#Rowan x lyria

[lucien-calore]

rowan whitethorn hunted down, tortured and killed the men who killed lyria and their unborn child, then fell into a deep depression and tattooed their story on his body and y'all have the NERVE, the GALL, the AUDACITY to make lyria the VILLAIN in rowaelin fics when she was actually a VICTIM?!?! it doesn't surprise me, as this fandom is extremely misogynistic, but y'all have reached a new low

[shallyne]

I Wish You Were Right Here

My second fic for @throneofglassmicrofics! @timesconvert chose the prompt for me again and I hope I did it justice.

Prompt: Wishing Well

Words: 696

TW: talk of death (murder), grieving, alcohol

Rowan stumbled into a clearing, the world spinning around him. The daylight already faded into the night, the horizon full of hues, orange, pink and purple blending together. They didn't have a clear end or beginning, they never did. Rowan had believed there wasn't an ending for him either, never would have thought he would have lost Lyria, his mate. His unborn child. It even hurt looking at the sky, knowing she would have found joy in the sunset, in the colors and changes, saying goodbye to the daylight and greeting the night. Lyria had found wonders in everything and it had felt so strange when he met her, because Rowan had been the exact opposite. Maybe that is why wyrd had paired them, intertwining their fates. Maybe it saw something that Rowan couldn't see, had thought that opposites attract. And against all odds, Rowan had learned to love, learned to imagine a future with her, worked for that future and then it was ripped from him. Lyria was killed and it felt like his world shattered.

It was very rare that Rowan went to bars, even rarer that he drank himself into oblivion but just this once he had hoped to numb the pain, forget about it for just a few hours. Of course he didn't, of course wyrd didn't allow him to forget his mate.

Angry, he kicked a stick out of his path, making him stumble once again but this time he couldn't grip something or find his balance in time, so he fell, eating dirt.

Cursing and panting, he heaved himself up on his knees and if it hadn't been for that, he would have never seen it. The wilderness had almost swallowed it, as if it wanted to hide it, as if it was a precious gem that had to be kept hidden. He didn't care. Standing up, not even bothering to swipe the dirt off his clothes, he walked towards the hidden object and when he was close enough…

It wasn't a hidden gem or a wonder of nature, it was just an old wishing well, overgrown by the wild forest all around it. Huffing, Rowan stalked to the edge of the well and looked down, into the blackness. Even his Fae senses couldn't sharpen his eyesight so much to see the bottom.

Maybe that darkness would swallow him, trapping him forever. A fitting punishment for him, for not being able to save his mate. For not arriving in time.

It was nonsense, of course it was, but nonetheless Rowan took a coin out of his pocket. He didn't check if it was gold or silver or copper, he didn't care. Everything was meaningless anyway, he didn't deserve anything.

“Show me the future, “ he slurred, throwing the coin in the well. He stared into the blackness, waiting for something.

Of course nothing happened, either because this was nonsense or because fate hadn't planned a future for him. He didn't care.

Groaning, he turned his back to the well and walked back to the clearing he stumbled into shortly before, letting himself plop on the ground. It was dangerous at night, but again, he didn't care.

His eyes scanned the sky, the stars that greeted him with nightfall, and the first constellation that he found was the stag, the lord of the north. He knew the legends, how the lord of the north guided the people of Terrasen home. How the stag itself had blessed Brannon Galathynius.

Rowan sighed, closing his eyes, expecting to be met by darkness. It was the opposite, it felt like he was staring directly into flames. They turned from an orange hue to blue, wildfire. And when the flames parted…

He was looking into a pair of turquoise eyes, the pupils circled by a ring of gold.

Not being able to stand the sight any longer and being overwhelmed by the desire to look into these eyes forever suddenly, he opened his own eyes.

Rowan wouldn't remember this anymore when he woke the next day, but his heart would and his heart, it would lead him to the glimpse of the future he was gifted with.

[wordsafterhours]

Songs About You - Chapter 14

Author's note: About time I got this done. I hope everyone who still likes this fic is around and will take time to enjoy this update. I made myself laugh, which is almost just as good as making someone else laugh.

*don't come for me at the end with pitchforks.*

Word Count: 3.3k

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She was floating somewhere between dreaming and unfortunate consciousness. Seeking to keep hold of sleep, Aelin flopped onto her side, groaning when she hit a dense mass instead of her usual plethora of feather pillows. Cracking a heavy lid, she peered at the lump. Dorian hadn’t moved, his soft snores unwavering. Least one of them was still delightfully asleep and unaware. 

With the last tendrils of grogginess dissipating, a splitting headache became apparent. It felt like the bones were trying to crack apart in areas long knitted together. A dull sense of nausea was also floating around, but she was trying very hard to not acknowledge it, hoping it would sink away. Hangovers were merciless and never worth the night before. 

Fleetfoot wasn’t bothering her, which likely meant it was still early or the dog was sleeping in as well. Whatever the case, Aelin decided more sleep would cure her ailment. Flipping over, she was met with brief surprise, again. Fenrys, a more eloquent sleeper than Dorian, was cuddling her stuffed animal, looking as though he was having the best sleep of his life.

Two attractive men in bed had to be somewhere on everyone’s fantasy list, likely even hers if she gave it enough honest thought. This would likely be a running joke in the days to come, but for now, it was comforting. One old friend, one new, both irreplaceable. After the events of last night, they had driven her home, whispered soft words as she cried, and offered to pummel both Rowan and Elide. It was exactly what she had needed. 

Sinking into the mattress, Aelin closed her eyes, trying to calm her mind enough to fall back to sleep. But it was pointless. Her body was relaxed, the soft linen sheets caressing her skin, attempting to soothe her back to sleep, but her traitorous mind was in hyperdrive. It kept replaying the events of last night over and over, on a high-definition loop. 

The betrayal was a feeling reminiscent of when she was a kid, and her mother would dab antiseptic on her cut. Except now, there was no one to blow on it, the stinging felt painfully in full affect. Rowan, in the days prior had eased it all, and somewhere in the depths of her disappointing sadness, there was a part of her that would fall at his feet, hoping he would do it again. 

Aelin’s body froze momentarily, shocked, as an arm fell across her body, pulling her close. “I can hear you thinking from here and it’s disturbing my slumber,” the sleep-addled voice said against exposed shoulder. 

“We cannot all be unbothered by the world, your highness,” she cheeked back. 

He let out nothing more than noncommittal grunt. She would have thought him back to sleep if not for the occasional lazy circles he was drawing across her skin. This was their friendship, strong and ignorant of proper boundaries. To an outsider, they would appear like a couple, but having tried that once, it was evident friends was the better choice.

“I’m not sure if I should be turned on or jealous at the moment,” tutted Fen, his voice a little huskier than appropriate for morning hours. 

Aelin cracked a lid, her bright eyes connecting with his appraising stare. He looked like the cat who ate the canary, and it made her face scrunch from a widening smile. “You’re just jealous that the stuffed animal doesn’t snuggle back.” 

“Hmm, I don’t think it’s that,” he declared with a low chuckle.

“Aelin, where did you find this mannerless mongrel?” 

“The same place I found you: the bar.” 

“Excuse me, that is not where you found me.” She bit her lip, trying to hold in a laugh. She just knew his face was pinched in indignation. Dorian was known to be quite wanton in his behavior, but it wasn’t a topic of discussion. Everyone just knew and that was that. 

“Is anyone going to invite the dog to snuggle or…?”

“I didn’t see Fleetf—” her remark stilted as a pillow collided with her face.   

“Well, Dorian, you were right, he is a mannerless mongrel.” 

“Fine! I didn’t want to cuddle with you two anyways. Wouldn’t want to give anyone fleas.” 

Aelin let Fenrys roll almost out of bed before reaching out, grabbing his shirt beneath her fingers. “C’mere.” 

The body heat from both men was almost too much to bear and she fought the comforter to stick a foot out for some relief. Contentedly, she relaxed, feeling unexpectedly safe in the current arrangement. She may not have Rowan and her best friend may have slit her heart from her chest, but in her bones, she knew Dorian and Fenrys would never hurt her. Perhaps, if she was less damaged, she’d let the blond seriously pursue her because underneath his cheeky persona, his heart was gold.

“Shhhh, you’re going to wake her up,” a harsh, hushed whisper grated across Aelin’s semi-conscious mind.

“I don’t even know how she’s sleeping through that loud banging.”

“I get the impression she doesn’t often sleep good.” 

“Well, sleep is on the bottom of what’s important right now. If you haven’t noticed, it sounds like someone is making off with half the downstairs!”

“Buck up buttercup and put on your big boy pants. I think two of us can take whoever it is,” Fenrys claimed, sliding from the bed and into his discarded jeans from the night prior. 

“I know we just met and all, but confronting robbers isn’t in my area of expertise. I have a full security team at home.” 

Aelin, who had been listening to this entire exchange, was two seconds from losing all sense of decorum and giving up that she was awake. Dorian sounded so panicked, surely his eyes were the size of saucers, and he was likely clenching her comforter tight. He lived a far more sheltered life than she had, despite also growing up in the public eye.

“Dorian, get up!” 

“You can’t just order me about.”

The bed jostled followed by loud thump. That’s one way to do it, she amusedly thought to herself. Cracking a lid, Aelin could see Fenrys holding out Dorian’s clothes with an annoyed expression. 

Dorian huffed, his face matching Fenrys’, as he took his clothes and started to put them on. His lean arms slipped into his shirt, but he paused, angling his head—clearly he heard something she did not. Fenrys froze, too, his stance stiffening as he stared at her bedroom door. 

Worry hadn’t been present before because if it had been anyone serious downstairs, Fleetfoot would have barked her head off. More than likely, the boys had heard the dog causing chaos downstairs, and not people. But now, doubt was filtering in. 

The bedroom door flew open and before Aelin could even process what was happening, Dorian was running full speed and tackling the intruder, landing outside in the hallway. Fenrys froze in a shock, arm still raised, a heavy book in hand. 

“GET OFF ME!” screeched Manon. 

“Ah gods,” Aelin muttered, immediately springing past Fenrys.

A pant-less Dorian was moving to stand, and Manon was flat of her back, white-blonde hair splayed out on the wooden floor, red faced and angry.

“Hey M,” she supplied coolly, extending an arm to help to help her up. Manon waved her off, too busy staring daggers at Dorian, who looked like he was wishing he could be anywhere but here. 

Aelin could feel Fenrys standing behind her and she leaned into him, enjoying the feel of his warm skin against her shoulders. Truthfully, an angry Manon scared her, and she wasn’t afraid to seek Fernys’ protection against her. 

