#it would be the right thing. fae wouldn't fight it.

[chainsawworld]

Guy that I am. So normal about

[pit-and-the-pen]

When Things Come Back to Haunt You

I finally finished this request: to the anon that requested, I’m so sorry how long it took, my brain was not letting write angst.

Summary: When Azriel hurts his mate in the war, guilt eats him alive.

Wc: 2.6k

Warnings: character injury and near death.

Azriel tried his best to focus on the events unfolding around him. The last wave of Hybern soldiers were still coming down around them and all he could focus on was the fact that he could only watch as your body slipped into the crowd right out of his view. He sent a sharp tug on that golden thread and felt nothing but a solid wall. She blocked him out. His skin crawled at the thought. He wouldn’t be able to know if you were okay. He sent out another powerful blast of his siphon, taking down three hybern soldiers and ran off after you. Wave after wave kept coming. Everytime he would catch a glimpse of you, you seemed to slip off again.

Azriel knew you could handle yourself, he had trained you personally. But that didn’t stop the utter panic that was consuming him the longer you two were separated.

The bodies slowly thinned down to the few remaining stragglers and he finally was able to catch up with you. Going to shout your name as he saw your sword cleave through a line of enemy soldiers. You were surrounded on all sides, the two you took down in front of you only distracting you from the ones behind you. Azriel shouted out your name. Lost over the sounds of the commotion around them. The words get carried away in the wind.

He surges forward with Truth Teller, running through fae with no regard. He had to get to you. He could have reached forward and pushed you out of the way but all he could do was yell your name again. You were still fighting off the bodies in front of you.

He watched, almost frozen in horror, as one of the figures behind you surged to swing their own sword right into your back.

“Get down!” Azriel shouted and he could only watch in horror as you turned at the sound of his voice,a small smile graced your face before the power of his siphon blasted into you. You took the brunt of the power of his siphon to the center of your chest. You collapsed like a rag doll, legs crumpling underneath you. The scream that ripped through him left his ears ringing. He didn’t care that your would-be attacker was on the ground unmoving besides you. All the sounds of the battle faded away as he rushed to get to you. You had to be breathing. You had to be alive. He would have felt it. Felt that precious golden bond snap. Wouldn't he? But your shields were still up, still blocking him up.

He was finally able to get his arms around you. It wasn’t the triumphant reunion that he thought the two of you would get. Your face was bleeding, sliced up in the impact. Your arm was twisted at an unnatural angle. He pressed his ear to your chest. He wanted to cry with relief when he heard the tell tale beating. But it was weak. Forcing itself to beat against the force of power you had absorbed,

He scooped you up in his arms, no longer caring about the events around him. He had done his fair share. The King of Hybern was dead and the others could clean up the rest of his soldiers that kept pushing on. His mind was racing as he rushed to the only place he could think to take you. The tent that Rhys had set up was far enough away that he cursed himself. Cursed himself for not taking note of where any of the healing tents were. Even if he got you to a healers tent it was no guarantee that they would be available to help you. No amount of threatening would force a healer to help if they are already up to their elbows in injuries.

He flew you to Rhys’ tent in record time. He didn’t even process that his brother was already laid out on the floor. He could only focus on your slowing heartbeat.

“Help her.” How he could even speak at this moment was beyond him. The words didn’t register in his mind, he didn’t even realize that he shouted them. He felt your weight leave his arms and he lunged to attack the source. A strong arm wrapped around his shoulders to keep him restrained and he fought to push them off as well.

“Calm down. Az, you’re going to hurt her.” The voice of his brother, Cassian, filled his ears. He willed his mind to take in the words, His heart sank.

“I already did.” He choked on the words. He had hurt his mate. Had nearly killed you. The one person he was supposed to keep safe. He felt the hot tears sliding down his face. His body went limp as the fight drained out of him. He kept tugging on the bond, searching for any part of you that he could hold onto. Nothing. Just that same wall that blocked him out.

The healer got right to work on you. Chanting over you with their eyes closed. The light haired healer gasped quietly, muttering words to herself as she went to collect something from the numerous bags that littered the tent.

“What are you doing?” He shouted to the healer. The female flinched before taking a deep breath.

“ Either calm down or get out. I cannot heal her if you’re shouting at me everytime I move. I will kick you out of this tent.” She bit back. Azriel felt the growl leave his chest and suddenly he was being yanked outside by Cassian.

Azriel roughly shook off the touch and went to enter again. A hand on his shoulder stopped his movements.

“Azriel. Stop.”

“I can’t! I nearly killed her, Cassian. I can’t just leave her alone.”

“What happened?” Cassian all but whispered. Azriel could only shake his head like it would remove the memory from him. The look of your smile before you were thrown back. His throat felt tight, he couldn’t breathe as he replayed the scene again and again.

Cassian was shaking him lightly. As he got pulled back to the present, he felt the tremors rack through his body. His knees threatening to give out under him.

“I can’t lose her. Cas, this can’t be how I lose her.” He couldn’t stop the sobs that left him. He sunk down to his knees. Not caring about the mud that shifted under his weight. His wings drooped closer to the wet earth. Cassian swore softly from behind him before he joined him on the ground. His brothers arms wrapped around his neck and pulled his into a tight hug. Azriel felt his whole body tense before he returned the hug. Clutching to the only suppor6 Cassian could offer in this moment.

The healer worked on you for what felt like hours. Eventually the healer rushed out, pushing the flap of the tent open.

“You’re her mate right?” She spoke almost too fast for Azriel to catch the sudden question.

He could only nod.

“Then I need your blood. Right now. Come.” She pulled on his wrist. He didn’t move at first as her words sunk in but then he was tripping over himself to get to you. He didn’t know he knew but you were dying. Your skin had lost the flush look from exertion, instead you had a slight sheen of sweat sticking to your skin.

“Hand.” The healer demanded. Azriel’s body didn’t feel like his as he extended it to the healer. He didn’t even flinch as she dragged a small dagger across half of his palm. He watched as the small stream of red pooled up along the cut. The healer guided his hand to your mouth, squeezing your cheeks slightly to part your lips. He watched as a single drop pooled out of your mouth. The healer wrapped his hand quickly before dismissing him. He couldn’t move. Feet rooted to the spot as the healer pressed her ear against your chest. She cursed loudly and Azriel felt like something in his chest has cleaved him in half.

“What’s happeni-”

“Get out. Now.” She all but growled at him. And there was something in her voice that made his legs follow her orders.

Your heart had stopped. That is what he learned within the next few minutes. Twice. The healer restarted your heart twice. And twice Azriel could do nothing but stand around as he felt like it was to lose you. More of his family had joined him now. Mor was inside the tent, assisting the healer. Cassian was trying his best to distract him from the twisted mess his mind was at this moment but even through his grief, he could tell not even Cassian knew what to say to make this better. Azriel was sitting with his knees curled up to his chest as the healer came out again. His heart sank at the look on her face.

She held up a small hand to him, a silent request for him to stay still.

“She’s stable. Her body is healing slowly. But the blood did its job. She’s lucky she has you or she would be dead right now.”

Mercifully, your eyes started to blink open. A rough breath pushed through your mouth as you tried to sit up. Azriel’s hand was on your shoulder instantly, urging you to lay back down. His heart broke when he heard a small whimper of pain from you at the contact. He withdrew his hand quickly. Pulling them both onto his lap. The tent was slightly too small for him, his wings tucked in tight against his body. It was difficult to sit without touching you, both because of his desperate need to feel your skin under his hands and because of the tight space.

You looked at him and he instantly felt sick to his stomach at the pure joy across your features. The warmth he felt tinting the edge of the bond that you finally opened up.

He couldn’t sit there and stomach your love for a second longer.

“Rhys will find you a new apartment. And I can start packing your stuff the moment I leave.” Azriel forced the words out. Breaking the silence in the tent. Your eyes widened at his words.

“Why would I need a new place to live?” The rasp in your voice hit him in the face. Your words didn’t make sense to him.

“I almost killed you. You were… your heart stopped twice. All because I couldn’t protect you.”

“Az-”

“No. You will never be put in danger by me. Never again.”

He watched as your face contorted with pain as you tried to sit up. The blanket across your chest slipped a little and he saw the hint of a scar marring your skin. An angry lighting like pattern, cutting across the mark of your mating bond right above your heart. You followed his eyeline and pulled the blanket tighter around yourself.

“Don’t you want to hear what I think?”

“N-”

“I think you saved my life. I was surrounded by soldiers. If you hadn't taken out the one behind me, he was going to kill me.”

“But I al-”

“This is war Azriel. People get hurt.”

“Not by me. Not you. This isn’t up for discussion.”

——————————//——————————

Azriel had managed to keep his distance while you healed. Moving you into your old room despite your amend demands that you would sleep in your shared bedroom. It was harder to avoid you once you started to be able to get around by yourself, no longer requiring assistance from Cassian or Mor. You somehow always found your way into the room he was occupying. Never speaking, you had figured out that speaking would have him all but running out of the room. Azriel felt every single tug from your side of the bond, could practically taste the way you were begging for him to talk to you. As much as it killed him to deny you, Azriel would not allow himself to be that selfish. His skin was crawling with the urge to touch you, to kiss your soft lips and play with the loose curls of your hair. He missed the pressure of your hand intertwined with his. He was sleeping like shit, he had grown so accustomed to your presence that he no longer could sleep without you. But he also had the image of his power hitting you burned into his memory. The scar on your chest would be a reminder enough.

You would not budge on your choice to stay in your house. Despite his best efforts, Rhys would not force you to move out. His brother, his high lord, would not order you to move out even if Azriel thought he was doing it for your protection. So Azriel hid like a child. Avoiding you in your very own home. But he could never fully escape you. You were everywhere in the house, if not psychically, then in the pictures on the wall, on Azriel's favorite pillow that you had gotten him. There was not a place in the house that he could distance himself from you and it was killing him.

It took two weeks to the day from when you moved back to the house that you broke. You had walked into the small nook of a library and Azriel softly put his book down and tried to slink out of the room. His shadows had drawn close to him but you had no problem reaching your hand out and closing it around his arm. You pulled him closer to you and his shadows immediately disappeared. He stood there, watching your chest rise and fall. He couldn’t bring himself to pull out of your grasp, savoring your touch before he would be denied it again.

“Az…”

“Please don’t do this.”

“Me? You don’t do this.” You felt your anger from the last few weeks building up.

Azriels face twisted, looking so pained that you couldn’t help the hand that reached out to try to brush his cheeks. He leaned in for a second before jumping away like you had burned him. Tears formed in your eyes as he tried to slink off again.

“If you don’t love me anymore, at least have the decency to tell me instead of avoiding me.” Your voice cracked and Azriel froze. His shadows wrapped around your arms, a ghost of a touch but not the one you wanted.

“I love you so much, that’s the problem. I almost watched you die. I did watch you die. In case you forget your heart stopped two times.”

“You cannot protect me from everything.”

“But I should be able to.”

“You’re so insistent on keeping me safe but did you ever sit and think about what I want?”

Azriel’s face dropped, giving you the answer you needed.

“I love you, no matter how much you wish I didn’t. I will be here until you figure that out. You’re the love of my life, my mate. I waited three hundred years for you and if you think I’m giving that all up-“

Your words were cut off by his lips crashing against yours. For the first time since the accident, you felt his side of the bond open up and the flood of emotions almost knocked your knees out from underneath you. His hand came to rest on the small of your back and yours rested against his face. The stubble on his chin tickled underneath your fingers. The kiss was slow, a building inferno that did nothing to satisfy the fire roaring in your veins.

You both pulled away gasping, his forehead resting on yours.

“Don’t ever leave me.” He whispered so softly that you almost missed it.

“Never.” You pulled his lips back to yours and flooded the bond with all the love you could. Happy to have your mate back

[berryz-writes]

It's always going to be you

Summary: You and Azriel spend less time with each other and soon it seems he spends more time with Elain- apologising and fluff

Azriel x reader

I watched, holding my breath as Elain let out a small laugh at something Azriel said, her hand coming up to rest on his arm. Did she need to do that? No, she probably didn't. But I let it go because she was getting better now. Her smiles were more frequent and if she found my mate funny then fine. I wouldn't be jealous about it.

Another week later and Elain and Azriel were walking the streets of Velaris. I had paused in my tracks to watch them, their heads bent together talking about something important it seemed. It felt like I hadn't gone shopping with Az in so long let alone have a nice conversation that lasted longer than a minute. They seemed comfortable together. Fine. As long as they were both happy there was no reason for me to jump to conclusions.

It was game night and Elain and Azriel had paired up. Yes, they were playing chess against each other but they chose each other and left me on the side lines, merely part of the audience. I wasn't even give a second glance. "Y/n? Aren't you going to play?" Cassian asked from where he was sat on the sofa, one arm around Nesta the other holding a glass of wine.

I shook my head "I'm tired. Maybe next time" I turned to look back at Azriel because like usual I was drawn to him. It seemed he was unaffected by our bond now because he hadn't even looked at me once throughout the entire day. The longer I stared the harder it was to fight back tears. I stood up and mumbled an excuse to leave, Nesta being the only one who listened to my made up excuse. I walked out the house and rubbed my hands together, my feet taking me to the bench I had sat on so many times. Luckily I was smart enough to grab hold of a thick shawl before leaving. The Sidra was as beautiful as always, lights glowing around the area, Fae spilling out of different bars across the street.

I pulled the shawl closer to me and tried to enjoy the sight in front of me rather than my mind going back to things I didn't want to think about.

Where are you?

Y/n? Are you okay? Where are you? Tell me where you are.

Sweetheart please. Are you allright?

Azriel's voice, panicked and full of fear in my mind. The spiteful thing to do would be to ignore him and build a barrier between the both of us but because I was never able to see or hear Azriel worry for so long I replied with

I'm fine

I went home for the night, enjoy yourself

I blocked him out. I didn't want to think about anything right now. I wasn't in the mood to talk to him.

Of course if someone asked if I still loved him I would have replied with a "yes" in a heartbeat. Maybe we just needed space. Or maybe I was being dramatic. It's not as if I had walked in on them kissing or something.

"Fancy seeing you here, y/n" Someone said. I had to blink away my sleepiness and try and find the source of the voice. It was Keller. A friend who I usually had lunch with when I was in town or needed someone to help me translate a piece of text.

I gave him a warm smile, his blonde almost silver hair shining in the street lamps.

"Is there a seat free?" He gestured next to me at the empty bench but before I could answer a loud thud was heard behind me and without having to turn around I could tell who it was. He must have hidden his scent because otherwise I would have known he was coming this way earlier.

"Apologies, but the seats taken. You should get going now" Azriel's voice was tight and full of anger, one wrong answer from Keller would result in things that were too gruesome too think of.

Still, he hesitated, looking between me and Azriel who was behind me and probably sending daggers at him.

"I'll see you tomorrow. Have a nice night" I gave him an awkward smile, trying to reassure him.

"Right. Enjoy your time." And with a nod "Shadowsinger" He walked away soon disappearing behind a corner. I didn't bother turning around and instead waited for Azriel to show himself. His footsteps were light as his form came into view, blocking the scene of the Sidra. He stood there for a good minute or so evaluating every inch of me with his piercing eyes. His shadows moved away from him, coming to brush against me as if they were checking if I was ok as well.

"Are you all right? Your not hurt are you?" His voice was soft, a great contrast to the tone he was using with Keller a second ago.

I sighed "Physically, yes"

He took this as a chance to sit down next to me, making sure there was a small distance between us. As if he wasn't sure what I wanted. I wasn't sure either. I wanted space but I also wanted him to wrap his arms around me and tell me everything would be alright.

"I didn't know what happened to you. I thought you had been taken. I thought I wouldn't see you again" Azriel's voice was quiet and almost broken in a way. I turned to look at him, to see if he was the same Azriel as a few weeks ago.

"What's happened to us?" I asked. I didn't know either but there was one thing I knew and that was something had changed.

