#Spring court discourse

[bookishfeylin]

People LEGITIMATELY believe that no one could possibly be harmed or killed during the toppling of a government on the brink of invasion…

What are the Feysand stans on??????

[praetorqueenreyna]

can really tell that Feyre is the self-insert protag for a lot yall do-nothings that want everyone around you to hold your hand and coddle you while you scream and cry like a toddler

[ramoneida]

I've talked about this before but I think it bears repeating.

Isn't it funny how some people claim "Elain needs to get out of the Night Court! They stifle her, all she does is serve in her sister's house!"

And then their idea of how her story will go is that she will end up... moving to the Spring/Day court to garden and bake (a.k.a. "serve") in someone else's house?

The pervasive discourse that Elain will somehow be the MFC of her own book and yet remain a static character drives me crazy.

[mistresskayla-blog1]

A Sweet Stroll

Characters: John & Margaret Thornton

Lyn's Writing Event - Week4 - Day 23 (late submission)

May 23rd: Week 4: Rain

Characters:  John Thorton x Margaret Thornton (fem reader perspective)

Fandom: Richard Armitage – John Thornton – North & South

The character of John Thornton and Margaret Hale were created by Elizabeth Haskell. Adapted for television by Sally Welch.  

Word Count: 1.2k

Warnings: fluff, kissing, rain, public affection, romance,

            The day opened warm and sunny, and John gathered the arrangements to take Margaret out on a wonderful spring picnic. Margaret was busy with his mother that morning holding discourse at the local women’s labor group. And John smiled to himself that he had such a head strong woman to hold his heart. Her bravery and courage inspired him to no end, even if it was a bit muddled during their courting. Relieving himself of some of his ego allowed his heart to open up further and love her all the more.

He thanked God every day for her, even though he was a thoughtful man and didn’t prescribe to theology in the devout sense. John Thornton was a respectable man, but a progressive one, in work and in life, he liked to see things grow into better outcomes for everyone. Margaret gave him that peace and reassurance, so he loved to plan these little outings to make her feel special and loved.

Dixon was busy preparing the basket for John, as he awaited Margaret’s return. It was a wonderful late Saturday morning; the hour was approaching luncheon and Margaret still had not returned. John sighed at his pocket watch, clicking it closed and returning it to his vest pocket. He looked out through the front window scanning the street for a carriage, or her strolling. He wanted to make sure she was safe, afterall, as his wife, Margaret is very important to him.

Dixon came into the front parlor with the basket, “There you are, Mr Thornton, its all ready, where is Margaret, beg your pardon, Mrs. Thornton.”

John smiled at Dixon warmly, and subtly, “I have told you to call me John, please Dixon, you are as much my family now as you ever were hers.”

Dixon rung her hands slightly less and tried to smile, “Yes, yes of course, Mr.. John. Beg your pardon.” Dixon went back to the kitchen at the other end of the house. John’s smile broadened a bit more, as she left him. His eyes scanned the streets again, and a carriage drew up, stopping at his door. He went to the door and opened it, as his mother and Margaret stepped out of the carriage. Margaret beamed up at John from the doorway. His mother looking as she always had, contemplative.

“Mother, Margaret, how was the meeting?” he said, towards the open street. His mother bolstered past him in the doorway, “We shouldn’t speak openly about it John, not in the common street”, she shook her head.

John faked a response, not at all perturbed, “Yes, of course mother, sorry about that.”

His mother rested in the parlor and Dixon brought her some tea.

Margaret got up to John at the door, and her eyes smiled well beyond her lips, “Hello, my dear,” She brushed a kiss on his cheek, as she brushed past him, he turned instantly and grabbed at her arm, keeping her in the entryway away from his mother’s gaze. His lips brushed hers in a needy way, the door closing behind them and Margaret felt lightly flushed, John held her to him, dropping his hat from his hand.

They parted, moments later, and John grinned happily. Margaret looked at him sweetly, “I should go out more often it seems,” 

John chuckled, “Please do, it gives me reason to pine for your return.” Margaret giggled under her breath.

“Do what do I owe such affection, then?” Margaret queried.

“I am taking you out for a spring picnic, its all been arranged”, John said beaming.

Margaret looked to the windows, “I think it is a lovely day for it, when can we leave”

“Now, if that suits you.” John replied. Margaret’s hand reassuringly squeezed his arm.

John picked up the rather hefty basket and held it to him, as he escorted Margaret out the door.

“We will be back soon mother,” he called to her, through the open door.  Then promptly closed the door behind them.

John and Maragret strolled down the sidewalk and towards the hilly woods above the factories of Milton. John had toured this section many times before on his thoughtful walks and he found a lovely tree to post under. You could see most of Milton from up on that roost, and the clouds were gathering playfully about the sunshine now when they crested the hill. A spring breeze played Margaret’s skirts, and she spun a bit enjoying herself. John set the basket down, unraveled the blanket and sat down, watching her. He opened up the basket and tore off a bit of bread chewing it quietly as she danced.

“Its such a beautiful day, John. Thank you for doing this,” she came to sit next to him. Smiling with her bright eyes and noble heart. He felt the draw to kiss her again, but instead looked down and cleared his throat.

“Are you hungry?” John asked her. Margaret looked to the basket, “I will be, but not right now. I am too full of this wonderful air,” She breathed it in and tipped her head back letting the break in the clouds coat her face in sunlight. Her eyelids closed, John moved to kiss her again, his lips just skirting along her, as they moved over her cheek and down her neck. Margaret momentarily startled, looked at him, “What are you, doing?” she asked giggling.

“Trying to kiss my wife, is that a problem?” John asked, his eyes shyly smiling, as he looked at her. Margaret threw her arms around his neck and pulled him down to the ground. He chuckled and kissed her again, deepening it, his need growing and shrinking in intervals he no longer could deny himself. Margaret felt her passions rising as well, but she knew this was an open place and not discreet.

Despite that they both kept kissing and then both flopped down on their backs looking up at the tree foliage blowing in the breeze. A greyish cloud passed over the hill, and John looked over at Margaret his hand on his chest, sighing happily, “Margaret, I love you so much more than I thought possible,”

Margaret watched the grey cloud move swiftly past them, looking over to him, and getting lost in those dyer blue eyes of his, “I completely understand, it is the same for me. More joy, more love, more everything.” She propped up on her elbow, hand on her cheek looking at him sweetly. John rolled to his side too, his arm reaching over her hip. The warmth of it seeping through her skirts. He moved to kiss her again, and another cloud loomed over them silencing the sunlight. A low rumble did not come from John’s chest, but from the clouds above.

Suddenly sheets of rain poured down on the happy couple’s picnic. And Margaret squeaked in alarm, Sitting up abruptly, and gathering the blankets while John scurried to close up the picnic basket, they both cowered against the trunk of the tree now, water dripping through the leaves onto both of them. They both laughed as they got soaked, and John set the basket down between them and kissed Margaret again, his hands framing her face. Margaret’s hands moved to his chest in a loving manner and the two kissed under the tree’s canopy, the drip drip drip, hitting they’re faces and getting them wet.

The cloud passed just as swiftly as it had come, within minutes and John and Margaret strolled back down the hill, a bit disheveled and considerably wetter than their adventure had started. Still in love and still just as sweetly smiling as they headed for home.

