#eri-descent

[auutumn]

autumn court inspired by germanic folklore & fairytales, my beloved

[bmpmp3]

naming ocs is such a struggle in general but its especially a struggle when you want to name ur ocs realistic stuff thats of non white and/or non english speaking origin because like if ur a foolish monolingual english speaker like myself u gotta constantly outrun the churned out baby naming website listicles of non-english names listed with meanings they either garbled through a game of telephone at best or just straight made up at worst while trying to find any research source u can read thats half decent. fighting for my life out here

AND LIKE its not like i can ask any friends and acquaintances about this stuff like HOW do i ask some work buddy like hey. what culturally thoughtful name should i give my funny little cartoon guy. thank you and goodnight I CANT i cant do it orz

of course i dont mind a weird made-up name on occasion, but like. and this might be more important to me in particular as i am some kinda vaguely ambiguous mixed race person with very noticeably "ethnic" name for the north american country i live in who also has like 389423053742 vaguely ambiguous mixed race ocs but. you know. i love my oc Sci. and I love that his name is Sci short for Science Fiction. and I love that he's a second generation iranian canadian named Sci pronounced Sai short for Science Fiction. but a real human name would be nice sometimes too LOL

[sarawritestories]

I Need a Hug

Rhysand X Fem Reader

Summary: You need a hug and no one better than the The High Lord of the Night Court. Your High Lord.

Content Warning: Misogyny, Beron being a dick, depression, anxiety, negative self talk, choking and not the fun kind. And semi proof read

A/N: Tags will come later today, but this started as a cassian fic, and then it took on a life of its own...so enjoy 😘

Remain calm.

Rhys' voice slid into your thoughts as you and the High Lord of the Night stood in front of Beron, his smile, anything but kind. The High Lord had spent the past hour berating you, calling you vicious names, and worst of all...undermining your authority as Rhys' right-hand woman his second in command.

And your resolve was slipping.

As you took on the role of Second in command as Amren retired to spend her days in the warm comfort of summer, you had been met with scrutiny and push back. You knew your worth, and Rhys trusted your judgment. Your friends were in your corner to support you and the choices you made. But some nights as you lay in your bed, the steady beat of the half illyrian's heart reaching your fae ears beside you was when the voices emerged from the darkness.

Oily, black, and sticky, the voices would bring doubt to your leadership or your best friend's choice to put you in power in the first place. Your confidence began to wane, and the darkness that would lurk in the back of your mind began to consume you, isolate you from ever talking about it.

You were becoming a shell.

Beron's voice brought you back to the Autumn Court's thrown room, but his words enhanced the darkness.

"Are you so incompetent that you can't deign me with a response? To understand a simple inquiry?" Heat rose to your cheeks as your thoughts had drowned his words out. You weren't sure what he asked.

Your eyes flicked to the floor, not wanting to meet his pointed stare with eyes that matched one of your dearest friends once upon a time. A male now stranger to you. He would be so dissapointed to female you had become.

If former heir of Autumn was alive, he would have been.

Focus. He asked you what happened?

His voice made you flinch. A reminder that the mission you and Eris were on failed.

He paid with his life.

You paid with the guilt gnawing at you.

You recounted the details of going to the middle and being ambushed. Steel and carnage swirled in the bog, and a Kelpie approached to drag you to the abyss. To torture you in more vile ways, then the dark corners of your mind wouldn't dare bring to light. You had shut your eyes resigned to your fate, sending a quick prayer to take care of your friends. But his hand did not reach yours. Nor did any attacks come your way. You sat up from the ground and found the earth around you blackened from Eris' flames and the murky water ahead where bubbles rose to the top.

Until they didn't.

Eris Vanserra had died.

And it was your fault.

Cassian and Azriel kept you close, but you had shut yourself off. That didn't stop them from following you in the streets of Velaris from a distance. The weight of your guilt didn't need to fall to them. The darkness relished in your pain. Fueled your doubts in your ability to perform your duties to your court. And yet they still hovered. It felt as suffocating as the darkness rotting your brain and the words of defeat and shame that weighed on your heart as though dark oily tar were there to help into your descent of madness.

Into an abyss.

A hand gripped your neck and you screamed out as the hear from Beron's grasped seared your skin.

"Beron. Enough." Rhys snarled, but High Lord of Autumn tightened his grip, making you whimper. "Beron!" Beron erupted a wall of fire that kept Rhys from reaching to you. To keep you from getting to him.

Your mate.

"You, bitch. A life for a life. It's what's fair." Beron's spittle hit your face. You clawed his arm, desperate for oxygen. The heat on your neck made you want to scream out, but he squeezed so tightly that your ability to speak was taken. Suffering in silence.

It's what you deserve

The voice slipped into your subconscious as your vision began to darken around the edges.

Failure.

Pathetic.

Worthless.

"Let. Her. Go." A female voice boomed through the cavernous room. Beron released you with enough force that you fell to the ground. Gasping for the air, your lungs so desperately as Rhys knelt beside you rubbing your back in soothing circles.

You glanced over to where the voice came from and your heart shattered. Lady of Autumn head to toe in black her vibrant red hair, the one she shared with Eris the only color on her.

A mother in mourning.

A depiction of your shortcomings. She only glanced at Rhys as she spoke again, "Leave us. Please." Her voice was a whisper at the final word, but Rhys was quick to wrap his arms around you and winnow you back to the Town House.

"That went..." Rhys trailed off, not knowing what word to use. You finally were able to breathe normally as your High Lord looked at your neck, his eyes wide. His fingers reached out, but you flinched, and he gently placed his arm to his side. "Madja needs to look after you. The burns look...deep."

You walked to a mirror to see blisters in the form of a handprint around your neck.

It's what you deserve.

The oily voice slithered in your mind. The darkness was close to consuming you. Instead of the sheer panic, you once felt there was something much worse lingering.

Numbness.

Before you were consumed, Talons took hold, causing you to gasp. You didn't mean to leave your shields down. Your eyes widened as Rhys gazed behind you, his own eyes filled with a mixture of things. You realized he didn't sneak in. Your thoughts had projected out. To him. As if your subconscious knew you needed him.

"How long have you been feeling this way?"

"Does it matter?" You were about to leave when he gripped your wrist.

"It does to me." Rhys gripped your hand in his, and he pressed his lips to your knuckles, "Thought for a thought?" You nodded, remaining silent, your lips forming a tight line, not wanting to go first. Rhys gave a faint smile, "I've missed you."

You rolled your eyes. "I barely leave, Rhys. Unless I have to, I'm always here in Velaris."

Rhys' violet eyes sharpened as he slid his free hand in his pocket. "You think I can't tell when my wife has withdrawn from me?" Your breath quickened as he dropped your hand, and you took a step back. You didn't realize you had withdrawn yourself so fully. You thought you had put on a good show. Rhysand took a step forward, "Did you not think I would notice when my sweet, beautiful mate locked her mind so tightly from me? Or how she didn't eat or sleep?"

"Why didn't you do anything?" You whispered ans you watched the stars bank from his eyes.

"Who do you think made sure there was food on the nightstand? To make sure Cassian ran, you ragged that you would fall asleep." Your mind raced as you're back pressed to the wall. "I did what I could, My Darling Girl." He pressed his forehead to yours, "Why did you shut me out?"

Your eyes lined with silver, "It wasn't your burden to bare." Rhysand blinked at your answer. "My shortcomings are my own-

"No."

"No?" Your voice was laced with...irritation.

Rhys smirked, "You don't get to make the choice for me about what I want to deal with. That isn't how this works." His finger curled under my chin. "Your burdens are mine. The only darkness that should be consuming you is mine." His eyes held an intensity to them that caused a shiver to ripple down your spine. "You are mine. I will fight all of your demons." He pressed his forehead to yours, "You have to let me in, Darling."

Warmth slid down your cheeks as tears erupted, "I don't know how."

