#stick with it this really is a Rhys post

[hang-on-lil-tomato]

The Aquabats and Rhys Darby, Shark Fighters

[onlybeeewrites]

A Dance of Ash and Steel

Requested: No <3

Pairing: Oc!FemElara x ????, platonic!Azriel x oc!Elara

Warnings: blood, gore, violence, cursing, characters being assholes

A/N: Omg??? Bee’s posting again??? Yeah I read the entire ACOTAR series and have been itching to write so I hope you all enjoy! This is my first time writing for and original character so I really hope you all enjoy and please let me know what you think! 

A Dance of Ash and Steel: Next

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

Breathe.

Breathe. 

Breathe.

Breath.

The pain was hard to breathe through. More so than usual. That was saying a lot too considering she liked to believe she had a high pain tolerance. 

But the pain seeped into her bones like rain into the dirt. Soaking into her being and clinging to her bones with every movement. Every breath. Every heartbeat. 

Yes. She had trained for this. Prepared herself mentally for years. Trained to withhold her tongue. Trained to learn to just take it. To be the warrior that she was born for. To follow the instincts and unrest that flowed in her very veins. She was trained to take the pain and power through it before one of three options occurred.

Number one, she somehow finds a way out of there.

Number two, someone somehow realizes she’s been taken and somehow knows where she is to come get her out.

Or number three, death. 

The third wasn’t particularly her favorite option, but between the three choices? It seemed to be one the Cauldron was favoring. 

How long had it been? Weeks? It had to have been that at least. But she couldn’t tell. There was nothing in that Cauldron damned cell that would help her tell, or even hint. The only thing that allowed her to have an idea of time was when the autumn court soldier would come by with her food. Never anything substantial. Just enough food and water to keep her alive. 

She could feel the weakness of it effecting her. She could only a few days in after her first interrogation. It was the classic beating. The threats. Urging her to share what her High Lord has been up to. What her brother had been up to. 

But she didn’t utter a word. She hadn’t spoken a word, not to them. Unlike her smartass brother, Elara always knew when to keep her mouth shut. Though that always seemed to piss them off more. 

But it told her one thing.

Beron was paranoid. 

Why? She was still trying to figure that out. The concussion didn’t help either but that wasn’t the point. It didn’t matter what she knew if she couldn’t get out.

But that was the hard part wasn’t it? Her eyes could barely stay open those days. Exhaustion settling deep into her bones. Her wings, though cut up, they were still in tact, sagging behind her. Her dark hair matted, sticking to her forehead, covered in dirt and grime. 

Cauldron she really needed a bath. And Madja. And Rhys. Mor. Az. Cassian.

It wasn’t unusual for them all to be away for weeks at a time. Whether it be Cassian to the camps or Azriel when he would be away on a spying mission for Rhys. 

A pained breath left her cracked lips, her head rolling forward, her chin resting against her sternum. It had been hours since she had been fed. Almost a day. Maybe a day? 

Her mind was growing more and more cloudy each day. Weaker. None of it was good. The longer she waited. The longer she was held there the more difficult it would be to escape. 

Her hands flexed slightly against the chains that bound them at her sides. The same ones where her emerald green siphons would be. But those were taken too. Everything was taken. Her blades. Her two Illyrian daggers that were always at her waist; gifts from Azriel. And her Illyrian sword, Avisra; her gift from Cassian. 

She wasn’t sure where they were, but she wanted—needed—to get them back before she even thought about escaping.

It was times like this where she really wished she had some of Rhy’s fancy powers. And it was times like this where she hated it, but she felt completely helpless. Weak. And for once in a very long time….hopeless.

“For an Illyrian warrior…” a voice crooned, breaking the silence of the damp cell, and clearing the running ongoing thoughts that ran through Elara’s head, “I’m surprised it only took a few weeks to get you all broken and quiet like this,”

Her hazel eyes dragged their way up. Looking from the floor under her, all the way up to spot Eris. Heirs to the Autumn Court. And she wanted nothing more than to smack that stupid fucking grin on his stupid face.

“C’mon, little bird. Don’t you want to go home? I doubt you want to stay here with me for longer than you need to,” he taunted, walking across the cell to where she was bound to the stone wall. His hands were comfortably tucked in his pockets, his boots echoing off the floor.

Elara just glared at him. Hating him, first of all because she fucking despised the guy. And she didn’t forget what he had done to Mor; who had grown to be like her own sister. And just like Cassian, Elara became incredibly protective. So she gathered up whatever moisture was left in her dry mouth and *spat* at Eris and staring him down.

Eris’ amusement flickered away, like snuffing out a light. Quick and instant. He wiped away the spit before reaching up and grabbing her cheeks with his hand, causing her lips to pucker.

“I’m trying to help you get out of here. If you stopped being a stubborn brat you’d see that.” He growled before gripping her face tighter and letting go with such force, her hair jerked sideways.

“So I’m going to give you this one chance. I’m going to leave the door unlocked. And you’re going to have about….ten minutes before the next guards come for your interrogation. Good luck, little bird,” 

Eris turned on his heel stalking away from the Illyrian female. His expression blank, though Elara couldn’t see it. Though the last thing she saw was a wave of his hand, leaving the door open. 

And the next thing she knew she fell to her knees. Her torn leathers scraping against the cold and dirt stained ground. 

Her eyes widened in disbelief as she pulled her sore arms close to her. Her wrists red and raw. But free.She didn’t think twice after that, stumbling to her feet, she let out a groan as her body screamed in protest. Cuts, bruises, burns littered her skin along with grime and dirt and sweat.

She sure was a sight to behold.

She stretched out her wings, thanking the Mother that they were unharmed. A few cuts here, but nothing that would hinder her ability to fly. Her wings weren’t the biggest. And she may not have been the strongest. But by the Cauldron, she was fast. Faster than her brothers. And being fast was all that she needed.

Tucking her wings then tightly to her back, she waited for her vision to stop swimming before she moved through the dim corridors of the Autumn Court dungeons. Or at least what she assumed it was. 

Though before she could find a way out, she needed a few things. 

She needed her weapons. Her daggers, sword, and siphons. 

Barefoot, clad in torn leathers, she pressed herself against the cold stone walls, her every sense on high alert. The air was thick with smoke and the scent of blood—not hers, not this time. The guards would notice her absence soon when they came around and she needed to be long gone before then.

The hallway opened into a larger chamber, the dim torchlight barely cutting through the darkness. And there, at the far end of the room, she saw them.

