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moonlitstoriess · 11 months ago

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Across the Universe-ch.11 (Fenrys x Reader)

Summary: Y/n has everything she needs in life. A family, friends, a safe place she calls home and most importantly a male whom she loves. What happens when it all changes when Y/n finds out about the betrayal of her lover and her so called family? Well, ending up in Terrasen and in queen Aelin's court was not what she expected but what she will need to start her new journey full of surprises.

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Y/n stirred awake slowly, feeling the warmth of a late afternoon filtering through the curtains. For a moment, she was disoriented, unsure of where she was. Then the events of the previous couple of days flooded back: the battle in the woods, Fenrys being injured, the ugly creature, and their vulnerable moment together in her room.

She shifted slightly and felt the weight of Fenrys' arm draped over her waist. He was still asleep, his breathing steady and deep. The scratches on his body seemed less angry in the soft morning light. Y/n gently turned her head to look at him, taking in the lines of his face, the way his brows softened in sleep, and the slight crease of pain that lingered on his features.

With a sigh, she realized how peaceful and content she felt in this moment, lying close to him. Despite the turmoil around them, there was a sense of serenity that she hadn't felt in a long time. Fenrys had always been strong, fierce, and protective, but seeing him vulnerable like this, trusting her enough to let his guard down, touched something deep within her.

Carefully, so as not to disturb him, y/n shifted closer, her head resting against his chest where she could hear the steady rhythm of his heartbeat. His arm tightened around her instinctively, pulling her closer in response. She felt safe, cherished even, in this simple gesture.

As they lay there intertwined, the world outside seemed to fade away. Y/n knew they couldn't stay like this forever, that reality would soon come crashing back in. But for now, in the quiet intimacy of the morning, they found solace in each other's presence.

Eventually, Fenrys stirred awake, blinking his eyes open slowly. When he saw her looking at him, a soft smile spread across his face. "Good morning," he murmured, his voice rough with sleep but filled with warmth.

"Morning," y/n replied softly, returning his smile. She couldn't help but feel a flutter of happiness in her chest, a sense of gratitude for this moment they shared.

She shifted slightly, stretching out her stiffened limbs. Fenrys remained beside her, his presence a comforting weight against her side. The events of the previous day replayed in her mind like a vivid dream—encountering the Valg-spawned creature, the frantic chase through the woods, and finally, finding solace in each other's embrace.

Fenrys stirred again, his eyes meeting hers with a mix of concern and relief. "How are you feeling?" he asked, his voice still tinged with the remnants of sleep.

Y/n couldn't help but smile faintly at his question. "Better, now that I'm not alone," she replied honestly. Despite the physical and emotional toll of the recent events, being with Fenrys brought her a sense of calm and reassurance she hadn't realized she needed.

He nodded silently, his gaze lingering on her face as if trying to read her thoughts. "I'm sorry," he said softly, his voice tinged with regret.

Her brows furrowed in confusion "What for?"

Fenrys sighed, his expression clouded with a mixture of emotions. "I just wish I could have protected you better," he murmured, his eyes searching hers for understanding.

"You did," y/n insisted earnestly. "You saved me back there, in the woods. If it weren't for you, my throat would have already been ripped out."

He turned his head towards the ceiling and closed his eyes, displaying his thick and tan neck to her, "You don't understand, these creatures....they are just newer forms of the ones that we fought against during the war. The Valgs are clearly creating new ones and this was just a warning to us. You probably never even saw such things in Prythian so now, you are also caught up in all this mess-"

"Fenrys, my world had even worse than whatever you all have here. I am pretty sure these monsters are nothing new to me."

His eyes popped open as he turned to her with a surprised expression "Really?"

Y/n giggled and said, "Yes! I mean, we had the Attor who was this disgusting thing that could fly, Feyre ended up killing it. Then, we had naga and the naga-hound who were slightly similar to what we saw yesterday. We also have Kelpies and Puca. But....worst of all was the Middengard Wyrm. I never saw it in real life but Rhysand did and from what he showed me through his memories, it was horrible. It's like this huge worm, the size of a whole mountain, with sharp and large teeth. Ironically, Feyre also fought against that and guess what? she won!! Everyone except Rhys thought that she would die but, she proved them all wrong."

Fenrys just stared at her with an amused gaze as he said, "Seems like your Feyre is a lucky one if she survived that."

Y/n sighed, her eyes going distant, to her memories with her once high lady "Yes, yes she is. Rhys is lucky to have her as a mate."

She noticed Fenrys tug her hair behind her ear as he whispered "Have you met your mate yet? If not, would you like one?"

At that, her expression turned sour as she pondered over his questions for a minute. She thought that Azriel was her mate. That them being together this long meant that at some point, that bond would snap. That because she loved him endlessly and thought that he felt the same, they were destined to be.

Of course, those thoughts were prior to Azriel ripping her heart out and crushing it in his hands. Now, she despises that word. Her heart has been completely shattered for anyone else. Y/n knows that she isn't destined for a happy end. She never was. That's why she vowed herself to never open up her heart, her soul, to anyone again. So, even if in the slim chance that she did have a mate and he or she ended up falling from the skies right onto her path, even if the Mother herself would tell her that 'this is your mate', y/n would just turn around and walk away.

It seems like she knew her answer.

Y/n's mood changed as she just got into a sitting position and said, "We should get up. They are probably worried about us."

Fenrys shifted to sit up, wincing slightly as he moved. "Y/n-"

Y/n watched him with concern, her hand lingering on his arm. "You should rest," she suggested gently. "Let me get Isolde—"

Fenrys shook his head, interrupting her. "I'm fine," he insisted, though the tightness around his eyes betrayed his words. "Just a few scratches."

Y/n frowned, unconvinced, but she nodded reluctantly. "Alright," she relented, knowing he was as stubborn as she was when it came to injuries.

Just then Eva burst into the room with Manon in tow as she came running at them.

"We heard noises and thought you two were awake!"

Y/n smiled at the younger girl as she just nodded her head and let Manon gently help her get off the bed.

At the noise, Aedion and Lorcan came in also helping Fenrys who was still skeptically glancing at the latter.

Aedion had a smirk on his face as he said out loud while leading Fenrys towards the door with Lorcan, "Seems like you two had quite the nap."

Manon shut him up before y/n could with a "Just take him and leave, blondie."

Everyone but Aedion laughed at the nickname as the males took Fenrys out of the room, y/n casting a final glance at his back before he disappeared.

Manon looked at Eva and said with a soft voice, "Go get the bath ready. She stinks."

The girl just laughed and nodded before going to the washroom.

When y/n looked back at the witch, she smelled....oh Gods "Seven hells, you stink of sex! And you say I stink?"

Manon blushed. She actually blushed as a pinkish tint overtook her pale cheeks.

"Can you blame me? I haven't seen him in.....three months."

Y/n couldn't hide the cheshire grin that was growing by the minute on her face as Manon sat her down on the chair near the vanity, slowly renewing her bandages as she said, "Oh really? How romantic, you two should definetly get married already."

Manon just smirked slightly "We'll see about that. What about you and your mate?"

When she saw y/n's frustrated expression, Manon quickly corrected herself, "I meant, I think he is your mate? I- Aelin told me you had someone like that, apparently he was going crazy over finding you."

Y/n just sadly shook her head, "No, he was my lover but not mate. Found his mate 50 years into our relationship and instead of telling me, cheated on me with her for two years while ignoring me. That caused me to have panick attacks and go back into my old habits which were.....not good so I don't want to talk about it. While this was happening, the rest of the family did nothing. No one gave me a shoulder to cry on or a presence to atleast vent to. They knew of his secret and didn't tell me either."

She saw Manon's expression go from one of concern and confusion to one of fury and ice as she said in a voice so cold, it made y/n shiver "Those bastards. You know, I would gladly go with you to your world just so I can kill them quickly and then slowly torture Azriel before ending him too."

Y/n just smiled while shaking her head.

"I leave for five minutes and come back to see Manon already plotting someones death."

They both turned their heads to see Eva standing in the middle of the room, arms crossed and glancing between them.

Manon's expression turned playful again as she stuck out her tounge to her while y/n gave a lighthearted laugh at that.

Eva just rolled her eyes with a small smile as she helped y/n get up and led her towards the bathroom with the witch.

When the three of them entered the dining room, they were welcomed by loud noises of everyone arguing.

The food lay forgotten as chaos erupted around the dining table. Rowan stood, his hands raised in a placating gesture, attempting to soothe Aelin who was in a heated argument with Dorian. Yrene shook her head in exasperation, trying to mediate between them. Chaol and Lysandra engaged in their own intense debate, their voices rising above the rest. Aedion, seated nearby, simply nodded along with whatever his wife said, wisely staying out of the fray.

Meanwhile, Lorcan seemed oblivious to the commotion, seizing the opportunity to shower his wife with kisses. Fenrys sat apart on a nearby couch, rubbing his temples with a look of frustration etched on his face.

Y/n heard Manon murmur "Grown ups but still act like damn children." before she gently sat y/n down with Eva's help on the couch opposite to Fenrys and went towards the table "We found an open gate!"

Everyone, including Fenrys and y/n, shut up and looked at the witch with absolute shock.

Dorian and Aedion spoke at the same time "What?! You're lying"

Manon just shrugged and went to take her place on the chair, "Yes, I am lying. Thought shouting this out would make you all finally shut up and come back to your senses."

Aelin just sighed while plopping back down on her chair "Manon, tell your little king to stop doubting every step of my plans."

Dorian just glared at her as he said, "If you call saying 'no' to a foolish idea 'doubting' then you are becoming mad in the head"

That earned him a growl from Rowan but before the silver haired prince could say anything, Eva interfered "What are you talking about?"

Rowan, not taking his eyes off of Dorian, replied, voice etched with frustration, "We are having a ball of sorts for tomorrow evening."

Lysandra just beckoned the girl over to her side with an exasperated sigh "The people are getting suspicious. Some residents said that they heard horrible noises last night, which was clearly because of your fight against the Valg-demon, the monks and sages in the sanctuary actually sent Aelin a letter demanding to know why some of their most ancient books containing dangerous information were used by me and Elide when we went there,"

Yrene filled her cup with water as she added, "Apparently, us all being here is also a cause for concern for many including lord Darrow who is getting really suspicious about us arriving here out of the blue. Not to mention, y/n, you weren't as slick as you thought because you were spotted by some when you flew over the city the other night."

Chaol just looked at his wife with wide eyes "You support their idea? We don't need any extra attention. Hosting this silly little ball for the sake of calming the lords and ladies is just a waste of time AND resources."

Manon just smirked "Actually, it is an amazing idea. Everyone will believe that we are here for this gathering and will therefore, stop worrying and sniffing where they don't belong. We won't have to look over our shoulder every second to see if anyone is suspicious. Especially Darrow."

Lorcan nodded as he looked pointedly at Chaol "It is also a great chance for the Valg's to try something. We can all be on alert and ready to strike if that happens. And then get some answers out of them."

Dorian just shrugged while coming to sit next to Manon "Well, if this woman beside me says that the idea is amazing, who am I to disagree?"

Aelin narrowed her eyes at the young king "Oh, so when I say it, the plan is horrible but when Manon agrees, suddenly the plan is amazing?"

"Exactly" Dorian said as a matter of fact while winking at the blond female.

Aelin was about to retort when Rowan put a hand on her shoulder while announcing to the room "It is decided then. We are having a ball tomorrow."

Dorian then turned his eyes to y/n and got up, coming closer to the couch on which she was sitting in "When Aelin told me that you have wings, I thought she was making things up. Turns out you do truly have wings! Very fascinating, by the way."

Dorian stood right infront of her now, extending his hand out for her to shake and as she took his hand in hers, he said with a blinding smile, "Dorian Haviliard the Second. King of Adarlan and....well, that's all, essentially."

"And Manon's lapdog" Aedion snorted from the table followed by other laughs and chuckles. Dorian just rolled his eyes "Ignore that one, he doesn't realize it but we all see how he follows and does whatever Lysandra says like a lovesick puppy."

Y/n smiled as Lysandra snickered while Aedion scoffed "Nice to meet you, your majesty. I'm y/n y/l/n, from Prythian. Specifically, the Illyrian mountains."

"Please, call me Dorian. I think you and I will get along just fine, y/n. Let's sit down and talk some time, yes?"

"Absolutely, Dorian."

She heard someone clear their throat as both y/n and Dorian looked to see Fenrys, with a blank look directed at the king beside her, say "Well, now that the plan is decided and the introductions are out of the way, can we start eating? I am hungry."

At that, Aelin voiced her agreement as Dorian went back to his place beside Manon and the servants brought food to the low table between y/n and Fenrys.

She would have to thank whoever's idea it was to make them sit on the couches because y/n didn't think she would be comfortable with her injured shoulder, sitting on one of those chairs and neither would the warrior sitting in front of her with his injured torso.

The room buzzed with conversation as they ate, the tension gradually easing with each passing moment. Dorian's voice rose occasionally above the others, regaling them with tales that drew laughter and camaraderie. Y/n found herself relaxing in the company of these extraordinary individuals, each with their own stories and struggles, yet united in their commitment to protecting their world.

But y/n noticed that Fenrys barely even touched his food despite claiming to be starved. She sighed as she took the fork and spoon to her hand, "For someone who said he was hungry, you haven't eaten much."

He just kept playing around with his meal, not eating anything "You two were taking too long with your introductions so I decided to do everyone a favor and end it."

Y/n raised an eyebrow as she took a bite of her meal, deciding to test the waters a bit.

"Well that's just rude Fenrys. I actually quite liked Dorian. I can see why Manon is with him. I mean, just look at that face-"

"One more word, I dare you."

The look on his face told her all she needed to know. Fenrys was jealous. In fact, he was burning with it as he stared her down, his gaze turning darker with each second.

Y/n licked her lips, her gaze never wavering from his as she watched him clench and unclench his hands (which seemed to be a habit of his when he is aroused or angry) while staring at her mouth.

"So, so charming too. The way he talks-"

Fenrys got up abruptly, the action causing a slight wince from him before he slowly started walking out of the room. Y/n got up to go after him but Lorcan beat her to it and as much as she hated the giant man for it, she knew they also had an issue to resolve and talk about.

Deciding to give them their moment, she slowly started heading back to her room, wincing whenever her shoulder would move too much.

"Where do you think you're going all on your own with an injury like that?"

Y/n turned around to see Lysandra slowly walking over to her in the hallway, arms crossed over her chest. The shifter reached her and took her uninjured arm, slowly helping her walk.

