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bxm-1012 · 1 year ago

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First Winter Solstice

Summary - Your first Winter Solstice celebration as mates with Azriel, featuring our favorite Inner Circle.

Warnings - Implied/Referenced Sex

1.2 Words

The first thing that sought to pull you from your slumber was the hint of the sun rising through the small crack in the shades. You had been invited by Rhys to also spend the night in the cabin with Azriel. The light from the sun an ever-widening beam of light across the floor. You cracked an eye open but felt too comfortable wrapped in the warmth of your mate to care to move. You rolled over to see Azriel asleep one arm loosely draped over your hip. Not wanting to leave the comfort of his presence you snuggled up against the shadow singer, his scent intoxicating.

You drifted back to sleep only to be awoke soon after to the sound of Feyre laughing. You proceeded to shut your eyes, drifting to a place somewhere between consciousness and sleep, an almost trance.

The third time you were pulled to completely consciousness you wouldn’t be falling back asleep. It began with a trail of kisses up your leg, staring from your ankle. Azriel’s breath tickled the inside of your leg, every time his lips met skin. You let out a breathy laugh. Az’s mouth reached ever closer to the very spot between your legs, where, if he reached it, you would simply melt into the sheets with pleasure. “Az,” you hissed in his direction as you lifted your head slightly. A look on your face saying Rhysand and Feyre are here too.

The shadowsinger paused for only a moment to give you a small smirk. He was sliding the edge of your nightgown up your legs when there was a knock at the bedroom door.

“That sex better be worth it!” Cassian called from the other side. “I’d hate for you to miss another year of victory!”

You weren’t sure if Cass’s interruption was good or bad. For on, you didn’t need Rhys pounding on the door telling you and Azriel to keep it down. On the other hand, Azriel’s mouth made your brain scramble in unimaginable ways, in ways you missed when his lips parted from your skin after Cassian made his loud announcement to the door. It was indescribably frustrating.

You let out something between a laugh and a huff when your mate hastily lifted your nightgown to press his lips against the skin of your hip , then crawl so he was hovering over you. Az pressed a quick kiss to your lips. “I will be back,” he promised you before climbing out of the bed and pulling the attire he deemed necessary for the annual snowball between himself, Rhys, and Cass.

He rushed out of the room, throwing the door open–-and for a brief moment you could see the smug look on Cassian’s face before the door was shut. You let your head fall back against the pillow, a faint smile across your lips.

A few minutes later you decided to get up, knowing that Feyre was present in the cabin as well. You left your nightgown on, deciding you were comfortable. You pulled on a sweater over the nightgown before going into the main space where Feyre was sitting on the leather sofa. In front of her sat two tea cups and a teapot with freshly prepared tea. You sat down pouring yourself some of the warm liquid before leaning back against the couch. The tea was a welcome presence in compared to the colder weather.

You looked outside to see your mate get pummeled by a snowball from his High Lord. You turned your attention to Feyre who was also looking outside.

“How does it fell?” Feyre asked you. “To be here as his mate?”

It was a funny question because you’d spent so many evenings of Winter Solstices in the cabin with Rhysand and his Inner Circle. The first year you were invited as a dear friend of Azriel. A year later the High Lord of the Night Court had assigned you as an emissary to multiple other places, making you an official member of his Inner Circle. From then on you were at the cabin for each Winter Solstice.

This was no different because a few months ago you and Azriel had realized the Cauldron chose each of you to be the other’s mate. You both accepted it quickly, though the shadowsinger had early reservations about being good enough for you.

So this wasn’t your first year at the cabin, but it was the first time you woke up on the Winter Solstice next to your mate to celebrate the sun anew. Being a dear friend of Feyre you had no issue with her telling her the whole truth of the matter. You spent a large amount of time in discussion with her, your cups of tea in hand as Rhys, Az, and Cass had their snowball fight.

Soon enough they came back inside. Azriel rushed to his kick his boots off before approaching you with a victorious smile. You let out a yelp when the shadowsinger came and swept you up in his still cold arms. You knew he won, and you knew he wasn’t going to let either of his brothersforget.