Her daggers. Her sword.

Relief and adrenaline surged through her veins as she staggered toward them, ignoring the way her vision swam. 

Almost there.

But then, she stopped.

Something was wrong.

Very wrong.

The metallic scent of blood was stronger here, more pungent. It wasn’t just the lingering stench of violence. But was fresh.

Elara’s hand reached for the hilt of her sword, but she hesitated as her eyes darted around the room. And then she saw them.

The autumn court guards.

All three of them lay sprawled across the floor, their bodies still warm, throats slit cleanly—too cleanly. There was no sign of a struggle. No sound of a fight.

Just silence.

And then—movement.

The shadows stirred before she could react, curling at the edges of the room, slithering toward her like living things. Her body tensed, instinct screaming at her to *run*, but a familiar presence swept over her, dark and comforting all at once.

Elara turned sharply, her heart still hammering from the adrenaline.

Azriel stood at the other end of the room, his siphons glowing faintly, shadows swirling around his boots like a second skin. His scarred hands were relaxed at his sides, but there was a sharpness in his hazel eyes—a fury barely contained.

She exhaled a breath she hadn’t realized she was holding.

“Az.” Her voice was hoarse, relief thick in the single syllable.

His gaze swept over her, assessing, calculating. He didn’t miss the bruises and raw red skin on her wrists, the cut above her brow, the way she swayed slightly as if her body was on the verge of giving out. Her usual tawny skin was now a concerning paler shade.

Then, with a single, slow blink, he said, “Took you long enough.”

Elara huffed a tired laugh, though the sound was laced with exhaustion. Her body now relaxing as she felt the security of her brother, “You could have gotten here sooner.”

Azriel stepped forward, his movements fluid, silent—always so damn silent. “You seemed to have things under control.”

She rolled her eyes, but when she went to grab her daggers, her hands trembled. Azriel saw it, of course he did, but he said nothing. Instead, he reached out, gently pressing one of the blades into her palm. The weight of it was grounding.

Elara tightened her grip around the hilt, her fingers flexing as she forced her breathing to steady. Now wasn’t the time to break. She could do that in the privacy of her own room. Maybe while in the bath. After her report to Rhys. Swallowing she then fastened the siphons to the back of her gloves. 

“Cassian?” she asked after a moment, her voice quiet. Trying to remain steady. Trying to remain the warrior she was trained to be.

“He’s waiting.” Azriel’s expression didn’t change, but there was something softer in the way he spoke, in the way his shadows curled toward her as if offering comfort. “Rhys sent me ahead.”

Elara nodded, swallowing the lump in her throat.

Azriel reached for her sword, fastening it to her back with swift, efficient movements, as if sensing she didn’t have the strength to do it herself.

She should have said thank you. Should have let herself lean into the comfort of his presence. But she only nodded again, steeling herself.

Azriel watched her carefully, then, in that quiet, steady voice of his, he said, “Let’s go home.”

And this time, Elara let out a breath of relief, because home had never sounded so good.

It wasn’t long before she bathed, changing into some comfortable clothes. But her mind kept wonder back to how she got home in the first place. It was almost infuriating that she didn’t escape on her own. No. She wouldn’t have been able to break out of that cell by herself. Not without his help.

Him. Eris. The heir to the autumn court. Went and helped her. Why? She had no idea. And she went over it hundreds of times in her head, almost as if she missed something. Anything, really. Though what stuck out was his last words to her before he left.