Rhys kissed your head the warmth of his lips on your skin, causing a warmth to bloom in your chest, chipping away some of the darkness there. "How about we start small?" He pulled away to see your face and the small nod you gave him, "What do you need right now?"

You gnawed at your bottom lip, "It's dumb"

Rhys quirked a brow, "Anything that brings you peace, darling, is not dumb."

"A hug." You closed your eyes and took a deep breath, "I need a hug."

Arms wrapped around you, pulling you closer to the familiar jasmine and ocean scent that kept you grounded. A hand around your waist and one stroking your hair that instantly brought you comfort. Emotions moved toward the surface, and before you knew it, your dam of computer crumpled, and sobs escaped your throat. With every sob and soothing word from your mate, the darkness was curling back. A light consuming your body shielding you from the darkness.

Starlight.

Rhys had always been the light in your life, fighting the demons that so often plagued you. Over 500 years of friendship and love, this male, this high lord, your high lord was unwavering and would be the beacon of light that brought you back from the dark. Back to him. Back to his arms.

Home.

When he spoke it was in your mind:

Do not feel like you have to shoulder your burdens alone? Me, Cassian, Azriel, Mor. Cauldron, go visit Amren in summer where light will seep into your pores, I don't care who, but if you feel the darkness consuming you, don't shut us out. We love you. I love you. My world means nothing without you in it.

You sobbed harder. I'm sorry, Rhys.

You have nothing to apologize for, Darling.

You pulled away enough to see his face, and he raised his hands to swipe the tears from your eyes. Before tenderly placing his lips on yours. Rhys' light banishing the darkness and lifting the weight that was burdening my heart with the action.

He pulled away, "Are you well enough to go to the Cabin?"

You nodded your head and Rhys his darkness, a comfort to you, consumed you both until you were outside the doors of the cabin. Rhys knocked thrice and waited, pulling you closer to keep you warm.

Cassian opened the door, "Was starting to get worried." He glanced to you, his hazel eyes softening, only flaring slightly at the sight of your neck, "Hey you. You okay?"

You nodded and curled your finger, indicating you wanted him closer. He leaned down to your eye level wings tucked tight as you kissed his cheek, "Thanks for being my shadow."

"He wasn't your only one," a voice hollered behind him."

Cassian smiled and winked at you, "Anytime, sweetheart." He moved from the doorway where you and your mate walked in. To find Azriel and a red-haired male curled on the couch. Azriel's gaze met yours with a smirk, "Did it work?"

Rhys smiled as Azriel stood to hug you, flaring his wings for a moment. "Yes."

You heard the couch move and Az released you. Moving to reveal who he was nuzzling with on the couch and you gasped.

Eris Vanserra. Alive and well. "Good, my plan works best if everyone thinks I'm dead." His russet eyes met yours and he gave you a sad tentative smile, "I'm sorry I-

You didn't let him finished before wrapping your arms around his neck, Tears once more falling down your cheeks, "You're not dead."

He wrapped his arms around you, "Not yet."

"I didn't kill you." You whispered

Eris pushed you away to face you, "Oh, sunshine. If I had perished, it was never your fault." His eyes glanced to Azriel, "I'm just lucky someone was lurking around the middle."

Azriel winked at him, and you noticed pink on Eris' cheeks. But turned back to me, "I'm sorry, I frightened you."

You pulled him into an embrace once more, "Don't do it again, you prick."

"Oh, I don't think Rhysand will let me pull that twice. He was about ready to throttle me when Az brought me in."

You looked to your mate, who was leaning against the wall one leg crossed over the other. Flicking a piece of lint of his jacket he shrugged, "Swamp water on my carpet is a nuisance. Making my wife cry is a terrible offense to the Night Court. As is your father laying a hand on her."

Eris then noticed the hand print on your neck, "He will pay greatly, High Lord." He said through gritted teeth.

"Good, Future High Lord." Your eyes widened as you realized what was going on. Eris smirked, releasing you. You noticed a shadow billowing through his fingers.

"So what's next?" You asked as you walked to your mate.

Cassian chimed in a wild grin on his face, "We go to war."

Eris smiled, "We go to war."

Rhysand curled an arm around your waist and kissed the crown of your head. With the wave of his hand, we all held goblets of wine. "To Eris Vanserra, Soon to be High Lord of the Autumn Court."

We all cheered and drank from our cups. I smiled my friends were here alive and happy.

And the darkness was nowhere to be found.

[damedechance]

I FINALLY got around to finishing this chapter and now I don't know what to do with myself

what hath night to do with sleep

Chapter Five

Eris only manages a few hours of sleep before the day of Adler’s appointment, but he’s used to running on less, thanks to his ER rotation last term. He counts down the minutes until he can run to the cafe down the street and buy coffee on his lunch break.

He doesn’t think about the afternoon.

Instead, he takes studious notes on an older woman’s gout, on a young boy’s ingrown toenail, on a young man’s bruised ribs from a rough game of football. There is always one part of him waiting for that velvet-soft voice to curl through his mind, to remind him of what is to come.

Read more on ao3.

[clanwarrior-tumbly]

Masterlist: Pokémon x Reader

Sword/Shield

Reader comforting Hop after Bede insults him

HCs: Hop being mentored by a Trainer!Reader who specializes in electric types

Cuddling w/ Piers

HCs: Piers falling in love with Pokepasta!Reader

Raihan reacting to Reader's intimidating Pokémon being soft

HCs: Raihan reacting to Reader, who owns a Zekrom and is sweet to dragon types

Leon encountering Bisharp!Reader in the Galar Championship

Legends of Arceus

HCs: Reader comforting Volo after his defeat

HCs: Warden Ingo w/ a Wanderer!Reader

HCs: Porygon!Reader in Hisui

Reader showing Ingo a Shiny Sneasel (drabble)

Reviving Lady Sneasler (Post-Hisui AU)

Scarlet/Violet

Paldea Trio

Jokingly proposing to Arven

HCs: Arven meeting Reader's Iron Hands

HCs: Meeting Chien-Pao

HCs: Meeting Chi-Yu

HCs: Meeting Ogerpon

Meeting the "Loyal" Three

Meeting Reader's Type: Null (who evolves into Silvally)

HCs: Reacting to Reader's Scolipede

Reacting to Pokepasta!Reader's team

Meeting and helping Mewtwo!Reader who escaped Team Rocket

HCs: Reacting to Reader's Elderly Garchomp (who use to be their grandpa's back in Alola)

HCs: Reacting to Kalosian!Reader who is of royal descent & owns a Furfrou

HCs: The trio (+ Hassel) reacting to Reader who lost their Mightyena

HCs: Reacting to Reader's birthday falling on Halloween

HCs: Reacting to Reader (who is the grandchild of a celebrity model/singer) and their Espathra

HCs: The trio (+ Carmine & Kieran) w/ a Dancer!Reader who is a descendant of sirens and owns Hoopa, Toxtricity, Oricorio, Alpha Primarinna, Meloetta, and Scream Tail

Team Star

HCs: Eri dating Reader, who is also a Shiny Hunter

HCs: Eri w/ Fem!Reader who acts like Team Star's Nurse Joy

HCs: Ortega meeting Fashion Designer!Reader

Gym Leaders + Professors

HCs: Hassel reacting to Reader's Elderly Garchomp

Jacq & Reader reacting to twin Shiny Growlithes hatching from their Arcanines' egg

Reader being cautious of Raifort

Reader convincing Professor Turo to make amends with Arven

Taming Aggressive!Miraidon (Turo Lives AU)

HCs: Cuddling with Turo (angst)

HCs: Larry reacting to Shy!Champion!Reader confessing to him

HCs: Larry meeting Mermaid!Tatsugiri!Reader

Reader w/ Missingno!Larry

Grusha falling in love with a Challenger!Reader who specializes in fire types and easily gets cold

Teal Mask/Indigo Disk/Mochi Mayhem

HCs: Carmine, Kieran, & Perrin meeting Pokepasta!Reader

Reader giving Ogerpon to Kieran (post-DLC)

Kieran reuniting w/ Reader, who was his shy childhood best friend

HCs: Drayton reacting to a reckless Reader

HCs: Kieran (+ Arven) meeting Shy!Reader with a Tapu Koko, Bloodmoon Ursaluna, Salazzle, and Iron Valiant

HCs: BB Elite Four (+ Kieran) dating Reader whose Miraidon get extremely jealous

HCs: Kieran, Carmine, & Drayton reacting to Reader falling into a coma after Terapagos' attack.

