined to become the High Lady and High Lord of the Dusk Court.

But, I actually think it goes one step further than this, and it has to do with Bryce's likely rule as High Queen of Prythian. As proof of this:

SJM is drawing from Arthurian mythology, and Bryce is King Arthur.

Throughout both Crescent City books, there are a number of nods to Arthurian mythology. Most obviously is Avallen Island (where Cormac lives), which is likely inspired by the renowned Avalon Island.

In fact, Ruhn retrieving the Starsword from the Avallen caves (and being "deemed worthy" to "pull the sword from its sheath") seemingly parallels King Arthur being deemed worthy of the famous sword, Excalibur, and thus being able to pull the sword from the stone.

"That your son, not you, stood among the long-dead Starborn Princes asleep in their sarcophagi and was deemed worthy to pull the sword from its sheath."

However, as mentioned previously; CC2 makes very clear that the Starsword belongs to Theia's "female heir." The Starsword belongs to Bryce.

As such, I believe that in this series, King Arthur is actually represented by Bryce. And, as further proof of this, consider Rigelus's words at the end of CC2; that Bryce's star glows for those she chooses as her "knights."

"It also glows for those who you choose as your loyal companions. Knights."

Just like King Arthur's own knights; the famed Knights of the Round Table.

King Arthur was the High King of Great Britain. And, Prythian is in the shape of Great Britain.

Putting two and two together, could this suggest that Bryce will become the High Queen of Prythian?

2. Bryce has the High King's sword.

As mentioned previously, Bryce is the true owner of the Starsword (Gwydion). The same sword that the High King of Prythian once wielded long ago. That alone is heavy foreshadowing.

3. Bryce is repeatedly foreshadowed as a queen.

For example, Hunt often notices Bryce's queenly demeanour:

"She spoke with the imperiousness of a queen. Hunt could only rise with her."

And even the contact name for Bryce in Hunt's phone is "Bryce Is a Queen."

Ruhn also implores Bryce to become queen:

"But you have to live, Bryce. You have to be queen."

To which Cormac agrees, stating that the decision to lead their people forward, will be up to Bryce:

"But after today..." Cormac's words grew heavy. Weary. "I think the choice about whether to lead our people forward will be up to you now."

Additionally, SJM often uses the phrase "lifted their chin" when someone is signifying their authority (e.g. "she lifted her chin, every inch the queen"). Then when Bryce meets Feyre and Rhys, the same term is used:

"So Bryce addressed the two of them as she lifted her chin. “My name is Bryce Quinlan.”

And most of all, is Ruhn's final words to Bryce:

"Her brother pulled away. And Ruhn said, shining with pride, “Long live the queen.”

(Speaking of Ruhn, recall his prophecy from the Oracle; that the royal bloodline ends with him. Considering that he is connected to both the Valbaran and Avallen royal houses, this suggests that there won't be any 'queen positions' left for Bryce to take in Midgard. But, there might be in Prythian...)

4. Bryce has Queen Theia's starlight (and likely her same powers).

Again, as mentioned previously, Theia ruled in Prythian (with some even believing that she was High Queen).

If it's bloodline alone that determines who would be High King/Queen (as Amren appears to suggest in ACOSF), then again, as Bryce is the true heir to the Starborn fae, placing her at spot #1.

5. Bryce glows for the ACOTAR world.

The star in Bryce's chest glows for Prythian. She is a beacon for Prythian. That's queen symbolism right there.

6. Bryce is a main character.

It is a well-known fact that all of SJM's leading ladies rise to power; Aelin as Queen of Terrasen, and Feyre as High Lady of the Night Court.

And, although I have heard some solid theories suggesting that Rhys or Lucien may become High King... it's also a well-known fact that SJM loves a female ruler (especially when Prythian is already so overly patriarchal).

Bryce, however, would be perfect.

[art by Gabrielle Ragusi]

7. Lastly, and perhaps the most important of all: Bryce is foreshadowed to unite the worlds.

Notably, the last High King (Fionn) rose to power because he united the people of Prythian.

"A millennium of peace followed, and the lands were divided into rough territories that were the precursors to the courts—but at the end of those thousand years, they were at each other’s throats, on the brink of war.” His face tightened. “Fionn unified them and set himself above them as High King. The first and only High King this land has ever had.”

Bryce is foreshadowed to do the same, as per that same ancient fae prophecy; "when knife and sword are reunited, so shall our people be" (and, this is where Azriel comes in).

Although this prophecy can be interpreted in a variety of ways, I believe it to mean that Bryce and Azriel will reunite the Starborn fae, lost across two worlds (Midgard and Prythian). A unification of people... just as Fionn once achieved.

Now, it is theorised that Bryce and Azriel will continue this legacy, as High Queen and High King. In doing so:

Bryce will represent the Midgardian fae, Azriel will represent the Prythian fae.

Bryce will represent starlight, Azriel will represent shadows. Light and dark. Dusk.

Together, Bryce and Azriel are two halves of whole. Alongside their weapons - which are also matching halves - you can't get anymore equal than that.

As mates are supposed to be.

A common rebuttal to this theory, however, is the belief that Azriel "doesn't have what it takes" to become a High Lord or a High King -- that he is inferior to other contenders (such as the likes of Feyre and Rhys).

Yet, I'd argue that the one character who could match up to Feyre and Rhys (and has foreshadowing hinting as such; power-wise)... would be Azriel. For example:

With Feyre (ACOSF):

“Give me some credit, Feyre,” Az said. “I can keep hidden well enough.” “We take no risks,” Feyre said, voice flat with command. “Pull all your spies out.” “Like hell I will.”

With Rhys (ACOFAS):

“And what would you have me do, then? Disband the largest army in Prythian?” Az didn’t answer. I held his gaze, though. Held that ice-cold stare that still sometimes scared the shit out of me."

“You sure about that?” I asked quietly. Azriel’s Siphons guttered, the stones turning as dark and foreboding as the deepest sea. “Where did Lucien go.” I straightened at the pure order in the words."

Az nodded knowingly. He’d always understood me best—more than the others. Save my mate. Whether it was his gifts that allowed him to do so, or merely the fact that he and I were more similar than most realized, I’d never learned.

With Rhys (ACOSF; the bonus chapter):

"Azriel stiffened. Let his cold rage rise to the surface, the rage he only ever let Rhysand see, because he knew his brother could match it."

Similarly, it is also argued that Azriel would "never leave the Night Court." Yet, take it from Azriel himself; that he too is not sure where he truly fits in.

"I don’t really know where I fit in anymore,” I admitted, perhaps only because the wind was screeching around us and Rhys had already winnowed ahead to where Cassian’s dark form flew—beyond the wall. “I’ve been alive almost five and a half centuries, and I’m not sure of that, either,” Azriel said."

Combined with Azriel's disdain for the Illyrians and their culture (and the fact that when Az refers to the Illyrians, he will often say "they/them" as opposed to "we/us"...) could it be that something else is in store for Azriel's future?

Especially when we know Azriel has always been so curious about what lies beyond...

"At the far end of the room, a little dais led into a broad raised alcove flanked by more books—and in its center, a massive, working model of their world, the stars and planets around it, and some other fancy things that had been explained to Cassian once before he deemed them boring and proceeded to ignore them completely. Az, of course, had been fascinated."

Bryce and Azriel's beast forms.

If Bryce and Azriel are indeed set to become High Lady and High Lord of the Dusk Court, then they will presumably possess beast forms.

To expand on this, in a recent Marie Claire interview (August 2023), SJM stated that her favourite place to write is her desk, where she's surrounded by the things that remind her of the current book she's writing.

SJM: "I like to write at my desk, where I'm surrounded by lots of little items that remind me of either the book I'm writing, or things that just make me happy."

SJM then mentioned that when writing House of Flame and Shadow, she kept a vintage My Little Pony pegasus figure that was the inspiration for Jelly Jubilee.

SJM: "While writing House of Flame and Shadow, for instance, I had a vintage My Little Pony figure with me that was the inspiration for Bryce's beloved Jelly Jubilee!"

Then, when SJM announced the title of Crescent City 3, we were offered a glimpse of her desk, and sure enough - that vintage My Little Pony figure is right there.

But most importantly, this tells us that the items featured in this video aren't just random, but are instead (part of) the inspiration for House of Flame and Shadow.

Which then begs the question; what is the Godzilla toy hinting at? Well, the only connection I have been able to make... is to Azriel.

As proof of this, recall that in ACOMAF, Azriel's Siphon is described as being the "great eye" of a "half-slumbering beast" from a "frozen wasteland."

"I watched the light shift inside the sapphire Siphon instead, as if it were the great eye of some half-slumbering beast from a frozen wasteland."

This description matches Godzilla almost perfectly; who is an ancient monster, often slumbering at the bottom of the ocean, and also often frozen within ice.

And, if Azriel's Siphons are supposed to be reminiscent of the "great eye" of this beast, then it's perhaps no coincidence that Godzilla is famed for his blue, glowing eyes.

Similarly, Godzilla's atomic breath manifests as blue fire (which is what you can see coming out of the mouth of SJM's own Godzilla toy).

Coincidentally (or perhaps not), Azriel - and specifically his Siphons - are repeatedly described as blue flame.

"The shadows deepened around Ariel, his Siphons gleaming like cobalt fire."

"Azriel caught his eye. Rhys nodded. The Siphons atop his scarred hands flickered like rippling blue fire as he reached for the Attor."

"Illyrian lines buckled. Azriel sailed closer and closer to them, Siphons trailing tendrils of blue flame in his wake."

In linking with this, I have also theorised that Bryce has a beast form, and that hers will be a unicorn-pegasus (as outlandish as that may sound, it's one of my most well-received theories; link here).

Thus, I believe that the pegasus and Godzilla toys on SJM's desk in the CC3 reveal video, are symbolic of Bryce and Azriel.

Bryce and Azriel meeting for the first time.

When CC2 first came out, people started shipping Bryce and Azriel based on their first interaction alone. Some even noted that Azriel acted in a particularly uncharacteristic manner towards Bryce; he touched her repeatedly, and seemingly showed more emotion (or rather, a lack of composure) than what is usual. For example:

"He hissed, and then a strong hand clamped on her shoulder, hauling her up and twisting her to face him."

"The male’s hands were gentle but thorough as he fitted it tightly over her eyes."

"He set her down, taking her by the hand."

"He caught her, and sighed. She could have sworn he sounded … exasperated. He gave no warning as he hauled her over a shoulder and tromped down a set of stairs."

(It is argued that this is because Bryce is a danger/threat; but if that was true, then why would Azriel take Bryce to the townhouse?)

To me, the last line is the most significant. Azriel is usually calm and collected. He is polite and respectful towards women. Yet within only a couple of minutes, he is already frustrated and "exasperated" with Bryce, and he immediately chucks her over his shoulder.

[art by Paint Faery]

And speaking of parallels to other couples, Azriel and Bryce meeting for the first time seemingly shares many parallels with Feyre and Rhys meeting for this first time:

As well as parallels to Elide and Lorcan meeting for the first time:

And although this is more of a fun tidbit (one I acknowledge is definitely a reach), it's interesting that in ACOSF, we are told that mating ceremonies are commemorated using black ribbons.

"But all that mattered, she realized, was the male who would be standing with her, first as they swore their vows, then as they offered each other food, and then as their friends and family bound their hands together with a length of black ribbon, to remain until the mating was consummated.

Then, this is what Azriel does as soon as he meets Bryce...

[art by witchlingsart]

It's also interesting to note that when SJM was asked about her "favourite part" of HOSAB (in an interview with Entertainment Today), she answered the "penultimate chapter," where "a lot of major things come together for Bryce."

Interviewer: "What is your favorite part of House of Sky and Breath?" SJM: "The penultimate chapter - where a lot of major things come together for Bryce!"

SJM is referring to the very chapter mentioned above; when Bryce meets Azriel and the Inner Circle.

Bryce was "yanked" into Prythian.

Speaking of the penultimate chapter of HOSAB (and the events leading up to it), we know that Bryce originally intended to travel to Hel. However, her journey to the underworld was interrupted, as Bryce was instead "yank[ed]" into Prythian.

"It was the last sound Bryce heard as the darkness within the Gate swallowed her whole. She fell, slowly and without end—and sideways. Not a plunge down, but a yank across."

The definition of "yank," is pull, or tug. And, it is a word frequently used when SJM is describing the mating bond. For example, with Feyre and Rhys:

"No sign of him. No pound of beating wings. But the tug yanked again in my mind, my gut - a summoning. Like some servant's bell."

As such, fans of the Bryce x Az ship often speculate that Bryce was "yanked" into Prythian, right at Azriel's feet, because of their (yet to be discovered) mating bond.

Mor and Azriel = Bryce and Azriel.

It is widely accepted in the fandom that SJM initially intended for Mor and Azriel to be endgame (before changing this in ACOWAR). Not only is this because of the way Mor and Azriel interact in ACOMAF, but SJM's Pinterest board also strongly hinted at their pairing, for example:

With this in mind, consider that whenever Azriel's shadows were around Mor in ACOMAF (when they were likely supposed to be endgame), they lightened and faded in her presence.

"It was almost enough to distract me from noticing Azriel as those shadows lightened, and his gaze slid over Mor's body."

"Azriel, who kept a step away, whose shadows trailed him and seemed to fade in her presence."

Curiously, in the final chapter of CC2, Bryce doesn't mention Azriel's shadows once (when in comparison, she always noticed Ruhn and Cormac's shadows...). As such, could it be that Azriel's shadows lighten and fade in Bryce's presence?

Consider also these points connecting Mor/Azriel to Bryce/Azriel:

In ACOMAF, it's mentioned that Mor's family once ruled the Prison Island. However, we now know that the Prison Island is most strongly connected to Bryce; the Dusk Court.

In ACOMAF, we learn that Azriel's knife is called "Truth-Teller." Many speculate that this was also evidence of Mor and Azriel being endgame (as his knife was "Truth-Teller," and Mor has the power of "Truth"). However, now Truth-Teller is connected to Bryce and the Starsword.

Additionally, if we know that SJM once believed Mor and Azriel to be compatible, then it's worth noting how similar Mor and Bryce are:

Both Mor and Bryce have very similar personalities. In fact, if you're into MBTI (and are familiar with Personality Database), you'll note that both Mor and Bryce are said have the ESFP personality type.

Both Mor and Bryce are physically described in the exact same way. An example of this is outlined below:

"[Mor] wore a gown of pure white, little more than a slip of silk that showed off her generous curves. Indeed, a glance over her shoulder revealed Azriel staring blatantly at the back view of it, Cassian and the stranger already too deep in conversation to notice what had drawn the spymaster's attention. For a moment, the ravenous hunger on Azriel's face made my stomach tighten."

"Bryce Quinlan leaned against the large ironwood desk in the center of the space, her snow-white dress clinging to every generous curve and dip."

Although these comparisons in itself aren't a slam dunk of any sort (as evidently, Azriel is attracted to lots of different body types/people/personalities), I just can't help but wonder if SJM did a copy + paste with Mor and Bryce for this very reason...?

[art by mftfernandez and wictorian_art]

Speaking of personalities...

Although Bryce and Azriel have only interacted for a single chapter (yet are already causing waves with that alone!), some readers have been contemplating their (potential) compatibility.

More specifically, it appears that Bryce frequently mirrors Azriel's dark and cold demeanour. For example:

"The sprite crawled off her arm and floated in front of her, arms wrapping across her round belly. "You can be cold as a Reaper, Bryce."

"Bryce said quietly, her amber eyes full of cold fire, "I'll find them." She met the Archangel's gaze. "And then I want you to wipe them off the fucking planet."

"Bryce's face remained cold as stone. Colder. Males approached, saw that expression, and didn't venture closer."

"The last gift of the synth before it destroyed her. Yet in her eyes. ... he saw no haze of insanity, of self-destructive frenzy. Only cold, glittering vengeance."

"That icy look—their father’s look—passed over her face. The sort of look that told him there was a wild, wicked storm raging beneath that cold exterior. And the power and thrill for both father and daughter lay not in sheer force, but in the control over the self, over those impulses. The outside world saw his sister as reckless, unchecked—but he knew she’d been the master of her fate since before he’d met her."

In line with this, there have been frequent discussions within the fandom that Azriel needs "healing" or "curing" from his darkness; that he needs to "change his ways." But, what if instead, Azriel needs someone who can match, and embrace his darkness?

And what if that person is Bryce?