“Good luck, little bird,”

~~~~

The night air was cold as Azriel pulled them through the shadows, the tendrils of darkness wrapping around them like a second skin. Elara clenched her jaw, forcing herself to stay upright, but the exhaustion was creeping in, threatening to drag her under. Her body ached, bruises deepening with every breath, but she refused to let it slow her down.

She had fought her way out of that cell. She had survived. She could make it home.

Azriel’s grip on her arm was firm, steady—grounding. The first tingling of comfort she’d felt in weeks. Three weeks maybe? It seemed to have been that long according to what Eris hinted at.

“Almost there,” Azriel murmured, his voice cutting through the stillness between them. But his grip tightened slightly on her, urgent, eager to get her back home. 

She swallowed hard, nodding even though her legs trembled beneath her. Shadow traveling had always left her disoriented. She didn’t do it often, always opting for flying. But after everything she had been through, it felt like her bones were being pulled in a hundred directions at once.

The wind shifted, and then, in an instant, Velaris came into view. The soft glow of the Sidra, the twinkling lights of the city—home.

Elara barely had time to process it before they landed just outside the townhouse. Her knees buckled, her balance slipping, but before she could hit the ground, Azriel’s arms were around her.

“Steady,” he murmured, holding her against him.

She gritted her teeth, frustrated by the weakness in her limbs. “I’m fine.”

Azriel huffed quietly, unimpressed. “You’re barely standing.”

She wanted to argue, but before she could, the door to the townhouse was wrenched open.

Cassian.

His face was a storm of emotion—anger, worry, relief all crashing together as his gaze landed on her.

“Elara.”

She barely had time to brace herself before he was there, his arms wrapping around her tightly. The impact sent a fresh wave of pain through her ribs, but she didn’t care.

She let herself sink into the warmth of her brother’s embrace, let herself breathe for the first time since she had been taken.

“I’m fine,” she murmured against his shoulder.

Cassian pulled back just enough to cup her face, his eyes scanning every bruise, every cut, his jaw tightening. “You are *not* fine.”

Before she could snap back, more figures appeared in the doorway.

Rhys. Mor. Amren. Her family. 

Their eyes were sharp, their worry evident, but Elara could barely focus on them before Cassian was turning on Azriel.

“What happened?” His voice was low, dangerous.

Azriel didn’t flinch. “Autumn Court ambush. She escaped on her own. I tracked her before they could find her again.”

Cassian’s fists clenched at his sides, fury simmering in his hazel eyes. “They’re dead?”

Azriel gave a slow, cold nod. “Every single one. That I saw at least.”

Elara swallowed, watching as Cassian’s shoulders tensed, his breathing heavy. But then he looked back at her, and all the fight drained from his face.

“I should have been there.” His voice was barely more than a whisper.

Elara shook her head. “You were. I just had to find my way back.”

Cassian exhaled sharply, running a hand through his hair before pulling her in again, pressing a kiss to the top of her head.

Then, Mor was there, stepping forward with soft but determined eyes. “Let’s get you inside.”

Elara wanted to protest—wanted to tell them she was fine—but her body betrayed her, her exhaustion catching up all at once.

Azriel’s hand brushed against her back, a silent reassurance, before Cassian lifted her effortlessly into his arms.

She didn’t fight him. Didn’t argue.

Because for the first time in weeks, she was safe.

She was home.

[momolady]

Momolady: 2024 Year End review

Well, here we are, the end of 2024. I think we're all relieved but also terrified to an extent. It's been a rough year, as well as being one of the best of my life. And while I may be on a break, I'm still woorkiing towards making 2025 the year of publish (question mark?). I'm already starting to post long form works on Patreon as serials I hope to work towards as novels for the future. I'm also planning on working on building my horror writing. I have a goal of getting $500 of more support on patreon this year so I can make working towards publishing a full time goal.

But anyways, rather than doing the top performing stories of the year, I'm posting all of them! My top ten will have a small blurb about them and why I loved them. I'll also post my top songs and something special at the end.

Thank you all so much for joining me for another year. My goodness, ya'll have no idea what your support means to me. I cannot thank you all enough.

January

Jasper the Bugbear

Jaxson the Orc

Kerwyn the Fae

Zeru the Plant Monster 

I really love the mix of horror and romance in this one. I would really love to stretch my legs and post more dark romances like this with maybe less happily ever afters. I know that's a huge fight in the romance book community if a story is a romance without a happily ever after. 

Art the Orc

February

Ozren Preview

The Magician’s Assistant 

This is a universe I want to work more in, a world where curses are as commonplace as cussing. I loved the characters and how the lead of the story dealt with the cards she was handed. 

Jasper the Bugbear: Part Two

Lyco the Plant Monster

March

Alcide the Vampire 

Another dark romance I think a lot of people enjoyed. This is also a new universe I would love to write in, which is vampires in space. And yes, before you say anything, it was inspired by Vampire Hunter D, but another story on this list is more inspired by it.

Rhys the Lizardman

April

Author April: Wild Adapter

Rain the Nahual

Author April: War on the Mists

Author April: Sucks 2BU

Mathias the Goblin: Part One

Mathias the Goblin: Part Two

Author’s April: Sleeping Beauty

Author’s April: First Attempt at Smut

May

Goro the Merman

Theron the Minotaur

June

Elazar the Ifrit 

Somerbron Lake: Part One 

July

Somerbron Lake: Part Two 

Somerbron Lake: Part Three 

Somerbron Lake: Part Four 

This story was inspired by several sources, one of them being my mother’s favorite movie, Let’s Scare Jessica to Death. Past longing, repressed emotions, and a sense a suffocation. I think now that Nosferatu has been released, this story really sticks out. 

August

Five Paralangua: Part One

Five Paralangua: Part Two

Five Paralangua: Part Three & Four

Harvey the Orc: Part One

September

Harvey the Orc: Part Two

Chicory the Tiefling: Part Two

Manus the Fae: Part One 

October

Manus the Fae: Part Two 

This twist on the Cinderella fairy tale was so much fun. I loved Manus and I especially loved coming up with the ending.

Butch the Grim Reaper: Part One 

Butch the Grim Reaper: Part Two 

Butch the Grim Reaper: Part Three 

This is probably one of my top stories of all time. I had so much fun writing this and I don’t think I’ve ever felty so creatively fulfilled as I combined some of my most favorite things in the world into one story: 80’s slashers, time travel, death, and open ended endings.

November

Luzas the Orc-Lich: Part One 

Luzas the Orc-Lich: Part Two 

The chemistry between the two leads was so much fun to write. I love good banter, I also love a strong female lead who is also boisterous and a little stupid. Would love to visit this pirate crew again.

Sirion the Vampire 

Yes, this is the one that is extremely based on Vampire Hunter D, specifically Bloodlust. I enjoyed so much writing the lead character and his run for freedom nd self expression. I also love the moodboard which I really wanted to resemble a trans flag.

Magdalene the Succubus: Part One

Magdalene the Succubus: Part Two

December

Magdalene the Succubus: Part Three

Incubus and Succubus Holiday: Part One

Incubus and Succubus Holiday: Part Two

Kirilka the Orc: Part One 

Kirilka the Orc: Part Two 