"I don't need to be coddled at all times, you know."

Lysandra just smirked but did not remove her hands from y/n's arm "I know, and I also know that the last time you woke up injured from a Valg attack and were left all on you own, you decided to venture out into the city with Nox and get yourself nearly killed by another Valg creation."

Y/n scoffed "You make it sound like I knew that would happen. I had no idea that Nox was even out there!"

Lysandra chuckled quietly as they turned a corner. "I know, I am sorry for ever doubting you. I truly like you now. Your commitment to helping us not only because you want to go home but also because you are worried that the Valg pose as a threat to everyone really made me trust you fully."

Y/n sighed, feeling a mixture of gratitude and guilt. Lysandra's support meant a lot to her, especially given the uncertainties they all faced. She leaned slightly on the shifter for support as they walked through the quiet palace corridors.

"I appreciate that, Lysandra," y/n replied earnestly. "I just... I can't sit idly by when there's a chance to make a difference. And after what happened with Nox, I understand the dangers better. And I think I am beginning to understand Elara's weird words."

Lysandra looked at her with a confused expression "Elara? Who in the Gods name is that?"

Y/n chuckled before replying "This woman who has appeared to me twice. Apparently, she is an iron teeth witch who has given me some very cryptic advice and disappeared before I could get answers to all of my questions. I really am stuck, needing to understand more about my powers and connections to this whole thing. And without her, I don't think I ever will."

She felt Lysandra stiffen beside her and stop abruptly, causing y/n to come to a halt as well. She stared at the ground, her eyes calculating as she seemed to slowly digest all that y/n just told her before whispering a "Maybe you don't even need her for answers."

Before y/n could even question her, the shifter quickly let go of y/n and ran back shouting over her shoulder, "Go to your room and wait for me there!"

Y/n, still very shocked and confused at what just happened, climbed up the last few stairs and headed to her bedchamber.

After around thirty minutes, Lysandra burst into her room with a scroll in her hand and Manon beside her. The second her eyes landed on y/n who was sitting on the couch near the window, she took quick strides to reach her. Once she was in front of the witch, Lysandra kneeled down, sitting on the low table in front of y/n and opening up the scroll. Manon also came to quickly stand beside her as she waited to hear what Lysandra had to say.

"This is an ancient text," Lysandra began, her voice filled with reverence. "It speaks of Elara, an iron teeth witch who lived centuries ago. She was not only powerful but also deeply connected to the magical gates that connect our world with others."

Y/n's breath caught in her throat. "Connected to the gates?"

"Yes," Lysandra confirmed, her eyes scanning the parchment. "Elara's abilities were linked to the gates themselves. She could open and close them at will, wielding their power to protect our realm from threats that sought to cross over."

"Wait. How....how do you know all this? How did you know about this scroll?"

Lysandra just looked at Manon, who was still staring at the shifter with a questioning look in her eyes, as she said, "Because Elara has been a legend in our world for as long as any of us can remember. Isn't that right, Manon? Even your grandmother knew of her."

Manon just crossed her arms, seemingly still questioning her, "I am aware of who Elara is. Even Rhiannon Crochan knew of her. Her name would always be whispered around our camps, our stories. What I don't understand is what you told me on the way, about y/n and Elara. Why is she contacting her? I don't mean this in an insulting way but, she has been known as a legend for so long that it is just unbelievable to hear this."

Y/n opened her mouth to reply but was cut off when Lysandra looked down at the scroll and continued, "Yes. Well, she has not only been a legend to Ironteeth Witches, but to the rest of us as well. I had this scroll with me ever since I can remember. I was just so fascinated with her that when I once came across it in one of the antique stores, I had to have it and with time, I began thinking maybe I was a fool for being so obsessed with her, her existence, thinking if she was real or not but....now I realize how she may be real after all."

Y/n's brows hit her hairline as she just gaped at the female in front of her "So you are telling me that I have talked with the most ancient, the most legendary witch of your world?"

"Maybe not even our world."

Both Manon and y/n looked at the shifter with furrowed brows, urging her to explain more.

"Elara was a legend. Her story though mostly unknown, was one full of bravery and sacrifice. She was a chosen one. Her powers being more than just iron teeth and nails. And her name....her name existed for centuries according to the scroll but...."

Y/n saw the realization dawn upon Manon as the witch beside her shifted her position, her eyes getting wider by the second "No way....Lysandra, if we are thinking the same thing then that- that would be impossible."

What? What was she talking about?

Lysandra just shook her head, a smile forming on her face "Would it though? I mean, her name may have stopped being mentioned in this world, in our books and scrolls but what if she went into another world? She did have that connection with the gates after all."

Manon slowly turned her head to y/n as she whispered, "And what if...."

Lysandra also looked at y/n as she said, "What if she went to Prythian, met a man, male, whatever.....had a child with him. A daughter, to be precise."

Manon added quietly, "A winged male and an iron teeth witch who had connection with the gates, who was a wyrdkey of sorts, to them. What could be the odds?"

Realization started to slowly dawn upon her as y/n just shifted her gaze from one female to the other. She laughed uneasily "No you two surely must be delusional. There is not a chance. No way in the seven hells are you suggesting that-"

"You are Elara's daughter." Both the witch and the shifter say at the same time.

No.

It was impossible.

Was it though? You are an iron teeth witch who has wings and an unusual connection to the gates. It could be the only explana-

"Find Manon. Let her know. And find me again when you are ready."

Those were the words Elara had told her when she first appeared to her in an illusion created by the mirror in the crystal caverns.

She needs to go down there again and talk to her, somehow summon her.

Y/n needed answers and she needed them now.

When she came back from her thoughts, she saw both of them staring at her, one with wide eyes and the other with a knowing smile.

Y/n sighed "I- I need to process this. We can discuss this tomorrow."

Lysandra nodded, still smiling, "Of course, see you in the morning."

Then, she got up and dragged a wide eyed Manon who was stuck to her place, towards the door, closing it behind them.

The second the door was closed, y/n jumped from her position and went towards the hidden passageway in her room, getting a small knife, her lamp and a cloak. She removed the floorboard and began her descent.

She went through the same path as the last time. The same narrow ways, damp roads, circular door and the crystal caverns itself.

That last time felt like a lifetime ago, a time when she was still new to the revelations of her own abilities, still grappling with the mysteries of her lineage and the hidden truths of her past. Now, standing before the circular door once more, she felt a sense of resolve and determination, tempered by the wisdom gained through trials and discoveries.

With a steadying breath, y/n pushed open the door, the faint creak of ancient hinges echoing softly in the cavernous silence beyond. As she stepped into the crystal caverns, bathed in their gentle radiance, she knew that this time, she was not just seeking answers—she was ready to uncover the deeper truths that awaited her.

She took the small narrow road to where the mirror was and now standing before it, she had no idea what to do. Y/n stared and stared some more. She needed to think this through. How do you call Elara? The first time she appeared to y/n was because of an illusion that the mirror created and the second time was when y/n got attacked and fell unconscious later on.

So....what does she do now?

With a sigh, y/n said out loud while looking at her reflection in the ancient mirror, "I know. I know the truth now. You are my mother, aren't you?"

No answer, no reply. Nothing.

She still continued, "When we met for the first time, you told me to come find you when I was ready. I think I am ready now. Ready to see you......mother."

Before she could react, y/n saw as her surroundings become a blur, shifting until she was once more on the beach but this time, instead of the moon, there was the sun shining above, casting its glow over the waters.

And then, there was Elara, coming towards y/n with her white flowy dress and beautiful smile.

When the witch reached y/n, they didn't say anything to one another for a short moment, preferring to just look into one anothers gaze. Elara's eyes held a depth that seemed to reflect the eons she had witnessed, yet they softened with a tenderness as she regarded y/n. The wind whispered through the air, carrying the faint scent of salt and seaweed as they stood on the sun-kissed beach.

"My child," Elara finally spoke, her voice gentle yet resonant with an underlying power. "You have grown strong and resilient, despite the trials fate has woven into your path."

Y/n's tried to hold back her impending tears at the adoring way the woman called her. Instead, she whispered in a quiet tone, "Why....why didn't you tell this to me from the first time? Why did you leave me alone in that cruel place, in that monsters hands? Why wasn't my dad with me either? Why did you abandon me? Why- just why?!"

"My child," Elara began, her voice a gentle breeze that carried both warmth and sadness, "the reasons are not simple, nor are they easy to explain. But know this: every decision I made was out of love for you and a deep understanding of the dangers that surrounded us."

Y/n's eyes welled with tears, but she held Elara's gaze firmly, needing to hear the truth, however painful it might be. "I wish I could have been there with you," Elara continued, her voice soft yet steady. "But there are forces at play that even I cannot fully control. The realm of the Valg, their insidious presence, their hunger for power... It demanded sacrifices, and I made the hardest one of all by leaving you in that world."

"Why didn't you prepare me? Why did you let me believe I was alone?" y/n asked, her voice tinged with hurt.

Elara's expression softened further, regret etching lines on her face. "I wanted to protect you from the knowledge that would burden your heart and soul. I feared that if you knew too soon, it would consume you. And your father..." She paused, a shadow passing over her features. "Your father sacrificed himself to keep you safe."

Y/n's eyes widened with both shock and confusion, "W-what....what do you mean?"

Elara sighed and gently took y/n's hand in hers, caressing it "I fell in love, y/n. Your father and I loved each other so much that we couldn't imagine a life without the other. I thought....I thought that because I was in a different world, I would be able to live a normal life. We got a house in the very otskirts of Illyria, then we had you and you....you were the joy of our life my witchling. For a time, we were happy and at peace, just the three of us. And foolish me thought that this happiness could last forever. Oh how wrong I was."

Elara closed her eyes and inhaled sharply before continuing again, "Somehow, someway, the Valgs found me. Erawan found me. It was in the middle of the night when I felt their presence not so far off from where we used to stay. I quickly woke up your father....Marx, and told him what was going on. He ordered me to take you and run, told me that he would meet us on the edge of the mountains and we would run away together. The three of us. He hugged and kissed both you and me before I ran away with you in my arms while he stayed behind. Little did I know, that would be the last time I would ever see him again."

Elara's eyes were teary now as she gave a sad smile to her daughter "Marx never came. And I knew....I knew that he did not make it. But I had to go back, I had to. I brought this disaster with me. However, I also needed to keep you safe. So, I put you in front of a door of the first proper looking house I could find. I had no time to think, no time to plan. I placed a protective spell over you, kissed and hugged you for one last time, said my blessings over you, and then I was gone. If I only knew what a monster I was giving you to, my witchling. And for that, I am sorry. I am so sorry my heart. But I couldn't let them know that I had a daughter. That I had someone I cared for. Or else, they would have come for you as well, which they seem to be doing now."

Y/n couldn't believe this. She couldn't believe what she was hearing, what her mother was telling her. Her father.....her brave father had secrificed himself to keep his family safe.

With a shaky breath, y/n's grip on her mother's hand tightened as she asked "And did you....did you find him?"

Elara slowly nodded her head, eyes seemingly lost in the terrible memory of finding her lovers body in whatever condition it was. She didn't say more and y/n didn't ask more, seemingly afraid of hearing just how she found his body.

But she did ask, her voice shaky now due to the tears that began to fall, "Where...where did you go? Where are you?"

Elara's eyes softened with sorrow as she gently squeezed y/n's hand. "After I left you, I wandered through dimensions, seeking refuge where the Valg could not reach. I sought allies, learned ancient magics, and built defenses against their relentless pursuit. But with every step I took to protect you, I grew farther from the life I once knew."

She paused, her voice thick with emotion. "Eventually, I found solace in a realm untouched by the Valg's corruption. It is a place where time flows differently, where the energies are harmonious and the darkness cannot penetrate. There, I have been watching over you, my dear, waiting for the right moment."

Elara's gaze was filled with maternal love. "You are stronger than I could have ever imagined, y/n. You carry within you the blood of our lineage, a legacy of resilience and magic. And now, as the Valg threaten once more, you must end them completely. My power of connecting to the gates, connecting with the Book of Breathings is installed in you as well. The book knew that you were my descendant from the moment it fell into Rhysands hands. Even though Erawan is dead, somehow the Valgs are returning. You must figure that out. They felt your presence, your true lineage the second the book transported you."

So much was going on. Y/n had so much to say and ask but all she asked was, "How can I bring you back to me....mother."

Elaras eyes lit up at that before she raised her hands and gently caressed her daughter's cheek "You can not. I waited all this time for you to finally realize who you were, what your destiny was and now....now that I have guided you, it is time for me to go-"

"No! Are you mad?! We just reunited! I can not loose you-"

"You will never loose me, my Braveheart. You will always have me, my presence will always guide you on your journey. But I have lived for so long, it is time for me to rest as well, time to rejoin with my love, your father, Marx."

Y/n was fully crying by now, as she agressively shook her head, "No! Mother, please!"

Elara leaned in and placed a gentle kiss on her forehead before hugging her and whispering, "Your father and I have loved you from the moment we laid our eyes on you. And we will keep loving you for eternity, our witchling. We are so proud of you, of how strong, resilient, and brave you are. Of how you endured so much and yet came out even stronger. Always remember who you are, what your power is and end them. Once and for all, end them."

And with that, y/n's surrounding began to blur once more as she felt herself falling and falling until her eyes popped open and she was....in her room. Sitting on the bed. Wasn't she in the crystal caverns? How is she here?

But y/n didn't care. Didn't ponder over those questions as the memory of what just happened took over her mind, making her silently weep into her arms.

Fenrys was frustrated. At what? he didn't know.

At whom? He did know. At himself.

He doesn't understand this....this attraction, this pull he has towards y/n. Whenever they are in the same room, his eyes somehow end up on her, his body somehow finds its way to wherever she is. Whenever she is hurt or in danger? He turns into this violent killer who only thinks of one thing: Protect her. Kill everyone else.

It was starting to get frustrating how he felt all kinds of emotions towards her. How his mind began thinking of her.

Last night during dinner, he was annoyed with how Dorian kept on talking to her. Fenrys knew that Dorian didn't see y/n in that way, after all....he had his eyes on the witch and only on her. Even if they both refused it, everyone and their mother saw how those two were hopelessly in love with one another.

So why did he want to punch Dorian in the face when he saw how the king was the one to make her laugh and not him?

And then, during dinner, y/n's teasing just added to his growing frustration and lust. The way she talked, the way she purposefully kept licking her lips made him want to just take her then and there, in front of everyone.