(THE END)

Taglist:

@scariusaquarius @middleearthpixie @sweetestgbye @riepu10

@legolasbadass @evenstaredits @lathalea @enchantzz

[sjmgirlie]

Cobalt Blue 🦋

So I was doing a bit of a ACOWAR re-read and found something interesting. When the autumn, and spring courts and human troops come into the final battle scene, Grayson’s family crest is cobalt.

“And one… one of mortal men in iron armour. Bearing a cobalt flag with striking badger. Graysen’s crest” ACOWAR page 623.

So Elain wearing the cobalt dress in ACOMAF might have been in relation to Graysen, BUT, we know Azriels siphons are the same colour. Could this be foreshadowing that Elain’s love interest when she was a human was Graysen, and then Azriel when she’s fae?

I’m not going to get into the discourse with Lucien being her mate. Because that could still be end game for all we know. But I truly think there would have to be so much retcon to make us forget 4 books of moments with Elain and Azriel and basically none with Elain and Lucien (he isn’t even around half the time). Like I would be chocked that Azriel was even dragged into Elucien to only complicate the plot more. They already had a complication with Graysen. And Azriel has been dragged around with Mor enough as well. But I noticed people like to say Lucien saying that he’s not always there to see his mate with distain in his voice is the same as Cassian about Nesta. But we forget that Cassian went to the Archeron estate in his bonus for ACOMAF and was about to kiss Nesta until she kneed him in the sensitive area. So ya… he didn’t want to talk about it. We don’t get bonus context why Lucien says that. Needless to say Lucien has no cobalt.

Anyways, I know Gwyn as a priestess also has an invoking stone that she wears, so I went searching to see if we get any information about the colour in ACOSF. Because regardless if I’m Eriel leaning, I still want to get all the facts straight. So I found the passage:

“Gwyn’s eyes matched her stone almost perfectly, right down to the shadows that now veiled her expression” ACOSF page 167

so still blue, because she has teal eyes, but not the specific blue that was used between Az-Elain-Graysen. And why is it important? Because Elain CHOSE to be graysen’s fiancé. She wanted to marry him even after turning fae. Choice is a reoccurring theme with Elain.

Now you might think, hey, this imagery doesn’t really matter. But the flowers, flames and night sky on the cabinet WERE important. SJM had to retcon the flames for Nesta with silver flame power in order to change Lucien being her mate. Also works because Cassian has red siphons though. Elain is correlated to flowers and automatically people think spring court or something. I don’t agree, because there are flowers in all courts, and spring is the only one where they are just there all the time. Elain is a GARDENER, her love of flowers is past aesthetics. It would be like saying Nesta should be at Day court because she loves reading and that’s where all the massive libraries are (Nesta would love it though).

Anyways, I personally don’t think the cobalt blue being the family crest for Graysen and siphon colour for Azriel is a fluke. I think it alludes to something. But, as all theories, it could be wrong.

The fact that Feysand, Nessian, Eriel and Vassien having titles between them also isn’t a fluke. This is another form of imagery that alludes to something. But again, maybe Sarah has some retcon to do. We really don’t know 100%, but with how ACOTAR has been set up, it feels to me it’s at least leaning this way.

[acourtofthought]

About who MC of the next book will be....I honestly agree with you. I mean, taking out ship discourse, all the arguments I've seen to support Az being the MC for the next ACOTAR book are using points from the CC series. But guess what....I've never read CC! I don't know what the heck a Starsword is or whatever connection that has to Bryce or whatever. And I bet there are plenty of people who've only read ACOTAR. (1/2)

Happy Saturday!!

I have found, not just in the book world, that people struggle to think outside of what they know.

For example, I remember getting into an argument with my mother who had been a teacher. Two years ago, my kids school announced that in two weeks time, the teachers would be getting a day off for a mental health day and I was discussing how that is inconvenient for the parents.

I know how hard teachers work, I truly do, But around here, children are expected to go to school 180 days and as parents, they plan on their children being in school as scheduled. So it's very difficult for a working parent to suddenly make plans to keep their children at home outside of the already "budgeted" for sick days, snow days, etc. It's an extra day where a working parent either can't be present for their employer or they need to pay for childcare.

But my stance upset my mother because she thought I wasn't respecting how hard she worked (even though she had retired so it was a moot point), that parents should be expected to take care of their own children.

I wasn't arguing against the fact that teachers worked hard or that parents shouldn't be responsible, just that it did put working parents in a difficult situation that they hadn't been expecting. But she was only focused on what she knew as a teacher and not how she might have felt as a working parent who lost income by this surprise mental health day.

When it comes to the fandom, I think there's a bit of that mentality because the fandom thinks in terms of what they know because they are in the fandom. Understandable but I do think it's important to step back and remember the many people who aren't immersed in the world of SJM in the same way. Something you understand with not having read CC.

Yes, there was a bit of buildup for Az's future story in SF (his name was mentioned often but that doesn't equal buildup, it simply means he shared dialogue and Cassian's plotlines). Hell Emerie was mentioned 421 times and no one is claiming she's getting the next book.

But it's not just about SF or even the crossover which happened months after SF. It's about the ACOTAR series in it's entirety (something I think fans forget when they focus only on SF) and there has been SOOOOOO much buildup for both Elain and Lucien. Two characters with unexplored powers. Two characters with an unaccepted mating bond that snapped. Two characters who haven't found a court to call their own. Two characters who have not gotten to share their traumas though their traumas happened on page since books 1 and 2 and beyond (versus both Az and Gwyn where we were told of their traumas after the fact. I'm not saying that lessens their traumas, simply saying we didn't experience them with the character in "real time", at least not Gwyn's trauma that was the reason for her going to the library).

We watched Lucien nearly killed by Rhys and almost killed again in the second trial, saw that he was whipped for helping Feyre, watched him being pushed down by Tamlin, read as he was forced to flee Spring, witnessed his SA by Ianthe, we witnessed his sadness over Elain and his past when Feyre slipped into his mind and he was given a POV (actually, SJM had Feyre slip into his mind on three different occasions in the actual book, that means just as much as an Az bonus), we saw his brothers try to kill him yet again, it was revealed that he has an unknown father, he met Elain's father and has untold stories with that, he developed a friendship with a female who, at the end of SF was about to be called back to Koschei, was living in the human lands but then was permanently stationed in Spring.

With Elain, she was taken against her will and forced into a Cauldron. Changed into an entirely new species. We had the chance to read how traumatic that experience was for Nesta but some do believe SJM is just going to skip over Elain's experience in favor of Az. Skip over Elain finally being able to talk about the loss of her father. Skip over Elain finally making a decision about her bond and her fiance and Az's rejection. Skip over Elain finally proving that she is capable. Skip over Elain finally finding her home.

I understand that SJM wanted to tell Nesta's story first but Nesta is also an Archeron sister. SJM has always spoken of wanting to tell the stories of these three sisters. So why would she skip over the final sister in favor of Az who the fandom knows is a capable warrior, who knows he belongs in the NC despite his struggles? Who isn't even fully aware that he has a mating bond?

