#find neris way better

[etchedjade]

My comfort headcanon is that, instead of going to the house of wind, Nesta decided to run to the human lands instead in a petty act against the IC, as if saying she preferred a sure death than live with Cassian. And you know what court is closest to the human boarders?

The Spring Court.

Nesta going there and kinda forcing Tamlin into taking her in, both turning into reluctant housemates that clash a lot, but Nesta isn't afraid of his beast form and her mean tongue doesn't bother Tamlin. Eventually they become friends because they bond over the ic's hypocrisy and how they've been treated over glasses of wine. They both get their healing arcs together.

She gets to see Eris sometimes, outside the IC machinations, and while they don't like each other yet, she gets to know him a bit better.

Until the IC comes looking for her (because of course Rhysand had Azriel track her down to drag her back) Tamlin helps her escape and guess who ends up finding her this time?

Eris, who brings her to his court as a refugee, and she has to navigate around the complicated family dynamic and the twisted court where no one can be trusted. But much like Feyre's canon story, what seemed like a terrifying and evil court turns out to be way more than it meets the eye. The Vanserra are not what people think, none of them. And slowly, Nesta finds her place within them

First of all, I love this. I believe she would heal better away from the IC and outside of the NC (though the Valks helped a lot). I do think Nes having a hand in taking down Beron and rebuilding Autumn with someone who gets her—Eris—would be very cool and fitting.

Second of all, I think I partially read a fic that went something like this. I didn’t get to the part where Nes got together with anyone but Nes and Tam’s bond was really sweet. I think the endgame for the fic was Az—which I love bc Nesriel is on par with Neris for me.

It’s called “A House of Flame and Flower” by Mellowenglishgal on AO3!

Third of all, I was not expecting this but I love that you wanted to share your Nesta-related thoughts and headcannons with me!

If anyone wants to send their Nesta/Valk/or Autumn Court theories and headcannons with me, please feel free to send it in asks! I’d love to read them!

(I’m actually working through 3 theories rn and hope to post those with evidence in the next month or so)

[banishedchildofeve]

˚｡⋆ Patron Saints that help guide us through the year

₊⋆·˚ ⁀➴ ༉‧₊˚. ₊ ⊹ 𖥔 ݁ ˖ ✧˚ .

- St. Dymphna ; the Patron Saint of mental illness.

while it can hard for us to admit that we are struggling mentally on a serious level, we have all had moments of feeling very low. i personally have struggled, and so struggle with, anxiety, depression, anger issues etc. these have been serious issues for me and i learnt a prayer i will link - here - that has helped me know St. Dymphna. ˚࿐

- St. Vitus ; the Patron Saint of oversleeping.

we have all overslept once, if not maybe multiple times a week or month. for some, oversleeping is a rare misfortune, but for others, including me, oversleeping is a regular problem and has affected my life in a various of negative ways. here is a - link - to a prayer that i found. ˚࿐

- St. Phillip Neri ; the Patron Saint of joy (and friendship).

i dunno about all of you guys, but i have lost more friends then i have gained since leaving high school. this isn’t a bad thing as a lot of the people i spent time with weren’t very nice, but like most people, i am always wishing for more friends. friendship is so important, and i read up about St. Phillip Neri and learnt so much. he is also the Saint of Joy! here is a - prayer - ˚࿐

- St. Padre Pio ; the Patron Saint of stress relief (and adolescents).

we all get stressed, duh. stress can take a toll on so many aspects of our lives, including our health on a long-term scale. trying to reduce stress is ironically, quite a stressful process. i have found peace in a plenty of Bible verses that talk about being calm and trusting God. i have also found peace in Padre Pio, a Saint who i knew about long before God called me to Catholicism. i have him on a bracelet, haha. here is a - prayer - by St. Padre Pio i have found, and also a - prayer - TO Padre Pio. ˚࿐

- St. Expeditus ; the Patron Saint of procrastination.

if someone says they don’t procrastinate, i’m 99.9% sure they’re lying. you do it, i do it, we know it’s bad, but it can be so hard to fight sometimes. good thing we have St. Expeditus! here is a - prayer - that we should all recite daily. i wish you the best! ˚࿐

- St. Anthony ; the Patron Saint of lost things.

my keys, my glasses, my card, sometimes even whole outfits or pairs of shoes… how many times a week, even a day, do we lose things we own? i’m sure we all know about St. Anthony, most atheists know about him, but i often find myself forgetting that he is there for us. a - prayer - to the finder of those annoying lost items.

- St. Jude ; the Patron Saint of lost causes (and “impossible” circumstances).

we have all thought a situation we’ve been in is completely and totally helpless. we’re stuck, there’s no way out and this feeling might just be forever. despite how hard these moments are, however long or short they may last, they do always end. we end up feeling better. however, that’s not to say that that feeling of helplessness isn’t so hard to bare. i’ve been there, i understand. i only recently learnt about St. Jude, (prior to this, the only ‘jude’ i knew of was the Beatles song… forgive me…). thankfully, St. Jude represents hope for the hopeless and miracles for all of us facing those helpless circumstances. - prayers

₊⋆·˚ ⁀➴ ༉‧₊˚. ₊ ⊹ 𖥔 ݁ ˖ ✧˚ .

i hope this was somehow useful. God bless you. <3

౨ৎ

i also just make up my own prayers to Saints when needed. sometimes we don’t resonate with a prayer, and that’s okay. i often add to prayers or find myself reciting my own. i linked prayers for suggestions, not as some sort of strict guideline :)

౨ৎ

[danikamariewrites]

Ours to Keep

Neris x reader

A/n: Happy last day of @polyacotarweek ! Everyone out such hard work into their amazing pics and I loved reading them. For the last day (like Eris week) I went with vampire!Neris. You can't deny that these two wouldn't make the hottest vamp couple out there.

Warnings: none

Exploring the castle you pull your shawl tighter around your shoulders. It was bone chilling inside the cavernous stone castle, but better than being left out in the months long blizzard ravaging your village. 

When winter set in over two months ago your father succumbed to his illness. The same one your mother suffered from over a year ago. Losing your parents gave you a new drive to survive. With nothing left in your village you set out to survive somewhere else. 

On your journey the blizzards arrived, slowing you down and forcing you to find cover earlier than you wanted. After weeks of hunkering down in caves and rundown inns the blizzard had cleared revealing a looming castle in the distance. Something in your soul told you to go toward it. You found it was the only shelter, the woods devoid of anything safe for what seemed like days. Reaching the gates of the castle you looked behind you to find the blizzard had picked up again. 

Shoving your way through the heavy front doors it only took you three paces to be met with Eris and Nesta. Fae turned vampire. You piqued their interest, being just a human girl and made a deal with you. You could stay, untouched and safe, for two months. After that you had to choose between facing winter on your own again or staying with them forever to be their source for human blood, something they have gone too long without.   

At first you distanced yourself from Eris and Nesta. But you were drawn to them which made it hard to stay away. You couldn’t help but be near them. Since the blizzard blocked out the sun they weren’t hidden away at all hours of the day. 

The more time you spent with them the more you wanted to learn about them. Something that piqued your interest was how they became vampires. On an afternoon spent with Eris in his study you finally felt brave enough to ask him this question. “It was a punishment for us wanting to be together. Little did the people who forced us into this life know the carnage they were unleashing upon themselves.” The tale gave you chills. It was romantic and horrifying all at the same time, making you swoon for the immortal male.

As you come across an old portrait of them from when they were simply fae you stopped, staring up at them. They were so beautiful here. How have they become finer with age? 

With immortality in mind you think about the deal you made with them to keep you safe. Would you join them? Beg them to make you into what they are? You had come to love them, even sharing heated stolen moments with the pair. Your almost kisses with Nesta in the library had heat rushing to your cheeks. Did they talk about you like that? 

You need to make a decision soon. Your two months are almost up and you’re not entirely sure you want to leave Nesta and Eris. 

Setting out to search for them, you find the vampires in the parlor. Eris was reading by the fire as Nesta softly played a classic piece on the grand piano. On near-silent feet you make your way over to Nesta, sitting next to her on the bench. Nesta smirked, her slender fingers never faltering as she continued to play. 

Resting your head on her shoulder Nesta placed hers on top of yours. The cold from her body seeped through your thick shawl. It wasn’t a bone chilling cold like you felt while wandering the castle. It was a comforting cool. Like when you’re too hot on a summer afternoon and jump into the lake. 

As the song comes to an end Nesta’s hand travels down the keys, dipping to gently hold onto yours. Bringing your warm fingers to her lips for a small kiss as she stared at you with those sultry silver eyes. You bring her cold fingers to your mouth, pressing kisses across her knuckles. “You’re so talented Nes. I could listen to you play forever.” You sigh out. 

Eris watched from his arm chair with a predatory smirk. He beckoned you and Nesta over with a curl of his finger. Nesta dragged you over to the couch, snuggling you between her and Eris’s massive frame. “We wanted to talk to you, dear heart.” You give Eris a curious look. 

Nesta cleared her throat, urging Eris to get to the point. “Your time with us is almost up. We wanted to know if you have given any thought to our deal.” You looked between the vampires and saw hope swimming in their eyes. They were tense. Scared you will choose to leave them. 

Seeing them like this solidified your answer. “I-I want to stay. I like it here with you two.” Nesta and Eris let loose a relieved breath. Nesta wrapped her arms around your middle, pulling you closer to her body. “Thank the Cauldron,” she whispered. You leaned into her, holding her back. 

Eris brushed a strand of your hair behind your rounded ear. “Lately I’ve been thinking about the future.” You admit. “I don’t think I could live without you two and wanted to ask if you’d be open to something?” Anticipation sparked in Eris’s amber eyes. Something in your gut told you he’s been waiting for this conversation. 

He was. And Nesta had made him swear not to speak about it unless you brought it up first. Not wanting to force this life on you like it had them. She wanted immortality to be your choice. 

“I want to be like you.” Hope shining in your eyes as you looked between them. “I want you to turn me into a vampire.” Eris cupped your face in his large hands, resting his forehead against yours. Your eyes fluttered closed at the comfort of his closeness. “Only if you are truly sure, dear heart.” 

You nod vigorously. “I’m sure,” you whisper. You felt one of Nesta’s fingers run up and down the side of your neck. Pressing her lips to your heated skin you felt Nesta’s wicked grin. “I know exactly where I’m going to bite first.”   

[decadentpostnachos-evil-twin]

This is why you can't have a discussion nowadays. People's narrative being "My opinion is the only opinion, Idc what you say you are wrong."

Bitch Honey, if you can't deal with someone else's opinion, maybe don't post shit in the internet for everyone to see.

You can't put up with morally dark characters who are actually morally dark and not trying to justify their actions.

Besides, the worst thing we actively see Eris do in all of the books is saying that Morrigan dresses like a slut and calling Cassian some slurs. Plus we know that he left Morrigan at the border without touching her (what was he supposed to do, take her to Beron? Srsly, use your brains people. Please.)

None of these things were nice.

But how does this in any way compare to slaughtering a whole village of people for revenge (Cassian)?