As soon as the words escaped me, Azriel froze. His breathing coming to a stop and his eyes focused completely on me and my breathing. For the first time in my life I heard him stumble over his words "what...what do you mean?" He asked, his voice so quiet and full of worry. His shadows paused their constant movement around me and froze as well, their touch now cold.

I wrapped my arms around me, the shawl suddenly not doing much to block the cold out properly "Don't you feel as if we've grown apart? Like...maybe we aren't as close as we used to be?"

I couldn't look at him while saying that. Instead I let my head fall back so I could look at the comforting sight of the stars. Something that was always there. I felt a slight shift to my right where Azriel moved closer to me, his wings coming to wrap around me.

I looked at him, opening my mouth to thank him for the warmth but before I could say anything his shaky voice interrupted me "I love you. I will always love you. I am so sorry you felt as if I wasn't giving you enough time. I know you deserve more than I could ever-"

I put my hand up to stop him "It's not about that. It's about you always being with Elain. Tell me, Azriel. How long has it been since we've been shopping together? How long has it been since you've come home when I'm not asleep because it's the middle of the night? How long will this go on? This back and forth of me waiting for you while you go off with Elain doing who knows what"

I felt his heart beat increase with every word I said and as I let it all out I felt full of guilt. I was being irrational and dramatic. And Azriel didn't deserve it. We had been through so much and I was complaining about him not spending time with me

"sorry. I didn't mean that. I just...got carried away" I looked away from him. He looked heartbroken and I had done that to him.

A silent minute passed before Azriel broke it by picking me up and winnowing us to his room

"what? what are you doing?" I asked, disoriented from the winnowing. I sat on his bed, trying to get used to the soft lighting in his room.

He sat next to me and held my hands in his, warmth seeping through me "I could never cheat on you, sweetheart. I'd rather shred my wings than hurt you. You understand that...don't you? There is nothing between me and Elain and there never will be. I'm sorry you felt that way" He pressed a kiss to my hand, his eyes golden in the light. The way he looked at me made me think, how could I have doubted him?

"I know you aren't cheating. Of course I know that but why does it feel like you spend more time with her than me?" I ask quietly, afraid of the answer. Maybe it's because I've become boring now after all these years.

"My love, your the one who told me to help her. You told me spend time with her because she seemed to like my company. I did it for you, sweetheart. Don't you think I'd rather spend my time with my beautiful mate?"

His hand moved up to cup my cheek, brushing away a tear that had escaped. "It's always going to be you."

I leaned into his comforting warmth and let my doubts and fears wash away. "I'm sorry for doubting you, Az"

"you had every right to" He mumbled back, his arms now encircling me completely. I felt safe and wanted in his arms, like nothing could ever go wrong.

(KEEP IN MIND I LOVE ELAIN EVERYONE. my personal opinion is she should end up with lucien)- as usual not proof read

MASTERLIST

[raven-at-the-writing-desk]

book 5 part 6 thoughts!!

***THIS POST CONTAINS MASSIVE SPOILERS FOR BOOK 7 PART 6 OF THE MAIN STORY!!***

If you’d like to watch a rough part-by-part summarized translation, please check out this archived stream!

Please note: this is NOT meant to be a summary or a translation; these are only my initial thoughts on the events that unfold. There may be details overlooked or misunderstood in this post, so PLEASE do not use this as a translation.

Ew, we're starting off with another map segment... TWST REALLY WANTS TO TIMEGATE OUR TEARS, HUH

Yuu and gang are going to follow the night fae soldiers to Black Scale Castle beyond the mountains. They can't stay too far from the owner of the dream, Lilia! (If you'll remember, they're now taking Tamago-sama there for safety while Meleanor stays behind to fight the Silver Owls.)

Silver hasn't seen Sebek use his UM??? Sebek tells us he learned his UM when Silver got into NRC and Sebek was training by himself. He wanted to be able to rush to Malleus's side at a moment's notice. He knows it is able to turn his own body into lightning and then can use it to move and to attack. However, the spell will damage his body while using it since he has yet to reach mastery. Sebek can't use his magic to rush to Lilia and the others because he wouldn't be able to fight by the time he does.

... ISN'T HIS UM SIMILAR TO ROLLO'S.... JUST TRADE FIRE FOR LIGHTNING...

AW, SEBEK WASN'T PLANNING ON USING HIS SPELL UNTIL HE MASTERED IT... BUT HE STILL USED IT TO SAVE SILVER 😭

Oh, they finally asked the question we were all having. If Malleus made this dream with the intention of it being a happy ending, then why do only sad things happen in Lilia's dream??? Also, why did OB Malleus not come after them yet or kick them out of the dream??? Maybe there's a reason why Malleus can't supervise or enter Lilia's dream??

BAUL LEFT THEM MAGIC TO GUIDE THEM THE RIGHT WAY... HE TRUSTS US TO HELP THEM NOW

Baul fights with an axe. IS HE ABOUT TO HAND IT OVER TO SEBEK (Sebek seems to be holding one in his limited time card)????

Lilia "I won't forgive you if you die!" Vanrouge.

Not both grandpa and grandson volunteering to stay behind to fight and then catch up later... Sebek tells Silver to go ahead and protect Lilia, "You go and protect what is most precious to you. I'm going to protect what is precious to me," (Sebek about Baul) 😭 The night fae are so confused why a human would willingly help them... THI S IS SEBEK'S CHARACTER ARC

SEBEK PROVES HIMSELF A CAPABLE FIGHTER TO HIS GRANDPA!! His hair gets all messy like what's shown in his new SSR. It's raining as well (like in the card art), so this is likely the context for the illustration. The groovy artwork is of Sebek being knighted!!!

adgkuvaodv8yfefvyyeft8wen Sebek makes a big speech about wanting to be their strength!! BAUL ACKNOWLEDGES SEBEK BY NAME INSTEAD OF "HUMAN" AND GRANTS HIM A SOLDIER'S UNIFORM, SEBEK'S BEING OFFICIALLY KNIGHTED FOR THE BRIAR COUNTRY'S IMPERIAL GUARD AND GIVEN A NEW WEAPON... BAUL EVEN GIVES SEBEK HIS OWN CROCODILE MASK

Zigvolt family lore!! Baul doesn't get along with his human son-in-law, but never distanced himself from his grandchildren. When Baul's only daughter wanted to marry a human, they argued so much about it. To this day, he still doesn't particularly care for humans. Even so, Baul's house has a lot of storybooks and candy prepared for his mixed grandchildren. He won't open them warmly, but it's clear he loves his family.

Silver saves Lilia!! And then Lilia asks Silver to take the egg to Black Scale Castle in his place. There are too many human soldiers on their trail, and Lilia cannot fight them while holding the egg (plus he's already injured from previously protecting Silver at the easternmost fortress).

Yuu has to hold Tamago-sama...

Silver proceeds to carry Lilia like a baby in spite of Lilia saying he'd stay behind and distract the Silver Owls 🤡 NOT SILVER USING LILIA'S OWN TEACHINGS TO TELL DREAM!LILIA THEY STILL HAVE TO TRY AND SURVIVE

The mountains are called the "Forbidden Mountains" and it is said that this is where Maleficent once lived. If you are not blessed by the dragons, the lightning (according to legend) will strike you down. Beyond the mountain is Briar Country's capital city and Black Scale Castle.

Surprisingly, Silver suggests an ambush method (hide and strike at soldiers from behind when they've let their guard down). I guess NRC really did teach him how to be backhanded after all/j

Silver says maybe Malleus can't follow them since he wasn't born yet in Lilia's dream. Magic relies on imagination, and since Malleus cannot imagine what life was like before he was born... that's probably why he can't monitor these circumstances.

Would you look at that 💀 The first real time the story acknowledges that Yuu is in bodily danger; Silver Owls shoot arrows at Yuu because they're holding the egg. Grimmu protects us!! Baby... Best buddy...

SEBEK ARRIVING TO SAVE SILVER (aksldnbaksdbaydasl lol at Sebek being smug about his knighting and trying to act cool even though the lightning is definitely still hurting him...)

Silver Owls retreat!

Oh wow, so they see creeping black thorns similar to when Malleus OB'd; everyone suspects that maybe Meleanor Overblotted too.

Silver mentions that he lives near the Forbidden Mountains but has never climbed them before. The rocks there are very sharp and dangerously jut out. AW, Lilia gives Silver and Yuu his cloak to protect them from the rain and cold. Lilia says the mountain range is full of magic, so its restorative to fae, who draw power from nature.

The way they came from was sealed off by rocks... but Lilia fully intends to go back and help Meleanor...

THEY MADE IT TO THE CASTLE!! It's called Maleficia's castle; we have an official English spelling for Granny Draconia's name. Something, something, Lilia wants to prepare something called the "Cradle Tower".

WE CUT BACK TO WILD ROSE CASTLE

Like father, like son... The Dawn Knight seems remorseful and wonders where they went wrong, if everyone could have been friends if they had chosen some other way. He wants to dream of a world where all races can live together in peace. "One day, it won't be just a dream, it will be reality." It's phrased very similarly to the wish Lilia made in Wish Upon a Star!

The stormy weather clears up and the dawn makes way... IT'S A SIGN THAT THE DAWN KNIGHT PREVAILED AND MELEANOA'S MAGIC HAS DISAPPEARED... Lilia just lets out the most guttural cries... He says if he were stronger, he would have taken Meleanoa with him against her will, HE WASN'T ABLE TO KEEP HIS PROMISE TO PROTECT MELEANOR FOR HIM

I still want to see Mallemom's on-screen death though.

Side note: they force us to play through a scripted loss battle between the Dawn Knight and Meleanor 💀 Sick fucks on the dev team…

This is delicious content :)))))))) We're eatin' well, boiz

Uhhh okay so there are greenish spirits floating around; they're the senate??? Apparently they've already died but their spirits linger and serve as advisors.

… Idk why doesn’t Mallemom do this too???

NAUR, NOT THE SENATE BLAMING AND SHAMING LILIA, SAYING HE RAN AWAY AND LEFT HER TO DIE IN BATTLE... THEY CALL LILIA A MUTT AND BAT, JUST A DIRTY ORPHAN WHO CAN’T BE TRUSTED… AND THAT HE ISN'T FIT TO SERVE, THAT HE'S USELESS (this must really sting seeing as Lilia has insecurities about not being wanted 😭)

Baul defends Lilia's honor but Lilia still resigns from the Imperial Guard. HE'S TELLING THE SENATE T HEY CAN PUNISH HIM SO THEY FORBID HIM FROM STEPPING INTO THE CAPITAL AGAIN

The senate uses magic to take the egg away from Lilia AND LILIA SAYS GOODBYE TO MALLEUS BY NAME

"I'm not an Imperial Guard anymore, I don't need to follow orders" — Lilia (when Baul tells Lilia he still has a duty to hatch the egg). LILIA HAS GIVEN UP and that seems to have summoned the darkness of the dream to them. Lilia thinks Meleanor and/or Levan are in the darkness so he wants to "go there too".

When a general retires, they are gifted a lavish home near Black Scale Castle. Sebek says it now makes sense why Lilia lived humbly in a forest cottage far away from the capital. Silver says it must be why Lilia dislikes the atmosphere of the capital and why he never took Silver there.

In a flashforward, Lilia is asked to come back 10 years later. At this point, Tamago-sama has developed more sentience and is actively rejecting the love magic from everyone, even his grandmother. He has only been receiving magic for the first 5ish years or so. Maleficia had Baul act as a messenger to bring Lilia back for a special mission BECAUSE OTHERWISE MALLEUS WILL DIE WITHOUT IT.

Malleus’s egg is being kept in Cradle Tower! It keeps the egg safe and essential incubates it for the royal family.

Land of Briar becomes Briar Valley? The queen cannot always be with the egg because Briar Valley and its surrounding are lands are left in chaos after the war. Briar Valley fae specifically are not allowed in human territories.

Lilia is sent off on to find a way to fix the situation. He says he will see where dragons live in other continents and research. Omg, this must be how he started his travels and learned more about other races and their cultures 😭

“Don’t you dare die, Malleus” — Lilia (AND THE LOVING DEATH THREAT ACTUALLY MAKES THE EGG GLOW)

We see some of Lilia’s travels AND HE WAS IN THE CITY OF FLOWERS ON TOPSY TURVY DAY... The people there were friendly at first and worrying for his health until they realize he's a fairy, then they chase him out.

During one of his routine reports, Lilia is convinced by Baul to speak with Malleus's egg (which now glows green sometimes). Lilia shares stories of his travels with Malleus, trying to keep it positive for the baby to not make Malleus sad.

NEXT LILIA TRAVELED TO THE SCALDING SANDS, A MERCHANT IS ASKING IF HE WANTS TO BUY A MAGIC LAMP... Lilia learns about the importance of souvenirs as keepsakes from that merchant.

Okay, so it looks like between travels we're getting scenes of Lilia reporting back and telling Malleus about the place he most recently visited. He says that the Scalding Sands used to be such a small civilization but has since grown into a sprawling city. It's amazing what kind of progress humans can make.

Malleus is fussy and some days accepts magic, and other days he doesn't. Meleanor was also a really picky eater. Levan carries himself like an honors student but was the type to hide his veggies.

AW, HE SINGS MELEANOR'S LULLABY TO MALLEUS

Next Lilia visits some ruins...? It looks like a background from the Spectral Realm seen in Endless Halloween Night. Lilia says no one lives here, there is only furniture. No ghosts are mentioned though! He uses his UM for the first time here. Far Cry Cradle is probably going to be very useful for investigating ways to hatch a dragon's egg!

Lilia tells Malleus to come out of the egg, it must be boring just sleeping. He offers to read stories and change his diaper, tells Malleus his dad wants to meet him. Oh, and of course Lilia shares about his UM too! He tells Malleus that he went to the Land of Crimson Long.

Lilia ventures to Harveston!! An old man mistakes Lilia for a kid and takes him in, showing him warmth and kindness. He says he'll leave soon, but the old man and an old woman say he should stay until spring because the weather is harsh.

The lady notices Lilia is fae (but since time has passed, relations between fae and humans have improved a bit). No one is afraid of him here!! They apologize for mistaking him as a kid and want to share stories.

(Not confirmed but it could be interesting if these were Epel’s ancestors Lilia met… Rollo’s ancestors can be the ones running Lilia out of the City of Flowers www)

ABSHDBYOAFVYFAIAEUQRQEOUBFQ LILIA IS 430 AT THIS POINT BUT THAT NUMBER IS SO CLOSE TO 420 IT MAKES ME LAUGH

His feelings are changing... At 450 years old, Lilia tells Malleus that the world has changed so much and he has had the chance to visit many places. ahbyoaybadadB APPARENTLY PEOPLE USED TO THROW STONES AND ROCKS AT HIM.

Lilia says that fae may become things of the past, just creatures of fairy tales. But he doesn't want Malleus to be the main character of a fairy tale, forgotten by time. He wants Malleus to be able to see the world his parents weren’t able to see for themselves 😔

Another time skip, and it's come to a point where the egg is in critical condition. For 3 whole months it has been rejecting Maleficia's magic. The egg has since erected a lightning barrier to protect itself, even though its own heartbeat is growing weaker and weaker. (Malleus throwing another tantrum lol)

Lilia heard weird sounds but no one else could??? Is that a baby crying???? He tries to approach, but almost gets struck down many times.

Lilia realizes Malleus is crying because he's lonely. "Wait for me. I'm coming to you right now!" He gets hit by lightning, but perserves!

Lilia says he will offer his magic, even his lifespan (many fan theorists squealed now that this is confirmed), to Malleus if he needs it, and finally embraces the egg. (Physical contact like holding the egg is said to encourage magic absorption.)

TAMAGO-SAMA??????? 😭 HE SOUNDS LIKE A POKEMON… and he’s already blowing fire even though he’s freshly hatched???

WTF THOUGH BABY MALLEUS IS 1000000000000000000000x CUTER THAN GROWN UP MALLEUS 🫶 (I don’t like modern day Malleus’s looks at all www)

Silver understands why the dream is how it is, because it was all worth it for Lilia to finally meet Malleus. The moment of hatching has to be the happiest moment in Lilia’s life.