Does it really seem like SJM would bench a FMC in favor of a guy? That Az's story is more important than the 24 year old who was violently taken from the life she knew and forced into a new one, where she recently lost her father and her friends and her fiance, is possibly struggling with her snapped bond and she just doesn't get a voice until Az has his story told?

This isn't meant to sound Anti Az because he deserves his HEA too, I'm just not sure his story is more important to tell than Elain's at this moment. Or even Lucien's.

Because regardless of what we learned of Az in SF or the CC (like you said, some won't read the crossover and from a publishing standpoint that means the next ACOTAR book still has to make sense for those readers), that doesn't erase what we were told of Lucien and Elain long before that.

The layout is:

Elucien bond plot introduced in 2016

Lucien being abused by Tamlin in 2016

Elain being made introduced in 2016

Lucien having to flee Spring /Koschei / Vassa / Helion as Lucien's Father / Lucien meeting Papa Archeron / Eris showing sadness over his relationship with Lucien introduced in 2017

Graysens Rejection / Seer powers Discovered / Elain killing the king / Elain's fathers death introduced in 2017

The IC needing Spring's borders protected / Lucien living with Vassa and Jurian introduced in 2018

Elain's powers gone dormant / Elain moving quietly being mentioned / Elain mourning Graysen and her father introduced in 2018

Elain's powers still dormant / Elain starting to stand up for herself / Rhys and Amren saying others have underestimated her / Elain reminding others of her trauma / Elain not fitting in with the NC / Elain being made for Spring, her scent a promise of spring / Reminder of Elain wanting to travel to the continent / More mentions of Elain moving with stealth introduced in 2021

Lucien commanding Cassian with a single word / Lucien being permanently stationed in Spring to be their eyes and ears because they need a strong ally / Lucien's "father" wanting to ally with Koschei / Lucien's friend Vassa ready to be called back to Koschei / Mor not able to get the peace treat signed in Valhallan / Lucien's brother becoming a character heavily involved in the plots and visiting the human lands where Lucien is living introduced in 2021.

Az got buildup in SF (2021) and he is part of the crossover (2024).....but she's playing catchup for him because he didn't have a lot setting him up to be an eventual MMC before that.

His newly introduced plots (of which they are still a little unclear outside the Illyrians) don't automatically take precedence over Lucien and Elain's plots. It doesn't mean she's pushing Elucien to the side in favor of Az.

It could just mean she's planning ahead for what comes after Elain and Lucien's story and the crossover isn't necessarily some sort of trump card when we have no idea exactly when or how SJM plans on introducing what happened in the CC into the ACOTAR series or when the next ACOTAR book will start on the timeline. The crossover doesn't eliminate the very real threats they were facing in their world in SF and if people are saying that she can "shelve" Elain and Lucien's stories regardless of the buildup they had in books 1, 2, 3 (etc), then why can't Az's story also be temporarily shelved regardless of the page time he got in SF / the crossover so she can first tell us Elucien's story and take us to other courts outside of the NC? Wouldn't the series ending in the NC make the most sense?

Shouldn't they deal with threats on their own world before they really start worrying about threats from outside their world?

You're right though (in regards to your second anon), whatever story she tells next is fine. But the arguments saying why it has to be Az don't make sense to me because if she could sideline Elucien then she can do the same to Az.

[the-darkestminds]

I’ve seen E/riel’s say > “that Elucien’s (book) theories all revolve around Lucien and not Elain (like how Gwynriel’s theories revolve around Azriel & not Gwyn), because she needs to leave the NC & her family to find herself and become her own person. She needs to leave her friends Nuala and Cerridwen who played a pivotal part in her healing. The rejected mating bond that's been hinted at has nothing to do with Elain. It has to do with Lucien's parents, Helion and Lady Autumn. A rejected mate bond would be a huge storyline for any book but it's going to be a side plot with the side characters involved in Lucien's storyline. Who cares about Elain being a seer or a spy when she can play the socialite trophy wife to Lucien the grand Emissary and High Lord. She can mingle and plan parties and be pretty and charming at balls because apparently she's a giant extrovert (which we have not seen). For all this discourse around an E/riel book being bad for Elain because Azriel would be the focus and not Elain, I have yet to see a plot for an elucien book that centers on Elain and not Lucien. So I find it hard to believe they actually care about Elain, when she seems like nothing more than a means to an end to give the poor ginger cinammon roll Lucien the story and ending they think he deserves. That Elain is expected to live with Jurian, who was directly responsible for her being Made, and be neighbors with Graysen. Because her mate decided that it was totally appropriate for him to be friends with both of those specimens.”

E/riel’s are acting as if we’re saying Elain needs to forget her family and she’ll never get to visit them. Feyre literally called Elain a pleasant companion and the wraith twins are being paid by Feysand to spend time with Elain. It’s literally canon. I’ve seen many Elucien’s discuss theories on Elain and her seer abilities. Her taking down Koschei, involved with Vassa, fixing/healing Spring Court. Elain being a spy doesn’t make sense given the characterization of her character. Elain does give off high society vibes. She danced and personally greeted each guest at balls. Nesta said that Elain used to enjoy balls and parties. Elain who could convince anyone to do anything with a few smiles. I do believe that Elain is an extrovert, but she’s traumatized (understandably) after being thrown into the Cauldron and everything else. I’ve never seen an Elucien call Elain a trophy wife. It’s like E/riel’s are putting words in our mouths.

I’ve seen E/riel’s talk about how Elain is so similar to Mor: bright, extroverted. But then they change it to Elain being in introvert then back to her being an extrovert, or how she’s an ambivert. They constantly change her personality and the theories about her character/their “forbidden romance” ship. If Lucien chose to live in Velaris, I could see E/riel’s throwing a fit. “He’s stalking/harassing her!” But then they criticize him for not putting in “enough effort”.

And Gwynriel’s have come up with so many theories/story arcs about Gwyn outside of Azriel. Her wielding Gwydion, her possibly finding Narben, her research on other worlds, working through her trauma, using her invoking stone, leaving the library, her sisters death.

I see this all this time anon!! Such a popular argument among Elriels that all of the stuff with Koschei and Beron and Spring all focus on Lucien and not Elain. But I don’t see it that way. I think Elriels think this because they believe Elain is happy and thriving in the Night Court. They have a difficult time imagining a scenario in which Elain leaves the NC to discover her true purpose and what she wants out of her immortal life. And I guess yeah, if Elain were truly content it would seem silly for her to leave. But is Elain’s destiny really to live in the background of Feyre’s life? No, of course not. Just like it wasn’t Nesta’s to fill whatever role Feyre could come up with once the wall came down in ACOWAR. Each sister has her own unique journey. I think it’s crazy to suggest that the mating bond between Elain and Lucien is some minor issue. This is a huge deal in sjm books, as she has made clear many times. It’s part of Elain accepting herself as Fae, coming to terms with the loss of her human fiancé and the life she imagined for herself, that she can still have an epic love despite having lost her first love. Lucien can help her do that because he’s suffered something similar. I think right now we are not seeing Elain at her best, based on what we know about how she was as a human. She could charm anyone with a single smile, beloved by everyone she meets, a ray of sunshine, etc. Is this what we see from Elain right now? No. So just because we don’t know exactly what the plot will entail doesn’t mean it’s Lucien-centered. (Although I love Lucien so much I am dying for him to at least get 50% of the POV of the next book!) I have never seen any Elucien theory reduce Elain to being a “trophy wife” so that definitely sounds made up!