Manon sat up, her piercing gold eyes roving over each of them, no doubt cataloging details and mustering up ideas. 

“Before you jump to the wrong conclusion, it’s not what it looks like,” Aelin rushed out defensively. 

“So, you didn’t all come out of the same room in various stages of undress? No shirt, no pants, and don’t even get me started on the amount of skin you’re showing.” 

The tips of her ears burned in embarrassment. 

“I swear, it really isn’t what it looks like.” 

“Somehow you saying that just makes it that more unbelievable. Everyone knows how you are.”

“Manon,” Aelin chastised. Dorian may have been a flirt, opportunistic in bedding people, but it didn’t warrant his feelings being stepped on because she someone was angry.

“You act like what I said isn’t true.” 

“That may be, but it isn’t true in this moment. We don’t know one another well, but they’re both being honest when they say nothing is going on. Please don’t make either one feel bad for something that’s strictly innocent in nature.” Fenrys brushed passed Aelin, extending a hand to the woman still laid out on the floor. Manon took it, rising to her feet. No thank you was given and the four stood in silence. 

She wanted to ask what Manon was doing there and why there was an almost musical banging coming from downstairs, but at the same time, she was tired of being talked down to. Self-conscious, she pulled down on her tank top, eliminating the skin showing above her sleep shorts. The pair of golden eyes missed nothing, zeroing in on her movements.

Fenrys noticed, stepping a few paces and giving her shoulder a soft squeeze in reassurance. “Manon, how about we go downstairs and get you some ice.”

“What for?” she sniped. 

“To cool you off.” 

“I’m not hot.”

Regret colored her face the minute she said she wasn’t hot, and Dorian looked too pleased with himself when he followed up with flirty statement declaring otherwise. Manon rolled her eyes and headed back to the first floor, taking the stairs two at a time. 

“Does she eat children for breakfast?” Fen asked with shiver.

“With a side of kittens,” Dorian confirmed, his blue eyes watching the stairs, as though he were waiting for her to rush back up them and give another lashing. 

“I think I’ll get dressed,” Aelin said to no one in particular, ducking back into her bedroom. The two boys followed, each grabbing their missing clothing and shrugging into them. 

“We’ll see you down there, ‘kay,” Dor declared in parting, Fen hot on his heels. 

With a resigned sigh, she flopped back into mussed bed covers, all will to change clothes dissipating. She grabbed the stuffed animal, sitting him on her chest, “Did you enjoy being cuddled by Fen, Mr. Snuggles?” 

She manipulated the bear into nodding, smiling to herself at her antics. “That’s great, me too.” 

“And here I thought I was the only guy that had been in your bed lately.” 

Aelin let out a surprised shriek, throwing the animal at the intruder without a second thought. The attack was easily deflected with an arm wave and Mr. Snuggles fell to the ground with a soft thud. His large, tanned hand scooped him up and tossed him back on the bed, a predatory glint in his eyes and a pleased smirk affixed on his perfect face. 

The embarrassment and anxiety coursing through made it feel like her stomach was in her throat, about to jump ship at any moment, and her lips pressed tighter together as though they could prevent it from happening. Women her age weren’t supposed to sleep with animals, much less talk to them, and now she’d been caught red-handed. How was it this man consistently had the worst timing? 

Maybe if she closed her eyes and pretended he wasn’t there, he’d just poof into thin air, leaving her and Mr. Snuggles to their conversation. Squeezing them shut, she waited, listening intently for his departure, but in didn’t come. Fighting against her better judgement, Aelin kept her lids tightly shut, refusing to give him another ounce of her time. 

Unreliable. Hot. Cold. Friend. Foe. The push and pull dance weighing down an already exhausted soul. It had been pretty clear last night where they stood and why he was here, she had no idea. The “why” bothered her more than his actual presence if she was being truthful. Nonetheless, she dug her heels in, refusing to inquire, refusing to acknowledge. 

A gentle yet firm pressure forced her knees apart. Rough fabric skated across bared flesh, goosebumps raising in response. The bed dipped beneath new weight. The very distinct smell of Rowan wrapped around her.

“Aelin,” he said lowly but in a way meant to command attention.

Childishly, she turned her head to the right, eyes still screwed tightly shut. Her lungs were screaming in protest, fighting for her to release the breath she was unconsciously holding. A traitorous breath whooshed out, the subsequent inhale assaulting her senses again in pine and snow. 

The bed dipped more right and the feeling of rough fabric became more pronounced as he shifted. Featherlight, the unmistakable feel of a calloused finger traced the bridge of her nose, across the light smattering of freckles decorating her high cheekbone, ending with a careful tuck of hair behind her ear.

Still, she didn’t move. He loosed a frustrated breath. 

Fingers threaded throughout her hair, as though he’d done it a million times before, his thumb coming to rest just in front of her ear. “Ace, please,” he begged, just barely more than a whisper. The defeated tone wilted her fortitude. He sounded so desperate and while Aelin shouldn’t care, she did. He sounded like she felt. 

“Why are you here?”

“I won’t tell you unless you look at me.” His thumb skittered across her cheek in a circle, a silent imploration meant to chase away the rest of her resolve.  

“You’re not an any position to be making demands.” 

“No, but I’ll get on my knees and beg if I must. It’s just five minutes of your time and I can leave when I’ve said what I needed to say.” 

Rowan on his knees sent her brain sideways, as she allowed for a momentary glimpse of it under much different circumstances to play out in her mind. But as quick as it had appeared, she pushed it aside, returning her thoughts to the present. 

His eyes were brilliantly green, every color of the Oakwald forest interwoven within their depths, but they stood out more than usual because the dark circles beneath his eyes. Rowan looked the roughest she’d ever seen him. Handsome, painstakingly so, but tired, sad, and something she couldn’t place. His silver hair, usually plaited and put up, was messily loose, like the day she’d seen it when he was cutting wood. 

Dropping his hand from her face, he shifted, resuming likely what had been his initial position: a hand on either side of her shoulders, one leg resting against the bed between her knees. Unable to resist the urge, she raised her hand, gently brushing against his side to grab a piece of silver that had fallen forward. She swore he shivered but it had been such a quick response, it could have been entirely imagined. 

Idly, she twirled the lock with her finger, waiting for him to divulge the reason for his forced presence. 

“Lyria’s pregnant.”

A million and one reasons could have come out of his mouth, but Aelin would have never thought that’d be the one. The feeling you get from dropping great heights on amusement rides could not compare to how she felt in the moments following his admission. 

Space. She needed space. Breaking out of his embrace, she was on her feet halfway across the bedroom before turning to face him. His eyes looked glassy, his proud shoulders rounded and sagging in defeat. 

“How long have you known?” Aelin wasn’t sure why she asked. In her bones she already knew the answer. 

“After I left here that morning. Lyria was waiting for me in the driveway of my house.” 

Life was cruel. Or the gods were. Had she wronged the world so in her past life and was thusly being punished in this one?  He had become a bright spot in her life and now, reduced to another pile of ash. Hiding her anger, she turned and stared into the empty fireplace, a too literal example of how it all felt. 

“Say something.”

“What do you want me to say, Rowan? That I understand why you stopped answering my texts and made me feel like I wasn’t worth your time? That I understand you’re doing the best you can?” She clenched her fists and turned back to look at him, face red, lip quivering with emotion. “Because I don’t. I feel hurt and let down. Gods I’m so furious with you.” Her voice cracked and it only made her more mad at this entire situation. 

“I’m sorry. I’ve spent weeks trying to decide how to tell you that I can’t be here for you like I promised. I want to be right here Aelin, and I just….,” he raked his hands through his hair, messing it further, “I have to be there for her and for my child. I won’t be someone who shirks their duty because it’s not convenient for me.” 

“What about me?” she hated how small and pitiful she sounded. Selfish even. But she had to ask it. Where did she fall in this fucked up situation? 

Somehow, in two strides, he had crossed the room and was holding her in a vice grip to his chest. “I won’t give you up.” 

“You just said you can’t be here because you have to be there. I don’t understand.” 

“It’s been hell, but I was respecting the boundary Lyria set as my girlfriend and mother of my child, but then last night, when I got a glimpse of how it felt to not have you at all… watching you crumple because of me, that’s worse than anything I’ve had to deal with since losing my parents."

Rowan’s strong arms held her tighter as he continued, “I can’t be here like I promised, like I want to, but I still want you in my life, Aelin. You’re my friend and you’re about to go through a very hard time. I won’t desert you when you need people on and by your side.” His assertion rumbled against her, putting to bed some of the crippling sadness he had descended on her only moments ago. 

Ever a glutton for punishment, Aelin squirmed in his grasp, until her arms were free to wrap around him. She splayed her hands against his back, enjoying the feel of his strong muscles ripple beneath them. Rowan rested his cheek on the top of her head, neither ready to break the contented silence they found themselves in. 

The pair stayed like that for some time before Rowan made to step back but was quickly stopped when the blonde let out a warning huff. His chuckled bounced her head albeit not in an uncomfortable way. “I was going to show you your surprise, but I guess not.” 

Aelin tipped her head back to look at him, her eyes narrowed in suspicion. 

“I think I’ve had all the surprise that I can handle for today,” she fired off, still looking up at him. 

He smiled, one that reached his eyes, as he lightly thumped her nose. “You’ll like this one, Ace.” 

“If it’s not a hazelnut chocolate cake from Emrhys’, I don’t want it.” 

“Gods woman, it’s amazing you don’t weight 300 pounds with all the sweets you devour,” he teased. 

“I have a great figure, thank you very much.” 

“I’m not going to touch that statement with a ten-foot poll.”

“You sure?” she asked suggestively, giving him a once over with a raised brow. 

“I’m leaving, see you downstairs,” he said hurriedly retreating for the door.

Not even waiting to see if he had left the room completely, Aelin chanced it and slipped her sleep cami over her head. A choking sound covered by a cough and subsequent slamming door let her know he’d seen something and that warmed her with satisfaction. If she couldn’t have him, at least she could bother him, and that would have to do for now. 

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Tag list:

@theresyourfireandblood @backtobl4ck @leiawritesstories @morganofthewildfire @rowaelinismyotp @jorjy-jo @theresyourfireandblood @numbers-colors-fashion @swankii-art-teacher @whispers-in-the-darkest-heart  @stardelia @astra-ad-mare

[acourtofquestions]

Also the fact Aelin got to say them, took the time, & felt safe enough to do so. And then you have Rowan who remembered, took the time to say the same things back (and then some).