“How about you and I take a bath? Warm up?” You asked Azriel, still in his arms.

There was no verbal response from your mate, instead he rushed you towards the bathing room.

“You’re supposed to clean up, not get dirtier!” Cassian shouted after you.

You and your mate ignored him and got dirtier before cleaning up. Neither of you were cold after that. When you got back the three others, at some point, also washed up while you and Azriel snuggled up.

“Congratulations on your victory,” you said with a grin, your bodies molded together on the sofa.

“Didn’t stop thinking about you the whole time,” Azriel muttered before peppering a few small kisses to your shoulder.

You let out a soft laugh in response. “Glad I’m such a good luck charm.”

Azriel only smiled, pressing his lips to your temple.

The sun quickly disappeared leaving you, Azriel, Feyre, Rhysand, Cassian to admire the night sky of Velaris for a while after eating dinner.

You and the court spymaster stood together in the snow. He stood behind you, his arms encircling your middle, his nose buried in your hair, near your ear. The stars were beautifully, like someone covered their hands in shiny water and flicked their hands about, small sprits of water sticking to the sky above.

“Happy Winter Solstice,” he whispered to you.

“Happy Winter Solstice,” you said back with a smile.

When the rest of the Inner Circle arrived you all exchanged gifts. You received mostly books from your family with the exception of a scarf and a necklace from Azriel. He told you that he got it because it reminded him of your eyes.

You blushed slightly in response. Once each gift was given people began their exits to leave Feyre and Rhysand to have the cabin for themselves. You and Azriel were the last to leave. He swept you up in his arms, your head resting against his chest, as he flew to your shared room, to your awaiting bed where you both spent the rest of the evening.

#acotar #azriel #azriel x you #azriel x reader #azriel shadowsinger #sarah j maas #a court of thorns and roses #implied/referenced sex #fluff #winter solstice #feyre x rhysand #cassian

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emiliamildner · 1 year ago

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(Santa's) Little Helper 🎁🎄🎅

The Winter Solstice series is back!

I don't like drawing children, I'm not great at it, but this idea was too good to not draw it.

It's way too late for me to license it and put it up in the shop to get it shipped to you in time for Christmas. All other artworks from the Winter Solstice collection are available in my INPRNT

Inspired by ACOTAR series by Sarah J. Maas

‼️DO NOT REPOST WITHOUT PERMISSION!

#rhysand #nyx acotar #acotar #acosf #a court of silver flames #a court of thorns and roses #winter solstice #christmas #sarah j maas #digital art #artists on tumblr #fanart

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small-z24 · 7 months ago

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One-Shot: Secrets in the Night

Summary:

Azriel and the bat boys visit a night market where Azriel is captivated by Y/N, a kind-hearted vendor who impresses Rhysand with her handmade jewelry. Despite his shyness, Azriel later surprises Y/N with a thoughtful gift during Winter Solstice, revealing their mutual admiration and hinting at a blossoming romance.

Word Count: 1743

Warnings: None

The night market in Velaris was alive with color and sound. Lanterns hung from every stall, casting a warm glow over the bustling crowd. The scent of spiced cider and freshly baked pastries filled the air, mingling with the laughter and chatter of the shoppers.

Azriel walked alongside Rhysand and Cassian, his eyes scanning the stalls. They were on a mission to find the perfect gifts for the women of the Night Court. Azriel’s mind was only half on the task at hand; the other half was consumed by thoughts of Y/N. He had first seen her at a café in Velaris, drawn to her kindness and the warmth of her smile. Since then, he had found himself inexplicably captivated by her.

As they walked, Azriel’s shadows whispered around him, alerting him to a familiar presence nearby. He turned his head and saw Y/N standing behind a booth, her hands deftly arranging a display of intricate jewelry. His heart skipped a beat at the sight of her, but he quickly averted his gaze, hoping to avoid drawing attention.