(Speaking of 'embracing the darkness,' I find it interesting that Azriel "is a freak," as confirmed by SJM herself. With that in mind, let me remind you that upon first meeting Bryce, Azriel put a knife to her throat and then blindfolded her...).

[art by brielyasmin]

The Little Mermaid: a hint to Bryce and Az?

I know this is a popular Gwynriel theory (with extremely valid evidence to support it!), which is exactly why I haven't spoken about this connection before, as I don't want to offend anyone.

However, I am going to briefly mention it (only once) right now, and suggest that The Little Mermaid retelling SJM has alluded to, may in fact be Bryce and Azriel.

To first demonstrate this: there are several similarities between Bryce and Ariel (the mermaid).

Bryce and Ariel both have red hair (in comparison, Gwyn is canonically more of a brunette, with "coppery-brown" hair).

Ariel's story is about her journey from life underwater, to life in the human lands (where she meets Eric). Bryce's story involves her journey from Midgard, to Prythian (where she meets Azriel).

However, upon arriving in the human lands, Ariel's voice has been stolen; she cannot communicate with Eric. Similarly, Bryce arrives in Prythian and does not speak their language; she cannot communicate with Azriel.

In Ariel's story, the main antagonist is Ursula, a witch. Bryce also knows (a rather suspicious) witch... Jesiba.

[art by Morgana0anagrom]

Further, many in the fandom have already pointed out that SJM saved a variety of 'The Little Mermaid' inspired photos to her Pinterest. However, SJM specifically saved these photos under a Pinterest board titled "Story Kernels," meaning that we have no idea whether it's in reference to ACOTAR, CC or both (or neither!)

Some believe these photos to be reminiscent of Gwyn, but, when you compare these photos to the Pinterest images SJM saved of Bryce... the resemblance is most certainly there as well.

However, some may argue that "Bryce has no real link to mermaids" (in comparison to Gwyn, who has water-nymph heritage; though, that's different from being a mermaid as well).

But I disagree. Recall that in CC2, Bryce seems to rely on other people to "charge up" her power (such as Hunt and Hypaxia). However, I don't believe that is the true manifestation of her abilities. Instead, Bryce hints that she can feel a "giant cloud" of power inside her, one that she can't yet access.

"Bryce sucked in a sharp breath. “I can feel it—like, this giant cloud of power right there.” She ran a finger over the eight-pointed star scarred between her breasts. Starlight pulsed at her fingertip. Like an answering heartbeat. “But I can’t access it.”

The bulk of Bryce's power came from the Gates in Lunathion. Power that was donated by thousands (perhaps even hundreds of thousands) of different beings every time they touched the Gates. And given that the civilians of Midgard herald from different worlds... the variety of this power is staggering.

And it's exactly this power that I believe Bryce can feel (as the "giant cloud") but can't yet access. The evidence for this is engraved into the Gates themselves; "the power shall always belong to those who give their lives to the city." Just as Bryce did.

"The quartz Gates were memorials, though she didn’t know for which conflict or war. But each bore the same plaque: The power shall always belong to those who give their lives to the city."

As such, I believe Bryce's true power is that of the four houses of Midgard; she is Earth & Blood, Sky & Breath, Flame & Shadow, and Many Waters. It's similar to Feyre's power (but x 100).

(And, look again at the cover of CC3 and tell me it doesn't align perfectly with this...)

We even see this in canon when Bryce is making the Drop (after obtaining the power from the Gates):

"But his princess fought for every bit of progress upward, her power shifting, traces of everyone who’d given it to her coming through: mer, shifter, draki, human, angel, sprite, Fae."

"She was sea and sky and stone and blood and wings and earth and stars and darkness and light and bone and flame."

Thus, I believe a good chunk of Bryce's arc in CC3 will be about unlocking this power. And when she does... she will have access to the power of House of Many Waters (the highlighted quotes above emphasise this).

There's even a section of Bryce's ascent (during the Drop) where she thrusts upwards with a "mighty tail." I believe this is a mermaid tail.

"Her power shifted, dancing between forms and gifts. She thrust upward with a push of a mighty tail. Twisted and rose with a sweep of vast wings. She was all things—and yet herself."

And to tie the 'Little Mermaid = Bryce x Az' connections together even further; what's the likely title of the next Crescent City book?

House of Many Waters.

(And as a bonus fun fact: recall that the items on SJM's desk seemingly hint to the inspiration behind HOFAS? Zoom in and you'll see a Little Mermaid cup...).

Hades and Persephone too!

If you scroll back up to the Pinterest photo SJM saved as Mor and Az and reverse-image search it, you'll discover that it's actually an image of Hades and Persephone.

(So no, Feyre and Rhys weren't the only couple inspired by Hades and Persephone).

Similarly, the above Little Mermaid inspired photo that SJM saved (top left)? Also of Hades and Persephone.

The story of Persephone is that of a woman who once lived on Earth and was taken to the underworld. There, she eventually fell in love with Hades, the ruler of the underworld.

[Hades and Persephone art by oblivionsdream; it's giving Bryce and Az...]

Similarly, the final chapters of CC2 detailed Bryce's decision to use the Horn, and travel to Hel; the underworld. In doing so, she was taken to Azriel; someone who is heavily theorised to be a Prince of Hel (or connected to Hel, at the very least). As evidence of this:

The Princes of Hel are repeatedly connected to the cold. For example, when Apollion reaches out to touch Bryce, it's said that his touch was like "ice so cold it ached."

"[Apollion] reached out a hand, and Bryce flinched as it touched her. Truly touched her, ice so cold it ached."

Then Feyre touches Azriel for the first time, it's said that his skin was like "pure ice." (The similarities are uncanny!).

"But my attention drifted to Azriel, who took my still-offered hand and rose. The scars were rough against my fingers, but his skin was like ice. Pure ice."

However, this isn't the only instance. Instead, Azriel is repeatedly and consistently linked to being cold/icy/frozen. For example:

"I took Azriel’s hand, and his rough fingers squeezed mine. His skin was as cold as his face."

"There was an icy rage in Azriel I had never been able to thaw."

"Azriel’s dark breeze was different from Rhys’s. Colder. Sharper

"Azriel tucked in his wings and left without another word, stalking through the house and onto the front lawn to sit in the frigid starlight. To let the frost in his veins match the air around him."

We also know that Azriel is "different," and that even Rhys has "no explanation" for Azriel's shadowsinger abilities.

"Az is different. In a lot of ways." His tone didn't invite further questioning.

"Though the cobalt Siphons were proof that his Illyrian heritage ran true, even the rich lore of that warrior-people, my warrior-people, did not have an explanation for where the shadowsinger gifts came from."

Thus, if Azriel is indeed connected to Hel (a storyline far more prevalent in the Crescent City series than the ACOTAR series, by the way), then one could logically assume that his mate will also be someone connected to Hel.

Who do Hel's armies strike for? Bryce.

“Hel’s armies shall strike at your command, Bryce Quinlan.”

Who has Aidas (the 5th Prince of Hel) been watching over? Bryce.

"The cat’s whiskers twitched. I told you. Come find me. Her eyelids drooped—a final descent toward sleep. Why? The cat angled its head. So we can finish this."

Who is Apollion's (the 7th Prince of Hel) "greatest opponent?" Bryce.

I also find it interesting that when they meet, Apollion refers to Bryce as "Princess," and Bryce refers to Apollion as "Prince." I understand that Bryce is the Princess of the Valbaran fae, but the way they spoke in this scene felt more like Apollion and Bryce were on equal footing...

“Princess.” The voice was like Hel embodied: dark and icy and smooth.” “Prince.” Her voice shook.”

Many people in the fandom have been theorising that Prythian (and the broader ACOTAR world) is a layer of Hel. Could it be a missing 8th layer?

And if so, if Bryce and Azriel are set to rule Prythian (as High Queen and High King, as per this theory), wouldn't this make them both also Princess and Prince of the 8th layer of Hel? Ruling from the Dusk Court... the 8th court? Signified by an 8-pointed star?

(This is ultimately why I ship Bryce and Azriel: their epic story potential is unlike anything we've seen before).

As further proof of this, recall the connections between Bryce and Theia (with many believing that Bryce is a reincarnation of Theia). Although Theia's backstory is still shrouded in mystery, at present we can deduce that:

Theia lived in Prythian, and had two daughters with an unknown man.

She then travelled to another world; Midgard (unwillingly), and allied with the Princes of Hel.

She was then said to have a relationship with Aidas, a Prince of Hel (as she was said to be Aidas's "great love").

(Fun fact: Aidas is another name for Hades).

Compare to Bryce:

Bryce lives in Midgard, and is currently with Hunt.

She then travels to another world; Prythian (unwillingly), in search of the Princes of Hel.

As per this theory, she will have a relationship with Azriel, a (theorised) Prince of Hel.

History is repeating. Rigelus even notes the similarities himself:

"Rigelus sighed dramatically at their stunned silence. “This all seems very familiar, doesn’t it? A Starborn queen who allied with a Prince of Hel."

Twilight of the Gods: SJM's multiverse series?

"But Bryce won't forget about Hunt!"

"She's not going to skip off into the sunset with Azriel in just one book! All of this is too much!"

I agree. I don't believe any huge shipping revelations will be made in CC3.

Instead, things will be much more tame to begin with. Perhaps Az will be the one to guide Bryce around Prythian (and they'll figure out their matching weapons, and the origins of the Dusk Court - both together, and alongside other pivotal ACOTAR characters). I believe Bryce and Az will develop a friendship, and that will be all (sort of like Aelin and Rowan, and their dynamic in Heir of Fire).

(That's not to diminish the significance of their interactions, though. If this theory is correct, then Bryce's POV may be the first to include Azriel at the forefront - no other character within the Azriel ship wars has had this opportunity yet).

Then, if Bryce and Azriel are indeed true mates and endgame, then I think that will be explored further down the line in what I predict will be SJM's multiverse series; Twilight of the Gods (which, as per the latest SJM publishing news, seems to be looking veryyyy likely; more information here).

"Twilight" is also another name for DUSK. Given everything I have already discussed, I am sure you can see how I believe that Bryce and Azriel's story (if they are indeed endgame) will be explored in this series - Twilight of the Gods (if it does indeed come to fruition).

Interestingly, both the Crescent City and Twilight of the Gods Pinterest boards are full of Sailor Moon imagery, and it appears as if Bryce (and her powers) have also been modelled after Sailor Moon herself. Knowing this, this image (which was also found in the Twilight of the Gods Pinterest board) is particularly interesting...

The sword? The multiverse-esque aesthetic?

This is fundamentally what the Bryce x Azriel ship comes down to: the promise and intrigue of a multiversal romance.

And don't you think SJM has considered this too? I find it hard to believe that SJM (the queen of fantasy romance) spent 5+ years planning out a crossover between her worlds, and didn't once stop to think about the possibility of a multiversal romantic pairing.

I mean, even back in 2015 SJM admitted to thinking about "crossover fanfic" with her own characters...

Moderator: "So, speaking of fandoms, different fandoms, um obviously you have ACOTAR, which is different from the TOG series. If both worlds could collide, which two characters would get on really well?"

SJM: <giggling>

Moderator: "Get on really well, not get it on really well" (laughs).

SJM: (laughs) "In my head I already have like, crossover fanfic (laughs). Like, is it fanfic if I'm writing it, or is it ultimate universe, canon things?

So, knowing all of this... why pair Bryce and Azriel together?

Most people in the fandom agree that Bryce and Azriel are connected in some way. I'm hoping that this post has made clear this connection even further.

But here's the thing: if we can all agree that Bryce and Azriel are connected, then why? What's the reason? And why not connect Bryce with other characters instead? Why Azriel specifically?

The two explanations I have heard are:

"Bryce and Azriel are cousins/related."

We already have the Ruhn and Rhys reveal, so why add another? I also don't see how Azriel could be related to Ember Quinlan or the Autumn King... (I also feel like Bryce's descriptions of Azriel's "tall, muscled body" and "gentle but thorough hands" is a lil weird for cousins...)

"Bryce and Azriel will be just friends."

Whilst I don't deny the likelihood of this, I also think that Bryce has the potential to become close friends with Nesta, Rhys, Feyre, Mor, Cassian (and many of the other characters). "Just friends" still wouldn't explain why SJM chose Azriel over everyone else (for example; why not make the prophecy around the Horn in Bryce's back and the remaining 3 Dread Trove items that Nesta can wield...?)

Instead, whenever there has been this much build-up or this much foreshadowing of a pairing... it's usually a sign that they are something special. Something more akin to mates - endgame.

[art by m_bohnet]

After all, consider things from Azriel's POV.

Sure, he has been busy with Mor and Elain and Gwyn (as people often tell me in response to this theory), but what happens when a beautiful woman from another world shows up, carrying the matching sword to his most prized knife? What happens when these weapons start glowing for one another in unison?

Don't you think Azriel would think something of this?

And, don't you think that if Elain or Gwyn had a sword that was the matching half to Azriel's knife (and a significant prophecy to boot!), it would be used as irrefutable evidence that their ship is endgame...?

But what about Hunt?

It's an opinion that earns me no favours in the fandom; but despite liking Hunt, I have always been sceptical about his relationship with Bryce (and am not yet convinced that they'll be endgame). This scepticism predates CC2 (and isn't just a feeling I conjured up in the hope that Bryce x Az will be endgame, as certain people assume).

For starters, both the Asteri and Apollion need Hunt and Bryce together to operate the Horn, and this is concerning.

To put it simply, Hunt was bred (for reasons we still don't yet know). However, as a result of Hunt's breeding, he possesses power that works with the Horn. In fact, CC2 makes clear that Hunt's lightning is the best source of power to "charge up" Bryce (and more specifically, the Horn).

“Your teleporting works when your power gets charged up by energy—considering what I heard about how quickly you ran out of steam with Hypaxia, Hunt’s is the best form of it.”

Bryce has the Horn in her back.

“Don’t think for one moment that Aidas and the Prince of the Pit have forgotten the Horn in your back. That Thanatos didn’t have it in mind when you spoke to him.”

To explain it in simple math terms:

Bryce + Hunt = fully operational Horn (they are like lock + key).

Apollion + Rigelus = both really want the Horn.

Apollion + Rigelus NEED Bryce + Hunt if they want a fully operational Horn.

In fact, we see Apollion egging Bryce and Hunt on to explore their powers more, and Rigelus fully admits to luring Bryce and Hunt to the Asteri palace at the end of CC2.

"Hunt’s blood iced over. “That was why you lured us here?” he found himself demanding of the Asteri, even as he roared with outrage at Bryce’s offer. Rigelus said, “I couldn’t very well snatch you off the streets. Not such notorious, public figures."

What's more, Bryce killed Micah, and Hunt killed Sandriel. The Asteri have punished (and killed) civilians for far less than that, but not only do the Asteri keep Bryce and Hunt alive, but they actively encourage their relationship together (and no one really questions that...).

"We also trust that this favor will serve as a reminder for you and Hunt Athalar. It is our deepest wish that you remain in the city, and live out your days in peace and contentment." "Fear gleamed in Hunt’s eyes. In her own, too, Bryce was sure. Nothing was ever this easy—this simple. There had to be a catch."

I just can't help but think of Maeve. She used her power to manipulate fate, leading Rowan to believe that Lyria was his mate instead of Aelin (for her own selfish gain).

Could it be possible that the Asteri, just like Maeve, have been... meddling with mating bonds for their own agenda - to use Bryce and Hunt for the Horn?

(Recall that in her latest interview, when asked if Bryce and Hunt's mating bond was the same as Feyre and Rhys's, SJM said "pass").

This leads to my second point.

The mating bond is a little strange between Bryce and Hunt.

I know this is a contentious subject, but there are enough people in the fandom who have stated a similar opinion for it to warrant suspicion. No one ever questions Rhys and Feyre's mating bond, nor Nesta or Cassian's, nor Aelin and Rowan's. But many don't buy Bryce and Hunt's mating bond.

In part, this is likely due to the nature of how it was initiated; after only knowing each other for 5 months, Hunt suggested calling each other mates because they couldn't find another term that fits. It happened randomly, and Bryce seemed to come up with a million different excuses initially; it just felt lacklustre in comparison to other mating bond reveals.

(That's not to invalidate Bryce and Hunt's clear affection for each other though - mating bond or not, their love for one another is more than evident).

“I thought that’s what this thing between us is.” “We’ve known each other for, like, five months.” “So?” “My mom will throw a fit. She’ll say we should date for at least two years before calling ourselves mates.”