Or better yet, to leave a head on a spike in the garden of someone else for shits and giggles, be a ruler for centuries and yet not manage to stop women in your territory from being mutiliated, even though you call yourself the "most powerful High Lord to ever rule" or some shit. Or SA your apparent future wife, also just for fun because he could have left Feyre in the cell in acotar and no one would have given two shits except for Tamlin and Lucien who would have been worried for her. Stealing millenia old artifacts. Threatening to kill everyone who doesn't share your opinion, constantly and therefore jeopardizing an alliance against the main enemy. Keeping mass destruction weapons in your posession without telling anyone outside of your "family" about it. Misusing your wife and mate as a breeder and not even informing her about the fact that she will likely die in childbirth, instead leaving your sister in law to sacrifice the brunt of her own magic to safe her sister. Belittling a man dealing with heavy depression and PTSD for really no apparent reason other than your own petiness, telling him he should kill himself when he's at his lowest AFTER he saved your mates life, your life and essentially turned the tide in a war. And I could go on.

How are the narrative and part of the fandom able to find excuses for Rhysand's fucked up behaviour over and over and paint him the misunderstood hero, but Eris is evil incarnate because he did what again? Left Morrigan at the border, most likely knowing she would be found and taken care of (at the ripe age of...very much younger than her, too, mathematics say) and called Cassian a brute.

"Good to know that after five hundred years, you still dress like a slut." -Eris in acowar to Morrigan. This is him saying she dresses like a slut. Not calling her one.

I'm not trying to make excuses for Eris here. He's an asshole, I'm aware of it, and the absolute majority of his stans are aware of it. But that's about it. So if you make some post about "abusive men", and include Tamlin and Eris, then reflect on what fucked up shit your favs did. Because if saying someone dresses like a slut and leaving her lying around injured but untouched by you (when you have no responsibility for her state at all) is horrible and abusive, I'd like to know what you would call all the shit Rhysand pulled.

On the other hand, I'd like to say something about Neris shippers being racist, because I don't see how? I could honestly care less for how Cassian looks or his ethnicity, this is about him having literally no backbone and treating Nesta like shit throughout acosf when she was clearly not in a good place, mentally. If y'all wanna be degraded for having ugly trauma I can't help you. I liked Nessian in acowar, they had potential. But acosf? Nah.

[sad-scarred-sassy]

https://www.tumblr.com/sad-scarred-sassy/759755499789074432/just-saw-a-not-tagged-post-say-we-are-wrong-to?source=share

God, people don't even realize Nesta stated to hate Eris because she—hated—herself. She's seeing him as a reflection of her own flaws and all that makes her, quote-unquote, despicable as a person. She does not even know Eris as individual just yet, neither of them do. They just see the mask Nesta can perfectly read, mind you, cuz is the same that she wears everyday, which is exactly what give us a much bigger picture of the possible what‐if's between the two of them (is really not that difficult, sweeties. You don't need that much effort to understand 😂).

Love your blog, by the way! I hope you're doing incredibly today, xoxo.

Hey anon! This is exactly it. First of all I find it very icky that people take the stance of once again trying to shame others for shipping a non canon ship. I know by now that this fandom isn’t very good at behaving like a normal fandom but alas.

The Eris/Nesta ship is honestly one of the most logical ships for Nesta. Eris had a lot of involvement in her story and just like you said, their interactions and the way they are written leads you to see how they mirror eachother. I may someday deep dive into their paralells as characters. But just as you said, Nesta knows merely the mask that Eris is so clearly implied of wearing, just like she also wears a tough exterior.

I do believe that Neris as a ship also tries to fix the injustices that many people see in Nesta’s story, so that’s why people have a stronger opinion on it. But I will say that even if I don’t like Nessian’s dynamic (post ACOWAR) and I do believe Nesta deserved better, I won’t ever shame nessian shippers because thats just insane. Calm down.

I hope people extend the same etiquette 🫰🏼 Love you too anon!! Thank you for your message❤️

[viktoriaashleyyx]

Tw: Smut, blood play, hair pulling, choking.

This is smut 18+, the entire thing. It can probably stand on its own, and there is no story building if you wish to skip it, you won't miss anything.

This is a pro Tamlin, anti Rhysand self insert revenge fic. All characters belong to SJM, but she wasn't treating them right. Tam x reader, Tam x Rhysands Sister (OC), First person narrative. This will also reference Elucien and Neris in the future but we aren't there yet.

Please be nice this is the first smut I've ever written, but I am still open to criticism and I have tried to take the previous critics into consideration, I feel I am getting better ❤️

Ch1

Ch2 > Ch4

Chapter 3:

He dropped me down onto the soft bed, towering over me as I laid there, wings splayed out to each side, bare and giggly. He just looked at me for a few moments, drinking in the sight of me naked on his bed. My breast's squished under my forearms, with my hands folded under my chin, I gave him a cute little grin. “What?” I teased wrinkling my nose at him. Little laughs escaped as my anticipation and nerves grew.

“I just don't know what I did to be worthy of such a beautiful sight in front of me.” he breathed. The sight of him was breathtaking, his broad shoulders and gorgeous pecs defined even more by the shadows from the dancing candlelight. Those deep green eyes almost glowed.

“Well, I would argue that my view is better” I mocked, still pushing his buttons. He gave me a hungry smile as he leaned down on top of me, trailing kisses from my lips, my chin down my jaw, nipping, sucking. One hand on my breast pinching my soft nipple, the other holding himself up, with careful consideration as to not put too much weight on my wing. He knew what he was doing and he wasn't shy about it either. One of my hands threaded through his damp hair, the other softly scratching his back. He moved his way down my body, leaving little bite marks down my shoulder, collarbone, to my breast. He growled deeply, nipping and licking my nipple as his clawed hand slid carefully down my side, stopping to squeeze my hips, then for my inner thigh. Just the feeling of his hands on me sent shockwaves through my core. I was finally home, this is what I fought so hard for, and he was not disappointing.

My breathing grew heavy and I let out a moan as he drug his lips down my stomach to the other thigh, flinching as he bit down, and then kissed away the pain. I was already shaking, just from his touch and that seemed to please him. “Too much already for you, sweetheart?” His fingers began circling that spot, he knew just where to find it. Fuck, and he knows where to find it? Damn, I am a lucky one.

My eyes rolled back, “it just feels so good..” I whimpered. This was not my first time, but I had never been with someone who took the time to worship me like this. His fingers slid lower as his tongue took their place, entering me, one at a time. He seemed to find pleasure just in how wet I was.

“You look so beautiful, laying on my bed, enjoying yourself,” he said, not removing his lips from me. My hand still tangled in his hair, lightly scratching his scalp as he licked and sucked. “You taste so good, my love,” his fingers driving in and out. “Are you close already? You're such a good girl.” he curled his fingers up and pressed that spot I didn't even know was there. I cried his name out as I finished, he let out a delighted growl as he sucked my cum off his fingers.

He traveled back up my body, dragging his lips against my skin until I grabbed his chin and guided him to my mouth to share the taste. My hands trailed up his chest, to his biceps and with a quick movement I bucked my hips and flipped us over so that I was on top of him. Shock flashed on his face but it quickly turned to an amused low laugh. I could feel him pressed up against my entrance so I began grinding my hips against it, “what? You don't like the taste of your own medicine?” I asked innocently. He stared up at me with a try-me grin.

“I would say you're being naughty but you look oh so beautiful doing it, so you can get away with it, this time.” He drawled. Holding his gaze, with his hands on my hips, mine on his chest, I slowly lowered myself onto him. Fuck. He is so much bigger than I expected. His hand traveled up to my waist, the other gripping my breast as I moaned moving myself up and down, ever so slowly enjoying every inch.

“You feel so amazing, my love.” that was all I was able to mutter, the pleasure clouded all of my thoughts, it was just him.

“You're doing such a good job sweetheart, I love watching you ride me.” He watched me intensely, sliding his large hands down my skin softly scratching until they gripped my hips again, almost pulling me down onto him each time. When he decided he'd had enough he pulled me to his chest, and rolled us over without removing himself so that he was back in control. Good, I don't think I even know my own name right now. “Look at me.” I did as he commanded and stared deep into those emerald eyes. He picked up the pace, hitting that spot with every thrust. It hurt just the right amount. I whimpered and cried as I tried to maintain eye contact and it only seemed to encourage him further. “Are you going to cum again?”

I just shook my head yes, the pleasure building more and more.

“Look me in the eyes as you do, if you look away, I will stop. Understand?” I shook my head again, as he caught my nipple in his mouth and bit down hard before sucking it better, never losing his rhythm. We didn't break eye contact as I tightened around him. I was a puddle of pleasure and he loved every second of it. “That's my girl.”

He pulled out and flipped me over. My legs hanging off the bed as he stood behind me. “Now, my love, I would like to cum inside you, is that okay with you?” he asked as he pushed himself back in.

“Please, Please Tamlin.”

“Please, what, my love?”

“Please cum inside me.”

“Aw, I love when you use your manners like that. Okay sweetheart, as you wish.” It was even deeper this way, hitting that spot at just the right angle every time. The perfect mix of pleasure and pain. His unsheathed claws digging into my hips as he pulled me onto him again and again. Tears streamed down my cheeks as I gripped the comforter.

He grabbed a fistful of my hair and pulled me up to him, my back against his chest. He held me there with his forearm against my chest, and claws around my neck. I met his gaze for just a second before rolling my eyes back and smiling up at him. My favorite necklace. I felt my own blood drip down my neck where his claws pierced the skin, but I didn't care. “You are doing such a good job, sweetheart. Are you having fun?”

“I'm gonna cum again” I whimpered.

“I am close too, love” he growled, he sped up the pace and as I tightened again, I could feel his warm cum filling me up.

He stayed inside me for a moment or two, running kisses down my spine and on my wings. It was almost too much. Every touch, electric. Then he scooped me up, flipped me so that my chest rested on his, and laid back on the bed. I could feel him leaking out of me, dripping onto his lower abdomen, but neither of us cared. I was enjoying the pure ecstasy of just being in his arms, and coming down from my high. He kissed away the cuts on my neck from his claws and massaged my back as we drifted off to sleep together. We both had a long day.

♡♡♡♡♡♡

We spent the next week, in bed, teasing, taunting, touching and talking. It was an effort to leave the room just to get food.

“Tamlinnn.. we need to eat something.”

“I am eating, love.”

“No, real.. food..”

“This is the best meal I've ever had.”

“Brat.”

“It's not my fault you taste so good.”

As we talked we seemed to take turns, pleasuring the other.

As I laid there between his thighs, propped up on my elbows, I licked his shaft up and down. Trailed kisses down it, and sucked the tip. He was telling me silly stories of his time as a warrior and I was surely listening, he would trail off at times, just to watch me and I would encourage him to continue. “I'm listening, love, keep talking.” I would say sweetly as I continued playing with him.

We told each other stories of the time we spent apart. Silly stories of the nonsense he and Lucien would get into together, and of the friends I made along the way, and rough stories about how utterly alone we felt at times. We talked about the mistakes we made and the bad decisions that ended up hurting those we loved. I didn't share too much about the fighting and bloodshed, I wanted to leave that in the past.

But we also shared ideas of how to rebuild our court and heal ourselves.

Tag list: @rin-u-pos @ladythornofrivia @rcarbo1

[legendl0re]

A Court of Peace and Ire: Chapter 2 in full

Fuck it might as well post it here as well as AO3 xD

Summary:

Nesta, changed by her experiences with the Asteri, Bryce, and other worlds, has since resolved to get Prythian to where it needs to be should it have to face another threat. Stuck in a another dick-measuring contest between Eris and Cassian, the re-appearance of Tamlin offers her a chance to set things in motion.