“Az, you seem distracted,” Rhysand remarked, a knowing look in his eyes. “Something on your mind?”

Azriel shook his head, forcing a casual tone. “Just looking for the right gift.”

Cassian grinned, clapping Azriel on the back. “You always were the thoughtful one. What are you looking for, exactly?”

Azriel hesitated, not wanting to reveal too much. “Something special.”

Rhysand raised an eyebrow, his smirk widening. “Something special, huh? For someone special, perhaps?”

Azriel’s jaw tightened, but he kept his expression neutral. “Just a friend.”

Cassian and Rhysand exchanged a glance, their curiosity piqued. “Well, let’s see if we can help you find this special something,” Cassian said, a mischievous glint in his eye.

As they moved through the market, Azriel couldn’t help but steal glances at Y/N. She was beautiful, her face illuminated by the warm light of the lanterns. He wanted to go to her, to talk to her, but he knew now wasn’t the right time.

They approached Y/N’s booth, and Rhysand’s eyes immediately caught sight of a striking black and gold necklace. “This would be perfect for Feyre,” he murmured, picking it up to examine it more closely.

Y/N looked up, her eyes meeting Rhysand’s with a friendly smile. “That piece is one of my favorites. I made it with the High Lady in mind.”

Rhysand’s smile widened, clearly impressed. “You have excellent taste. I’ll take it.”

As Y/N wrapped the necklace, Cassian and Azriel browsed the other items on display. Azriel’s heart pounded as he stood so close to her, the scent of her perfume mixing with the spices of the market.

“You make all of these yourself?” Cassian asked, genuinely impressed.

Y/N nodded, her hands working quickly. “Yes, I do. It’s my passion.”

Azriel picked up a delicate silver bracelet, admiring the craftsmanship. “This is beautiful,” he said softly, unable to keep the admiration from his voice.

Y/N looked up, her eyes meeting his for the first time. There was a moment of silence, and Azriel felt as if the world had stopped. “Thank you,” she replied, her voice gentle. “I’m glad you like it.”

Rhysand, ever the observer, noticed the exchange and couldn’t help but smirk. “Azriel, you should get it. It would make a wonderful gift.”

Azriel’s heart raced, and he quickly placed the bracelet back on the table. “Perhaps,” he said, trying to sound casual.

Cassian chuckled, clearly enjoying Azriel’s discomfort. “Don’t be shy, Az. If you like it, you should get it.”

Azriel shot Cassian a warning look but managed a small smile. “I’ll think about it.”

As Rhysand completed his purchase, Y/N handed him the wrapped necklace. “I hope she likes it,” she said with a warm smile.

Rhysand nodded, his eyes twinkling. “I’m sure she will. Thank you, Y/N.”

As they walked away from the booth, Rhysand leaned closer to Azriel, his voice low. “She’s lovely, isn’t she?”

Azriel glanced back at Y/N, who was already attending to another customer. “Yes, she is.”

Cassian clapped Azriel on the back again. “You should ask her out. It’s obvious you’re into her.”

Azriel clenched his fists, struggling to maintain his composure. “I told you, it’s not like that.”

Rhysand laughed softly, shaking his head. “Whatever you say, Az. But maybe it’s time to stop admiring from afar.”

Azriel knew they were right, but the fear of rejection and the desire to keep his feelings hidden weighed heavily on him. As they continued through the market, he resolved to find a way to speak to Y/N again—soon. For now, he would hold onto the hope that there was a chance for something more.

Winter Solstice had arrived, and the House of Wind was filled with festive cheer. The Night Court gathered to celebrate, exchanging gifts and sharing stories around a roaring fire. Azriel, however, had only one thing on his mind: finding a way to see Y/N.

The night was lively, with laughter and merriment echoing through the halls. Feyre and Rhysand were at the center of it all, their joy infectious. Cassian and Nesta were engaged in a playful argument over who had given the better gift, while Elain moved gracefully through the crowd, her presence a calming influence.