But for me personally, it comes down to Bryce and Hunt's power (and the Horn). Again, using Throne of Glass as an example, when Maeve messed with Rowan's mating bond, she admitted that she didn't suspect Rowan and Aelin were mates once they met, because their carranam bond (which involves the sharing of power, as Bryce and Hunt do...) was masking the mating bond.

"I’ll admit I did not anticipate it. That I had broken Rowan Whitethorn so thoroughly that he did not recognize his own mate—that you were so broken by your own pain you didn’t notice, either. And when the signs appeared, the carranam bond washed away any suspicion on his part that you might be his."

Instead, the only indication that Aelin and Rowan were mates, was that they could feel each other's pain.

"Maeve ignored her. “Well? When did you know?” “At Temis’s temple,” Aelin admitted, glancing to Manon. “The moment the arrow went through his shoulder. Months ago.”

This is objectively absent in Bryce and Hunt. Not only that, but in the Bone Quarter, Bryce seems to question the validity of the mating bond herself:

"Hunt's lightning had stopped. Where was he? Would a mate know, would a mate feel-"

Which again, you have to wonder; if SJM is trying to sell Bryce x Hunt as endgame to her readers, why include this?

Further, even if Bryce and Hunt are mates, we don't yet know how this works across worlds. Given that the Cauldron (supposedly) assigns mating bonds in Prythian, and Bryce's "true world" is also Prythian, does Bryce have an additional Cauldron-assigned mating bond in that world too...?

Maybe that aligns with this tweet from SJM:

The Oracle.

In CC1, Hunt visits the Oracle, and she tells him to "keep well away from Bryce Quinlan."

"Do yourself a favour, Orion Athalar, and keep well away from Bryce Quinlan."

The Oracle could presumably see into Hunt's future, and could see whether he and Bryce live happily ever after. If this was the case, and the Oracle could indeed see such a happy outcome, then why would the Oracle say such a thing...? Why warn Hunt like that?

Similarly in CC1, Aidas reveals to Bryce that although the Oracle was blinded during her visit all those years ago... he wasn't. Aidas was there too, and he saw Bryce's future.

"Aidas had nearly vanished into nothing when he added, the words a ghost slithering through the room, "The Oracle did not see. But I did."

Yet in that exact same scene, Aidas turns to Hunt and has no idea who he is, asking "who are you?"

Hunt kept perfectly still as Aidas studied her. Then his eyes registered Hunt. He blinked—once. As if he had not really marked his presence until this moment. As if he hadn’t cared to notice, with Bryce before him. Hunt tucked away that fact, just as Aidas murmured, “Who are you.”

Thus, if Aidas has seen Bryce's future, and Bryce and Hunt are indeed endgame (and he is in her future)... then why didn't Aidas recognise Hunt?

Hunt's future.

If this theory is correct, and given that we have two beings with foresight (the Oracle and Aidas) hinting at Bryce and Hunt's ominous future... then what could possibly happen to Hunt

Theory 1) Hunt may die.

This theory has been around even since the HOEAB days, and is well-known by most (so I won't expand on it too much). However, the basic premise of it boils down to Hunt's birth name, Orion, and Orion being famously killed (often by his lover) in mythology. Perhaps this also explains the Oracle's warning to him.

Recall also the quote repeated again and again (often by Hunt);

"Memento Mori. Remember that you will die. They now seemed more of a promise than the mild reminder from the Meat Market."

Similarly, knowing what happened to Sam in Throne of Glass, I find this parallel to Bryce and Hunt a little uncanny (and is exactly what we mean when we talk about death flags...).

[Sam and Aelin]: "I can wait," he said thickly, kissing her collarbone. "We have all the time in the world." Maybe he was right. And spending all the time in the world with Sam ... that was a treasure worth paying anything for."

[Bryce and Hunt]: "Assuming I live through it, you mean." "Assuming you live through taking on the Archangels and Asteri, what then?" "I don't know." He gave her a half smile. "Maybe you and I can figure it out, Quinlan. We'll have centuries to do it."

2. Hunt may become an Asteri weapon; an (unwilling) villain.

In fact, it has recently been theorised (such as in this post here) that Hunt may already have acted as an Asteri weapon in the past, and may have even had a part to play in Danika's death. As unbelievable as this may sound, consider these two quotes.

In HOEAB, Hunt remarks that his victims always said the same words; "please."

“Please.” It was always the same word. The only word people tended to say when the Umbra Mortis stood before them.

Then, this is the only audio we hear of Danika right before she dies:

"And then someone was roaring—a feral wolf’s roar. “Please, please—” The words were cut off. But the hall camera’s audio wasn’t."

To that people would say "Hunt would never!" And rightly so. However, consider that:

Hunt didn't know Bryce when this occurred.

Hunt was already tasked with killing one of Bryce's friends; Fury. Twice. The only reason it didn't happen was because someone higher up halted the orders.

"Micah had even ordered Hunt to kill her. Twice. But she had too many high-powered allies. Some, it was whispered, on the Imperial Senate. So both times, Micah had decided that the fallout over the Umbra Mortis turning Fury Axtar into veritable toast would be more trouble than it was worth."

However, regardless of whether this theory is true or not (as sure, perhaps the wording could be coincidence), one cannot deny the connection between the names of Hunt (Orion) and the Asteri; all named after stars and/or constellations.

In fact, Sirius (the 7th Asteri), is known as Orion's hunting dog in mythology.

And Rigel (as in Rigelus), is the brightest star in the Orion constellation.

Consider also Rigelus's words to Hunt; "I thought we were friends, Orion," and something just seems... off.

(Though, I'd be happy to be proven wrong, as Hunt is one of my favourite SJM males. Just because I think an awful thing could happen, doesn't mean I want it to happen).

What about Gwynriel/Elriel?

Another topic that I won't touch on in too much depth, as I'm sure that most people are already familiar with the points for and against these ships.

The only thing I will say is that things change. What ships appear to be canon or strongly foreshadowed in one book can totally change in the next. SJM has said as much herself (as outlined in the FAQ section on her personal website):

"Will [my favourite couple] be endgame?" "No spoilers! In all seriousness, while I do have ideas for all my currently contracted books, I would never guarantee any plot points or pairings until each book is written. I've been surprised by where characters have taken me before!"

But we also know this is true based on the Throne of Glass ship wars that raged on back in the day. If we were to time-travel back to 2012 and 2013 (when the first two TOG books were released), we'd see people arguing as to whether Aelin (Celeana) would end up with Chaol or Dorian. There was no third option.

And then in the third book, Rowan was introduced. But even then people denied the possibility of his romance with Aelin, instead siding with Chaol, with arguments such as:

"Rowan already has a mate!"

"Rowan and Aelin are probably just related and nothing more!"

"Rowan and Aelin are from two different kingdoms, it would never work. Chaol is back home in Rifthold waiting for her!"

(Sound familiar...?)

It was also argued that Chaol and Aelin would be endgame instead, given the mate-adjacent language that was used between them:

"Far inside of her, she found a golden chain that bound them together."

"The rest of the world quieted... she looked at him and realised she was home."

"She knew his every move and he knew hers, as though they'd been dancing this waltz together all their lives."

"It somehow felt as if it had always been Chaol, even from the beginning, even before they'd ever met."

But nope -- in the third book, Aelin stumbled into a foreign land and came face to face with Rowan; her true, fated mate.

In fact, this speaks to a certain SJM pattern I have noticed:

Aelin is forced to leave Rifthold for Wendlyn (oh no!)... but then she meets Rowan.

Chaol and Nesryn are forced to leave Rifthold for the Southern Continent (oh no!)... but then they meet Yrene and Sartaq.

Feyre is forced to leave the Spring Court for the Night Court (oh no!)... but then she meets Rhys.

Nesta is forced to leave the human lands for the faerie lands (oh no!)... but then she meets Cassian.

Now, Bryce has been forced to leave Midgard for Prythian (oh no!)... and she falls right in front of Azriel. He "gently" blindfolds her, grabs her hand, chucks her over his shoulder, and their matching weapons start glowing "in answer" to each other... and this is supposedly just a crackship?

And I get it; there's already Bryce and Hunt. And Azriel and Gwyn. And Azriel and Elain. However, I do think it's interesting that at present, the two biggest debates within the fandom are:

Are Bryce and Hunt truly mates/endgame?

Will Gwynriel or Elriel be endgame?

If any of these ships were a slam-dunk guarantee... these debates just simply wouldn't exist. Point is, with SJM (and especially with the multiverse opening up)... the possibilities are endless.

And, the promise of Bryce and Azriel is just one of these possibilities, but it's my favourite one of all.

After all, stars cannot shine without darkness.

(P.S. Some of these points were first identified by my friends - so credit and a huge thank you to them! ❤️)

[acourtofquestions]

A new day, and the final one (to put it dramatically cause I’m in the feels)

Kingdom of Ash Chapter 100 here I come… I’ll see you in some random spam mini posts (maybe — I’m mostly reading at this point non-stop lol) but there shall be some large posts after the Epilogue…

Mostly right now theories, thoughts, concerns😅: I’m pondering Aelin’s power; she hasn’t had it most of the series and doesn’t need it but we do have 1,000 Ironteeth + Maeve & Erawan on the way (currently my theory is she’s been storing her magic in Goldryn somehow and will be able to use it to unleash her power at an insane level… mostly because they keep mentioning the ruby looked like it’s sparking or her hands on it and it’s rare that SJM does that at this frequency without reason), plus Maeve is out of magic so she should be ready, & Dorian is fired up for his father against Erawan; maybe with Aelin combined they can do it. Or a classic Rowaelin Carranam. And I bet Essar can teach her the gifts in small ways.

I’m hoping Lys meets Falkan (my soul needs this). I need Gavriel & Aedion to makeup & get their oaths (Ren too), gotta get that LysAedion kiss (and no one better die). I need Dorian to go comfort Manon along with everyone else because they understand; Aelin, Elide… Terrasen’s children lost everyone. I need a Kingsflame bloomed and a coronation, I’d like to know who the heck killed Aelin’s parents and what does the damn owl mean! I want Aelin to meet Nox! I want Fleetfoot to meet Abraxos! I wanna know the Chaorene baby name😂 I want at least one scene of Empress Nesryn! Lady of the Ghost Leopards Lys! GIVE ME A MANORIAN “I LOVE YOU”. And wants/hopes that prob won’t happen but I’m saying it anyway: I know it probably won’t but I’d love if Elena got some sliver of peace. I want the white wolf and the wolf together, Aelin & Rhoe’s Shield + an Aedion reunion & an Evangeline/Fleetfoot/family hug, one moment of all of them together (again no one dies immediately after). AND THEY ALL DESERVE A SOFT EPILOGUE & future with long therapy filled lives! & a Rowaelin baby since they’ve both said they want a family together like that🥹

Mostly I’m worried over people dying… Sarah has proven that she will & can kill a lot of characters at once… I am in shock & grieving so… A little worried about about Dorian but I think he’ll be fine, a lot of worry about side characters: Murtaugh (for Ren), Ren (generally speaking which would suck cause I want to know him more), Kyllian (Aedion clearly loves him I don’t want to see that heartbreak), Ansel (because her people are gone and Manon is the Witch-Queen… I’d prefer an alliance, healing moment cause they both lost them all & maybe see if she’s got a thing going with Ilias cause the irony there👌😂👏). Hafiza (for Yrene; please don’t do another big sacrifice… I’ve already lost twelve today😭 the number is off… no…), oh and I’m pretty sure Darrow will die. Then the bigger ones: above all The Cadre have me concerned; Lorcan (cause him & Elide will always be running out of time), Fenrys (for Aelin or Lorcan), Gavriel (for his son). & otherwise: Aedion (he does not need to die for redemption Sarah DONT YOU DARE).

So, here we go… the first read of the ending of the books I’ve loved since February and will carry with me always… with a lil bit of sleep & the day complete with nothing but reading time: Beginning with Chapter 100: Aedion

P.S. I’ve got Crescent City; House of Earth & Blood on standby to read tonight (I need to pour my feelings in another book with the hope of maybe seeing Aelin again😭) I don’t care if it’s denial I don’t wanna know I just need it🤣

[chairofchaos]

AO3 Chaos

I invite anyone who is interested to 1) Respond to these questions and 2) TELL ME WHAT YOUR AO3 IS SO I CAN FIND YOU THERE!

Thank you @c-starstuff-man0 for the tag! (I think someone else also tagged me but I could not find it- so thank you to you, as well, whoever you are!)

1. How many works do you have on AO3? I currently have 7 works up on AO3.

2. What's your total AO3 word count? 26,150. (That will easily double when I start posting Letters of Love, since LoL is already about 40,000 words. Oops!)

3. What fandoms do you write for? On AO3, currently only ACOTAR and Crescent City (so, SJM Universe stuff)

4. What are your top 5 fics by kudos? (I linked my AO3 at the bottom if you want to go check any of these out!)

The Power of Jewelry (Azris, fluff)

When the Blood Burns (Azris, angst/MCD stuff)

Stormy Night in the Library (Azriel x Reader, fluff)

Death & All That Follows (Azris, definitely angst at this point). This is hilarious because it’s only half done and I’m not sure I like the ending I’ve written, which means it could go happy or sad and I don’t know how to feel about that.

Even In the Dark (Cassian x Reader, hurt/comfort and kind of fluffy) I won’t lie I had to revisit this one to remember what it was lol

5. Do you respond to comments? Yes, and I’m mean about it. Sorry to anyone who has been on the receiving end of a teasing chaos comment. I maybe have too much fun dangling teasers like carrots on a stick...

6. What is the fic you wrote with the angstiest ending? Hahahha. Uh. Probably When the Blood Burns. For now, anyways.

7. What's the fic you wrote with the happiest ending? (Do I write happy endings?) Stormy Night in the Library takes my vote for this, though Say It’s True (Mor x Emerie) is also cute and ends happily. I love them. 

8. Do you write smut? Yes. There are some smutty elements to things I have posted. I haven’t written anything specifically for smut though.

9. Do you write crossovers? Nothing that’s posted.

10. Have you ever had a fic translated? Nope.

11. Have you ever co-written a fic before? Uh… not on AO3! (But if you want to check out the Gold Star Crack Headcanons @ninthcircleofprythian and I wrote a little bit ago here they are!)

12. What is your all-time favorite ship? Please. Please don’t hate me. I’ve been on a Dramione train for years now. I know it’s controversial. I can’t get them out of my head.

13. What's a WIP you want to finish but doubt you ever will? Would it be bad if I said “Letters of Love”? No. I want to finish it so badly. I do. I’m just scared. I’m working on it, I swear. It just feels monstrous at this point. 

In actuality, I think it’s the crossover that I’m working on. It’s a Throne of Glass/ACOTAR/Crescent City monstrosity that would be roughly 400 9x11 pages long, 12 pt font single spaced with formatting. It started as a romance, morphed into a second-gen TOG x ACOTAR throuple adventure and political drama. Now I just don’t know what to do with it because the universe I’ve imagined for this is so insane and I cannot do it justice.

14. What are your writing strengths? I write with my whole heart, and I care about every word. I’ve been practicing for years.

15. What are your writing weaknesses? Mental illness. Procrastination. Writing 10k in 24 hours and then never finishing that work. I overthink everything. Next question. Please.

16. Thoughts on writing dialogue in another language in fic? I love it. However, I much prefer it when it’s canon that the character speaks another language. I feel awkward prescribing languages to characters unless it’s some sort of AU. I read an incredible Azris AU (linked HERE, check the tags please, written by the wonderful @annaskareninas for Azris Week) where Eris is Italian, and it worked beautifully because it was an AU! But if I was writing in universe, I would have a harder time making Eris speak Italian because for all we know they’re speaking Fae Language We Don't Have a Name For and Italian doesn’t exist in the universe. It’s a mental block for me. I don't mind reading it though!

17. First fandom you wrote for? …Harry Potter. It was 2011, okay?! However, the first I ever POSTED was Percy Jackson. Don't ask me where they ended up, it was a long time ago and those secrets were lost to the sea

18. Favorite fic you’ve written? When the Blood Burns. It hurts just right.

Tags (no pressure!): @positivelyruined @annaskareninas @ ANYONE WHO WANTS TO DO THIS! Also, let me know what your AO3 is in replies or reblogs. I need to follow more of you over there <3

My AO3 is keyboard_clacks, or chairofchaos. I post and respond to comments under both pseuds! Find Me Here!

[hb-writes]

Love Fest 2024

As promised, I'm opening up requests for a brief time for some love-related requests. The intention is for these to be fairly short fics (maybe five line fanfics, maybe some drabbles, maybe some a bit longer).