Which is SO extra important because she has carried the grief with Sam for so long of all the things she never got to say, she didn’t get to say I love you too (“I hate packing” will forever haunt me, though it’s still a beautiful scene, OW!) or even the grief of all the people in her life that did not love her right or used her desperate wish to be loved against her (*coughs* I hate Arobynn & the one time he uses it to manipulate her) so those words are a big deal not just on a romantic level but a fundamental human one.

And then the same goes for Rowan, who has believed/said he “believes” that “the people you love are just weapons that will be used against you” and here he is loving her. Taking the time to say it (he didn’t get enough time with Lyria and has carried every last word (carved into his very skin) for centuries), knowing how much it means for both of them, and being “unafraid” too (for her & with her).

⚠️⚠️SPOILERS FOR QUEEN OF SHADOWS ⚠️⚠️

I. LOVE. ROWAN. SO. MUCH

“You make me want to live too, Aelin Galathynius”

“Not exist - but live”

"I spent centuries wandering the world, from empires to kingdoms to wastelands, never settling, never stopping— not for one moment. I was always looking toward the horizon, always wondering what waited across the next ocean, over the next mountain. But I think... I think that whole time, all those centuries, I was just looking for you."

He’s literally the standard. I don’t want to hear I love you. I want to hear this shit.

And the fact that Aelin said something similar a couple chapters back?? 😭😭😭😁

[hunnyrants]

A/N: Quick drabble I wrote while listening to Ptolemaea by Ethel Cain.

Summary: After spending several days in the Night Court, Cadre!Reader has a nightmare triggered by their unfamiliar surroundings.

Pairing: Azriel X Cadre!Reader

Warnings: PTSD, trauma induced nightmares, mentions of dying, mental torture, dissociation, angst, fear of the dark

Nightmare:

You thought it was real.

That the fire breathing bitch queen had saved you, that she had been real. It was nothing but something Maeve planted to tease you and then break you further.

You knew it.

The dream made freedom taste so real, the grass under your feet felt softer, the air was deliciously cold and fresh against your face. It smelled like snow.

But it was never real.

There is no fireheart. Maeve long since turned her to ash.

As you knelt once more before the dark queen's throne, your back aching with how long you had bowed. Utterly at her mercy. You knew Rowan was next to you, Fenrys on your right.

You knew they had the same delusions you were given. Fenrys was sobbing, he had always hated his oath and to be given a taste of freedom only to have it ripped away? And Rowan, how cruel to have to learn his true mate was not Lyria through a dream. But the savior? She died during the fall of Terrasen.

There is no escaping.

Your hands began trembling and the world started to crack and twist. Whips of darkness began cracking across your vision, and your friends began screaming.

There is no escaping.

Rowan Whitethorn was begging for his mate. His fireheart. The floor roiled underneath you and yet you could only kneel.

As Fenrys began to scream beside you, you forced your head up. Fighting against that unholy darkness that Maeve tortured you with for centuries.

Your last defiance was to look her in the eye, before the blood oath took everything from you.

But as you forced your eyes up and you caught a glimpse of violet eyes, everything shattered.

There was darkness all around you as you launched yourself from your bed, pulling your dagger with you from under your pillow.

You couldn't see.

Your magic thrashed in your veins. There were hands on your shoulders suddenly and a male's voice sounded nearby. The darkness cleared and you saw him, your fated.

Azriel.

There was something in his eyes that you couldn't place, but you didn't want to.

"Are you okay?" He sounded like he was underwater, and you weren't quite sure you weren't still dreaming until his scarred hands squeezed you.

You knew you were awake when you saw the other male out of the corner of your eye, Rhysand. Instincts told you to straighten your shoulders and make eye contact with the high lord- his eyes.

You couldn't do it.

He was trying to speak to you, but if Azriel sounded underwater, Rhysand might as well have been in another room entirely.

So you put your hands on your mates chest and pushed him away from you. Azriel hesitated, instincts likely bellowing at him to hold, to protect, to soothe.

You were beyond words.

Saying anything to either of them was too hard to even comprehend, dredging up the energy to pretend you were fine. The energy to pull yourself together and once again submit yourself to someone stronger than you made you want to bellow.

Blood curdling wrath hit you and your magic roared in answer, heating your wrecked soul. Not wrath directed at the males before you who were trying to speak to you.

You couldn't hear them anyway. You couldn't feel Azriel's hands back on your shoulders, shaking you before abruptly dropping you. You didn't register the pain in his eyes when he did either, or the magic that had erupted from you and cocooned around you.

You didn't notice that the dagger you had grabbed to desperately attempt to defend yourself from old ghosts fell from your hand and clattered to the ground.

You stared straight ahead and felt nothing at all. Until you felt Rhysand break through your mental shields.

Your very soul seemed to cave in when they fell. Rhysand felt it too, you knew. As he immediately began to pull back, knowing he pushed far too hard when your mind was this vulnerable. But as your memories and your pain swarmed to the surface? He saw it.

And Rhysand finally understood why you couldn't hold his eyes.

He saw it himself.

[bubbles-for-all-of-us]

i can’t get enough of gavriel x rowans sister, what do you think about one where she meets aelin and they instantly hot it off, reader likes to read and eat sweets aswell so they bond quickly and rowan couldn’t be happier that his two fav people in the world love eachother so much. And also what so you think about a timeskip to after the war when everything is at peace and reader finds out she’s pregnant. She doesn’t know yet but gavriel and rowan smell it on her the second she and aelin come back from shopping, how cute🥰🥰

Green napkins

You had been over the moon excited to finally meet your brother’s mate. Gods, you still remembered the day he had told you that he had a feeling that Aelin was his actual mate. Oh, how he had cried for Lyria. How much he cursed Maeve. You had held him through it all. Trying to soothe the aches in his heart. But then pain had been replaced by so much peace and calmness when you had asked him to tell you about her and from the way he spoke alone, you knew that he was truly in love.

"Sweetheart, this is all very sweet but there's only four of us tonight", you felt Gavriel's hands slowly sneaking across your hips. You had been cooking all morning. With the war over and you being able to come home, Rowan was finally bringing Aelin over and you might have been slightly too excited... maybe? Just eleven different dishes too excited. "But this has to be perfect", you said stepping back slightly, so you could look at the table. "My heart, it was perfect an hour ago and it is just as perfect now", Gavriel reassured you. "Do you like green or blue more?", you yanked the napkins off the table showing them to your mate. Gavriel cracked a smile and you instantly frowned, "This is serious Gavriel".

Raising his hands, he glanced over at the table, "I would go with green", "Well then we are switching the glasses", you breathed out, reaching for the glass but Gavriel caught your hand bringing you into his embrace, "It's okay to be nervous but I know that you two will love one another", he muttered, carefully brushing some of your curls away from your face. "Who said I was nervous?", you shook your head but one look at Gavriel and you knew that fooling him would never work.

"I just... I missed so much. They had gone through so much together. You all have and I was under a fucking mountain like a princess doing nothing", you huffed out. It had been a hard choice to make. Maeve had targeted you multiple times. You had been the only weak link keeping both Rowan and Gavriel in iron control. They thought that they had played the system in hiding you in another court but for that alone both of them had been forced to watch you being tortured for days, nearly bleeding to death. That had been the last straw and with the help of a couple of friends, you had been hidden in a place no one would ever look. Or dare to look.

"I had to keep you safe, had to", Gavriel said, cupping your face, "It kept you alive, gave me a chance to come back to you". You rested your forehead against his. He would slip to visit you from time to time when the blood oath started to frail. And what a meeting it was. Full of passion and lust and desire. A handful of stolen time. Where your bodies spoke louder than words. A slight swell in your stomach a clear evidence of that.

"Kept both of you safe and so I will not apologize for being selfish here", Gavriel admitted, "because I know that you would have been in front lines", "Hell yeah, I would have", you breathed out. Gavriel leaned in to press a kiss to your temple. "But now we are growing a family so mommy, no battlefields for you. Ever", he booped your nose before rubbing your stomach gently. You rolled your eyes, turning to fold napkins neatly. And since you knew that fighting him was pointless you had dropped the topic immediately.

Aelin was exactly how you had imagined her to be. In hindsight even more amazing than you had painted her to be in your head. Queen or not her shy smile as she greeted you told you all you needed to know. She was worried because Rowan was never going to leave you. The only family of his left that he was ready to die for. So your opinion mattered in this.

"I bought you some of my favorite sweets”, she had shyly handed you a box, “I wanted to get more but Rowan said it was already too much”. You glared at your brother and he simply lifted his hands, “There was no implication in that comment, just didn’t want to leave the poor man with an empty shop”. Gavriel carefully took the box in, giving you a chance to reach for Aelin, “I have a feeling you and I will be great friends”, you muttered.

“And I have a feeling we will be in a lot of trouble”, Rowan nudged Gavriel’s shoulder, who tried to suppress a smile. “Shut up, Rowan”, you and Aelin both huffed, falling into fits of giggles straight after. Leaving the two males to shake their heads. “How you deal with her is beyond me sometimes”, Rowan barely whispered, making Gavriel smirk, “Careful, she cried over napkins today”.

And the evening couldn’t be more perfect.

You got to fuss over the three of them. Filling up their plates over and over again. The conversation flowed so easily as if you had known your brother’s mate for centuries on end. “Sit down, darling”, Gavriel muttered as you rounded the table once more. “But the peach pie”, you pointed towards the kitchen. “I’ll get it”, he said softly, leaning over to kiss your temple. “But you still need to…”, “Flip it over onto the white plate, tap the top, and let it slide out of the tray without poking it”, Gavriel said with a smile, “I got it petal”, he reassured you. “I’ll help you with the plates”, Rowan pushed back his chair after giving his mate’s hand a reassuring squeeze.

“I could tell that Gavriel was a man with a big heart before but with you…”, Aelin trailed off, “He mentioned you so much while we… you know…”, she shifted awkwardly. “I hope only good things, cause he might end up sleeping outside”, you huffed playfully. “I too have to say that I have never seen Rowan so at ease before”, your eyes darted toward the kitchen. Where you could just about see two giant soldiers fighting a pie tray. “I love him”, Aelin’s words were barely a whisper and you instantly gazed at her, reaching over the table to clasp her hand, “Oh, I can tell. Your eyes say it all”.

[throneofsapphics]

have your little girlfriend, part five

Rowaelin x f!Reader

Summary: She never wanted to find out whether a blood oath or mating bond would be stronger. Gods only know it might take months to unravel the mess they’re in now. 