The banter! Ugh so good. I love writing dialogue above all else, especially when it can be sparkling and witty. The two leads were so fun, but I did really enjoy the side characters and creating the world around them in this one.

What a mix bag of music. Of course Epic took over.

To thank you all, I have a special gift! Ten people will be able to claim two months of membership on my patreon for free! Join as a free member to be able to snatch this reward!

[nobibiname]

Elain’s Soft Power🌸/ ✨different strength✨ and the Cauldron bond

I’ve said this elsewhere but wanted to have a complete post to drive this point home, HOFAS spoilers, you’ve been warned.

Back in CC1&2 we learned that thanks to the Asteri, there’s a lot of obsession about “breeding”, esp among the Fae, on Midgard. And then we learned why: to create the strongest food source for them.

Now in HOFAS, enter Bryce in Prythian, we find out these same Asteri corrupted the cauldron .

So at this point honestly, yeah I was surprised that the majority of the fandom didn’t call out the mating bonds in prythian, and start looking at them more critically. What is the meaning of a mating bond from a corrupted cauldron? What will be the ultimate point of them?

Remember when in ACOMAF Feyre asks Rhys “why not make them mates?” One of the things he says is “… probably to produce the strongest offspring” (paraphrasing)

Strongest for what? the point of the Cauldron mating bonds is breeding, the strongest food for the Asteri. That’s it.

The mating bond is not what the Fae believe it to be. It may have been sacred at some point, but now it’s just the outcome of a magical calculation resulting in highest calories for intergalactic parasites.

I think for this reason it was really important (thematically at least) for Feysand and Nessian to fall in love first. They just “happen” to also have a mating bond. If their relationships mainly hinge on the bond, the romance is diluted. And we have plenty of examples of failed relationships of mates, (Rhys’ parents, Tamlin’s parents). I also want to acknowledge that the Mother’s power is also still there to some extent (we see that when Nesta gives up her powers and gets to keep a bit from a “gentle hand”) , and could have guided those bonds, but it doesn’t change the fact that the main point of the cauldron now is still food for the Asteri.

Lastly this also shows courage in rejecting a Cauldron bond, it’s actually an act of defiance. Asserting your will over your own fate, a “fuck you” to the Asteri and their corrupted manipulation of a sacred object and institution of Fae culture.

And I wonder is this the “different strength” that Elain will exhibit? Rejecting her cauldron bond. I think we’ll find out exactly why she hasn’t yet, and I actually think whatever the reason, that takes strength too. She’s stuck between a lot of willful minds and stubborn powers. Sticking to her guns is probably not easy. But also is this a strength that maybe Feyre and Nesta don’t have? I’m definitely speculating here, but maybe resisting the cauldron’s will like this could be something beyond them?

Elain is heavily foreshadowed to be a Gardner of magic of sorts; cultivating and growing with her magic, rather than fighting. So maybe rather than yielding to the cauldron’s will for her, she might assert her will on the corrupted cauldron and heal it? The ivy around the gates of her mind growing so strong around the iron to be able to crush the iron itself….

It would be in line with both how she’s foreshadowed, and how Feyre sees her. She will still be the gentle dreamer, but strong in her soft power.

I might never have been the biggest fan of the mating bond, (though I acknowledge it’s a staple of the genre) but given what we now canonically know about the history of Prythian, I urge the fandom to view “who you want to be mates” through a different lens. Bc that word truly no longer means what we thought it meant.

[redbleedingrose]

I got a Rhys x chubby reader request in my inbox that I just started working on! Here is a little quote for you all:

"Leaving so soon, my pretty little peach?"

Anyway, my laptop is about to die so I will continue working on it tomorrow and hopefully have it posted asap. I really hope you all like it! I am so out of touch with writing, I feel like this is about to be a huge flop. But thats okay! I love y'all so much and thank you for sticking by me and waiting around on me! It means the literal world.

[im-am-not-a-weenie]

Loved the period comfort hcs!!!!! How do you think our forge husband Dammon would be in this situation?

🍓omg it's been like forever, being an adult is hard. but im finally getting to my inbox🍓

I'm going to include Zevlore and Rolan bc like I love all three of them dearly. shorter than normal but I'm working on a longer fic with these 3

no beta and lots of grammar and spelling errors <3

🍓Dammon

this man is the sweetest, he's so gentle and caring

Doesn't really know what he's doing but is trying his best. he listens to your wants and what you need. hungry? he's ready to make you something or go get whatever you're craving. he makes sure you stay hydrated and offers you water like every hour.

cuddles galore, he'll rub your lower tummy and give you forehead kisses

while spooning, his tail will wrap around you too

"why are you giggling love?" "Dammon you know why" You couldn't help but giggle as his tail lazily swiped along your side. "it's not my fault you're so sensitive

expect soft touches like that the whole night, he'd sit there and play with your hair, maybe even put in a few braids if you let him

would definitely take the day off if you asked him too

🍓Rolan

Rolan would be the type of guy to act like he didn't want to take care of you the phrase "I suppose if I have to" is said so many times

"Rolan I'm fine really" "No no if you're going to keep complaining I might as well do something, it's the only way I'll get some peace and quiet around here"

he kinda knows what he's doing. he has a sister. him and cal took care of Lia when she was cramping so he knows a few things

wouldn't let you out of bed. but would never admit to fussing over you. or loving the cuddles

"I'm just holding you until you go to sleep. I have work to do" Spoiler alert he spends about 30 minutes just watching you sleep. he smiles to himself and brushes hair out of your face. stroking your face lovingly letting out a small chuckle because you subconsciously lent into his hand. he pulls you closer and falls asleep himself

🍓Zevlore

this man definitely knows what he's doing. he's been around for a bit and knows how to treat a person right.

the moment you mention cramps he's drawing you a nice hot bath and making chamomile tea.

so many kisses. on your face, arms, and hands. nowhere goes untouched by his lips. I mean nowhere. this man earned his red stripes (or is it red wings?)

"ew, Zev that's gross" "You could never be gross to me my dear"

gives the best massages. will rub your back or your feet. he just wants to make you feel better. especially during the most uncomfortable time in your life

he holds you tightly against him. whispering sweet things in your ear. "I love you, I love you more than any god. more than the sun and moons and stars. you are mine and I'm never letting go"

you fall asleep on him with a smile. knowing he means every word

HEY! im back! At least I'm trying to be lol. imma try and post a long fic every other week and will do short post like this randomly. or I might not stick to a schedule and disappear for a few months again who knows. anyway

see you later alligators - Rhys 🍓

[elrielbaby]

I find it highly amusing that the same people who ship Elain with a character that she has been uncomfortable around in canon (as well as having absolutely no chemistry with) find ‘red flags’ in the bonus chapter - they call it uncomfortable, disturbing, gross etc.