In your requests, please provide the following:

💛 A dialogue prompt (Just one per ask, please. I've included some lists at the bottom of this post for inspo, but feel free to send in whatever you have in mind).

💛 Character, Pairing, and/ or Fandom preference. (I'll write for canon characters and my OCs. I'll also write "reader" but I don't really write "you or y/n" so know it'll likely in 3rd person).

💛 Preference for platonic/ romantic (if it's not already clear from the chosen prompt. The goal of this is for me to work on my romance/ spicy writing, but y'all know I love platonic/ familial love, too, so if that's more your preference, please send those in).

Prompt Lists:

💛 Kisses Prompts

💛 Pre-Established Relationship Prompts

💛 Sharing a Bed Prompts

💛 Sultry Prompt List

💛 I Love You Dialogue Responses

💛 Ways to Say I Love You

💛 One-Hundred Compliments

Fandoms:

Bridgerton, The Family Stone, Fifty Shades, The Haunting of Hill House, The Haunting of Bly Manor, Marvel, Peaky Blinders, The Punisher, Sherlock BBC, Suits, Supernatural, True Blood, Twilight, White Collar, A Discovery of Witches, ACOTAR/ Throne of Glass/ Crescent City, Daredevil. (Have something else in mind? Feel free to send an ask anyway and I'll write it if I can).

[yanny-77]

I would love for you to ask questions!

I've read everything by SJM. Am I catching a hint of a multiverse idea here?

-Santa/Satan

I apologize in advance for what a mixed bag these responses are lmfao

1. What ACOTAR book is your favorite and why?

Crescent City is my favorite SJM series but that’s not what you asked, so instead I’ll tell you why ACOSF is my favorite ACOTAR book…

- I LOVE Nesta

- I LOVE Cassian

- I love the girl power aspect and the Valkyries

- I love the lore expansion with the dread trove and the set up for conflicts in Illyria and with Koschei

- There’s so much Eris content in ACOSF and I HAVE to know everything

- Azris crumbs

2. Do you have any favorite ACOTAR scenes? Burning questions you wish canon answered but doesn't?

- My favorite ACOTAR scene is where Feyre fakes the nightmare and Tamlin catches Lucien embracing her. Ngl, Feyre and Lulu should have been endgame.

- I also desperately want to know what’s next for the Autumn court and to know the full truth about what went down between Eris & Mor.

- Wtf has Mor been doing on the content for so long?

- Also, I always love coming out scenes.

3. Do you like fics that are prequels, sequels, or concurrent with canon? Or a combination there of?

- I prefer fics that are sequels or are concurrent with canon.

- I’m currently rewriting a fic from an alternate POV so I know first hand how challenging but rewarding concurrent fics can be

- I don’t dislike prequels, I just prefer the other two options

4. Other than Mor, Nesta, and Az are there any characters you want to see in this fic?

My favorite characters in the series are Mor, Nesta, Eris, Lucien and Cassian. Sprinkle in as many as you can but don’t feel like you have to have them all. I won’t say no to Helion or Tarquin either.

FULL MAASVERSE SPOILERS BENEATH THE CUT

For questions 2&3, I would love a fic that looks at the future based on the HOFAS revelations. I am dying to know how the Night Court and Prythian changes without the Daglan under the prison. Like oh my god.

Also how does Azriel’s relationship with truth teller change after being reunited with Gwydion? Does he wield both weapons? How did truth teller come to be in his possession anyway?

In general, I had so much fun with the Azriel/Nesta parts of HOFAS. It got me excited for acotar again!

[cassianandfenrysaremyboyos]

Hello:) I wanted to ask if Crescent City is essential for Acotar characters. I just found out Nesta and Cassian had a cameo? Like which timeline? After ACOSF

Hello! Tbh I don't know?? I'll be able to tell you more in a few weeks after CC3 comes out and I've read it, but for now I'm not sure.

In case you were unaware (and spoilers ahead for CC2 so don't read ahead if you don't want to know) one of the CC characters ended up in Prythian at the end of CC2 and this character is going to spend at least the start of CC3 in Prythian with the Acotar characters, because Sarah decided to cross over both series (which is the bane of my existence lol, because both hosab and acosf suffered from Sarah trying to push them into a cross over. I'd personally prefer to keep them seperate, but here we are so hopefully it will be really good!)

Anyway yeah the timeline for this is post ACOSF. How much this will affect the acotar plots and the next acotar book I don't know at this stage? So I don't know how essential reading both series will be. My best guess would be that it's probably ideal/recommended to have read both but hopefully not absolutely essential?

I think Sarah at first said you wouldn't have to read both, but then later said you should read both? Or something along those lines. So it really remains to be seen anon. I'm sorry I couldn't be more helpful. If it helps any I love CC, Hoeab is my top sjm book after acomaf so you might just enjoy reading CC anyway?!

[despairmakoto]

Stealing this meme.

happy endings or sad endings / full moon or crescent moon (aesthetically i like full moon more but it messes with me so...!!!)/ sushi rolls or burgers (but i like both ;_;) / listening or talking (both important though, they're pretty equal to me) / summer or winter (yknow before i would have said winter but i hate driving in snow so yeah) / the sea or the mountains / apartment or own house (i don't have one yet but i want one) / autumn or spring / loud music or quiet music (depends though, i kinda prefer in between) / morning or evening / sun or moon / regrets or no regrets (i don't WANT them but i HAVE them) / big city or small town (once again i prefer in between) / walk or car ride / day or night / love at first sight or slowly falling in love (idc i love love of all kinds) / showers or baths / coke or pepsi / cats or dogs / heat or cold / gold or silver / texting or calling / clowns or no clowns (???) / sunny or rainy (depends) / long fics or ficlets (both good i just have adhd lol) / white or black / rivers or lakes / sunsets or sunrises / movie or series (or both :)...) / dark or light / pizza or pasta / classics or fanfiction / piercings or no piercings (not on me, anyway) / bright or pastel / yes or no

Anyone who wants to do it can! I'm not gonna tag anyone to do it.

[sunshinebingo]

Hello! Secret 🎅 here

I’ll be working on your gift soon and wanted to ask a few more questions 🤗

Is there any specific type of music that you don’t like? Or are you okay with any genre? And who are some of your favorite artists?

Is Spotify okay? Or would you prefer another music platform?

What gift (or gifts) do you think Azriel would get Gwyn for Solstice? Or what would you like to see him get her?

A few theory/prediction questions 🧐

Do you think that Rhys and Ruhn are from the same bloodline and that’s why they look alike? Or do you think that they’re just doppelgängers?

Do you think that Azriel has any relation to the Avallen Fae? Or do you think that his shadow abilities don’t have any relation to theirs?

What powers do you think Gwyn might have?

How many chapters in CC3 do you think the ACOTAR gang will be in? Do you want them to play a big role? Or do you want them to have minor roles?

Are you hoping to see Aelin and crew in the crossover?

Hope you have a happy thanksgiving! 🍽 🍁 😄

Hi there! 😊

1. The only type of music that I'm not really into is country. Apart from that my music taste is very eclectic so it's the same for my favourite artists. The ones I have listened to the most recently are Lord Huron, Hozier and Jessie Reyez. But these are just a few among others. I also listen to a lot of French artist since French and English are both second languages here.

Spotify is okay no worries 😉

2. I think it would be cool if he gets her a dagger. Or anything that she will have to use anyway but it's going to be extra special because it's from him (that's the kind of gifts I prefer for myself😅) . Also if it's a dagger, they would match and he wouldn't be the only one sleeping with his favourite weapon under his pillow.

Ok now onto the theories/predictions...

1. They could be just doppelgängers but knowing sjm it has to mean something. I mean apart from Vaughan who is still missing, everything she includes in her books comes with a surprise later. And yet we are still shocked by the reveal.

2. I initially thought that this was also just coincidental. But then there were a few elements indicating that the world of Acotar and Crescent City are related. Maybe Azriel and the Avallen Fae have common ancestors with shadow abilities. And maybe they ended up evolving in different places which led their abilities to change/morph.

3. I really enjoy reading fanfics where Gwyn has Autumn Court magic. However from Nesta's pov, Gwyn was literally glowing which hints that she could have powers that originate from another court. I believe many of us is set on her having Autumn magic because we know she has at least 1 relative from the Autumn Court. But we also know about her having a relative from Spring and we don't know where her father is from so he could be from any of the courts.

4. I have absolutely no clue as to the extent to which the Acotar characters will be present in the next Crescent City. Of course there is the ongoing debate about who will be the next acotar character to have their own book and to me everything is pointing towards Azriel. There is also indications that he will have a role to play in the cross over because of truth teller. But how much of development for the acotar world will we get in the next Crescent City? Idk. Also will the Acotar characters be present only in the 3rd Crescent City book? Or will they also make an appearance if there is a 4th book? No clue but I'm thrilled about it 😄

5. If Aelin and the crew show up in the cross over I will die. Hopefully not for long cause I will need to read the rest. Yes I hope that they will join the party but I don't know if it will happen.

6. This is the nickname question you asked me later...hope it's fine if I answer it here.

I don't like babe or sweetheart as nicknames. I don't think lady suit them. I guess I prefer love. Or priestess or Valkyrie is fine. Or Gwyneth. Since everybody else calls her just Gwyn, i think it's fun that it is just him using her full name.

Thanks again for all your questions. It's been fun as usual. Unfortunately we don't celebrate thanksgiving where I live but thank you very much! Happy Thanksgiving to you 😄❤️

[witch-hazels-musings]

Hey Hazel! First time participating in an event of yours so I'm excited to see the stuff you create! Could I maybe get a divination for Xiao with coffee aroma and the star, crescent moon and square symbols? I hope you have fun with your other requests!

aroma: coffee (domestic) | symbols: star (protection), crescent moon (prosperity), square (comfort), boat (unexpected visit)

:: xiao x gn reader | sfw - fluff | tasseography event | combined request

You enjoyed the sun shining across your yard, the way it stretched toward your small decorative garden and reached the well-swept patio. It was a quiet day. The birds bathed in the fountain, they chirped as they landed on the bird feeder or flew away to go on with their tasks. You loved watching them in between your work, your face lifting toward their brightness before returning to weave the basket.

It was busy, living out in the wilds on the edge of Liyue harbor instead of in the bustling city, but you didn’t mind. You preferred the quiet reprieve of your mountainside village. Neighbors were distant but welcome when they dropped by and you knew if you ever needed something, they were there. 

A bird sang a hello and you whistled with the same clarity, your cheeks puffing out as you called to them and smiling when you heard their reply. “Eat up, friend. I have plenty.” 

You went back to your work but sensed a familiar gust of wind. For a second you thought it was just a message, a reminder that he was out there, thinking of you, missing you, but when the trails of green appeared in your vision, you knew it wasn’t the case. As soon as he appeared, you stood and greeted him with an energy that started the birds. 

“Welcome home!” you sang, arms wrapping around his neck as you embraced him. He did the same, though with less contact. A gentle hand touching your lower back to let you know he accepted you. “I wasn’t expecting you.” 

“My duties are not needed now and I --” he trailed off but you knew it was because he struggled relaying his emotions. Pulling away you noticed his cheeks grow pink and eyes shy away. 

“You missed me.” 

“Yes. I missed you,” he replied and rested his forehead against you. Even though Xiao was small, there were times you got a huge urge to lift him in your arms but you knew he didn’t like that much - he said so the last time you did it. 

“I missed you, too.” The two of you lingered in your connection for a long time. So long that the birds returned to their food and the more curious ones landed next to the basket that tumbled from your lap. When his energy seemed more recharged, and your heart could bear to part, you stepped away and settled onto the ground. 

“What are you doing?” 

“I’m making a basket, would you like to join me.” Xiao huffed but sat at your side anyway. You were glad he chose to relax on the cushion you left out just for him instead of sitting in the many other places he chose months ago. 

When you first met Xiao, you found yourself in a rather unfortunate predicament. A group of Hillichurls had been using the path you took to travel between your village and the city, and though you could normally avoid their detection, this time they seemed far more aggressive. It was one of the scariest nights of your life but, luckily, with the unexpected appearance of the vigilant Yaksha, all that suffered that evening was your bread. 

Even since then, you noticed Xiao in more place than before. Once you learned his name he started appearing in your village, walking you too and from the harbor when he had the chance too. He even watched the Lantern Rite festival with you when normally he stayed away. You understood the feeling. Being around that many people was overwhelming at times, and being a Yaksha meant added pressure. 

It took so long for him to grow comfortable enough to be with you when it wasn’t necessary, it took so long for him to accept your touch - even when he was hurt he found it hard to allow you to help him. You were persistent though, patient, kind, and though you weren’t really sure why he finally took the next step with you, you were certain it was because of your consideration for his wishes. 

“Are you hungry? I can make something.” 

“It’s alright. Don’t do anything unnecessary.” 

“Yes, yes. I know.” You weaved the leaves through the last section of the basket. Considering you’d been doing this all your life, this one looked far better than the one you made as a child. It was good too, because you needed it to carry the fruit down from the hill. “If you’d like then, we can go pick fruit from the orchard?” 

Xiao lifted his head but instead of answering you, he stood, extended his hand and helped you up. Xiao didn’t let go until your legs had finished tingling and you were steady on your own. 

“Ready?” 

He nodded but before you could make your way toward the path, he reached for the basket. “I’ll carry this for you.” 

Smiling, warm, happy, you leaned toward him to press a gentle kiss to his cheek. He blushed and gazed at you with those intense, golden eyes, but didn’t move otherwise. 

“Shall we go?” He asked, flustered but only in ways that you could see.

“Mmhm, lets go,” you replied, a small chuckle floating around you as you made your way to the path and toward the village orchard. 

@clemmywrites | all works & ideas created by Hazel, recreations, reposts not allowed even with credit provided

[kairinds]

elijah marrying someone sensitive

a/n: i made reader a crescent wolf just to change it up a bit. hope that’s okay. and it’s gender neutral.

okay so to go over the basics, the two of you met in new orleans and you’re descended from the crescent wolves

yeah, so like hayley with jackson, he’d always see you around at night in your full form before the curse was reversed and even though he knew he shouldn’t have cared that much, he did

there was just something about you that would draw him to you and he’d never look back

you were kind of like a guardian figure and always seemed to show up when he was trouble which made him think you were kind of foolish but there was something else that he felt

anyways, the crescent curse was reversed and he see you in passing and he immediately knew it was you which would definitely confuse you but it’d made sense after you’d get to know him better

the two of you tried to take things slowly but i think the two of you would work so well that it would become kind of impossible fast

things wouldn’t be perfect because what is but you’d be just right for each because you’d balance each other out pretty well and the pull that you had would be next level

elijah would learn pretty early on in your relationship that you were a sensitive person and i think that would interest him

it’s just that he was so used to putting on this mask and jumping into action before he truly processed what he was feeling

oh and the fact that you're a werewolf who felt things so deeply and he’d realize his mistake of being so close-minded in thinking that werewolves, or anyone supernatural, couldn’t show vulnerability

like, seeing you be able to break down in front of him during a full moon as every bone in your body broke would make him realize that there’s so much more to being strong and that he could learn a few things from you

also, it was in that moment that he realized that he wanted to be so much more to you

he’d wait until whatever was going on in the city to cool off before he’d whisk you away to a mansion to propose and yes it would be straight out of a dream and a bit much but you know elijah and how he’d never give you anything other than the best

it’s a super romantic setting with that would leave you in awe and elijah would be more of a gentlemen than he normally is if that’s even possible

he’d give you a little tour of the house but you’d both probably get a little distracted which would lead to you making out in one of the huge rooms but it’d be fine

but the best was after a nice dinner when elijah would get down on one knee and present the most beautiful, elegant ring

he’d have stars in his eyes as you’d blink away tears and say ‘yes’

okay so a little time jump to the wedding

it’d be a mix of fancy from elijah and your preferred decor style because he wouldn’t be happy until you were satisfied (wedding planning was pretty much a breeze)

of course elijah would spoil you, all you’d have to do is say what you wanted to have at the wedding and he’d make sure that you get it and not only because it’s your special day but also because he’d do anything for you

so, the actual wedding would be even better than a dream honestly

you’d be so nervous before the ceremony but the moment you see elijah you’d feel better

he’d stare at you as you’d walk down the isle like you hung the moon and it would definitely make you blush

now you’d expect him to be emotional as you said your vows but it’d surprise you at how vulnerable elijah would allow himself to be but at the same time it would be a beautiful money for both of you

he’d hold onto the whole night but would finally let you go to thank everyone for showing up but he’d still be close behind, a hand on your waist right before he’d pull you back into his arms for another slow dance

even though you’d think being sensitive was a downfall, elijah would make sure to remind you just how strong that’d make you

like i said before, i think elijah marrying someone sensitive would balance him out and help him see that there are more ways someone can be strong

of course, he’d still try to protect you and would forever cherish you because he’d know that what you had didn’t come by easily

please excuse me while i go sob in a corner. thanks for reading!