HCs: Kieran & Carmine reacting to Reader's new team (BM Ursaluna, Armarouge, Ogerpon, Shiny Slither Wing, Koraidon, & Chien-Pao) in the Indigo Disk

Reader w/ Pokemon

HCs: Paleontologist!Reader meeting Ancient Paradox Pokémon

Iron Valiant rescuing a Child!Reader from Iron Jugalis

HCs: Trainer!Reader comforting Koraidon, Iron Valiant, Mimikyuu, and Maushold after accidentally harming them

Garchomp protecting Fidough!Reader

[cartermagazine]

Today In History

Elijah “The Real” McCoy, inventor and holder of around 57 patents, was born in Colchester, Ontario, on this date May 2, 1843.

McCoy was a Canadian-American of African-American descent. Born free on the Ontario shore of Lake Erie to parents who fled enslavement in Kentucky-he traveled to the United States as a young child when his family returned in 1847, becoming a U.S. resident and citizen.

His machine lubricants were so in demand that buyers of machinery insisted that they contain only the “Real McCoy” lubricants.

CARTER™️ Magazine

[may-be-made-of-arsenic]

for Odysseus’ name to become synonymous with journey; Odyssey- he has lost his humanity; even after he dies and his body burnt to ashes on a pyre he won’t enter Hades. he will be damned to a thousand more journeys, a thousand more trials and a thousand more deaths. his spirit floats through the plays that recite his journey, echoes through the songs sung about him, his pain seeks through every epithet. Sacker of cities. Great glory of the Achaeans. Mastermind of war. Master mariner. Man of pain.

he will be damned time and time again to suffer and reach home for it to be torn out of his grasp each time. he will reach where the river styx fades into Hades and see the descent and before he can feel relief he is back where he started. He is in Troy. He is in a boat in an unfamiliar land, but it has his name. He is in Troy again, but not the same one he raided and burnt. he is floating through the aether. he is not a man anymore. nor is he monster. he is a Thing, an Ideal; akin more to Thanatos or Hypnos or Eris in he is no longer Odysseus he is the personification of journey.

If there truly are three deaths; one of the mind, one of the heart, and one of the memory. then Odysseus has become immortal and yet he begs for death. he no longer knows whether he begs for the peace of Hades or to truly be forgotten, to truly cease to be

[hrizantemy]

Day 14 of ACOTAR Games: This or That

Since most of you are writers, I assume you’d enjoy the upcoming tasks. You may share how you envision this playing out, if you please.

Who deserves a villain arc?

Tamlin

Eris

Your contenders: @achaotichuman @litnerdwrites @positivelyruined @umthisistheonlyusernamenottaken

On penalty: @hrizantemy @yaralulu

Ah, the villain arc debate—we love to see it. Now, between Tamlin and Eris, I’m definitely leaning toward Tamlin for the villain arc. Why? Because, honestly, Eris is already killing it in the villain department, and it’s high time Tamlin gets his due.

Let’s start with Eris. The guy’s already classified as a villain, but it’s a bit more complicated than that. He’s been scheming, manipulating, and playing the game for centuries. Whether it’s using his family’s position for personal gain or making strategic moves behind the scenes, Eris already has the bad guy credentials. Plus, I mean, he literally has a villainous vibe with his clever words, hidden motivations, and his skill in the dark art of power plays. He’s the antihero we secretly root for because deep down, we know he’s got layers—he’s not just out here being bad for the sake of it. And with all the shit he’s been through (looking at you, Beron), he’s more justified than a lot of people think.

Tamlin’s villain arc should’ve started right after Feyre destroyed the Spring Court and walked out. That was the perfect moment for him to snap and spiral into full-on villainy, and honestly, it would’ve been delicious to watch.

Imagine this: Feyre, having broken his heart and his entire Court, walks away and leaves Tamlin in the ruins of the life he built. Instead of crawling into his feelings and sulking in his guilt (which he totally did), he should’ve realized this was it. This was his turning point.

Feyre’s destruction of his Court was the ultimate betrayal for Tamlin. He did everything for her, made all these sacrifices, and in return, she destroyed everything in a fit. He should have taken that personally, and by “personally,” I mean he should’ve started plotting his revenge. His villain arc should’ve started with him huddling in the wreckage, staring at the broken pieces of his kingdom and realizing: No one will get away with this.

First step: He would have called in all the power plays he could. No more playing nice. He would’ve been at the height of his bitterness, frustration, and rage. But rather than seeking redemption, he should have gone full Machiavellian. Power grabs, alliances with the worst people, manipulation, and domination—the Spring Court becomes his personal battleground for revenge, and Feyre’s betrayal becomes the catalyst for his downward spiral.

Tamlin would have been obsessed with regaining control—but with an iron fist this time. That whole “gentle High Lord” persona would’ve been a distant memory. We could’ve seen him with Beron, cutting shady deals, solidifying alliances with people who despise Feyre’s side of things. He could have gone to the other courts, not as a High Lord who plays fair, but as a man who is willing to crush anyone in his way. His anger could’ve festered, growing into this sick obsession with “showing them all” just how powerful and unstoppable he could be. Revenge would’ve been the driving force in his villain arc.

Imagine Tamlin building an army of his own. No longer the soft, misunderstood guy who just wanted to protect his people—no, now he’s seeking vengeance. He would’ve gone after the Night Court, Cassian, Rhysand—anyone who had even a hint of involvement in Feyre’s rebellion. The way he’d target Rhysand, undermining him, trying to take over, make his Court the supreme power in all of Prythian.

And as the stakes get higher, Tamlin’s descent into darkness could have been so satisfying.

Let’s start with Feyre’s version of Tamlin. She paints him as the classic abuser—controlling, possessive, and emotionally manipulative. She spends so much time making him out to be the villain of her story, often turning the blame for everything onto him. Sure, he wasn’t perfect—his possessiveness was overbearing, and he didn’t understand Feyre’s need for autonomy. But it’s also clear that his actions were shaped by a twisted love and the trauma he’d suffered from his own family and the curse. There’s an angle where his mistakes could have been redeemed, or at least understood, if he was allowed the space to heal and grow. Instead, he’s painted as the villain, while everyone else gets a pass.

But let’s turn the tables. What if Tamlin leaned into that villain role? What if, instead of being heartbroken and conflicted after Feyre left, he embraced the image she painted of him and turned it into a weapon? What if, instead of wallowing in the destruction of the Spring Court and accepting the trauma Feyre had put him through, he went full-throttle mode and decided he would take everything he was denied—and then some?

Tamlin could’ve gone straight for the jugular. He could’ve turned his heartbreak into burning rage, seeing Feyre’s betrayal as a personal affront—not just from her, but from everyone. He spent years building the Spring Court, trying to protect his people, to be good… and how was he repaid? With Feyre smashing everything he had worked for and running off to Rhysand’s arms. Rhysand—who Tamlin saved, who he literally brought back to life—was the last straw. After all Tamlin did for Rhysand and the Night Court, to see that man swoop in and claim Feyre, while everyone ignored Tamlin’s sacrifices? That’s enough to make anyone snap.

Now imagine Tamlin at his lowest, completely untethered from any sense of morality. He goes from a heartbroken High Lord to a scorched-earth ruler, and I’m here for it. In the end, Tamlin gets everything he wants: power, control, and the satisfaction of knowing that no one ever thought he could be this dangerous.