Minor HOFAS Spoilers ahead!

As far as Gwyn goes, I think it’s very obvious how much more she and Azriel have in common. They both have intense trauma, they both suffer from feelings of not being worthy of love, they are both tied to the Illyrian plotline via the blood rite, they both have a connection to the multiverse (Azriel due to his interactions with the Asteri and Gwyn with her research into multiple worlds with Merrill). Add in the bonus chapter and I think it’s pretty obvious where things are headed 🤷‍♀️

Also side note, what did they expect Jurian to do to stop the king of Hybern? Jurian is a hero who has likely seen more horrors than probably any other character considering he lived as an eyeball for 500(?) years and had to watch every horrific thing Amarantha did. I think implying he’s some evil asshole is so silly. Jurian is awesome. 😤

[autumnshighlady]

I’ve Always Liked to Play With Fire (part 2)

NESTA ARCHERON X FEMALE!READER (future Neris x reader)

summary: The day after the disastrous dinner, you and Nest have a talk.

warnings: MAJOR inner circle slander, if you love Feysand and will defend them please do not read this fic for your own sanity, angst, VIOLENCE, gore, flashbacks, implied SA jokes, trauma, literally so much sadness i cried writing

word count: 4.2k

DO NOT REPOST ANYWHERE

a/n: here it is, part 2! I’m so excited for this fic, I have so many ideas. It’s getting longer and longer in my head so y’all are in for a treat! As always, if you cannot handle some anti Feysand and Inner Circle discourse then I would advise you not to read this and cause drama!

feedback is appreciated, just no hate pls! these are just my opinons, im more curious to see how you all like the writing and characterization and storylines!

part 1

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You slept fitfully that night, the events of dinner swirling around your brain. The clash of silver and violet eyes haunted your thoughts, memories of the tense atmosphere barring your mind from rest.

Part of you wished that the Night Court had entirely lived up to its reputation of cruelty, that the High Lord had just thrown you in a cell the second you were healed. You hated the politics and scheming, the fancy dinners where it was expected you had to fall to your knees and thank them for their generosity, then provide whatever they asked in return. Even Lucien was just a pawn in their games, whatever they were playing at.

And whatever it was, you vowed you wouldn’t stick around long enough to get too involved.

Nesta wasn’t at breakfast, nor did she show up for lunch. Throughout the day, you realized that you had gotten used to the female’s presence over the past few months. The space around you felt empty and lifeless, as if the warmth had been sucked out of it. But you gave her space for the first half of the day, knowing she was rattled by last night.

But you could not ignore that gnawing worry in the pit of your stomach. You were aware that if Nesta had her way, she would shut out everyone completely, but destroy herself in the process. When the sun set over the mountains in the distance, you decided to knock on her door.

“Nesta?” You said, rapping your knuckles on the wood.

No answer came, but you knew she was in there, as if you could sense her presence. Slowly, you turned the knob on the door and it clicked open, causing you to breathe a sigh of relief. If Nesta truly hadn’t wanted you to come in, the door would have been locked. So you carefully entered the room.

The eldest Archerons sister was sitting on her bed, resting against the headboard with her arms around her knees. The coronet braid had half fallen out, leaving loose strands of hair waving down her neck and shoulders. Her eyes showed no signs of the silver fire, only emptiness. She did not even turn her head to acknowledge you, just continued to stare blankly at the empty fireplace. The room was ice cold, so you grabbed a blanket from the chair and walked over. Wordlessly, you sat down next to her, tossing the blanket over her legs.

“When Feyre and Tamlin returned from Under the Mountain, there was a dinner to celebrate their victory.” You said quietly. “My family was invited. I remember sitting at the dining table, surrounded by food and music. Everyone was celebrating, except your sister. She tried, I’ll give her that, but even I could tell she was miserable. And who could blame her? We were all told what happened in that place, what she had to go through. She was wasting away when she got back to Spring, and when Tamlin locked her up I honestly couldn’t blame her for wanting to get away.”

Nesta blinked once, her only acknowledgement at your words.

“None of us could fathom why she wanted to stay in the Night Court, though.” You continued. “We had heard loud and clear what Rhysand did to her under the mountain, how he twisted her broken arm to force her to make that deal. How he drugged her almost every night and made her dance like a whore for him to piss off Tamlin. I understand that he had a role to play to survive, I cannot blame him for that. But what he did to your sister went beyond that, and none of us understood why she would willingly seek sanctuary with him unless he was forcing her to. That’s why Tamlin went after her so persistently, why he made that alliance with Hybern.

“We were furious, and scared. Tamlin risked our lives just to try and get your sister back by opening up his doors to Hybern. She was worth it to him, but not for us. We never asked for it, but we paid the price. We were forced to live amongst them, tiptoeing around in fear that one wrong look at a Hybern soldier and we’d lose our heads. When Feyre returned to Spring with Tamlin, we had hope again. Hope that, whatever had happened between her and Tamlin, she would maybe try to protect us, the innocent people who asked for no part in this war.”

Your throat closed up. You coughed once, clearing it as you prepared to delve into the most painful parts of your memory.

“But we were wrong,” You continued. “Feyre had no intention of helping anyone in Spring, merely getting back at the High Lord. A few days after Feyre’s return, I was at the manor helping my father collect reports when I overheard a conversation between the priestess, your sister, and Tamlin. That was when I found out what had been done to you and Elain, how Ianthe had given you two to Hybern to be turned into Fae. Believe me, I was happy when Ianthe returned from a stroll in the woods with a shattered hand.

“We felt better when Feyre was back. Tamlin had gotten what he wanted, and Feyre seemed like the type of female who would defend innocent people. For a moment, I thought that maybe the two of them would be able to find a way around Hybern’s agreement, and stop them from taking over the continent. But we were wrong. Feyre valued her vengeance, which I respect. But Tamlin wasn’t the one who paid the price for it, like she wanted him to. She could not separate the people of Spring Court from their leader who had wronged her. It was us who were slaughtered, whose leader was so broken that he did not even try to fight for us. And when things got bad, after Feyre was satisfied that she had torn the Spring Court apart, she ran right back to the safety of Rhysand’s arms.”

A tear fell down your cheek, plopping onto the soft blanket. You weren’t sure how much Nesta knew of your story, how much Lucien or Cassian had told her. Hell, you weren’t even sure about how much she knew about Under the Mountain, based on the way she stiffened when you mentioned what Rhysand had done. Taking a deep breath, you continued.

“The waiting was the worst part. Once we found out what Feyre had done, we knew we were vulnerable. Hybern soldiers went from village to village, slaughtering and pillaging. They left ours for last. We could not run, we had nowhere to go. So we could only wait, sitting there for the other shoe to drop. After a week, they came in the middle of the night. My mother rushed into my room, shaking me awake. I could hear the screams outside, the sounds of swords piercing flesh. But my mother was calm as ever. She stroked my hair and kissed my forehead, telling me how much she loved me. She—”

Your chest heaved in an attempt to contain your sobs. Dragging each word out was like running a knife along an open wound, and every instinct told you to stop, to repress it and never think about it again, but you kept going. For some reason, you felt like Nesta needed to hear it, needed to know that she was not alone in her struggles.