[forthegothicheroine]

The King in Yellow, 1949

Much of this story is true.  Warnings in the tags.

When I had pneumonia in my early teens, my mother brought home an armful of VHS tapes from the library to alleviate my misery.  Knowing my snobbish preferences, she had grabbed copies of whatever she found in black and white.  I remember something musical that I suspect was Busby Berkeley, I remember Mildred Pierce (a bad choice, as it turned out- the plot includes a young girl dying of pneumonia), and I remember a period piece called The King.  I faded in and out of consciousness while I watched it, but it soothed me while I was awake and filled my fever dreams with sparkling images.  I could never find it at the library again, nor at Hollywood Video or even early Netflix (once my father got the subscription service where you could order practically every DVD.)  It was a bit odd that it seemed to be so obscure, given that it starred old Hollywood legend Ingrid Bergman (and, although I initially forgot it, Marlene Dietrich.)  But even big stars make films that fall by the wayside in public memory, and it seemed that this was one of them.  Google was no help, and at the time that was that.

I didn’t see the film again until I was watching Turner Classic Movies at my grandparents’ house.  I loved watching that channel with them while filling out the crossword puzzle that came in their little TCM catalogue (all of it based on movie trivia, the only kind of crossword puzzle I’ve ever been any good at.)  I recognized a certain scene where Bergman stood on a balcony, looking sadly at the moon.  Her face had an expression of unutterable melancholy, and the crescent moon reflected in each of her eyes, giving the impression of two moons in one sky.  I had very little time to catch up on what I’d missed before we had to go meet my cousins at the local Italian restaurant.  I knew logically that the movie would be long over by the time we returned, but I turned on the channel anyway.  Of course it had moved on to the lesser known Alfred Hitchcock film Stage Fright, but then I heard Marlene Dietrich sing before I could reach the remote to turn the tv off in disappointment.  I knew that I had heard her sing before, and I knew it had been in The King.

Dietrich’s singing often comes across as somewhat campy today, with its Rs pronounced as Ws and it’s up-and-down tone.  Madeline Kahn parodied it brilliantly in Blazing Saddles, such that it was a bit of a disappointment when I finally saw Dietrich’s western Destry Rides Again and found it to be lifeless and inconsistent next to the parody.  Still, we remember her voice for a reason, and when I remembered it that night, I knew that its sardonic loneliness had rung through The King and made me shiver in my dreams.

The TCM schedule didn’t list The King in its time slot, but something else.  If I had taken down the name, maybe it would have helped me find it.  Sometimes the same movie runs under multiple names.

I didn’t see the film all the way through for many years, after I graduated college.  I had found a web page that listed public domain film noir, including one called The Masked Guest.  The website described it as a costume noir, and I curiously clicked on the link.  Once I took in the credits running on the youtube window, my eyes grew wide and I did not move from my place on the bed until the movie had run its course.

The credits did indeed list it as The Masked Guest, but I recognized the strange repeating design on the title cards.  They told me that in addition to starring Dietrich and Bergman, it was directed by Fritz Lang, and a character called The King was credited to “???”  (I hadn’t seen that kind of credit since the first Karloff Frankenstein.)  When the King finally appears on screen, though, it is unmistakably Orson Welles’s voice that booms out from behind his elaborate costume.

Here are the things I understand about The King, or The Masked Guest, or The Man in Yellow, or any other title I’ve found for it on public domain archive searches.  Dietrich and Bergman play princesses named Cassilda and Camilla, respectively.  Though Dietrich’s accent is German and Bergman’s is Swedish, they blend together to give the film the impression of being set somewhere on the map that I can’t quite find.  The scenery and camera angles are very Freudian, with a great deal of archways and pillars.

The first act of The King involves frankly dull romantic plotlines, and the only thing that really saved it was the feeling that the suitors were supposed to be insipid, a suspicion lended credence by the fact that the love interests were listed so low on the credits.  Dietrich is the scandalous sister and Bergman is the responsible one, though each takes on aspects of the other as the film goes on.  Dietrich sings her song at a party, dressed in a fake 17th century gown and leaning against a piano.  Although just a moment ago she had been laughing and joking with her gentleman friends, her song takes an abruptly serious tone (not seductive, not sentimental) as she tells the story of a city lost to time and memory.  Bergman slips away from the party and onto the balcony, where we see that wonderful shot of the moon in her eyes.  Is she mourning?  Is she longing?

Dietrich cuts off the song by abruptly screaming “Not on us, King!  Not on us!”  She flees the party weeping and shaking, and from there on the film goes mad.

Though uncommon, it is not unknown for movies to switch between black and white and color, done most famously in The Wizard of Oz.  The film The King recalls here is the silent Phantom of the Opera, which had a masqued ball scene tinted in shades of red and green that tried to provide a whole spectrum of color.  The effect is even odder in the masqued ball scene in The King- the only color that appears is yellow, highlighting things like candlelight, Dietrich’s hair, a passing gown, a vase of tulips.  It also highlights one particular masked figure, whose expressionless mask was decorated with a black pattern against a sickening yellow canvas- the same pattern I had seen in the opening credits.  The color of his costume causes him to stand out from the crown even when he is far off in the background, just one head among many others.  It must have taken long and painstaking hours of work to color in every frame.

Dietrich still seems broken up days after her song, though Bergman tries to coax her into joining the dance.  Finally, at midnight, Dietrich goes out to face the party, but only to demand that every guest remove their mask.  The yellow man with a voice that once warned America about a Martian invasion tells her that he wears no mask.  Bergman reacts with disbelief, but Dietrich starts laughing like a woman unhinged.  As she laughs, the yellow hue seeps out of the King’s clothing and face- if that really is his face- and begins to color the entire ballroom crowd.  I think that what follows is bloodshed, but if there is any carnage (doubtful under the Production Code censorship), the blood must be tainted yellow and splashed across the camera like daubs of paint.  Dietrich’s laughing face is doubled and tripled on screen until it dissipates, but even when it has faded offscreen, it feels as if her ghost continues to watch the proceedings.  

By the end of the scene (filled with German Expressionist camera angles and mad violin screeching), only Bergman remains alive, cowering behind a grandfather clock.  It does not hide her for long.  The King steps towards her and extends his hand.  Reluctantly, but with a fatalistic expression, Bergman takes his hand.  They walk away together hand in hand.  The screen shifts back into black and white, and then the credits roll before we can get a good look at all the bodies in the scene.  The credits say it was based on a play called The King in Yellow, although Raymond Chandler of all people apparently had a hand in the screenplay.

As I said, that’s what I think I understand.  It’s an oddly experimental art film for the era, and it may be awaiting rediscovery by the film festival crowd.  I feel as if I alone know about it, though that obviously isn’t true.  It is my little secret; I tell myself that my husband doesn’t need me to show it to him, it would be too odd for his taste.  I’ve rewatched it many times, even if it seems like each time I search for it I have to find a different video platform or torrent.  Naturally, no subscription site has it available.  Maybe I am the last person who will ever watch it.  Maybe no one will ever think to look for it again after me, and it will be completely forgotten.

When I was hospitalized, they let me use my laptop at night before I went to sleep (no power cord, though, in case I tried to hang myself.)  I found a youtube link for The Man in Yellow, and I watched it every night.  It wasn’t a soothing sort of movie, but having it in my mind all day and then watching it in the evening allowed me to think as opposed to crying endlessly while the other patients shot me awkward looks.  I clutched the childhood stuffed animals my mother brought me when she visited, and I always held them extra tight when the masquerade scene started.

I watched the movie when I had to move away from my beloved San Francisco.  I watched the movie when I lost the last of my grandparents.  I watched the movie when a doctor unwisely took me off my medication and I couldn’t manage to eat for a month.  I watched the movie when the whole world got sick and we all locked ourselves away from each other.  I don’t mind that I don’t entirely know what it means.  I don’t mind the nightmares.  In the hospital they kept telling us about mindfulness exercises, and maybe the fact that I can focus on every aspect of the film so closely that all else falls away is the reason I keep coming back to it.  I’m being mindful.  I’m not letting any stray thoughts invade my head.  I’m just watching and waiting for the next beat of every scene, leading inexorably to that yellow-stained bloodbath.

Streaming media doesn’t last forever, and each time I find The King, I worry that it will be the last time I ever can find it.  My efforts to download it have so far been unsuccessful, odd considering that it is in the public domain.

When I watch The King, I am once again a child in my bedroom being cared for in the throes of agonizing sickness.  I am once again sitting on the couch with my grandparents in front of the tv, both of them alive and lucid again.  I am once again in the hospital, all alone except for my stuffed animals and the staff trying to keep me alive.  The film reflects in my eyes like the crescent moon in Ingrid Bergman’s gaze.  It sings to me.

I am determined to find a way to obtain The King under any name so that I never have to worry about losing it.  During some of the worst times in my life, it is the only thing that has kept me sane.

[purecantarella]

The Photographer

belated happy lia day! i worked on this with the hwasa fic i'm about gonna post tomorrow but yeah, i hope you all enjoy and happy birthday to lia 😁💗this is short but i think it's nice AHAHHHA disclaimer/s : none, this is just pure fluff 😇

The way you lived was unorthodox to some people but it was just the way you preferred to exist. You were a free-lance photographer and loved the feeling of not being tethered; to any place or any person. Being free to do what you wanted without judgement or consequences.

While you'd grown acquainted with different kinds of people, grew close with a few locals, and took many personalities to your bed, no one had been able to keep you tied down for more than a few days. No one.

After your 22nd birthday, you found yourself exploring the bustling city of Seoul, as per a recommendation by someone you'd met in Japan. It was a beautiful country with rich culture and a new adventure. You thought it'd be a nice stop-over before you continued to the Philippines.

At first, you were lost. Not a lot of people spoke the English and if you didn't know the language a lot of the locals couldn't help or understand you. Instead, you wondered around the busy and loud city. Enjoying the sights and taking still shots of whatever you found interesting. It was nice.

The cold night air began nipping at you as you walked around looking for somewhere to eat. You were slowly becoming frustrated because of the language barrier. As you were about to just call it a night and maybe just find some instant ramen noodles at a nearby convenience store for you to eat at your rented room, a girl, one of the most beautiful you'd seen in a while, walked up to you.

"Are you okay? You seem a tad bit lost." She asked you in English. You sighed in relief and laughed softly. The brunette raised a brow curiously. You waved your hand, "I'm just glad to understand someone. I've never actually spoken a lick of Korean." You said, relief and a bit of comfort washed over you.

You'd found it a bit odd though, that sense of familiarity with this stranger. None of your friends or your hook-ups had made you feel this way. Deciding it was nothing you shook it off. You offered your hand to the girl, "I'm Y/F/N. Nice to meet you Miss...?"

She was rather surprised. While it was a welcomed surprise, she still found it odd that you didn't know her. The brunette gave you her signature smile, taking your extended hand. "Julia, but just call me Lia." You nodded, biting your lower lip excitedly. The warmth of her hand radiated onto your cold one. The touch lingered for a while, your eyes not breaking contact with one another. Her crescent eyes and radiant smile made it hard to turn away. The moment could have lasted forever until you heard a soft cough from behind you.

Lia snapped her head behind her, a hot rush painting her cheeks as she stammered some things in Korean to her friends behind her. You stood behind her, the words they spoke just deflecting off of you. Your eyes trailed down to your hand. How it tingled and sent shocks through your body.

'This is new...' You thought to yourself as your gaze returned to the newly acquainted friend. She seemed to still be in a heated debate with the other girls as you shifted from the back of your foot to the tip of it. Their voices had hushed a little as Lia walked back to you.

A smile had returned to your face before you pointed to the group behind her. "Your friends seem fun." You said awkwardly, a soft laugh following after. She scoffed and rolled her eyes before the faux annoyed expression melted into an adorable little grin. Once again, you felt your heart unexpectedly skipping a beat.

"I should leave you to it and—" You were instantly cut off by her shaking her head profusely and spitting out a fast-paced series of "no's". "It seemed like you didn't know anyone and I wanted to lend a hand." You were taken aback. It wasn't the first time a local had offered this sort of thing in your life. A lot of people were like this girl, friendly and wanted to show the tourist around. But there was just something about this girl.

You let out a soundless laugh while nodding your head. "I'd really like that, maybe not tonight though. I wouldn't want you to stay out too late." You said sheepishly, rubbing the back of your neck. Lia looked up at you before pulling out her phone, staring and scrolling through it intently. "I'd love to but would..." She paused before settling on a day. "...Thursday be good?" You chuckled softly at her hopeful face.

While you knew that your flight was early Tuesday, you nodded confidently. You two exchanged numbers before she'd disappeared with her friends and two tall men. You tried not to raise a brow at the latter though. That night your thoughts were flooded by the gorgeous girl, her pale complexion, moon-shaped eyes, the smile on her face, her overall form. Like all the sights in the world you'd seen were nothing compared to her, to Lia.

You tried to shake off the feelings that began to creep up on you though at the same time you awaited Thursday to arrive anxiously. You two texted between your sightseeing in the city. In all honesty, her silly texts and updates had been the highlight of your trip. You found yourself waiting for her replies to each of the photos you sent her.

On the day you'd set to meet, you thought that you'd had a stronger bond with her. And yes that was a good thing, but it just made you feel even more terrified of this foreign territory. You sat at the park she'd told you about, your leg bouncing as you eyed the scenery. "She's just a girl, Y/n...Calm down..." You muttered to yourself, leaning back into the bench. You continue to gather your thoughts when your suddenly jolted and someone yells, "Boo!"

You jumped and were just about ready to fight the perpetrator. You softened seeing Lia laughing hysterically. "You're adorable, Y/n!" She cooed softly before circling around to wrap her arms around your neck comfortably.

"I hope I didn't keep you waiting." She said as she pulled away enough to see your, now flushing, face. You shook your head, a dopey smile gracing your features. Lia's embrace lingered for a moment. Your heart pounded against your chest. "So miss Lia, where are you taking me?" Your body becoming more and more tense under her touch. She took your hand hers, dragging you to some location in the outskirts of the city.

By the time you'd got there it was around lunch time. You'd learned a few of the important phrases and ordered something. Lia looked at you impressed, even making a point by clapping. The afternoon flew by quickly, she told you all about her being an idol, her intense lifestyle while you shared all of your adventures in different countries and taking stolen and posed photos of her. With every story, you found her more and more intriguing. She was a mystery that you wanted to solve, the polaroid you patiently waited for to dry.

"Come on!" The brunette said suddenly, pulling you up from the grass that you'd been sitting on as you scrolled through your camera's photos. You laughed as you jumped onto your feet, blindly following her. "Choi Lia where are you taking m—Woah..." The orange glow of the sunset painted over the city, the lights of building providing the perfect accent, and greenery in the city was perfectly set.

"Holy crap." You whispered under your breath. Your hands falling from the camera's sides instead weighing over your neck. Lia watched your amazed face before locking her arm in yours. She giggled at the dumbfounded face. A big smile grew on your face. For the first time in years, you're heart felt full.

You took a few steps back, taking shots of the view. Before continuously muttering out profanities and comments on the different aspects and features. Lia watched you get lost in your passion and smiled. She looked out into the scenery. In the few days she knew you, she knew that you'd be one of the people who could appreciate the beauty of simplicity. She turned her head back t the veiw.

"It's beautiful." You mumbled, still in awe. You took a glance at Lia's distracted expression. Your shoulders fell and a fleeting, small smile grew on your face. Lifting the camera back, you took her silhouette against the dimming orange. "Out of all the places I've ever been, this has to be the best." You added, catching her attention. Your E/C eyes glued onto Lia's face, her aura, everything. Her pale cheeks adding an extra glow. For a second, a sparkle in both your eyes could be seen by anyone who passed. When you finally said,

"It would make anyone want to stay, wouldn't you say?"

i thought it was cute HAAHAHAHAH what do you guys think 😅also, probably a hwasa fic tomorrow! i hope this was good for everyone and that you all enjoyed it...even if it was kinda predictable HAHAHA anyway, remember that requests are open and criticism is 1000% accepted and even welcomed. i hope you're all safe and i will see you all very soon 😊💗 taglist: @labrachrosite

[k-comfyspace]

Instinct

Star: Kim Yoohyeon (Dreamcatcher)

Idea: No

A person who liked to hide in the shadows, secrets being buried in the depths. You carried it over from generation to generation but meeting new people, would you still continue to stay in the dark? To lie your way out of the questions that popped up, even if someone gets hurt

Warning/s: mention of blood

You left your apartment wearing your jacket as you went down the elevator before stepping outside into the blazing sun, you walked down the street at the bus stop, waiting for your bus to arrive while you observed your surroundings.