The senate shows up and starts praising Lilia as a hero.

OH????? Lilia seems to be waking????

HMMMM? this implies there’s limited suspension of disbelief each dreamer has 🤔 and if pushes past that threshold, then the dreamer is in a confused half awake state. Idia had these little moments of questioning his dream’s reality as well.

The senate’s voices distort, and they start shouting at Lilia for touching the prince, how it will be a scandal if a bat (… is Lilia a bat fae???) “dirties” the Draconias, etc. Mmmm, maybe this is the real reaction and the praising was part of the dream?? Since Lilia seemed to react strangely to being extolled. (I’m still over here wondering why their opinions hold so much weight compared to the queen; surely she would invite her friend Lilia back?? And doesn’t seem to blame him for the death of her daughter?)

Levan has a voice similar to Malleus, but lacks horns.

DVSUBILADUP9FFQEQFFAHAFBFEYBN OB MALLEUS JUMPSCARE, HE FINALLY MANAGED TO BREAK THROUGH INTO LILIA'S DREAM

Okay 😭 Lilia did in fact use his own life span so Malleus could hatch, and then Lilia had Maleficia swear to secrecy because he was concerned Malleus would blame himself. But it also feels like the senate purged or edited the records to hide the fact that Malleus hatched with Lilia’s love??

Malleus tries to convince Lilia to go back to sleep, to not feel pain. He says he can give Lilia a dream where the Draconias are still alive, a dream where Lilia can live peacefully, just take Malleus’s hand—

SILVER COMING IN CLUTCH, he and Sebek vow to break Malleus’s “blessing”. It’s this word that allows Lilia to fully awaken!!! ⏰ He’s so proud of Silver and Sebek…

They fight (well, Lilia distracts Malleus), then Silver uses his UM to hop into another dream.

They run into Ortho?! And then everyone is dropped off in front of Ignihyde.

FINALLY, SHROUD BROTHERS RETURN RIGHT AT THE VERY END!! I was wondering what they were doing while all this shit went down in Lilia's dream... It sounds like the next book 7 update will start off with Idia and Ortho, most likely told via flashback. I assume Ortho was able to help Idia wake up somehow?

This update felt like we got a lot of new lore!! But many of the events that played out were things we already had an inkling about prior to all of this (Meleanor dying, Lilia going on his travels eventually, Lilia helping Malleus hatch, etc.). It's nice to get the confirmation and to have the gaps of time inbetween filled in.

I really appreciate the story showing us just how hard Lilia's life was and then showing us just how important a nugget of happiness after all of that was so worth it for that moment. His VA did a stellar job with the voice acting this update, particularly the sobbing once Malleus hatched. I loved seeing Lilia's travels and how they gradually affected his own mindset over time... how he learned many different things from the people he encountered, and how he passed on that knowledge onto Malleus.

I liked seeing the origins of Lilia’s UM (he’s on a journey to find an answer)! Hearing about Sebek’s was also interesting; seeing as he’s a late bloomer with his magic and how he’s always competing with Silver, his UM manifested when Silver had been admitted to NRC and Sebek was training alone. I wonder if the UM also (in part) rose out of a feeling of inadequacy or feeling like he has to “catch up” to where Silver, Malleus, and Lilia are. No matter how hard it may be, he wants to push past his limits and serve as a knight. Maybe that, too, is why his UM prioritizes power and speed at his own body’s expense. It’s great seeing Sebek open up a little more and insist on fighting alongside fae; in modern day, Sebek has had to fight alongside humans. This is bridging the two sides of himself and helping him to reconcile with his own prejudices 😭

THE WHOLE DRAMA WITH THE SENATE MAKES ME UNDERSTAND WHY LILIA DROPPED THAT LINE ABOUT HISTORY BEING ALTERED OR REWRITTEN. It all makes so much sense now... Lilia himself (at least him hatching Malleus) was written out of history even though he did so much to help his country. He was so disliked, shunned, and shown animosity from the powers that be, and now he doesn't wish for that to happen to others, especially not to Malleus, the one good thing in his life and all that remained of the friends he lost along the way. You really see his teachings coming through in Silver and Sebek when they face off against OB Malleus towards the end. And the way I screeched when Lilia finally woke up after that...

The more I see OB Malleus, the more I get this skin-crawling feeling around him. I know the other OB boys have done arguably worse things (attempted murder, for example) but there's something so awful and insidious about the way Malleus speaks. He's intentionally gaslighting and manipulating others to just give in to his control, taking advantage of even Lilia at his lowest moments to dominate his thoughts. That's scary to think about... especially the dark inversion of Malleus urging Lilia to take his hand, when the game started off with a much more light-hearted and inviting "take my hand" offer.

Anyway!! I've been wondering for a long time what the Shrouds have been up to, and I'm so excited to see their story next update!!

[flos-obsessivus]

YANDERE SFW ALPHABET - LILIAN

This is the full post for the 250 follower milestone! Thank you so much for those who participated! I had to cut it off early because it's nearing 500 followers and I'll be busy these next few days. Please enjoy!

Affection: How do they show their love and affection? How intense would it get?

Honestly, he has all 5 love languages, words of affirmation – he needs to know that you love him, and he himself will declare everyday, every hour, every minute, how much he loves you. Quality time and Physical touch, both go hand in hand as cuddling is a big part of both of your routines. And as an Isolating type, it’s inevitable that he would always stay by your side if you’re locked up in the castle.

Acts of service, another one that’s important to him, if he serves you well, that means he’s a good husband and lover right? Worshippers are usually this way so that’s understandable. And finally, gift giving, he’s a prince, money is not a problem to him, so anything that your heart desires, be it jewelry, another kingdom, or the horns of the great fae, nothing will stop him if you ask for it.

Blood: How messy are they willing to get when it comes to their darling?

He himself will not spill blood, but everyone knows he is the crown prince of a whole kingdom, and that kingdom has many people that adore him. Ordering the guards to kill those who are a threat to you and him is easy to do, having people accept the murders is even easier.

Cruelty: How would they treat their darling once abducted? Would they mock them?

He’s actually a very good host, he’s very attentive and makes sure that all your needs are met, be it food or entertainment, he’ll be happy to serve you well.

He would never do anything that would mock you, for it shows how much of a bad lover he is. It’s supposed to be a happy ending, so why would he say anything negative to you? Both of you should be happy and his heart can’t take it if he does anything bad to you, outside locking you up that is.

Darling: Aside from abduction, would they do anything against their darling’s will?

Nope, he's too much of a good boy for that. He's more of a worshipper, obsessive type. So to him, you are more important than he would ever be. Anything that is outside of your comfort zone is a big no.

Exposed: How much of their heart do they bare to their darling? How vulnerable are they when it comes to their darling?

VERY VULNERABLE! He could never, ever, manage to hide his love for you, from his words to his body language, it’s obvious how much love is packed in that body of his. He is, and always will be honest, he just has a way to word it so people will not think ill of his person. As a prince, clear communication and flowery words are important, to you though, both of those are thrown out the window. 

Fight: How would they feel if their darling fought back?

Incredibly sad, the only reason why you would fight back is because you still haven't learned to love him! That's why you're very irritable, right? He just needs to understand you, as your true love it is important to know everything about you.

So, of course he'll do anything! W-well except letting you go of course...

Game: Is this a game to them? How much would they enjoy watching their darling try to escape?

It’s not a game to him, it’s a life or death situation, literally. His curse makes him desperate to find his true love, but also, he’d rather die than not have you, or in this case, stay in eternal sleep because he knows the only way he’d wake up is from your kiss.

Hell: What would be their darling’s worst experience with them?

The worst thing that he'll do is isolate you until you love him, he wouldn't hurt you, he wouldn't force you to love him. Instead he will wait... Wait by your side as he takes care of you, wait on his knees as he looks at you like you hung the moon, wait until you finally love him.

Ideals: What kind of future do they have in mind for/with their darling?

Marriage and children! Also ruling over the rosen kingdom. It’s a royal’s duty to create heirs for the throne, and as his true love, marriage is inevitable right? 

Jealousy: Do they get jealous? Do they lash out or find a way to cope?

He definitely does, it’s incredibly obvious too considering it shows so expressively on his face, how his cheeks puffs up in jealousy, mouth turned down into a pout, and how he grips your sleeve so tightly. He never blames you for it though, rather, it’s always going to be the other person’s fault for trying to seduce you. His way of coping is believing that the other person is just a toy of yours, one day you’ll get sick of them and finally go back to him.

Kisses: How do they act around or with their darling?

So in love, it’s actually harder for him to mask his emotions when he’s around you. Yes, he manages to keep his face still but there are other parts of him that are harder to control. The redness of his cheeks, the trembling of his hands, the weakening of his knees, and the growing love for you in between his legs. If you are good at reading people, you’ll realise there's so many parts of him that sing a different song.

Love letters: How would they go about courting or approaching their darling?

Oh he’s very sweet, usually courtship is very straightforward during his time, often just straight up asking if they wish to be wed during a ball, even arranged marriage is part of it. Lilian however, has the right to choose who and how he’ll court someone. I can see him courting you with gifts and such, and though he rarely sings, he is willing to woo you with his amazing voice. Every chance where he gets to sing in front of you, he’ll take it. He’ll even dedicate a whole song just for you. (Idol! Lilian everyone? Also Once upon a dream by Lana del Rey)

Mask: Are their true colors drastically different from the way they act around everyone else?

Yes and no. He still acts the same with you and with the other people, his kindness and beauty is for all. However, the only difference is that with other people he is calm, even with uncomfortable situations he is still as level headed as the crown prince should be.

On the other hand, when he's with you, it gets harder to control his emotions. Even if he looks calm on the outside, just know he is so close to losing control of his affection for you. It becomes obvious when part of his routine is to find you to talk to you or just stalk you.

Naughty: How would they punish their darling?

Isolation, and more bonding time with him! If you tried to escape or managed to actually escape, he'd just try harder to make you love him so you wouldn't escape. Physically hurting you is a big no no. To him, how he treats you reflects on what kind of person he is. If he hurts you, he's no more less than a brute.

Oppression: How many rights would they take away from their darling?

Only being able to get out of the room. However, he’ll make it so all of the things you need are available to you. Entertainment, books, anything that you need he’ll bring it to you. He’ll do anything, as long as it’s not letting you go outside until you fall in love with him.

Patience: How patient are they with their darling?

Very patient, he is not blessed with kindness for nothing. To be fair, he never sees anything as your fault, it’ll always be him or someone else. 

Quit: If their darling dies, leaves, or successfully escapes, would they ever be able to move on?

Never. As his only true love, his heart will always be with you. If you die, his heart is buried with you. If you escape, he will do anything to find you, if you manage to escape to a neighbouring kingdom... Menelaus started a war to bring Helen of Troy back, do you think he will not do the same?

Regret: Would they ever feel guilty about abducting their darling? Would they ever let their darling go?

Yes he does feel incredibly guilty, but he wouldn’t let you go. It’s more of a risk for the whole kingdom if he lets you go, because everybody knows it's only time before he regrets letting you go. War is not off the table if he knows one of the kingdoms is harbouring you.

Stigma: What brought about this side of them (childhood, curiosity, etc)?

Since his birth, he has been revered for being the beloved prince of the Rosen Kingdom. From childhood to adulthood, he is expected to be lovely and kind to everyone, though it comes naturally to him, it still tires him at times. Due to his curse, his parents become overprotective, fearing that the great fae will find him and hurt him before the cursed day comes. He rarely gets to go out of the castle due to this, instead he would stay in the library when he has free time. He discovers books through this where there is always a happy ending in every fairytale.

He thinks of himself as a damsel in distress, being stuck in the castle guarded because of his status. Since then he always tries to seek out his prince charming, or his knight in shining armour, or just his true love. Because if he finds his true love, the person who loves him for him and not his charm, the person who will save him from his curse... He'll be able to finally live normally...

Tears: How do they feel about seeing their darling scream, cry, and/or isolate themselves?

Devastated! He’ll cry with you, for his heart is yours, and when you cry, his heart will cry. He already basically isolates you so, it’s not as odd, however if it extends to you refusing to touch him, he’s very pouty and sad. He needs his daily affection or he’ll be heartbroken.

Unique: Would they do anything different from the classic yandere?

For this one, I don’t know, what classifies a classic yandere? Is it the dominant abusive type that seems to be most popular today? Or the ‘I will kill everybody who even looks at you’ type? There are many definitions of a classic yandere, these two are what I’ve seen a lot in other stories.

In that case, he’s the type to never hurt you, he’s mainly a submissive and worshipper type, with other types mixed in (Obsessive type as I said in Darling). He truly, truly loves you, and he refuses to even harm a single strand of your hair. Killing people is too much for him, oftentimes letting servants do it for him. He is still kind at heart, as is the blessing given by his fairy godmother. 

Vice: What weakness can their darling exploit in order to escape?

His love for you! As I said for Darling, he is the worshipper type, so your word is law. If it means making you happy, he's willing to do anything, as long as you make sure not to make him aware of your plans to escape. If you do manage to escape though, you can barely get anywhere before you get caught by the guards. 

You can escape Lilian yes, but you cannot escape the kingdom itself, especially from his influence.

Wit’s end: Would they ever hurt their darling?

Nope! Hurting you also hurts him, how he treats you reflects on how he is as a person. Please refer to Unique and Naughty for more info!

Xoanon: How much would they revere or worship their darling? To what length would they go to win their darling over?

So, so much. You are more important than anything in his life, after all, you are the one who would dictate whether he lives past 21 or not. Well, you and the great fae but! He only wants you. Money, fame, and power and one of the few things he can give. His entire being is also not off the table.

Yearn: How long do they pine after their darling before they snap?

Honestly, until the day before his 21st birthday. However, the closer that day comes, the more desperate he becomes. Of course, he’ll want his curse to break and you are the only one who could, so before that happens he makes sure that you fall in love with him. If you still reject him, he’ll lose the will to keep going and accept his inevitable eternal sleep. At least then he will be dreaming of you forever.

Zenith: Would they ever break their darling?

Only by accident, one person can only stay in one place for so long before they go crazy. Yes, Lilian is there with you, but talking to only one person everyday can cause so many issues. Desperation can make you do things you’ll regret, breaking you is one of them. Let’s just hope it’s Stockholm syndrome and not your will to live. 

[domxmarvel]

Twisted wonderland-Card writing challenge-round 2

Masterlist 

Riddle

Riddle’s birthday was going smoothly so far,you were standing to the side when Carter walked up to you.

“Y/N,could I ask you for a favor?”

“What do you need?” He handed you his phone.

“I've been trying to get a good photo of Riddle,but he never smiles genuinely” He was right,you looked up at him signaling for him to continue. “He smiles whenever he's with you,so do your thing so I can get at least one good photo. That doesn't look like I forced him to smile” 

“Fine I'll help,be ready” You handed the phone back to him. You sat down on the arm of his chair,putting your arm around his shoulder. “Having fun?” 

“I am,thanks”

“Why are you thanking me?”

“Because I'm assuming you and Trey did most of the work,and I've already thanked him” He was smiling at you,like you were the only person here. There was a flash of light and he immediately looked over to Carter.

“Got it” 

Malleus

Sitting there Malleus looked every bit the dangerous and cruel fae,that you knew he wasn't. It made you wonder if he would still be like that once he was king,would he change? Would he turn into the cruel fae you were told stories about? 

“Y/N” Lilia nudged your shoulder,making you turn to look at him. “He's called your name like three times already”

“oh,sorry”

“Darling, are you feeling alright?” Before you could say anything else,he added “Perhaps you should sit down,come here” You took a few steps towards him,he leaned in and pulled you down to sit on his lap. 

“Malleus,I shouldn't be”

“it's fine,I want you here”

Lilia

When you opened your eyes you didn't recognize the room,you tried to move only to find your hands had been tied behind your back. Frantically you looked around,the door opened letting a blinding ray of light. 

“Finally you're awake”

“Who are you? Where am I?” 