Fenrys knew that this was wrong, that she would leave sooner or later so feeling this possessive, this claiming need within him was just stupid. But could he stop it? No, no he couldn't.

Last night, after he stood up and left, he saw her get up too and he wanted her to follow him. Fenrys knew that if she would follow him, he wouldn't have been able to keep his hands to himself this time. That he would have made his fantasies about her come true. But then, Lorcan came after him and Fenrys saw how y/n contemplated on following him before clearly choosing not to.

He did feel disappointed but that was forgotten the second Lorcan caught up with him and they began walking side by side through the halls of the palace. He had apologized to Fenrys and Fenrys was absolutely shocked that Lorcan of all people was apologizing. Fenrys could have asked for forgiveness as well, for what he did to his lifelong companion but....he felt no guilt or remorse for protecting y/n's honor, for getting justice for her.

Gods, Fenrys, since when have you gone this mad and caused chaos over a female. That's right, never. So why her? Why now?

These were the questions he kept asking himself while going back to the palace after his morning training when he heard another roar. And no, this wasn't Abraxos because he had already memorized the wyvern's noises by heart. This was another wyvern, this was...Fenrys lifted his head skywards as he saw....Petrah Blueblood.

He remembers the witch whom he came to care for. The poor girl went through so much, just like Manon. He remembers how after the war, when he would go to the Witch Kingdom, he would see Petrah who was now Manon's second in command and how she would still mourn the loss of her wyvern, Keelie. Killed by Iskra Yellowlegs.

This wyvern was one of the few who hatched after the war and Petrah was immediately drawn to it. She raised it all on her own and it grew up to be very large. It was also a female whom she named Luna.

But, what was she doing here now? That's when he also saw Manon and Abraxos in the opening, waiting for her and Luna to land.

He approached Manon while Petrah and Luna were still a little bit away, and spoke first, "Well, this is certainly not what I expected to see first thing in the morning."

Manon just crossed her arms, still looking towards wherever Petrah was in the sky, as she replied, "I needed Petrah with us for this hunt. Her wyvern is very good with smell, she has the unique abilitiy to scent things that are miles and miles away. Besides, Petrah said that she had news she wanted to tell me face to face....and maybe she was also curious about y/n."

He saw how at the mention of her name, Manon's face turned amused, how her eyes held a mixture of wonder and pride. She clearly was thinking of something and Fenrys desperately wanted to know what because it involved y/n but just as he was about to ask, Luna landed right next to Abraxos who was seemingly growing smitten with the female wyvern as they rumbled at one another and Petrah came down.

She and Manon exchanged their witchy greeting, whatever that is before Petrah smiled at Fenrys "How nice to see you again."

Fenrys returned her smile with one of his own "Nice to see you doing well, Petrah."

The witch nodded her gratitude before looking back at Manon "One of our witches was somehow working for the Valg, the second I found out about this, I ordered for her capture and questioning, but she wouldn't talk."

Manon just raised an eyebrow "Was she infested with Valg-"

"No. She was working for them, willingly. Why? I don't know."

"Don't tell me you killed her without getting any answers out of her first."

Petrah just smirked at her queen "You are really underestimating me now, Manon. I gave the order for her to be tortured just last night and immediately flew over here to deliver the news. Whatever information the witches get out of her now, they will send the news immediately."

The queen just nodded her head while Fenrys asked, "How did you even find out about this?"

Petrah shrugged her shoulders "I have my ways, wolf."

"There will be a ball tonight, keep your eyes open and alert at all times. Anything might happen."

Petrah nodded at her queen as Fenrys just said his farewell to the witches before heading towards his room for a much needed bath.

Y/n slept through the whole day. The whole day! waking up when it was already sunset. Clearly, all the events of the last fews days have drained her beyond repair. And what she found out about last night.....she cried until she physically couldn't anymore and probably fell asleep.

When she awoke, there was a note right next to her on the bed:

You must be really tired especially after what we told you last night but, if you wake up, remember there is a ball tonight late in the afternoon.

Hope you're well,

Lysandra

Oh, yes! The ball! she completely forgot!

Y/n noticed that there was only an hour until the start of the event and immediately jumped out of her bed, hissing loudly when her shoulder hurt from the movement. But, she quickly recovered and headed towards her closet in search of an appropriate dress.

Fourty minutes later, y/n stood in the center of her room, her hair made and jeweleries shining as she admired her beautiful dress.

The dress was crafted from a flowing, soft fabric like silk, in a shade of deep midnight blue that shimmers subtly under the light. The neckline is modest yet elegant, gently framing the collarbones without revealing too much. The sleeves are three-quarter length, providing coverage while allowing the injured shoulder freedom of movement.

The waist is cinched with a delicate sash, adding a touch of definition without restricting comfort. As the dress cascades down, it drapes gracefully to the floor, accentuating the figure without being form-fitting.

The simplicity of the design is elevated by intricate embroidery along the neckline and cuffs, catching the eye with its understated elegance. This dress not only exudes charm and sophistication but also ensures ease of movement.

With a final look at herself, y/n left her room and descended the stairs, heading towards the event.

Twenty minutes later, the room was filled with people whom, y/n guessed to be very important. When she arrived, she saw most of Aelin's court already here, had a round of drinks with Lysandra and Lorcan, danced a little with Eva and Elide, got on Aedion and Rowan's nerves, watched together with Yrene how Aelin greets her guests, talked a little more with Dorian and Chaol, and met Manon who had another witch next to her, Petrah Blueblood.

She was also very beautiful. Her skin was as pale as Manon's but adorned with freckles, had a long golden, flowy hair and had deep blue eyes. When Manon introduced them, Petrah gave y/n a genuine smile and told her how happy she was to meet her. How y/n was known as a winged ironteeth whom every witch wanted to meet now that Manon mentioned her to them.

Y/n felt honored, grateful but surprised and a little flustered as well as she said her thanks and chatted a little more with the witches before excusing herself in search of someone else. In search of him. She didn't see Fenrys yet but she knew that he was in the room, watching her. She felt his eyes on her once again. Seems like they had this thing where he would watch her and she would put on a show for him.

But then, their eyes met and y/n felt weak in the knees. Fenrys was there, standing in the corner with a drink in his hand, watching her with an intense gaze. He was so handsome, hair put in a half bun, some strands falling in front of his handsome face, his tailored coat of deep midnight blue was interwoven with threads that shimmer subtly under the light. The coat is fitted at the shoulders and chest, tapering slightly at the waist before flaring out slightly over sturdy trousers of the same hue.

Beneath the coat, a high-collared shirt in a lighter shade of blue peeks out, adding a hint of contrast and sophistication. The sleeves of the shirt are gathered at the wrists with intricate embroidery in silver and his boots are sturdy leather, polished to a deep sheen.

He was beyond handsome, beyond attractive. He was otherworldly, seemingly crafted out of the finest form of marble. She really wanted to do less than appropriate things to him right now and from the way his eyes were eating her whole, he was thinking the same.

Y/n was so entranced with him that she failed to notice Nox Owens come and stand beside her, offering her a drink.

"And so we meet again, my partner in hunting Valgs."

She hesitantly pulled her gaze away from Fenrys and turned to loook at the man beside her, taking the drink in his hand while thanking him.

Y/n took a sip of the drink, feeling the cool liquid soothe her parched throat. Nox stood beside her, his posture relaxed yet alert, his eyes scanning the room with a practiced ease.

She said, "Good to see you're doing well."

Nox looked at her, a smirk forming on his handsome face, "Well, if the Valgs want me dead, they have got to try harder than pushing me onto the ground."

"Thank you, for everything Nox, without your help, I don't think we could've survived that monster."

He just shrugged his shoulder and was seemingly about to say something when she felt Fenrys right behind her. His chest was touching her back, causing goosebumps to rise all over her body.

He said behind her, in that voice of whiskey and sin, "I need to talk to you."

Wthout even waiting for a reaction from her or Nox, Fenrys took her drink, put it on the nearby table, grabbed her arm, and dragged her out of the ball.

He found an unusued, dark room and entered it, still holding her by the arm before closing the door. Y/n ripped her arm away from his grip before looking at him, her arms crossed "Fenrys what in the seven hells are you doing?!"

He didn't reply, his gaze just intensified, those wild eyes zoning in on her lips. While that action did a lot of things to her body, y/n was still angry at him.

"Fenrys! Look at me, what is wro-"

Before she could even continue, he took two quick strides to reach her and tilted her face toward him with his fingers.

All the air was sucked out of her body as y/n realized their position. His face was mere inches away from her, their bodies nearly touching, his lips right in front of hers.

He was clearly holding himself back, he was restraining himself. And for some foolish reason, she didn't want him to.

"Kiss me"

Y/n realized her words only a second after she said them, but she wasn't ashamed, no. She wanted this. Wanted him. Tomorrow, tomorrow she would think about her actions, tomorrow she would be a responsible, levelheaded female once more. But just for tonight, in this dark room, this would be their little secret.

Fenrys' eyes widened, his chest heaving, "Y/n..."

"Kiss me, Fenrys."

And he did. He kissed her so quickly, their lips meeting in an urgent collision. It wasn't a soft, loving, intimate kiss. No, it was rough, needy and full of lust. His hand went to her waist, bringing her closer to him, their bodies joined as one, the other held her by the back of her neck, bringing her closer to him.

Y/n's hands were in his hair as she kissed him just as urgently. He pushed her towards the wall, caging her between himself and the stone behind her.

It was during this intense moment that a nock came on the door.

"Y/n? Are you there? Come quickly, we need to talk!"

It was Lysandra, her voice shattering the growing lust between them, bringing them back to reality. Fenrys' eyes widened as he pushed away from her and looked towards the door.

"Fenrys-"

"This never should've happened. This is wrong."

Without even looking at her, he went towards the door, unlocked it and pushed past an amused Lysandra, heading towards the main doors.

Y/n barely had time to recollect her thoughts when Lysandra just looked at her with raised eyebrows and a small smile, saying "We have a guest, specifically asked for you. Says he is from Prythian."

What?!

Y/n just nodded "Show me"

They went towards the sitting room at the other end of the hall and once Lysandra opened the door, y/n thought she was seeing things.

Lucien was here. Lucien.

It was actually him. He wasn't a transparent ghost like Amren was, he was here, in his physical body.

He looked awful. His hair a mess of twigs and mud, his clothes crumpled and dirty, his eyes wide as he looked at her.

Everyone except Rowan and Aelin was in the room, clearly because they were the hosts of the ball, and of course Fenrys was nowehere to be seen either.

She would deal with him later. Now, now as she took this redhead in-

His hands, they were holding the Book of Breathings.

Lucien came closer to her "Y/n!"

Y/n's shock was written all over her face as she looked at him with wide eyes, "Lucien! What in the Mothers name are you doing here?!"

His eyes looked all over the room, at everyone, and then came back to her as well as he said "Y/n.....Mother above, finally....I-"

Y/n gently put her hand on his shoulder "Lu, what- how did you find me? How did you get the book?"

He just sighed and closed his eyes, "You might want to sit down for this."

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

A/n: Omg! Our fox boy is here! I wonder what will happen next ;)

Taglist: @ladespedidas @mis-lil-red @going-through-shit @kaitttttttt @blackgirlmagicforever

@acotar-writing @paleidiot @snoopyspace @stained-glass-eyes0708 @saltedcoffeescotch

@wallacewillow0773638 @cleverzonkwombatsludge @crazylokonugget @bunnyredgirl

@fullmoon-94 @thecraziestcrayon @idkwahr

@sstrohma @optimisticbabydreamer @rcarbo1 @batboygirlie

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thehighladywrites · 1 year ago

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Throne of glass characters x reader, sending them lingerie pics

summary: you send them pics of your new lingerie

warnings: suggestiveness, mdni

amara’s note: this is my first throne of glass related post, i’m gonna start making more I hope

for my wife: @rowaelinsdaughter 💗

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shadowdaddies · 2 years ago

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Here's my Throne of Glass masterlist! I'll keep my posts linked here🩶

✨= fluff

❤️‍🔥= smut

💧= angst

💥 = action (ka-pow!)

Manon

❤️‍🔥My Girl (Manon x Reader)

✨Roar of the Wind (Manon x Reader)

✨Lead the Way (Manon x Reader)

💧✨ Balance (Manon x Reader)

💧✨Beloved (Manon x Reader)

💧✨ In Your Corner (Manon x Reader)

✨Lift Me Up (Manon x Reader)

✨Golden (Manon x Reader)

Dorian

💧✨❤️‍🔥King's Queen (Dorian x Reader)

💧✨❤️‍🔥 Masquerade (Dorian x Reader)

❤️‍🔥Phantom Touch (Dorian x Reader)

💧✨Distraction (Dorian x Reader)

✨The Bet (Dorian x Reader)

❤️‍🔥NSFW Headcanons

Aelin

✨All I Want for Yulemas (Aelin x Reader)

Aedion

❤️‍🔥Serenity (Aedion x Reader)

Asterin

✨Taking Flight (Asterin x Reader)

❤️‍🔥Get a Room (Asterin x Reader)

✨Getting Lost (Asterin x Reader)

✨Keeping Secrets (Asterin x Reader)

❤️‍🔥Stress Relief (Asterin x Reader)

❤️‍🔥One Bed (Asterin x Reader)

Vesta

✨New Beginnings (Vesta x Reader)

Gavriel

💧✨Always Yours (Gavriel x Reader)

✨Mine (Gavriel x Reader)

❤️‍🔥Every Part (Gavriel x Reader)

Fenrys

❤️‍🔥Wild Things (Fenrys x Reader)

✨Anywhere (Fenrys x Reader)

💧💥 ✨Reunited (Fenrys x Reader)

↳ Part 2 Part 3

💧✨Hope Reborn (Fenrys x Reader)

Lorcan

✨Flawless (Lorcan x Reader)

❤️‍🔥So Lorcan DID (Lorcan x Reader)

✨When You’re Sick Headcanons

Elide

💧✨❤️‍🔥Solstice Confessions (Elide x Reader)

Poly Fics

✨Protective Instincts (Rowaelin x Reader)

✨Puppy Love (Rowaelin x Reader)

✨Get Clean (Rowaelin x Reader)

✨Better Mood (Manorian x Reader)

💧✨❤️‍🔥Attention, Please (Manon x Reader x Asterin)

✨ Cold Hands, Warm Heart (Manon x Reader x Asterin)

✨Any Excuse (Asterin x Reader x Sorrel)

✨Lucky Me (Asterin x Reader x Vesta)

✨We Have Now (Elorcan x Reader)

💧Meant to Be (dark!Manorian x Reader)

↳ Part 2 | Part 3 | Part 4

the beautiful dividers on my blog are by saradika-graphics

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randomfanboi · 11 months ago

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Me seeing there's no Throne of Glass Male reader content

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throneofsapphics · 2 years ago

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poly

POLY!ROWAELIN POLY!MANORIAN POLY!ELORCAN

single

AELIN ASTERIN MANON ELIDE ROWAN LORCAN GAVRIEL FENRYS DORIAN NEXT GEN

multi/mix n' match

MANON x READER x ASTERIN

think for yourself ↳ you did learn pretend* lifeline on the edge*

ASTERIN x READER x ELIDE

cinnamon

LORCAN/FENRYS/ROWAN x READER

the arrangement*

LORCAN x READER x FENRYS

track 32

AELINS COURT x READER

one more for the party

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infinitedivinity · 11 months ago

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thinking about doing dorian's makeup :3

he's laid out on your bed, and you're sitting on top of him. his hands are gripping your hips and waist as you talk him through what you're doing.