You lived in a fair neighborhood, not much happening. It was a peaceful place, trees lining the streets, it was bright, colorful, and the locals were all in their late adult years so you had no issue with people constantly annoying you all the time.

You went to a good school, funded by your parents of course, who lived just a few cities away. They often visited you too during their off times while you would often go when you had free time but generally you could always go there if you wanted to. In school you got good grades, not the best of the best but it was high enough for you to pass.

Your friends were nice, as you made sure to stay away from the cliche cliques that would be a part of high school, which resulted in a lot of people concluding that you had a good life.

However, not everything is always perfect as it seems.

When you got to school you walked into your class sitting at your usual spot as you turned to your friend who was busy writing her notes, “Isn’t it a bit too early for this?” you asked the blue haired girl, who finished writing the sentence before glancing at you with her eyebrows raised,

“Do you have any other way to pass the time?” she asked, a teasing grin growing on your lips as you spoke.

“How about talk to the brunette you’ve been pining on for weeks?” you suggested with a hint of teasing, as the girl in front of you lowered her head. Her cheeks coating with a sheen of pink before she whined and pushed you in annoyance, “I’m not pining for her,” she muttered to herself but you did easily hear her, a laugh escaping past your lips.

In the corner of your eye you took a glance at the girl at the back, seeing the brunette twist her pen in her hands while conversing with her friends.

Your friend looked at you as you reached for your flask, another laugh pouring from your mouth at the glare she was giving you before taking a sip, causing her to inquire, “Isn't it too early for that?” she said, giving your own question back to you, her eyes wide with surprise and concern while you merely waved a hand at her.

“I didn’t eat breakfast,” you replied, shrugging your shoulders, taking one more sip before placing it back in your bag.

You made sure to wipe your lips as the bell rang, everyone inside the room standing to greet the teacher. She walked in front of four students walking behind her, following closely as the eldest woman stood a little to the side, letting them be the center of attention.

All the students in the class, including you, stared at the four in confusion, it’s been half the semester. Maybe they were exchange students? You thought as the woman smiled before speaking.

“Good morning class, I know it's a little later than normal, but the principal assigned us new students. As you might have heard on the news, there was an accident in Kingsville a few days ago that resulted in the loss of most of their facilities. Unfortunately most of it was deemed unrecoverable. But since our school is the closest it has encouraged many of their former students to continue their studies here, so let’s all listen to them, please introduce yourself, girls.”

They introduced themselves, the class seemed to love their enthusiasm, the bright smiles that they wore and the gratefulness in their tone made it all seem that they were new students introducing themselves on their first day, you listened and observed each one, first being Lee Siyeon who had white hair, sharp eyes, and a sharp jaw.

She spoke confidently and you didn’t know if it was you but she sort of resembles a wolf. The next was Kim Bora, black haired girl who had round eyes. She is the shortest out of the group but the energy she showed makes up for it.

Beside her was Lee Yubin, she had black hair that reached up to her back, her features were soft, her eyes were relaxed, and only gave a small smile as she bowed stepping back for the last one in the group, “Good morning everyone, my name is Kim Yoohyeon, please take care of me,”

Yoohyeon had silver hair, she had round eyes like Bora and when she smiled her eyes disappeared as they turned into crescents almost infecting said smile unto you, noticing as well that she was the tallest one in the group, contrasting to the girl a few feet from her. The group the seats around the room,

“Girls feel free to ask anyone for help, I know you’re a little late so don’t hesitate to ask if you need help,”

Once everyone was settled, the lecture started. The teacher paced it slowly, giving the girls an opportunity to catch on and understand, sometimes answering the question as best as they understood. Soon enough the period was over and you were already heading to the cafeteria for lunch,

Sitting down at your table your other companion was already there, smiling when she saw both of you approach, “Minji unnie,” you greeted her taking the seat beside the older girl and began to converse.

It was usually what you did during your lunch period, staying at your group as you talked about all the random things you could think about, sometimes relating to projects, certain teachers, and sometimes playing small games to pass the time. The three of you didn’t need to eat since you would do it sometime later anyway.

“Minji unnie, Dongie, are you free to come by to the apartment tonight? Mom and dad have been pestering me for weeks to have you two over,”

The two girls laughed but still agreeing, “I could imagine their faces,” Handong commented earning a groan of annoyance and an eye roll from you, though it was directed more jokingly,

“It’s like they’re not expecting me to be there when they come, the first thing I hear when they arrive is, ‘Handong and Minji, are they here?’ I feel replaced,” you complained, further increasing the chuckles coming from the two before a new voice joined in.

“Hi,” you take a glance to the side seeing Yoohyeon and Yubin, both holding a tray of food before the taller girl asked shyly, “Do you mind if we take a seat with you guys, the others are pretty cramped,” she asked, the three of you offering them a kind smile,

“Sure, nice to meet you, Yoohyeon and...Yubin isn’t it?” you asked the quiet girl who answered with a nod as they sat down, “Oh this is Minji unnie, she’s a friend of ours,” you introduced the eldest waving a hand to the two.

While Yoohyeon and Yubin started to eat, Minji started some small talk, just to relieve the awkwardness that was practically radiating off the two girls, only keeping their eyes focused on their food. You turned your head to busy yourself with something, catching a glance at a familiar white haired girl who pointed in your direction., “Do you know them?” turning to the two girls who looked up to see you gesturing to the white haired female who kept gazing at your particular direction.

“Oh, we do, Siyeon unnie!” Yoohyeon waved them over, the said girl talked with her companions seemingly whining based on the way her lips pouted and her eyebrows furrowed.

It took them a minute before three figures stood up, padding to your direction, a smile spread on your face when you noticed another familiar face approaching your table, “Hi,” the white haired introduced herself meeting all of your smiles.

“Siyeon right?” she nodded her head before all of your attention turned to the other two who came with her, you noticed the sharp inhale from your friend, side eyeing her with a small grin.

“This is my friend Bora and--”

“Gahyeon-ssi,” you finished for her, earning a nod from the brunette and the white haired, “She's my younger sister,” Siyeon explained, causing you, Minji, and Handong to look surprised. You were unaware that the brunette had any siblings, but in retrospect, you didn't speak with the quiet girl very frequently since she preferred to keep facts to herself.

You motioned for them to take a seat, observing how Handong's cheeks flushed when the brunette sat near her. You leaned back, a bright smile on your face, as you watched Handong becoming increasingly uncomfortable.

The discussion gradually developed over your time in the cafeteria, the uneasy air dispersing, as each one became a little comfortable with each other,

“Do you people not eat?” Yoohyeon inquired abruptly, observing how everyone else had their own trays while you three were conversing with them, “We like to skip lunch and have dinner later,” you answered, smiling again, before Minji continued the previous topic, essentially forcing them out of the topic.

The majority of the girls had become closer to your party by the end of the day, chatting often during breaks and exchanging laughs as you walked through the halls. “We'll see you tomorrow!” you grinned at their group as you and Handong waited for Minji to return.

“Would you two mind heading there first?” Minji inquired, typing on her phone before adding, "I have some stuff to complete, but I promise to make it before your parents arrive," you nodded and waved goodbye as you and Handong walked to the bus station for your bus.

Arriving at home Handong made herself at home, having been inside your apartment a multitude of times as you went to your room to get an extra pair for your friend to change in, when you entered the living room you threw your friend sweatpants and a hoodie getting your flask from your backpack and finishing the rest that it contained.

You licked your lips clean and hopped onto the couch taking Handong’s place as she entered your room to change.

After she left your room dressed more comfortably you turned on the TV, passing by the time and watching whatever was on while you waited for your guests.

--

You didn’t notice it but the show had been playing for a few hours, fully capturing both of your attention since you didn’t notice the sudden shift in the temperature, the mist that appeared in your hall, and you weren’t going to pay attention until you heard the footsteps in the hallway.

Turning your head, a smile appeared on your face when two figures emerged. Handong also turned her head, her own smile gracing her face, seeing the two older people walk in with grins.

“Auntie, uncle,” Handong greeted, but suddenly got pulled forward as your parents gave her a warm hug and while Handong was receiving a pat on the back, you stood there at the side a scowl replacing your smile as you took in the scene in front of you,

“Hello, excuse me!”

The three pulled apart seeing your expression, arms crossed against your chest while you pouted, “Oh, hi dear,” you scoffed hearing your mother’s greeting, the older woman rolled her eyes and moved to approach you but in the hallway mist appeared again as the sound of your other friend rang in your ears,

“Sorry I’m late!” Almost like magic, your mother’s attention moved to the purple haired girl.

“Minji!” Your jaws dropped as your parents rushed to hug the older girl, causing Handong to laugh beside you, “My parents don't really care for me,” you muttered, your voice reaching out to your parents as they pulled away and turned to you,

“Oh, don't be such a whine, could you get us some drinks please, we're parched,” shaking your head, you turned to go to the kitchen, not before turning with your hands folded to your parents.

“Is there anything else you’d like, sir, madam?”

“No, no, that'll do it,” the four of them grinned when they saw you grumble at the comeback. You took a package from your fridge, slit it open, and poured the liquid into the cups after getting the glasses out of the cupboards. As the red liquid splashed inside, you stood there watching. Staring at the liquid, you contemplated your life.

It might seem that your life was flawless, that you had everything you ever desired, that you were living the greatest life the universe had to give, but they were unaware of the secrets that had slipped inside, the curse that had shaped your life and that of your generation.

Your senses are heightened, your pulse is still, your skin is colder than stone, you have the strength of a thousand men, and you have a hunger for blood.

A devil who roamed the world, hiding among the humans and living in the darkness, or, as it is more often called in modern days, a vampire. It has been passed down from the family for thousands of years, all the way back to the time when the great Count ruled.

You were fortunate to have existed in a period where vampires were free to pursue their own lives, evolving to adapt to the environment we live in today rather than being the bloodsucking predators that everyone was terrified of.

Taking the glass to the living room you gave your parents their glasses, having them thank you as you joined in on their conversation.

--

For the following weeks of school, the eight of you have been almost inseparable, already forming your own group in the cafeteria actually calling them your friend you never thought that in the one hundred and sixteen years you’ve been living.

You, as well as Handong and Minji never thought that you would be attached to them since you tried to not get closer to them, not because you hated them but because you could put them in danger.

You were addicted to blood, though it’s been years since you’ve had some, only bringing around sheep’s blood in your bottles. It was the food that you would intake, either it be in the middle of class or during your sports activities, to keep you away from the urge and to give you strength when you needed it.

Because any vampire wouldn’t be able to eat human food unless they wanted to end themselves.

You never wanted to endanger people, it was the last thing that you would want, but it was already too late into the friendship when you realized that one of them was extremely clumsy.

It became apparent when the girl was hanging out more with you, where you would constantly be by her side to react when she would accidentally trip or slip on basically nothing but herself. You were deemed Yoohyeon’s bodyguard by the girls and you weren’t going to deny it.

Because every twenty minutes she seemed to need help and you would be around the corner to help. There are times where it came dangerously close, when Yoohyeon accidentally tripped on the stairs, hitting her knees where she got cut.

Unfortunately for you, the scent of blood was too strong, you could feel your fangs coming out, breathing heavily but thankfully Handong already had her breakfast. She reacted quickly and grabbed your hand, speeding past everybody in the hallway and locked both of you in the janitor’s closet.

Quickly taking your bottle she opened it, waving the scent in your direction as the glowing red eyes faced her. With your instincts taking over you snatched the bottle taking what you needed as you slowly calmed down.

When the glow in your eyes disappeared and your breathing became relaxed you got back into your senses and shook your head, wiping the blood off your lips as you glanced at your friend.

“T-thank you,”

When you got back into the hallway you could see in the end that Yoohyeon was being helped by Minji, the other girls looking at the puppy who only smiled and laughed at her accident.

The older girl sensed you and glanced in your direction, seeing the worried look on your face before she nodded with an assuring smile.

After that day you made sure to always take your food before leaving your apartment, either on the bus or before you entered the school, not wanting to put yourself into that situation again.

“Y/n!” The weight on your back made you move slightly forwards, your hands automatically going behind you to support whoever it was on your back.

Turning your head you’re met with a familiar ball of silver hair, a smile forming on your lips as you carried the girl with you while you walked toward the school, “Isn’t it too early for this Yooh,” you inquired, yet still holding the girl all the way to your class.

“Aren’t you getting tired?” she asked you after a minute and you shook your head, even teasing her as you walked with a slight skip in your steps. Resting her head on your shoulder Yoohyeon looked at you, observing your side profile as you walked.

It’s only been a month since Yoohyeon met you and she didn’t realize it but even just a few weeks of being together you were already so close to her heart than anyone else that she’s known. It might be just simple puppy love because you’ve been super nice to them since the beginning, but she was definitely falling fast.

Closing her eyes, Yoohyeon snuggled her head into the crook of your neck, releasing a sigh when she felt you move your head to let her nuzzle further.

You stifled a laugh, stopping abruptly and letting her down, as the puppy became confused.

“Why did you let me down?” she asked with a pout, making you furrow your brows at the strange feeling you had in your stomach until you replaced it with a smile, “I was getting tired,” You took a couple of steps back, an evil smile creeping over your lips, before adding,

"And you're growing heavier." You watched her mouth drop before turning and running, hearing Yoohyeon call your name, loud steps trailing behind you. Your laugh echoed through the corridors, stopping a little to enable the tall girl to pursue you.

When you ran into your class, the girls looked at you strangely as they saw you pant and look at the door with a grin on your lips. When the taller girl didn't follow, the grin transformed into a pout, but when you walked to the entrance, you peered around and a slight smile appeared on your face as you noticed Yoohyeon seated on the floor.

Yoohyeon dusted her knees before a hand was extended to her, she glanced up and met your gentle eyes, you both paused for a moment until she matched your smile and took your hand in hers. What she did next, though, shocked not only you but also your friends who peered through the frame.

Yoohyeon let herself be swept up by the momentum, enabling herself to get near enough to plant a kiss on your cheek.

“Thanks,” she said as she walked to the classroom, leaving you standing idly, frozen. You put your hand to your cheek, the burning feeling she left on your skin felt like the sun, but it was a pleasant burn.

Since you actually felt warmer, for the first time in years.

--

Having this kind of friendship with Yoohyeon was a great deal of fun and Yoohyeon added a whole different element to your life by enabling you to enjoy the benefits of making new friends and the unexpected hangouts that all of you would have. But you knew that one day, a few moments might go wrong, and everything you have will disappear in an instant.

Which was precisely what occurred the very next day.

You dressed up then went to the kitchen to get your flask, though when you checked the fridge you didn't see your bottle, you were puzzled. Looking around, you saw it on your counter and picked it up, just to discover it was empty.

At first, you didn't care and simply opened the other part of your fridge to grab some more. However, you swore under your breath when you opened it but saw nothing.

You had forgotten that you were supposed to get some yesterday, you stood there for a while and after some consideration, you decided to ask Handong instead. Making the mistake of leaving your apartment, thinking you'd get some food from the other girl.

As you got to school, you were agitated, every move you took was worrying, causing you to look around, everything seemed to be moving faster. You inhaled sharply when you reached your room and saw that Handong wasn't around, so you rushed outside to find Minji's room, but your luck seemed to be against you when the tall puppy met your gaze,

“Y/n!” You forced a smile at the younger girl, darting your gaze around the hall in the hopes of catching a glimpse of Handong.

But, as your friend was nowhere to be found, Yoohyeon pulled you back into the room as you tried to remain calm, doing breathing exercises in your head to calm your nerves, hoping that Handong would soon walk through the door.

When your friend finally arrived, the bell had already rung, and you stood by the side, fists clenched and twitching uncontrollably, as everyone is ready to welcome the teacher.

You couldn't talk with your friend because you weren't sure whether you could contain the growl in your voice, but you made it until lunchtime when your burden eased a little when you stood up to talk to your friend.