Azriel stood on the periphery, his eyes flickering to the clock. He had managed to find the rare book Y/N had wanted, wrapped it carefully, and planned to slip away to surprise her. But every time he moved to leave, someone called him back.

“Az, come join us!” Cassian shouted, waving him over to where he and Nesta were sitting. “We’re about to start the gift exchange.”

Azriel sighed inwardly but forced a smile as he approached them. He handed out his gifts, his mind only half on the festivities. His eyes kept darting to the door, hoping for an opportunity to slip away unnoticed.

“Azriel, you’ve been awfully quiet tonight,” Rhysand said, appearing at his side with a knowing look. “Something on your mind?”

Azriel shook his head, masking his impatience. “Just enjoying the evening.”

Rhysand raised an eyebrow but didn’t press further. “Well, don’t be a stranger. It’s a night to celebrate.”

As the night wore on, Azriel felt the frustration building. Every time he tried to make his exit, someone else drew him back into the festivities. Feyre called him over to admire a painting, Elain asked for his help with a particularly tricky gift wrap, and even Amren engaged him in a conversation about strategy for their next mission.

Finally, as the clock struck midnight and the celebrations began to wind down, Azriel saw his chance. Most of the guests were starting to leave, and the attention had shifted away from him. He slipped the wrapped book into his coat pocket and quietly made his way to the door.

“Azriel,” Cassian called from across the room, “where are you off to in such a hurry?”

Azriel turned, trying to keep his tone light. “Just need some fresh air.”

Cassian’s eyes twinkled with mischief. “Fresh air, huh? Sure you’re not sneaking off to meet someone special?”

Azriel’s heart skipped a beat, but he forced a casual smile. “Just needed a moment to myself.”

Rhysand, who had been watching the exchange, gave Azriel a long, appraising look. “Don’t stay out too long. It’s cold out there.”

Azriel nodded and quickly stepped out into the crisp night air, his breath visible in the chill. He walked briskly through the quiet streets of Velaris, his thoughts focused on Y/N. He hoped she hadn’t given up on seeing him tonight.

When he finally reached her shop, he saw a soft light glowing from inside. Relief washed over him as he knocked gently on the door. It opened almost immediately, and Y/N stood there, her eyes lighting up with joy and surprise.

“Azriel,” she breathed, stepping aside to let him in. “I didn’t think you’d make it.”

He smiled, pulling the wrapped book from his coat and handing it to her. “I wouldn’t miss this for the world.”

Y/N took the gift, her fingers brushing against his. “Thank you. Come in, it’s freezing out there.”

He stepped inside, the warmth of her shop enveloping him. She led him to a cozy corner where a small fire crackled in the hearth. They sat together, close but not touching, the intimacy of the moment palpable.

Y/N unwrapped the book, her eyes widening with delight. “Azriel, this is perfect. Thank you.”

He smiled, watching her as she carefully turned the pages. “I’m glad you like it.”

She looked up, her eyes filled with emotion. “I got you something too.”

She reached behind her and brought out a small, intricately wrapped box. Azriel took it, his heart swelling with anticipation. Inside, he found a finely crafted leather bracelet, adorned with subtle engravings that seemed to shimmer in the firelight.

“It’s beautiful,” he said softly, slipping it onto his wrist. “Thank you, Y/N.”

They sat in comfortable silence for a while, the warmth of the fire and the soft glow of the lanterns creating a cocoon of peace around them. Azriel felt a sense of contentment he hadn’t known in a long time, simply being in her presence.

Finally, he broke the silence. “Y/N, I… I’ve been wanting to tell you something.”

She looked at him, her expression open and encouraging. “What is it, Azriel?”

He took a deep breath, gathering his courage. “I’ve admired you from afar for a long time. Your kindness, your smile… they drew me in. I’ve found myself thinking about you more than I care to admit.”

Y/N’s eyes softened, and she reached out to take his hand. “I’ve felt the same way, Azriel. I just didn’t know if you felt the same.”