"close your eyes." you tell him, dipping your ring finger in some sparkly blue cosmetics. "what's that for?" dorian asks, keeping his eyes open as he looks down at the pallet. "it's for your eyes." you try to explain. when he kinda just stares at you, you give him a light smack on his shoulder. "i said close!"

"yes, ma'am." he laughs, finally closing his eyes. you smear the blue shadow over his eyelids and feel there's no need to apply a dark coat over his lashes since they're already so long.

"you're all done!" you grin, staring at him as he opens his eyes. he blinks away extra powder, and you move to help him sit up. "do i look like a princess?" he puckers his lips, blinking his lashes at you. you roll your eyes as you smile, "yes. a very pretty one."

"obviously." he stands up to look at himself in the mirror.

HE LOVES IT. he literally falls in love with himself.

now you're stuck watching him kiss at the mirror and touch up his hair for hours.

it's late, late into the night when you finally convince him to take his makeup off.

"can we do this again?" he asks as you run a warm, damp rag over his cheeks. "sure. i'll teach you next time." you reply sleepily.

#like imagine dorian with cardan's makeup on..#IMAGINE DORIAN AND CARDAN IN THE SAME ROOM #cardan would teach him eyeliner #dorian is js so pretty and would do anythinh for his partner I already know #dream man fr #throne of glass #dorian havilliard #dorian havilliard x reader #dorian x reader #jem🌙dorian #jemrambles #aelin galathynius #chaol westfall #manon blackbeak #aedion ashryver #rowan whitethorn #yrene towers #throne of glass x reader

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ggukgoldensoul · 2 years ago

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THRONE OF GLASS

ROWAELIN

Bring her home

Home

Got a secret, can you keep it?

what happens in the forest stays in the forest

love marks

housewife

nightmare

anime fan reader

baking

our doll

Mini series; under the water

sleep little one

out of the woods

AELIN

You draw stars, around my scars

i hate you

photoshoot

ROWAN

I'm sorry

Yes, sir

good night

sick

little bunny

MANON

Happy birthday

Morning routine

Sweet mornings

Mine

my girl

keep my heart

ELORCAN

Drooling over me

FENRYS

I see red

DORIAN

Like a kid

womanizer

always know what to say

my present

babygirl

LORCAN

Praise

fight for you

ELIDE

the blush one her cheeks

LYSANDRA

nsfw alphabet

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likecanyoujustnot · 1 year ago

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Just Two Heirs: Pt 1

The wedding

Summary: We know Dorian and Aelin could have been betrothed in another universe. Well in this one they are.

A/n: I had an existential crisis. Anyway. Enjoy. It’s pretty long and I haven’t been to a wedding since I was about 10 so I can’t remember what is said. And there will probably be inconsistencies in the characters because it has been a long time since I read the books. Aedion says cuz. Chaorian?? The dialogue is very repetitive.

•*•*•*•*•*•*•*•*•*•*•*•*•*•*•*•*•*•*•*•*•*•

Dorian was to be wed to the crown princess of Terrasen.

The betrothal had been planed out since he’d been 11.

His father and Aelin’s parents and the king of Terrasen agreed it was a good decision, one to strengthen ties and secure the succession of both kingdoms.

Never thinking that they would both be marrying someone who was nearly a stranger to them.

But Dorian couldn’t do much to stop it.

Chaol thought he should just go along with it.

“From what I hear she’s quite beautiful, you could do a lot worse.”

But he didn’t get his reputation as an infamous womaniser and heartbreaker for listening to his friend.

But marriage would put an end to his adventures with the women of court. Dorian was many things. But he would not be unfaithful.

She was coming in four days, they would have a week to properly get to know each other before being wed.

Preparations for the biggest social event of the decade were under full swing. Decorations were already being put up, his father had a tailor coming tomorrow to fit him for some new outfits for the ceremony and their honeymoon, wherever they decided to go.

He stared out at the gardens currently being trimmed and cut ready for the visitors. He would go find Chaol, spar with him to take his mind off his future.

Aelin wasn’t quite scared.

More so apprehensive.

In about a week and a half she would walk down the aisle to say her vows and tie her life to that of the prince she’d met thrice.

“You will be fine, darling.” Her mother, Evalin said, watching as Aelin tried on the various dresses in hope one tickled her fancy.

This one was rather revealing, with a deep plunging neckline. She shook her head and it was taken off her.

“I know mother, but I have no idea what to expect, for all I know he could be ugly and horrid.” She knew he wasn’t. Unless he’d majorly changed in the last seven years and the stories she’d heard were wrong, he was extremely handsome and a much loved man.

“All will be well, worse comes to worse, you get divorced after a few heirs are born or you take another lover.”

“Mother.” She moved her hair over her shoulder so the dressmaker could do up the gown. “Surely you are not condoning cheating.”

She took a sip of the wine. “Of course not.”

Aelin turned and looked in the mirror.

This was the one.

It was silk and hugged her curves, the neckline showing a little bit, but not too much, with off the shoulder sleeves that gaped open at her wrists.

“I love it.” She whispered. The dressmaker smiled at her reflection.

“It’s looks wonderful on you, fireheart.” Evalin said. “Everyone is going to love it.”

The carriages had been prepared as Aelin slept. She, her mother and father, her cousin Aedion, and great uncle, the king of Terrasen, would spend the next few days travelling to Rifthold so they could get there in time for the week of celebration that was customary to precede the wedding.

The adults were going in one carriage and the cousins in another.

Aedion wasn’t happy about the marriage. He was fiercely loyal to his cousin and family and would do anything for Aelin. Evalin had taken the boy in after his mother, her cousin, had died and his father had been no where to be found.

But it was no secret amongst the Ashryver Galathyniuses that his father had been fae.

Aelin was fae too. She could shift into an immortal form.

Not that she did it often.

The carriage lurched and so began the journey.

Their first stop was in Perranth. The home of Lord Lochan.

His wife, Marion, was one of Aelin’s nurses but was travelling with them, so she had been happy for the excuse to see her daughter Elide, who was the same age as Aelin.

Aelin pretended not to notice the covert glances between her friend and cousin.

They set off the next morning and stayed at an inn in the Oakwald Forest.

Very few of the guards had slept that night with how unprotected they were.

Then finally, they made it to Rifthold.

The city was bedecked with garlands and decorations everywhere.

People cheered as the procession made its way through the streets to the glass castle. It glinted in the sunlight, massive and casting a large shadow over the city.

The carriage stopped and Aedion jumped out before taking Aelin’s hand and helping her down.

Standing in front of the large doors was the king.

The Galathyniuses walked up the steps and Orlon shook hands with the king.

“It is a pleasure to be here for the joyful union of our kingdoms.” He said.

“Yes, it will be a great one.” The king replied.

Aelin and her family followed the king through the castle and to a dining room, where four people were standing.

Queen Georgina, Price Hollin, a man she didn’t recognise, and her betrothed. Dorian.

At least the reports of his beauty had not been exaggerated.

Midnight black hair and piercing sapphire eyes, cheekbones and a jawline that could cut glass, a full mouth and toned body shown off by the cut of his white shirt and black pants.

He looked every bit a charming prince.

“Princess Aelin, my eldest son, Dorian.”

Dorian walked over to Aelin and kissed the back of her hand. “My lady.”

She curtsied to him. “Prince.”

He extended her his arm and when she took it he lead to her a seat down the far end of the table.

He has lovely manners. She thought.

Dorian pulled out her chair, pushed it in and sat to her left.

The other man she did not recognise sat next to him, and Aedion sat on her other side next to Evalin.

“How was your journey?” The prince asked.

“It was well, a bit tedious, but we made it.”

Dorian nodded.

Aedion stuck his head so he could see around them.

“Who are you?” He asked, tone bordering on rude.

The brown-haired man looked at Aelin’s cousin. “Chaol Westfall, captain of the guard, close friend to Prince Dorian.”

Aedion frowned. “You look too young to be captain of the guard.”

Chaol glared right back at him. “I’m 20.”

“Let’s just calm down, okay?” Dorian said, raising his hands. “Prince Aedion, I assure you we are well protected here.”

Aelin looked at Aedion with a brow raised.

Servants brought out dish after dish. Much more than they would serve for only 9 people in Orynth, and only halfway through Aelin felt as though if she ate anymore she would explode.

Dorian seemed to notice this. “Father, do you mind if we leave the table?”

The king remained silent.

It was Orlon who said, “Let them go, enjoy some time together before they get married.”

Both of them stood up, leaving Aedion and Chaol glowering at each other.

Aelin had no clue where Dorian was leading her, but she hoped it was somewhere cool. The Adarlanian summers had a sting to them.

“These are my rooms.” He announced. “And in a week, I suppose yours too.”

He flopped down on a couch and gestured for her to sit opposite.

“I suppose you’re as joyed about his union as I am.” She said.

He raised his brows. “And how joyed are you?”

Aelin felt a blush creep over her cheeks. “Not overly, I would rather marry a man I know and for love, not for the political gain of my family.”

Dorian sighed. “I would too, but there is not much we can do, unfortunately as nobles, how we live and who we marry is predetermined for us.”

Aelin made a snort of agreement.

Dorian lied down so his head was resting on a chair arm and his legs dangled over the other. “We could always divorce once we have heirs and our parents are no longer hounding us.”

Aelin smiled. “That’s almost exactly what my mother said.”

The corner of his mouth lifted and he turned to face her. “Or you never know, maybe you’ll learn to love me.”

She looked at him incredulously and he laughed, the sound and the splitting smile turning him from beautiful into devastating. “Don’t look so disgusted. I have broken the hearts of many a woman, and once a man.”

“That doesn’t mean I’ll give you mine.”

He grinned. “We’ll see.”

The next few days lasted without incident. Dorian and Aelin would go for walks throughout the gardens, or down into Rifthold to allow Aelin to get the feel for her new home, Chaol and Aedion continued their pissing contest, and the king continued to give Dorian disapproving glares, despite the fact he was doing what he had been told.

Aelin slept in a room next to his, which he understood.

He was sleeping in, two mornings before his wedding when there was a knock on the door.

“Who is it?” He called. It would have to be someone trusted or the guards wouldn’t let them in.

“Me.”

Chaol.

“Come in if you must.” Dorian grabbed the pillow from under his head and laid it over his face.

If Chaol was here this early it was not a good sign.

“Dorian.”

“What.”

“Can you remove the pillow.”

He moved it back and sat up, watching his best friend who stood in full uniform, posture ridged and correct. “What can I help you with?”

“Your future in-laws wish to meet with you.”

Dorian’s eyes widened. “Why?”

“Not sure, but I would assume they would want to know you a little bit.”

Dorian sprung out of bed and threw on a shirt, gesturing to Chaol to turn around so he could change his pants.

He froze, one leg halfway in. “My parents… they’re not meeting with Aelin are they?”

Chaol remained staring at the wall as he replied. “I know your mother wishes to speak with her, but I do not think your father cares.”

He finished putting on his pants. “If Aelin does talk with my mother, I want you to get her out of it immediately.”

“Can I turn around?”

“Yes.”

Chaol spun to face him. “You will not be able to separate them for the rest of her life, nor can you keep her from your father.”

“My father is a horrible man, and I want no one to have to go through even a fraction of what I did.” He said, grim determination on his face as he stared down his best friend.

“So please, take her to the library, the bakery, the gardens or stables, anywhere Chaol, please.”

Chaol nodded and the two friends left the room.

Dorian raised his fist to knock on the door of King Orlon’s room. He made eye contact with Chaol, who nodded, and rapped his knuckles on the wood.

The door was opened by Evalin. “You’re here! Come in come in.”

She shut the door in Chaol’s face.

Evalin looked a lot like Aelin. They had the same hair colour and those Ashryver eyes.

Aedion, Orlon and Rhoe all sat around the coffee table. He assumed the casual atmosphere was supposed to ease him, but it just made him more nervous.

“So Dorian, you excited for the wedding?” Rhoe asked, stirring his tea.

Dorian contemplated how to answer that. “I am looking forward to it, it will be something very different that’s for sure, but Aelin seems wonderful from what I’ve gotten to know these past few days, and I think we could make each other happy.”

There you go, he didn’t show resentment for the predicament, he complimented their princess, and he made a statement about how their relationship could go.

Evalin and Rhoe seemed satisfied and nodded with smiles on their faces.

“What do you hope to accomplish once you become king?” Orlon asked.

Shit. It was no longer about Aelin.

“Well, there are a number of things, I would like to smoothen our relationships with other kingdoms, both on Erilea and the other continents. And I wish to help the impoverished, make sure they can afford to eat and live well.”

Orlon nodded. “Very good. Once you marry princess Aelin, where will she fit into this?”

Back to Aelin.

“I’m not sure yet, I she may help me if she wishes to, but her time is her own.”

The king nodded. “Hypothetically, if both of you were to come into your birthrights, so if your father, myself and Rhoe were to die, what would you do in terms of titles and kingdoms?”

Dorian honestly has never thought of that. Even if his father died, there was still Orlon and Rhoe, so he didn’t imagine getting both crowns for years and years.

“I’m not quite sure, I would imagine if say my father died first, Aelin would become my Queen Consort, and then if something happened to the both of you she would also be Queen of Terrasen.”

“And you would also be king consort.”