Handong looked at you when she noticed you fidgeting a lot, glancing at your form, her eyes filled with worry when she saw how uncomfortable you looked, your arms were shaking and your eye was twitching, “What's wrong?” she questioned, holding you by the shoulders to calm you down,

“Food,” she heard the slight rasp in your voice, her worry growing as she glanced at her bottle, knowing she already used it this morning.

The Chinese woman grabbed your wrist and rushed out of the room, heading for Minji's class, where you caught the purple haired girl as she exited the room, "Unnie!"

When Minji turned her head in the direction of her call, she saw Handong bringing you along with her, and she became concerned when she didn't see the familiar smile on your features.

“What's wrong with Y/n?” she inquired, noting how your hands seemed to shake and your eyes remained closed as you inhaled deeply. You didn't open because you didn't want your eyes to show red, so you waited for one of them to pull you instead.

As a result, when you feel an arm around your wrist, you let it pull you away. More of the weight dissipates when you hear less and less voices around you.

However, you felt dread in your being when you heard a different voice, “Y/n?” When Yoohyeon stood in front of you with a smile, your eyes popped open and your whole body froze. Why was she here? How did she bring you here? What happened to Handong and Minji?

Your senses were sensitive as you felt all the controls wither away, and the fears in your mind began to build along with your breathing. Yoohyeon began to speak about something but you couldn't hear her.

You felt your self control break as all the restraints faded away. Yoohyeon realized you'd been silent for a while before becoming concerned when your body began to shake as you groaned to yourself while squeezing your fists.

“Y—”

“Run,”

She heard you mutter silently, but the noise was muted in her ears, puzzled by your remark still staying as she stood in silence.

“What are you saying, Y/n, do you need anything—”

“Run, Yoohyeon!” You screamed, but it was too late.

As Yoohyeon approached, a curtain of red engulfed your view. When you raised your head, Yoohyeon’s eyes grew big when she saw your eyes, changed into dark red, mouth open as your fangs started to grow. She stepped back, repeatedly calling out for your name but you were too deep into the hunger that you didn’t hear anything, slowly you approached Yoohyeon as she kept backing up until she hit the wall.

She can’t help but be afraid as she saw your form, cowering in the corner before feeling you grip her wrist. She tried to fight you off but you were too strong. It wasn’t a second later when she felt pain shoot up her arm, an ear piercing scream echoing in the sky.

Handong and Minji turned when they heard the scream, turning to each other and cursing when they didn’t see you. As quickly as they could they used their speed to go towards the sounds of the scream, jumping up to the roof where they froze when they saw you, biting Yoohyeon’s arm as the girl yelled in agonizing pain.

Minji responded instantly, grabbing your arm and hurling you against a nearby wall, Yoohyeon's eyes falling as she dozed off. You are still red-eyed, irritated that you'd been disrupted.

You rose to your feet before being struck by a sudden pain in the back of the head, your vision blurring as you collapsed, Handong standing behind you, her face expressionless.

--

When you opened your eyes, you groaned as you felt your head hurting. Sitting up you recognized the surroundings, the red walls, and the white ceiling, you were inside your room. But how?

The last thing that you remembered was going to school, hungry and tired before Handong pulled you away to Minji then--

Your eyes went wide as you stood, rushing outside your room and met Minji’s eyes down the hall. The older one saw you and opened her mouth to speak but she didn’t get the first word out when you bolted from your place, rushing past her, using your mist to get inside the room.

You clutched her cloth-wrapped wrist, immediately sensing the weight of the earth on your shoulders as you saw the younger girl lying on the bed. Walking to the side of the bed you held her wrist that was wrapped with some cloth, suddenly feeling the whole world on your chest as you watched the younger girl lay on the bed.

Your guilt is tearing at you, for the way she lay there helpless was completely your fault. Kneeling beside her, you nuzzled your face against her palm, gripping her hand against her cheek, a sliver of relief rising when you felt her pulse on your cheek.

Minji and Handong hurried in, their eyes softening as they took in the scene in front of them. Slowly walking and sitting alongside you, their palms on your back appeared to intensify the discomfort you were experiencing, making you feel even worse for what you did before you left the room a few minutes later.

Silently closing it as you padded to the living room. Your mind raced at a million miles per hour.

The idea that you had harmed someone close to you, hurt you so much that you feel as though you were dying. Because hurting someone you cared for was something you didn't want to do.

--

You stood in the living room with Minji and Handong for a moment, silent because they were unable to disturb the peace, but it didn't last long as a shrill scream echoed across the flat. You three used your abilities to accelerate.

As you arrived at the foot of the bed where Yoohyeon was tossing and twisting in bed a frown on her lips.

You moved to wake her up, but Minji resisted, shaking her head and approaching the younger girl instead.

When Minji woke her up, you were concerned about how the puppy might respond. Yoohyeon backed up against the bed and started weeping as she bolted up and met your eyes.

Listening to Yoohyeon wail and struggle, you closed your eyes, understanding that the pain you were feeling could never be compared to anything else. You searched for the right opportunity to look her in the eyes.

When you did, your eyes went bright red as you sifted through her memory, deleting the details you didn't want her to remember until she fell back against the bed, her breathing returning to normal. Before you took Minji's place beside the bed, you let out a deep sigh.

You stepped carefully to pick her up, adjusting her position in your arms to make her more comfortable before mist engulfed you, causing your two companions to stare at you sadly before you vanished.

After taking the image from Yoohyeon's head you got to her room and tucked her in, lay her flat on the bed. When you left with a heavy burden, you observed her for a few minutes more before kissing her on the forehead.

When you returned to your flat, you stepped outside of the room you were in and into your own room, looking at the floor because you didn't have the courage to glance at your friends. Knowing that your friends couldn't do much about the turmoil and frustration you were experiencing before you closed the door quietly.

For the next few days, you didn’t leave your room, only laying in your bed, shutting everybody out, and staying in your safe space.

Handong and Minji tried to get inside using their powers but you would only turn around to face the wall ignoring them until they left with a sigh, leaving the food they prepared for you.

It was so bad that your parents even came by to talk to you but like your friends they didn’t get a response either.

Meanwhile, the rest of the girls grew confused at your absence. The following days were spent without you making them seem dull, especially one particular girl who grew sadder each day that she didn’t get to see you.

After you took her memories away, Yoohyeon only remembered the prior events before that, so she believed Handong when she explained that you were sick.

Bringing up the day where you came to school rather quiet and tired. But it’s already been a week and you weren’t healthy yet?

--

The knock on your door didn’t affect you in the slightest, waiting until you saw the glint of the mist in the corner of your eye before closing your eyes. Your mother sighed as she walked toward you on the bed, taking a seat beside you she sifted her hands through your hair until it rested on your back,

“Y/n, it’s been a week, don’t you think it’s time to go outside?” she questioned, not earning a response so she sighed instead, knowing you were listening but you still pretended not to.

“It's not your fault Y/n, what happened was something you couldn't control,” she said with a puff of her breath.

" Every single one of us has done something similar before, some worse than others, it's a normal impulse, dear. Nobody could have prevented it, what matters today is what we do now, why worry about the past if you're no longer living there. You, not the past or the future, decide the present, so please don't hold yourself responsible for something you can't control.”

Before leaving, your mother gave you one more look as the temperature began to drop. You are left in silence to reflect on her words. Sitting up against the bed, you intertwined your fingers together as you pondered the situation, your gaze fixed on your wardrobe, a small flicker surging through your eyes.

--

Observing them from across the road, you saw how they interacted as they walked to the entrance, laughing and conversing.

After a week of silence, you wanted to go outside your space to see how your friends were. As a result, you're perched on a tree branch across the street, seeing what's going on.

When you noticed Yoohyeon's warm smiles, you smiled for the first time in days, capturing a little of their talk through your hearing, "I told you I might try but I didn't guarantee I would succeed,"

As you listened intently until they began their own discussions, a chuckle escaped your mouth, but your eyes and ears were only attracted to one girl as she spoke.

The softness of her voice reignited the strange sensation in your stomach, and when you started to listen, the excitement on your face quickly changed to fear as you heard something down the street.

People shouting could be heard until an engine roared from over the road, the vehicle speeding down the hill. Looking back at the girls, you were grateful that Minji and Handong had been able to notice and drag them back, interrupting their fun and unknowingly leaving one person behind as they continued to chuckle.

The truck was moving closer and closer, Minji and Handong had only just noticed that one girl was absent before turning around and yelling for her.

When Yoohyeon saw the truck, she opened her eyes and her face changed from joy to surprise. Everything moved slowly as you dashed from your hiding spot, appearing in front of Yoohyeon with your mist and covering her with your body.

Closing your eyes and seeing yourself in a different location than the one you're in right now.

Which happened to be your bedroom when you landed on the floor, rolling while cradling and covering Yoohyeon's head before crashing into the side of your bed with a groan.

You stepped back to take a brief glance at the woman, who had shock etched all over her face, darting her eyes all over the room before they found yours.

You immediately gathered her up and sat her on your bed, checking to see if she was all right before turning and disappearing in front of her.

The girls glanced at the truck, eyes streaming with tears as they called for their friend.

When you emerged in front of the girls they were shocked at your presence, and had their own confused expressions on their faces when you held each of their hands and looked at your friends, who were also stunned at your arrival, you gestured your gaze towards the school where a few students were watching before both of them understood.

They turned around, their eyes reddening, and mist engulfed the four of you as you returned to your bedroom, where Yoohyeon seemed startled as you arrived, but they didn't bother to question as they huddled together.

They wrapped their arms around each other and checked to make sure no one was hurt. You stood by the corner and let them have their moment before Minji and Handong arrived in the same manner as you, surprising the girls and making them look at you three with wide eyes.

“We'll explain, please listen to us,” you said when they were about to ask questions. Taking a deep breath, you began describing what they needed to know.

You could erase their memories, but it might just add to the problem, having to keep hiding and avoiding the one event that was bound to happen sooner or later wouldn't help the situation.

Then you told them slowly, describing who you were and where you came from as you paused for a couple breaths to let it settle in. They glanced at the three of you at the conclusion of your explanation, "Y-you won't harm us?"

“We never have and we never would do it on purpose,” Minji replied to Gahyeon, for you, relieved that they didn't scream, yell, or do something unnecessary.

“Could you please give us a moment?” you whispered, your gaze fixed on the puppy, who gave no hint of how she was feeling when she looked at you.

Handong and Minji motioned the three to the entrance, but they were afraid to leave Yoohyeon with you at first, however, after assuring her that she would be fine, you were left alone in the room with the silent puppy.

You knelt down, lowering your head as you took a few steps closer to the girl, halting and offering her the room she needed.

“Is it really true?” You nodded while the other girl didn't believe everything she’s seen, almost wanting to see everything as a huge joke that you were planning but when you suddenly raised your head and met your bright red eyes Yoohyeon gasped when you returned the memories that you had previously removed.

You closed your eyes, a tear running down your cheek as you braced yourself for what was about to happen.

Yoohyeon looked at your form, her jaw clenched as she struggled not to cry, her gaze moving to her own wrist as if she were about to experience the agony again.

She didn't know what to do after hearing anything and getting her memory back, and she couldn't ignore the terror she felt as she recalled your blood red eyes and the sharp fangs you showed her.

“I didn't want to harm you, I was starving, and you were the nearest source. I promise I didn't mean to do that, and I'd do anything to take that away from you, to make you forget about it, but it wouldn't make me the ideal role model. I'd like to show you the true me, the one that doesn't have something to hide. I didn't want our friendship to be like that, where one party hides in the dark for the other to not see,” you said, fearful.

“Was this why you didn't go to school?” she asked in a whisper, reaching your ears, you nodded before Yoohyeon remained silent for a moment until she had the nerve to slowly approach you.

She came up to your form, sitting in front of you and cupping your cheeks, a move that caught you off guard.

Yoohyeon brushed your tears away with the pads of her fingertips, eventually realizing that you had an explanation for every question she posed about the three of you. She noticed how your face matched hers, and the fear and sadness in your eyes caused her to ache

She suddenly pulled you closer and closed the space between you after hearing you mutter silent apologies several times. You didn't know how to explain the way your lips molded together and the sweetness of it when you first kissed them.

It made you feel energetic like you were drinking, which gave you the strength to curl your arms around her waist and unconsciously draw the girl closer.

“I don't care what you did, Y/n, you said it yourself, it was unavoidable,” the girl said a few minutes later, holding her hand on your face and taking deep breaths. You didn't want to harm me, and I hope you still don't,” she said, getting a few nods in return

“Then as long as you don't want to purposefully harm me, I have no issues with who you are, you're always the Y/n we know. It's just bringing a little bit of intrigue and curiosity now that you've told us, the past is the past,”

A tiny grin appeared on your face as you remembered your mother's words, pulling the taller girl into a hug.

As you tucked your head in the crook of her neck, you relished being inside her embrace, and the sudden warm sensation that you never thought you'd experience again returned, spreading across your skin.

Though you're sure there are a number of things that will complicate going down this road you choose, you were sure both of you will figure it out, and for now, Yoohyeon embracing you was enough to relieve your worries and push them aside.

“Together, we'll work this out.”

[skellebonez]

I hear people talking about Sandy basically being a human shield and it gave me an idea with #79 for Silktea Angst. Huntsman notices some scars on Sandy's back and when he tells Huntsy he got them while protecting his friends it leads the spider demon to think, less then highly of team MK. (not that he thought highly of them to begin with) - Pixel Anon

Well I can’t argue with that! After all... I was hoping to expedite a chapter two of a certain fic I started...

How did you get that scar?

Huntsman went over his clothes one last time before returning back to the spider lair, making absolutely sure there was no left over cat hair clinging to his coat or pants. No one could know where he just was. No one could know anything about the conversation he and Sandy has just shared. No one could find out about...

A shudder wove its way up his back, born of concern and fear of being discovered. He couldn’t believe he told Sandy that much.

But he did. He hadn't told the other man every single thing, but if anyone knew he'd certainly have hell to pay. Something about Sandy, the warmth and openness he held despite what Huntsman had done, just drew all of it out of him. Maybe it was the fact that the warmth he exuded was such a stark contrast to the coldness added to his home since the Lady Bone Demon arrived.

He couldn't even blame it on the idea that the tea was secretly a truth serum. He'd told everything before he'd even taken that first sip.

And then that smile...

A thump resounded through his chest.

... oh.

"... oh no," Huntsman whispered to himself as he snuck back into his home, careful not to alert anyone to his presence and careful not to let his internal revelation stumble him as he felt that same odd thump in his chest as before. The one from when the other smiled at him, the second smile that was far softer than the ones he was greeted with before.

It was at that moment Huntsman knew... he may have messed up.

~

"You're back sooner than I expected," Sandy said nonchalantly as he opened his door at 5 past midnight the next evening. He gave him the other kind of smile, the one that was too wide and open for his liking, and welcomed him inside without question.

Huntsman hadn't needed to sneak out this time at least. He'd had time to plan, make sure that he covered his tracks properly like a good hunter did when going after their prey, and to come up with a reasonable explanation for his absence in the night. Given what they were planning behind the Lady Bone Demon's back that was easy enough.

While Syntax would be a better lead for finding certain things they need they needed him back in the lair to plan and build. Huntsman, on the other hand, could sneak and find and bring things back much easier than his more technologically impressed counterpart. And while he may have lied about where exactly he was going to hopefully get what he needed, Sandy...

He knew Sandy wasn't just muscles and tea, even if he had mocked him for it before. The boat he lived on was proof enough of that.

"I want to tell you more," he started slowly, sitting down on the couch and watching as the calico cat that had approached him last time stood and sat on the arm across from him. "And... Ask for your assistance."

Sandy paused what he was doing, tea cups only left partly filled for a moment before he continued as. "With what?"

"My Queen has a plan," Huntsman began, and this time he didn't hold anything back.

He told Sandy about what really happened at the festival. How he'd seen her true face after stealing the demon revealing mirror. How MK had snuck into their lair and had fought Spider Queen in shrunken form (he did not miss the shock and confusion and then a sad realization on Sandy's face at this revelation, but shouldn't he have known that already? it wasn't that long before he'd gone to retrieve the flower in the first place). How they had a plan, something that may just be enough to halt her provided they were able to complete it. How he and his two counterparts had looked at their plans and realized they may not have enough time on their own.

How Sandy's offer was probably one of the only things he could think of that could help them at this point. When they were quickly running out of time.

Sandy had brought him some tea half way through his explanation and said nothing the entire time. Just kept watching him and nodding his head to show he was listening.

"And now you know exactly the depths of the trouble we're in," Huntsman finished gravely. He held his empty cup in his hands, glowering down at the loose leaves in the bottom.