“Those questions will get you nowhere,because they don't matter. You're here for one reason,you're going to help me take down your general”

“You'll never defeat him”

“I don't have to fight him,once he finds out I have you he’ll beg on his knees for your return” You knew he was wrong,once lilia found out all hell would break loose. He wouldn't stop until you were back with him. 

“You’re wrong,once he finds out where I am. You’ll be the one begging him for mercy” As if on cue there was a crash followed by a guard rushing in.

“What’s going on?”

“He’s here,he’s found us and-” Before he could say anything else the door was kicked open,Lilia walked in,his anger clear on his face.

“Lilia” His eyes shifted to you for a brief moment before he fought them off. Once they were both on the ground he rushed over to untie you,pulling you into a tight embrace.

“Y/N,I’m sorry it took me so long”

Jade

It was the end of the night and you were sitting down for a slice of cake with Jade and Floyd,you enjoyed seeing them happy. Which led to you just staring at Jade a few times.

“Something wrong?”

“Nothing,just-”

“Too slow” Floyd leaned over taking the strawberry off of Jade’s slice,laughing as he ate it. Jade didn’t seem bothered at all,but you still picked up your strawberry and held it up to him.

“Here” He opened his mouth,letting you feed him. He handed you the rest of his slice and at first you were confused but you quickly figured out what he wanted. You feed him piece by piece.

“Happy birthday” He smirked at you before leaning over to kiss you.

Floyd

“What happened to you?” He was still smiling despite being covered in what looked like paint. He laughed at your question.

“I messed up during potions class” 

“You’re not hurt are you?”

“No” He smirked “Shrimpy,were you worried about me?” You rolled your eyes at him.

“You should get cleaned up” You turned back to your room,a second later you felt something hit your back. Reached to touch it,you realize it as the same paint that covered Floyd. “Floyd!” You turned and tackled him,you pinned him down which was easier than you thought.  He looked up at you and noticed that his face had turned red. You quickly got up and turned your back to him again. “Get cleaned up” You tried to leave but he quickly pulled you back to him,picking you up bridal style. 

“You need to get cleaned up too”

“We don’t have to shower at the same time,put me down”

“No,I’ll get lonely without you”

Leona

“Where are you taking me exactly?” You asked,he handed you your camera before opening the door for you.

“It’s a surprise,just get in '' Ever since you joined him for this visit he seemed more energized and he was more clingy. He had already taken you around the city,showing you various places but this time it seemed you were going outside of town. The Sunset savanna was beautiful, it was like a movie and you managed to tear your eyes away long enough to take photos. The wind through your hair and the music blaring made it feel like a dream. You turned to look at Leona,who had one hand on the wheel while the other brushed through his hair. He looked happier than you had seen him since you got here,because despite him being more energetic and clingy you also felt that he was sad,he tried to hide it but you knew him well enough to be able to see through it. Now he looked genuinely happy and carefree in this moment,it was a moment and a smile you wanted to keep forever. Lifting up your camera you took a photo, “I thought you wanted photos of my home land not me” He laughed but it made you sad,had no one ever taken a photo of him?

“Leona,when’s the last time someone took a photo of you?” He thought about it for a while,which made it clear no one had in a long time. “What about your portrait then?”

“My portrait?” He seemed surprised that the thought even crossed your mind. “I don’t have one” He paused,before quickly adding “Well I was in one but it was my fathers portrait,but I was really young at the time”

“So no one’s taken photos of you and you don’t have a portrait?” He raised an eyebrow.

“I don’t get the big deal,why do you care so much if I have pictures of myself? I know what I look like and I can always look in a mirror” 

“Because you deserve to have them,you should have a portrait and photos. You’re beautiful and you need to be reminded of that,I love taking photos of you because it means I get to keep that moment and that smile with me”

“Maybe I should get that portrait,just don’t expect me to smile during it” You both laughed “Y/N”

“Yes?”

“Thanks”

Jack

“Hey have you figured out your costume?”

“I have,Leona and Ruggie are dressing up with me”

“Is it anything I can coordinate with?” You asked,he thought for a moment before smirking. 

"Actually there is”

***

“I love you,but don’t you think this too much?” You liked the costume,but it felt weird being dressed like this. 

“Why are you cold?” 

“No,I just feel weird dressed like this”

“Well I think you look beautiful,and I’m about to steal you away from this lame party” Before you could say anything else,he picked you up and threw you over his shoulder. 

“Jack”

“It’s captain”

Vil

“You ready? Roi du Poison will be thrilled to see you in uniform”

“How do I look?” You looked in the mirror,it was strange seeing yourself in the Pomefiore uniform. 

“Perfect,let’s go” Rook was only too happy to help you with this surprise. He told you where to go so you could go by yourself while he led Vil there,tricking him into thinking there was a new student he had to meet. You walked up to him,head down so he couldn't see you.

“So you’re the new student,lift your head and face me properly” He used his housewarden voice,his tone strict making it clear he wouldn't accept mistakes. You heard him mumble something about your posture before he saw your face. “Y/N” He rushed over to stand in front of you. “You’re beautiful” Looking you up and down,a faint blush across his cheeks. “Have you ever thought about joining Pomefiore?”

“No,but I could be persuaded”

Rook

“Rook?” There was a knock at your door and when you answered it,there was a note along with a flashlight. Now you were wandering around Pomefiore in the dark,with only a flashlight. The only other light being the candles scattered around. The whole dorm was empty of students and part of you was starting to think Rook was just messing with you. “Rook?” A light drew your attention to one of the rooms,the curtains had been pulled back to let in the moonlight. Looking slightly lower you saw a coffin,and a sound drew your attention to it. Cautiously you approached. “Rook I swear if you scare me,I’ll never forgive you” 

“Why would I do that?” He moved to sit up in the coffin,but not completely he was still laying all his weight on it. Your eyes immediately went to his fangs,he jumped out in one swift motion and walked up to you. “You like them?”

“Why do they look so real?”

“Magic” He answered briefly,smirking as he moved even closer pushing you against the door. “Do you want to feel them?” Rook’s presence was just intoxicating and you pulled him closer to you.

“Yes” 

Idia

“Can we leave now?”

“We’ve been here for less than five minutes?” He tried giving you his puppy eyes but you quickly looked away.  “We need to stay a bit longer,just stay next to me” You reached your hand out for him to take. His grip got tighter when anyone would approach you,hiding behind you slightly. He let go for a moment to text someone before taking your hand again. “Everything okay?” He just nodded,not telling you anything else. Fifteen minutes later you turned back to him. “We can leave now if you want” His eyes lit up before he started leading you to the door. You did notice he was leading you the opposite way but you still followed.

Next thing you knew you were sitting in a boat with him,he was blushing furiously, his hair was pink and he couldn’t face you. He glanced at you quickly before looking away again,you relaxed and leaned on him,shoulder to shoulder. His hand slowly moved to your waist,you could feel him shaking. Wrapping an arm around him,you pulled him closer. He finally looked at you fully,and you took the opportunity to kiss him.

“We should do this more”

“The boat ride or the kiss?” You kissed him again.

“Both”

***

I'll be doing a third and final round,so as a one time bonus I'll be adding two extra characters. The top 2 character are the one's I'll be writing for. And if you have any suggestions for any of the characters,feel free to send them my way.

[dotster001]

Hi i don't know, if your requests are still open, if not you can ignore it or do it whenever you want.

Just readed your prompt, when reader suddenly passes out with Vil, Jamil, Floyd and Rook. I was wondering, if you could write something similar for Malleus, Lilia and maybe the teachers Trein and Crewel?

(I'm happy you enjoyed those! And I hope you like these too!)

Part One Part Three

CW:Burnout (obviously), mental breakdown/trauma in Trein's part, spoilers for Vargas training camp in Trein's part, injury in Crewel's part

A/N: I've said this in my pin post, but I age up characters to actual college age, because I am in college, and didn't realize until a few months in the characters were not. Everyone here is. 18+ If it makes you feel more comfortable, imagine this as a grad school situation.

He's been pouting a lot lately. Which for a normal person wouldn't be a problem, but Mal's pouting usually meant that the weather was bad as well. He was pouty, because whenever you had time in your incredibly busy schedule to see him, you still had to be working on your homework. With everything Crowley had you do for the school, you had to share your "dragon time" with your "homework time". But your boyfriend looked very cute pouty, so part of you wasn't too upset about it.

Until the day you were so busy with something that you hadn't eaten or slept in over 24 hours and just…collapsed during dragon/homework time.

Malleus immediately panics. He assumes you have had a heart attack and died (Mal…college students are unlikely to have heart attacks)  Once he finds a pulse, and sees your breathing, he scoops you up and teleports to Lilia faster than he has ever teleported.

He's sobbing as he answers Lilia's questions, not entirely certain that this wasn't something he did. Lilia easily is able to figure out what has happened, and goes to make you some soup for when you wake up. Malleus is too relieved to think about the fact that while Lilia's soup will have loads of protein, it might send you into shock. In the meantime, he puts a cool cloth on your forehead, and caresses your cheek.

After you wake up and barely survive the soup Malleus spoon feeds you he tucks you into his massive comfy bed (you can't tell me he doesn't have the fluffiest comforters) and then…vanishes.

From here on out, everytime you get a task from Crowley, it's already finished by the time you get around to it. It's weird, but it means you have time to keep homework separate from "dragon time". Which makes a certain fae very happy.

Lilia has spent years learning how to care for humans, especially since most of them *cough* Silver *cough cough* Y/N are not good at caring for themselves.  While his recipes are terrible, he is right in some ways about making sure to get all your nutrients. While it can feel a little patronizing sometimes, he is right that you need sleep. While he is a little unorthodox in how he has fun, he's right that you need to have leisure time and do things you enjoy.

What you don't know is that behind the scenes Lilia has already been having regular arguments with a certain Crow about your workload. When two fae fight, it's never good, but you don't have to worry about what's going on.

Azul and the tweels get called back home out of nowhere, and now you're in charge of all the paperwork that he is usually in charge of handling, both for the lounge and for the other Housewarden's. Lilia sees less and less of his sweet human, and he's suspicious part of it is because you are avoiding him, knowing full well he would make you take a break.

He has to admit, your avoiding skills are actually pretty good. So he's not actually there when you collapse. And he's furious. Especially when he finds out that Crowley also decided to add his own paperwork to your ever growing pile. He only knows you collapsed when he hears some randos gossiping about how "the prefect collapsed running laps today, and the idiot duo had to walk them to the infirmary." He's immediately flying to the infirmary, powered by his pure rage.

He knows it's not your fault, especially since you have nothing to your name in this world, so it's easy to manipulate you into this position. So he does his best not to take his anger out on you as he watches you sip apple juice that the nurse gave you, while you do your best to keep your eyes open. Once he is certain that the nurse has things under control, he kisses your forehead, and asks you if you want him to bring you anything.

While he's out getting you a treat, he makes a stop at a certain Crow's office. From here on out you don't see a lot of him. You are a little worried that Lilia may have killed him, but everytime you ask him, he giggles and messes up your hair, before telling you how silly that is.

He's harder on you than he is on most of his students, partially so that no one can claim favoritism, partially because you are just so far behind in history (having it not be your history) that he has to give you extra work and lessons to catch you up. But as a trade off, he tries to be a step ahead of Crowley whenever he can. There's little that happens in the school that he's unaware of, so he's usually able to protect you from his foolish boss.

Until you get sent to the training camp with the sports clubs to assist Vargas. He's furious about this last minute decision, that Crowley conveniently forgot to tell him about, and he's even more angry when he later finds out that you were "kidnapped" and then immediately had to fight a creature in the mines. 

Naturally, your mental health is not so great after the trip. He's starting to see it on your face when you both hang out, and even if he didn't, your work for his class is deteriorating, if you even turn it in at all. 

Then you break down one day when he asks you about it. He can't understand a word you're saying as you sob and yell and shake. But he's pretty sure he has the idea. You've been pushed too far. He sends Lucius to fetch a nurse or counselor , or heck he's sure even Sam would have something to help you relax enough to just breathe. In the meantime, he wraps his arms around you and tries to walk you through breathing exercises, while whispering some praises to you that you can't comprehend in this state, but appreciate all the same.

After someone gives you a potion that helps you relax a little, he leaves you to rest on his office couch with Lucius in charge, and he holds a meeting with the rest of that staff about what's not appropriate to put people through. (Essentially it's Crewel and Trein yelling at Vargas and Crowley about trauma and what their job is supposed to be) 

This never happens again. You continue to have extra work from Trein, but he always ensures he makes time to help you, or give you a soothing tea if he thinks you're starting to drop back into the bad mental state. If you do, he holds you close, and says nothing, while allowing you to spill whatever is plaguing you. 

Prior to him dating you, you had denied his request many times to financially sponsor you. Now that you were together, it was harder to come up with an excuse for him not to. So he'd purchased Ramshackle and renovated it. He'd taken up the expenses for your schooling and food (after much argument  he'd also taken up Grim's) and after several discussions about the future of your relationship, he'd begun helping you through the process of becoming a citizen in a world that had no proof of your existence (a pain and a half, but there was nothing he wouldn't do for his beloved pup). In doing all this, he'd made it very clear to the Headmage that he had no hold over you, and therefore couldn't coerce you into anything.

Divus knew he was a fool for leaving you alone for a week. He had assumed that Crowley had nothing on you anymore, and that he could go help a smaller fashion designer that showed a lot of promise get their career off the ground. At first he was only going to be gone for a week, but it quickly turned into two, then three. He should have recognized the tension in your voice when you'd asked him over the phone when he thought he'd be back. 

When he finally returned, he thought he'd surprise you by showing up where he knew you'd be hanging out with your friends. He'd bought a ring for you that he was particularly pleased with, and he wanted you to have it as soon as possible. His plan was dashed as he watched you collapse into Howl, who immediately started to panic.

With a clear voice Divus took over the scene, picking you up and carrying you to his office where he had all manner of potions. As he pressed one to your lips, he noticed a cast on your arm. He'd ask about it later. 

When you woke up, you wrapped your arms around him, and whispered how much you missed him. He asked what happened, and you tell him how you broke your arm in yet another overblot incudent, and had been working like crazy for Crowley to pay off the medical expenses. 

You've never been scared of your lover. But his eyes were practically glowing with rage, and now you were starting to wonder if you should be scared. Divus does not accept cruelty to animals or humans. And, he keeps his receipts. It's not long before there's a pretty hefty case and Dire is removed as headmage for coercion and endangerment. After that, there aren't any more overblot incidents and the students seem more mentally healthy. How about that?

He decides to wait to give you the ring until you're fully recovered after everything. But he's certain when he asks you the question that comes with it, you'll have an answer he likes. Especially when you nuzzle into him so sweetly while you nap in his office.

....

Tag list-@shytastemakerthing @stygianoir @leonia0 @lleoll

[paigeswrld]

Heart of Ice

Azriel x reader (sort of)

Angst (I think)

This is my first time ever writing so apologies if it's bad. I got very carried away on accident and it became much longer than intended. If anyone wants a part two maybe I will write one.

WC: 3.8k

Before Tamlin had barged into your home and destroyed your lives, you and Feyre had been inseparable. You were the second oldest, and felt a motherly responsibility for Feyre.  Elaine had Nesta, Feyre had you. That's how it always had been. You two hunted while the other two stayed inside, doing a small amount of household chores while you two were out.

But then Feyre was stolen from you and your heart was cleaved in two. She came back, and you had never felt such joy, except that joy didn't last. Feyre left almost as fast as she arrived. For love, she claimed. Love of the man that kidnapped her, forced her to live in the Spring court. Love that was worth more than her family, her sisters. What a load of shit. You knew that love between them wouldn't last, you told her as much before she left. When she did leave, she left without a single goodbye. The last words she said to you still ringing in your ears. How would you know what real love is, when no one's ever found you worthy of it? You knew what she was implying, that not even your own family loved you. Not even her. You swore you could feel your heart turn to ice as her words really sunk in.