Notes:

This one's for the Neris fans, and yes, Nesta is going to be the core of everybody getting their shit together over the course of this fic. Trigger Warnings: Mentions of ab*se, depression, and self-hatred (mainly on Nesta's part)

--

Nesta Archeron picked a small dandelion from the meadow, finding its vibrant yellow frills infinitely more interesting than the conversation going on behind her.

Once again, Rhys had urged Cassian to keep tabs on Eris, and once again, they had opted to take the risk of meeting in the Spring Court.

The two males yammered and bickered like they always did, Cassian’s incessant sneezing being the only thing to snap her out of her frequent distraction. Even with the risks that came from meeting here, Spring was a nice change of pace, a chance to get away from the Night Court’s chilling winds and the even chillier attitudes of the Inner Circle.

“Just keep us informed if Beron makes any new moves. If he tries to contact Koshei or the other mortal queens, or anything else.” Cassian was so tense veins were popping at his neck, but Eris seemed as unbothered as ever.

“Perhaps your little Shadowsinger should retire, since you’re so keen on having me do all of his work as of late.” The Illyrian practically snorted in anger, Eris chuckling to himself as he imagined himself conversing with a bat-winged bull. “As tempting as the alliance has been, I’m not privy to all of my father’s counsel. He’s become withdrawn, paranoid, and I have my own things to protect should he fall off the deep end.”

Nesta twisted the dandelion in her hand; it was just as likely that Eris was referring to his mother and brothers as he was to his hounds. She could never tell what he really valued despite these years of verbal sparring, but it was true that the High Lord of Autumn had grown volatile…unhinged even.

At the last High Lords meeting, the bruises they all knew he left on Eris’ mother had begun to peek out from under the collar of her dress. He was getting sloppy, or maybe he just didn’t care anymore. Perhaps he was going senile, or the constant stagnation of Autumn in comparison the Night Court’s burgeoning power was starting to worry him

Power that she herself had bought them.

Keeping the Trove’s presence in Velaris was a fool’s errand; their power could not be dampened, and legends don’t operate quietly. Everyone felt it when Nesta beckoned the harp, wrestled with death for her sister and nephew, and bargained with the cauldron itself. 

“The next time you come trying to spigot me for information, you better have something worthwhile. A dagger and the occasional dance is not enough.” 

Out of her peripheral vision, Nesta could see that Eris’ pointed look had been thrown her way. “Oh I’m sorry, were you addressing me?” She droned, her boredom clear and blunt. “I thought I was just supposed to stand here and look pretty while you two squabble. And we haven’t danced in months if I remember correctly.”

“Perhaps if I weren’t conversing with an oaf, we could get a lot more done.” Eris preened, turning his eyes to the treeline. Cassian growled and turned away, shadows already coiling to winnow back home.

“You do what you want, Eris! I’m tired of this holier-than-thou, my-wants-are-greater than-yours attitude.” The heir of Autumn chuffed.

“Hmph, and yet you still serve Rhysand.” The winnowing energy shot to nothing, Cassian getting inches away from Eris’ face in a flash.

“Keep it up and I’ll finish what Azriel started.” Eris didn’t balk an inch, still as ever even in the great shadow of the Illyrian Commander.

Nesta dropped the flower, and interposed herself between the two.

“Enough.” She ordered, meeting the gazes of both men before she sighed. “Cassian, I want to talk to Eris alone.” Her mate’s eyes went wide, brow furrowing so deep it threatened to crush his nose. But she laced the words with just enough venom that he halted, thinking of the myriad of ways she would dress the Autumn heir down.

“Are you sure?” He asked. 

“I’m sure.” Nesta smirked, appreciating how far he had come from feeling like he needed to always be there. The Blood Rite caused him to be around her almost every second of everyday, often bursting into arguments about how he was suffocating her. But then he remembered the Bog, and the sheer power of death that turned the hag queen Briallyn to dust.

Even with the bulk of her powers given back to the cauldron, Nesta Archeron was touched by death eternal, and he was ever her devout servant.

“Go, I’ll finish up here. Rhysand will probably want to hear about this sooner rather than later.” Cass nodded, kissing Nesta on the head and lips before vanishing into the shadows. Then Nesta let the smile fade, and armed herself for a different dance.

“Nice job, mentioning Rhys to put a pep in his step.” Eris crooned, earning himself a withering glare.

“Shut. Up. You’ve been doing nothing but antagonizing him from the moment we got here. Wasting all of our time.” Nesta watched as Eris slipped his hands in his pockets.

“I thought you weren’t paying attention.”

“That makes one of us.” Eris rolled his eyes, trying to weave past Nesta’s bladed words.

“What can I say? It’s fun to poke the bear. Especially since I can’t get any actual diplomacy done with him. What else am I supposed to do?”

“Was it fun when Azriel was pounding your face in?” Eris frowned at Nesta’s barb. “Because I promise you, Cassian hits a thousand times harder.” The heir kept his scowl for a moment, then burst into a laugh.

“Trust me Lady Acheron, I’m not worried. Rhysand has him by the back of the neck and you have him by the balls. He won’t jump unless either of you flick the leash.” Nesta crossed her arms, half wondering how bad a slap to the face laced with silver flame would hurt.

But she reeled her thought back in. “And now he isn’t here, which means that we can actually get down to business. Unless you're keen on pressing the issue.” Eris, with his back to her, let his fingers interlock behind her.

“You know what? I do have an issue I’d like to address. Your cowardice.” Nesta blinked, unimpressed but mildly curious at what he meant.

“This will be good. Go on?”

“I thought we had a good rapport at Rhysand’s little party at the Hewn City. You know, the one where he let the masses scent Feyre nice and deep?” Nesta felt her anger crackle, but kept her lips pursed. “I heard what you had said about me, about deserving me because of how horrible a person I am. A brute and a piece of shit I believe were the words used?”

“How do yo-?”

“Rhys thinks he's the only one with a spymaster worth a damn.” Eris’ withering glare would have left a lesser woman prickling, but Nesta just clicked her tongue.

“Oh. Did I hurt your feelings?” She mocked.

Eris sighed, his face donning a weary smile. “No. I just would have figured the woman who stood up for the humans so fiercely wouldn't have fallen for cheap Night Court gossip, nor would she have such a low opinion of herself.” Nesta almost winced, remembering the comparison she had made.

The harshness of those days came soaring back to her: the back and forth with Cassian, the rage and hatred she felt for herself, and of course, Rhys’ sudden willingness to put up with her if it put the Night Court in a better position.

With how good he was at staging her for his political gain, she had thought he’d broken into her memories and taken notes.

Still, Eris had an immense amount of nerve to whine, and Nesta stepped forward with her teeth bared. “Let’s not pretend you give a damn about my self-esteem Eris, and you hunting after my sister and your brother isn’t gossip, and neither is what you did to Morrigan.”

“Since when have you ever given a damn about Mor?” The fae laughed, shaking his head. “Although, it’s good to know that she still hasn’t told the truth.” Eris let that hang in the air, taking in a deep breath of the spring wind. Nesta’s arms fell at her sides, watching as the viper’s mask Eris Vanserra wore slowly chipped away, as if blown down by the softness of the air.

“That did hurt your feelings, didn’t it?”

“I suppose I was more disappointed. I thought you were different from those sycophants Rhysand surrounds himself with, your sisters included. That you knew, there is always more than meets the eye.” Eris turned to have her and swallowed, and Nesta actually narrowed her eyes. He was nervous; genuinely nervous…

“I wasn’t kidding when I said I would marry you in a heartbeat, Nesta, and it’s certainly not because you look excellent in black or because you somehow managed to learn expert-level fae dance routines in a few weeks. I wouldn’t have made it this far if I was that vapid.” Eris had closed the distance between them, his eyes intense with smoldering flame.

“Males of Autumn are taught to be frank, not to waste our time when it comes to our true desires. We say what we feel, and we take what we want, and I very much want you.” 

“Even after I insulted you so?” Nesta scoffed, feigning mild interest despite actually being shocked.

“I’m a big boy, Nesta, and unlike Rhysand, I understand that the image I’ve cultivated for myself comes with consequences.” Eris began pacing around her in slow, playful steps. “From that first meeting, I could tell you took things seriously, fought with every word you had to keep your people safe. While Rhysand and his High Lady pleaded and appealed to some misplaced sense of heroic morality, you were pragmatic, used reason, and looked to our self interest to guide our decisions.” He leaned in, letting Nesta feel the warmth of Autumn in his presence. That’s what a true ruler does.”

“How observant of you.” Nesta replied, taken aback by the words but remaining guarded all the same. Autumn was a home to many a sly fox after all.

 And of course, ever the sly fox, Eris changed his tactics to keep things interesting. “You were supposed to rule your own little court once, correct? An inheritance waiting for you in the mortal lands.” Nesta rolled her eyes.

“Please. Continue to remind me of what I lost.” Eris raised a brow, ignoring the bait. “The humans would never have a fae rule over them, and I��m pretty sure the other nobles have worked with the queens to cannibalize my father’s fortune.” 

The ships and soldiers he bought were the last Nesta would ever see of it; her father’s presence in the world reduced to a gravestone and the memories she and her sisters would carry forever.

“A shame. I would have loved to have seen what you could have done with such wealth and power on your own, unshackled by the chains of family.” 

Nesta narrowed her eyes at the word; did Eris know what happened to her? About the House of Wind and the tensions between her and her sisters. And why in the Mother’s name was he bringing it up now in the middle of what was essentially a love confession?

“How do you know all this anyway? You’re spies can’t be that good.” Nesta prodded.

“Trust me. They are, but it certainly helped that Bryallin was quite thorough in her research of you. I got a peak at her thoughts while she ‘had me under her spell’.” Eris grinned as he unbuttoned his coat, moving the lapel to reveal the dagger—her dagger—strapped at his hip. “I should thank you, but the way. Your blade kept my mind from breaking under the weight of the crown.”

Nesta tensed as the heir of Autumn reached for the knife, but relaxed as he unbuckled it and handed it to her. “You can have it back if you wish. I took it out of respect for Rhys’ attempts at winning my favor, but it very much wishes to return to its maker.”

More questions roved over Nesta’s mind. Did he know that she had lost the majority of her powers too? The weapons she had Made each still carried great amounts of that original essence, yet only Ataraxia remained hers. This offering could be both an implication that Autumn knows Nesta lacks her past strength, but maybe it was also genuine.

“Keep it. You might need it again.” It was true, but also Nesta didn’t want Rhysand to have all of the things she had made. They thought they were being subtle but the Inner Circle had always been keen to pry what was hers away for their own benefit, be it the weapons, the Trove, her identity.

She supposed that things had improved with them since she and Cassian officially ordained themselves as mates, having a small ceremony whose mix of extravagance and modesty was a careful negotiation between the two of them: small enough that Cassian wouldn’t be teased by his brothers for eternity, but big enough that Nesta felt like she would remember it forever.

And she would; it was the first step towards accepting her role in all of this, towards making peace with the fact that she was now fae, and no longer human…

Yet still, she couldn’t entirely shake the stares, the judgment. Amren had opted for an indifferent peace between them, but their old days of training and dropping bits of thousand-year-old wisdom had long since ceased. Azriel was always his kind, quiet self, always reaching out and checking in when he could. Then there was Morrigan, brown eyes alight with fury every time she glanced at her and Cassian together. 

Mother forbid both Cassian and Azriel talk to her at the same time, lest the blonde’s head go up in flames.