[bubybubsters]

Impossible (prologue)

A/n: idk. Just an explanation for a in progress chapter one (no I haven’t started chapter one, idk when it’ll be out, I have my last year of hs (wish me luck). I do have a life ya know).

Mutuals you are my inspiration! (Not gonna tag you cuz idk if you want to be)

masterlist one two three

pairing: azriel x reader, Eris x reader, Azriel x Eris

word count: 980 + 1

⚠️: nah

Azriel’s POV

Azriel stormed through the doors to the forest house as his rage took over. You was here, you had to be. Elain had left without a word and that’s when he realized he’d made a very big mistake. He’d been entranced by Elain, following whatever she said without question.

Azriel can’t you see? The mother made a mistake. We are meant to be, look at this, look at me. However we can’t be us with y/n still out there, poisoning your brain. You have to reject the bond. For us. Three brothers, three sisters right?

And he’d listened he’d rejected the bond as if the mate the Mother had given him was nothing compared to Elain. He’d tried to reject you in a nice manner but when you’d asked why, he’d given up and became rude and angry. So you had left, the remaining bit of the bond shut off and tucked deep inside both of you. But Azriel could still feel your heart break. Still feel the pain and hurt and betrayal.

And he hadn’t cared.

He reached inside himself now, searching for that bond, pulling it to the surface and tugging. Only to be met with a hard wall of fire. Pure light had always been your shield before but now. Fire? As if you were hurt and raging and broken but also beautiful and healing.

Elain had left, hardly a week after he’d rejected you. She’d disappeared to the band of exiles and hadn’t said a word. Not to Azriel, not even to Feyre or Nesta. But Lucien had visited later and said Elain had just shown up at his doorstep in tears, going on about how Azriel had broken her heart. Azriel had told him his side of the story and the two males had worked it out. Now he presumed, Lucien was trying to understand Elain.

After that they’d all spent a while searching for you. Now Azriel knew you were with Eris and damn him if that didn’t hurt him to his very core. Was he truly so bad that you’d gone to Eris for help?

As he let autumn court soldiers surround him in the greeting foyer, he pushed down his raging feelings and calmed down enough to speak to the captain. “Will you get the high lord for me?”

The captain eyed him for a moment before turning to head up the stairs all while muttering, "we might be allies with the night court but wasn't there a rule about notifying 3 hours before visits?”

Azriel grimaced, he'd forgotten about that but it was too late now. He watched the soldiers move back in place before glancing out the window. The moon was just now starting its descent shining on the misty forests of red, orange and brown.

Soon he heard two pairs of footsteps and the captains voice reached him, "-ed in. Not sure what he wants but he asked to see you and I figured it must be important so I got you."

Eris and the captain appeared at the top of the stairs as Eris dismissed him. The captain bowed, "High Lord", before scuttling away.

Eris groaned his voice raspy from sleep, his hair tousled from being woken up. "To what do I owe this lovely visit at the crack of dawn?"

Azriel grimaced, he hadn’t even looked at the time before coming here and waking Eris up. “My apologies High Lord,” he bit out, bowing his head slightly.

Eris raised his brows, “trying to get on my good side so I’ll let you see y/n? It won’t work shadowsinger, it’s all her choice.”

Azriel didn’t bother looking pleasant, “go ask her then.” At Eris’ frown and obvious hesitation he added, “please, I’m begging you, please.”

“I don’t see you begging.” But despite his words Eris sighed, running a hand through his hair, making it all the more messier. “I’ll do it for her, not you. The two of you need to work it out before she can move on. But if you hurt her shadowsinger….” His face turned cold as steel and he glared to emphasize his point.

Azriel bowed his head in understanding, “Thank you, Eris.” And he meant it, he truly did.

And as Azriel watched Eris walk away, he thought maybe, just maybe, he might be a good male.

*****

Eris’ POV

As Eris opened the door to his bed chambers he thought of how broken the spymaster had seemed. And he felt a sense of sadness and sympathy for the bastard which didn’t bode well with Eris. He never sympathized so why now for you and Azriel?

He strode to the bed and shook you awake, you glared at him through your lashes and through a weak right hook at his head. Eris let it hit before pulling you to her feet. “He’s here, he wants to talk and he looks truly sorry.”

This woke you up fast and you cursed, striding into the closet and changing. The past week you’d started to open up to Eris and talk about what happened, you’ come to his room and each night he would hold you and comfort you when you woke up crying. He was your rock, your friend in this cruel world.

Only he wanted more.

He wouldn’t pressure you in any way to do anything you didn’t want to but this talk with the spymaster had to happen sooner or later. He still wasnt sure why you’d come to him after the bond had been rejected. You’d met a few times at meetings and had been on good terms despite the trouble with Morrigan but otherwise you weren’t good enough friends for you to show up here after Azriel’s rejection. Not that he was complaining, he’d felt drawn to her the moment they’d met, like how mates were drawn together. But that wasn’t possible right? For one to have two mates, but it’d certainly explain why you’d come to him and why Eris had felt sympathy to both spymaster and female.

It isint possible he chided himself as you stepped out fully dressed in your Illyrian leathers. The phrase repeated in his head. Not possible. Impossible (improbable for Nikolai fans) Not possible, no way, not two mates.

but what if it was?

*****

Part 1

thanks for sticking with me through this horrible prologue. You’re all amazing and supportive but I hope you will understand that I’m stressed with college and everything (I’m in my last year of hs).

y’all have a week left until requests close.

taglist

@profound-imagination

I will not tag anyone until explicitly asked to! (Or like idk)

[lovemyromance]

Stop Kicking Elain out of the NC

She doesn't want to go. She doesn't want to leave her family. The cauldron turning her into high fae was unfortunate, but in typical Elain fashion (my favorite quality of hers) she made the best of a terrible situation and adapted to her new home, her new body, her new life. She has friends. She glows with health. She is mending the relationship with her sisters. The male she loves is there.

Why would she want to leave?

And if anyone brings up the fact that Cassian said she couldn't pull off a black dress - I swear to god I'll be convinced you've never read a book before. Cassian, the Miranda Priestley of Velaris, declaring Elain doesn't look good in black does not mean she is being rejected by the Night Court.

Do people not read? Did you not read how Nesta had to stand out to be Eris-bait, and if Elain, gorgeous, sweet, with beauty-that-could-bring-a-king-to-his-knees Elain was done up like the rest of them, the chances of Eris following after Nesta would have been slim? They had to make her look muted, to purposefully fade her into the background. That is ALL.

Now let's get into the even worse arguments for booting Elain out of the NC. Specifically,

She belongs in Spring (with Lucien)

She belongs in Day (with Lucien)

She belongs in Autumn (with Lucien)

Do you see what all those have in common (other than being surface level awful arguments)? They all center around Lucien. Who currently, Elain avoids like the plague. But I'm getting ahead of myself, lets go one by one, slow and steady:

Elain does NOT belong in spring

Why is this a thing, even? Because she likes flowers and Feyre said "oh elain would like it here?" That's it? Are we reducing people down to their hobbies now? Nesta likes books, should she also move to Day? Mor likes...wine I guess, should she move into a tavern? Amren likes puzzles, ship her to Dawn? Azriel likes Elain, let's put him in the Prison??

Or, oh wait, Tamlin should lose his court and Elain and Lucien will rule? How. Genuinely, how? Lucien is already an heir to Day Court & Autumn Court. How would the magic pick him of all people if Tamlin somehow dies/gives up his court? Wouldn't it pick someone...of Spring Court descent?

P.S Flowers also grow in the Night Court.

Make it make sense.

2. Elain does NOT belong in Day

First of all, right now, nobody knows about Lucien's parentage except for Feyre/Rhys and LoA (maybe). Helion doesn't know. Lucien himself does not know.

For Lucien to become high lord of Day, y'all realize Helion would have to die, right? Why would you ever kill off such an icon? And even if he just casually lives there while Helion still rules...a lot of things would have to happen for this to occur, like: Lucien's parentage is revealed, Helion accepts him as his heir, likely a blood duel between Beron/Helion over LoA, If Beron wins THEN Lucien becomes HL of Day, but if Helion wins then Eris becomes HL of Autumn...all of this would have to be covered in one book before they can even think about moving to Day and living happily ever after. You know, if Elain ever actually gives him the time of...day.