“Maybe.”

“Would you not just divorce?” Aedion cut in. “Or merge the kingdoms?”

Dorian looked to the prince. “I would not divorce your cousin just for the succession, and combing Adarlan and Terrasen would not be sustainable.”

Orlon smiled. “Good answers, boy.”

Evalin spoke next. “Dorian, we understand this… situation may not be how you envisioned getting married, but we are grateful for your cooperation.”

He nodded.

“You may leave.”

Aelin had to meet with Queen Georgina. She was not looking forward to it.

Considering the rumours of Dorian had been true, she assumed those of his mother would be too, that she was a very vain and self centred woman.

And well,

They were right.

Georgina’s rooms were full of maidens rushing around, getting dressed and things ready for the ceremony.

Aelin sat down across from the Queen consort and wondered how this woman came to be married to the king.

“So, Aelin…” She began. “How do you find my son?”

“He’s nice, sweet, I think he would be a good husband.”

She smiled like they had some kind of inside joke. “That’s how they all start off, before you know it, you’ll be neglected, it’s nice to have options.”

“Options?” She echoed. Why did everyone think that just because she and Dorian didn’t know each other well that they would take other lovers?

“The captain of the guard is rather handsome.”

Aelin fought the urge to cringe and throw herself out the window. She quickly changed the subject. “What colour dress are you wearing?”

“Oh red and gold of course, the kingdoms colours. Much the same as you are wearing Terrasen’s.”

That was true. The gown was lovely and green with silver trimmings.

“Most of the guests will arrive tomorrow, Dorian’s cousins, the princess of Ellywe, some delegates from Wendlyn.”

Aelin nodded. She knew all this. Invites had been sent out 6 months ago.

She, yet again, wondered how many fae would be in attendance. While the fae were not being persecuted, they were still looked down upon, especially by the nobility in Adarlan. She wondered how Dorian would feel if he knew he was engaged to a faerie.

“Where are you thinking of going for your honeymoon?” Georgina asked, breaking the silence. “You will have to decide that soon.”

Aelin nodded once more. “I’m not quite sure yet.”

They sat in silence, watching the maidens and sipping their tea when someone knocked on the door.

One of the ladies in wait opened it and Chaol Westfall followed her.

He bowed to both the women. “Pardon your majesty, but Prince Dorian wishes to see his fiancée.”

Aelin stood up and tried not to run out the door.

“Just a word of advice, Aelin.” She turned back to the queen. “There are many in court who will not be happy with this union. Especially those who wanted to be the one to wed my son, so I would recommend that you always watch your back.”

“Thank you.” Aelin tipped her head and followed Chaol out.

“Where’s Dorian?” She asked.

“The library.” He replied, setting off down the hallway.

“Wait- you have a library?”

He looked at her. “Well, I don’t have one, but yes, the castle does.”

“Maybe I will move here permanently.” She mused and Chaol tipped back his head and laughed.

Eventually they made it too the entrance and Chaol opened the door for her. “I doubt he wants me there, so enjoy.”

She thanked him and set off to find her future husband.

Aelin found Dorian in the romance section, sitting in an armchair. He was holding a book open with one hand while the other rested on the back of the chair.

“I’ve read that book.” She said as way of hello.

He looked up her. “It’s good isn’t it?”

She nodded and noticed this was the only seat in this part of the library.

“I’m surprised though.”

“Why?” He moved over and patted next to him on the chair, an invitation to sit.

Aelin took it and squished in next to him, trying to ignore the heat of his body and where their thighs pressed against each other.

“Because it’s a romance book.”

He raised a brow. “Are you saying that just because I am a man, I cannot read a romance book?”

“No, of course not.” She cried indignantly.

“I’m just messing with you.” He grinned. “I enjoy reading about other people, ones who don’t have the responsibility that comes with a crown.”

“I know the feeling.” She muttered.

“You can borrow as many books as you want, keep a few in your room.”

Aelin’s face broke into a wide grin. “You’re going to wish you didn’t say that.” She jumped up from the chair and pulled Dorian after her. She ran up to a shelf and picked out a book. “Hold this.”

And so that went on for 20 minutes. Aelin would grab books and pass them to Dorian, who would occasionally give his opinion on ones he had read and thought she would like, picking out a few for himself

The traipsed back to their rooms, laughing at the tremendous amount they were carrying.

Chaol stared at them as he followed them back.

“At least you’ve found a common interest.”

“Just because you can’t read doesn’t mean the rest of us can’t.” Aelin called in a sing-song voice.

Chaol’s mouth dropped. “I can read thank you very much, I just don’t have the time to.”

Dorian gave his friend a look that said, you’re gonna have to deal with this for a long while.

When they made it back to Dorian’s room they stacked the books in a corner and grabbed one that the other had already read.

When one came across a plot twist or a funny moment the other would ask which part of the book that was and they would discuss it.

For the first time since coming here, Aelin felt that she could at least be friends with her husband.

Dorian stood on a balcony and watched the procession of guests as they were ushered into the castle, where they would be taken to the hall, in which he would be wed.

He saw the princess of Eyllwe, the crown prince of Fenharrow, his cousin Rolland-who he would need to keep away from Chaol-, a silver-haired fae prince from Wedlyn, a son of the Kaghan, some dukes and lords.

People who didn’t care that two 19 year olds were to be married to near strangers. Even if they had developed a friendship in the past few days.

He sighed and went back inside to the waiting assistants to help him into the clothes he would wear for the ceremony.

“You look stunning sweetheart.” Evalin said, hands on her daughter’s shoulders. “Like a queen of old.”

Aelin smiled and looked in the mirror. The dress was a deep green with silver lining. The stomacher was embossed with patterns and swirls and a full skirt fell to the ground. Her golden hair hung around her shoulders, unbound and in romantic waves.

Her father, uncle and cousin nodded their agreement.

Orlon stood up and walked to Aelin, a wooden box in his hands. He opened it and her eyes widened.

Inside was a beautiful tiara, silver and inlayed with emeralds, perfectly matching her dress.

Her uncle took the tiara in hand and placed it onto her head.

“Wonderful.” He said.

Aelin barely comprehended what happened for the next two hours.

She ate and talked with her family, she tried to ignore the pounding in her heart. She was led to a side room, where she would wait until the hall was full and Dorian was in place at the far end for her to walk to.

Dorian strode down the aisle, his father, mother and brother ahead of him and Chaol, as his best man, behind him.

He stood on his side of the dais in front of the officiant, looking at the hundreds of people gathered.

“Nervous?” Chaol whispered.

Dorian chuckled. “Not quite.” He was more so apprehensive at his impending nuptials.

The doors were thrown open and in walked his bride.

The breath was stolen from Dorian’s lungs.

“Ready?” Rhoe asked.

Aelin nodded. The others had already gone.

She took her father’s arm and they left the side room and walked to the entrance of the hall.

Hundreds of heads turned to see them walk down the aisle.

She was surprised to see a few fae among the crowd, including a male with silver hair and green eyes, a massive dark haired male next to him.

Aelin looked to Dorian.

He was gorgeous is a navy blue jacket and pants, a circlet upon his brow.

Rhoe lay go of Aelin’s arm and kissed her cheek. “I wish you much happiness together.” He shook hands with Dorian and sat next to his wife in the front row.

Dorian took Aelin’s hands in his own. “You look lovely.” He said, just low enough for her to hear.

“You clean up rather well yourself.” She muttered.

Dorian smirked and gave a nod to the officiant.

The grey haired man cleared his throat and began. “Dearly beloved, family, friends and guests, we are gathered here today to mark the joyful union of these two young people. Prince Dorian Havilliard of Adarlan, and Princess Aelin Ashryver Galathynius of Terrasen.”

Aelin almost fell asleep as the officiant went on his rant about how it was an honour to be here to witness this momentous occasion.

She wished he would wrap it up so they could exchange vows, and from the distant look of the assembly, they wished much the same. She locked eyes with Dorian who raised a single brow. Aelin bent her head so her hair would cover her smile.

“Now for the vows.”

Finally

“Dorian, you first.”

Dorian took the ring from Chaol’s outstretched hand and slid it on Aelin’s finger. “I swear to remain faithful and loyal, to cherish and love you, from now until the day I die, I ask you, Aelin Ashryver Galathynius, to be my bride.”

“Aelin, do you take Dorian to be your husband, in sickness and in health, for as long as you both shall live?”

“I do.”

Chaol passed her the other ring and she took it, slipping it on Dorian, trying to ignore the heat of his hand and the piercing gaze of his blue eyes. “I swear to remain faithful and loyal, to cherish and love you, from now until the day I die, I ask you, Dorian Havilliard, to be my husband.”

“Dorian, do you take Aelin to be your bride, in sickness and in health, for as long as you both shall live?”

“I do.”

“Ladies and gentlemen, esteemed guests, by the power vested in me, I proclaim Dorian and Aelin, husband and wife, you may kiss the bride.”

Shit.

She forgot about this part.

Aelin froze as the gathering clapped and cheered.

Dorian seemed to sense her nerves, cupping the side of her face gently and slowly bringing his lips to hers, it was a light kiss, barely there, the kind that said, you can pull away now if you wish.

But for some reason she didn’t. Instead she put a hand on his forearm and pushed her lips so they were properly kissing.

His lips were soft, gentle.

She’d just gotten ready to move deeper into it when Chaol cleared his throat.

She pulled back, embarrassed, but no one was looking at them. The people at the front were congratulating their parents.

Dorian took Aelin’s hand.

“Ready?” He asked.

Her father had asked that exact word when he walked her down the aisle, now she was leaving with her husband. She nodded, still slightly flustered from the kiss, and together they walked out the hall, everyone watching them now and cheering.

They made it out of the hall and were ushered into a spare room that contained things such makeup, water, biscuits and cheese, and others that it was thought they might like.

“When are we due for the banquet?” Aelin asked.

Dorian took a sip of water. “They’ll come get us when everyone is seated, then we just walk to the head of the table and then we eat.”

She took a deep breath. “Easy enough.”

Dorian out down the glass and walked over to her. “You okay? You seem anxious.”

She shook her head. “I’m fine, it’s just, this, I guess. We’re married know y’know? We will spend the rest of our lives together.”

“Tune down the excitement would you?” Dorian smirked.

Aelin looked up at him. “I’m so overjoyed, Dorian, you are just so incredible and beautiful, it is truly an honour to be your wife.”

“That’s more like it.” He grinned.

She rolled her eyes.

When did he get so close?

Indeed Dorian was now leaning over her. “Aelin.”

“Hmm?”

Just like at the ceremony he cupped her cheek, and leant down. “You okay?” He breathed, the double meaning was there, was she okay with him kissing her.

“Yes.” The word was barely there as Dorian kissed her, wasting no time with gentle brushes, sinking into the kiss, lips and tongues moving together.

Aelin had kissed a few boys before, but none of them had been as skilled as her husband. She moaned softly into his mouth and wrapped her arms around his neck, pressing their bodies flush against each other.

Dorian pulled back. “Do you-”

The door was flung open and Chaol strode in. “They’re ready for you.” He took in the compromising position, the flushed cheeks and swollen lips. “Shit- sorry… I’ll just… be outside...” He shut the door leaving the two royals.

They remained quiet for a beat before Aelin burst out laughing, Dorian following soon after. They straightened their clothes and crowns and walked out, both avoiding Chaol’s stare.

It seemed that the party had gotten underway when they were gone, people drinking and chatting and laughing, but they all turned to watch the newlyweds walk to their place.

Two seats that were like thrones sat at the far end of the middle table, usually this spot would be reserved for Dorian’s father, but today he and his wife were more important.

He held Aelin’s hand as she sat and flopped down next to her, trying to ignore the raging within him to kiss her again and continue what they started.

The entrees were served.

Dorian was bored

The mains were served.

Dorian was bored.

This was his wedding, surely he should be able to do what he does at all parties, get drunk and take a girl to bed, and he knew exactly what girl he wanted.

The one sitting next to him. With her round green eyes and gorgeous hair, the bare shoulders that begged to be bitten. If she would let him. He watched her from his peripheral, trying to find some indication she was as agitated as he was.

But she seemed to be perfectly happy, chatting with the princess of Eyllwe.

It was going to be a long night.

Aelin could feel Dorian’s heated stare as she talked with Nehemia.

The young princess had come on behalf of her parents, and said that the ceremony had been beautiful, if a bit long.

The song the band was playing changed and Nehemia grabbed Aelin’s hand. “I love this one!”

They danced together for the duration of the song, ignoring the glances of the other people.

Once it ended in favour of something slower, she headed back to Dorian, a flush over her cheeks.

He took a sip of his wine. “Did you enjoy yourself?” He asked.

Aelin grinned. “Very much, thank you.”

He watched her with such intensity she felt the flush creep back up, but for an entirely different reason.

“May I have this dance, highness?” Dorian’s cousin Rolland stood next to to Aelin’s chair, hand outstretched.

She didn’t even glance at Dorian as she took his hand and he led her onto the dance floor. “Are you enjoying yourself?” He asked.

She ignored that those were almost the exact same words Dorian said. “I am.”

He looked a fair bit like Dorian, the same hair colour, same face structure, but where the heir’s made him look beautiful and welcoming, his cousin’s was hard and serious.

The song ended and Rolland went to get drinks from the bar.

A woman Aelin had never seen before approached her.

She had dark hair and a face that seemed permanently sketched in a scowl. “So you’re Dorian’s wife.”

“Considering I just married him, yes.”

A cruel smile pulled at her lips. “We used to be a thing, he and I, he claimed he loved me.”

Aelin has seen the jealous types in court before, the women who think they have some claim to a man with a title. She had to deal with a fair few who wanted to know everything about Aedion, is he dating anyone? Does he prefer blondes or brunettes? Aelin always tried to avoid those interactions.

“That’s nice.” She said, tight lipped smile that said she didn’t want to be here. She turned to head back to her husband and ask just who this woman was.

“He’ll tire of you like he tired of me.” The woman said. “Everyone knows it is an arranged marriage, you won’t last long in his bed, he’ll favour some younger thing.”

Aelin turned back to her. “I have no intention of letting that happen, I plan to stay exactly where I am.”

She didn’t intend for the innuendo that she was in Dorian’s bed, but it caused the woman’s face to redden.

“He won’t love you, he doesn’t love anyone.”

Aelin’s gaze narrowed. “Or maybe he just doesn’t love you.”

Dorian watched Rolland dance with his wife with barely restrained rage.