Nesta had long since resolved that she was good enough for Cassian, that she did deserve his love and her peace despite what she had done. But between Morrigan’s clear disdain, Rhys’ constant shifting between hot and cold, and her mate’s often blunt refusal to defend her in most situations, it seems the family that this Circle claimed to be was only for her sisters.

She supposed that was why she opted to make her own, with Gwyn and Emerie.

“My offer still stands.” Eris boasted, snapping Nesta out of her rumination.

“What? Of marriage?” She guffaws. “Please.”

“Already fully bonded to the brute then?” Nesta turned to him, letting a little silver blaze through her eyes.

“You call him anything but his goddamned name one more time, this conversation is over.” Eris paused, then backed off, taking her seriously.

Perhaps that was the strange appeal of it all, this little dance they did. He actually took her at her word.

“Is it so hard to envision?” He said. “You, in vibrant autumn red, a crown of gilded leaves on your head.”

“Your father spending every waking moment plotting my demise?”

“I never knew you to be one to back down from a challenge, and my father would be a fool to even hope to wrestle with you.” Eris gently took her hand in his, and watched as she let him bring it to his lips. “I myself would find it the utmost pleasure, and in truth, I believe you would be an exemplary queen, no matter whose court you ruled. I humbly pray to the Mother that you would grace mine.”

He pressed his lips to her knuckle, and Nesta couldn’t help but stir slightly at the heat of his lips warming the skin. Perhaps she should have let Cassian stay. “There’s not a single humble thing about you, Eris Vanserra.”

“True.” He said, letting go of her hand. “I very much will enjoy bragging about being one to kiss the hand of death.” The two stood there for a moment, eyes locked like two fires struggling to snuff the other out. Nesta’s hands had balled into fists behind her, embarrassed at how Eris of all people was getting to her.

It was just words, grand claims he would never live up to, all to worm his way deeper into the Night Court and get whatever it was he really wanted.

Nesta had Cassian—loved Cassian. He may not have been willing to stand up to Rhys, or actually said that he loved her. But it was more real than whatever dream Eris Vanserra was trying to sell her, and she would not be another Lady of Autumn.

No, silver flames would rip the Autumn Court apart before she ever let that happen.

Eris’ gaze broke first, whipping to something behind her, something that had urged him to unsheath her dagger and call an orb of flame into his other hand. Nesta turned to see, and lumbering through the trees in gilded, horned splendor, was the High Lord of Spring.

“I warned you about what would happen the next time you trespassed into my lands.” Tamlin growled, green eyes spearing the two as his claws dug into the earth beneath him. Eris just smirked.

“If you’ve finally set on cutting your life short, High Lord, I do appreciate that you’d do it in a fashion that grants my Court a lovely expansion.” Tamlin’s lips parted, revealing ivory teeth the size of daggers.

“An expansion you wouldn’t live to see.” He snarled, taking a step forward that thundered into the earth, sending birds fleeing from the trees. Heart pounding, Nesta shot a hand up, turning to face Eris with a grave scowl.

“I’m not dying in the Spring Court because of your stupid fucking remarks.” She muttered, before turning back to face Tamlin. “We were just leaving.”

“Until your next little get together, witch?” He replied, tail still swishing in anticipation of Eris’ next barb. It nearly left his lips, until Nesta blocked his way.

“Leave, Eris.” She demanded. “I’ll deal with this myself.”

“You think Cassian would let me live if I left you here alone, with him?” Nesta scoffed, the modicum of respect she had just developed for Eris vanishing.

“Did you not just profess your undying respect for me, or has that all gone out the window now that a monster has shown up? Are you going to protect little old me, Eris?” Nesta laid the mockery on thick, and the Heir of Autumn indeed found himself in an awkward position. Leaving Nesta with Tamlin was unwise, and Cassian would indeed flay him living if he found out he left her here with her sister’s tormentor. 

But if Nesta believed she could handle it…

“I hope you know what you’re doing.” He whispered, sheathing the knife and winnowing away in one fluid movement. Nesta sighed, relieved that she could now dictate the conversation without pig-headed males puffing up their chests.

What was it Bryce had called them? ‘Alpha-holes?’

“Protecting your little alliance?” Tamlin growled, emerald eyes now trained firmly on the eldest Archeron.

“You’re operating under the assumption that I want to deal with you at all, much less fight you.” The beast narrowed his gaze at her. “I don’t need Eris riling you up, and frankly, this is actually a good opportunity.”

“For what?” The High Lord prodded, head tilting to the side in confusion.

“I know what you did for Nyx.” Nesta stated, keep her tone neutral and her hands at her sides. Tamlin paused, caught off-guard with denial already poised on his lips. Quickly, she cut him off. “Feyre was searching for him for hours. She knows that house like the back of her hand and still couldn’t find him anywhere. That, and you left shavings on his pajamas.” 

Tamlin grunted at himself. How could he be so stupid as to leave his gods-damned sheddings about?

“And what do you have to say about it?” He grumbled, bracing for Nesta’s near-mythical rapier wit.

“How about thank you?” He blinked again, half inclined to check his ear to ensure nothing was in it. “Rhysand might be knocking on your door sometime soon, so I figured I’d show my gratitude before he mucks it all up.”

 “Gratitude for what? He’s not yours.” Tamlin replied, looking down as he scraped his claw against the ground.

“He’s my nephew.” And a chance to have someone in the family who doesn’t despise her on some level. At least, she hoped that would be the case; Rhysand was a master of pouring just the right amount of honey and poison to craft a specific vision, and she often found herself lamenting about how one day, the happy Nyx—who she gave up her powers to save along with Feyre—would disdain her for all the Inner Circle held her accountable for. 

But that worry was reserved for another day.

“You’re…different.” The High Lord noted, finally shifting from his prep to lunge to a seated position. “You’re not as…bad-tempered.” 

Nesta practically laughed; what a nice way to say ‘not as much a vicious bitch’.

“Things change, High Lord. I’ve recently learned the world is much bigger than we think, and that all this scheming and politicking on this pitiful little continent is nothing more than a waste of time.” Nesta thought back to just a short time ago, about Bryce and her world, the Asteri, her time with Ember and the small kindnesses Bryce’s mother had offered. The squabbling here in Prythian left it weak, vulnerable, and it was by Nesta’s blind faith alone that Bryce had the chance to take on the Asteri and save both of their realms.

She had resolved to start getting things back on track a long time ago, and if that meant dealing with her sister’s vicious ex-lover—be it solving things diplomatically or mowing him down for someone else to take his place—then so be it.

Gwyn and Emerie urged her to give the former a try before the latter; taking on the Blood Rite was one thing, but as strong as they were together, taking on a High Lord was a fool’s errand, even for people as seasoned as Cassian or Azriel.

 “Your court borders the mortal lands, meaning like it or not, you’re an arbiter of what comes in and what goes through. I may be fae now, but I still care about the humans, and while it may not look like it, I engage in these meetings out of a hope that I can get something out of it that will let me help them in some way.”

Tamlin gave a hollow laugh. “Eris Vanserra and the Autumn Court are the last people to ever give a damn about humans.”

“I know, that's why it’s important to keep an eye on them the most.” Tamlin blinked at Nesta’s claim. “When you’re gathering allies or resources that are sympathetic to your cause, that doesn’t mean you ignore your biggest opposition. I figured a High Lord would know that.” The beast bristled at her last comment, but Nesta reeled her fangs back in. 

“And despite what you may have done to my sister after she di-,” She paused to correct herself, “After she changed, I remember that you filled our father’s coffers and let us regain our nobility, when you could have left us out in the cold to starve and die. You let Feyre come back to us, even though it meant eternal imprisonment for you and your people. And you made sure Nyx got back from his little adventure safe and sound.”

Nesta brushed a hair behind her ear. “A person who does all that can’t be all bad.”

Tamlin glanced down at the grass, thinking hard on Nesta’s words. Nesta’s. Supposedly the most vicious of the Archeron sisters. This whole conversation was almost surreal, and he felt a strain in his chest that felt an awful lot like…hope?

“I’m going to go now.” Nesta stated, waiting for a reaction before calling her powers to winnow her away. If Tamlin still pounced on her after all this, she was going to be really disappointed.

But no. Tamlin simply let his stare rise to meet hers again, before turning to walk away. “Have your meetings somewhere else.” He murmured, Nesta chuffing as the shadows carried her back to the Night Court.

[peachviz]

I finally finished Voyager so you know what that means.

It’s a Voyager Wrap Up and notes party:

(Beware: hot takes ahead)

- I like and I hate this show. It was my slowest watch. I should have probably started with this instead of DS9 bc as you all know nothing can top DS9 and when you start out with the best meal nothing can compare. But tbh I don’t know if it would have made a difference.

- There’s a problem with this show that I’ve noticed that it’s a common problem within Star Trek as a whole. This one was just noticeable. There’s parts where they build up plots and characters and then half way through they just give up.

Kes was the biggest atrocity, they couldn’t figure out what to do with her so they give up on her and replace her with a new shiny toy. Won’t even get into the misogyny of the situation, we are all aware I don’t have to keep beating a dead horse. (Also aware of the hostile situation on set I’m not interested in that debate)

Chakotay is another example. He starts to lose lines and he kind of just floats. Tuvok is another big one. Because why tf did I have to sit through more Neelix focused episodes than Tuvok???????

Like the writers constantly do this but it’s so noticeable with this series. It’s like Patrick trying to open Sandy Cheeks’s door in SpongeBob and he just holds his hands over the door and goes, “Open Seasme!” The door doesn’t open and he shrugs and goes “Well, I’ve done all I can do.” That’s the writers of this show.

- while on the topic of Neelix. Here’s a hot take. What an incredibly pointless and annoying character. He made a lot of episodes unwatchable. Kes and Neelix have to be the worst poison I’ve ever ingested from Star Trek as a whole and I had to sit through TNG sexism and somehow this pairing was the worst. How incels feel about JarJar Binks is how I feel about Neelix. If you like him, great. If you don’t like him, let’s hug.

- there is something about this show that I feel they do better than DS9 and that is mental health episodes. It’s so subtle and there doesn’t have to be a lot of theatrics. While DS9 is good at portrayal, there are things that Voyager does with the Doctor, Seven, and even B’Elanna that I found the most relatable

- which btw B’Elanna is like super relatable it’s almost scary. I love Kira Nerys, she’s still my all time favorite, but I find myself gravitating to being like B’Elanna. I feel like she had the best character development besides Seven. Now granted, she can do some really selfish fucked up shit. Like the Doctor’s holofamily, etc, but I find her character refreshing. This show needed that.

- Seven of Nine. Idk what to say to make everything fit so here’s a lightning round. The cat suit is fucking annoying. We had to have Gene Roddenberry dying to get Deanna Troi in a real uniform and then we have the goodness of DS9 just to have the men be like “we need to bring back sexy” and then bring this wonderful character just to keep her in a cat suit. A suit, btw, that she doesn’t even want to be in bc in all her holo fantasies she’s either in a uniform, pants, or literally anything else. And don’t even get me started on Chakotay and Seven. What an odd paring with zero chemistry. It felt almost fatherly and then that shit happens bc they had to dispel the J/C shit and I think it was along the lines of Beltran getting tired of Chakotay being a “chump”. ??? Idk if that’s the exact quote but like boooooo that’s boring. It’s just ew no thanks.