Don't even give me the "but Elain needs sunlight"!!

P.S. The NC also gets sunlight

Elain is not a plant. She does not undergo photosynthesis and need to go to the Day Court to physically be alive. Elain does not need light she IS the light. What's not clicking folks? Her name literally means LIGHT. Some variations say fawn/deer, but mainly she is light.

3. Elain does NOT belong in Autumn

This argument is more rare, but I don't understand it either. Why would she go live in Autumn as the reluctant mate to the 7th son of the awful Autumn HL? Autumn court cannot be this interesting to y'all, that you would be totally okay with not hearing from feyre/rhys/nesta/cassian/any of the IC, just to read a story about Elain avoiding Lucien in different climate/setting? Autumn exists in the NC too, you guys. She can ignore him when the leaves change color there, just as much.

And all of this, is only centered around Lucien. Because if you just asked this sweet flower child what she wanted, I can guarantee you, her answer would be to stay right where she is: home.

If she weren't mated to Lucien, would you still be sending her away to Spring/Day/Autumn?

This isn't even a ship thing at this point, like...Lucien doesn't currently have a home right now? Why are we tearing Elain away from her home to go live with a mate she does not want? If Elucien ever did get together, it would make so much more sense for Lucien to just move to the NC instead. Because Elain sure as hell is not going to live in her ex-fiance's manor, far away from her sisters, with a mate she didn't ask for and his rude bestie who literally made a r*pe joke about her (yeah, not understanding the Jurian & Lucien friendship here either).

Stop kicking my girlie out of the night court. She's staying where she belongs. If she leaves, it will be her choice. Not because her mate lives somewhere else. Not because she likes flowers. If she stays, it will be because that is her choice.

I thought it was obvious.

[thefirstknife]

Hi Bel,

I keep seeing comments about people complaining about the quality of destiny’s writing and story in the last few weeks. I haven’t really engaged with destiny since season of defiance, what’s currently gotten everyone so riled up? I thought that people were enjoying Season of the Deep/Witch in terms of narrative, why is Season of the Wish causing people to deride the destiny writing staff again?

I don't know!

Deep and Witch have been absolute bangers in every aspect to me. I've been enjoying all interactions and lore tabs we've received. A lot of them are stuff that we've never had before, a lot of reunions and closures, a lot of development and interactions between characters who you wouldn't really think would have much in common.

Sloane's return and healing from what she's been through has been fantastic, Drifter opening up with her to help her because he also got help from others was fantastic, Sloane reuniting with Aisha and Shayura brought me to tears (Shayura's descent into madness was triggered by immense trauma of Sloane staying on Titan and Titan disappearing), everything with Sloane and Zavala...

Witch was just incredible in every single way; the focus on Eris, the amount of Eris and Ikora content!!!!! Everything about Xivu and Savathun and their interactions together!! Eris finally fulfilling her goal she promised Savathun YEARS ago, getting that closure.

Wish so far has been equally great to me. All the new stuff about Ahamkara is amazing, finally giving us proof for long-standing speculation about Ahamkara and how they aren't universally evil creatures and expanding on them as a species. I love all interactions we've had so far; finally we have Petra back, Mara's singleminded focus on figuring out how to defeat the Witness and her continuous work to improve as a person, ALL SJUR MENTIONS!!!!! I won't talk about the "leak" because we have no context for it so I will wait for the full story to be revealed before I can pass judgment; something that I think should be a lesson to learn from this entire year. Maybe wait for the story to finish before judging the story.

Literally everything this past year that involves Osiris, but especially this season now that he's back in his element with the Vex. And of course every little detail we get of him and Saint. Osiris honestly shaped this year for me with everything that he's done to uncover the biggest mysteries. I think a big reason is that a lot of people just don't like Osiris, which I consider a massive skill issue.

Other than that, I don't know what are the issues people have besides just not being interested in any of these storylines and attributing it to a nebulous "bad writing" claim. I also genuinely believe that way too many people get wrapped up too much in fandom, imagine storylines they want to see and then get disappointed when the actual story doesn't go there. Almost like people forget that this isn't their story and these aren't their characters. A lot of it is also fandom completely warping characters into not what they actually are and then feeling like the canon story is the one that's wrong.

Whatever is the reason, I guess everyone is entitled to their perspective of the story and everyone is free to explore the story in different ways through fanfics and AUs and whatever. I do that too!

But I would definitely ask people to be normal with how they engage in criticism, especially in the current state of affairs. Writers are developers; they experience a ton of harassment and negativity from the community and also from inside the company. And they are online: they can see what we're saying. It's been documented that community commentary has been used to harass writers:

Imprint this into your brain and never forget what these people had to go through. Let's not forget also the way people treated Seth Dickinson on social media when he was active with Destiny fans. "Fans" were actively arguing with him about his own work (telling him that HE is wrong) and were utterly disgusting towards him when he tried explaining what he wrote. His works are now hailed as the best writing in Destiny and people want him back. If I were him, I wouldn't want to come back ngl, not with how he was treated and not with how fans are still treating writers (and hey, Seth wrote LF Collector's Edition! So he was back, technically, this year!). Let's not forget that a lot of writers are members of various marginalised groups. And I'd definitely not want to go back with zero support from leadership.

Which is also an important aspect for all developers, including writers: sometimes they have orders they may not like, but can't argue against. They do the best they can with what they're given, the time they have and directions they receive. And with that in mind, I am enjoying everything we've gotten this year, obviously with some specific complaints about things I didn't particularly enjoy (like the universally mid reception of Defiance; I've spoken about my gripes with it before, a big one being the shafting of Suraya who should've at least been mentioned in a lore tab).

I can tell that there is passion in their work, even if maybe they would prefer to do more with it, but can't. Maybe even if they want to take different routes, but can't. But from what we got, I can feel that they care about this world and these characters. I can tell that someone lovingly wrote about Sloane and her friendships with two grieving women. I can tell that they deeply cared about Sloane's friendship with Zavala and that they loved showing us Saint and Drifter caring about a fellow trauma survivor.

I can tell that the writers are immensely careful and loving towards Eris; everything she went through was crafted with love and passion from both writers and her VA. Eris' story is such a fundamental aspect of Destiny and I can tell that this was important to the writing team and that they gave her everything they could to do justice to her character and her arc and her healing and her release from the cycle she was trapped in for so long.

I can tell that there are writers who care a lot about Osiris and Saint and their relationship. I can tell that someone cared a lot about expanding on Ahamkara and giving them more personalities. I can tell that someone cared DEEPLY about Sjur and Mara and that her repeated mentions are the passionate work of writers who want us to remember her.

I could go on. And I know that not everyone sees it this way, which is fine; we all have different ways of perceiving stories. I enjoy discussing things we in the fandom disagree on and I enjoy hearing different perspectives! Unfortunately, this has recently become rarer and rarer. And for the love of god, please try and treat writers with some respect, especially now, especially those who are still working and doing their best with the shitty situation they're in. None of the cries of "poor devs" ring true to me unless the same is given to writers, instead of treating them like punching bags.

[bloodlegacies]

Can MC feel indifferent/neutral towards Carvin? Even for some MC who already have feelings for Hayden, they may understand that was a desperate measure to avoid something way worse, and that Hayden dosen't have any feelings for Carvin (dosen't mean that their potential relationship took 10 steps back 😂)

On another note I saw that the casual relationship with Asther and Sophia will not block the romance with the Ros, will it be the same with the relationship with Eris?

PS: is Eris Nix, or are they related someway to Nix?

Yes, the MC can be neutral/indifferent towards Carvin and the others, don't worry.