Elain sticks up for herself in ACOSF, finds her ‘boldness’, yet loses it around aforementioned character. How is that not a red flag?

And I’m sorry the imaginary red flags from the bonus chapter are non existent. You are not reading these books as SJM intended them to be read. We can all have our interpretations of things, but to say that the first half of the Azriel POV is ‘disturbing’ is being wilfully ignorant (and offensive - but that’s a post for another time).

Azriel acts like every other Fae male in SJM’s series.

Where was your outrage when L*cien began growling at Azriel taking Elain into the garden, despite the fact they’d have ONE very uncomfortable conversation at this point?

Where was your outrage for Cassians part of the Nessian bonus chapter? For how Rhys acted with Feyre? For how Rowan acted with Aelin?

For people who claim to be a font of all knowledge when it comes to SJM you really don’t seem to have a clue how she writes her male love interests - or you do, and you’re wilfully misleading people. I don’t know which is worse.

[theladyofbloodshed]

What do you think of the whole Mor/Cassian/Azriel dynamic? In real life it would read to me that she’s worried her friends only care about her because of the possibility of a future relationship and doesn’t want to lose them, but she keeps getting inbetween Cassian and Nesta, which doesn’t make a ton of sense because she could always find a new buffer or make something up? Is she actually into Cassian?

This will probably be a long post.

SJM changes plans. If you look back in tags, Moriel was very much a ship before ACOWAR was released. I posted this before (better quality):

So basically,

Mor wanted to lose her virginity to a great Illyrian warrior so chose cassian a) to ruin her engagement b) she knew he'd be a great warrior c) azriel already had feelings for her

If Moriel was meant to be endgame, I could kind of understand the love triangle. Mor chose Cassian and Azriel tried to talk to her once but she walked away so he pines. He has to realise that he is worthy and she needs to let go of Cassian to have something with Azriel because he'll always compare himself to Cassian.

It wasn't until ACOWAR when Mor tells Feyre she's bi that the ship was sunk, so to speak. Then we have the uncomfortable foot rub scene and then lingerie for solstice. It's meant to push Azriel away, but it only makes him wonder why Cassian is preferred over him.

It makes Mor look like an awful character. She interferes with Cassian and Nesta, but rather than it coming across as her being protective of him, she looks straight up jealous. It's weird to have Cassian giving her foot rubs and exchanging lingerie. It's reinforced by Cassian thinking she's so beautiful it takes his breath away.

The buffer also makes Azriel look like a complete weirdo for being fixated on her for five hundred years. If, as originally planned, they got together then maybe it would be sweet that he loved her for all that time. Now, it's just odd. He's not reading the room. But he's reading that Cassian and Mor are still flirting. Rhys refuses to get involved and tells Feyre not to - but can't somebody take Azriel to the side and say, "look buddy, let it go".

And Mor can't tell them her sexuality. Despite loving them deeply and not being worried about their reaction, she can't tell them. Why? Seems like a good way to emphasise to Azriel she doesn't want him - but then she'll have to deal with the fall out of him pining for 500 years and her not dealing with it sooner - again, Azriel can't read a room apparently despite being a spymaster. Mor's sexuality is her business, but she constantly sticks her nose into the IC's business. She is suddenly Feyre's bestie and needs to know everything. She involves herself with Cassian and Nesta, even from the start after the battle of Adriata when Nesta asks where Cassian is, she's told to keep her forked tongue behind her teeth. So does Mor care about Cassian or is she scared of losing him and having to be honest with Azriel?

It's all so MESSY. I think sjm really wrote herself into a hole with it. Azriel will suddenly get over Mor after 500 years. And she will come out or keep her LI (who will probably be Emerie) a secret instead?

Messy.

Cassian, grow a spine and tell her where to go challenge

[nikethestatue]

Can I ask you how long you've been in the fandom? When did you join? Was it because of Elriel? And how did you become an Elriel?

I joined the fandom in the summer of 2020. I reread the OG trilogy and then I read ACOFAS and I knew that the next book was coming out in early 2021. So I figured that I'd stick around till then.

I only joined to read fanfics and talk about Rhys. :) I was and am a Rhys stan first and foremost. And I've been on Tumblr for various things since 2010 so I was very familiar with it.

I didn't really start posting until like March of 2021, when the shipwar started. I guess I was always an Elriel? LOL. It never even crossed my mind that they wouldn't be endgame.

When I read the end of ACOMAF for the first time, and Elucien happened, I totally remember my own grimace. And I was like 'ew. What? What?" Then in ACOWAR I was like 'phew, I see what you are doing SJM!!!'

And then suddenly this whole Gwyn thing started and I just sat there and went 'huh? what? what Gwyn? what do you mean?"

It just didn't make any sense to me at all.

Still doesn't. Never will.

And that's pretty much it. Did I think back then that I would be here in 2025 talking about dancing shadows and the definition of 'skitter'? Nope.

[londonspirit]

Sarah's Starfury Republic Of Pirates Con Ramblings

Now then… it’s been a whole week, my brain’s more or less functioning again so let’s try and remember, shall we?! 

Just… this is NOT a real con report, I barely remember things that were talked about (although I will attempt to collect posts and such from Bluesky and Discord) but mostly HOW the whole weekend make me feel. If you wanna read about that, knock yourself out. If not, you need to go and find people that posted about it (#SFROP, #AirportCon and #StarfuryPirates seem to be the hashtags used on assorted social media) 

Anyhow, my R and I arrived Thursday afternoon, dropped our stuff at the hotel and went into London for some Christmassy sightseeing (did NOT know you need a ticket for the just opened Winter Wonderland but we got in anyways). It was FREEZING so perfect for a Christmas market. We got back ‘home’ late - and we were the only ones on the bus back to the hotel!!! 

Friday morning started … not as planned. I’d forgotten that I had the event set in my calendar. WITH alarm. So it woke us at SEVEN freaking am when we could’ve slept much longer as things wouldn’t start before the afternoon. 

Well, we were up way too early so we went to hunt for breakfast. I had checked out the area and I knew there was a breakfast cafe only 15 minutes away. The weather was amazing (sunny, blue skies, cold) so we walked. 

Karma is a fucking bitch, but every now and then, she does the right thing. 

While we were wandering, a guy came towards us: blond, bundled up stylishly against the cold, sunglasses on his nose, with not a care in the world. There was something familiar about him. My breath literally hitched. 

“Uhm, R, is that… Mr Darby?” I asked my friend, keeping my voice down as he came closer. 

She nodded carefully, not looking at me. “It is.” 

Trying to keep our shit together and NOT scare the poor man, we kept walking; he kept walking, ignoring us (rightfully so; we weren’t wearing anything pirate related so hopefully he thought we were regular passer-bys). 

And FUCK ME, that man is HOT!! I mean, usually he doesn’t do much for me (I'm a Taika girl!) but that morning? With the sun shining down on him, being all casual and stuff? Reader, my knees were buckling and my heart was RACING!!!  We waited until he was out of earshot (we’re considerate like that!) before we lost our shit - and losing our shit we did!!! There was lots of squealing and giggling and our morning was sooo made (See, waking up too early did have its advantages then!!!) 