Relief and joy surged through him as he squeezed her hand gently. “I do. And I want to get to know you better, if you’ll let me.”

She smiled, her eyes shining with happiness. “I’d like that very much.”

As the fire crackled and the night deepened, Azriel and Y/N sat together, their hearts beating in unison. The journey ahead was uncertain, but in that moment, surrounded by the warmth of the fire and the comfort of each other’s presence, they felt a glimmer of hope—a promise of something beautiful yet to come.

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breadnabutterfingers · 1 month ago

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Witches in ACOTAR...

So, I'm super passionate about the idea of introducing the witches in ACOTAR, and before you say "yeah, but there are witches in TOG" and all, I haven't read TOG and not really planning to do it anytime soon and it doesn't mean they have to be the same. I wanted to develop my own story around a witch OFC and with that, I started drafting stuff to introduce my vision and give my future work a solid base. Don't know if it worked, but here's what I've written so far about the witches and how I see them fitting in the ACOTAR realities...

Witches reside in covens and practice their magic in the sacred isolation within their own kind.

The Coven name: Each coven is named after the court it resides in, tying their identity to the land they inhabit. For instance, the Summer Court Coven reflects the waters and tides of its domain, while the Night Court Coven draws power from the celestial energies of its skies. This naming tradition reinforces the deep connection between the covens and the courts, even if witches refuse to recognize the authority of the High Lords.

Hierarchy: Each coven is led by a Magister or Magistress, who acts as the head decision-maker and represents the coven in any political matters. Right below them is the Archmage, second in command, responsible for the day-to-day wellbeing of the coven, overseeing living conditions, and ensuring the safety of anyone under the coven’s protection.

The number of Archmages depends on the coven’s size—larger covens might have several, each managing a specific region or location. Within the covens, witches of different types bring their unique skills and magic to the table, working together to channel the power granted to them by the Mother.

Magic: Not every child is destined to inherit magic, as it is a gift granted by the land itself, not by blood. They are taught the craft—the rituals, the laws, the lore—but only when they come of age does the truth reveal itself: what magic, if any, they will carry within them.

Procreation: Witches are free-spirited when it comes to pleasure, but strict rules govern the matter of procreation.

1. Witches are forbidden from laying with Fae who don’t belong to their court or with lesser Fae. Such unions are considered a violation of coven laws.

2. If a witch chooses to conceive with a Fae, the act is seen as a ritual of creation where the male’s role is minimal. After taking his seed, the witch is bound by law to end his life. This ritual reflects the belief that the true power of life creation lies with the female. In their view, no male has the right to claim any part of that power. The witch carries the full weight of creation, and the act of conception is hers alone to control, with the male’s involvement seen as nothing more than a necessary, but fleeting, step.

3. The child conceived in this way is typically named after the father, though this is more of an honoring gesture than a recognition of equal contribution. It’s a way to acknowledge the brief role the male played in the creation of life, even though the witch carries the full weight of the process herself. The name serves as a token, a way of marking the connection without granting any real claim to the power of creation.

4. Warlocks are strictly prohibited from procreating, as the gift of life is reserved solely for witches. This rule underscores the covens’ matriarchal and, admittedly, sexist traditions.

5. If a witch sets her sights on a particular Fae and desires his seed, she is allowed to use spells—subtle or otherwise—to sway him into her embrace. This practice is seen as a natural extension of their craft, especially given their frequent use of Sex Magic.

The Coven system: Prythian once held seven covens, each unique in its magic and traditions, but the aftermath of the War left their legacy fractured and bleeding. Hybern's purge swept through the Spring Court and the Mortal Lands, annihilating the witches there in a bloody attempt to cleanse the land of their existence. Now, only six covens remain, scattered across Prythian, each led by a Magister—a High Fae master of High Magic, a power bestowed by the Mother herself, whom the covens revere.

The Summer Court houses Geraldine, a Sea Witch deeply connected to water. Her abilities allow her to call storms, summon rain, and weave visions through her Seer’s gift, her power ebbing and flowing like the tides she commands.