And no, they won't block, but if the MC is in a relationship or has kissed any RO, and still has casual relationships with Asther/Sofia or Eris (they will be an option, both for something casual or more serious) it could complicate things with the ROs, cause jealousy, etc. No, Eris is not Nix, but she has Akalian descent (Kingdom of Nix).

[eloquentsisyphianturmoil]

There was a question about childbearing phases from @eri-pl concerning the possibility of their happening twice…

from my current understanding of elvish customs the answer is ‘unlikely’, but in terms of actual possibility it comes down to whether one thinks elves age in Mandos. If they don’t, then a Curufin who is likely at oldest no more than elvish 50 could have more children, as could any of his younger cousins. If they do age, however, even Turgon and Elenwe who likely did not take more than a valian decade while in the halls would find themselves about 60, the traditional beginning of ‘old age’ for elves, and the end of their fertile period.

So traditionally, the answer is ‘if elves age in Mandos they cannot have a second childbearing phase after release.’ But this may be a bit harsh, especially regarding the house of Finwë, who are powerful elves and likely able to extend their youth and therefore fertility until even age 96, so that it’s essentially possible for any character to have more children, providing they’re of noble/powerful descent.

From my personal and *subtextual* understanding of Tolkien’s texts (of which I have only read part) I wouldn’t call this typical elven behaviour, but it is physically possible and it doesn’t defy any ‘laws’, so to speak.

tl;dr do whatever you want with your fanfic, you are canonically protected.

[vrillopurpura]

Getting to know your moots

Got tagged by @taniks-the-final-shape over on Ellis' blog. Thanks for the chance to ramble <3

What's the origin of your blog's title?

It's the nickname/artist name that I've been using for the past 8~ years. I came with it one day at a friends house because I wanted to become a youtuber and have a special name for my channel.

Funny enough my name is misspelled, it should be "Brillo Púrpura" (Purple Glow) but I was like 9 when I chose this name and clearly didn't know how to write.

Favorite Fandoms:

There are too many but of the top of my head right now: Amnesia, Creepypasta, Destiny 2, FNaF, Genshin Impact, LoL, Shadow of The Colossus, THE FINALS.

OTP(S) + shipname:

I've been shipping Slenderman x Jeff The Killer since I'm a kid, it's quite literally my comfort ship.

Favorite Color:

Purple and violet!

Favorite Game:

Amnesia: The Dark Descent.

Song stuck in your head:

Both My Chemical Romance - To the End and Andrés Calamaro - Donde Manda Marinero are stuck in loop in my head.

Weirdest habit/trait:

Not only I'm stupidly androgynous but my face it's apparently pretty generic. So much that I sometimes find people that look a lot like me when I'm looking for drawing ideas on Pinterest.

It's really uncanny.

Hobbies:

Apart from drawing I really enjoy sewing! I'm trying cosplay this year. If everything goes right I will cosplay as Crow in the future. I'm also learning to do embroidery and I'm making myself a Destiny inspired jacket (won't say much because I'll jinx it)

If you could have any job you wish what would it be?

I really, really want to become an Environmental Artist for Frictional Games or Hearth Machine or perhaps on my own small indie studio.

Something you're good at:

Starting drawings!

Something you're bad at:

Finishing drawings!

Something you excel at:

Listening and keeping secrets. If you feel like life it's getting too heavy just drop by my DMs and I promise nothing it's going out of that chat.

Something you love:

Phalanx from Shadow of the Colossus, It's my favorite character in all media and mostly because all the things I assumed about it when I played the original game in my brother's PS2.

That not-so-little flying snake beats Crow just because I headcanoned the shit out of it and now I love it so much.

Something you could talk about for hours without off the cuff:

I can talk about anything for hours, I love talking.

Something you hate:

I'm trying to keep this "hate nothing" mentality but god I'll commit homicide if I hear someone say "Horror games are dying" and "Modern horror it's for kids" again.

No, they're not. You just follow what's mainstream and think it's bad because of it. Fuck you, I hate you.

Something you collect:

Plushies! I love them.

Something you forget:

I keep forgetting that Eris Morn was a hunter or that Saint-14 it's an exo and I also have a hard time remembering names general.

What's your love language?

Surprising people with gifts! I'm terrible with words and I'm also pretty fun

Favorite movie/show:

Avatar by James Cameron

Favorite food:

It depends. Snack? Soy Sprouts Full meal? Any type of fried fish, specially whitebait and mojarrita (can't find the actual translation for this one sorry). Dessert? Ricotta Pie Drink? Matecocido, mate or tereré. Any variation of mate honestly.

Favorite animal:

I know that as the one with 37 cats the answer may seem obvious but I actually love chickens! It's apparently something that I carry on since I was a kid and nobody in my family has an actual explanation for it since I never owned a chicken.

Are you musical?

Of course! I know how to play the bass and I'm going to learn both electric guitar and drums this year. I also went to ballet and tango classes when I was a kid.

I'm pretty bad at dancing now but I do it often to warm up for the day.

Favorite subject in school:

Math! I went to a socials school so math was one of the only subjects were the answer to a problem was definitive and not so subjective.

Least favorite subject:

Art, not because it was bad or anything! But since I was known as the "artist" in the class every group project was more of a "We'll give you ideas, you do it" thing.

What's your best character trait?

I'm told I'm pretty funny! Probably because I'm pretty fast to make jokes about the situation at hand.

Worst character trait:

I think that everybody randomly hates me for no reason. We can be friends for years and I will still think that you are talking to me not because you like me but because you see me as a chore.

I'm working on it.

If you could change any detail of your day right now, what would it be?

I want it to rain, not only because it's so fucking hot right now but because I like rain.

If you could travel in time,who would you like to meet?

Both my grandads died before I was born, I would really like to talk with them and know how much we shared. But outside family I would love to see a Les Luthiers show.

Recommend one of your favorite fanfics:

My immoral literally defined my actual style and made me rediscover MCR so yeah...

I also really like Love & Luxury and A Crow's Redemption <3

Btw I also have an Destiny RP blog @ellis-the-lightguide

I think that's all of it. Again, thanks @taniks-the-final-shape for the mention <3 I should interact with you more often honestly.

I'm tagging some people, if you don't want to do it just ignore it no strings attached!

@lord-heliox @f4t4-m0rg4n4 @unlucky-phantom @diegoellol @the-dragon-father @gerda-3

[shardminds]

happy wip wednesday to all those that celebrate!!!

here is a small snip from an elucien wip i'm chipping away at featuring vanserra bros being vanserra bros.

also eris having a dog named enailus defo is not a hint at anything... u can trust me... bro i promise... i have no ulterior motives...

Just as Elain began her descent down the grand staircase, each step punctuated with a click from her heels, the front door lurched open and two men stepped inside, bickering amongst themselves. She froze in place, at least having the good sense to stop before she missed a step and made a fool out of herself. They hadn’t noticed her, or her hesitation continuing to bicker as they made their way into the foyer. God, what was it with Velaris men?

The taller of the two looked disgruntled but even that couldn’t dull just how fiercely handsome he was. Burgundy suit and pressed white shirt fitting right in with the old money aesthetic of the entryway. His cropped auburn hair caught like flame in the sunlight. “If you didn’t insist on agitating Enailus every time, he wouldn’t pounce on you.”

The man to his side, slightly smaller but no less captivating, huffed a laugh. Elain noticed his dark jeans were spattered with thin white hairs all down one leg as he turned to close the door behind them. His hair was longer, although loose around his shoulders, but both men had the same auburn—like fall leaves. “When did a scratch behind the ears count as ‘agitating’, Eris? Please, enlighten me.”

“About the same time you got in his face, cooing who’s a good boy like an idiot. If the hair is too much for you, perhaps you should go back to your apartment instead of slumming it in my spare room. You have a terrible habit of abusing my hospitality.” Eris shouldered the other male — his brother, if the similarities in their appearance were anything to go by — as he passed, forceful but not aggressive. He made his way through the lobby towards the kitchen and open patio doors beyond, familiarity clear in his purposeful steps.