Word Count: ~6.5k 

Warnings: darkish aelin/rowan, possessiveness, toxic relationships, minors injuries/mentions of blood, smut, thigh riding, nsfw, minors dni!

A/N: honestly idk where this is going, i’m just writing on vibes, but reader still has a backbone. this got deleted somehow :(, special thank you to @moonlightttfae

series masterlist

“I’ll be with Fenrys,” she said. It was another iteration of the same conversation they’d had the last three days. Her bringing up visiting home, Aelin and Rowan not disagreeing or agreeing, but questioning the safety of it. Technically, she supposed she didn’t need their permission, but it would be much easier if she could convince them to agree. Would they drag her back to Orynth if she left on her own? She didn’t want to find out. Her eyes shuttered closed. She wouldn’t give up on this, she needed to see her family. Needed to get some space. Fenrys had offered to speak to them, but she wanted to handle this on her own. To fight her own battles. 

She had an idea. One she would surely regret. “What if …” she swallowed harshly, “I agreed to train with you,” she directed her gaze towards Rowan first, and then Aelin. 

“Without complaining?” Rowan leaned back, crossing his arms. 

“I’ve never complained,” he raised one brow at her. Maybe she had, once or twice. “It’s not my fault you’re …” she tried to find a nicer word to say. 

“Ah asshole?” Aelin offered. “Dickhead? Bastard?” Rowan cut a glare at her, but she only grinned. 

“Harsh,” you settled on. 

“I promise I'll be …” Rowan’s the one who couldn’t find a word this time. She pressed her lips together to stifle a laugh. “Considerate.” 

Aelin chuckled. “How kind of you, your Highness.” 

She straightened in her chair. “I’ll train with you,” she tapped her fingers on the table. “Three times.” 

“Seven,” he countered. She started low on purpose. 

“Five.” 

“Ten.” 

Gods-damned in. Aelin only looked on amusement. Ten times. She had to leave in twenty days. Between work, spending time with them, and her friends, she didn’t quite have time to train everyday. Well, not in the way Rowan likes to train - grueling sessions, at least three hours.  

“Seven.” She countered, he looked like he was going to raise it further, but Aelin fixed him with a look. 

“Fine,” he grunted. 

-

The weeks leading up to the visit, she spent so much time in her animal form it began to worry Rowan. He remembered the ten years he spent in his … after Lyria’s death. Maybe she was still healing - from everything she’d lost during those ten years. Her parents, several of her family members. He glanced down at the white fox, curled up next to his desk, snoring softly. She looked peaceful, and at ease. 

She was leaving in three days and something in his chest clenched at how far away she’d be, at how he wouldn’t be there if anything happened. Or how difficult it would be to get to her. Aelin had threatened Fenrys so thoroughly he didn’t need to do it. As much as the male could annoy him sometimes, he trusted him with his life, and more importantly with hers. If anything happened to her, he’d make him regret being born. 

He called her name softly, and her head raised, pretty eyes blinking away the haze of sleep. “Shift back,” to his surprise, she actually listened - and didn’t look too upset at his order. 

“You interrupted a perfectly good nap,” her fists rubbed at her eyes, lips turning into something between a frown and a pout. 

His mouth turned up at the corners, and he held out a hand. “I missed you.” 

Her eyes softened, and she took it, letting him tug her into his lap. She nestled her head into the crook between his shoulder and neck, he had one arm wrapped around her, the other still shuffling through reports he had to get through by the end of the night. A few more days, and everything should calm down for the holidays. But by then … she’d be gone. 

He opened his mouth to say something, but her breaths had evened out, body relaxing into him, and he was reluctant to interrupt her sleep. Again. Rowan pressed a kiss to the top of her head. 

The door swung open, and from the corner of his eye he saw Aelin striding in - looking both irritated and exhausted. She paused, tilting her head to look at the two of them, before a small smile creeped onto her face. Aelin had certainly come a long way, managing to curb most of her jealousy surrounding y/n, at least with him. 

“I’m stealing her,” her eyes said. He narrowed his. “You’ve had her for the last few hours.” 

“She just shifted back.” 

“And?” Aelin shot him an irritating grin, making her way to their side and pressing a kiss to his cheek. She perched up on his desk, shoving some of his papers out of the way. 

Y/n stirred in his lap, lifted her head up. She beamed as she saw Aelin. Looks like Aelin wouldn’t have to steal her anyway. Aelin leaned forward, balancing precariously, and pressed a sweet kiss to her lips, before sliding off the table. 

She cupped one hand around her cheek, tilting y/n’s head to deepen the kiss, the other female moved, brushing against him. His teeth tug into his bottom lip as he bit back a groan, hardening beneath her. The little devil noticed, because she moved again, more intentionally. His hands gripped her hips, holding her firmly in place, she was straddling his leg now, back arching as Aelin kept pulling her closer. Fuck. 

He kissed down the side of her neck, scraping his canines over her pulse point. Rowan kissed over the two small scars on her neck. His mark. Where he’d claimed her. How everyone would know exactly who she belonged to. 

Her arousal started dripping on to him, her hips wiggling to try and get some release, some friction. He dug his fingers into her hips in warning, and she stopped. Aelin let out an edged chuckle. She was always amused by how easily y/n listened to him. Well, how she listened when she wanted to. 

“Please,” her voice was breathy, and he knew she was asking him. He wrapped an arm around her waist, tugging her back to meld her body against his. Aelin leaned back against the desk, hands gripping at the wood - lips swollen. 

“Let her.” Aelin shot him a look. She was always soft when it came to her. 

“Go on,” he told her, and pushed gently between her shoulder blades, landing a gentle swat on her thigh. “If you want it that badly, take it.” 

Her head twisted over her shoulder, tilting her head at him. 

“Ride his thigh, petal,” Aelin said. 

He groaned in mock frustration, before gripping her hips again, helping her to start moving. 

“Don’t be mean,” Aelin tutted at him. Rowan ignored her, focusing on y/n, currently growing bolder with her movements, rocking her hips back and forth over them, soft moans and whimpers leaving her throat. Aelin’s fingers white knuckled against the wood, fighting the urge to step in, but flames danced in her eyes, lust glazing over as she watched, scenting the same arousal he did. Three different scents mixing through the room, flooding it. It was strong enough that anyone would know better than to knock. If they wanted their head still attached to their shoulders. 

As much as he liked to tease Aelin, he was equally territorial over her. If anyone else even glimpsed her like this, he’d rip their gods-damned eyes out. 

“I’m close,” she panted, “please please please,” 

“Go on,” Aelin said before he could answer, winking at him. His eyes rolled, but he tightened his grip on her hips, helping her move faster, harsher. 

Her thighs clenched around him, body stiffening, and Aelin leaned forward to swallow her moans, letting her ride out her pleasure. As soon as she started to come down, started to relax - muscles loosening, Aelin swiftly gripped under her thighs, pulling her up into her arms. Y/n laughed as her legs wrapped around her waist, arms draping over her shoulders. 

“You’re invited,” Aelin said over her shoulder as she headed for their bedroom, a sheet of golden hair swishing behind her. Hair he wanted nothing more than to bury his fingers into. The other female buried a laugh, tucking her head into her neck. He scowled. Aelin’s well aware he still has work to finish. A wink, and she disappeared, kicking the door shut behind her. 

-

The next three days passed quickly, and a few tears slipped down her face as she left, but she managed to wipe them away before Aelin or Rowan could see. She would miss them, absolutely, but she was incredibly excited for the trip. For the chance to get to see everyone again - and to visit her home. Well, Orynth was her home, but so was out there. In the mountains, far beyond any of the hustle and bustle of the cities. 

Fenrys shifted first, and she followed - taking off at a steady trot. They traveled in peaceful silence, listening to the various bird calls, water from the streams splashing on stone, pattering of paws against snow. 

Freedom, that’s what this felt like. Majority of their journey was spent in their animal forms - the easiest way to stave off the cold. They hadn’t brought much food with them, knowing they could hunt for whatever they needed. 

They only shifted as they approached the village, a mile or so out. Fenrys had shivered, wrapping his cloak tighter around him. She nudged him in the ribs, “at least act tough, brother.”

He cut a nasty glare at her, but she shot a grin back his way. Y/n thought about making it a surprise, but ended up sending word ahead that she’d be coming with Fenrys. They’d remember him, of course. He’d already made several trips this far north for his duties as Emissary. Although this one was more pleasure than business. 

“Nervous?” He asked, glancing at her. 

She swallowed and nodded. “It’s been a while.” 

Fenrys gave her a side hug, a silent it’ll be fine. She appreciated it. He released his arm as they approached the village, a female sprinting out towards her with a squeal. 

Her cousin, Lida. She shoved her pack into Fenrys’s arms, ignoring his oof, and sprinted towards her. 

-

The decorations in Orynth were beautiful. They always were this time of year, but something was missing. Someone was missing. Rowan held her hand, running his thumb over the back of her palm. 

“We’ll make sure she’s here next year,” he murmured, voice soft enough only she could hear. 

“Every year,” Aelin corrected. “I don’t want her to leave again.” 

“Neither do I,” Rowan said hesitantly, “but we need to be careful.” 

Maybe it’s wrong. It’s definitely wrong. But, Aelin hoped she was feeling as miserable as she was - was missing her just as much. There’s nothing wrong with wanting her mate close by. 

A muscle in her jaw flexed. She was surrounded by all of her court - her family, but without her it didn’t feel complete. Without her and Fenrys. She ran her tongue over the back of her teeth, and refocused her attention on Lysandra’s story. Something about the local ghost leopard population. 

-

“Are you ready to be home?” Fenrys asked. They had about three hours left, and decided to travel the rest of the way in Fae form.  

“I don’t know,” she gave an honest answer, not looking at him. “It was nice to see everyone, and I missed them, but …” 

“You’re not certain how they’ll … be,” he finished for her. Y/n nodded at him, lips pressing into a tight line. Part of her feared Aelin and Rowan wouldn’t let her go again, and she told Fenrys that. 

“I’ll do my best to make sure that doesn’t happen,” he’d replied. No promises or guarantees, and she appreciated that. The blanket honesty he always came with. He’d fight for her, she knew that, but if Aelin or Rowan put their minds to something - there isn’t much either of them could realistically do about it. 

The gates came into view, two figures along with it. Aelin had broken into a sprint. Fenrys quickly tugged the straps of her pack off her shoulders, and she sprinted to meet her halfway. 