“She gave me a small vial with clear liquid and told me to drink it,” You said. “I asked her why, and she said it would make everything go away. I knew it was poison, aimed to bring a quick but painless death. My mother knew that there was no escaping the Hybern massacre, no way we could get out of it. So she wanted me to die in the easiest way possible, to save me from the suffering that was bound to await me if I lived. So I gulped it down, trying not to cry as she hugged me one last time before grabbing a knife from the kitchen and storming out into the clearing where the fighting was.

“I should have stayed in my room. But I crept out after her a few minutes later, wanting to see if anyone I knew was escaping. I peeked out the window, and saw my mother standing over my father’s lifeless body, kitchen knife in hand. I barely recognized him – half his leg was missing, his face so covered in gore it may have been impossible to identify him if not for the broach on his jacket from Tamlin. My mother swung the knife blindly, screaming in rage. She did not know how to fight, but she tried. I saw as they sliced her chest open, laughing as her blood coated their uniforms. I vomited, which was my biggest mistake. Some of the poison had worked its way into my system, enough to make me groggy. But the rest of the dose I had thrown up, losing my chance at a peaceful death.

“A Hybern soldier heard me, and broke into our house with my mother’s blood still staining his hands. They leered as they beat me bloody, arguing over who would get first turn with me. I begged the Mother to kill me swiftly, so I wouldn’t have to endure their torture. They used their first and their knives, laughing like it was a game. Before they could kill me, I heard a vicious scream. My best friend, Sapphyra, had burst into the room looking for me. She was being trained as a sentry, so she knew how to fight. She didn’t hesitate before swinging her sword at the Hybern soldiers, killing one swiftly before luring them out of the house. I couldn’t speak, if I could I’d have begged her not to do something so reckless. But she lured them out of the house, and they forgot about me. I could hear her, she fought like a lion against them, but there were too many. Through the hole in the wall, I saw as they swarmed her like flies, ripping her head off her body and putting it on a spike. Then everything faded to black, and I woke up in the Night Court.”

You felt thin fingers gently graze your hand, as. Inhaling deeply, you looked down and saw Nesta’s hand gently covering your own. She said nothing, just placed her hand on yours. You almost crumbled apart right then and there at the tenderness from the female who was said to be cold as ice.

“I do not know what happened between you and your sister,” You said carefully. “But I lost everything, everyone, because she decided to take revenge on an entire court for the actions of two fae. I cannot stomach the sight of her sitting here happily, on a mountain of wealth and surrounded by people who have told her that she deserves to be High Lady, after what she did to me and my people. I cannot tolerate being judged by them all just because I am from Spring Court. If she wants to hate Tamlin, fine, but when she looks at me all she sees is him. Just because the only crime I committed was residing in his court.”

You didn’t expect Nesta to say anything. You weren’t sure where she stood with her sister, if she’d try and justify her actions. But the female turned her gaze towards you for the first time – there was still some emptiness to her eyes, but something else was written across her features.

“I am sorry,” She said. “I did not know. Any of that, frankly. All Cassian told me was that you were Lucien’s friend from the Spring Court, we presumed you had gotten injured going off on your own.”

Despite the pain in your chest, you laughed heartlessly. “Of course they conveniently left out the details,” You snorted. “Can’t have people knowing the consequences of their High Lady’s actions.”

“They seem to do that a lot.” Nesta said bitterly.

You took a deep breath, bracing yourself to be lashed out at for what you were about to say. “Nesta, what happened?”

She tensed again beside you, and you prepared to be told to fuck off, that it wasn’t your business. You could tell she contemplated it for a split second, but then her gaze softened as she looked at you.

“The Inner Circle hates me for a number of reasons,” She began. “When we were young, my father made a stupid business move and we lost all our fortune. The creditors ransacked our place and forced us to move into a small cottage. Soon after more came and broke my father’s leg in front of us and left him crippled. We had no money, no support. So when Feyre was 14, she went into the woods and started hunting for us. It’s what kept us from starvation. I did nothing to stop her, but neither did Elain, which the Night Court seems to forget. I didn’t want her to hunt, I wanted us to starve, to force our useless father to do something to try and save us, rather than sit in his cot all day. I hated him with every fiber of my being, but Feyre kept hunting.

“But somehow, everyone forgets who prepared the food Feyre caught. Who washed the clothes, kept the cottage tidy and running. Feyre never cooked, she can barely heat up soup. I planned to marry myself off, to lighten the burden for the rest of my family. But then Feyre killed that fae wolf, and Tamlin took her away. I was so confused as to why nobody remembered it, then I realized it was some sort of magic that hadn’t worked on me. We got our fortune back, thanks to Tamlin, and one of the first things I did was hire a merchant to take me into the woods. I tried to find Feyre, I would have offered myself in her place, but we never got through the wall.

“And then somehow we got dragged into all this faerie shit. I was forced to become fae, and then sent here to adjust. I spent my entire time trying to make sure Elain didn’t fling herself off the mountainside. She was so miserable, a shell of who she was before. The inner circle gave her as much time to adjust as she needed, but they never extended the same courtesy to me.”

Nesta laughed bitterly. “I don’t need to tell you about what happened in the War. I’m sure you already know. After it was over, everyone acted like everything was fine. Elain became her perky, delicate self again and the celebrations began. But I did not want to celebrate, it did not feel like a victory. My father died, knowing I hated him and he still tried to protect me and tell me he loved me. There was so much death that day, so many families torn apart and they acted like nothing happened.

“I got my own place, a slummy house outside the city. Feyre and Rhys paid for it. I would have, if I had my own money, but I didn’t. I suspect when my father died his wealth went right into their pockets, when some of it should have gone to me. I started drinking and fucking my way around Velaris. Nobody checked up on me, even Elain, even though I spent weeks glued to her side because I was so afraid for her. When I was checked on, it was at those ridiculous dinners they hosted, where I was watched like a hawk. Amren asked about my powers at every opportunity, as if I hadn’t given enough already. They treated me like a ticking time bomb, so I became one. They’ve all had 500 years to learn how to cope with war. I had months before they decided my drinking and whoring was too much. They staged an intervention, and offered me a ‘choice’. I could go to the human lands, or train at the House of Wind with Cassian.”

“But fae are persecuted and killed in the human lands,” You said. “It would be a death sentence.”

“Trust me, they were well aware of that.” Nesta laughed bitterly. “While they intervened, Elain helped pack up my house. They seized it from me, and I was forced to come here. I never wanted to learn how to fight. There are other ways to heal, to be strong. But my way of healing was too embarrassing, too ugly for them. I didn’t spend hours poetically gazing out a window in silence like Elain. So now I’m stuck here, a discarded thing they didn’t want to deal with.”

Nesta’s eyes were glazed with tears, and you couldn’t tell if you were going to be sick or go on a murderous rampage. Mor and Cassian consumed 8 bottles of wine together at dinner last night, and you didn’t doubt that the Illyrians spent much of their younger years fucking everything in sight. They’ve all done what Nesta did, yet she was being punished for it. You wanted to scream in frustration, let the world know what the leaders of this court put Nesta through.

“We have to get out of here.” You murmured. “We can’t stay locked up in this place.”