- but seven is a wonderful character and if there weren’t so many men in the writing room then we could have had it all. Looking forward to seeing what Picard retcons

- Janeway is an amazing captain and I’m glad we have a complicated female captain but this goes along with my first topic. For the first four seasons, until she cuts her hair, there’s still too many cooks in the kitchen. You have her naked somehow multiple episodes per season until 4 (?) and then she has that dumbass governess holo program. Like by the time she has her hair cut, we could have just had all that from the start. Everyone say thank you Kate Mulgrew

- lastly, I’m glad that J/C didn’t become canon while they were away bc sometimes yearning is hotter than having. Kate Mulgrew stating that it was inappropriate for an office place romance bc young girls shouldn’t have to see (once again generalizing a quote) is totally valid. And tbh I feel like it would be a distraction to Janeway specifically

Idk in closing it’s an alright watch. It wasn’t really spectacular to me anyway. There were a lot of good parts, but I feel like it lost steam midway through season 6 and a lot of it was rocky. I could just be getting Star Trek fatigue.

Picard is next and then Prodigy. Probably won’t even go near Enterprise and I’ll be doing an actual rewatch of discovery to finish it. And another rewatch of lower decks bc now I’ll be able to understand it in total. So the Rankings below will exclude prodigy, ent, Picard, and discovery.

Current Series Ranking:

1) Deep Space Nine

2) Strange New Worlds

3) The Original Series

4) Lower Decks

5) Voyager

6) The Next Generation

Current Captain Ranking:

1) Sisko

2) Janeway

3) Pike

4) Kirk

5) Picard

6) Freeman

Anyway, I have two voyager edits to get off the ground and my notes app looks like the Bible so getting this footage is going to be super time consuming.

Now onto Picard

[stuff-i-found-while-crying]

A stage of fire and dreams (2)

inspired by @ gwandas and they post: modern Neris AU where Eris is a trust fund asshole at Harvard Law, Nesta is a professional ballerina with the Boston Ballet

Second part! They meet and then they meet some more....

Part 1 - I changed Odette to Giselle because I got confused... but it was meant to be Giselle.

Also! English is my second language and I might accidentally messed it up.... just believe that my writing would be better in German and we can be friends (also not really proof read, because it's just for fun and giggles)

WITHOUT FURTHER ADO! PLEASE ENJOY THE SHOW

main role: Eris (xNesta)

also appearing: his mother, his younger brother, Nesta, her mother, a theater owner

Chapter 2 - red shoes

As glamoures the stage was, as messy was it backstage.

Eris followed his mother who was following Mr. Heartfelt. The man was as colourful as his theater and he was talking constantly while finding his way between costums, exhausted dancers and the smell of sweat.

Cyrus brushed up to Eris and whispered. "Bet I can get ten numbers tonight?"

"Just be back before we leave."

And with that his brother was gone, off to find the chorus girls. Eris did not care. His mind was on one woman.

Giselle.

Or Nesta Archeron, as the dancer was called. Would she be as enchanting as her character?

Suddenly Eris felt a rush of anxiety go through his blood. He pushed his shaking hands down into his pockets and tried for a neutral smile.

"We got lucky to find her", Mr. Heartfelt was babbling. "I already thought we had to go over budget, but then her manager called us and begged for a chance to audicion. And she was brilliant. But do not tell her I said that. She will expect more money if I start praising."

His mother furrowed her eyebrows. "Is the theater in need of money again? I thought with my last donation the budget for the year was almost dubbled."

Mr Heartfelt, realizing his mistake, turned to her and grapped her hands in his. "And it was. You are the most generous patreon we could ever hoped for. But most of the budget was needed for renovations. The Bathrooms, I am sure you noticed the new design."

Eris snorded.

"And we were able to get the most famous director Lucy Sky to come and stay with us for two plays."

Eris watched his mother relax. Her smile returned and he burried his hands deeper in his pockets. The smell of hairspray and sweat, the chatter of the people cleaning up and all the doors to uncertain rooms, he started to feel dizzy. With a small cough he got Mr. Heartfelts attention and raised an eyebrow.

"We are not here, to listen to your budget plan", he said.

"Of course", the man swipped away the sweat on his forhead and continued his way.

"Be nice", his mother said quietly to Eris.

"I am always nice."

She reached for his arm and pulled his hands out of his pocket. "Just a couple of minutes."

He wanted to lie. Anything to get her gaze away. But she saw him. And so he nodded and took a deep breath.

"Where is your brother?"

That lie was easy. She would know the truth anyway.

"Waiting in the car."

At the end of the hall Mr. Heartfelt knocked on a door.

"Nesta? You have visitors."

Eris felt his heart almost burst. His Giselle would open this door.

But it was not Giselle. Although the woman who pulled the door open and almost of it's hinges looked like her, but older. Honey blonde curls and piercing grey eyes starred them down.

"This is Mrs. Aurora Vanserra and her son", Mr. Heartfelt introduced them. "They are esteamed patreons of my theater."

The woman smiled immediatly. "What an honour. Please come in. My daughter will be delighted."

Her daughter did not look delighted. In fact Nesta Archeron looked like an arrow, ready to shoot anyone who got on her nerves.

She was still in costume, her shoes clonking with every step and her long hair swipping around her back. The make up had not survived the performance and the eyeliner was mixed with sweat.

To Eris she looked unhinged like the door almost was.

He loved it.

"Pleased to meet you", she said to his mother.

"Oh my dear", Aurora Vanserra looked like a proud aunt. For a second Eris thought she would hug Nesta, but then she just offered her hand. "You were magnificent. Absolutely perfect. I have never cried so much during Giselle. Eris too."

All eyes on him, Eris coughed. "Your first time dancing in the center?"

Nesta squared up her shoulders. "I am always the center."

Oh, he was in trouble. The grey of her eyes would hunt him for days, he was sure of it. He had never felt drawn to another person. But Nesta Archeron was pulling him in without even trying.

"My daugther has worked hard to be here", Nestas mother put an arm around her daughter. For a second Nesta froze. Then she pressed her lips together and lowered her head. But her mother was squeezing her harder until she lifted her gaze again. "Even as a child she had the graze and determination of a true Ballerina."

"I hope to see you in more plays soon", his mother said.

Before Nesta could open her mouth her mother was already answering. "That depends on Mr. Heartfelt. He has all the power." With a whistful sigh she looked at the man.

"Where did you learn to dance", Eris asked Nesta, just to hear her voice again.

"New York", her mother answered for her again.

"What part of it do you enjoy the most?"

Again her mother answered: "The performances of course."

"Actually", Nesta took a step to the side, finally freeing herself from the clutches around her shoulder. "I like the music the most."

"Performance, music. Isn't that the same?"

Mother and daughter starred each other down.

"It is not." Nesta stock out her chin, provocing her mother to fight infront of them.

Eris wanted to pull her behind him, protect her from the woman who looked at her like she was just a small girl and not the woman who enchanted an entire audience. But something in her gaze held him back. She was not delicate like Giselle. She was not mad. And she would not appreciate him over stepping.

He would have to find a different way to her, to spend time by her side, to her heart.

"It is late", his mother said and smiled. "It was an honour to meet you."

Mrs. Archeron wanted to say something more, probably try to charm his mother, but Eris raised an eyebrow and starred her down. "My brother is waiting", he agreed with her.

"Of course", Mr. Heartfelt looked to Mrs. Archeron. "Might we discuss the further performance plan in my office?"

What a show. Eris was sure that he only said it, because his most beloved Patreon was standing right next ot him.

He needed to get out of here.

He needed to get his mother far away from this woman.

He wanted to take Nesta with him.

They all left Nesta in her dressing room. Mr. Heartfelt took Mrs. Archeron to his office and Eris guided his mother to the car park.

"What a lovely girl", she said. "She will be a famous ballerina one day, i can feel it."

He patted his pockets. "I forgot my phone", he said.

Confused his mother turned to him. Then her eyes softened and she grinned. "Hurry, your brother is waiting."

Eris jogged back down the hall to Nestas dressing room and knocked.

There was shuffeling. Then she opened the door a little and peered out. When she recognized him she huffed. "Did you forget something?"

He smiled at her. "The flowers."

"Obvioulsly."

"And your number."

At that her eyes found his and she opened the door a bit more. He had interupted her in the middle of taking of her shoes. The blood on her toes seeped through her whites tights.

"I dont give my number to strangers."

His heart beat faster. Never had a woman been so stubborn with him. And still he felt more alive than ever. There was a spark in her that he wanted to see grow. He wanted to witness the spark becoming a wild fire and devouring the world.

"Then let me give you my number", he pulled out a business card.

She bit her lower lip. The lipstick blood red and smudged. Eris hadn't known Ballerinas looked more alluring after a performance.

"A lawyer?" she read the card surprised. 

"For Finance and Business", he leaned against the door frame.

She studied the card. "You work for your family?"

"For my father", he nodded.

For a moment they looked at each other and he saw her walls come down.

"Mr. Vanserra", her mother was coming down the hall. Nesta took a step back, her walls back in place.

"Call me", he whispered to Nesta. "For anything."

She said nothing, only pierced him with her eyes.

Eris turned, nodded politely to her mother and then hurried back to the car. On the way out he stumbled into Cyrus.

"Eleven", his brother grinned at him, showing him proudly the numbers saved in his phone. "And you?"

Minus one, Eris thought. But he just pulled his brother out of the theater. "Mother is waiting."

Finally he breathed fresh air. The car ride home was quiet. His mother was humming softly next to him, while his brother was already texting the chorus girls.

Eris closed his eyes. His heart was still beating fast. And it would beat like that by every phone call he got, always in hope Nesta Archeron would call him. It took her three days.

___

Part 3 - Cinderella

as a dancer I love writing realistic backstage/bloody feet :)

[victimsofyaoipoll]

Round 1

Propaganda Under Cut

Nyota Uhara

She's Spock's canon partner in AOS, and I get it because they're not a great couple, but she gets villianized in fic so much. They constantly make her an asshole (which totally has nothing to do with her being black /sarcasm) and abusive just for the crime of dating a man headcanoned as gay. And I mean, I think Spock is gay and her being a love interest was unnecessary but still! She's cool!