Alone, the remaining man, muttered something to himself. Elain couldn’t quite catch it but, given the context, she would put money on it having been something unsavoury.

“Rhys? Do you have a lint roller or something? Someone decided to sic the hounds on— Oh.”

Busted.

[dawneternal]

Take the World in Your Hands | Eris x Elain | Six

Summary: Eris's brothers catch wind of his proposal to Nesta. They plan to find and deliver her to their father as a gift, surely winning his favor. Their plan takes a turn when they kidnap the wrong Archeron sister and Eris finds her in the Autumn Court dungeon.

all aboard the crack ship???

Notes: sorry not sorry for the angst in this one 👀 it may be a little bit longer between the next chapters cause that's where all the drama starts to go down. Thanks for all the support!!

Warnings: smut and angst, 18+

Word Count: 3.3k

Ao3 Link / Masterlist

Elain woke to soft kisses. One on each of her cheeks, one on the tip of her nose, her forehead, her ear.

"Eris," She let out a sleepy giggle, reaching out for him. She tangled her fingers in his hair and held him still, smiling up at him and fighting to keep her eyes open. Soft honey eyes looked back at her, full of adoration and a gleam of contentment.

"Morning, sleepy dove," He murmured, burying his face in her shoulder and wrapping his arms around her. It was so lovely to wake up to someone. Someone happy to see you.

"I suppose you are regretting everything this morning?" Eris teased between kisses across her collarbone.

"Regret is not the right word," Elain feigned seriousness, eyebrows drawing together as if deep in thought, "More like...underwhelmed. I suppose you'll just have to do better, today."

Eris scoffed as her sly grin grew, as she clutched him tighter in silent encouragement to take the challenge. He fought for a moment between punishing her there and then, and flipping the challenge back onto her, coaxing out the vixen underneath her demure facade.

Pride won out, and Eris was determined to turn her to a quivering, begging mess beneath him.

In truth, Elain's whole being felt light. Lighter than it had in a very long time. Somehow, he had convinced her to pour her entire heart to him, and he had listened. He had lifted so much weight from her shoulders. And he knew, because he felt the same way. But he was nothing if not stubborn and would not let her cheekiness slide.

It was not quite thirty minutes later when he met his goal.

"Still underwhelmed?" Eris pulled away just at the edge of her descent for the third time, looking up at her from between her thighs.

"No," Elain choked out, fingers buried in his hair, trying to pull him closer, "I won't tease again. Please, please!"

Eris relented and let her fall into bliss, considerably satisfied with himself. He always got what he wanted.

Eris turned his self defense lesson into an opportunity to flirt, and Elain had expected nothing less. Brushing against her, finding ways to touch her skin, speaking in innuendos. Always that sly smile.

The snow had mostly melted in the night, revealing the decaying leaves below. The sun filtering through the trees gave little warmth, and the wind weaving through the forest was bitingly cold. But Elain's skin was flushed and warm from the exertion and from Eris's attention, her cheeks bright pink and eyes glowing.

To his credit, and despite his own distractions, Eris was an excellent teacher. By the end of his lesson Elain had built an arsenal of tools and moves that would help to make her less of a target. He showed her how to free herself from several holds, how to incapacitate an attacker long enough to get away, how to properly use her dagger if it came to it, and how to flip someone over her shoulder. Though Elain wondered if that last one was possibly just for his own entertainment.

He went through the concept and movements until she had them memorized, before giving her the chance to try it on him. He told her she only had one shot. Though the pine needles may feel soft beneath their feet, it would not feel the same when his entire weight was used against him.

Elain's execution was perfect and Eris found himself laying on the forest floor, trees towering above him, spinning with the rest of the world. He let out a small groan in spite of himself and Elain's beaming face came into view.

Eris wanted her to feel confident. To move through the world with more agency and have the courage to take what she wanted. There was a hint of it, then, as she looked down at him.

But by the time their lesson ended, it had disappeared. Elain sat down on a tree stump with a sigh, looking deeply tired.

"What's the matter, sweet one?" Eris crouched before her, taking her hands in his. He was determined to drink in every moment with her, sieze every opportunity to cherish her before he possibly never saw her again.

Elain looked down at her lap, avoiding his patient and searching eyes. She chewed her lip as she thought.

"There's just so many things in this world I don't know. About defending myself, about who I am and what I want...." The lump forming in her throat cut her off.

About love and sex and intimacy, she wanted to add, but did not have the courage. He probably knew, anyways. He seemed to know her better than herself somehow.

"Oh, dearest," Eris reached up to brush a tear from her cheekbone. Elain convinced herself to meet his eyes. "Don't let that discourage you. Let it drive you. The whole world is a possibility. Let it turn you a little wicked. And then take the whole world in your hands and make it give you what you want. Do not for a moment believe yourself to be as weak as Rhysand has treated you."

A flame sparked in his eyes as he spoke, his gentle tone turning to something sharper. Elain reached out to hold his cheek, sweeping her thumb across his freckled skin. More tears fell, too many emotions swirling in her mind. Somewhere in the back of her head was a sense of urgency. The awareness of time ticking down to the moment it was all over. She could see it in his eyes, too.

"I have trapped myself with the choices I have made," Eris's voice broke just a little, "And it would heal me to know you avoid the same fate. Use your power to free yourself."

Elain could feel the desire building in her chest, sparked by the cracking of his voice. To chase the power he spoke of and the freedom to move through this world as a formidable opponent. Eris watched it glow in her eyes. A smouldering ember, allowing him just a hint of what she held within her. Her expression had changed, the uncertainty replaced with a terrifying calm.

Elain had a face that was inherently kind. But as Eris held her hands, he could feel what began to boil under the surface, what fire had already been lit by her mistreatment. He thought of her sister and the silver flames of death that cloaked her. Nesta had scared him before, but she would no longer frighten him. From this moment on, Elain would always scare him more, as something else dwelled beneath it all.

Elain would dangle her kindness like a prize, a glittering gem coveted by many. To be in her good graces and bask in her ethereal beauty was a gift and one she did not give freely. Anyone who took advantage of it would find themselves trapped like a greedy animal, subjected to her power, given to her by the Cauldron itself. Daughter of the only Mother, beloved by the Cauldron, she would wield the powerful blade of her own judgement with no remorse and those who failed her would weep at what they'd lost. Mercy from Elain Kingslayer would be earned only by those most worthy.

Elain peeled off her coat and scarf, tossing them into the coat rack without much care. All she could think about was getting into a warm bath and chasing away the cold that gripped her to the bone.

She had not noticed that Eris copied her every move and followed her to the washroom until she began to pull her dress over her head and a pleased hum met her ears. She jumped and turned, meeting Eris's smouldering gaze.

He smirked at her and reached for the hovering hem of her dress, pulling it up and over the rest of the way.

"I want to soak in the bath," Elain informed him, crossing her arms to deprive him of the curves that he was currently devouring with his gaze.

"I won't stop you," Eris answered, his voice low. Indeed, he held his hands behind his back, though he leaned forward to leave a soft kiss on her shoulder. "And I'll leave the minute you tell me to."

But of course, Elain was silent. She flashed him one haughty look before turning on the faucet. She removed her undergarments as slowly as she could manage, bending all the way to the floor as she slid off her underwear. She pulled up her brassiere with care, ensuring that her breasts bounced against her ribs as she released them.

Eris watched it all hungrily, not bothering to hide the evidence that grew against the front of his pants.

Elain stepped so daintily into the bath water, letting out an exaggerated sigh as she lay back against the tub. Then she looked toward him at last, gazing up through her lashes in surprise as if she had forgotten he was there.

"Oh, I'm sorry," She said, voice high and sweet, "Were you hoping for an invitation?"

"Something like that," Eris smirked, his usual wit lost to him just then.

Elain pretended to think for a long moment, pulling her lip between her bottom teeth as her gaze dragged over his form at an agonizing pace. Then finally, "Alright, I suppose I don't mind sharing."