“And go where?”

“Anywhere.”

Nesta snorted humourlessly. “A nice sentiment,” She said. “But neither of us is making it down those steps. Even if we did, we wouldn’t get far.”

“We’d need help.” You said, picking at a string on the blanket.

Nesta sighed and relaxed back into the pillows, abandoning her defensive crouched position. Her arm brushed yours as she laid back, sending tingles up your skin – it was like being touched with a melody of ice and fire, mixed together.

“As much as you claim to be friends with Lucien, I doubt he’d risk his neck like that to save you.” She pointed out, tipping her head back. “He’s mated to Elain after all, if he thought helping us would put her in danger, all his friendship with you would go out the window, I promise.”

You winced. She was right, as much as you loved Lucien as your best friend, he was a mated male now. You didn’t know how it felt to be mated, but you had heard of other’s experiences. As much as Lucien would want to help you, he wouldn’t risk putting Elain in harm's way. Suddenly, an idea struck you.

“What about his brother, Eris?” You asked, leaning back to rest your neck against the pillows like Nesta had. She turned her head to face you.

“Seriously?” She asked.

“I’m serious!” You insisted, turning your head towards her as well. Your faces were only a foot apart, but you tried not to think about that. “The Night Court hates him. Who better to help us than someone Rhysand cannot stand?”

“Who says he will even help? Do you even know him?”

“Sort of. I spent some time in Autumn visiting Lucien. Out of all his brothers, Eris was the only one who treated me like a living creature, not an object. He was decent and respectable enough.”

You left out the part about the massive crush you had developed on your best friend’s older brother over the years, how you got butterflies every time that cold gaze would soften for a split second when he saw you wandering about the Autumn Court.

“I haven’t heard good things about him,” Nesta said bitterly. “Feyre says he left Mor to die in the woods after they were supposed to be engaged.”

“And Feyre probably tells other courts that you’re an ungrateful whore who is trying to steal from her and Rhysand to make them look bad,” You scoffed. “And that I’m some spy from the Spring Court who is planning the murder of all Night Court babies. So I think it’s safe to say that if they’re wrong about us, they may be wrong about Eris too.”

You felt Nesta flinch at your words, wondering if maybe you had gone too far. But she did not snap back, or get angry with you. She simply sighed, blinking once. Her hair was falling into her face, disheveled as opposed to its usual neat braid. You liked it, the messiness that made her look more relaxed rather than on edge, waiting to strike at whoever glanced the wrong way. There was a softness to her that you were seeing, a cold heart being thawed like the snow on the first day of spring.

“He may only help just to make us a part of whatever game he’s playing and use us against the Night Court.” Nesta warned, looking into your eyes.

“I know,” You said softly. “I cannot deny that he is unpredictable and scheming. But it’s a better alternative than being stuck here having to bend to your sister and her mate’s every whim.”

Silence overcame the room for a moment, as if Nesta was contemplating her choices. It was easy for you to decide which option you’d take, you had no personal ties to the Night Court’s inner circle. But Nesta did – as much as she and her sisters were not on good terms, at the end of the day you knew she still loved them in her own way.

“How would we do it?” She asked after a few seconds. “I doubt we can send him a letter and ask him to drop by without Rhysand or his dogs finding out.”

“We do exactly as they tell us to.” You began carefully. “You train with Cassian, I’ll tell them what they want to hear. We make them see what they want to see – a good female who heals the way they want by training into a warrior, and a Spring Court female who is so grateful for their hospitality they will do anything they ask. Then maybe, we’ll find out what they’re playing at. Once they let us in on everything, or you at least, we have a much better chance of seeing Eris. If Lucien is to be believed, they’re working with him on something.”

Nesta narrowed her eyes. “Are you sure you’re not their little puppet sent to coerce me into obeying them?” She hissed.

You would have believed the venom in her voice to be serious, if not for the gleam in her gray eyes and the slight twitch of her lips.

“You have figured me out, Nesta Archeron.” You sighed dramatically. “I actually am Rhysand’s personal spy. Darn, you got me.”

She laughed, and it was the most beautiful sound you had ever heard. It was like a breeze through an old forest, mystical and echoing. For the first time since you had met her, that laugh was genuine.

“We appeared as quite a united front at dinner,” Nesta pointed out. “They’ll be suspicious if we suddenly go along with everything.”

You hummed, contemplating for a moment. “Maybe we can pretend to fight. Some time when Cassian or Azriel is here since they’ll definitely go telling everyone else about it. We keep our distance from each other, at least when they have eyes on us.”

Those slate coloured eyes that were normally like chips of ice looked saddened momentarily. “I don’t want to do that.” She admitted quietly, voice barely above a whisper.

“I don’t either,” You choked out. “But we can’t raise any suspicions.”

Without thinking, you reached forward and tucked a strand of hair behind Nesta’s ear. She did not flinch, or harden her gaze. She just kept staring at you, looking sad.

“How will we make our plans then?” Nesta asked. “I doubt Azriel is Rhysand’s spymaster for nothing.”

“The books,” You said after thinking for a moment. We leave notes for each other in the books. Smutty romance ones that Azriel wouldn’t be caught dead picking up.”

Nesta chuckled again, and your heart fluttered. Mother above, you could get used to hearing that sound.

“Alright.” She said, “I’m in.”

“We will get through this.” You promised, grabbing her hand. “The next few weeks will be shit. I’ve grown rather used to your company, but if we want out of here we have to be smart.”

“Then we begin tomorrow.” Nesta said. “But could you maybe… stay here for the night? If we have to act like we don’t like each other in the next while…”

Her words trailed off, but you knew what she meant. From the way she averted her gaze, you could tell she felt silly asking this of you. So you gently stroked the back of her hand with your thumb.

“Of course.” You said.

Wordlessly, you got up and grabbed your nightgown from your room, giving Nesta time to change into hers. When you returned to her room, she was settling underneath the covers. You blew out the candle and crawled into the space next to her, laying your head onto the soft pillows. For a minute, the two of you laid there in the dark, facing each other and saying nothing.

“(Y/N)?” Nesta’s voice was quiet.

“Yes?” You replied, already drowsy with sleep.

“I’m glad you are here.”

“Me too.”

***************

taglist (comment if you want to be added): @queercontrarian @kitkat-writes-stuff @moonfawnx @sevikas-whore @weird-and-wise @jemandderkeinenusernamenfindet @kingshitonly @ladyofcherries @eerievixen @readingwritingwatching @peacecoffeeandflowers @a-frog-with-a-laptop @shadowqueen25

[freyjas-musings]

So I posted a funny reel about Feyre and Lucien returning to Night after destroying the spring court on my IG (she was pretty clever in the way she executed the entire thing anyone who wants to argue can do so with the wall)

This one moral police came into the comment section about how I have "Forgotten" the injustice that was done to the civilians of spring court.... I have deleted the comment but it had me thinking ...