Breakfast was nice (The Flying Egg cafe https://maps.app.goo.gl/oyZ3YED3bkq5oamF6 is really good and cost less than hotel breakfast!)  After that we did some shopping (some snacks and drinks to save some money; which has led to me having the most ridiculous bottle opener ever!) and went back, starting to get ready for registration. 

God, this fandom is the LOVELIEST. I went down to the lobby to check how things were going; instantly were met with somebody asking my name and pronouns, giving me a name sticker and explained the newbies how things usually went.  Met some folks I’ve met before, finally met some I only knew online, the usual.  Registration went smoothly, and then we went to find dinner before it was time for the opening ceremony. It still feels weird to actually SEE them, in the flesh, in all their beautiful pirate glory!!! 

It went by quickly, just a few words, hi, happy to be here, bit jetlagged (Rhys and Vico), drove down with his equipment (Kristian), we’re going to have a great time! Barely 10 minutes or so and they were off again, like a gorgeous dream. 

BUT there was the ‘speedating M&G’ right after so we wandered over, loosely sticking with the people from our table. And we ended up with some of those back at another table, waiting for one of them to sit down and talk to us/us talking to them!!! 

We had BARELY any questions, and trying to figure out what to say/ask was hilarious! BUT we made plans for the switching seats so everyone could sit next to them and not only two people. 

I think Kristian came first and it was a bit awkward as we didn’t really know what to talk about. I asked him how he was, somehow nobody has asked him (?) so it went from there, just a bit of chit chat, mostly German swear words, bits of GoT (which he liked that I’ve never watched it O_O)  and stuff like that, and then he was off again already. 

After that we got Rhys which DAMN, up close? Even more devastating, the grey in the stubble was KILLING me (in the very best ways!). He was a tad tired but we got him to talk about his foster cats which was lovely. 

After that we waited for quite a while (lots of Gold tickets and only 5 guests); we were joking they were avoiding us as we didn’t have anything interesting to ask. But then came Nathan (I REALLY don’t know the order anymore, sorry) and he was such a surprise. He straight away asked where everyone was from and EASILY got the conversation going which I had NOT expected! He was amused about the many Germans at the con, told us he’d be here this weekend (Comic Con in Stuttgart). [He was sat next to me, and touched my arm a few times while talking which O_O]. 

For Con and Vico we had people who wanted to sit next to them so we devised a plan to switch seats (we didn’t know who would be next) and when Con came over, people stood and switched and he somehow thought (jokingly) we were running and wanted to race them. 

He started with a dad finger trick to break the ice (which worked beautifully) so I told him a stupid dad joke back (Which bees give milk? … booBEES! I don't know, I heard that just a few days before!) The scolding and eye-roll I got for that was gorgeous! *hehe* That man’s just the sweetest; I don’t really remember what we all talked about but he was sadly gone way too quickly. (My R sat next to him and she was in heaven!!). Oh, and she asked him about theatre and/or musical and the answer was basically that theatre isn't really what he wants to do unless it's the right play and the right director (and even then probably NOT in London which is a shame but yeah...)

Next up: Vico. GUH!!! I fucking LOVE them. Their energy was through the roof and they were talking a mile a minute! What did we talk about? I can’t remember. OH! They loved my earrings (as did a few others) which made me very happy!!! What I do remember (and I begged R before to NOT let me do it) was that I had to gush about Vico’s hair. I'm a hairdresser, and their hair journey from the mohawk to the curly mullet now is just so GAH for me. So yeah, I told them how much I love it and their face fucking LIT UP!!! I mean, I'm passionate about hair but they just fueled that passion and GOD, their eyes are insanely beautiful!! HNGNGGH! (also got touches on the arm so yeah… *heart eyes*) 

(Also, their handler had to remind them thrice that their time was up as they didn’t manage to find an end! Aww.) 

Eventually it was over and everyone floated out, clearly very high on pirate love!!! 

After that there was the party where the music BEFOREHAND was just horrible (more suited to a SPN con than ours) so of course my R went up there and taught them about pirate music!! I'm still laughing about her gesturing passionately while our table watched in awe!! 

We signed Kristian’s massive birthday card (made and passed around by Fyre; I REALLY hope he’s got it!) and went to bed not too late as we had a BUSY Saturday ahead of us and we didn’t want to look like ghosts!! 

So yeah, that was (Thursday and) Friday!! 

(pics from SF's Twitter page)

Saturday morning, getting up, getting ready for photos!! PHOTOS WITH VICO AND CON, cause I KNEW I just had to have these two!!! (auto were included with Gold so I could get these signed; I brought Kristian’s book and we got posters so I could have Rhys sign one of these. Nathan was an extra guest and NOT included which was okay with me.) 

I had two separate outfits, one for my Vico pic, one for Con. I was a bit  worried about timing but it all went super smoothly and quickly so I had time to change. 

Con was first. And set the stage quite Con-style!

“I had fucking coffee. Bring it on!” or something like that when he came out!!! I love that man.

We were pretty much first in queue; I went up to him, still VERY calm and collected which I do NOT know where that came from. (Maybe because they’re not celebrities, they’re fans of the show just as us and it shows!!) He wanted to put his arm around my shoulder when I stepped up and then fucking ASKED if it was okay. Mentally I was screaming. Outwards I was like, sure but I want a hug anyways if that's okay. 

“Sure,” he said and then pulled me against himself so hard I almost stumbled against him (*I* can see that in the pic) and then wrapped his arms around me and my brain went offline. It was over way too soon. I said thank you and wandered off, brain still going eeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeehhhhhhhh! *lol* 

After that we queued for Vico. (What I LOVE about the SF cons (or this one, at least) while you queue you can watch everyone else which was soo fucking lovely. Again, they’re FANS like us and it fucking shows in everything they do!!! 

Once it was my turn with Vico their bright smile almost knocked me back over (esp since apparently they had been up since THREE FREAKING AM for an audition or so; they posted a video). 

“Can I have a hug?” I asked, and they were against me in a heartbeat! And they were the only one I could actually smell. And GOD, they smelled so good. And they’re soo freaking tiny!!! And yet, soo much strength. Of all my pics I love this one soo fucking much. And it shows which I love even more!!! 

After that we were done and sadly had to leave the room. 

Back to the panel room we went, blocking a table for the few lovely people we connected with and just after noon, Con and Nathan took the stage. 

These two together are fucking LETHAL!! It went downhill VERY VERY quickly. I can’t remember shitall, I know my belly hurt from all the laughing, at one point I might have teared up (first of many many more over the weekend) because of Con’s intense plea to look after each other in these times. This cast, I swear. 