"I'm gonna be honest with you," Sandy started, swirling his own cup with a far off look on his face. "I didn't... I didn't know most of this. MK never told us about going into the sewers."

"What?" Huntsman asked incredulously, looking at the other in disbelief. "You can't be serious."

"I am!" Sandy insisted, face firm and worried. "Until last night I didn't even know it was the Lady Bone Demon you were working for! He hasn't told us any of this, just that someone was working with the Spider Queen and that's it. This explains his reaction to the game though..." He trailed off, looking deeper into his cup as if the tea would spill all of the secrets he needed to know.

"I thought heroes were supposed to be more honest than that." Huntsman scowled, jolting a bit as the calico climbed into his lap. At least this time he didn't have to worry about removing every cat hair, stray cats were common in the city and it wouldn't be odd for him to encounter one while out, though he would certainly still try.

"MK's a good kid," Sandy said softly, standing with a sigh and rubbing the back of his neck. "But... I think he thinks he has to deal with this on his own. To prove something."

"That's stupid."

This time Sandy leveled him with a glower, rough and harsh and not unlike the one he was met with during their fight. It made him freeze, a cold shudder running through him at the memory of the scenery around them he'd watched whiz past him as he ran.

The mountain that was more crescent moon hole than mountain now.

But that glower only lasted a moment, Sandy sighing and rubbing his face. He looked... tired. More tired than just from staying up late... had he slept after their last encounter?

"MK's not stupid," he defended as he sat back down. "But I can't deny that his choice to not tell us anything, no matter the reason, is foolish at best and dangerous at worst. I need to talk to him."

"Will he believe you figured all this out on your own?" Huntsman raised an eyebrow. The calico's claws dug into his legs as she, he was certain the cat was a she now, made herself comfortable.

"No. But I don't have to tell him you told me now if you want these two visits to remain a secret. I'll tell him you said something when I got the flower that was making me worry and that I put the pieces together over the last few days."

This made Huntsman pause himself, looking at Sandy with a narrowed gaze. "That's... shockingly generous of you."

"I know what wanting privacy feels like," Sandy said easily and something akin to a cold knife stuck itself in Huntsman's stomach as he remembered their fight once again. "...Thank you."

Again, this surprised Huntsman (there was a lot of that about this night it seemed). "For... what?"

"Telling me all this," Sandy said with a gesture of his arm and that damn smile. "You didn't have to. But you trusted me enough to do that anyway."

Trust... did Huntsman trust Sandy? Or was his just concerned enough for his Queen and his own life to push any distrust aside for the sake of their survival? Or was he just lonely with only a distracted queen, his old companion, and the newest addition who he already didn't see eye to eye with as regular company that didn't show frustration at his presence? So lonely that someone smiling at him so genuinely made his heart (yes, he was certain that was his heart now) thump harder than he ever remembered it doing in his life.

"... don't mention it," it what he chose to reply with instead of confronting any of those thoughts head on. Especially that last one.

He could unpack that later. Or never. Preferably never, but something told him that wasn't going to happen.

"Well!" Sandy suddenly announced, standing up and clapping his hands dramatically with that too wide smile back on his face. "I'm hungry! And I have just the perfect snack for this next batch of tea!"

Before Huntsman could argue that he wasn't hungry himself Sandy had turned around and was off into his kitchen, the sudden movement making the calico cat startle and jump off Huntsman's lap.

And then the spider demon was alone.

The temptation to take what he needed from the boat, wherever it may be hidden, and leave was strong. So strong. But he knew that if he did that the rest of his plan would be for nothing. He knew they needed more time and that wasn't something they could buy. Not anymore, not when the Lady Bone Demon had so much of what she needed already. But more help could make up for that time... and as much as he knew that his Queen would be furious with him for going behind her back, for seeking help from one of the Monkie Kid's friends of all people, he cared more about them living than her wrath at this moment.

Maybe he would have felt different if he was faced with that wrath head on, but he wasn't.

So instead, for whatever reason he told himself that wasn't just "sheer curiosity", he stood and followed the other man part way into the kitchen as quietly as he could manage and watch. And then he noticed something he'd seen before.

He couldn’t help but stare. He had noticed them during their first encounter on his boat, but hadn’t paid attention, really. Too focused on the conversation at hand and worrying about how this could all go horribly wrong. But now... now he couldn’t help but stare at Sandy’s back, wide and vast and muscled and scarred. Little nicks and wide chasms of slices and cuts and stabs littered his spine and shoulders, each of varying levels of age and healing. So much more than on his chest.

Sandy said he didn’t fight unless he had to, so... Huntsman had to ask.

"How did you get that scar?"

"Which one?" Sandy countered almost immediately, and Huntsman realized he may have been more aware of his surroundings when in his own home than Huntsman had given his credit for.

"Any of them. All of them. Take your pick."

He didn't look away from his back. Sandy didn't turn to face him.

"Most of them are old," Sandy started, the scars moving as his shoulders moved to prepare whatever it was he was making. "Pretty obvious some of them are recent. I told you I don't like to fight, but my friends..."

Sandy trailed off, most likely looking for the right words to explain. But Huntsman realized the implication long before he had the chance.

"Don't tell me you've been making yourself a meat shield for your friends," he said with a scowl. The idea of him doing that for people who were supposed to be heroes... for some reason he didn't like that at all.

"I wouldn't put it that way," Sandy countered, turning around with a plate of some kind of cup up sweet. "They don't really like it, but if my friends are in danger I want to protect them. Sometimes I forget I'm not invincible like other people."

"Wow, sounds like bad decisions are just a theme for us," Huntsman said under his breathe with a scowl, regretting saying that the second it left his mouth.

Sandy hadn't seemed to have heard him though, or if he did he made no indication that he had been offended by the statement. Which... seemed to be a pattern with the other. He didn't seem to get offended by much unless you were hurting his friends directly.

... Huntsman realized he had no idea what that felt like on either end.

But it struck him as odd, and foolish. His friends should be able to take care of themselves. He'd seen even the human scholar fight during the festival and in the celestial realm, he wasn't nearly as strong as everyone else but he put up a decent defense. For Sandy to jump in front of them to take a blow, and for them to allow him to do that...

He scowled even deeper than before. Had they no pride? No shame in letting someone else take the hits for them like that? Foolish indeed!

"You gonna sit back down?" Sandy asked after a moment, shocking Huntsman from his thoughts, gesturing to the couch. "You still haven't told me what you need."

"You sure you trust me enough to give it to me?" Huntsman asked as he sat back down, reaching to push away the plate of sweets from his side of the table. He had no interest in food at the moment.

He didn't get to do that, Sandy's hand reaching out and grabbing his wrist instead.

His hand was warm and firm and calloused from years of whatever it was he had done before and from working on tech. His fingers slipped under the cuff of his coat slightly and Huntsman could have sworn that the other man could feel how fast his heart had begun to beat in response.

"I told you before," Sandy started, pushing his hand back away from the plate. It was that Huntsman realized he had slipped something into his hand. "I don't trust you, not yet. But I offered you that second chance."

"Y-yeah," Huntsman stammered out as he wrist was let go of. He yanked it back, looking down at what was in his hand. Another tea bag and a different sweet. Store bought and wrapped. A simple fruit flavored hard candy, nothing more. But given to him all the same. Something he could choose to eat when he wanted... or not at all. Maybe that meant something, maybe it didn't.

The warmth that seemed to linger on his wrist felt like it did though.

"Now, what do you need? I can't guarantee I have it, but I'll do my best to help."

Huntsman's scowl remained on his face as he explained what materials they needed and what they were hoping to find to expedite a few certain old creations in their building of what they needed.

His scowl remained as Sandy handed him everything he needed, bidding him a safe return to his home with a yawn when he made his leave.

It remained as he rushed back to the lair, back to his Queen, to present the treasure trove they needed to get everything back on track. As Syntax looked at him in suspicion. As he returned to his own quarters holding his wrist, wanting to feel the same warmth around it that was now missing again. As he snuck a cup of hot water into his room and he dipped the tea bag into it and waited.

It only dissipated as he opened the hard candy, popping it into his mouth as he took a sip of the new tea.

The natural sweetness of the new tea tea mixed with the mouth punching sourness of the hard candy.

Huntsman couldn't help but smile, just a bit, as the flavors mingled in a way he knew many people would find unappealing. But he loved it. Sour and hard mixed with sweet and smooth.

The big guy was more insightful than he thought.

[dokidokey]

when you drag sakusa out to a very early morning / very late night meteor shower watching, he thinks how it would end up if he confessed the feelings he’s been harboring for a long time now.

pairings: sakusa kiyoomi x reader

prompt: “you woke me up at 3 am for this?”

genre: fluff

warnings: platonic relationship, pining

word count: 1,700

notes: my 2nd hqhq server collab yay! THIS is the masterlist consisting of other writers who participated, check it out!

Apart from Sakusa’s love for cleaning products, especially green apple-flavored sanitizers, he also loves his sleep. He cherishes it as much as he does his hand sanitizers. So when he hears his phone ring in the middle of the night, he’s already thinking about how he’s going to make you pay for disturbing his sleep.

You aren’t calling though. It’s an alarm he knows he never set up. 2:50 AM glares right back at him from his phone screen, and much to his dismay, he hears his bedroom door open and in walks you, in all your grinning glory.

“Hi!” You greet him, giving a little wave of your hand before you tuck it back behind you. “So. . . you’re awake.”

“You think?”

A sheepish smile graces your face as you rock back and forth on your heels. Sakusa trusts you enough to let you inside his room, being that you’re his roommate and, dare he say it, best friend. He takes it as an achievement that his cleanliness rubbed off on you. Whenever Bokuto or anyone from his team would come over, he didn’t have to stress himself over how much of their germs would get transferred inside his  things and yours because you do it for him. Sometimes he thinks you’re more extreme than he ever was.

“I told you I was going to wake you up but you didn’t say anything? So I just set up an alarm for you, just in case,” you shrug nonchalantly. Then you add, “besides, I don’t do this often so don’t give me that look.”

“What look?” he asks, pushing his comforter off him and sliding on his slippers.

“That look!” You accuse, pointing a finger at his face. You follow Sakusa as he makes his way to his bathroom, leaning on the doorway and watching him as he opens the faucet. “Like you’re so bored.”

Kiyoomi meets your gaze on your reflection in the mirror. “Maybe I am.”

You groan, crossing your arms and frowning at him. Sakusa ducks his head down as he gathers a handful of water on his palms and splashes it onto his face. Honestly speaking, he really doesn’t mind that you woke him up at this hour. Bokuto has long bled his ears off about his obvious crush on you and it came off as a surprise to Sakusa that it was Bokuto that noticed first. The rest of MSBY knew it some time after when they overheard Bo blackmailing him to attend one of their parties.

The only person that still doesn’t know is you.

And he prefers it this way. This way, where he doesn’t have to tiptoe around you. You’ve been friends for a long, long time now and Kiyoomi knows you like the back of his hand. He can tell anyone that asks that he knows how you use your handkerchiefs in a color-coordinated way － starting from red to black, like a rainbow of some sorts. Kiyoomi knows that you wake up at 6:15 in the morning. That is after you snooze your other alarms that have a 5-minute interval.

He’s fine like this, with you frowning at him from the doorway of his bathroom at this ungodly hour in the morning rather than getting rejected. Because if you liked him back, you would pay attention to him, right? You’d notice things the way he notices things about you. You’d see him in another light than everybody else. You’d be hyperaware because that’s how Kiyoomi is with you.

But you aren’t, so he turns around and reaches over to grab his face towel to dry his skin. “What do you want, anyway?”

“You really weren’t paying attention to me!” You cry, throwing your hands in the air as you step away and plops yourself on his bed, facedown.

Now that he thinks about it, Sakusa has no recollection of you telling him about waking up this early, so it must have been one of those rare instances he was preoccupied with something else. “So?” He prods as he steps out of the bathroom and grabs his phone, “what?”

“I’m not telling you,” you shout but it’s muffled against the covers of the bed. You stand up, grab his wrist, and push his door open. He says nothing as you lead him out of your shared apartment and inside the elevator, pushing the button to the highest floor. Once you reach the top, you both trudge up the metal stairs that leads to the rooftop.

The air is biting as it touches Kiyoomi’s skin, sweeping his hair back like a black veil. The city below is alive with the constant honks of the cars and the lights that almost rival the stars, giving the horizon a yellow haze.

“What are we doing here?” He asks, walking closer to the edge but not touching the railing.

“We wait,” he hears you reply.

“So you woke me up at 3 AM for this?” Sakusa is confused. “For real?”

You hum enthusiastically, head bobbing up and down as you smile at him. Your eyes form crescents, contrasting the real one that’s hanging quite full above. You turn away from him, giving him the chance to study your side profile. You really are beautiful. A light chuckle escapes his lips when he notices the slight bump on the bridge of your nose. Sakusa has woken up to countless mornings of you complaining about how much you don’t like it.

“It’s cold out here,” he mumbles, pocketing his hands to keep them warm. He wonders how you can stand the cold breeze in a tank top, a part of your chest and your arms exposed.

You huff and roll your eyes, scrunching your nose. “I know but who cares?”

“I do.”

You huff again, crossing your arms and leaning slightly on him. Sakusa is aware of the way your hair bites against his skin, of the feel of your arms against his. It feels warm, enough so that a shiver crawls up his spine.

“Oh, there they are!”

His thoughts are disrupted with a pointed finger aimed at the sky. He squints as he looks to where you’re pointing and there it goes, streaks of white painting the darkness. He watches as they fall collectively, highly aware of your grip on his arms now. An arm is wrapped around his bicep, both palms laid flat on his skin. It burns and it hurts to have you close like this, dangling at the very ends of his fingertips without any chance of having you fully.

Your giddiness is adorable though. You’re practically bouncing on the tips of your toes, eyes wide and alert for more coming comets as they rain down the atmosphere. A small squeak of surprise and wonder alike would fall from your lips every time, and comes with it is the gentle feeling of your grip on him getting a little tighter.

“Oh, that one’s so bright, Omi!” You gasp. Sakusa follows your finger to a bright falling meteor, streaking the sky brightly. You both watch as it falls and gradually gets swallowed by the dark.

“Do you know Halley’s comet?” You inquire suddenly. Your eyes are the brightest of all the lights and stars tonight as you look at him with a pout. “Do you?” You softly prod.

Kiyoomi shakes his head with a hum. He lied. He does know what it was. How could he forget when it was the very first topic you talked to him about when you got partnered for a science project way back in high school.

“It’s like the most famous comet of all, how can you not know?” You look at him dramatically, face scrunched up. “It shows up around every. . . sixty eight. . . ? No, around seventy five years, I think. God, I’d be so damn old. I don’t even know if I’ll live long enough to see that,” you exasperate. Kiyoomi barely absorbs the words you’re enthusiastically discussing. He knows he should be paying attention to your words but how can he when you’re right there? You’re distracting enough and the fact that you’re now latched onto his arm is making his head spin.

You sigh as you put a foot forward, toeing the concrete. “People who can see it twice are so lucky. Yeah, sure, I’d see it but I’m so old then? I don’t even know if my eyes can still see clearly when that happens.”

Sakusa flicks your forehead. “You talk like you aren’t always squinting today,” he says. “I told you many times to get your eye checked.”

“My eyes are totally fine!”

“You can’t even read the text on the menu last week! I don’t even know how you saw those meteors.”

A pinch is delivered to the skin above Sakusa’s wrist and he flinches. He pinches you right back and contemplates the thoughts that are running through his head right this moment. Tonight is a great opportunity to confess his feelings or ruin your friendship. If it goes well, then good for him. If it doesn’t, at least it ended quite decently. Right?

His mouth is moving before he fully processes the words he’s saying.

“I could wait for that comet with you,” he says and he almost throws up. It sounded so disgusting and cheesy and so unlike him that he is sure Atsumu would never let him live that down if he heard.

“Omi.” You choke out a laugh, patting the back of his hand, “Atsumu is never going to let you live that down.

Sakusa groans internally, his jaw clenching as his stance goes rigid. Is that your way of rejecting him?

“But sure,” you muse and his heart rate picks up, “I just hope you won’t drop me when I’m old and wrinkly.”

And there goes his unplanned attempt at confession that went by way smoother than he expected, excluding the fact that he lowkey got rejected. It’s pretty evident you don’t return his feelings. He’s more stressed now about how he will break this news to Bokuto tomorrow at practice.

“As long as you’re clean,” Kiyoomi replies, “I think we’ll go a long way.”