The impact sent her stumbling back a few feet, but Aelin wrapped her arms around her waist, holding her upright. She breathed in her scent, letting jasmine and lemon verbena overtake her senses. Her mate. The bond between them thrummed with joy, that they were together again - reunited. Like it was mad at her for spending time apart. Another warm body caged her in, somehow managing to twist her around in Aelin’s grip, her face turning to press against a hard chest. He laid a kiss down on the top of her head. 

They didn’t need words to explain it. She felt it - their relief that she was back now, and safe in their arms. The pure possession in their touch filled some part of her, the wanting to be desired - to know her mates claimed her as much as she did them. How she proudly wore her mating marks - never making an effort to hide them, never disguising her scent, wrapped up in theirs so thoroughly everyone knew who she belonged to. As much as she was theirs, they were hers. 

She didn’t protest as Rowan slung her up over his shoulder, tapping her ass lightly as she laughed. He carted her right off to the bedroom, Aelin hot on their heels, and showed her just how much they missed her. 

-

She was still sleeping when Aelin snuck out, no doubt exhausted from the trip and traveling back. Trudging through the forest and snow for days was enough to exhaust anyone - even in animal form. The first person she sought out was Fenrys - who apparently was expecting her, and asked her what took so long. 

“Tell me how it went,” Aelin instructed him. The male let out a slow breath. “All of it.” Aelin added, and his face tightened. Whatever it was, he wasn’t keen on telling her - and a few years ago she may have felt a bit guilty, but when it comes to her mate she wants to know everything. 

“They were very welcoming, and thrilled to see her. She … came alive.” Y/n did seem to be glowing. “It took some convincing to get her to stick to our original itinerary.” 

Aelin could read through those lines easily, she didn’t want to leave. 

“Aelin,” Fenrys cautioned as she felt resentment build up inside of her. “She needed it, she’s already lost so much -” 

“She has us,” she interrupted, but he ignored it. 

“And her family needed her.” Aelin swallowed harshly. He knew exactly what strings to pull. A duty to her people as well, and if some of them needed her mate’s presence, she couldn’t easily deny it. Her oath to the country wouldn’t allow her. “They’re true northerners,” Fenrys switched subjects, “I don’t think I’ve ever been that hungover before. I’d bet gold her family could drink you or Aedion under the table.”

He went on to describe some kind of homemade liquor or wine they made, strong and dangerous apparently. You couldn’t taste the alcohol in it, but luckily y/n had stopped him after the third glass - telling him her family was getting him that wasted on purpose, to test him out.

-

“How was your trip?” Rowan asked, sitting down at the breakfast table. He’d been reluctant to let go of her, at all, and currently she was perched in his lap. He needed the closeness, to feel her body against his - to know she was here and present. 

“It was good,” she said hesitantly, glancing between the two of them, her neck arching to search his face. He ran his knuckles down the column on her neck, her pulse fluttering beneath them. 

“Just good?” He raised her brows at her. 

“Wonderful. I missed them. It’s beautiful out there.” 

“Can’t be as pretty as Orynth,” Aelin mused, taking a sip of her tea. Y/n gave her a small smile, but didn’t comment. He narrowed his eyes at his wife, tucking y/n’s head back into his chest so she wouldn’t see their silent argument. She could always read the words in their eyes, so he ran his thumb over her cheekbone, sure enough her eyes closed at the touch, a small sigh leaving her lips. He’d taken his sweet time to learn all of her reactions, how every touch affected her. 

Are you going to say anything? Aelin teased him. She also knows what he’s doing now. If y/n does, she hadn’t said anything, but he suspects she doesn’t. 

I know what you’re trying to do. Turquoise and gold eyes narrowed at him. Aelin wanted her to say she liked Orynth more, or put some kind of primary claim on their city. Wanted some kind of assurance that she wouldn’t up and move back out there. This is still her home. 

Aelin didn’t look wholly convinced. His arms tightened around her. She’d tried to leave once, when it was just her and Aelin, and he knew that fear always settled in the back of his wife’s mind. That she’d slip through a crack, through their fingers, and they’d lose her. 

I can’t lose her. Aelin said, as if she’d read his thoughts. 

We won’t. 

-

She knew they were speaking, having some sort of silent conversation. Rowan doesn’t know she’s aware of his little trick, but she’s more observant than he gives her credit for sometimes. She’ll never tell them she’s aware of it. Because, even if she can’t hear it - knowing when they’re having it, and what circumstance, tells her plenty. It’s obvious they’re speaking about her - they’ve never hidden talking about state matters in front of her.  

She let out a yawn, covering her mouth. “It’s good to be home,” she mumbled into his chest. “Can we take a nap?” 

“You slept twelve hours,” Aelin chided. 

She twisted her head enough to see her. “And I’ve been running for a week.” 

Her mate’s mouth curved up at one side. “Fair enough.”

-

She waited six months before approaching the subject again, and did so casually over dinner. She hadn’t approached Fenrys yet, but figured she could thro the idea out there. “I’m thinking about visiting again, soon.” 

As expected, they both went preternaturally still. They were going to have the exact reaction she hoped they wouldn’t, but realistically knew they would. 

“Why?” Aelin asked, too casually. 

“I miss them.” She frowned. Wouldn’t that be obvious? 

“You have us.” She countered. “You just saw them at yulemas.” 

“I’d like to see them more, It’s not enough just to -” 

“We’ve always been enough. What’s different now?” Aelin hissed at her. 

“You’re putting words in my mouth,” she snapped. “I need my friends, I need my family, I need you. You can’t expect me to pick and isolate myself from everyone else.” They seemed ready to cut in, but she kept going, “I was embarrassed at how shocked they were to see me,” tears built in her eyes. Her tears were always Aelin’s weakness, and sure enough the female’s face softened - even as Rowan’s remained a solid wall of stone.

“Stop. Crying.” Rowan said through gritted teeth. That only made the tears fall heavier. He didn’t seem to give a damn. “If you’d quit being emotional, we could actually talk about this.” 

She shoved her chair back, rising to her feet. They both rose with her, her fists clenched at her side. “There’s nothing wrong with crying or being emotional.” 

“It keeps you from thinking clearly,” he countered. 

She needed to get out of here. The tension in the room was stifling. Maybe it made her a coward to flee, but she couldn’t, couldn’t handle this right now. She made it one foot from the door, before a shield of flames blocked her exit. White hot anger and rage filled her, how dare she? Slowly, she turned back to face them. Neither of them looked apologetic, or like they thought anything about this was wrong. 

“We need to talk about this.” Rowan said mildly. 

She didn’t care. Maybe she was overreacting, but at this point common sense left her. “I don’t want to talk,” her voice rose, “I want space.” 

“I don’t give a fuck.” Aelin matched her pitch, crossing the room to stand before her. 

-

Rowan watched his two mates scream at each other. Normally, he would’ve interfered by now - diffused the situation, but he was pissed. She wanted to leave them, after she’d just gotten back. Six months is a decent amount of time, but every minute away from her hurt. Did the bond not feel as urgent to her as it did to them? 

“You leave for weeks at a time, why can’t I?” 

“We have duties to our country,” Aelin seethed. 

“I have a duty to my family. Are they not as important?” 

“You’d choose them over us?” Rowan cut in, moving to stand next to Aelin. He wasn’t being fair, and he knew that - but he didn’t care right now. All of their tempers were too hot. 

“I refuse to choose.” 

“And if you had to?” He cocked his head. He wouldn’t make her choose, but he wanted to know the answer. 

She shook her head rapidly, “don’t make me answer that.” 

“It’s a mating bond. You. Can’t. Leave.” Aelin said through gritted teeth. 

Her face was flushed, fists still clenched at her side. “I’m not fucking leaving. Get it through your head.”

“Watch your tone,” he snarled. 

Aelin surged forward, gripping her chin with one hand, and kissed her. Y/n stiffened beneath her, but her body reacted on instinct, lips moving against Aelin’s. He watched - almost in slow motion, as her mind caught up with what was happening, and she shoved Aelin off. 

”You don’t get to kiss me to shut me up.” 

He saw red. 

-

Aelin felt Rowan’s anger, and held up a hand before he could do something he might really regret. He paused, he’d been mid stride heading closer to y/n, and took a step back, body tight and stiff. 

“I’m sorry.” She apologized, half-heartedly. 

“You’re not,” she countered coolly. Aelin shrugged, but noticed how she watched Rowan with pure … terror. She’d never looked that afraid of him before. 

“Rowan won’t do anything to you.” 

Her shoulders relaxed, slightly. Rowan couldn’t hurt her, not really, but she knew if y/n made Aelin upset - hurt her in any way, the blood oath reacted to a potential threat against his Queen. The last thing she needs is for her to be afraid of him, for any more damage to be done. She never wanted to find out whether a blood oath or mating bond would be stronger. Gods know it might take months to unravel the mess they’re in now.

She thought about that time, years ago, when she originally tried to leave. She’d needed to figure out how to keep her, and keep her happy in the process. Aelin had an innate fear that she might leave one day and never return. Politics wouldn’t let her storm into the staghorns and take her back. The bond would likely bring her back, eventually, but she didn’t want to take that chance. 

“Let’s find a compromise,” she offered. 

“Why do I have to compromise when it comes to my family?” She was still spitting mad. Aelin winced at the bitterness in her tone. “Just give me some space, Aelin.” 

The wall of flames still blocked the exit. 

“So you can run away?” Rowan had crossed his arms, but not moved an inch. 

Hurt and betrayal filled her eyes. “You really think I’d leave you?” 

“I don’t know,” she gave her an honest answer. She owed it to her not to lie. Owed her that respect, even if it hurt her. She circled around them, giving Rowan an especially wide berth, and headed towards the bedroom. She watched her, not trailing after her. If she wanted space, she could have it in here - or in the castle. The door closed behind her, and she heard the lock snick closed, as if that might actually keep them out. 

-

Early summer, and the sun was still bright - despite the late hour, soothing and warm on her skin as she braced her hands on the balcony railing. Tilting her head up to feel the sun, her mind replayed the encounter. She hated fighting with them, hated it so gods-damned much. And hated that she could see where they were coming from. 

Choosing. She knew the answer they wanted to hear, of course, but refused to give it to them. He had no right to ask that of her. It’s like asking them to choose between Terrasen and her, and that’s something she’d never request. Not in an eternity, not for the entire life they’d get to live together. Mainly because she knew the answer. Aelin would never abandon her country and neither would Rowan. But, the difference is she’d never make them choose. 