When his cousin left to the bar he breathed a sigh of relief, until he saw just who approached Aelin.

Kaltain.

Aelin walked over to one of the other tables where Aedion sat.

He made the move to head over there before Kaltain intercepted him. He suppressed the urge to groan.

“Dorian.” She purred.

He nodded. “Kaltain.” Despite what she probably told Aelin, they’d never been in a relationship, though she’d made her intention on the matter clear from the beginning.

“Just had a… lovely chat with your bride.”

“I bet you did.” He muttered, gaze tracking to where Aelin was now dancing with Chaol. Bastard. He was supposed to be his friend.

“Dorian, listen if you ever want-” she placed her hand on his bicep.

“No sorry, I’ve got to go.” He extracted himself from her grip and stalked over to Chaol and Aelin.

Aelin tipped her head back and laughed. “No way you fell.”

Chaol grinned. “I did.”

The captain spun her and she saw Dorian striding for them.

Chaol pulled her back to him.

“May I dance with my wife?”

Chaol frowned at his friend. “The song hasn’t finished.”

Aelin extracted herself from his arms. “It’s fine.”

Dorian pulled her to him, placing one hand firmly on her waist.

“Who was that woman that spoke to me?” She whispered.

“Kaltain Rompier. Her father is a lord, she’s been pursuing me for years.”

“Oh.”

“How’s the wedding?” He asked.

Aelin shrugged. “It’s alright, I think it’s a bit over the top, but I do appreciate all the planning and decorum.” She yawned, a hand over her mouth.

“Bored?” He raised a brow.

“Out of my mind.” She replied in a conspiratorial whisper. “It’s been three hours since the ceremony, surely we can leave now.”

Dorian laughed and his lips brushed the shell of her ear. “We could probably sneak out, the novelty of the wedding has worn off, everyone’s just using it as an excuse to get drunk.”

Aelin shivered. “Someone could see us.”

She could hear his smirk as he replied. “And? We’re sneaking off after our wedding, something married couples usually do.” He drew out the last words so she knew exactly what he meant.

“Dorian.” She hissed.

“What?” He grinned down at her. Devastatingly beautiful.

Aelin’s breath hitched and she quickly averted her gaze. “Nothing.”

“We can leave if you want to, Aelin.” The seriousness in his tone surprised her.

His blue eyes held such severity she found herself at a loss for words. “I-”

“Dorian! Aelin!” Came a shout from the other side of the room.

They both turned to find it was his father.

Dorian looped Aelin’s arm through his and they weaved through the dancing couples.

“Father.”

“Children I would like you to meet Rowan Whitethorn.” Aelin didn’t particularly like how he called them ‘children.’

A fae male stood in front of them. He was the one with silver hair that Aelin had seen at the ceremony.

Rowan bowed to them.

“You’re fae.” Aelin said.

Rowan nodded. “Prince of Doranelle.”

“Whitethorn came to see the wedding on behalf of Queen Maeve.” Aelin detected a bitterness in the king’s words, she remembered that he held a dislike for faeries.

“Nice to meet you.” Dorian shook the male’s hand. “My wife and I thank you for coming.”

Rowan nodded. “It was a lovely ceremony.”

“How long are you staying in Adarlan?” Aelin asked.

“Just a few days. Then I have to meet with the witches.”

Witches. The blue-blooded men-eating women who primarily kept to the mountains. Aelin hoped she’d never have to cross paths with one.

They discussed a few more things with Rowan before he excused himself, as his massive friend was about to punch a lord.

Of course that left them alone with Dorian’s father.

Aelin could feel the tension in her husband, so she took his hand and gave it a comforting squeeze.

“I hope the both of you have enjoyed the wedding.”

Aelin nodded. “We appreciate all the planning that has gone into it.”

Aedion sauntered over to the couple. “Can I talk to you two?”

Aelin nodded and they left the king.

“What is it?” Aelin asked.

“When’s an acceptable time to leave the party?”

“You came to ask me that?” Aelin hissed.

Aedion ran a hand through his hair. “Well yeah.”

Aelin glared at her cousin. “I suppose you can go.”

Aedion clapped Aelin on the shoulder. “Thanks cuz.” He took the hand of a dark haired woman and they walked out.

“You know, if he left, we probably can.” Dorian suggested.

Aelin sighed. “I’m ready to leave.”

The prince took her hand and they snuck out of the ballroom.

They were giggling as they ran up the stairs to Dorian’s tower.

“What’s it like being married?” Aelin asked.

Dorian shrugged. “Not much different, but I know have to spend the rest of my life with you.”

“Yes, but I’m fantastic.” Aelin grinned.

Dorian stopped and brought her hand to his lips. “Of course you are my dear.”

Aelin watched him kiss her hand. “You sound sarcastic.”

The prince pulled her to him, pressing their bodies flush. “Never in my life have I been more serious.”

“You’re a shameless flirt.” She chastised, but her heart wasn’t in it.

“Unapologetically.” Dorian tapped her nose with his own.

Aelin’s gaze dropped to his lips, just centimetres from her own. She slowly, so slowly, brought them so she was kissing him.

When she moved to deepen the kiss, Dorian groaned, taking her face in his hands and backing her onto the bed.

They spent the night doing the things married couples usually do. Thankfully Chaol wasn’t there to get in the middle of it this time.

Aelin woke up sore and warm. It took a couple of seconds to realise it was because Dorian’s arms were wrapped around her waist. She carefully shifted around to face him.

His inky hair was soft as she brushed it back from his forehead, mussed from her running her figures through it last night, fading pink scratches marred his biceps.

Dorian groaned as he opened his eyes. “It’s too early for this.”

“For what?” Aelin asked.

Dorian did a double take as he remembered the night previously.

The Princess of Terrasen- his wife- looked back at him, golden hair spread around her shoulders, the green eyes rimmed in gold looking back at him.

“I thought you were Chaol.”

“And why would Chaol be in your bed?” Aelin questioned.

“No, that’s not what I meant.” He groaned, flopping back. “I thought he’d woken me up.”

“By brushing the hair out of your face?”

Dorian grabbed the pillow and lightly hit Aelin in the face with it. She laughed, and wacked his bare chest.

“Ow.”

“It’s a pillow, it doesn’t hurt.”

Dorian sat up, a shit eating grin on his face. “Want to test that theory princess?”

Aelin scrambled for the other side of the bed, giggling. “No.”

Dorian grinned as he crawled, naked, across to her. “Come here wife.” He pinned her to the mattress.

Aelin shuddered. Dorian grinned, kissing her deeply.

He just got ready to take her again when the door was banged against.

“Who is it?” Aelin called.

“Me.”

“Go away Chaol.” She yelled back.

“You two need to leave for your honeymoon.”

Dorian groaned. Great.

Aelin slipped out from under him and started getting dressed. “Just think, two weeks with no Chaol.”

That snapped Dorian to attention, as he hurried to get in his clothes.

Once they were ready they walked out, hand in hand.

They’d chosen to go to one of the family’s beach front houses, there was a small town near it that Dorian claimed did the best seafood.

Both the Galathyniuses and the Havilliards gathered to wave goodbye to the newlyweds.

They set off in the carriage, smiling nervously at each other, at this new life.

That last line was really cringy. Sorry.

#just two heirs #dorian x aelin au #sarah j maas #throne of glass #tog fanfic #throne of glass fanfiction #aelin galathynius #aelin ashryver galathynius #dorian havilliard #chaol westfall #rowan whitethorn #manon blackbeak #elide lochan #fenrys moonbeam #aelin x reader #dorian x reader #dorian x celaena #I tagged the x reader tags to try and get to the fanfic sides

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loneliestluvr · 1 year ago

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guys i need an acotar/tog/cc reader possibly fic writing bestie PLEASEEEEE i need someone i can share all my ideas w and ramble to and obviously you can too. IM BEGGING.

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highladyofterrasen7 · 1 year ago

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Look me in the eyes and tell me this doesn’t scream Dorian

#sarah j maas #throne of glass #dorian havilliard #rowan whitethorn #manon blackbeak #chaol westfall #aelin galathynius #manorian #dorian havilliard x reader #empire of storms #sebastian stan #elide lochan #fenrys moonbeam

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danikamariewrites · 1 month ago

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Torn

Aelin x reader x Manon ft. Rowan & Dorian

Note: Happy day 1 of poly+ week! I’m so excited to post these fics you have no idea.

Day 1 is Who’s Court is it Anyway? Being with Aelin and Manon is like walking on air. But being romantically involved with both queens (and kings) comes with its struggles as they constantly fight over which kingdom you spend more time in.

Warnings: angst

Watching the verbal volley between the two queens was fascinating. I didn’t even say anything.

Aelin and Manon have been throwing subtle insults at each other since I sat down for dinner. Rowan and Dorian were noticeably absent from the table.

It’s hard to stop them when both are so strong willed and stubborn.

Manon's iron nails fly out, splintering the wooden table top. Aelin rises from her seat, flames dancing in her eyes and flick up her golden hair. “You’re being selfish.” Aelin growls.

My heart stutters from fear. The realization that Aelin and Manon are truly angry with each other finally dawning on me. I don’t even think they realize I’m still here.

“You’re the selfish one! She basically lives here and she’s lucky if you or Rowan let her out! How can she even visit Rifthold if you keep y/n locked up here?”

Now it’s my turn to get angry. I stand so fast my chair screeches as it flys across the floor. Aelin and Manon stare at me wide eyed, finally noticing me. “You’re both being selfish. And how dare you talk about me like I’m not here!”

They don’t even acknowledge what I’ve said. Going right back to fighting, too wrapped up in wanting to be right. Continuing their screaming match I give up on getting their attention.

Stomping down the hall I head to Rowan’s parlor. The kings lounge on the couch, drinking and laughing together. Why couldn’t Aelin and Manon get along like this?

I shove myself between the two with a huff, hugging my knees to my chest. “Darling, what’s wrong?” Dorian asks, caressing my cheek.

“They’re fighting again.” Both let out a sigh and wrap an arm around me.

“What now?” Rowan asks softly with a kiss to my temple. “How one’s more selfish than the other and I’m not allowed to go anywhere.”

They tense next to me. I know Dorian and Rowan are communicating silently. And I know they both realize there’s a little truth to that statement. “I’ll go talk to them.” Rowan moves to leave but I grab him. “No,” I pulled him back. “Let them figure it out.”

I sit with Rowan and Dorian for over an hour before Manon and Aelin find me. “There you are,” Aelin says with a sigh of relief. I stare at them blankly as they kneel in front of me. “Love, we’re so sorry if we scared you.”

My scowl deepens. “I wasn’t scared. I’m mad at you two.” They both recoil with hurt looks. “If you two, hell the four of you, can’t talk to each other like normal people, then I can’t do this anymore.”

Tears sting my eyes as I rush from the room, leaving the four royals stunned. If they won’t talk like normal people then I can’t stay and have my heart pulled in two directions.

#throne of glass #aelin throne of glass #manon throne of glass #rowan throne of glass #dorian havilliard throne of glass #aelin x you #Aelin x reader #Manon x you #manon blackbeak x reader #aelin galythinius #Aelin x Manon x reader #poly!rowaelin #poly!manorian #poly+sjmweek2025 #poly+sjmweekd1

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moonlitstoriess · 10 months ago

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Across the Universe-ch.13 (Fenrys x Reader)

Warnings: some angst, violence, mutual pining, some kissing;)

See masterlist

Her whole life, she never had anyone. Yes, she had her share of relationships, longest of them being with Azriel, she has had people whom she called friends, family even, she has had acquaintance's, those whom she trained and those whom she met.

But none had ever been loyal enough. Enough to have her back, enough to love her, enough to protect and support her. Enough to promise something to her. Azriel, no matter how long they had known one another, had never told her the three words she was desperate to hear, 'I love you'. He never cared enough about her feelings, her thoughts and words. He never soothed her nightmares.

And now, looking back on it with a clear mind, y/n could see what a blind fool she has been. He never loved her to begin with.

But, last night, Fenrys had not only opened up to her, shown her his unmasked side, but also promised so fiercely to protect her, to have her back. She didn't expect him to be so vulnerable with her. She sensed how he still held back about telling more but that was fine. Y/n was more than grateful with all that he shared with her. And now, knowing his backstory, or atleast some of it, she could only curse on those who ever hurt him. She could only wish for Maeve to come back from the dead so that y/n could brutally kill her with her own bare hands.

Y/n also realized how wrong she was when she judged him. He was not a self-centered, arrogant prick but an honorable, brave, loyal, loving and broken male who only wishes to finally find a purpose in life. Just like her.

Last night, after Fenrys made her a promise that shook her whole world, she managed to only stare at him with wide eyes and mouth which made him smile softly and detach from her, the feeling leaving her cold and for some reason, disappointed. He then turned his back on her and entered his room, shutting the door and leaving her in the middle of the hallway, frozen and absolutely in shock.

She slept like a newborn faeling for the rest of the night. No nightmares, no troubles sleeping, just pure bliss. And now, as she made her way to the training area even an hour earlier than she usually would, y/n felt very refreshed and energize-

"Lu! This is a surprise, since when have you been training?"

Lucien, half naked with his abs and muscles on display, dropped the weights that he was lifting and looked towards y/n.

The redhead pretended to be hurt as he put his hand over his heart, gasping, "Y/n, please, you're hurting my feelings. How exactly do you think that I keep this delectable physique?"

She laughed as she went towards the pitcher full of water.

"I don't know, I rarely ever saw you train in Velaris."

Lucien pointed a finger at her, "Key word, 'in Velaris'. Training with Cassian or Azriel never was the best thing, they just keep judging you, looking at you like you are lower than them."

She drank her water and put the cup down before shaking her head, "I am sorry Lu, it seems like they will never learn."

He just shrugged with a small smile, "Don't be, the only one with whom I truly ever connected there was and still is, you."

She genuinely smiled at that before heading to warm up. She heard his voice again as Lucien said while once again getting to work on his weightlifting, "So, what is going on between you and....what was his name- Fenrys. Yes."

She furrowed her brows and once again looked back at her friend, "What do you mean?"

Did he hear them last night? Impossible, they are in different parts of the palace.

"Well, I don't know, you seem to have some form of a connection. Rowan sees the tension too- in fact, everyone does."

"Nonsense Lu, there is nothing-"

"Do you love him?"

That question made her pause. Did she love Fenrys? Well, she certainly felt an attraction towards him. She felt care and adoration towards him but did she love him? No. No, she did not. She could never love anyone again. Not after what Azriel did. What happened last night was just a one time thing. He probably already forgot of what happened, probably moved on.