You still hadn't forgiven her for it. Not when she showed up a second time, her new fae body and new fae male... males. She tried not to give it away, but you could see it on her face. She moved on to Rhysand, no longer in love with Tamlin. You couldn't help but say to her, after introductions had been made, I see you've moved on. What happened, Feyre? Tamlin no longer worthy of your love? She merely clenched her fists and gave a small, strained smile. You knew there was no going back, back to the way things used to be. So, as they explained what needed to be done, you kept quiet, let Nesta do the talking as she always does. That heart of ice only grew stronger with each visit.

---

When Hybern came to take you and your sisters away, you couldn't find it in yourself to fight back. You'd seen how strong they were, knew their magic would quickly subdue you should you try and fight it. So, you went willingly. Your sister Nesta screamed, clawed, bit. She did anything she could to get out of their grasps, to protect Elain. She begged you to take her, take Elain and run, she said. You didn't. Didn't feel like wasting your breath when it would take mere seconds for them to catch up, and surely make things worse for you all. You can still see the look of absolute betrayal on her face when all you did was walk towards Hybern's guards and put your wrists out for them to bind. You're not entirely sure she ever got over what you did, how easily you gave up. It was that moment, that final crack in the ice, that separated you and your sisters. The relationship between you and them truly destroyed.

---

Cool, calm, collected. That was how you appeared when they brought you in front of Feyre and the inner circle. That facade almost gave way when you saw Azriel hunched over, an arrow sticking out of him and blood dripping on the ground. Azriel, who had never given you the harsh glares like his brothers did, like everyone did. His soft smiles were the only hint of kindness you'd received in months. As you stood near the King of Hybern's throne, your eyes met hazel, and you could see the anguish in his eyes as he tried to move toward you, only to be pushed back by the arrow in his chest.

When it was your turn to enter the cauldron, after Elain, you simply put your hand up to stop the guards that attempted to grab you. Not wanting to give them the satisfaction, you walked right up to the cauldron. With your head held high, you climbed onto the lip of the cauldron, turned to the King and held his stare as you fell backwards into freezing darkness.

never in your life had you felt so, so cold. Freezing. Like the blood in your veins was turning solid. You opened your eyes and amidst the darkness was pale blue light emitting for your palms. As you looked around, small snowflakes seemed to drift through the darkness, and you put your finger out to touch one. As soon as you did, a blast of ice cold pain shot through you, from your finger straight through your arm into your heart, and you thought you might die. It was determination that got you to the top of the cauldron. You would not die at the hands of a Fae King, all because of a war you wanted nothing to do with. No, that was not how this was going to work. You grabbed the edges of the cauldron and pushed yourself up, out of the cauldron and onto the ground. It wasn't until you took a few breaths that you noticed it. The heightened senses made your whole body tingle, and as you looked up you could see everyone staring at you as if you were a foreign creature. You were, you supposed, but they way they were looking at you... You looked down, and around your feet were crystals of ice, a trail from where you had walked from the cauldron and as you looked at it, you could see the shards of ice where your hands had been as if they were ready to stab anyone who came too close.

The rest was a blur, Nesta went next, pointing at the King, Cassian's wings were shredded, Feyre went with Tamlin, and Mor winnowed us to what they called the House of Wind. Cassian and Azriel saw healers. Rhysand left, trying to calm down and not go after his mate. Mor showed us our rooms, Nesta demanded her and Elain share a suite, and you got a room down the hall from them. Nesta didn't say a single word to you as she guided Elain to their rooms and slammed the door. Still freezing, it wasn't until you got to your rooms, bathed in hot water, lit a fire, put on the warmest pajamas you could find, and lay under the mountain of covers that you finally let the tears fall.

---

Months passed by, the war was won and people were healing, yet you still couldn't bring yourself to do the same. Hel, even Nesta was better. Her and Cassian were happily mated, Feyre was a mother, Elain was finally starting to give poor Lucien the time of day, and you were... stuck. Stuck moping in your apartment, courtesy of the High lord and lady. Stuck feeling worthless, like you didn't belong. Nobody from the inner circle bothered to talk to you, and hadn't since you were made, save for Azriel, but you alway kept those conversations short, not having the energy for anything more. You'd tried to make friends, to find a family of your own, one that actually wanted you. But all of your efforts were futile, as all you felt was numb. Numb towards people, towards life in general. Everything felt exhausting, so you isolated yourself. Hardly ate, didn't talk to anyone, didn't leave the comfort of your small apartment, unless necessary of course. You spent your time as close to the fire as possible, or in the hottest bath you could get. You were always cold, and you were always numb. You'd been invited to the family dinners, but you never showed.

When Feyre was fully healed from birth, Rhysand stopped by, begging you to show up to dinner, claiming your sisters missed you. That Feyre wanted you to meet the baby. It was a lie. You knew it was. She didn't miss you, Rhysand just thought he knew what was best for her. They were better off without you, your miserable life, your ice cold heart. Unfortunately for you, Rhysand wouldn't leave. He came everyday knocking on your door and begging you to show. When you realized he wouldn't let up, you agreed. It was just one dinner, and after that, you would leave the court for good. You would no longer be their burden to bear, and you would leave them. Just as your sisters had left you.

That's how you found yourself in front of the River House, trying to muster up any feeling, excitement, nervousness, anger. Nothing. It seemed the ice around your heart was frozen so thick you couldn't find it in you to feel anything but that icy cold numbness. Would it be like this forever? With a deep breath, you knocked on the door. Almost too quickly, it opened and you were met face to face with the handsome shadowsinger.

His neutral expression was unnerving as he slowly looked you up and down. You could see the puzzled expression at the thick coat you wore, despite the warmer summer night. "Hello Y/N, I'm surprised you actually came."

"Rhysand promised to finally leave me alone if I showed up. So don't worry, you won't have to see me again after this."

His brows furrowed at your words, and he opened his mouth to say something before a quiet voice interrupted him.

"Y/N... You actually came." It was Elain, looking beautiful as ever in a soft blue gown. "Come, let's get you inside." She grabbed your arm as Azriel stepped to the side, his eyes never leaving your face.

She opened the coat closet, "You can put your coat in here-"

Cutting her off and stepping away from her you said, "I'll keep it on, thank you." You were still always cold, nothing enough to keep you warm. With a look of concern she grabbed your hand before quickly pulling back. "Your hand is freezing, are you feeling okay Y/N?"

You glanced at Azriel, who was watching you two even more intently, "Yes, I'm fine. I'm just cold from the walk here." She simply nodded her head as she led you toward the living room where the rest of the inner circle lounged.

The laughter stopped and all eyes were on you as you entered the room. You couldn't remember a time where you had felt more uncomfortable. It was Feyre who stood first, her eyes wide and she moved slowly towards you, as though you might strike her if she got too close. Out of the corner of your eye you could see Rhys watching you, almost daring you to make a wrong move and upset his mate. You simply stayed put, unsure of what to do.

It was her who made the first move, she said your name, hardly a whisper, before embracing you in a tight hug. It caught you so off guard you almost pushed her off of you. With your arms near her ribs you stilled, before slowly embracing her as well.

She whispered in your ear, "I'm so sorry. I'm so, so sorry for everything. I should have come to you sooner, should have tried to make amends. I just- I didn't know what to say."

You let go of her and grabbed her hands in yours, noticing her slight flinch at your icy hands, "I'm sorry too, for everything. We don't need to worry about that right now though. I never really told you congratulations on your newest addition. How is the baby?" It was then that you realized how isolated you truly were, you didn't even know the gender of the baby, nor its name.

A smile started on her lips, "He's absolutely wonderful, come meet your nephew." She pulled you over to Rhysand who was holding a purple bundle, inside it was the child.

Rhysand looked up at you, "Y/N, meet Nyx." You couldn't help the small smile that formed on your lips as you looked down at him, then back up at the high lord. "He has your hair, your wings. Lets hope he doesn't get your cocky personality too." Rhysand cracked a smile and from behind you, you could hear a small chuckle from the shadowsinger.

Feyre looked at you again and you knew what she was going to ask before she said, "Would you like to hold him?" You didn't want to. You didn't want to get attached to a nephew you would likely never see again, should your plans to leave this court actually work.

Before you could protest, Rhysand was handing you the sleeping baby. You willed your heart to stay calm, to fight the icy panic that creeped in. This child, your beautiful baby nephew, would not grow up with you around, would not know you. You could feel your body getting colder by the second, despite your efforts to fight against it. It tingled your fingers and the tips of them began to frost. All too quickly the cold seeped through the swaddle, and Nyx began to cry. 

The next few moments seemed to happen in a blur. One moment you were handing Nyx to a worried Feyre and the next you were across the room, pinned to the wall by a snarling Rhysand.

He was practically spitting in your face as he asked you, "What did you do? What did you do to him Y/N?!"

It was then that you noticed that the room was freezing. His breath clouded in front of you, and there was frost on the windows. It even seemed a little darker in the room.

"I- I don't know. I didn't mean to do anything Rhysand I swear!" His eyes were wild, his chest puffing up and down while Nyx still cried in the background.

Nobody dared say a word as Rhys kept you pinned against the wall, so hard it was starting to hurt.

A hand clamped on Rhys' shoulder, but his eyes didn't leave your face.

"Rhys, it was an accident."

It was Azriel, trying to defend you. Trying to stop Rhysand from ripping your face off for harming his son. But Rhysand didn't so much as blink at Azriel as continued gripping your shoulders, the ache becoming more and more unbearable.

Until suddenly, he was pushed away from you. All you saw was a muscular back and spread wings as Azriel got in between you two, blocking you, protecting you, from the high lord's wrath.

"It was an accident, Rhys, she didn't know what she was doing."

Rhysand stepped closer to him, "Get out of my way Az."

"I will not move until you've come to your senses. Until I am sure you won't do something you'll regret."

Suddenly it made more sense now, why Azriel bothered to step in. He was trying to keep his High Lord safe, safe from himself. Not keep you safe. You felt foolish for even thinking you were worth saving right now.

The stare down between the two of them seemed to go on for hours until finally, Rhysand let out a sigh and agreed not to do anything rash. Azriel backed down, tucking in his wings, and stepped to the side, still close to you.

The others in the room seemed to hold their breath as Rhysand looked at you again. "I'm sorry, males get very protective over their children, especially those new to parenthood." You simply stared at him with a face of indifference, but on the inside all you wanted to do was leave. Leave this place and never come back. "I didn't realize you had powers, or that they were causing such issues. You should have told us. We could have helped."

It took everything in you not to snap. You could feel the room's temperature drop as ice cold rage overtook your body. Rage, the first emotion you've truly felt in months. You didn't register the crystals of ice forming around your feet, on the wall behind you. No, all you saw was the High Lord, his family, all one big happy family. They were your family first. Your sisters. Not his. But he talks to you as if you are a part of this family. Like they care about you. You know they don't. They left you. Left you to grieve your human self, left with powers you didn't know how to control, and they left you to figure out your new body on your own. They could help Nesta and Elain, but not you. Certainly not you, you were not worthy of that kind of love.

It took everything in you to not show how hard you were shaking, to keep your voice steady as you said, "Do not act like you care about me. Not when I have been on my own for months, while you guys were busy frolicking through Velaris with your mates," your practically spat out the last word. "I waited for months. Months I sat around hoping that my sisters would give me the time of day, to be there for me like I had always been for them. Instead they left me in the dust while they embraced their new family." You turned to Feyre and that moment, who hugged Nyx closer to her chest. "You left me Feyre. You left me and didn't look back. You haven't bothered to look back even as I followed right behind you." Tears threatened to spill and your voice cracked. You would not cry.

She looked at you with pain in her eyes, "Y/N I never meant for any of that. You are part of this family. You-"

You cut her off, "Don't. Don't act like you care. Like any of you care. You've made it clear where I stand amongst you all." You looked around the room, as everyone avoided eye contact. Even Nesta and Elain. "I apologize for ruining your night. I will leave now, get out of your hair. Goodnight everyone."

Feyre tried to follow you as you walked away, but you heard her mate stop her. There was another, heavier pair of steps that followed you through the house and out the door. You ignored them.

"Y/N."

You ignored the voice. Ignored the shadows weaving through your legs as you walked.

"Y/N."

Just keep walking.

"Y/N."

You finally turned to face the annoying shadowsinger. "What do you want?"

"It's late. Let me winnow you home."

You stared at his unreadable face. You didn't understand why he was offering to take you home. Why he cared. "Is Rhysand making you do this? Because if so you can go home. I don't want their help."

"Nobody is making me do anything. I'm doing this because I want to. I want to make sure you get home safe." He looks at you with such sincerity, you actually contemplate allowing to take you home.

"Fine. Only because I'm too tired to walk right now." He simply smirks at you and grabs your hand, and immediately you are enveloped in shadows.

He winnows you directly into your small apartment, and his eyes immediately fall to the few bags you started packing.

He turns to you, eyebrows furrowed, "Going on a trip?"

You can't bring yourself to meet his gaze as you mumble, "Something like that."

"Where are you going?"

You look at him then, the confusion still evident on his face. "I don't know yet. I was thinking maybe the Winter court. I thought there might be someone who could help me understand my powers."

He almost looks offended at your words as he tells you, "You don't need to go to the Winter court for that. I can help you."

"I wasn't planning on coming back. I was planning on leaving without anyone knowing, and never speaking to any of you again." It was a low blow, but you wanted him out of here. You wanted him to stop acting like he cared about you.

His resolve cracked then, his cool demeanor turning into anguish as he looked at you, "Why won't you let me help you? I've tried since the beginning to get you to open up, to talk to me. But you push me away. you push everyone away. Why do you do that?"

You didn't expect him to be so blunt. You blinked for a moment before putting together what you wanted to say, "Because I'm afraid. The one person I could count on, Feyre, she left me, and completely shattered my heart in the process. All three of my sisters stopped talking to me and found their own family, with each other, without me. And I'm afraid that if I let someone else in they'll leave me, just like everyone else did." You were crying now, but didn't bother to wipe away the tears that turned to frost on your face.

Azriel raised his hand then, and paused right before it touched your cheek, as if he were afraid to touch you. "I won't leave you Y/N. I will help you figure out your powers, I can help you adjust to this new life, but you have to let me in. I've been trying to help from the beginning, you just wouldn't let me. I promise, if you let me help you, I won't leave you."

You took a deep breath, closing your eyes and trying to work through your emotions. You wanted to trust him. You wanted so badly to have someone you could lean on, who could help you through all of this. But that didn't stop the doubt from creeping in. You did your best to shove it away, deep down inside you. Something made you drawn to Azriel, made you trust him more easily than you would others. So you opened your eyes, took another deep breath, and said, "Okay."

Nothing could describe the radiance of the smile that lit up his beautiful face at that single word. His eyes crinkled and he let out a small breath as he finally rested his hand upon your cheek, wiping away the frost. You two stared at each other for a moment as he smiled, and you couldn't help the small one that creeped up on your face as well.

He said nothing as he pulled you into a big hug, his arms wrapping around your shoulders and head as his wings wrapped around the both of you. It was then that you finally felt safe, like nothing could hurt you. It was as if the chill that had permanently settled in your body had lifted, and for once since you had become fae, you finally felt warm.

[acourtofthought]

Genuine question, but why do you want Elucien together if they aren’t in love? They aren’t currently attracted to each other right now. They can’t even be in the same room.

Is it just the potential? Or promise of the mating bond or something?

Because I shipped Elucien too when they were declared mates. But by ACOFAS, I didn’t understand why suddenly SJM decided to have them not even interact. If they ever have a conversation I might jump back over to elucien, but so far-there’s nothing between them.

And we know there can be mates that aren’t good romantic pairings. Like Rhys’s parents. All signs are currently pointing to the fact that Elucien is also one of the incompatible pairs.

Idk I just don’t understand why I should keep rooting for them if there hasn’t been any development on the page? Am I missing something??