Oh my god so in the Star Trek reboot she’s Spock’s girlfriend and the fandom has no idea what to do with her??? Like she is ALWAYS either such a bitch or like the mom friend? And there is so much more to her character than that? But they always break down her character AND find a quick and easy way to break up her and Spock. I’m not even mad at that but at least treat their relationship with some weight instead of just being like ‘it never mattered’. People can love multiple people throughout the course of their lives. You know that right? Just because you loved someone before doesn’t make your new love any less special. And even headcanoning Spock as gay… you realize he doesn’t need to be attracted to Uhura for their relationship to have mattered, right? Even if he confused friendship for romantic attraction, him feeling such strong friendship and openly expressing it is so monumental for him!!! 

she's dating Spock, who people ship with Kirk, so fans have decided that it's horrible writing and "really, they're just defending her, the movies turned her into just a love interests," which is not at all true. The movies do so much more for her to the point that the fans who have only seen the movies think that the main characters are Kirk, Spock, and Uhura instead of the Kirk, Spock, McCoy of the original series. Also having a black women being shown as being desired and loved in mainstream media, particularly by one of the most popular characters of all time, is a good thing, not making her "just a love interest"

Keiko O'Brien

Certain People I Could Name insist on shipping her husband with the annoying twink doctor Julian Bashir because of the friendship they develop over the series. I maintain that O'Brien would never cheat on his wife, let alone with another man, and the response is often "they're in a polycule together!!!" which is even more out of character. Everyone please show my girl Keiko some more respect 😤

Wife of chief engineer Miles O'Brien, who is shipped with the chief medical officer, Julian Bashir. Show itself veered into misogyny regarding her and her marriage, manifesting as Miles constantly complaining about her and her encouraging him to go hang out with Julian and leave her and their daughter alone. Fandom responded to this by creating the "O'Brien polycule" including Keiko, Miles, Julian, and first officer Kira Nerys (who has another strange semi-romantic subplot with both O'Briens). Really, though, it just exists to have Julian/Miles without reckoning with Miles having to cheat to get there. I, too, was guilty of this in the past. Keiko had the potential to be a very interesting character (and started to be, early in the show) but it was never realized. She deserved better :(

keiko is a lovely lady and astrobotanist who had a whole romance with and married the more main character miles obrien but now frequently people sideline her to (semi-jokingly?) ship miles with his friend julian. she’s not the best written character and she deserved so much more from the narrative, but it still feels weird that the fan joke about her is always how much she is constantly encouraging her husband to cheat on her (which to be fair does happen a few times but not That much)

[alittlewordy]

Prompted Writing: What We Can Reclaim [Elim Garak x Julian Bashir (Garashir) Star Trek DS9 Fan Fiction]

Prompt: I wish things were different [x]

Word Count: 911

Warnings: None

Characters: Julian Bashir, Kira Nerys, Elim Garak

Summary: A decade after the events of What We Leave Behind, Julian receives a response from Garak that makes him nostalgic for what was and could have been. Despite the pangs of loss, he moves forward with day-by-day life on Deep Space Nine. Then, diplomacy outside his control gives him more than he could have imagined.

Read on AO3

---

In short: yes, my dear doctor, if matters were different, I do believe our relationship could have been more romantic. Perhaps, in time, we will have an attempt at something similar in our own ways.

Weeks passed since Julian received that response. It still hurt.

Julian tried to find solice in work, in reports that didn't matter and research that made his mind wander to the letter he tried to avoid. Unfortunately, Garak's words summoned shadows. Julian saw Garak in the infirmary, the replimat, the promenade, the habitat ring, his quarters, the dark of his bedroom, behind closed eyes, anywhere, everywhere. This led to an unruly beard, unkempt hair, late nights awake with sleep unreachable. Still, he kept his routine. He worked, he ate, he bathed, he went to bed. Each day bled into the next, a never-ending torment brought on by one question better left unasked. Julian needed something different.

Then, reprieve.

Kira called him in his quarters. She needed help. She asked him to wear his dress uniform and meet her in the upper pylon docking port as soon as possible.

Julian kept the beard peppered with white, but trimmed off the fly-aways. His hair was less forgiving, but he managed tame most of the wild strands by running his hands through his hair the full way to Kira's location.

She was alone at one of the docks. At his approach, she turned to face him, her own clothes professional, hair curled, smile present.

"Thank you for doing this," Kira said.

"Of course, but what am I doing here?"

"The Cardassians have a new council and they're sending someone as a liaison. They want this liaison to live on the station to help build a partnership between themselves and the Bajorans. I want you here to show them that members of the Federation are still present, just in case their intentions are less than civil."

"Starfleet didn't tell me anything about this."

"We didn't tell them."

Julian's eyes widened. "What?! Why?!"

"We didn't know how this meeting would go. We don't want the Federation to force us into a decision we're not comfortable with if the meeting goes poorly. I see them."

Julian peered out of the dock doors. Sure enough, a Cardassian model shuttle drove into the dock with precision Julian expected of military personnel. Julian swallowed and tucked his hands behind his back, below the hem of his white dress jacket. His eyes remained on the dock doors.

"I will do what I can to assist you, Colonel," he said.

"Glad to hear it."

The shuttle locked into place outside the closed dock doors. A hiss sounded as pressure in that connection balanced. Once it stopped, the shuttle shut off. The ambient lights left on outlined the shadow of a Cardassian inside.

Then, the doors opened.

Julian's breath caught. His shoulders tensed. The words of the letter ran in his mind as he stared at the Cardassian that stepped into the docking ring. Their hair was white, eyes circled with more wrinkles, but the blue eyes stayed sharp, the body poised.

"Garak," Julian whispered.

Those blue eyes flicked to him and the Cardassian smiled. It was soft, a reflection of those passed between them all those years ago. "Hello, my dear doctor."

Julian beamed, closed the gap betwen them, and wrapped his arms around Garak's shoulders. Garak's arms were quick to circle around him. Hands rested on Julian's lower back.

"What are you doing here?" Julian asked. He leaned back from their hug, but kept his hands on Garak's shoulders. His face already hurt from how much he smiled.

"I was invited by the Cardassian Council and Colonel Kira to be Cardassia's liaison."

"Invited?" Julian gave a puzzled frown and looked to Kira, who smiled at him in return.

"It was the council's idea," she said, "I had to agree because I couldn't stand to see you pouting."

"I wasn't pouting!"

Julian felt Garak's thumb rub against his back and he was sure he felt the Cardassian chuckle, even though the sound was non-existent. Kira looked to Garak then, Julian's protest ignored.

"Your old quarters are taken, so we prepared the room next to Julian's. We also freed up your old shop space, as requested."

"Thank you, Colonel."

Kira took her leave. Julian realized their embrace continued all that time and attempted to pull from Garak's arms to give the Cardassian space. Garak's arms remained. Julian peered and took in that polite smile once more.

"It has been far too long," Garak said, "Yet you haven't aged a day."

Julian smiled again. "I don't know about that. The gray-"

"It suits you."

"As it does you."

Garak tilted his head and the smile grew a fraction. "Thank you, Doctor."

"Still sticking with titles?" Julian asked, his voice carrying a teasing lilt.

"We are intended to be in a discussion regarding the future partnership with Bajor. Titles are a requirement during such conversations."

"As the neutral party overseeing this discussion, titles are not necessary with me. I insist you call me Julian."

"Julian." Garak paused as if to taste his name on his lips. Julian bit back the grin that wanted to spread across his face. "I suppose I can make an exception. Though, if we are to discard formalities between us, please call me Elim."

Julian couldn't help the grin. "Of course. It's wonderful to see you, Elim."

"As it is to see you, my dear Julian."

[lordsothofsithicus]

So I promised someone I would make this post - Kira Nerys from DS9 and why she got Kicked Upstairs, quite literally

@iconsumethesoulsofthedamned

OK so - establish what we know of Kira's character at the beginning of the series She has been made the political officer on Deep Space Nine. She is not happy about it both because she has been essentially politely shooed off of Bajor but she also has to take orders from a Federation commander, and resents the very presence of the Federation because having just chased off one military authority why are the Bajorans welcoming another, one approaching making the same promises of friendship the Cardassians did, it's lunacy

Kira is Argumentative (capital A) Kira is temperamental Kira is undiplomatic By all standard political yardsticks she is a TERRIBLE choice to serve as a political officer, especially since Bajor is trying to negotiate its admission to the Federation, and she very much did not ask for the posting

So why did she get it?

Kira is a Major in the Bajoran militia. This is a command officer rank but not a Colonel or a Generalship - it is as I recall the last of the ranks where during wartime you'd be personally commanding soldiers in combat (correct me if you know better). Meaning that she is by the time we meet her a seasoned field officer

But what else do we know about her?

Kira is religious

Not in a flashy or ostentatious way, but in a deeply, sincerely-held way that some could interpret as traditionalist or conservative.

But wait - she also has a close personal relationship with more than one highly-placed Vedek, including a VERY close relationship with one (Bareil) who is on the short-list to become the next Kai... this is like having a list of Cardinals on your speed-dial including one who is placed to become the next Pope with little hearts <3 <3 <3 next to his name in your caller ID.

So not only is she religious, she is a military officer with influence over religious figures (she would doubtless find the idea of exercising that influence in a way that personally elevated her blasphemous, but that's beside the point) - this carries onto the next point

Kira is a leader of one of the most famous resistance cells on Bajor - essentially, the one that did so much damage it forced the Cardassians to relinquish the entire planet as part of negotiating the end of the war with the Federation. The Bajorans made such a stink and did so much damage the Federation said "Let them go" and the Cardassians said "Ok" and that's largely laid at the feet of the Shakar resistance cell. This is why she's so highly-placed in the Bajoran Militia. She has influence over the ex-Partisans and most of the Militia that far exceeds her rank; it becomes fairly obvious over the course of the show that when she calls, they come. Would she use this influence to elevate herself? No, but again that's beside the point.

This influence is so important that politicians like Minister Jaro who want to overthrow the government need her on their side, because if she's not - well, see what happens with Jaro's coup.

So here's a complete portrait: A military officer who's been fighting ever since she could pick up a weapon, notoriously impatient and undiplomatic but with TREMENDOUS influence over the military and ex-military civilians, probably outstripping a lot of officers who outrank her. An officer who is deeply motivated by traditionalist religious beliefs and who has a close relationship with prominent religious figures INCLUDING the man who is widely regarded as the candidate to become the next leader of the planetary religion; she ends up in bed with him later on, quite literally.

Now imagine if you're a politician who sees this quite frankly frightening, charismatic, impatient, INFLUENTIAL officer, probably when she storms into your office and begins to yell and you cannot make her leave. Your government is made of matchsticks and hope. You start to think... if Kira Nerys decides she could do a better job of running the planet she will whistle and not only will half of the Militia side with her, a bunch of farmers who used to be partisans will beat their plowshares back into swords. She could plunge the whole damn planet into civil war. Sure there are people who swear up and down she would find the idea offensive (and she would, but that's beside the point) ...But can you take that chance? What do you do with her? You can't ruin her career, assuming you're jaded enough to try. She is untouchable - incorruptible, fearless, and devoted to service. She has Friends. Maybe you're even one of them?

So set that aside... there is a posting that is technically a promotion; the Federation is establishing a presence in the star system in order to protect Bajor and help clean up the mess the Cardassians left on the planet, and the government needs a ranking officer to represent Bajoran interests and work with the Federation commander.

For her supporters, you sell it like this: Kira Nerys is tough (boy is she) and she won't let the Federation and especially the Cardassians push her around (she absolutely will not). She will represent Bajoran interests above her own (she will). She will serve Bajor on Deep Space Nine the way she always has, with every part of her being (Absolutely)

To those who are afraid of her, you spin it like this. This posting will occupy all of her time (it will) and it will literally keep her off of the planet and isolated (it will, this is one of the reasons she hates it at the beginning of the series). If she messes up, it will damage her reputation (...probably) - and if she succeeds, hardliners who might've rallied behind her will suspect her of being tainted by association with the Federation (cynical, but sure)

And that buys you time to work on strengthening the government so someone like oh, say, an extremely influential, extremely popular war hero can't huff and puff and blow the whole damn thing over

[20somethinggirlieboy]

I COULDN’T HELP BUT WONDER…

How the Hell Did Dating Become So Dump-Friendly?

An essay by Nery Sommers

Introduction

Dating in the 21st century has undergone a significant transformation. The traditional dynamics of romance have given way to a more casual, disposable approach, leaving many to wonder how and why dating has become so dump-friendly. In this essay, we will explore the factors contributing to this shift, including the rise of dating apps, changing societal values, and the impact of technology on interpersonal relationships.

The Rise of Dating Apps

One of the key factors responsible for the shift towards dump-friendly dating is the proliferation of dating apps. The advent of technology and the accessibility of smartphones have made it easier than ever to connect with potential partners. While this convenience can be a blessing, it also encourages a disposable attitude towards dating. Users can quickly swipe through profiles, discard matches that don't meet their immediate expectations, and move on to the next without investing much time or effort.