There were cakes to bake at knifepoint, Con O’Neill being very very passionate about cheese: he will scold you HARD if you pair it with the wrong everything; Nathan VERY devastated that he had to wait to see Wicked until AFTER the con! And so much more, there’s a lovely person here on Tumblr, who posted about the panels which I will reblog in a sec! 

After these two manics where Vico and Kristian. This was tad more subdued even though Vico was still their bubbling, hyper self. I think there were talk about them loving dragons, music… god, my memory on the actual panels is shit! SORRY! 

Next up was Rhys (solo). He talked about a lot of things but what stuck with me (naturally) was the love and respect he has for Taika and his genius. He said he wished Taika would do cons so he could feel the love just like they did!!! I might have made noises. Rhys would love to work with him again, he’s brilliant… he was praising him a lot and my heart melted!! Their friendship is the most beautiful thing!!! GUH!! 

There was talk about Costa Rica which made the whole room explode with laughter, him talking about his craft, and how very much he still loves Stede and the show. (if anyone has more concrete things, PLEASE TELL ME, my brain’s a sieve. I kept staring at the man, still baffled to actually be in the same room as him!) 

He closed out the panel portion of the day; after that were autographs! And we had decided to get them all on Saturday so we had the Sunday for panels and no need to rush anywhere. (HA!) 

Again, what with being Gold and single numbers on the badge we were there early. I had my pics from earlier with Con and Vico which I wanted signed; Con looked at it and nodded approvingly: ‘That’ll do’, he said a few times; sadly I didn’t have much else to say to him so I thanked him and wandered over to Vico. 

 Ugh, I love them soo much. ‘Look at how CUTE we are’ they said (and wrote on it). And yes, we are. Told them how much i loved the pic, and that I’ll be replacing my DT pic on my socials with ours! Their FACE!! Guh. Seriously, they’re fucking GLOWING from the inside and it’s blinding!!! 

Kristian was next. I had his book; he asked whether I read it (not through yet, started a few weeks ago which he wasn’t too bothered about) and then… he bloody showed me two german words somebody had written down for him (or possibly he himself had found) and wanted to know what they meant. (they were rude words describing people with a lively sexual life)! I mean, i did NOT have teaching Kristian Nairn German words on my bingo card but here we were. Corrected one word as it was written wrong (WHAT?) and tried to explain it - not entirely right- but he was satisfied. His grin was very happy when he said goodbye! *shakes head* This cast, I swear. 

I had Rhys sign one of the posters as I didn’t have anything else with me. And can I tell you, being smirked and fucking WINKED at, does things to you you’re not ready for!!!! HNGNGGN!!! (which def sold me on making CHOICES the next  morning!)  I know I thanked them all for coming over and hoped they were enjoying the con and themselves so not being a total idiot, I guess *hehe*

After that we needed food and got ready for the Cosplay contest later that evening. 

The WHOLE DAMN CAST came out to judge it!!! ALL OF THEM! 

And GOD, this fandom is soo fucking talented!!! The costumes, the CARE people put into it, the blood, sweat and tears… it’s INSANE!! 

The deserved winner was wearing coat that depicted ALL OF SEASON 1!! They went and added ALL THE TINY DETAILS onto it… it‘s madness and the most beautiful thing I’ve ever seen. Also, TEARS because FUCK ME, having the the creator and cast talk about it and the love for our show and start choking on tears is NOT helping me stay calm!!! 

After that, more party which we did since Kristian was dj’ing and Vico was dancing their little heart out until 11 or so (Nathan was also still there). We stayed a bit longer once they’ve left as we didn’t have much going on on Sunday… 

… or so I thought!!! 

Sunday morning started quiet with a late alarm as only R had things happening before the panels. (And the morning photos had been pushed back half an hour anyways!)  We went for breakfast… and somewhere between coffee and cornflakes I was like ‘I cannot leave here with only two pictures when there’s FIVE cast members here, can I?!’ S was NOT helping and soon we were ordering pics, racing back to paint a face on and then we were queueing again for more photos!!! 

Nathan was first and I was the 2nd in line and he was tired *lol* So that one’s a bit boring! 

Kristian remembered a) my name and b) that I was German so he greeted me with ‘Guten Morgen’ which was lovely, and I love that we’re both a tad unhinged in the pic from the giggling! 

And then Rhys. I swear that man wants to kill  me with that casual unexpected HOTNESS. That morning he was wearing what he was wearing and I WAS NOT READY!! *breathes heavily* But then again, you never are so yeah. 

Anyhow, I knew I didn’t want an ordinary pic with him, and was pondering what pose to do. And somehow a ‘back to back’ felt like the right choice. R wanted to do the same so once she was done and he wanted to turn back again, I was like ‘nah, just stay like that, I want the same’ which made him smile. So yeah, I REALLY like that picture!!! *sighs happily* 

We were still lingering about, just watching them ‘work’, waiting for our new friends but eventually we had to leave! I saw some wonderful pics done (I think this particular one was take the day before:  everyone looking everywhere BUT the camera, which was hilarious!) 

After that we went back into the main hall only to find our new friends having saved us spaces at the table (that’s why I LOVE those cons, you just find YOUR people!) 

First panel was Vico and Nathan which I remember shit all about!!! *hides* I can’t for the life of me remember any specifics. 

I'm pretty sure there were some Wicked stings which made Nathan wail; oh and I think that was the one where the poor man disclosed that he hates CRABS which naturally made Vico tease him merciless about it!!! *lol* According to Discord there was also talk about carol singers in everywhere else and then in PR which apparently is them yelling at people in their houses until they let them in (Vico REALLY needs to do more comedy, their timing is fucking IMPECCABLE!!) Also, audio work (which reminds me I REALLY need to check that out, I need some Vico readings in my car!) 

After that: Rhys and Con. That was a pairing I was looking forward to a LOT as they’re usually not put together in a one on one. And BOY was that a hoot!!! 

Con his grumpy lovely self, Rhys a bit less jetlagged (yet still annoyed at the tech people chattering backstage when he’s trying to listen to questions; they stopped talking after that and he was fine.) 

KEVIN!!!

It’s THE running gag already (Rhys said it’d be dead in a week, Con doubted that,, and he’ll win THAT bet: there’s stickers and SHIRTS already which will make an appearance at random Rhys gigs next year so yeah…) It’s got something to do with Con assuming there just has to be a sex tape with Rhys (no idea HOW he got there) and that it had to be with someone named Kevin (Rosie’s name fell a few times too; it was CHAOS I tell ya!) and I think it was Rhys who yelled ‘Kevin, give me the tape(s)’!!! Which is now a thing and I’ll be randomly yell that at pirates and/or Kevin’s I will cross paths with in the future!!! It was fucking hysterical and I'm still giggling just thinking about it! 

Rhys did take a fake phonecall with his agent, about Star Trek and Star Wars, about cities to visit in Japan and Con was cackling in the most delightful way while Rhys looked very smug about making us all laugh. 