Genuine question: Why would I want to read a love story that starts with the couple already being in love? Were Claire and Jamie from Outlander in love at the start or was she in love with and married to another man? Where she married Jamie and STILL wasn't in love with him? Were Daphne and Simon in love at the start of Bridgerton? Was he not FORCED to marry her even when he didn't want to ever marry or have children? Were Elizabeth and Darcy infatuated with one another at the start of their book? You have no canon evidence that Elain isn't attracted to Lucien. The only canon evidence we have of anything is that Elain didn't want a male or a mate. Just like Nesta didn't want a mate in her book. But guess what? Those things change. Those are just hurdles for a character to overcome. By the end of her book Nesta proudly called Cassian her mate but she got into a fight with him over it at first. Yes Elain "shrinks back" from Lucien but why are you defaulting to one possible answer "she's not attracted to him"? When you look at SJMs style of writing, isn't it more likely that Elain withdraws from Lucien because he sees her too clearly and that scares her? When Feyre tells us that Elain has even Az beat for secret keeping, isn't it possible that Lucien is the one person who can see through the secrets Elain hides and it's intimidating? Because he might see that she's not as fine and content as she'd have the others believe? Something she wants them to keep believing as she's possibly worried about disappointing them? (Rhys's words). You're right, there are couples who might not be right for one another, evidenced by the example you provided with Rhys's parents. Rhys's father was cold and vicious. Does that sound like Lucien? Rhys's father immediately stole Rhys's mother away the second the bond snapped and married her that night. Does that sound like what Lucien did with Elain? Rhys's mother pleaded with his father to ban wing clipping but he refused. Has Elain asked anything of Lucien that he was unwilling to give her? I like Elucien because neither has to be anyone different if they end up together. Elain doesn't have to struggle with cruelty bothering her as she would if she ended up with a torturer. She doesn't have to hide in the shadows as she would if she ended up with Az. She would get to enjoy balls and party and socializing in a way she wouldn't if her partner was Az who prefers his alone time. She'd get to share her love of nature with someone who the author also confirms is happiest in nature. I like the thought of Elucien because it's so clearly written on the wall that they are right for one another though it's normal that Elain isn't ready to face that yet as she's still processing trauma and figuring out who she is as a fae female. Or maybe she does realize it and it's what scares her, she already suffered rejection and a broken heart from Graysen, I don't imagine she's prepared to run into someone else's arms who has the power to hurt her. My guess is SJM hasn't had them interact because the second Elain and Lucien have a real conversation, it's over for both of them. Their hearts will be gone, flying into the palms of the other. It's more exciting to read about all that in their own POVs rather than someone else's. You don't have to root for anyone you don't like. Hell, Elucien could be endgame and you still don't need to root for them. But I grow a little tired of people acting clueless as to why Elucien's still love the idea of them together and why it's really not a problem that they aren't talking right now.

[zippidi-dooda]

I am loving this event way more than I thought I would (haven't fully gone through it yet)

But I was not expecting Vil to go ham on insults

And this was just from what I played through today

Glad I'm not actually there cause I'd be in the background like "OOOOHHH! DAMN VIL, YOU TELL 'IM!!!" And Leona would hate me

Also love how we get the representation of someone who hates kids, I feel like there are few to no shows that demonstrate it

Cheka is cute and I love him, but I can understand Leona

To be honest, Leona has never really been on my roster, I am more of a Malleus/Deuce/Rollo type of gal

Leona just seems like someone more fun to bugger with

But this ...

This reveal???

Jaw dropping, king of the jungle for real, hubba hubba, hot dayum--Malleus forgive me

Another moment that I am glad I wasn't there for cause I was all over the other three's "take off the overcoat" reveal and would've been fan-girling over them, whooping and gassin' 'em up,

But the difference in how my reaction to seeing them compared to Leona would've been obvious

His aura was just so different and he doesn't show off his strength, he prefers brain over brawn, but now he was so smug about it

Like, yes, that's what I live for

Not to mention that I personally love the idea of "flirt fighting" which entails actually sparring. Wanting to better defend and strengthen yourself is the main motivator, but tension is a great plus.

And that's essentially everything he's doing here???

Get me in the ring with him, I will lose but I will enjoy every second of it

And then, when all's said and done,

He takes the time to actually voice his evaluation and assessment of everyone in a straightforward and nice way

I feel like I got to see a side of Leona I hadn't before and I'm really liking it

I remember reading a post about how Leona doesn't really resemble Scar who he's twisted from during the Book of Savanaclaw, where there was some good points made (namely, he kinda sat back while Ruggie did most of the dirty-work, it was on Leona's behalf but we didn't see much of him stringing Ruggie around).

But in this event we really get to see the "Scar Side" of Leona. His wit, his cunning and the issues that motivate Leona; he wants change for the better of his pride and knows how to get there quick, but others won't listen cause they have other values they'd like to keep in tact and it irritates him that they're putting the things that are (in his mind) more insignificant, first.

And I think introducing that part of Leona in this event instead of in Book of Savanaclaw works amazingly well because Leona is a prince, he is at NRC to learn yes but stays there (probably also gets held back on purpose so he'll have an excuse to stay away from home) to forget about his frustrations with his homeland. So, I think he wouldn't have much incentive to want to fix as much in his dorm or the school since his problems mainly lie back in his Kingdom.

Anyway, this is plenty fuel for happiness and story ideas and that's about all I have to share right now

(Also, the bow Grim is wearing is most similar to Leona's garb and since we are "a package deal" I'm assuming we're both wearing similar prints. So, we may be matching spectacularly with Leona. Dunno about you, but I'd gladly follow along as if I'm his trophy wife-- again, I'm sorry, Malleus don't come for me-- and also this is just more story fuel ...)

"Leona x reader x Malleus"

The story goes through the whole Cloud Calling event, with Y/N learning there's so much more to the lazy beastman than thought originally. But, when Lilia shows off the group's trip photos, Malleus is enraged to see you leaning happily against Leona in what are practically couples' clothes, the smug smirk the lion is sporting seems to be targeted specifically at the fae. What will happen when you return to NRC from your trip? Find out in the next episode

[allykakamatsu]

Twisted Wonderland DnD

Title says it all, basically here's what I think the NRC boys classes and species would be in Dnd

Notes:

This is me trying to adapt their powers not what they would pick, for example if I was going on what they'd pick Epel with be a goliath barbarian

Everyone's going to have a level cap of 15, with the exceptions of Leona, Malleus and Lilia cause they're noticeably older than everyone else so I felt fair giving them a few more levels due to more experienced.

I'm sticking to cannon species if I can, but I will be mixing it up in the cases where either A, there isn't a good substitute or B, I think it would be funny.

Just cause I like to I tried to give everyone a multi-class. Also this is being done with base 5e rules so none of the new 2024 stuff.

Obviously this is just for fun idc about being optimal here.

And with that House Keeping done, let's go!

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Riddle: Human, 3 Zealot Barbarian 12 Abjuration wizard

A caster with barbarian levels, well if there was ever a way to prove this was just for fun this would be it- Jokes aside the subclass doesn't matter too much here, I just had to squeak some barb levels in here cause of Riddle being a very angry boi plus him somehow having the strength to throw Floyd across the room during their orientation. The wizard levels are more straightforward, he's a smart boi and abjuration is where all the 'no magic allowed' spells are so yeah.

Ace: Human, 8 Arcane Trickster Rogue 7 Glamour Bards

Unlike everyone else sans Ortho, I didn't really have any unique magic stuff to use as a baseline for Ace, however one of his talents is sleight of hand tricks so I figured rogue would be a good fit, and Arcane Trickster with it's invisible mage hand in particular would be pretty fitting. As for bard, that one's mainly to show that he's a show off and Glamour is the one I always kinda see as the most flashy. Plus, look me in the eye and tell me Ace wouldn't be a Vicious Mockery spammer.

Deuce: Human, 5 Champion Fighter 10 Redemption Paladin

Probably one of the easiest ones for me to figure out tbh. Some flavour of fighter for his delinquent days and him getting into a lot of fights then (I went champion cause of crits but tbh any could work), and then redemption paladin cause he's trying his god damn hardest to be a good boi now, not much more to it.

Trey: Human, 8 Transmutation Wizard 7 Shepard Druid

And in contrast to Deuce being one of the easiest to figure out, Trey might just be tied for the hardest because I did not know where to begin here. Eventually I went transmutation wizard cause all of it's spells are about changing something which fits with his UM, and then Druid due to the nature and healing spells combo being a decent fit for his cooking and his big brother instincts. Again, this is the one I'm least sure on so if you have any other ideas please tell me.

Cater: Half Elf, 10 Lore Bard 5 Illusion Wizard

That moment when I have to justify the species more than the class-. Tldr, some writers, namely @ladyazurith , have sold me on the concept of half fae Cater so I wanted to throw that in, and since their isn't a half fairy race half elf will have to do. Meanwhile the class was really easy, Illusion wizard cause while there's no spell that quite replicates 'Split Card' their collection comes close, and lore bard cause Cater as a bard just feels right, though I'm open to thoughts on the subclass.

(rest underneath cut). ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Leona: Tabaxi, 5 Battle Master Fighter, 11 Storm Sorcerer

I love my lazy cat man, in general but also here cause he's easy to figure out. Any fighter subclass would've worked, I just went battle master cause some of the manoeuvres like tripping felt like things Leona would do in a fight, and the Sorcerer levels were mainly cause I wanted to get him disintegrate which was the closest spell I could find to King's Roar, I just went storm cause none of the other sorcerer origins seemed like the best fit

Ruggie: Tabaxi, 12 Thief Rogue 3 Enchantment Wizard:

Another simple enough one. Given his upbringing thief rogue just made way to much sense, and as for enchantment wizard well, that's the school of magic Hideous Laughter and it's stronger Tasha version belong to and that's such a good fit for 'Laugh for Me' it's not even funny.

Jack: Shifter, 10 Moon Druid 5 Cavalier Fighter

Thank you Savannahclaw for being simple- Jokes aside, Moon Druid is the class all about better wildshape, the ability that lets you turn into animals so it's perfect for 'Unleash the Beast', and again the subclass didn't matter too much for the fighter I just wanted it for more melee strength (+Jack wanting to copy Leona) and I went cavalier cause I thought it would be funny if he got the bonuses when he was the mount- Also went shifter cause there's no werewolf race and I had to improvise

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Azul: Simic Hybrid, 10 Fathomless Warlock 5 Whispers Bard

And in complete contrast to the last dorm the Octotrio were collectively a pain to figure out. Eventually I did settle on this though. There's no octopus race so I went Simic Hybrid purely because it can have all kinds of aquatic limbs including octopus tentacles so 'close enough' and Whispers is the spy bard so all the public charms plus a lot of sneakiness. As for warlock, look, I know realistically Azul would more likely be a patron than someone making a devil deal given how he is, but I couldn't resist plus nothing's stopping him from making deals of his own to take down his boss-

Jade: Triton, 10 Spores Druid 5 Whispers Bard

Before anyone makes the joke yes the twins being a species named Triton is ironic but again I didn't have the best options here. That aside, the class here was easy enough, the bard levels were mainly for fast friends and zone of truth which combined make a pretty good representation of 'Shock the Heart' and I went Whispers for the same reason as Azul. As for the druid levels well, Jade clearly loves nature given how he started the Mountain Lovers Club and all, wildshape is a good way for him to turn back into his true form, and well, Circle of Spores specifically is a creepy mushroom themed subclass which just fits way too well.

Floyd: Triton, 2 Land Druid 13 Hexblade Warlock

Despite how long this one took me to figure out this one's pretty simple. Druid for wildshape though unlike Jade Floyd isn't sticking around nearly as long, and Hexblade cause well, I wasn't actively writing down spell lists but I was keeping them in mind and out of all the classes that had the spells I wanted for him (shield and counterspell to try recreate 'Bind the Heart') warlock was the only one that gave any kind of melee game, plus idk Floyd does seem like the type to find a cursed sword and keep it as a pet. Also,I'm not going into abilities but he also absolutely gets the grappler feat cause boy has gotta squeeze.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Kalim: High Elf, 12 Divine Soul Sorcerer 3 Creation Bard

After the fishies gave me a lot of trouble we're back to simple thank god. Kalim does scream sorcerer to me due to the 'being born with more magic without having to work as hard for it' thing (I mean this with love I love my sunshine boy) and I went with Divine Soul to kinda reference Kalim being one of only three students at NRC to use light magic plus given all the assassination attempts the various healing spells it comes with probably come in handy (also sorcerer's in general are good with con saves which is what you need to beat poison). The bard levels are pretty much just cause he likes performing and making people smile, subclass doesn't matter too much, and lastly high elves are like the typical high magic rich people race which I think is a good fit.

Jamil: Yuan-ti, 4 Assassin Rogue 11 Enchantment Wizard

Time for my babygirl everyone- My bias aside this one was fun and thankfully pretty simple. I went with Yuan-ti cause that's the snake race and I couldn't help myself (also it has advantage on poison saves so extra fitting), Assassin Rogue cause rogue is generally a good class for getting through social interactions, notably with deception which is fitting, plus I have a sinking feeling Jamil at least knows how to kill if not has already done so. And finally, enchantment wizard cause that's where all the mind control spells are, notably level 11 is when you get mass suggestion which is basically what Jamil did at the end of book 4.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Vil: Human, 10 Alchemist Artificer 5 Glamour Bard

I know I could've been more creative with the species choice here but Vil was one of the first I worked on and I wasn't going full hog wild yet- That aside, this one was surprisingly simple, Vil is the best potion maker out of the dorm specifically dedicated to that so the subclass that's all about making potions was just way too fitting, and glamour bard because Vil is absolutely a bard and I tend to associate this one with being the most bright and showy which is a public image I think Vil would like.

Rook: Wood Elf, 12 Fey Wanderer Ranger 3 Eloquence Bard

A rare case where I knew the class right away but the subclasses were hard to nail down. I know hunter ranger seems like the obvious one but tbh I'm not crazy on it and the 2014 version especially is kinda boring so I looked at the others and I think Fey Wanderer fits Rook a bit better cause of his love of beauty and all Fey being pretty in their own weird little way, plus it's more light themed and since he's one of the light magic students I wanted to lean into that. Meanwhile I think the bard stuff he picked up from Vil and I went eloquence cause that one's all about the fancy words which Rook is full of. As for the species, I have no deeper reason other than Wood Elf feeling right admittedly-

Epel: Halfling, 3 Wild Magic Barbarian 12 Swords Bard

Sorry Epel, I love you but in my mind you're a tiny boy holding a comically large axe- As for why I didn't push that gag further, well that's mainly cause I wanted to replicate UM when I can, and for Epel the closest I could get with my level cap+multiclass rules was Wall of Force so he had to go caster, and since I realised the rest of Pomfiore were at least part bard I decided Epel can join in on the 'fun'. Though I did do him the mercy of picking College of Swords cause Vil can force this angry boi to play music and charm people but he's gonna do it in the most violent way possible-

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Idia: Fire Genasi, 10 Battlesmith Artificer 5 Shadow Sorcerer

This was easier than I was expecting ngl. Tldr, Fire Genasi was the closest I could get to... whatever is going on with his biology, Artificer is the resident builder class so it's a good fit and battlesmith in particular is all about making weapons which is kind of what Idia did with Ortho, and Shadow Sorcerer cause his weird blood basically mandated some sorcerer levels and shadow is all about death which fits Idia's deal pretty well.

Ortho: Warforged, 8 PSI Fighter 7 Shadow Sorcerer:

And in complete contrast to his brother, Ortho is probably tied with Trey for the character I had the hardest time with but hopefully this'll do. Warforged is the resident robot race so that was a shoe in, I just kinda assume Idia used some of his magic to create Ortho hence the sorcerer levels plus spells like magic missile is the closest I can get to his laser beams, and fighter cause it's the generically good combat class, again subclass is debatable. I tried but I have no idea what I was doing for this one tbh-

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Malleus: Fairy, 12 Draconic Sorcerer 5 Dreams Druid

Okay, I know Dragonborn is the obvious species here but man is literally the prince of the Fae and there's plenty of spells to transform into dragons so screw it Malleus is a fairy. Other than that it's pretty straight forward, Draconic Sorcerer cause no duh, and Dreams Druid cause A, Fae prince aka tied to nature and B, after book 7 I don't think I need to explain why Malleus having a sleep themes class is fitting.