The "Paradox of Choice"

Psychologist Barry Schwartz coined the term "paradox of choice" to describe the overwhelming impact of having too many options. Dating apps offer a plethora of potential partners, but this abundance often leads to feelings of dissatisfaction and an endless quest for someone better. In this quest, people are more likely to give up on a current partner or connection, leading to a dump-friendly culture where it's easy to walk away in search of an elusive "perfect" match.

Changing Societal Values

The values and expectations surrounding dating have also evolved over time. In the past, relationships were often approached with the intention of finding a lifelong partner. Today, the emphasis has shifted towards personal fulfillment and self-discovery. People are more likely to enter relationships with the attitude of "I'm in it for myself" rather than "I'm in it for us." This self-centered approach can make it easier to end relationships when they no longer serve one's immediate needs.

Commitment Phobia

Commitment phobia has become more prevalent in modern dating. The fear of settling down and the allure of endless possibilities drive individuals to keep their options open, leading to a lack of commitment in relationships. This commitment-averse mindset contributes to the dump-friendly nature of modern dating, as people are less inclined to work through challenges and instead opt for an easier way out.

The Impact of Technology

The role of technology in shaping dump-friendly dating cannot be overstated. Online communication, which often lacks the depth and intimacy of face-to-face interactions, has made it easier to disconnect and break up with someone through a text message or a few clicks. This depersonalized approach further desensitizes individuals to the emotional consequences of ending a relationship.

Conclusion

The evolution of dating into a dump-friendly culture is the result of a complex interplay of factors, including the rise of dating apps, changing societal values, the paradox of choice, commitment phobia, and the impact of technology. While modern dating offers many conveniences, it also comes with a challenge: balancing the pursuit of personal fulfillment with the ability to build meaningful, lasting connections. Understanding these factors can help individuals navigate the dating world more consciously and foster healthier, more fulfilling relationships.

[mylittleredgirl]

favorite and least favorite parts of each trek, with absolutely no thought put into it before making this list:

🚀 classic trek favorite: the ~aesthetic~. fuckin LOVE big chunky plastic buttons and beepy things, the mini-skirts, the sparkly metallic fabric, the whole deal. least favorite: janice rand leaves forever :( :( every single appearance she had was BONKERS how am i supposed to experience that and then ever hope to fill that void 🪐 tng favorite: soooooo soothing to know that our guys will always be both kind and correct and at the end of the episode i will learn something about how to be a better person. also romulans are there. least favorite: shit fuck i shouldn't have started this post because i'm already drawing a blank. ok ok i hate that the ship's counselor role got nerfed into a "therapist on the bridge" when it's actually so so important!! that needed to be explored so explicitly that dudebros on the internet have to shut up about it forever ⚾️ deep space nine favorite: THE CHARACTERS MY FRIENDS. the cast of dozens where every single character right down to the randos on the promenade are great. headed up by benjamin lafayette sisko and kira nerys, truly characters of all time least favorite: dukat's insanity/pah-wraith arc. like i do get why this narrative parallel makes sense against sisko as the prophets' emissary but also, it's bad. 🥔 voyager (that's a leola root by the way) favorite: i LOVE the early seasons where everyone is so adorable and spunky and they're just tooling around the delta quadrant being terrible at making friends. also tuvok is there. least favorite: kes leaves forever :( :( i hear you out there saying "fury" but come here. look at me. look at me. kes leaves forever. 🛰 enterprise favorite: controversial actually but i love t'pol's arc. i DID NOT love it as it was airing because watching poor jolene blalock having to act her way through ever more demeaning episodes is painful and terrible, but t'pol is magnificent actually? the fish out of water vulcan finding herself in foreign waters?? self-destruction on the way to rediscovering her own personal relationship to logic??? imagine if we'd got three more seasons of her with manny coto in charge it would've been glorious. least favorite: can we PLEASE do something with hoshi and travis i am BEGGING. also physically painful what american jingoism did to captain archer but i might have emotionally coped with it better if travis got lines. 🍄 discovery favorite: michael burnham is the light of my life she makes me cry out emotions that have been buried since i was in utero i don't even know. also the changing opening sequence my beloved least favorite: need one of those serial killer string boards to figure out what's going on sometimes??? can't say that too loudly tho because the discovery haters can smell blood in the water 💃 short treks favorite: THE CONCEPT I LOVE THIS least favorite: more??????? :( 🥷 star trek picard favorite: seven of nine in comfy sweaters kissing a girl filled holes in my life i didn't know were there!!!?!?!?? least favorite: don't like when picard is a jerk :( don't like when no soji and elnor :( :( :( 🤪 lower decks favorite: every second is a relentless outpouring of love for star trek, it's like a sleepover where all your friends are sitting around talking about how much they love tng except your friends are 900% funnier. least favorite: i have a hard time with cartoon violence sometimes so i get TENSE and also badgey haunts my nightmares for real for real 👨‍🍳 strange new worlds - actually i have only seen the first episode despite posting about it as if i have seen all of it haha my bad SO favorite: new star trek to watch!!!!! least favorite: now everyone knows i haven't watched it yet and i am losing trekkie credibility babes 😬 👩‍👧‍👦 prodigy favorite: rok-tak my DAUGHTER least favorite: that feeling of being in a warner brothers cartoon and there's an anvil above all our heads with J/C DISCOURSE painted on it just waiting for the show to make a wrong move

i swear i must have forgotten at least one series there is so much star trek now??? anyway feel free to make your own post about this, i am curious!! if you absolutely MUST i suppose it's ok to think about your answers for more than 30 seconds.

[velidewrites]

A dark shadow of war looms over Ravka.

Banished to the lands lurking beyond the murderous Fold, the Inferni have been nurturing a grudge for decades. Now, with a secret asset fighting on their side, the Vanserras are ready to strike.

On the other side of the empire, two of the Archeron sisters find themselves joining the army of a mysterious Dark General - and the very last of the Shadow Summoners. With nothing left to lose, and everything to gain, Feyre and Elain will not rest until they get back what the Grisha had stolen from them.

And if it means war…

So be it.

Pairings: Feysand, Elucien, Neris

Tags: Graphic Depictions Of Violence, ACOTAR Shadow & Bone AU, Multi POV, Grisha!Archeron Sisters, AU where everyone is a little insane, Rated G for God someone needs to kill Beron already

Beta'd by @thesistersarcheron <3

Prologue || Read on AO3

Through the crack in the door, Nesta could see her sister’s face, cold and solemn like the hardest stone.

“By royal decree,” Feyre Archeron announced, her finger pointed somewhere forward, “I sentence you to death, monster.”

The room echoed with a small giggle, and the girl crossed her arms. “You’re not supposed to laugh.”

“I’m sorry, I’m sorry,” Elain’s voice came in response. “Do it again, I promise I’ll be good this time.”

“That’s what you said five minutes ago!” the younger accused. “I don’t want to play if you’ll keep laughing at me like this.”

“Oh, come on, Fey-ruh,” Elain whined, and, out of their sight, Nesta rolled her eyes. She always had this annoying habit of drawling out their names whenever things wouldn’t go her way. “It’s not my fault you made me the monster again.”

Feyre shrugged. “Well, Nesta isn’t here, and I am a much better king than both of you, anyway.”

“I heard that,” Nesta finally said, stepping out of the shadows, and Feyre flinched in surprise.

“See?” she asked, turning to Elain again. “I could never play the monster as well as the two of you.”

Elain grimaced. “That’s because you’re always so loud,” she said, and Feyre’s blue-grey eyes narrowed.

Taking a step closer to her sisters, Nesta demanded, “What are the two of you doing, anyway?”

“What does it look like we’re doing?” Feyre gestured to Elain, her small form crouching under the weight of the long, black curtain draped over her shoulders. “Our sister makes a pretty monster, wouldn’t you agree?

Elain huffed, her pink lips pursed in annoyance, and Feyre laughed.

“They’re called the volcra,” Nesta said, and just like that, the room fell silent.

“Mother says we’re not supposed to say it out loud,” Elain whispered, and Feyre nodded along, horror creeping into her shining stare.

Nesta slid the costume off her sister, letting the fabric fall to the floor with a heavy thud. “Mother also said we are to stop playing such nonsense. You know how she feels about these things.”

Elain’s lips thinned.

Feyre asked quietly, “Is that why you stopped coming?”

Something stung at Nesta’s heart at that. Their mother was superstitious, yes, but there was truth to her warnings—ever since the war had started, there was no telling who—or what—was lurking beyond the safety of East Ravka’s borders. Watching. Listening.

She missed the time before the war, the time when she was younger. Things seemed to be…easier back then. She could play and laugh with her sisters without worrying that the fearsome creatures they’d pretended to be might one day escape their imagination. Could leave the house and visit the market without her mother’s tight grip on her hand and steps too quick to catch up with. Now, with each passing year, it seemed as though more and more of her freedom was being replaced by fear.

All because of them.

Ignoring the anger simmering down the pit of her stomach, Nesta took Feyre’s hand. “Alright, let’s play. But only for a few minutes, okay?”

Feyre smiled widely, those glittering stars returning into her gaze. “Will you be the monster?” she asked, and Nesta sighed.

“Yes, why not,” she agreed, and Elain squealed in delight.

She reached for the curtain pooling at her sister’s feet when she heard it.

A voice—sharp and unyielding, muffled by the wall separating them from its source. “Move.”

“Apologies, Commander, but I must insist—”

Feyre’s big eyes looked up at Nesta. “Father?” she asked quietly.

She pressed a finger to her lips. “Stay behind me,” she ordered, and moved toward the slim opening in the door.

The response came even sharper now. “Your apologies mean nothing to me,” the strange man told him. “Now move.”

Nesta squinted.

“What do you see?” Elain whispered, and Nesta shushed them again.

Three figures stood on their doorstep—tall and dressed in bizarre robes that nearly reached the floor, embroidered with patterns she’d never seen and fur at the collar to keep warm from the raging winter outside.

She’d never seen them, but Nesta could recognise them all the same.

The real monsters had finally come.

Another figure stepped forward, blocking the Grisha from entering. “Please,” their mother called. “We don’t have what you’re looking for.”

“We’ll be the judge of that,” the second man barked.

Mother shook her head. “She’s not like that, I swear, I’m her mother—”

“Like what?” the first man cut in, his fists tightening at his sides.

She hesitated. “Like you.”

His companion cocked his head. “Are you not devoted supporters of the Second Army, Lord and Lady Archeron?” he asked. “Of those blessed by the Saints themselves to protect you and your kind?”

“We are, we are,” Mother agreed, lifting a defensive hand. “But, Nesta—she’s fourteen.”

Nesta froze.

They came…for her?

“The Second Army is no place for a child,” her father supplied weakly.

The third figure—a woman—offered them a smile. “If she is one of us, the Second Army will be her home,” she said, her voice gentle, calm. “We’ll make sure she is welcomed by all.”

The man beside her nodded. “And, when her time comes, she will fulfil her duty as a member of the Grisha Order.”

A stifled cry escaped her mother’s throat. “Please, go. My daughter is not Grisha.”

“Get out of the way,” the first man growled, and forced his way inside.

“Nesta,” Elain said quietly. “What are they talking about?” she asked, but Nesta only shook her head.

Feyre wiggled in beside her. “Let me see,” she said, opening the door a little bit wider.