Gods, she’d lost too much already. Her family, the ones left, are something she can’t stand to lose as well. Part of her, a part she needed to shove deep, deep down, was tempted to leave for a while - to prove a point. She pressed her head down against the railing. Prove that she could leave and come back. That she was still capable of having a life outside of them. But who was she proving that to? Herself or them? 

Would it serve any purpose? If she really wanted to go, would they let her? If they dragged her back, it would break her but if they let her go, it would too. 

Maybe some part of her is broken, for even thinking of testing them like that - of putting them and herself through that kind of pain.

The perfect phase had passed, and everything was shattering around her. The sun was setting before her, she needed to do something. Maybe they’d “let” her go down to her workshop. Or she’d argue with them enough til they either had to let her go or knock her out. 

“I’m going down to my shop,” she announced as she strolled back through, sparing a passing glance at them. She seethed internally as Rowan gave her a quick nod. It was probably acknowledgement rather than permission, but everything was out of sorts for her now. Everything was skewed. Her mind shut off as her feet took the usual path, through back halls and servants passageways, avoiding all occupants of the castle. 

Slowly, she opened the door. Everything in here was just as she’d left it this afternoon. Down to the tools strewn around the place, as if she knew she’d need to come back later. Aimlessly, she wandered around the space they’d created for her. 

Something snapped. Tomorrow, she wouldn’t be able to tell how she got to that point, but as soon as she picked up an object - a glass ball, painstakingly painted with small intricate designs - she threw it across the room, watching it shatter on the floor. 

It felt good. She picked up another, and another, watching them all smash to the floor - into a thousand tiny shards.

She didn’t hear the door open, didn’t hear the low curses, but heard her name. She whirled around, ball still in hand, arm cocked back. Fenrys. He held both hands up, taking slow steps towards her. His eyes scanned the room, picking up on all of the shattered glass behind her. She took a step back, and back, not registering the glass digging into the bottom of her feet, when did she lose her shoes? Her balance faltered, sending her careening forwards, knees digging into the glass. The pain didn’t register. 

Fenrys called her name again, eyes pleading. She froze, and recognized the look. Haunted by something in the past, in his past. His boots crunched, glass breaking further beneath him. Y/n let him take the small ball left from her hand, watched as he slowly placed it on the table before coming back, offering a hand out to her. 

She took it, rising up to her feet - wincing at the first hint of pain. “Don’t take me to them. Please.” 

He only nodded at her, and carefully picked her up - minding the shards of glass still sticking from her skin. She didn’t feel anything as he took a pair of tweezers, plucking the small bits out. Her body healed quickly, not leaving a scratch behind. He found a washcloth somewhere, wiping the blood away - any last reminders of what happened as well. Finally, he took a seat down across from her. 

“Do you want to talk about it?” She shook her head. “Do you need to talk about it?” 

Her throat bobbed, constricting almost painfully, and she nodded. An arm reached across the table, palm facing the ceiling. She placed her hand in his, letting him squeeze, and everything spilled. With the exception of her thoughts about leaving, because Aelin could easily ask him - and he’d feel obligated to tell. But, she could tell he saw where her mind went. 

“I know what they’re doing is wrong,” he started - and she heard the but. “This isn’t an excuse,” he took a deep breath, “Rowan lost Lyria, almost lost Aelin several times, and Aelin almost lost you. That’s what they’re scared of the most.” 

He let the words settle in, waiting patiently for her thoughts. 

“They really thought I'd leave. Permanently.” 

He paused, leaning back in his chair. “You need to make them believe you won’t, that’s the only way they’ll loosen up.” 

“What am I supposed to do? Take them home with me?” She pinched the bridge of her nose. “They’re always reluctant to meet my friends, or family.” 

Fenrys let out a big sigh. “Then pester them until one of them comes with you.” 

“It’s a long trip,” she frowned. A long time for one of them to be away from the capitol - and to leave the other completely alone. That would only brew jealousy. 

Fenrys leaned forward, propping his elbows on the table. “Whitethorn will visit Allsbrook at some point - likely next time the Bane is nearby there. We’ll time our visit - get him to fly his ass over the mountains, a quick trip.” 

“You really think there’ll be a next visit?” 

“I do try to go there frequently,” he grinned. Fenrys had gotten along well with her cousin, who had visited Orynth once in the last few months. She refused to ask any questions about it. “We’ll make it before the next snow hits - the trip will be shorter, you’ll end up away for less time.” 

She groaned, leaning forward to press her head against the table. “I don’t know if it’ll work,” she mumbled. 

“I’ll make it work,” he promised her. “Let me do the talking this time. You and your family are alternating now, correct?” 

She’d forgotten about that. They’d talked about alternating who visits where for holidays, and she couldn’t make a promise - but they’d told her they’ll be in Orynth this coming yulemas. “We’re going to try to,” she muttered, still not moving her head. 

Fenrys rose, and she finally lifted her head. “I’ll take you back up, then i’m having a little chat with their majesties.” 

“Anything I can do to change your mind?” 

He gave her a forced grin and shook his head. 

-

Aelin lifted her head as the door opened, revealing both Fenrys and y/n. Immediately, she noticed the small spots of blood - one on the edge of her dress, one on Fenrys’s hand. The male sent her and Rowan a warning glance, shaking his head once. Y/n didn’t look at them as she headed right for the bathroom. Against all of her instincts, she didn’t follow. Not with the look Fenrys was pinning them with. She heard the tap running, starting a bath. 

“I need to show you something,” Fenrys muttered, jerking his head towards the door. They were both on edge as they followed him. He led them right down to her workshop, and turned his head slightly. “Don’t lose your shit.” He paused, hand on the doorknob. And blinked. She counted, five times. This is real. Her heart dropped to her stomach. What the hell happened? 

Glass. Broken glass covering the entire floor. And blood - y/n’s blood. 

“This is what I walked into.” He said quietly. “She’s like a sister to me, and I don’t know what you’re doing to her, but for fucks sake. Fix whatever the hell it is.” He met Rowan’s glare head on, but she could only stare at the room. 

Aelin swallowed harshly, and could only stare. Had he picked all of the glass out of her? Waited until she healed? Cleaned the wounds for her - like they were supposed to. Months, she’d spent months making all of those little glass balls, and only one remained. Decorated with the Lord of Terrasen, a flame between his antlers - green forest in the background. Yulemas decorations.  

“Why didn’t you bring her to us?” She could sense Rowan’s temper flaring. 

“She asked me not to.” He was leaning back against the wall, eyes still fixed on the glass. “But she managed to get out some of her rage. Anyway, I wouldn’t dare tell you what to do-” 

“Yes you would,” Rowan interrupted him, and Fenrys snorted - rolling his eyes. 

“But maybe consider getting your heads out of your asses. Don’t get me wrong - she’s no angel right now, but try and figure it out.” 

Aelin hissed at the small insult against her mate, and he let out an edged chuckle, before sweeping his gaze back over the room. There was still a haunted look in his eyes, and she knew exactly where he was taken back to. Rowan looked between the two of them, and left without another word. 

“Are you still banned from cleaning up in here?” Fenrys asked her after a few minutes. She huffed out a laugh, but nodded, and watched as he grabbed a broom - starting to sweep all of the glass into a pile. 

“Keep the glass,” she murmured quietly. He tilted his head at her. “She might want to make something else out of it.” He didn’t question her, and she stood as moral support. They talked about everything and nothing - carefully avoiding speaking of y/n. If Fenrys was her confidant, she wouldn’t push him for answers now, even if she desperately wanted to. The back of her head hit the wall as she looked up at the ceiling. If she wanted to know something, she’d ask her directly. 

-

Rowan came in silent, and she tensed - still in the bathtub. He stopped in the doorway. “That was stupid.” 

At least he didn’t mince his words. 

“It was therapeutic,” she countered. He didn’t reply, but his eyes scanned over her body, and she felt his magic reach out - checking for any kind of lingering injuries. 

“You spent months on those,” he finally said. “Why?” 

She leaned forward, pressing her cheek against her knees, arms tugging them close to her body. The water was already cold, and a small shiver went down her spine. “I don’t know. It’s all a blur.” 

He saw the goosebumps down her spine, and grabbed a towel before striding over towards her. He stopped a foot away as her body tensed. “I won’t hurt you,” he promised. 

His rough and calloused palm was warm against her skin, and she let him help her out of the bath. He started running the towel over her body, and she tried to snatch it from him. “I can do that myself.” 

He pinned her with a look, and continued, gesturing for her to turn around. She grumbled the entire way, but laughed as he gently swatted her ass. It felt so … normal, and she leant into that feeling, the moment, and didn’t let the events of the last few hours taint it. 

By the time Aelin came back, she was already in bed - half asleep, half sprawled on top of Rowan, his hand running soothing strokes up and down her back. Wordlessly, they’d agreed to table it until tomorrow. Until everyone had a clear head. 

She blinked her eyes open as the sheets rustled, Aelin slipping in beside her.

Aelin pressed a kiss against her forehead, murmuring “tomorrow,” before moving closer, caging her in between the two of them. 

-

She woke the next morning, wincing at the nausea in her stomach. There was a slight cramp in her legs as well. But .. she’d only had her cycle a week ago, she wasn’t due another one for six months. And, she took her tonics like clockwork. Carefully, she untangled Aelin’s arm from her waist, awkwardly climbing over her, and slid towards the edge of the bed. She’d planned on an early start, to re-stock after her little episode. 

Her feet hit the soft carpet, toes wiggling against it. Gods, she hated dragging herself out of bed in the morning, especially if the two of them were still sleeping next to her. Turning her head over her shoulder, she spotted half-lidded and wary green eyes watching her. She fought the urge to roll her own, he was watching at her like she might flee. Not entirely unreasonable, but he didn’t know that. 

As she stood, pain shot up her legs, ricocheting as her muscles seized. She let out a small yelp, before crumpling forwards, barely tucking her arms in time to avoid breaking her wrist. Rowan was there in an instant, Aelin a second or two behind him. He fell to his knees before her, carefully propping her up with one arm as his magic ran over her. His nostrils flared slightly. “You’re settling.” 

-

A shield of wind covered the room on instinct. 

Rowan saw her eyes widen, tears starting to fill them, the scent of her fear filling the room. Aelin had settled shortly before she met y/n, and it was a difficult process to say the least. It wouldn’t be his first time helping someone through it. He knew how dangerous it was. How vulnerable Fae were during it. She could lose control of her power, or lose her power entirely throughout the process. 