Silver: Human, 13 Twilight Cleric 2 Dreams Druid

Okay, hear me out with the class here, namely cleric cause I don't think I have to explain Dreams Druid here either. Tldr, I wanted Silver to have plane shift cause that was the closest thing I could find to his UM. Unfortunately it's a high level spell so I can't properly fit in a martial class while keeping to my level limit. Fortunately cleric is one of the classes that has Plane Shift and it's good with melee weapons as well as armour, plus it's all about holy aka light magic so it's honestly kind of perfect. Also I went Twilight Domain cause Lilia found him at night and it's a nice way of showing how despite where he was from Silver true place is with the Fae rather than his birth family.

Lilia: Dhampir, 5 Eldritch Knight Fighter 15 Bladesinger Wizard

Okay I know I should've made Lilia a fairy along with Malleus but we all joke that Lilia's a vampire so when I remembered Dhampir was an option I couldn't resist. That aside everything else is fairly simple, a melee fighter with spell access in Eldritch Knight and a caster that prefers to fight at melee in Bladesinger, perfect for a former war general, and this way most of his actual spells can go to fun utility options, as well as more... questionable spells like ones to 'help' with his cooking.

Sebek: Lizardfolk, 10 Ancients Paladin 5 Storm Sorcerer

Again, there isn't a half fairy option so I had to get creative, but instead of just going half elf again I decided to do a silly and lean into the crocodile jokes. As for the classes, Storm Sorcery was mainly for the lightning spell access, and paladin was just too good of a fit for Sebek. I was tempted to go Crown due to his loyalty to Malleus but I decided on Ancients due to his pride in his Fae side but this one is pretty debatable. Though a bonus for paladins in general is Aura of Protection which provides allies advantage against fear.... the situation was more despair instead of fear but it still works pretty well for a certain moment in book 7

If you made it this far, thank you for indulging my bullshit

[roseapov]

3 Nights of the 1st January

Contains spoilers to the Book 7 TWST Tw: War, injury, blood, poison, death, swears Angst (I hope to make you cry)2k+ words Masterlist / 2024 BDAY Masterlist Lilia's 2024 Birthday Special

The cold night air whistled in his pointy ears, as a man run through the woods after being spotted by his enemies. The fae tasked with spying on the Silver Owl's, failed his mission due to an injury sustained earlier, and now he paid the price of ignoring it, by being chased by humans in the iron armors.

'Ugh! Shit..!' Were the words the running figure had spoken, when more of his injuries opened up during the frantic run. In his current state, he wouldn't stand a chance in the fight against them all, but as he was the General, and a very stubborn General in fact, no one had the right to stop him.

The shouts of the human soldiers echoed through the forest, making the male stumble a little, the situations had been really bad. Now that they had spotted him, they will change their camp location, something he couldn't afford to let them do. It was a perfect opportunity to listen in on the enemy and sabotage their plans, but he fucked it up.

He cursed himself in his thoughts, forcing himself to run faster. His beautiful long black hair with red streaks flowed in the wind, moving franctically during the sharp turns and unexpected movementstogether with their owner. The moon shining down on his mask and form, making him look ethereal and glowy, beffiting a nocturnal fae such as himself, wasn't helping his situation at all.

As he made another sharp turn, thinking he lost the ones chasing him, he leaned on to a tree trunk, breathing heavily immiediately looking back only to let out a scream of pain. While he was distracted with looking for everyone, one of the iron archers shoot him in his right calf with an arrow, that he was sure was poisoned.

Lilia cursed outloud, turning towards the shooter and beheading him with one smooth motion of his weapon, sucking his breath in painfully, with the arrow still in his flesh.

Instead of leaning on a tree again, he chose to climb one instead, to not repeat his mistakes, and send a few of his bats to call one of his subornites, namely Baul Zigvolt, to avoid making from the situation more of a big deal than it already is, and getting away quietly, undetected.

Sitting on a big branch of an old oak, he caught the arrow close to the arrowhead and pulled it out in one fast montion, biting his other hand and screaming in his head, while the enemy soldiers were running underneath the branch he sitted on.

'This damned poison' He thought as he started feeling faint, holding himself onto the bleeding place, directing his eyes to the stars and looking at them emptily through the mask.

The wind suddenly started to blow, making a gentle breeze that started moving his hair a little, as he taken off his mask and hood, enjoying it dearly. At least, as much as a man in a chase can enojoy things like this, with little tear droplets wetting his eyelashes.

He went through the most chellenging and hard situations in life, and ended up as a War General. His life always has been a complicated mess.

He was a worthless orphan, not someone worthy of stading beside the Crowned Princess, not someone worthy of being a General. How old is he? When was he born, and if he knew, would he celebrate? Probably no. Who were his parents? Did they abandoned him? Or did something happened to them instead?

These were the thoughts that started to invade his head, as his armor started to weigh on him. His arms started getting weaker and weaker, his eyes, that were staring emptily at the sky, started to feel unbearable heavy, and he slowly too, started to lose conciousnes. The only thing he managed to hear was a worried scream of his name.. Looks like the rescue has finally came...

And that's how, the night of the 1st January passed for Lilia Vanrouge, the same as many future ones to come...

( * Hundreds of years later * )

'Happy Birthday Lilia!' - Voices of people flooded his senses when he entered the Diasomnia lounge, one of the dorms in the college he studied in.

'Huh? It's my birthday today..? I forgot' Thought the short fae, he completely forgot, but nevertheless welcomed this nice surprise, he was even impressed, that his children had managed to organise all of this without raising his suspicions.

'It's my birthday today? I forgot, and you haven't even reminded me? '- He said as looked at his familiars and then chuckled happily - 'I raised you good, you managed to surprise me!'

His chuckles turned into a full out laugh, he was really happy. For many reasons, Malleus - had hatched and he is able to be with him, Silver - his son with a way shorther lifespan than his - is alive, Sebek - his students is still full of energy and determination to better himself, still being very liable to fall for his jokes.

'What a great gift I received to be able to spend this year with you three', Lilia thought to himself, with melancholy in his eyes. A second after that, the male has put on his big smile once again, and started teasing people he considered his family with a joyous laughter and stars in his eyes.

Everyone in the Diasomnia played board games and he managed to tell lots of stories from his youth, later on as the man of the hour he got a banned from the kitchen because as Malleus said, he shouldn't lift a finger with his senile age, and saving everyone from eating deathly dishes, although the last part was not mentioned out loud.

Soon after that, his friends from other dorms joined in the partying and burried him under a huge pile of presents, especially Kalim. Lilia only smiled and laughed at that, he would surely have lots of fun opening them all later, he really couldn't wait.

A cake, cookies of all sorts, a tomato juice and other kinds of snacks got placed on the table with Malleus's magic as he also redistributed one glass of the juice to every guest, while Silver and Sebek had decorated the whole Diasomnia, and not just the venue, in a birthday party style.

The atmosphere had been delightful and full of laughter, up till late hours of the night. Of course, Lilia wouldn't be himself if he hadn't played a few jokes at the guests and his birthday interviewer, making everyone laugh at them, giving him a free hand in doing whatever he liked.

When the hour got closer to midnight, the rest of theremaining guests had come back to their own dorms, wishing their well wishes to the fae again. The lounge quickly became empty, with only 4 people being left in it, including himself.

Can I ask for one last thing? - Lilia's deep voice cut through the comfortable silence, shocking the boys, who thought he wouldn't speak at all. But even after the shock, their response was immediate and affiramtive, just as he expected.

At that the short male turned to look at his closed ones faces, and with a serene smile asked for a dance. His bats with the help of his magic started playing the instruments in the rhythm of a song all of them knew perfectly well, a classic Briar Valley lullababy.

The four of them quickly took off to dance, and just after the first few verses, changing their dancing partner so that everyone could dance with eachother, and then again, and again.

Dancing up until midnight and way longer into the night, with only themselves and Lilia's bats as witnesses to their antics, and serene moment, filled with true love they had for eachother in the air. 

This was a delightful January 1st, one that he'll be sure to treasure for as long as he can remember.

( * Several years later * )

In the old hut in the woods, a man sat in his rocking chairoutside on the porch, an Ex-War General and the caretaker of the Fae King, Malleus Draconia. The fae who even after the demanded respect for him by their new King, others still were treating like an outcast and so, he didn't protest, living in the forest, just like an outcast, they said he were.

Was it wrong that he never fought for more time spend being closer with his family..? He shouldn't think like that, he got to spend plenty of time with his boys already, no? He shouldn't be too greedy about their presence and time, they all had their own lives outside of him.

All of the them being able to be together at the NRC, was the biggest gift and fortune, he could've ever imagined, making beautiful memories. Just like his birthday several years ago, when he and his boys danced together until the late night. Can he complain at such beautiful memories? Does he have the right to ever ask them to spend more time with him? To not only think about the memories, but to make new ones?

He won't know, not anymore. There's too little time left, feeling his soul trying to leave his body, he still tries to fight back, 'stars please, give me more time'. He won't give up, not until he'll be able to see them, one more time, just a glimpse is enough.

Even after living so far off from the capital, he still can see the glipses of colored lights looming above the tree crowns, and faintly hear their bangs. He sighed and smiled to himself, looking up into the sky, but that smile haven't lasted long, dimnishing a second later with a pain in his right calf.

What should he say to everyone? That he feels like death is just around the corner? Should he even say anything and destroy their moods with panic? Should he ruin Malleus's first new year celebration as a King? No, no he shouldn't... He don't want to ruin their fun...

Soon after his heavy thoughts, the only joys left in his life, came to see him and sat next to him quietly, not disrupting his rest and looking up at the same scenery, just as he did a while before. 

When he opened his mouth to say his final goodbyes, no sound left him and thus he knew, his time has come. He looked up at the stars one last time, with a last thought 'Please take care of them for me', to who? He's not sure...

'Happy Birthday', one whispered.. or said..? Lilia's not sure anymore, as his eyes had started coming to a close, he felt really happy that he could spend his last moments together with his family, when all of them had been happy around him, without any worries at all...

After his soul departed from his body for good, he took one last look at his now-dead body, and saw a truly heartbreaking scene. Malleus, Silver and Sebek panicking. With his body in Sebek's arms who was crying the whole river out, Silver screaming and also crying, trying to somehow wake him up, Malleus looking shocked, panicked even, trying every known to him spell, but noone seemed to be working.

In the corner he barely saw Baul, his comrade in the war-times, running frantically towards the source of the panic, not wanting to believe in what he thought was happening. So Baul it is, huh? 'Please, protect them well then' his thoughts begged the man before him, the one that couldn't hear or see him anymore.

Lilia's soul finally let out lots of terrible cries and screams at their reactions, breaking down, after holding it in when he was alive, all emotions returning to surface. He didn't wanted to leave them, he truly didn't! If he could, he would.. he would.. Do anything to spend more time with them together..! He never wanted to leave...

And then, he saw their faces. Meleanor and Levan waiting for him togehter with open arms and tears in their own eyes.. His pupils dilated, breath quickened and he threw himself into a run, jumping into their arms, sobbing and crying with all his might, being afraid to let go, not being able to let go, with his voice breaking down several times.

The three of them then dissapeared together high into the stars, without looking back, waiting for others to join them later in the future.

And thus, at the night of the 1st January, Lilia Vanrouge, joined the stars, reunited with his dear companions, and started looking after the young ones from above, hoping that Baul will be able to do what he wasn't able to. Be with his loved ones for just a bit longer, being able to protect them.

I hope I made you cry, or at least made you have tears in your eyes/being sad. (If I did, pls tell me, I wanna know if I did a good job), Have a good day with Lilia in the stars!

[natsukishinomiyaswife]

Ryuumi Lore

Some lore about Ryuumi, now that I'm actually talking about him lol ♡ Will contain spoilers for Lydia's backstory! Warning: character death, animal death, mentions of remains/funeral proceedings

♡ Ryuumi is originally from Twisted Wonderland, and ended up in Lydia's world (our world) by accident (an accident HE caused...). He was supposed to attend Night Raven College before this incident happened, and would have been placed into [REDACTED].

♡ He is twisted from the clock from the Haunted Mansion (the 13 hour clock, to be more specific) and he is a fae (Specifically a komodo dragon fae, though he believes he is only half fae, which isn't the case)

♡ He was adopted and raised by humans, with his parents owning an antique shop. He doesn't like the fact he's a fae, and considers himself human (which leads to arguments/fights if someone disagrees with him)

♡ He is a delinquent, and while his vision is bad, he refuses to wear his glasses (since they make him look less cool/intimidating lol ♡)

♡ Being in a strange new world with no magic (or proof of existence), Ryuumi lived on the streets, and was homeless until he met Lydia. He was surprised to find she lived alone, just her and her cat in an empty house. (Her parents passed years ago, and she got a cat so the loneliness wouldn't be as stifling)

♡ Since he doesn't know when or even if he'll return to Twisted Wonderland, he decides to enroll in the school Lydia goes to, and makes a life for himself in her world. Though secretly he's gathering ingredients in the hopes he can create a potion that can bring him home (Lydia doesn't know this, or that he's from another world)

♡ After being in Lydia's world for almost a year, he finally thinks he made a potion that can send him home, though the thought left him conflicted. While he missed Twisted Wonderland and his magic (and his family, though he wouldn't admit it), he had gotten used to his life here, and was reluctant to leave Lydia behind. He planned on meeting her at the vet's office once her cat's appointment was done, wanting to finally tell her the truth before he left.

♡ He was across the street when Lydia left the vet's office, noticing him and waving as she held onto her cat's carrier. The road was busy that day, cars racing by as Ryuumi waited to cross. It felt as if time slowed as her cat suddenly got out of it's carrier, running into the road to get to Ryuumi. Lydia panics as she chases after her cat, yelling out it's name. Ryuumi started running towards her as well, watching as a truck came closer to where she was. Right as she was about to grab her cat, Ryuumi screams her name, throwing something at her right as the truck hits them. He watches with horror as her and her cat's bodies go limp, like a scene from a movie. The blood, the destruction... While she may no longer have this world, at least she has Twisted Wonderland. That's what he keeps telling himself at least, praying his potion had worked.

♡ But in the back of his mind he knew, that couldn't be the case. There's no way she could be in Twisted Wonderland, not when her body is here, limp and cold and lifeless. The potion was supposed to open a portal, after all, and she was still physically there. Both her and her cat. And it wasn't like he could use his unique magic here... right? ... Right?

♡ While Lydia wakes to a runway filled with bright lights and flowers in Twisted Wonderland, Ryuumi is back in her world planning a funeral. After a few days he returns home with her remains in an urn, the remains of her beloved pet right beside it in a smaller box.

♡ He spent another year in Lydia's world before finally going back to Twisted Wonderland, dealing with the grief and guilt of her (and her cat's) sudden death. He was shocked to discover she was actually there, alive and well with her cat by her side.

♡ ...But things aren't always what they seem, are they? He can hear it... the ticking... the hands on the clock moving backwards behind her... his unique magic

She's here, right? That's what counts, he keeps telling himself, and at least she's corporeal...

Not many ghosts get that luxury.

Tagging some moots who were interested: @viperbunnies, @part-sadist

[raven-at-the-writing-desk]

I just read through the Wish Upon A Star event for the first time and it's a nice heartfelt story! But hoo BOY do some things about this event feel unexpectedly heavier now with the context of Book 6 and what's currently out for Book 7, particularly with the Diasomnia boys ...