The Autumn Court is led by Alaster, a Ceremonial Warlock who thrives in the complex world of rituals and tradition. High Magic is his thing, full of detailed ceremonies and precise, dramatic moments that demand both respect and flair.

The Winter Court, home to Caedmon, the Gray Warlock, walks a fine line between light and dark magic, using curses and hexes as tools to bring justice. He redirects twisted energy to restore balance. Gray magic doesn’t shy away from where others fear to tread, but it has a clear purpose—justice and fairness, guided by the spirits that hover just out of sight.

The Spring Court once was led by Mackenna, a Green Witch whose magic was deeply entwined with her land. Her power could coax life from the soil with a thought, manipulate the earth itself, and grow forests overnight. But she and her coven fell to Hybern’s slaughter, leaving nothing but haunted whispers in their wake.

The Night Court coven, now relocated to Illyria after Rhysand’s father deemed them too dangerous yet too undeniable to erase, is led by Elena, a Nightmage. Her magic revolves around the cosmos, drawing strength from the Moon’s cycles and the vast energies of the celestial void. Stargazer, lunar weaver, protector of cosmic tides.

In the Day Court, Karina, a Hedge Witch, practices an ancient and solitary craft. Her magic walks the hedge—the boundary between realms—and blends shamanism with nature magic. She journeys between worlds with ease, merging the seen and unseen with a simplicity that belies her deep connection to the otherworld.

Finally, the Dawn Court is guided by Koreolanus, Karina’s brother, also a Hedge Warlock. Unlike his sister’s spiritual wanderings, his magic is grounded and pragmatic. He creates remedies, heals with the elements, and keeps his rituals stripped down and minimalist, focused solely on the task at hand.

And then there’s the Mortal Lands, a void where magic once thrived. Alexandrina, an Elemental Witch, had led her coven with power tied to the raw forces of nature itself. She was burned at the stake in a ceremonial execution that wiped out her coven entirely, leaving their magic as nothing more than ash scattered to the wind.

Involvement in politics and the High Lord jurisdiction: Witches, as a species, don’t recognize the authority of the High Lords, but there’s an unspoken arrangement between them. The High Lords grant the covens land and the freedom to use it, largely as a way to honor their worship of the Mother and the role witches play in maintaining the land’s well-being through their rituals and ceremonies.

The relationship between a High Lord and a coven’s Magister varies greatly. While the two roles are often intertwined, neither has the right to speak or act on behalf of the other’s interests. Some High Lords maintain strong alliances with their coven Magisters—Helion and Thesan, for instance, are deeply connected to the covens in their courts and occasionally benefit from collaborative efforts. Others remain neutral, seeing witches as a necessary but distant presence. Then there are those, like Rhysand’s father before him, who openly despise witches but tolerate them begrudgingly.

Despite these varying dynamics, witches are fiercely protective of their independence. They rarely share their knowledge and almost never invite outsiders to join their covens or step into their sacred spaces. Witches exist as a closed and guarded community, revealing only as much as they deem necessary to maintain peace or advance their own interests.

Codex:

1. The Coven is the law. A witch’s ultimate loyalty lies with the coven above all else.

2. No interbreeding. Witches are forbidden from breeding with lesser Fae or Fae outside their respective court.

3. All magic is permitted. Within the coven, any form of magic is acceptable for practice.

4. Stay out of Prythian politics. Coven members are prohibited from engaging in political matters unless their existence is directly threatened.

5. No recognition of High Lords. The covens do not acknowledge the authority of High Lords. Decisions regarding witches are made solely by a consulate of all coven Magisters.

6. No harm to one’s own. Witches who harm or kill their own kind face execution without trial.7. The Tithe is mandatory. Every witch within the coven must contribute to The Tithe as part of their duty.

Of course, this is in works and will be elaborated and maybe even make more sense in the context of the future fanfiction plot, but for now...that's that. What do you think?

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everythingacotarbxm1012 · 1 year ago