Here is the deal and I want everyone to please pay attention .... " Spring Court" isn't REAL .... TAMLIN isn't real .... FEYRE AND LUCIEN ARENT REAL

These are fictional books with fictional scenarios.... don't be a weirdo who judges real people based on humorous takes on fictional characters and situations unless its a social issue which affects real people ... And no I am not offended or frustrated ... I am amused ... It takes a lot more than that to affect me ... the locus of my identity is interior to me ... 😅😅

I see this with other things too.... If you dislike Azriel you are a feminist ... Nope, not true at all especially if you are an Elain apologist at the same time ... You can empathise with Elain and her behaviour towards Lucien and Nesta based on her trauma while simultaneously disregarding Azriel's unresolved childhood trauma of 500 years and the affect its had on his behaviour?...

That's not Feminism that's just an ordinary stan who doesn't like Az ... Please feel free to leave the word Feminism out of it ... Hate Az for the character traits and own it as a personal preference... its not going to make it any less relevant ... That's totally justifiable (don't attach pro women agenda thats when it becomes weird and politically incorrect)

"Choice" is another famous word in this fandom ... I don't know how young you kids are but as someone who has had multiple relationships before settling in with my husband I can tell choices change for different reasons ... so the entire discourse on choice at a given time is already a failed concept... That isn't Feminism and most certainly not when the same bunch weaponize another character's SA ... you are just an ordinary toxic child throwing a tantrum trying to manipulate your way into making your point 😅

Don't use fictional nonsense to judge real people its stupid and borderlines on delusional

[bookishfeylin]

At any rate, I need y'all to explain how, exactly, Feyre destroying the Spring Court was meant as punishment for Tamlin if his people weren't hurt/suffering from it in some way. It's reiterated in every book that he despises being a High Lord, so it's not like losing his position and power was what bothered him so much. So what was Feyre hoping would bother him???

She talks about painting the walls of Rosehall red... what did y'all think that meant??? Feyre tells Lucien that she didn't want to kill Tamlin because she thought his court falling apart around him was a better punishment... And Tamlin was explicitly was upset at the High Lord's meeting because of the state of his people, mentioning their villages being nothing but ashes now.

Feyre wanted to use innocent people's suffering to punish their leader. Rather than like, kill Tamlin or something else reasonable, she took her anger out on innocent people. She wanted to use their death and displacement, their pain and suffering, to punish him. And as much as I love Feyre, and as much as I believe it'd be better if Feyre had killed him or something in ACOWAR, it's wholly sadistic to do that innocent people. It's the white woman syndrome all over again.

[blackjackkent]

Quick camp chats before heading out on the road again. (I'm thinking about making straight for the creche actually, since Rakha definitely thinks it's the most important thing to do right now, and then circling back for final nautiloid map stuff on the way to the Underdark.)

Rakha questioned Gale much more thoroughly about Karsus and the fall of Netheril; even though it happened a long time ago, she's still hungry for any new knowledge, more pieces in her picture of the world. I think this is probably not the last time that he ends up just discoursing to her on some random subject or another; if there's one thing Gale can't resist, it's an attentive student, even if it's one fully capable of ripping his throat out in the wrong moment. He also explained, much to her disappointment, that there's no way she would be strong enough on her own to channel the Weave as they did together - that it requires intense study even for someone with a natural magical gift like her. She's quietly bummed about this; she was taken with the idea of showing it to Wyll.

Having talked to Dammon, we have the option to ask Karlach directly about the engine in camp. She's not willing to give the full story until the Paladins are dead, but does explain that it prevents her from touching anyone and how upset that makes her, that she can't have a hug. Rakha spends a lot of time thinking about this afterwards. She has had sex with Lae'zel and she has had Astarion's weight on her as he sucked the blood at her neck, but beyond this, her experience with physical contact of any sort is... limited. But Karlach's longing for it is obvious. It must be comforting, she decides. Like the blanket of the Weave around her. Like Wyll's hand on her arm was, last night.

Astarion is indignant about Gale's orb: "To think, Gale's had this devastating orb within himself the entire time, and only just mentioned it? Who'd keep a secret like that from his friends? You can't trust anyone these days." It takes Rakha a little while to work out that he is being ironic. His response to the question "What do you think we'll find at Moonrise Towers?" amuses me, because his phrasing feels deliberately calibrated for Rakha specifically: "Who knows? Drow? Mind flayers? Death? Hopefully not ours. But maybe answers, if we can convince the right people to talk." Death and answers are Rakha's two favorite things in the whole world.

Wyll is super cute and kinda shy. "Since the party, I've had a spring in my step, and I've got you to thank." Sadly none of the (positive) dialogue options quite fall in Rakha's blunt conversational wheelhouse, but we'll go with, "It was a lovely evening. I hope we can share even more." Because it's true - talking to him was the best part of the party for her by far. She doesn't fully understand her own feelings, but she is realizing she feels better near him than otherwise. He smiles. "I'm sure we will. And when the time comes... I've got something in mind." He raises a hand to forestall her as she opens her mouth to ask questions. "Now, now - no prodding. You don't want to spoil the surprise. But I'll say this... it'll be worth the wait." The odd sense of pleasant anticipation with which Rakha receives this information is a rather new concept for her. She isn't sure what he means... but she is curious to find out.

He also tells her a little bit about growing up as a Duke's son in Baldur's Gate. Most of his descriptions of court and nobility are somewhat lost on her-- more interesting is his description of the transition into becoming Blade of Frontiers. She asks if it was much of a change. "Yes and no," he answers. "Father taught me the four pillars of power - courage, insight, strategy, justice. He reckoned I'd follow in his footsteps, first as a Fist Marshal, then as a Duke. Vanquish evil, maintain order, save the world. But a duke makes bedfellows with more monsters than he slays. Father called it 'diplomacy'. I called it 'hypocrisy.' In the frontiers, there is no posturing, no diplomacy. I slay monsters; I don't consort with them, even if I might look like one." As usual, Rakha tucks away these foundational tenets of his philosophy to consider for herself. Courage, insight, strategy, justice. None of them mean as much to her as violence, hunger, survival, death. And yet they are, perhaps, something to aspire to, if she should ever learn to control the beast... She wonders about that last statement, though. Wyll claims not to consort with monsters - but he travels with Astarion. He travels with her. He travels with Gale and that bomb in his chest. There are many in their group who could be called monsters. What does he see when he looks at them? Does he see his presence here as just another sort of hypocrisy, deep down?

[foxcort]

dni if you're a zionist / pls check out the BDS movement. if you have the means to pls consider donating to IRUSA or follow THIS link to a post with vetted gfms to help families leave rafah.

hey im gisele :) a multishipper and writer. mostly i write for acotar with an emphasis on feylin and a number of nesta ships. there will be discourse here and the occasional anti/critical rhysand, feysand, the ic and sjm content. i have no problem if you love those things and still want to follow me, just please be respectful and i shall do the same. and remember if i'm not your cup of tea it's easier and kinder to block me than it is to send anon hate or resort to bullying. 💚 / (banner template by @cafekitsune / dividers by saradika)

things and topics you'll find here : an unapologetic love for tamlin, nesta and lucien + the perpetual mourning of feyre archeron's human heart + frustration (and most times irritation) for the lost potential of rhysand and his inner cave + endless contempt for sarah janet.

non-acotar related things and topics : dragon age, atla, hotd (mostly the greens), asoiaf/got, the last kingdom, resources (writing help, fanfic dividers, etc.)