Wish Upon a Star was really nice for the Shroud brothers' story in hindsight! I wouldn't say the event has anything "essential" (you can still understand book 6 without seeing any of Wish Upon a Star), but it definitely adds extra context (like sprinkles on top of an ice-cream sundae!) and some vague foreshadowing to the upcoming main story happenings. (It helped a lot that both brothers were featured cards for this event; they could share the spotlight!) We learn some new information that is fundamentally rooted in what we already know of the Shroud brothers (ie Idia is into video games, Ortho is supportive of his brother) and how it all plays together in a grander narrative. Star Rogue was actually first introduced in this event as something important to Idia and Ortho's childhoods, which later becomes a recurring motif in book 6. The book even closes on Idia playing it with all of his new NRC friends (?). The legend of the Starsending itself, of course, refers to the story of Pinocchio, where a puppet turned into a real boy--a theme which eventually carries over to Ortho, the robot that gains humanity. Additionally, we get a more in-depth exploration of Ortho and Idia's relationship in Wish Upon a Star. We see that Ortho, despite being a robot who would easily be able to look up anything he doesn't understand, still has a child-like wonder about wishes coming true and even dedicates his own wish to hoping that his older brother's wish comes true. It's Idia who expresses a deep cynicism for the Starsending and acts like a buzzkill (pointing out that the stars most likely react to people's body temperature rather than light up in response to being whispered a wish). This reflects their behavior in book 6 too: Idia is the one who has given up hope, and Ortho is the one who seeks to help his brother's dreams come true.

I guess something similar applies for the Diasomnia boys? 🤔 Although to be fair, this event came out in summer of 2020 (when the game itself first launched in March 2020), so we didn't know a ton about the Diasomnia boys back then. A lot of what they said for their wishes would have easily been dismissed as just normal characterization, but it definitely comes off as more ominous knowing what we now know of book 7:

Sebek’s wish: “I wish for the whole world to kneel before our king.” WELL. You definitely got that wish granted, Sebek 😭 cuz all of Twisted Wonderland is about to kneel over in a deep sleep once Malleus’s UM spreads far enough… Sebek is pretty much always going on about how powerful Malleus is, but in book 7 it’s not so fun having to deal with that magic now turned against us and set on consuming the world.

Silver’s wish: “I wish… for my father to have a long life.” When we first heard of this, the assumption was that Lilia would outlive Silver?? Especially with how spry Lilia is portrayed to be… BUT THEN IT TURNS OUT 700 YEAR OLD LILIA’S MAGIC IS ON THE DECLINE AND HE WANTS TO GO DIE ALONE IN A FOREIGN LAND 😩 Silver also mentions during his wish segment that he owes a lot to his father and isn’t close to repaying him for everything he has done. This is a sentiment Silver shares again in book 7… in which he then proceeds to break down and cry in front of Malleus about those insecurities 😭

Lilia’s wish: “My wish is… for humans, fae, and all other species to live in harmony.” This one hits super different because right now we’re witnessing Lilia’s past self as a general actively fighting against humans and being suspicious of them. His present self is much more peace and harmony loving, even instilling in Silver a respect for all creatures and lecturing Malleus and Sebek for their sometimes ignorant behavior towards other races. He acknowledges the challenges that come with bringing together those from all walks of life, but he’s also the first to preach about how the importance of it. People may be weak alone, but they can come together like the threads on a spindle to become something stronger together. This is a testament to how much Lilia’s feelings and him as an individual have evolved over time. What’s even sadder is that when you read Lilia’s words, it definitely sounds like he’s reflecting on his unsavory past, and wishing for a better world for the future: “You've learned about […] all the countless tales of our failure to compromise, and the resulting conflicts? I have no desire to see such history repeated.” So he makes the same wish every year…

Malleus’s wish: “I wish for Roaring Drago (Gao-Gao Dragon-kun) to make a friend.” Gao-Gao makes his first appearance in Malleus’s Labwear vignettes, but becomes a more integral part of Malleus’s story in other materials, then culminates as a motif in book 7. The importance of this virtual pet cannot be understated in regards to its connection with Malleus’s understanding of human lives and change. Prior to book 7, we see Gao-Gao as something “like Malleus”—it’s alone, a dragon hatched from an egg. (One can say that wishing for Gao-Gao to have friends is a metaphor for how Malleus himself wants friends.) During book 7, the perception of Gao-Gao changes; now it is likened to Malleus’s loved ones. He fears them leaving, just like Gao-Gao does when he’s all grown up—and so Malleus justifies his extreme actions with the excuse of, “I want them to live a happy fantasy forever and ever, just as though Gao-Gao were with me for all of time”. It’s how Malleus rationalizes his actions and comes to understand others. What makes Gao-Gao and even more prominent symbol in book 7 is its ties with Lilia; as Malleus notes in his Starsending segment, Gao-Gao was a gift from Lilia’s travels… and Gao-Gao set to leave once it has fully matured, so, too, comes the painful reminder that Lilia set to leave soon. It puts more pressure on Malleus to act, to come up with some kind of solution for a “happily ever after”. It’s his way of keeping his friends with him… whether they want it or not.

[1800naveen]

If the IC were real, they'd either be on the US/Israel's side or they're the "Both sides are wrong" kind of people.

Rhys legit believes both sides were wrong when it came to fae enslaving humans and humans resisting. He and his other cult members painted Jurian as the villain for killing off a slaver owner, as bad as amarantha, to free his people. Who's to say he wouldn't be the same in reality?

They could also be on the right side but the "I can't give my coffee up" & "I need a new phone" kind (Mor and Amren especially give me that vibe). They would help Palestine & Congo as much as they help Illyria & Court of Nightmares.

Maybe it's sh*tty of me to involve real life genocides, but your post mentioning that acotar stans would support the IC committing genocide made me realize that the IC would legit support one.

I'm playing with fire here but what's true is true.

YOU SPOKE NOTHING BUT FACTS, MY FRIEND!! WE ALWAYS PLAY WITH FIRE AROUND HERE!!

How they treat the Illyrians and/or how they treated the humans all those years ago is similar to how Israelis treat the Palestinians. What makes things worse is that the symbol of the night court is the mountains with the three stars and what's underneath the mountains are the Hewn City citizens which is just awful.

The night court/Velaris is built on the oppression of HC citizens just like how Israel is built on the true land of the Palestinians. They cornered them or rather, forced them into this small section of the court/state.

Saying that a group of people are in the wrong for fighting against their oppressors is such a disgusting thing to say. It's like those bigots that say black people (either in history or in this time) are wrong for defending their homes/rights as a person. I've seen people get mad at Haitians for the revolution. The Haitian revolution where enslaved black people who successfully fought and overthrew the French. And some people got mad at that??

It's not shitty of you at all, I be doing stuff like that when it comes to sjm.

Anyways, the inner circle would support one. Cassian murdered an entire village and Rhysand let Amarantha slaughter half of Hewn City citizens and Illyrians. Amren killed hundreds and possibly thousands when she was back in her world and Rhysand gave Mor permission to kill everyone in Hewn City if she liked...

So in this situation, it would be:

Velaris - US/Israel

Illyrians/Humans - Palestine

Hewn City - Congo

[throneofsapphics]

what do you think about slightly dark poly!rowaelin with dark reader but resder hides it and acts innocent, and one day she gets caught being crazy. like maybe she fights with someone and thinks no one will see her enjoying it. rowaelin catches her and they sooo approve. Potential smut👀👀

the thrill of it 

poly!Rowaelin x reader. 

Summary: Y/n has a secret, but she can’t keep it forever.

Word Count: ~1.8k

Warnings: Violence, mentions of blood, suggestiveness, slightly dark, smut, overstimulation, light bondage, light d/s. 

A/N: nsfw minors dni please! I loved this request thank you, also not proofread super well

She showed them exactly what she wanted them to see. Sure, they know she can protect herself, but that she’s a pacifist, won’t even kill a bug. Any yes, that really was her the majority of the time. Y/n does like quiet afternoons reading, walks in the gardens, convincing the cooks to let her bake cookies or sweets to surprise Aelin with. 

Y/n found a certain thrill in violence. There wasn’t a fear they’d hate her if they found out, but she liked having a secret, something she could separate from her life at the castle. 

Letting her aggression out in a legal, albeit brutal manner ended up as the best solution for her. The safest one. Maybe not all of it was ethical, but it was safer, nobody died during the fights, and there were rules. The biggest one being no weapons beyond their own body. The clubs were established for a reason, and she wasn’t banned from them. 

She took painstaking efforts to make sure none of the regular patrols would recognize her. As soon as they appeared, she drifted into the shadows and streets. Or, if there’s advance warning, she wouldn't show at all. 

Rowan and Aelin knew she spent a night with her friends once in a while, maybe a few times a month, and always comes back hungover as hell. But, she never told them exactly what happens on those nights out. And, her best friend, Ella, is skilled in healing magic, that takes care of any ‘evidence.’ 

-

Aedion went scouting, Partially to see which of his soldiers might be participating, and part to register potential threats. Normally he wouldn’t go alone, but rumors spread that certain notable participants would slip away whenever any ‘scouts’ would come by. The club wasn’t illegal. As far as he knows, everything is above board. With an influx of females, males, men, and women - all warriors or soldiers in their own right, inhabiting Orynth, it’s a safer way to let aggression and bloodlust out. Nothing like the pits or vaults of Rifthold. It was even clean. He slipped in right in the middle of a fight, the first of the night. 

He would know that scent anywhere. Y/n was away from the castle tonight, and here of all gods-damned places. But where? 

It took all of his restraint to stay exactly where he was when he tracked the scent. Without his Fae senses, he wouldn’t have recognized her, but there she was. Fighting. No weapons, only fists and against a rather large and vicious looking male. Not only fighting, but toying with him. 

“End it!” Someone yelled. A friend of y/n’s, Ella, she was easily recognizable. He stayed enough to watch her beat him to a pulp, laughing as the man took the hand she offered, both them with smiles on their faces. His a bit bloody and missing a tooth. 

“I’ll get you one of these days,” He muttered and she grinned. 

“Maybe next time.” She’s a rutting regular. And a far better of a fighter than he knew, and likely her mates knew. Forget scouting, he was going back to Aelin and Rowan. Now. 

-

They knew she was there, or hopefully would still be. Hopefully she hadn’t caught Aedion’s scent and left. He - both of them wanted to catch her there. That way she wouldn’t be able to deny a damned thing. Aelin already told him they couldn’t storm in there and drag her out. Although they both were very tempted to. Even though Aedion told them she downed a man three times her size with ease, he wouldn’t believe it unless he saw it with his own eyes. 

Aelin set two rules. One, not revealing themselves. Two, not dragging her out. 

They slunk inside, sticking to the shadows, Rowan’s wind hiding their scents from the Fae present. Some others wore hoods as well, even a few had masks on. But, the place was clean and the laughs were in good nature, not malicious. 

His sweet, kind-hearted female who refused to kill a bug - somewhere like this. Those old senses flared, from when they’d first set their eyes on her. Something lingering underneath. He thought she’d healed it, let it drift away, but maybe she hid it. Rowan knows he should be angry, and he is, but a bit of excitement drifted in as well. 

He immediately surveyed the room, to find a small, but subtle confrontation happening in the corner. A small voice in his head told him, y/n would be there, so he nudged Aelin, jerking his head towards the area. 

One man was tossed out of the ring, pushed towards an exit, a burly man nodded subtly to a small female figure leaning against the wall. Y/n, she could recognize her anywhere, fisted the mans tunic and dragged him out a side door. 

Aelin and Rowan didn’t have to look at each other to know they’d be following. She expected maybe she’d toss the man on his ass, but instead they found her pinning him into the ground, a sharp blade to his neck, one knee digging into his chest, and her boot crushing his right hand. Aelin could feel the satisfaction rolling from her. She was enjoying this. The man let out small whimpers, but didn’t dare trying to move. 

-

She was well aware of who stood in the shadows, but couldn’t ‘break character,’ now. Not really a character, more another part of herself. A part she can't hide anymore. “Try that again and I’ll cut your balls off, and shove them down your throat,” she hissed. She dug her boot into his wrist, lifting the knife slightly, enough for him to nod, his eyes were filled with fear. She stepped away and he scrambled - sprinting out of the alley. 

-

“Can you read?” She tilted her head, the knife shifted enough for him to nod. “Then you know the rules.” 

“I wasn’t going to-” his voice was hoarse, cut off by a blade pressing back down. 

“Try that again and I’ll cut your balls off and shove them down your throat.” 

Y/n took a careful step back, and the man bolted. Her entire view of their mate changed in the last ten minutes, and Aelin didn’t mind at all. 

“Not afraid of scaring off the business/” Rowan drawled as the man scattered. 

“He’ll be back, his ego is bruised.” She still didn’t look at them, her eyes trained on where the man disappeared. 

“And if he pulls that again?” 

Y/n slowly turned, a half smile on her face. “I don’t make idle threats.” She had enforced one of those threats before, and enjoyed it.

“You’ve been keeping secrets,” Aelin purred, stalking towards her with Rowan matching her steps. 

“You never asked,” y/n’s voice was still laced with honey, a sweetness and honestly that felt authentic. Lying by omission. 

“You fake a hangover well.” Rowan commented, his face still a stony mask. 

Her eyes widened before she chuckled, “those are very real.” 

“Are you paid for this?” Rowan crossed his arms. 

“All volunteer.” Aelin couldn’t decide if she wanted to throttle her or kiss her. Or fuck her till she forgot her name. She asked Rowan, directly into his mind. 

“Why not all three?”

He threw her over his shoulder, stalking out of the alley and Aelin followed him with a grin. It would be a long night. 

-

Y/n saw the looks on their faces, and noticed the shifts in her scent. A bit of anger, but excitement and arousal.

Rowan didn’t let her walk, as much as she banged her hands on his back and called him a variety of creative names. He didn’t put her down until they reached their room. 

-

“You’re not finished yet, are you darling?” Aelin purred, as she struggled against the binds tying her arms to the headboard. She’d lost track of the amount of times she finished. Aelin was relentless, her hands pushed her knees apart. Again, spreading her wide open. 

“I can’t,” she protested, “too much, it’s too much.” 

“You can give her another.” Rowan’s hand twined in the back of her hair, arching y/n’s neck backwards to graze his canines along the column of her throat. She should be terrified that he could rip her throat out with one movement, but it excited her instead. The delicious combination of fear and arousal flooded through her, sending heat right to her core. Again. He moves away, but keeps a firm grip on her hair, forcing her to look down towards Aelin

She runs two fingers along her core and she jolt, letting out a small whimper. It’s burning. 

“Please,” she started begging, “please, please,” and this time she’s not sure what she’s begging for. 

Aelin held the fingers up, like a prize. Y/n’s slick arousal coated them. “Look how wet she is,” she smirked, looking at Rowan. 

“Little dove, are you lying to us? Again.” Rowan’s canines nip at her ear.  

Her head shook rapidly

“Really?” Her head tilts, “I thought you said it was too much.” Rowan’s deft fingers undo the ropes holding her hostage, and she sighed in relief, but that was short lived. Rowan slid behind her, using his knees to spread her legs back apart, before one arm pulled her back flush to his chest. Another tight hold she can’t escape, and she didn’t want to. Not really, even with her body on fire, every inch overstimulated 

There’s no warning as his thumb presses down against her clit, sending her screaming, her head falling back against his shoulder. Aelin’s fingers slam back inside her, curling to hit that perfect spot, sliding back and forth across it. Her tongue draws across one nipple, circling it before tugging it with her teeth. Biting just enough to draw a whimper from her, turning into a moan, maybe a scream, or maybe their names as she adds another finger, pounding into her. Is it two? Three? She can’t tell as another orgasm wrecks through her body, walls clenching around her fingers, Rowan grunted as her body rubs against him, his hard length pressing into her back. 

“Good girl,” Aelin whispers against her skin, kissing her way up y/n;s chest, before capturing her lips. The soft kisses left her dizzy as her fingers gently stroked her through her orgasm. Y/n didn’t notice Rowan had moved his hand away, now roughly gripping one of her breasts, twisting her nipple between his two fingers. The contrast between each of their touches left her reeling. She writhes against him, tears starting to stream down her face. Aelin only wipes them away, arousal still filling her scent. 

“Now,” Aelin cooes and pulled her hand away. “It’s time to put that pretty mouth to use.” 

Y/n knew she was in for a long night.