Nesta’s eyes widened. “Feyre, no—” she started, but it was already too late.

A small gasp tore from her sister’s lips as she met the stare of the Grisha male.

“Hello, sweetheart,” he greeted, a wicked smile twisting his lips. “Are you the one we’re looking for?”

Feyre stopped breathing entirely.

“She looks a little young,” his friend observed, his brown eyes narrowing on the girl.

That was enough.

Nesta pushed Feyre behind her and opened the door wide. “You are looking for me.”

“Nesta, no!” Elain cried.

“Quiet,” she said without turning back. She could only dare to meet the Grisha’s stare as she told him, “I am Nesta Archeron. You have come to test me?”

The man hummed. “What a well-spoken young lady. You have done a good job, Lady Archeron,” he added, throwing Mother a quick glance, “at ensuring your daughter does not turn out like you.”

Nesta’s eyes narrowed. “Keep my mother out of your mouth. This does not concern her.”

His smile grew wider. “Ah, there’s that sharp tongue I expected—perhaps I was wrong, then,” he mused. “But, young Nesta, you are quite right—indeed it is a matter between you and the Kingdom of Ravka.”

The other man, so much taller than his companion that Feyre’s body shivered behind her, joined him at his side. “If you are one of us, Nesta Archeron,” he explained, “you will be taken to the Little Palace in Os Alta and trained by some of the most skilled members of our Order. By the time you reach maturity, you will be enrolled into the Second Army, fighting for the lives of the King, and the brave people of East Ravka. Nod if you understand.”

Nesta’s mouth went dry—but she nodded anyway.

“Excellent. Now, come forward.”

She did not. “What are you going to do to me?”

The man sighed, but the Grisha woman cut him a stern look. Slowly, she stepped in closer toward the sisters, a wary smile blooming on her face as she kneeled down before Nesta. “It will not hurt,” she told her, and reached for something in her pocket. When her fist opened to reveal a thin, long needle, Nesta sucked in a breath. “I am only going to prick your finger,” she told her quietly. “If you are one of us, your blood will betray it.”

Nesta swallowed hard, forcing herself to meet the woman’s gaze. “And if I’m not?”

She smiled again. “Then we shall leave your house at once.”

“And come back in a few years,” the man behind her murmured, eyeing the two girls behind her.

Nesta’s teeth gritted. If she was, in fact, Grisha, she would kill this man herself—the only way she’d ever let him come back for her sisters was over her dead body.

“Proceed,” she told them, something in her gut twisting as her mother cried out again.

“Nesta,” a trembling voice called behind her.

“It’s okay, Elain. Nothing’s going to happen,” Nesta assured her, because it was true. She wasn’t one of the Grisha—she simply couldn’t be. She could never do the things people whispered about in the markets—magic, they would say. Nesta had no magic. She wasn’t special. She was only…angry.

Elain nodded, even though fat, silver tears began to form in the corners of her doe-like eyes. “Okay,” she said, and only then did Nesta finally step forward.

“I want her to do it,” she said, pointing at the woman with the needle.

The two men huffed. “How is it that they always ask you to do it?” one of them asked, and she rolled her eyes.

“Because, unlike you,  I am not an asshole,” she told them, then shot a quick glance at the sisters. “Pardon my language.”

“Just get it over with, Miryam,” the Grisha man urged her.

The woman—Miryam—ignored him completely, directing another warm smile at Nesta. “Come forward, please.”

And, for some reason, Nesta did.

“Unbelievable,” the tall man murmured. “Is that how you do it?”

The look she shot him was deadly. “I would never use my powers on children, Jurian.”

“Who are you?” Nesta asked her quietly.

That light smile returned to the woman’s face. “I am what they call a Heartrender.” She pointed to her robe, crimson with black swirls adorning the fabric. “The colours of our keftas reveal the Order we are part of. By sensing the blood in your body, I am able to manipulate it to my will. Though I would never do that to you,” she added quickly when Nesta stumbled back a step.

“How do I know you’re telling the truth?” Nesta challenged.

A shadow of sadness passed over Miryam’s beautiful features. “I suppose I could give you my word, though I imagine it means very little to you right now.” She waved a hand, as if chasing the feeling away. “If you join our ranks, perhaps that will change.”

“Saints, Miryam,” the other man grumbled. “We have other houses to get through.”

“You’ll have to forgive my friend,” she told her, not even looking back in his direction. “He is very grumpy today.”

“He looks like he gets grumpy a lot,” Nesta observed, and Miryam chuckled.

“Quite right, he does.” She reached out a hand. “Now, if you’ll be so kind.”

Nesta chewed on her lip. “I’m afraid,” she admitted, quiet enough for no one else to hear.

The woman nodded solemnly. “I understand. I can only promise you this—if you are one of us, no harm will ever come to you.”

Finally, Nesta nodded and slid a hand into hers. “Okay. I trust you.”

Miryam released a breath. “Thank you, Nesta,” she said, and pierced the needle into her skin.

Nesta’s mother screamed.

Fire, wild and seething, erupted from Nesta’s hand, lighting up the room with a silver light.

Her sisters’ dug into her back, her shoulders, pulling her back to safety, but Nesta didn’t move, couldn’t move, hypnotised by the sizzling flames that should’ve burned but didn’t.

Why didn’t they burn?

Her fire was so…cold.

Nesta’s favourite season was winter. Not because of the shimmering snow paving her way to school every morning, or because of the gifts her parents would shower her with every Solstice. No, Nesta loved winter because as soon as the temperatures outside dropped low enough to light a fire, Elain and Feyre would drag her in front of it, and they would stay huddled up together until the warmth drove them to sleep.

This power should have been a blessing—with it, she could offer her sisters their warmth back.

Instead, when her flames hugged the skin of her hand, Nesta felt as though she was being touched by death.

Somewhere, someone screamed her name again, and the spell broke.

Quiet fell as her fire died out, the air heavy with fear and shock.

“Impossible,” Jurian whispered.

Feyre tugged on her sleeve. “Nesta.”

“Why are they…silver?” the other man asked.

Nesta could all but gape at the Grisha before her. “I don’t understand. What’s happening?”

Miryam’s eyes filled with tears.

Behind her, Mother’s entire body shook with a sob. “Nesta.”

The Grisha man whispered, “An Inferni.”

“No,” her mother called. “No!”

Nesta looked at the woman before her, panic rising through her and setting her heart to a race. “What’s going on?”

Miryam rose to her feet and closed her eyes.

The man beside her stepped forward, his expression hard. “Nesta Archeron, you have been identified as an Inferni, an Order of dangerous traitors who inflicted the War upon the great Kingdom of Ravka.”

Nesta’s mother fell to her knees. “No! Nesta!”

He continued, “To ensure the further safety of the country and its citizens, you are to be taken into custody and banished to the Fold with immediate effect.”

Elain began to sob.

“Please! She isn’t like them! She’s done nothing wrong!”

She hasn’t—but the man grabbed her anyway, his grip tight around her wrists as he tied them up with a steel-like band.

Feyre lunged forward. “Get your hands off my sister!” she yelled, her efforts in vain as the man stopped her with all but a lift of his hand.

“Please, she’s only a child!” her mother called, whipping back to her husband. “Do something!”

The man’s gaze narrowed. “The Vanserras used to be children, too, Lady Archeron. And look what has become of them.”

“Please…”

“This is for your own safety,” Jurian told them, though his own voice was strained.

Nesta shivered. “It’s okay, Mother…I’ll be okay,” she said. “Just, please—take care of them.”

“Nesta…” Elain cried, and Nesta forced a smile.

“Goodbye, Elain. Bye, Feyre. Be safe.”

“No! Nesta, please, don’t go…”

But Nesta was already led to the doorstep, and no amount of pleading could prevent her fate. So she said, “I have to. I’ll be okay, though—I promise.”

And with that, Nesta left her home, never to return again.

The monsters beside her turned to smile at her sisters. “We’ll be back in a few years.”

Taglist (let me know if you'd like to be added!): @fieldofdaisiies @asnowfern @brieq @starfall-spirit

[walkingstackofbooks]

DS9 4x09 Our Man Bashir thoughts (I’m re-watching, so beware spoilers for future episodes!) [2 July '23]

*window crash* wait, no, is this...? AH YISSS, IT'S OUR MAN BASHIR, I am so hype to see this again!

I mean that the glass bottle trick was smooth

"Bashir. Julian Bashir." And then Garak starts clapping, hilarious

Aww, Garak being sad that Julian has been too busy with his new holosuite programme to spend time with him - when he finds out it's a spy programme, to boot, do you think he felt he was being replaced by something fancier and better? That Julian only hung around with him because he was a spy?

"It's so unusual for you to have secrets"... little do you know, Garak. If you're excited about this, how much will you enjoy his augmentation secret?

WHY ARE THEY STANDING SO CLOSE TO EACH OTHER (gayyyyy)

"I wonder what scared her away. You must be incensed." Garak is baiting him so much XD Yes, Julian, he wants you to be mad

This is already such a fun episode, I'd forgotten quite how much!

"I think I joined the wrong intelligence service." IS THAT AN ADMISSION, GARAK?! You've never admitted to being a spy before, I am sure!

Why does Julian need to get his suits made by Garak if the holosuite can produce clothes - or are all of these costumes his valet is bringing out ones he's bought and somehow saved in the programme?

"Nerys, please." There's just something about the way he says this. He's not acting angry like he is at Garak, he's seemingly more cautious about telling her off for being here? I guess he's starting to think it's not Kira?

Odo going "That sounded like Kira!" even though she sounds Russian... Something something universal translator? Or he's just so attuned to her?

Julian is so pissed with this turn off events disrupting everything into something lethal. He just wanted a fun time

I have never noticed the falcon on Miles' eyepatch before!

"But that's Miles." - The way Julian says that is so gentle...

His soft "Sorry, my dear" to his dead valet - oh, my love :3

"Right behind the spatula." Oh, ROM. Incredible engineering XD

"Welcome to paradise." Okay, Avery Brooks just stole this scene.

How have I only just realised the symbolism of the villain, who is trying to flood the world and restart a better life, being called Noah?

"O'Brien's gonna kill me when he gets back." XD

Ohhh I was wondering how they got from Dr Noah's room to the tunnel - I had forgotten the being-tied-up scene

"Honey, will you grant me one last request and take off those glasses?" Yes Garak, that eye roll is what we're all thinking... Julian's acting is so ridiculously earnest XD "Kiss the girl, get the key - they never taught me that in the Obsidian Order." Garak is being so unusually frank! Is this part of his ploy to win back Julian from the game? Trying to remind him that I was a real spy, you know, my dear doctor?

The waver in Julian's voice as he says "If you call for the exit, you might kill Sisko and the others..." :3

Boy, their argument in the tunnel is such a tense scene, even better than I remember!

"You dream of being a hero because deep down you're not." OUCH. The worst thing is, Julian probably agrees.

"That's all about to end now isn't it?" - bit of London accent sneaking in there

"It's working just as you planned! You've done it, Doctor." "Yes.But somehow I didn't expect to win."

Oh I love everything about this sceeeeene

"Lunch tomorrow?" "Of course. But why don't we have it at your place, in Hong Kong?" I DO NOT REMEMBER THAT LINE. WOW. GAY.

Okay, yeah, this is the point where they get together imo.

I mean everyone knows this episode is fantastic, but also, THIS EPISODE IS BLOODY FANTASTIC AND I LOVE IT TO BITS.