She smiled to herself at the speed at which he removed his clothes, too desperate to hide his want. His skin still glistened with sweat, highlighting every dip and swell of muscle. If he had any patience left, Eris would have stood still and let her admire him, but he was cold and sore and he could not resist the sight of Elain waiting for him, eyes wandering over every inch of his naked body.

As he lowered himself into the tub to sit across from her, the bliss of the hot water erased his desire for a brief moment. He laid back against the tub as Elain had, closing his eyes and letting the warmth envelope him.

He heard a splash of water and then felt Elain crawling into his lap, her skin smooth against his under the water. He settled his hands on her waist and opened his eyes, but the face that met him was a sad one.

Elain's brows furrowed with grief, lips pursed, as her fingertips ran over the scars on his chest and shoulders. Beads of water dripped from her fingers, as gentle as her touch.

"What's wrong?" He asked, pulling her closer against him. She didn't stop her examination.

"You've felt so much pain in your life," Elain croaked, fingers brushing against a particularly large scar, "And from people who should not have hurt you."

"They're not all from my father," Eris whispered. Elain only looked at him, eyes glistening.

"Please cheer up, dove," He wrapped his hand around hers and lifted it away, brushing her knuckles across his lips.

"Why do you speak of it that way?"

"Like what?" Eris couldn't look at her, not at the sadness on her face. The sadness for him. He could bear it alone, but not when it looked back at him like this.

"Like it's alright."

"Because I can't fix it. I'm already doing everything I can. Every waking moment is spent on planning for the future," He let his head fall back, taking a break from the intensity of her stare by bringing his gaze to the white ceiling. "Someday it'll all be over. I usually get what I want."

Elain tucked herself into him as a response, nuzzling the bridge of her nose into the curve of his neck. Eris wrapped his arms around her and hugged her close, soaking in the sympathy pouring from her heart.

"I will take the world in my hands," Elain murmured, the sound vibrating between their chests, breath tickling Eris's skin, "And I will punish it for what it's done to you."

Eris's heartbeat quickened at the ferocity in her tone, contrasting with her soft, melodic voice. At the way she gripped him tighter, nails digging into his skin as if she was worried he'd slip from her grasp. She pulled back to look at him, eyes darkening with anger and determination and desire.

Eris brought his hand to the back of her neck and pulled her into a searing kiss. Perhaps he was pathetic for the way her power heated his blood. He couldn't think clearly enough to care, let alone chastise himself for it. Not with this beautiful, wicked thing in his lap, grinding her naked body against his.

She kissed him hard, teeth clashing against his, tongue fast and punishing. She nipped at his lips, and grazed her teeth along his jaw. She left a kiss over every scar she could reach and let her hands wander his body like her touch could erase what had been done to him.

Eris settled one thigh between her legs, pulling her down into him as she met his lips. He felt her gasp against his mouth, pausing to process the pleasure that ran through her. Then she continued, rolling her hips against the tight muscle of his thigh, letting his firm hands guide her. The warmth of his skin and the water drew beads of sweat from her brow.

He watched her with hungry eyes, her lips parted and swollen from her kisses. Elain could feel her release building quickly, but she slowed to a stop.

"What is it?" Eris murmured, but she didn't answer. She threw her leg over his to straddle him once more. Then she reached down and pulled his length into her fist. Eris groaned, eyes never leaving hers as she stroked him, his fingers digging into her thighs.

Elain rose up on her knees and began to align him with her center. Eris grabbed her wrist and his eyes searched hers.

"Are you sure?"

"I am sure." She said, firm. No sign of hesitation.

Eris relented, releasing her wrist and allowing her to sink down onto him. Elain braced her hands on either side of the tub, letting her head fall back as she reveled in the stretch. Reveled in how good it felt to give her body what it wanted.

Eris took the opportunity to lean forward and kiss her exposed neck. The movement pushed him deeper inside her, eliciting sounds of pleasure from them both. He brought his hands to her breasts, massaging and pinching as he attacked her neck. Soft kisses, punishing bites, apologetic swipes of his tongue. He left dark bruises along her collarbone, in the hollow of her throat, over her pulse points. When she had taken him in fully, he dropped his hands to her hips and encouraged the smooth push and pull of her body.

It did not take long for her movements to shift from slow and savouring to desperate, feverish. Lifting her hips and slamming back down, the head of his cock hitting some glorious spot inside her. She reached down and circled her clit with her finger tips, adding to the building pleasure.

Eris was trembling, breathing hard, moans escaping from deep in his throat. They were music to her ears, a song of his adoration.

"Elain, you should slow do-" He panted, gripping her thighs tighter.

"Are you telling me that you have no tonic in this secret sex cabin?" She cut him off, not stopping but keeping the same relentless pace.

Eris blinked at her and then tipped his head back and laughed, shoulders shaking. The corners of his eyes crinkled, something Elain had not seen yet. She stuffed it away for later, something else to cherish. If she could, she'd put it in a locket and wear it over her heart. 

"I do," Eris said, punctuated by a laugh-turned-whimper.

"Then come inside me."

Eris clenched his jaw, all mirth giving way back to desire. He wrapped his arms around her waist and pulled her in close, arching her back, holding her tight against him as he thrust into her hard and fast.

Elain held onto his shoulders, face buried in his neck as he fucked her, crying and whimpering against his skin. Release hit Eris first and he pulled her in, biting down on her bottom lip and groaning into her throat. Elain swallowed the sound, and the extra heat deep in her cunt pulled her over with him. She cried out his name, followed by a sob.

"Good girl," Eris purred, though he could barely think through the waves of bliss, "Come with me."

They clung to each other through the entirety of their release, skin against skin. Catching their breath as the movement of their bodies slowed to a stop.

It had been over for only a handful of seconds before everything began to feel solemn again. The sand was falling through the hourglass and neither could shake their awareness of it.

Elain's eyes welled with tears and  Eris and held her tight, cradling her head against his shoulder. She traced mindless circles in the curls at the nape of his neck, Eris running his free hand up and down the length of her back. They stayed that way for a long while. As long as the hourglass would allow.

Elain lay awake in the dark, trying not to disturb Eris as he slept beside her. She was full from dinner, satisfied with what she'd learned from their lesson, and delightfully sore from the exercise and from a third round of lovemaking after dessert. But something Eris had said while they ate had stuck in her mind, keeping her from drifting off.

"You know," He said, strangely reserved. Not wanting to look her in the eye, "My brother is not so bad. Actually, I'd say he's the best one of us."

Elain had stopped eating and stared at him, bewildered.

"What do you mean?"

"I mean that maybe you should give him a chance to show you how well he could care for you," His words eye gentle, but he still would not look at her, poking at the last few bites on his plate.

"You know nothing of what's between us," Elain said, voice bitter. Eris had already braced for it.

"Maybe not. I just want things to be different for you, after this." He stood to take care of his plate, leaving her to ponder his words.

She was still pondering his words. She knew that she had perhaps been unfair with Lucien. But the circumstances of him being around her, trying to court her, were too overwhelming. She had not been interested in someone who she had not chosen. Someone thrust upon her by the same cauldron that stripped her over her humanity, drowning her in death and gifting her rebirth as something she never wanted.

But she was so lonely. And Eris was right, she knew Lucien would be good to her. But at this point, was she even worthy of him?

Elain pulled herself from Eris's arms, pausing to see if he'd wake. When his even breathing did not falter, she left the bed as quietly as she could and made her way to the washroom. There, she strapped Eris's dagger to her thigh and stood in front of the mirror. Over and over, she practiced what he had taught her. Pulling it out in a fluid motion, solid in her grip, holding it up as if to an attacker's throat.

She did it again and again, banning all thoughts but those of perfecting her movements. It did not clear her mind as well as baking or gardening, but it worked somewhat. She tried to let her nerves about the following day drive her, sharpen her skill. That's what Feyre would do.

When she was tired enough to sleep, she slipped back into bed, cuddling in close to Eris, letting his warmth lull her away.