Meeting Aelin’s eyes, her expression mirrored his thoughts. If she thought they were overbearing before … he turned back to y/n. “It’ll be fine,” he assured her, stroking one hand through her hair. “You’re not alone.” 

Months of her body re-ordering its aging process and magic re-adjusting. If she lost her magic .. although he didn’t think she would, it would wreck some part of her. She relied on it for some of her crafts as well, a large portion of which she’d just destroyed. 

She’d already lost it for ten years. To get it back, and have it taken away again … he shoved the thoughts from his mind. If it came to that, they’d handle it. In the meantime - he’d do everything he could to prevent it. 

[danikamariewrites]

Could I ask for Rowaelin x pregnant reader please

Poly!Rowaelin x pregnant!reader headcanon

The two of them get waaayyy over protective when you find out you’re pregnant

Especially Rowan bc of everything that happened with Lyria

He was terrified that he’d lose you and the baby

But you and Aelin were there to comfort him and remind him that the evil was gone, you were safe

Rowan refused to leave your side, insisting that he was always around to guard you and you weren’t even showing yet

You started going to more court meetings just so he would do his kingly duties

Aelin spoiled you more than usual

Any junk food you wanted she got it for you! From chocolates to any wild sandwich you could think of it was in your hands

When your bump started showing you were so happy. You could finally feel your little babe and could talk to your stomach without getting an insane looks

Since you were about 3-4 months along you could still fit in your clothes so you put on one of your favorite dresses and set out to find your mates to show them

You find them in the throne room, just having finished a meeting with the lords

You keep your hands in front of your stomach as you walk up to them and you have this stupid grin on your face

“Y/n! Good morning sweet girl, how are you.” Aelin cooed at you as she raced off her throne to you, Rowan on her heels

“Perfect. Look!” You remove your hands to show off the small bump

Aelin let’s out a cry covering her mouth, “it’s so cute! That’s our babe ohh.” And she kissed you softly

Rowan was mesmerized by it. Silver lined his eyes, his lips pulled into a tight smile

He dropped to his knees and cradled your stomach between his hands leaving feather soft kisses across it, “this is amazing.” He whispered as you ran your fingers through his silver hair

You and Aelin would shop for baby clothes during your free afternoons with Rowan acting as your bodyguard of course

Rowan would growl at anyone who looked at you

It didn’t matter if it was a friend or stranger

Rowan and Lorcan almost got into a fight bc he accidentally growled at Elide for touching your bump

The farther into your pregnancy the more fatigued you got

Eventually you just stayed in bed resting and taking a few walks during the day

Your walks were your alone time with the babe since your mates were always around

You’d point out your favorite flowers in the garden, tell them about Aelin and Rowan, and the latest gossip

This child was going to be the biggest snoop because of you

They would make sure you had everything you needed during your pregnancy

And most importantly that you were healthy and comfortable

Sometimes Aelin would massage your shoulders while Rowan rubbed your feet and ankles

They loved talking to the babe before bed, “were you nice to your mama today?” “What did you two do?” “We already love you so much baby.”

[anarchiii]

What would be… —TOG AU

Part four | warnings: angst, fluff, Lyria being a pain in the ass | Rowan x Aelin

Summary: What if Rowan had known Lyria was pregnant and didn’t go off to war? Fenrys would have most likely trained Celaena, not Rowan, Would Celaena be the person she is in KOA?

Note: this is an AU it’s not in the books.

Masterlist / Series Masterlist

Celaena’s POV

“What are you doing here? Why aren’t you in Wendlyn?” Celaena whispered, “I came to see you—to be with you, I can’t stay away,” his eyes held such sadness, “I don’t understand…explain.”

“I ended my relationship with Lyria, I always knew she wasn’t my mate, I had this feeling…would you believe me if I said she’s been seeing one of my companions Vaughan behind my back? And that Maisie isn’t mine? I always found it peculiar that she resembled so much of her mother and not of me, and that her scent was always hidden? Lyria said Fae children didn’t develop a scent until they were of age…I was so incredibly stupid to believe her…” he started crying then.

“Oh Rowan…I’m so sorry, is there anything I can do?”

“Be mine, Aelin, and I be yours, that’s all I want” he pleaded, “I don’t think I can…I’m sorry Ro, it’s not right—it’s not fair to Lyria—too Maisie…”

She started crying as well, she really, really wanted to accept but it was so soon and— “please, this is our chance, I can’t let you go, I know you want to accept…so do, if I have to spend every second of my life proving I am worthy? Then fine. I can do that, but please, don’t do it for me—do it for you.”

Would it be so terrible to have someone by her side? And not just anyone—her mate…

She sucked in a breath and…“okay, I accept” she whispered, Rowan immediately pulled her into his arms and crashed his lips against hers, “you are mine, and I am yours” he said against her lips, “and you are mine and I yours” she responded. Their tears glistened in the bright sunlight. His face being cast in an golden light, sure this was sudden but.

It was better than nothing.

The End.

[tothestarsinvelaris]

(please no spoilers if interacting w/ this post. i have somehow avoided all TOG spoilers and know nothing more than the lil blurb on the back of the book and what i have read so far. thx <3)

{Finished reading Empire of Storms and Tower of Dawn}

hahahahaahaahaah!!!!! nobody told me I would be sobbing!!! I should have known, but instead I blindly and happily danced through these books until my heart was ripped out and thrown on the ground!!

(major spoilers below bc I need to write it out in order to begin processing what the hell happened?!)

Maeve is so evil I literally cannot process it. The entire scene with her on the beach with Aelin, Gavriel, Fenrys, Lorcan, Manon, Elide.... oh my heart.. I don't think I breathed during that entire scene. I literally had to stop reading to ready myself when Aelin took those lashes...

Rowan getting to the beach and growling out "where is my wife" actually shattered my heart. Maeve talking about how she faked the mating bond with Rowan and Lyria, and that Rowan and Aelin were actually mates?! ughhhhh His Fireheart. His equal, his friend, his lover. His wife. His mate. stopppppppppp i'm sobbbinnngggg

Lorcan realizing what he had actually done, what he didn't do for Aelin and Rowan.. him sobbing because he realized he destroyed everything and betrayed them... the way I know his heart just shattered over and over at Elide saying she wished he suffered forever and then completely ignoring him. the way he goes to Rowan and says he will go with him to save Aelin... oh my gosh idk why I love him so much, but I really do and I'm gonna need a Lorcan redemption arc in the next book or I will create a headcanon that nobody will ever be able to convince me isn't real. fix it bro!!

Lysandra being willing to pretend to be Aelin, to take Rowan as her king and sire children with Aedion to keep up the guise if needed.... ohhhh... to willingly give up her freedom for Aelin, for the world, after everything she went through... that woman is amazing.

I'm so mad that I like Aelin and Dorian so much bc I don't want either one of them to die for this stupid bullshit Elena pulled 1000 years ago!!! I'm so mad that I love all these damn characters so much!!

Chaol and Yrene getting married is honestly so damn cute okay!?! The life-bond?! ugh I love them so much. such a cute little bright spot in these books. the way that she's the light for his darkness is so fucking cute (and so elriel coded). Chaol seeing the note that Yrene carries with her and recognizing the handwriting!! ohhhhh man

All the favors that Aelin called in, everyone showing up for her like the damn Avengers movie?! Literally everyone, every single person she showed kindness to over her life, everyone showing up and being there to fight for her and with her to save the damn world.. Ansel, Ilias, Galan, the thousands and thousands they brought with them... and Aelin doesn't even know it. Rowan's cousins turning on Maeve's fleet in the battle?! ohhhh my heart is made of tears.

The 13 showing up because Abraxos (sweetest lil flower sniffing bby) went and found them, and they all followed bc they knew he would bring them to Manon. And how they fought instantly, and fell into step with Rowan, Dorian, and Aedion!?

How when Gavriel was called to Maeve, he left his shield around not only Aedion, but also Lysandra because he just knows and cares about them even if Aedion wants nothing to do with him. :( The way Gavriel has been kind of a sweetie the whole time and I just want to hug everyone in this damn series.

and the godsdamned ships in these books!!! ohhhhh my gosh!!! (idk any ship names bc I'm desperately avoiding spoilers still holy shit) Rowan x Aelin | Dorian x Manon | Lorcan x Elide | Chaol x Yrene | Nesryn x Sartaq | Aedion x Lysandra oooooooohhh myyyyy goodness!!

gosh, the way that everything is just connected, even the gods are represented in so many of them. the way the threads are there and always have been, pushing everyone along, pushing the plot along and putting all the puzzle pieces together slowly and perfectly and now it's all coming together. Ugh a series in which a re-read is well worth it so you can pick up on all the little bits and pieces throughout!! I can't wait to read theories and breakdowns and everything that people have connected and figured out over the years once I finish Kingdom of Ash!!

[utterlyotterlyx]

New reader here ! I LOOOOOVVVVEE THE FAWN AND THE FOX I cannot wait for the next chapter fr def r !!!!! I was wondering if you think Rhys is evil / will turn out evil in ACOTAR?

Hi bestie!!

Welcome 🫶🏻

I’m finishing the next part off today so that’ll be posted this evening 🤍

And I LOVE THIS QUESTION! Take a dive with me 👇

*ToG spoilers below*

I really don’t want Rhys to be evil and in a way I don’t think he ever could be as he is SJM’s lead man to lead all men 😂

BUT in saying that, I do think there is something a bit fishy about him and how he feels about the whole Azriel and Elain situation, and it does give me Maeve (ToG) vibes with what she did to Rowan with Lyria (let’s not forget that Rhys shares some physical attributes with Maeve just like he does with Ruhn from CC) - we know that our favourite High Lord is the most powerful high lord to ever exist and that he is daemati so can alter perceptions and essentially just fuck with peoples minds just like Maeve did when she basically made Rowan believe that Lyria was his mate to only then pretty much butcher her to keep Rowan loyal and in line.

So do I think Rhys is going to turn out evil? No not really, but do I think that Rhys is interfering with Azriel and Elain by using his daemati powers to essentially make it so Lucien and Elain are ‘mates’? Potentially yeah

BUT BUT BUT

I do think that the big foreshadowing betrayal in ACOTAR is going to come from Mor, things just aren’t falling in line with her at the moment tbh. Mor is supposed to be this super truthful super powerful female but we still don’t know the full story of what happened with Mor and Eris before the ACOTAR storyline, even Eris says that no one knows the full story and even Jurian calls her a liar, so I’m thinking what if Mor can basically hinder others from telling the truth so that her perception of it is the only one present?