spring memories | feylin a heart of scales and storms | feylin, #mermay2023 a bond of thorns | feylin, #tamlinweek2023 untitled brilin drabble #1 | brilin shapeshifter | neslin, #tamlinweek2024 muse | feylin, #feylinweek2024 a prick of the thorn | feylin, #feylinweek2024 moonvine | feylin, #feylinweek2024 comforter | a drabble(ish) collection of my favorite feyre and nesta ships based off these prompts by dont-call-my-name-alejandro.

a court of ice and fire | a collection of fics set in an asoiaf au

wildfire | eris vanserra-centric, #erisweek2023

[brooklynislandgirl]

@lokitheliesmith {{from here courtesy of the legacy editor}}

Her brother nods in polite reverence, an assent to her wishes, but does not actually sit until the Princess herself does. He takes his place beside her and for a moment one sibling's knee brushes the other. Another sign that he's taken with their foreign noble; Andrew was always excruciatingly aware of everything. She will be such a púca about when they are safely entrenched back in the privacy of their dwellings. Perhaps tweak his patience enough to make him threaten to consign her to the sea. "I presume not to dictate a man's business, but I thank you most humbly." He looks to his hands a moment. "Is is so rare we have new company." She slants a tiny glance at the Princess, for all the world wishing she could tell the great lady that her sibling tends to keep to himself and doesn't court many a friend on this side of the sea. Spring greenery clashes against emerald as the women's gazes seem to find one another. And those very branches might have gone up in flames as modesty sparks fire in her cheeks as the Princess extends the Prince's complimentary discourse. She has no way of knowing if it is true, but she also has no reason to doubt the woman. "M-my great honour, your Highness," she replies and its all she can do not to be beside herself. The tea is a merciful lifeline. "If you permit me know some of your tastes. I would hate to suggest something that might fall far from your favour." And have the Princess feel she is unworthy. A glance is spared toward her brother who seems to be watching the ladies as he would horseflesh at the markets, seeking compatible spirit and temperament. Not flattering and not exactly true but near enough. "I could not think to speak on such things, your Highness. Things are far different back home." Andrew pats her hand. Head bowed, attention focused on his glove, she nods. "Yes, my lady. The harp as well, if you prefer. I should be quite happy to play for you. Is there any certain piece you enjoy, or perhaps another interest that you favour?"

[colorlesschristmastree]

24 and 10 😈

10. "Worst part of Fanon"

All the Rhysand's sister was [x character's] mate takes and theories, please let that girl rest. No she is not azriel's mate, no she isn't tamlin's. Free her. Oh also the way the a lot of people treat Cassian like a himbo or dumb or less intelligent than Nesta. Oh oh oh and the people who pretend Feyre can't paint. God they irritate the life out of me.

24. "Topic that brings up the most rancid discourse"

Just the majority of discussions surrounding Rhys utm, Feyre in the spring court in acowar, and the elriel vs gwynriel vs elucien discourse. I've seen that get kinda nasty too.

[graysengross]

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The city's arts scene is as dynamic as its history. The Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts hosts a wide range of performances, showcasing everything from ballet to jazz. Meanwhile, smaller galleries like the Phillips Collection offer a more intimate artistic experience with works from famous impressionists and modern artists.

Outdoor Activities and Green Spaces

Amidst the urban landscape, Washington DC boasts beautiful green spaces, providing a breath of fresh air. Rock Creek Park, one of the oldest national parks in the U.S., offers miles of trails, picnic areas, and even a planetarium. For a more structured outdoor experience, the United States Botanic Garden displays an impressive collection of plants and flowers in meticulously designed settings.

Culinary Delights and International Cuisine

Washington DC's food scene is a reflection of its diverse population. From high-end restaurants serving global cuisines to local eateries offering American classics, the city caters to all taste buds. Don't miss the chance to try some local blue crab, a staple in the Mid-Atlantic region.

Engaging in Political Discourse

As the nation's capital, Washington DC is the perfect place to engage with American politics. Take a tour of the U.S. Capitol, where you can learn about the legislative process and maybe even witness a live Congress session. For those interested in the judicial branch, visiting the Supreme Court offers insights into the legal backbone of the country.

Seasonal Events and Festivals

The city's calendar is packed with events and festivals throughout the year. One of the highlights is the National Cherry Blossom Festival in spring, where you can see the city transformed by blooming cherry trees. Other events, like the Fourth of July celebrations and the Smithsonian Folklife Festival, offer unique experiences that are quintessentially Washington DC.

Conclusion

Things to do in Washington DC are as diverse and numerous as the city's residents. Whether you're looking to dive into the rich tapestry of America's history, engage with the arts, explore beautiful landscapes, or savor international flavors, Washington DC offers a rich palette of activities and sights. Plan your visit well, and you'll find that the nation's capital is a place of both monumental events and everyday pleasures, perfect for any traveler looking to enrich their experience.

[acourtofthought]

Honestly I hope Elucien is next so we can finally get the E/riel's off our backs (and hopefully out of the fandom since they're sOoOoOo against it) for good. Idk if I can do another 2+ years of discourse this intense kgjdn its making fandom and the stories straight up not fun anymore and it feels like there's no way to block it out??

I guess either way, whether it's Gwynriel or Elucien, we'd get some sort of relief from the craziness in the fandom.

But personally I do think it's time for Elucien's story. SJM has been building not only their relationship but their personal journey's since ACOMAF (2016) and it's time. It's time to decide Tamlin and Springs fate (probably happening in an Elucien book). It's time to reveal Helion as Lucien's father. It's time to free Vassa and the girls that have been trapped since ACOMAF (but we only learned about in ACOWAR). It's time for us to hear in Elain's own words how she feels about being made, the loss of her father, her mating bond, having stabbed someone, her powers, etc. It's time for Lucien to have a real home of his own. It's time for Elain to leave the Court where her sisters call her a dog and a pleasant companion. Where she's prevented from doing more by others. Where she had to remind her own sisters she's not a child to be fought over and they don't get to tell her what she can or can't do. I do realize I'm biased however I am surprised that anyone wouldn't think Elain is overdue for getting a POV.

Those things have gone on so long with no resolution that it's starting to feel weird. Seriously, how many more books can the characters talk about Elain ignoring Lucien, them leaving their mating bond in a stalemate and kind of just ignoring Elain for IC business in general. How many more books do we need to read about Tamlin being depressed and leaving Spring defenseless? How many more books does Lucien need to suffer an unaccepted bond and how wrong would it be if Az is given a HEA before him after Az had zero respect for Lucien's bond and zero respect for Lucien himself? Something about that would not feel fair 😂. Az will get his HEA but I'm not sure he deserves an immediate reward after not really caring whether he kills Lucien.

If Elucien isn't next, what would SJM even do with Elain's character? She can't have her start taking on a bigger role with the IC, then it wouldn't make sense for her to leave, it would seem like she was where she belonged. So is Sarah going to have her in the background gardening while the IC still never asks her to join in on meetings? Hiding in her room? There's no storyline for Elain until she has her own book. Elain won't heavily feature in a Gwynriel book but if she's still living in the NC, then SJM is going to have to come up with something for her because anytime Az meets with Rhys, Feyre, Nesta, Amren, Cassian, etc......Elain needs to be somewhere.

Gwynriel definitely has things to address, both together and as individuals, but really, they can wait a bit 😂