She sighed, "No. I do not."

"But you do care for him."

She looked up at her friend, who now was standing in front of her, his arms crossed, "Yes. I care.....as a friend."

"And when we go back, will you forget him as just a friend, a moment in your life, and move on?"

"I won't of course, I mean....he made an impact- this whole thing was unusual and made an impact and....and even if I wont ever see him again I will remember him as a....a good, great even, friend- why are you even questioning me like this is some kind of a trial?"

Lucien smirked and opened his mouth to say something when they heard a wyverns roar. They both turned around to see two figures in the distance, Manon and Petrah, exiting the palace and going towards their beasts.

From the urgency in their stride, it was clear that something was off. Y/n quickly made her way towards them as Lucien grabbed his shirt together with a sword and followed right behind her.

When they reached them the two seemed o be in some kind of a heated discussion as Manon just shook her head, ".....No, just trust me, Petrah. I am going and you either follow me or stay behind but do not tell me not to go."

Petrah just rubbed her temples while sighing, "And what if that place holds nothing? What if your guess proves to be fruitless?"

"Then-"

"What's going on? Where are you going?"

The witches turned their heads to look at her and the prince, Manon just sighed while Petrah tried to keep her expression cool but her eyes betrayed her as they slightly widened while taking in the half naked, sweaty male beside her. She was truly eye-fucking Lucien. And when y/n gave a side eye to him, she saw how Lucien's gaze was also taking in the witch from head to toe. Manon and y/n's eyes collided and they both tried to calm their growing need for laughter.

Manon was the one to quickly recover, clearing her throat, causing the two to just look away immediately, a small, tiny blush overtaking Petrah's cheeks as she tried saying in her most stable voice, "Uh...yeah um- me and Manon are going after the surviving valg."

That caused both her and Lucien's mood to sour as he quickly asked, his voice heavy with concern and frustration, "And you were planning to go alone?! Just the two of you?! Do you even know where you're going?"

Manon scoffed and Petrah's brows furrowed in anger as she crossed her arms, "You think too little of us, prince. Just wait till you see us in action. We are no weaklings."

Manon interfered, "I have a guess about where they might be so I decided to go there. I was going to go all alone, but Petrah found me midway and is now stuck to me like a leech, as you can see."

Petrah glared at her queen, "I'm your second in command, it's my job to have your back."

Before y/n could reply, Lucien said, in a determined voice, "I am coming with you." as he went towards Luna while putting his shirt on, not giving any room for arguments. Petrah looked after him and sighed in frustration before marching over to reach him.

Manon looked at y/n, one eyebrow raised, waiting to hear her decision.

She smirked at the queen, "Well, can't let my kin and my friend go on a dangerous mission without me."

Manon chuckled as she turned and began walking towards Abraxos, "You are a fighter, witchling."

Once they were all sat on their respective wyverns, Lucien sitting behind Petrah on Luna and Manon on Abraxos, the queen flew up first, followed by Petrah as y/n stretched her wings one last time before leaping into the sky.

Y/n soared through the morning sky, her wings catching the first rays of sunlight as they spread wide and strong. The world below was bathed in the soft hues of dawn, casting long shadows across the landscape. Manon and the others flew ahead, their wyverns cutting through the crisp morning air with purpose.

The morning air was alive with the sounds of nature awakening—the distant call of birds, the rustle of leaves stirred by the wind, and the occasional distant roar of a wild creature. Y/n could feel the pulse of anticipation, a quiet understanding that they were on the cusp of something significant.

Beside her, Abraxos glided effortlessly, his scales gleaming in the early light. Y/n glanced at Manon and Petrah ahead, their expressions resolute as they navigated towards the mountainous terrain that loomed in the distance. Lucien rode behind Petrah, his posture determined yet cautious, his eyes sharp with vigilance.

Manon's voice broke the tranquility, firm and commanding as she directed their course towards a narrow pass between two towering peaks. Y/n followed, her senses alert, muscles tensed in readiness. They flew closer, the mountains rising like ancient sentinels guarding the secrets hidden within their depths.

As they approached the pass, a sense of solemnity settled over them. Y/n exchanged a glance with Manon, their unspoken communication reflecting a shared resolve.

Lucien's voice cut through the air, steady and reassuring, "Stay alert, everyone. We don't know what we might find beyond these mountains."

Petrah nodded firmly, her grip tightening on Luna's reins. The morning sunlight cast long shadows ahead, obscuring what lay beyond the threshold of the pass. Together, they flew into the pass, leaving behind the morning light and stepping into the shadowy depths of the mountains. The world seemed to hold its breath, waiting to see what fate had in store for them beyond the horizon.

As they ventured deeper into the narrow pass, the air grew cooler and the light dimmer, swallowed by the looming cliffs that surrounded them. Y/n could feel the ancient weight of the mountains pressing in, their jagged peaks reaching towards the sky like the claws of sleeping giants.

Manon led the way with a steady grace, her eyes scanning the rocky terrain for any signs of movement or disturbance. Abraxos' wings beat rhythmically against the silence, a reassuring sound amidst the eerie stillness of the mountain pass.

Without a word, Manon landed and dismounted Abraxos, her movements fluid and silent. Y/n and the others followed suit. The air hummed with tension as they crept forward, every sense alert to the danger that lurked in the shadows.

Before she could blink, Petrah had her claws and teeth out, much to Lucien's absolute shock, and Manon had her sword in her hand, positioned in front of her and ready to strike as she went ahead and slowly lead the way. Y/n mirrored Petrah's actions, letting her nails and teeth out as Lucien also swiped his sword out.

Manon motioned for them to spread out, her eyes gleaming with a fierce determination. With a swift gesture, she indicated a narrow passage leading deeper into the mountain. Y/n nodded as she followed Manon's lead. They moved silently, shadows melding with shadows as they navigated the labyrinthine tunnels.

The air grew colder, carrying the scent of damp earth and something darker—an acrid tang that spoke of ancient magic and lingering menace. Y/n could feel the weight of history in the stones beneath her feet, a silent witness to the battles fought and the secrets buried within the mountain's heart.

Ahead, the tunnel widened into a cavern—a vast, echoing space illuminated by flickering torchlight. Manon's hand tightened on Y/n's shoulder, a silent warning to stay alert. Petrah and Lucien flanked them, their presence a steady reassurance in the face of looming danger. Y/n swallowed hard, adrenaline coursing through her veins as she prepared for whatever lay ahead.

But when they ventured even further into the vast cavern, y/n's eyes widened with shock. The whole place was covered in unique drawings and writings, most probably an old language she had no idea about. Hanging from the rocky ceiling was a huge upside down, marble statue of a woman-

Manon gasped, "Mala the Firebringer,"

Y/n had no idea on who that woman was and from the slight confusion evident on Lucien's face, he didn't know either. But the two other witches gave a wide eyed look at one another before looking back at the tapestry.

The statue of Mala was a haunting sight to behold. Carved from smooth marble, her features were regal and serene, yet an aura of sorrow seemed to emanate from the stone. Black vines and roses wound around her suspended form, twisting and coiling in a macabre embrace. One black rose emerged from her mouth, its petals stark against the pale marble.

But, before they could explore even further, a voice echoed through the cavern—a low, mocking laugh that sent a chill down Y/n's spine. "So, you've come to play, little witches and prince," it taunted, the words dripping with malice.

Laughter echoed back and then, the shadow shifted, a weird creature coming into view. Weird because while the face of this being was that of a young, handsome man, the body was old, wrinkly and all in all, ancient. From the corner of her eye, y/n saw Lucien shift slightly, coming to stand in front of Petrah.

The Valg-whatever smiled an ugly smile, displaying his rotting fangs as he spoke once more, his voice going from young and charming to old and ugly in a second, "What a surprise has it been, Manon Blackbeak. How is your kingdom?"

Manon simply stared at him, not gracing him with an answer, her expression cold and calculating.

The valg chuckled "And you, Petrah Blueblood, aren't you jealous that a Blackbeak heir sits the throne of Witches?"

When Petrah didn't reply either, his gaze shifted to Lucien, "Oh, how could I forget the fire prince? The one that the book deemed fit enough to send between worlds....our worlds. We shall come for Prythian too."

Lucien's expression hardened but he was too busy glancing around, trying to detect if there was anyone else, to even reply to the ancient hag.

Finally, his chilling gaze landed on her, his smile growing even larger as he said, "Ah, y/n. Y/n y/l/n. I always had a suspicion that Elara would have a descendant of hers roaming around somewhere, unaware of her own powers. How hilarious that this whole time, you were in Prythian, a part of that Death Incarnate's court, unaware of who you truly are."

Y/n's breath hitched, "Have- have you been watching me? This whole time?"

The Valg's smile vanished as he ignored her and looked at Manon and Petrah, and said in the most horrific, ancient voice that carried an echo of millennia "Traitors! Traitors!"

Manon's iron teeth came to view as she spoke, "How many of you are here?"

The Valg started to slowly come towards them, "Oh, they do not know of any of you being here. I shall kill you myself and take the glory for myself once I bring them your dead bodies. What a feast it shall be!"

And then, he jumped, right towards her but y/n managed to quickly dodge away from his path, ripping some of his skin off with her iron claws in the process. He was too quick. Whatever these Valg's posessed, it gave them unimaginable powers. Speed is just one of them.

Petrah sprang into action, her iron claws and teeth glinting menacingly in the dim light of the cavern. She moved with a feral grace, ready to confront the Valg with all her strength. Manon and Lucien swiftly joined her, drawing their swords with a determined resolve.

The Valg hissed as it faced the group. Its twisted form was adorned with dark symbols and runes that pulsed ominously with power. The cavern seemed to tremble with its presence, shadows swirling around it like tendrils of malevolent energy.

The Valg let out a guttural growl. It lunged at Petrah with startling speed, claws extended to rend and tear. Petrah met its attack head-on, her iron claws clashing against the Valg's twisted talons.

It retaliated with a burst of dark energy, sending shards of stone and earth hurtling towards the group. Lucien deflected them with his sword, his movements precise and calculated.

Manon danced around the Valg, her sword a blur of lethal strikes. She aimed for its joints, seeking to disable its agility. The Valg countered with a blast of searing energy, forcing Manon to leap back with a curse.

When she saw an opening, y/n lunged. She aimed for the Valg's back, trying to claw its heart out like she did with the other beast in the forest. But the creature moved too quickly, appearing right in front of her, mouth wide open as it battled against her, claws clashing as it tried to bite her throat.

Sensing an opportunity, Lucien lunged forward with a decisive strike, his sword slicing through the air with deadly intent.

With a final, resounding blow, Lucien's sword pierced the Valg's heart. Dark blood spilled from the wound, mingling with the shadows that surrounded them. The creature let out a haunting cry, its form dissolving into wisps of dark smoke that dissipated into the cavern air.

Silence descended upon the cavern, broken only by the ragged breaths of the group. They stood together, chests heaving with exertion and adrenaline still coursing through their veins. Y/n tilted her head back while closing her eyes, relief flooding her as she looked at her companions.

They all seemed fine. As fine as someone who fought against a demon beast could be atleast. But it wasn't until Petrah looked up at everyone with wide eyes, suddenly falling to her knees while clutching her stomach, blue blood visibly beginning to cover her hands.

No.....no, Petrah could not die like this. She could not.

Before y/n could even process it, Lucien ran towards the witch, screaming, "Petrah!" Manon, wide eyed, shouted, "Quick! Get her on Luna! We have to leave, now!"

Lucien easily got ahold of her, gently lifting her up in a bridal style as he ran after Manon, y/n following suit, covering their backs.

"Just press on the wound Petrah! We will get you healed soon, please just hold on a little more."

Lucien'c voice was frantic, unrecognizable as they all quickly made their ways to the wyverns, Manon looked at the prince, "Do you know how to ride a wyvern?"

"I-"

"Yes or no, we are loosing time!"

"Yes! I will! I will manage just- just help me get her on Luna!"

Once Petrah, barely conscious, was secured, Lucien sat right behind her, gripping her waist gently as he took ahold of the wyvern's reigns with his other hand and immediately leapt off the ground, followed by Manon and y/n.

They flew as fast as they could, Lucien leading the way and shouting at Luna to fly faster. Y/n could only hope that they would make it in time to the palace because even though she hadn't known Petrah for very long, she had grown to warm up towards the witch. Not to mention how they were of the same kin which made y/n feel protective over her.

Once they reached the palace, y/n landed first followed by the two wyverns. She quickly ran towards Lucien to help as Manon went inside to call for a healer immediately. The distress written all over his face made y/n feel so worried for her dear friend. She knew how he felt. After all, that is exactly how she was when Fenrys got injured. Why? she had no idea.

They entered the palace, Petrah barely holding on, Lucien going livid while carrying her in his arms, Y/n by his side, her hand on Petrah's stomach, covered in blue blood. Manon came rushing back with not just some of the healers but also Aelin, Rowan, Aedion and Fenrys.

There was chaos all around her and when the healers moved to take Petrah and put her on a stretcher, Lucien growled. He growled at the healers as if they were an enemy, "She goes in my arms."

The healers nodded and quickly lead the way, followed by the others and y/n was also about to follow when someone grabbed her arm and turned her around, making her loose her balance and almost crush with a hard chest. The hands went to her shoulders, helping her to stable herself as she looked up to see.....Fenrys. And Cauldron save her, he did not look happy at all. His onyx eyes were wide with anger as his grip on her tightened.

Before she could blink, he dragged her with him, not caring about the blue blood on her hands and arms getting on his skin too. She had no idea what was going on, where he was taking her, just stumbling behind him as he gripped her by the arm and lead the way.

"Fenrys what are you doing?"

He didn't answer.

"Fen, slow down!"

He didn't.

"I swear-"

He opened some door and shoved her in, following close behind before locking them in.

When he turned to face her, his fists were clenching and unclenching beside him as the vein on his neck was also popping out due to the clear anger at whataver it is that he was presenting her with.

Fenrys came to stand right in front of her, their chests touching as he suddenly grabbed her jaw with his hand and turned her face from one side to the other, assesing her.

Her brows furrowed, "Fenrys-"

"Shut up."

Well, he was definetly mad at her. His voice was filled with a mixture of frustration and worry.

Once Fenrys was done assesing her face, he took a step back before looking all over her body, from her head to her toes, to her wings. And once he was done with that too, he looked back at her eyes, his intense eyes focusing in on hers.