Also in the books it does say that the mountains shook when she was born, just like they do for the crochan witches in ToG which makes me think that Mor is a descendent of some sort to that clan. I think Mor is hiding something massive and I’m really hoping that we get to see more of this unfold in the next ACOTAR book ✨

Thanks for coming to my ted talk x

[readychilledwine]

SJM Villain's Week Masterlist

Your sneak preview of the vibes for @sjmvillainweek **masterlist will be edited as ideas become more and more fleshed out**

Day one:

Til Death Do Us Part - Beron x Reader (angst)

Beron had only known love once, and even that was ripped from him.

What We've Lost and What We've Found - Maeve x g/n reader (angst)

Maeve was willing to give anything for power. Including the thing she loved the most

Day two:

Sleight of Hands - Amarantha x Hybern’s Daughter reader (fluff)

Amarantha had always known the power of delicate, beautiful, and kind females, and she wasn't above using her king's daughter to seal deals.

A Burden To Carry - Beron x Lyria (angsty lore) He had given her everything, loved her through all her ages, just to have one fight tear his whole world down

Day three:

Charms and Spells - Amarantha x reader You were far too happy to be Amarantha's test subject. Perhaps you should have thought differently when you saw the brand new spellbook (dubcon smut - sex pollen)

2 Truths and a Lie - Pollux x Hunt's sister reader - Having Hunt in his dungeon wasn't enough for his former friend. He wanted to hit him where it would hurt the most (dubcon smut)

Day four:

A Throne for a Queen - Maeve x reader (f/f smut w. Exhibitionist/Voyeurism elements) Maeve's gatherings always tend to put her in a special mood, you just had to wait in anticipation to get to experience it.

Price Paid In Gold (part 2 of a debt paid in full) beron x reader smut - After 6 months of serving as Beron's whore, you'd learned his most intimate habits and his softest desires

Day 5:

Bonnie to his Clyde - Arobynn X Reader AU - Life as a mafia wife was far more glamorized than reality made it out to be.

Things That Go Bump in the Night - After his daughter uses her princess status to cause a small amount of harm, Rowan sits down with her to teach her the story of a female who's beauty and magic was used for evil and not the greater good

Day 6:

The In-between - The life after our own was not what Amarantha had expected it to be, making her question everything she had done as she awaits her judgment.

The Fashion of Fear - Villain Style Headcanons

Day 7:

Life as Beron's Whore Headcanons

Eyes on Me ** Maeve x Reader x Connall

Amaratha x reader x dark!rhysand Voyeurism smut (kink bingo)

Gym Bae headcanons with Pollux and Micah

[foxybananaaaz]

The “Multiple Mates” theory, and why it’s bullshit.

I’m sick and tired of seeing people talk about the “multiple mates” theory in ACOTAR.

I hate that it exists. I hate that it’s a thing people are legitimately debating right now. I hate the whole idea.

It’s not going to happen. The “Multiple Mates” topic was brought up in terms of the Throne of Glass books. Because before Empire of Storms, we the readers, just as everyone in the Throne of Glass books, believed that Rowan already had his mate, Lyria. It was stated she was his mate, and she died while she was pregnant with Rowans child.

So, in the rise of Rowaelin, people got hopeful, and someone asked Sarah J Maas if there was any chance someone could have more than one mate IN THRONE OF GLASS.

They asked on April 29th, 2015.

But this was a question asked before even A Court of Thorns and Roses was released, as that came out a week later on May 5th, 2015.

So this question was clearly aimed for Rowaelin, as at this point, Heir of Fire was the most recent ToG book, and we had learned that Rowan had a mate, who died long ago, and her name was Lyria.

The answer Sarah gave, was clearly meant to misdirect us readers into hoping in a Multiple Mate theory, for Rowaelin, but not truly knowing.

Because on September 6th, 2016, the Empire of Storms released, and we had our answer. And our answer?

The Multiple Mates theory for Rowaelin was completely false. The answer Sarah gave was a complete misdirection to the fans. It gave hope, but it didn’t answer.

Lyria never was Rowans mate. It was always, always, Aelin Ashryver Galathynius.

Empire of Storms, Page 654, Released September 6th, 2016

The “Multiple Mates Theory” came out exclusively for Throne of Glass. Sarah knew what she was doing when she answered, as she has mentioned time and again she knows the big plot points of her series, books ahead before they happen.

And this theory came out even before A Court of Thorns and Roses was even published to the public.

Now, I refuse to believe in this “theory” of Multiple Mates in regards to Lucien/Elain/Azriel. I refuse to entertain this theory the E*riels spew, because it is a theory debunked for an entire different series.

I refuse to believe in the possibility of “multiple mates” in the ACOTAR world until Sarah J Maas publishes it in a book.

No one will be able to change my mind on this topic, so don’t even bother trying.

[psychee92]

Mating Bonds | A Comparison

Disclaimer: This post will be a long one, so buckle up. As always, if you plan to keep reading, now is the time to take off your shipping goggles. If you’ve read my posts before, you know that I try to stay as objective as possible and stick to textual evidence as often as I can, but this is a post about ships (and we all know that nothing gets people more riled up than ship-centric posts).

Warning: ACOSF and ToG Spoilers

Main points/topics that will be addressed:

Lucien/Elain/Azriel | Lyria/Rowan/Aelin

Lucien and Elain | Rhys’s Parents | Rowan and Lyria

Azriel and Elain | Cassian and Nesta | Rhys and Feyre | Kallias and Viviane

1. Lucien/Elain/Azriel | Lyria/Rowan/Aelin

Note: This post contains a thorough analysis of these scenes—and the author did such a wonderful job explaining everything in detail that I will only go over the scenes briefly.

Lyria and Elain, the flower girls. Both mated to Fae males of high social standing (Rowan is a Prince, Lucien is a High Lord’s son and the heir to the Day Court).

Or are they?

More similarities.

The difficulty both males encountered when courting (or, in Lucien’s case, attempting to court) their mates. The hesitation (or avoidance) of both females.

And more similarities.

Maas uses the exact same words to describe Lyria and Elain, and underlines the fact that neither Rowan nor Lucien would have chosen them (due to a lack of compatibility).

Now, we know that Lyria was not, in fact, Rowan’s mate—that his mate is Aelin. Does this mean that, given all the similarities between the two couples, Elain might not be Lucien’s true mate either?

And how do Elain and Lucien describe their bond?

And who else questions their bond?

Rowan knew, on some deep level, that Aelin was his mate—but had turned away from that knowledge because he thought he already had a mate (Lyria), making a mating bond between him and Aelin impossible. Similarly, Azriel questions the Cauldron’s choice (because he also suspects that Elain might be his mate?).

For me, however, it all comes down to this parallel:

“Given to another.”

Which brings me to my second point:

2. Lucien and Elain | Rhys’s Parents | Rowan and Lyria

Let’s take a look at how the bond snapped into place for Rowan and Lyria:

Rhysand’s parents:

Lucien and Elain:

Three mating bonds, all falling into place at first sight. They took one look at their mates and knew. 

Rhysand’s parents were mentioned a few times throughout ACOSF, as was their mating bond. The similarities between their relationship and the current state of Lucien and Elain’s relationship are worth noting:

Two mating bonds, both unhappy.

We do, however, have evidence of successful mating bonds in the ACOTAR series.

3. Cassian and Nesta | Rhys and Feyre | Kallias and Viviane

Let’s look at how (and when) the mating bond snapped into place for them:

Now, let’s draw some parallels between these three couples and Azriel and Elain:

1. The Cauldron is somehow involved (it sent Rhys dreams of Feyre; it chose Lucien for Elain—making Azriel question that choice).

2. On some level, they all suspected. Rhys and Cassian when they first met Feyre and Nesta; Viviane when Kallias was UTM.

3. Something physical took place between the couples, which either confirmed their suspicions, or made the bond lock into place. For Cassian, it was when they first kissed. For Rhys, it was when Feyre was dying. For Kallias and Viviane, during their first night together.

(Similarly, Rowan and Aelin both knew—or suspected—that they were mates when the other was in danger or hurt).

In Azriel and Elain’s case, we have:

The Cauldron’s direct involvement

Again, that word—“get”, “given”.

Suspicion/questioning 

An almost kiss

If Cassian’s suspicions about him and Nesta’s mating bond were confirmed when they first kissed, would Azriel’s have been, as well?

If Viviane’s suspicions about her and Kallias’s mating bond were confirmed during their first night together, will Azriel’s be, too?

If Rhysand knew with absolute certainty that Feyre was his mate as she was dying, would Azriel have felt the same if he would not have been near death, as well?

Could I be wrong? Yes, of course. We have yet to get Elain’s POV, so we do not know how she experiences the mating bond (and if she feels a pull towards Azriel, as well). Similarly, while we did get bits and pieces of Lucien’s POV, it’s not enough to determine his own experiences with and feelings towards the mating bond.

On the other hand, could the “Azriel and Elain are mates” theory be true? Also yes. The parallels between Lyria/Rowan/Aelin and Lucien/Elain/Azriel are undeniable (not to mention the fact that Aelin and Elain have the exact same name, just spelled differently—it even sounds almost identical when said out loud!—and they both share the same scent, jasmine). Similarly, the parallels between Rhysand’s parents and Lucien and Elain should not be overlooked—SJM mentioned their “miserable” mating bond in ACOSF for a reason.

What I do know with absolute certainty, however, is that we are in for an epic twist—SJM-style.

[mercarimari]

So I didn’t manage to get much done today. But what I did manage to get done was plotting. AND A TITLE FOR THE CC/TOG Crossover AU. It’s still up in the air if there will be more than one part to this story. But tentatively there will be multiple parts exploring different arcs of the story.  The Title is Ashes and Embers.  And it will be part one in the Terrasen School of Magic series. Our story follows the Orynthian and Lunathion covens. Headed by Aelin Galathynius and Bryce Quinlan respectively.  When Aelin is faced with an arranged marriage that changes all her best laid plans, she seeks to find a way out of it. But her battle shifts focus after one of the students in their sister coven is found dead on campus, meaning that someone has broken through 400 year old barriers and is threatening their very way of life.  Bryce Quinlan has everything. She’s the head of her coven, one of the most powerful light wielders to ever exist, and her life is good. Until her familiar is found dead in the school gardens. Then everything crumbles to ruin. She tries to keep herself together for the sake of her coven, but the loss threatens to swallow her and drive her down the path of revenge.  Together the two covens work to find out how someone got within the barrier wall and prepare to fight the enemy that has threatened their safety and way of life.