Y/n felt like she wanted to shrink and become invisible under his livid gaze. Before she could question him even further, he once again came to stand in front of her, looking down on her face.

"How dare you."

Confusion was evident in her face as y/n asked, "What?"

He suddenly grabbed her waist pressing her body to his with one arm and gently bringing her head to his chest while caressing her hair with the other.

Now, he whispered, "How dare you put yourself in the way of danger again. Didn't I promise you that I would shield you from any kind of darkness? How can you go there without telling me, risking yourself."

He was concerned for her? This was why he was mad? Because she put herself in danger?

"Fen-"

"What if it was you instead of Petrah? I would have to go on a full on killing spree then, paint this entire kingdom in black blood."

She tilted her head back, raising an eyebrow, "And where is this protectiveness coming from?"

That question seemed to change something in him, making realization over what he just said take over his face, causing him to slightly loosen his grip on her.

And then, he said the sentence that completely shattered any foolish feelings or growing hope within her chest, bringing her back to reality.

"How will you go back if you're dead? Can't have you dead on my watch, friend."

She pushed back, ripping herself out of his arms as she looked at him, her face full of rising anger and annoyance, "So that's it then? you need me alive so that you won't feel responsible or guilty if I end up dead? So that you can send me back to my world? That's it?"

Fenrys scoffed, crossing his arms, "What did you expect, y/n? That just because I talked with you, that because we kissed and I ate you out, we would have some sort of a relationship? Well, let me tell this to you now, erase any of those kinds of thoughts. You and I have no happy end. It was just purely physical."

It wasn't just purely physical though and he knew it. It was far more intimate than that.

Logically, he was right. They were nothing, they would always be nothing. Their story would be a tragedy instead of a happy one. She has to go back and he has to stay here. They were both stressed and used last night as an opportunity to be vulnurable and intimate with one another. Logically, she should agree with him because after what happened with Azriel, her heart shouldn't feel this way.

But, emotionally, she was just dissapointed. Why? She had no right. He was right, her mind was already getting ahead of itself, imagining a future that would never happen.

Foolish, foolish heart.

With a deep breath, she looked back at him, sculpturing her face into a mask of indifference as she moved past Fenrys, while speaking with a cool and steady voice, "You are right. We are a tragedy waiting to happen."

Before she could hear his reply, y/n quickly left the room, closing the door behind her as she strided towards the healers hut.

Once she reached the place, y/n saw everyone except Yrene and Lucien gathered in the room, waiting for Isolde to come out from the adjacent room with news. At her confused expression, Lysandra said from her place on the couch, "Lucien refused to leave her side. When Rowan and Aedion tried to move him away, he threatened to rip them apart."

Interesting.

She nodded her head slightly in understanding and looked around the room. Everyone's expression's were solemn and mournful, Manon looked worse than them all, Dorian kept on caressing her back and pecking her head with light, gentle kisses as she leaned on him.

She went and sat beside Manon in the corner of the room. Placing her hand on the queen's shoulder. Everyone was busy with their own hushed conversations as Manon whispered, for only y/n and Dorian to hear, "It's my fault."

Both the Illyrian and the king beside the witch replied at the same time, "No!"

Dorian's grip on her tightened, "It's absolutely not your fault, witchling. How-"

Manon just moved back from him, now sitting upright between y/n and him as she stared off into the distance with a sad smile, "The Thirteen died because of me. Now, she will die because of me too. I really am a kin slayer."

Y/n had no idea about who The Thirteen were but, she knew about Petrah and Manon for sure wasn't the one to blame for her injury.

Dorian took her face in his hands and turned her face towards him, "Manon, listen. The Thirteen chose to sacrifice themselves for a better world. You didn't force them, you didn't order them to do it. They did it because they loved you and wanted you to lead the witches into a brighter future."

She just shook her head and y/n put her hand on the witches, making both her and Dorian look at y/n. "Manon, we all went there while knowing what could've happened. Petrah went there, she followed you because you are her queen. You are her leader and she is loyal to you. Her loyalty and repect lies with you. We all fought and Petrah got that injury knowing that it was a possibility when we first came there. So I will not allow you to blame yourself over her attack."

The queen's expression was still sorrowful but the corner of her lips did twitch slightly while her grip on her hand tightened and y/n took it as a form of progress.

Manon whispered again, "When we were in Morath, Erawan would tell us how he was planning on sending his valg spies into the area between those to mountains in Orynth. That's why I thought maybe they could've still been there."

Aelin's voice made the three of them turn towards her and y/n's eyes caught Fenrys entering the room, no sign of any blue blood on him. He clearly changed out of his clothes. His eyes went straight to her but y/n willed herself to look at Aelin.

"Alright, since we are all here, waiting for news on Petrah's well-being, we might as well discuss our next move," the blond queen looked at Chaol who was still in a wheelchair next to Eva, "Chaol, since you're her husband, I am guessing you have an idea on Yrene's progress."

The man just sighed as he said, "Obviously, from the state that I am in, my wife is working very hard. I try my best to persuade her for some rest but, she won't move away from the damned books. She eats and drinks but doesn't sleep. And everytime I ask her on what's happening, she just shushes me and tells me 'soon'. So, that's all from me, really."

Aelin nodded and looked at y/n and Manon as she said, "And now, thanks to these four, we know where the valg may be hidden. We just don't know how many of them are there and how deep they are settled. We need a proper sketch and layout of their place."

Rowan got up and headed towards the door, "I will go find Nox. He is good at staying hidden and working stealthily."

Aedion looked at his cousin, "And once we figure every detail about them out, what then?"

Aelin looked at everyone in the room, "Then, we destroy them, and hopefully, whatever Yrene finds, will help us to completely end the valg. And then," the queen turned to look straight at y/n, her gaze unvawering, as she said, "And then, y/n closes the gates."

Y/n furrowed her brows, her heart rate increasing, "And how do I do that?"

Aelin crossed her arms, her gaze calculating, "I guess that is the only thing left for us to solve now."

So this was really happening now, wasn't it? Just one more step and she would be home with Lucien. Somehow, that thought left a sour taste in her mouth.

The door on the other side of the room opened, Isolde coming into view, everyone's attention went to her as she smiled slightly and said, "She will be fine. The wound was deep but no concerning damage was done to the internal organs. Thankfully, you managed to bring her quickly for medical intervention which is why a complication like infection wasn't observed either. She is still unconscious but hopefully, with our healing and treatments, she will be awake in a few days."

She heard audible sighs of relief, one coming from her and the witch beside her as Manon sagged back into Dorian's embrace while still holding y/n's hand.

"Thank you, Isolde." Aelin hugged the healer as everyone started to slowly exit the room. Fenrys glanced at her once more before pushing past Lorcan and leaving. Y/n guessed it was about time she went up to her room and washed up before hopefully, getting some much needed sleep.

Isolde opened the door and went back into the room, but not before y/n saw a glimpse of Lucien's red hair, as he sat on a chair, his head low, arms on his knees, right next to the bed Petrah was in.

He was an idiot. A fool.

Fenrys closed squeezed his eyes shut as he sat on his balcony floor, leaning against the wall six hours later. For the past few hours, ever since his little heated argument with her, he tried to keep himself busy, hoping that he would forget whatever was between them. Whatever this constant pain in his heart was.

After he left the healing hut, Fenrys shifted and took a walk through the woods to clear his mind. When that didn't work, he had Lorcan fight with him in the training ring. When that didn't work either, he immersed himself in paperwork, signing and reading countless letters and news for him. Unfortunately, two hours of that didn't help either so, he tried to help Yrene with the book-- solving whatever --but she kicked him out after only a half hour of work because according to her, 'he was stressing too much about something, which made her stress too.' And lastly, he sat with Abraxos and Luna but the two wyverns seemed to be quite occupied with one another, making him feel jealous of a Gods damned wyvern, so he left them too and came to his room, still unsuccessful in his conquest of forgetting y/n, staring blankly at the last rays of sunlight before the dawn of the sunset.

The face she had made when he had talked so cruelly to her constantly replayed itself in his mind, causing him to groan out in frustration. He didn't mean it. Gods curse him, he didn't mean any of it. But his foolish, stubborn side made him blabber those words out at her, still, for some reason, annoyed at the fact that she would leave soon. And Aelin openly stating that earlier didn't make it any better.

Why? Fenrys why?

That was a good question, one to which he still had no answer. Fenrys definetly felt something for her, that much he can admit and after what happened last night, his feelings only intensified. But she wasn't his. Yes, he made a promise and yes he would keep it. Even when she will be long gone, back to her world, he would still ensure that her light never dims.

But it was normal right? Friends care and protect one another and y/n had become a very good friend to him in these last few weeks.

Friends don't kiss each other on the lips.

He ignored that silly little voice. He seemed to be doing that a lot these days, ignoring.

Fenrys sighed and opened his eyes, soaking in the view in front of him. He acted like an uncultured beast towards her today. He could never stoop as low as anyone else in her life did towards her, as Azriel did towards her. Gods, if he made her feel pained, what is his difference from that other male? If she ever told him that he was just like Azriel, Fenrys would have to kill that bastard male first and then kill himself because none of them ever deserved her kindness, her care....her heart. And that wouldn't do. He had to apologize, had to make amends, but how?

You know how, idiot. The place.

But, is she the one? Does she deserve to see that place? To recieve that gift from him? He meant to show that place only and only to his mate, if he ever found them.

Don't be foolish, Fenrys. Show her.

A sudden surge of determination and need took over his senses as Fenrys got up and headed towards his bane of existence's room.

He knocked on the door once, she didn't open.

Twice, she didn't open.

On the third time, the door opened and he was met with a very angry yet adorable looking witchling.

She clearly woke up from some kind of a nap because her hair was a mess, her cheeks were red and her clothes were crumpled. But what made her even cuter was the way she tried to seem intimidating by giving him an angry glare and crossing her arms over her chest.

"What."

That one word brought Fenrys back from his little world as he cleared his throat and told her, "Get changed, I am taking you somewhre."

She was about to protest when he raised his hand, effectively silencing her. "I'm sorry if that sounded like a question. Get changed, I am taking you somewhere."

And with that, Fenrys turned around and left down the hall with a smirk, knowing how curious she was and that in the end, it would win over her other feelings, making her follow him.

Twenty minutes later, he saw her come down, dressed in a simple long sleeved, ankle length, light gold dress that still somehow managed to make her the most attractive being he had ever laid his eyes upon.

She was furious but in the end, her curiosity got the best of her as she got ready while still cursing Fenrys' name and whatever his plans were. But, seeing him so enthralled with her, taking her in from head to toe when she came down the stairs, made y/n feel a level of confidence and power that she had never felt before.

Fenrys himself looked beyond attractive as she took him in. Hair let loose, cascading down to his chest, a simple white tunic and black pants with knee high boots. Yet he still looked so hot and delicious and otherworldly and charming and-

Enough. What's wrong with you??

Y/n reached him and cleared her throat, causing the male to refocus his attention on the reality. He put his palm behind his neck, rubbing it as he smiled a little, "You look....beautiful."

She wanted to thank him, to compliment him in return but, he still had a long explanation to make and she wasn't about to just forgive him this easily.

Fenrys turned towards the doors and said, "Follow me."

And follow him she did. They walked inside the forest, going deeper and deeper with each passing second, making y/n question her choice of wearing a dress. It seemed like hours, sunset already starting, before they reached the apparent location. Multiple rows of vines were hanging from trees, covering the view beyond. Once Fenrys made way for them, they reached an opening.

And y/n let out an audible gasp at what she saw.

Soft, iridescent mist drifted lazily through the air, catching the dappled rays of sunset that filtered down from the canopy above. The ground beneath was carpeted with lush moss that glowed with a faint, silvery luminescence, casting gentle reflections onto the surrounding foliage.

In the center of the glade, a crystalline pool of water shimmers like liquid sapphire, its surface as smooth as glass and. Ethereal blossoms of palest blue and silver grew along the water's edge, their delicate petals unfolding in silent reverence to the magical energies that imbue the glade.

Towering ancient trees with silver-barked trunks encircle the glade, their branches adorned with shimmering leaves that seem to dance with every breath of wind. Ethereal creatures, elusive and radiant, flit among the branches, their forms translucent and their voices a melody that echoes through the glade.

And because it was dusk, the glade took on an otherworldly glow. Fireflies with wings of opalescent hues emerged from hidden alcoves, their gentle bioluminescence creating a constellation of flickering lights that hover above the glade like a canopy of stars.

"I found this place absolutely ruined after the war and transformed into what it is now. No one knows of it's existence. Well, apart from you and me."

Y/n turned her head to look at Fenrys, a little behind her, also looking around as he continued, "I found this place on accident, really. I saw the lake and though everything around it was destroyed, it still shimmered, still called to me. I also felt the immense magical presence still surrounding this place."

He looked up with a serene smile, "The Little Folk also helped me. They recognized me as someone who was worthy enough of helping, and aided me in creating this place. Ever since then, it has just been a secret. A well kept one. And I have been coming here whenever I needed an escape, which seems to be happening more and more nowadays." he finished his explanation with a low chukle.

Y/n's lips trembled as she started to slowly approach him, her voice shaky as she asked, "Why? Why show this place to me then?"

Now standing side by side, right next to the water, he turned to face her, his face becoming serious once more, "Y/n, I am truly so sorry for what I have said to you. I know I may be hard to be around with but I am trying, I am trying and it's for you. Only you. I will be truthful for I do not enjoy lying. I have come to feel some things towards you. A mixture of things, actually. Care, adoration, respect, loyalty. I have come to enjoy your presence in my life, too much actually. And I know I shouldn't because you will leave at some point. You will leave and forget me-"

She shut him up with a kiss. He was startled for a moment but then kissed her back. Her hands came around to his back as he pulled her even closer. After what felt like forever, they pulled back for air, both of them panting heavily as y/n whispered, "I will never forget you, Fenrys."

The second she said that, he pushed back, his eyes going wide, clutching his chest.

He was planning on giving her the gift. The one he had created so many years ago with a silly little hope of ever gifting it to his mate. The special one. But what was happening to him now, made him realize that it wasn't a silly little hope. It was real.

Fenrys suddenly felt that unmistakable bond, that unmistakable golden thread that began woving itself within him. That immediate rush of unexplainable mix of emotions and powers hitting him, making him realize that.....

Y/n, the y/n standing in front of him, was Fenrys' mate.

Oh, fuck.

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