Their back and forth was AMAZING; for some reason that surprised me, but they’re soo good together (another reason why I'm sad there's not more!) I think there was a dinosaur question in there too; the hour was over way too fast, I could’ve listened to them so ages. But R and I had tickets for Con’s fan meet so we left a bit early eben though the man in question was still on stage (which makes me sad because apparently we missed that ‘Izzy wouldn’t officiate Ed’s and Stede’d wedding, he’d rather watch them fuck.’ EXCUSE YOU?!?!? (and yes, i'm pretty damn sure there’s another Steddyhand fic in the making for me if I can find the energy to write again)  

So yeah, Fan Meet. (I bought it as a present for R in case she’d miss out; she did on the Saturday one; and it was planned as a gift but she bought one herself in time so I went along; what a hardship! *grins*) 

About 20 of us in a room, with one Con O’Neill. Oh, that man. The sweetest grumpiest man I’ve ever loved! He’s sooo fucking kind and lovely; loves his dog desperately; is in fact married (which we assumed but it was nice that he eventually got tired of trying to stick with ‘partner’ and just switched to ‘husband’ - my heart soared at that.) Fyre did a lovely write up of that one, so I’ll link to that. (R asked the last q about Cooper and my heart is still aching for him!) 

We floated back out once it was over and back into the main hall where Nathan was Kristian’s guest for WJW. And no, I don’t remember one bloody thing about it, sorry! 

Hm, when did Sean announced the gifted pic? Was it before the first panel? Anyways, since basically all pics and autos were done on Saturday, everyone got gifted one of the group pics and we ALL could get them signed: Gold even WITH Nathan. FOR FREE!! (So yeah, not one bad word about SF - they’re not perfect, I know that, and Sean’s not the most people'y person but that was a VERY nice thing!) 

So yeah, after the last panel back to the auto room we went… where we would stay for the next 2 hours or so, waiting our turn because especially Con and Vico took their time chatting. 

I didn’t mind one bit; I could watch them for hours; we chatted with fellow crew and I personally had the most wonderful time. 

I'm now the very proud owner of a signed pic, got to talk a bit more to them all (gushing to Vico some more about their hair) and in general got way more for my money then I could’ve ever hoped!!! 

Once we emerged we were famished and went for food before it was back into the main hall for the Closing. 

And once again, this cast is the most magical out there!!! Everyone said a little bit, most of them told us to stick together, look after each other in these hard times ['FUCK 'EM' - Con O'Neill about everyone who wants to fuck with us!] and were the most beautiful souls out there. I teared up more than once and barely kept myself from just wailing loudly! Such wonderful people who love our little show almost more than we do. *sighs* 

The room was so full of love and joy and happiness. And sadness, yeah but there was one last party to go to. Which we did. Vico came out as well although they stayed in the foyer, just chatting to people and from what I’ve heard it was wonderful for everyone. 

We went to bed rather early as we still had to pack because we had to leave rather early. 

Goodbyes were said, hugs were hugged and off we went. 

Now it’s been over a week, and im still not really back in the real world. It still feels surreal to have these memories, have the pics and autos, have all the AMAZING gifts people handed out which I will treasure massively. 

Sadly we already know that this was a one off (which makes me unbelievably glad we went) so I will always have the most incredible memories of this wet and windy weekend in November in a hotel full of pirates and queer joy and happiness. Which will stick with me even more than meeting the cast: seeing everyone just be their beautiful unique self, without fear, without having to hide themselves away, be loud and proud and as queer and diverse as they can be!!! EVERYONE understood, everyone cared and GOD, isn’t that the most amazing thing? 

That Jenkins' little show was able to do this?! One of the many many reasons I fucking adore this show and everyone involved!!! 

So yeah, that’s it. Probably the longest I’ve written about an event I’ve been to; as I said, it’s more about feelings than proper report but I’d like to have that here. And if you’ve read it all, CONGRATULATIONS, you deserve ALL THE COOKIES for sticking with my insane ramblings! 

#CrewForLife has never been truer than with this show and its beautiful people!!! 

[summerlinenss]

I don't know, maybe it's just me but Taika's fans (not just Ed's fans) seems like practically left OFMD fandom. The fandom only supports Darby out of all the actors. Any appearance of him on the red carpet and people go crazy. Any poll - again he gets the biggest support. Taika's not noticed or deliberately ignored. No one cares about his new projects or appearances on the red carpet in this fandom. Almost no one in the fandom even congratulated him on his birthday... He appears in the thread for their discussion only when they want to judge him (for the cancellation of the third season for example). Taika Waititi in this fandom exists ONLY in connection with Darby. He OUGHT to make We Are Wolves because their beloved Rhys needs it. TBH I can't even look at their joint photos anymore because of it. Again Taika appears on my TL only when Rhys is around. I won't even mention Con! Rhys is the only one who needs support in this fandom, who is pitied and loved. Taika apparently doesn't deserve it because he always wears the mask of a confident guy. In any case, I hope Taika just continues to quietly pursue new projects. Yes, Ed will probably remain his brightest and best role and we are unlikely to see him in leading roles (only small cameos) in the near future but we need to move on. Although of course he gets hate here much less than in Marvel fandom. Some ppl here even love him. Thanks for that, I suppose.

…i hope assume this is bait but regardless, yes, i think it is just you, anon. i don’t think any of what you’re saying is fair or accurate, and it’s actually pretty rude and disrespectful.

i can tell this is prompted by the photos from the red carpet of his new film today, but claiming rhys is the only cast member to get (and need) any support from the fandom is a massive exaggeration and blatantly untrue. one of the best things about this fandom is that everyone supports the cast & crew’s other projects, from samba’s new film to nathan’s play to rachel’s directorial debut (and they all support each other, as well).

going off that, this is the first time rhys has ever played the lead role in a tv series, and that was mostly because of taika. no one is demanding for we’re wolves to be made because rhys “needs it,” they’re hoping for a sequel they’ve been anticipating for years to finally be made (and yes, rhys getting another leading role will be nice). rhys deserves love and praise just as much as taika does. they’re our co-leads. and i hate to break it to you but they’re best friends + collaborators going on 30 (?) years now, so he’s not going anywhere from taika’s life or work any time soon.

frankly, the real reason most fans don’t explicitly talk about taika as much anymore is because they’re afraid of literally being harassed. it has nothing to do with not caring about him, but it gets exhausting when you can’t even write his name in a post without people sending you awful false accusations and graphic death threats towards him. but many people initially took interest in ofmd because they love taika’s work and heard of his involvement (i’m one of them). and many of us still vocally love and stick up for him.

i feel like this is an issue of needing to curate your tl better, honestly. find and engage with the people who post what you want to see, block and mute those who post what you don’t. and if it bothers you that other people talk so much about the leading man of their favourite show, i don’t really know how to help you with that.

[zoyaofthegardvn]

Hey, doll :)

I know you are currently drowning in requests, but I wanted to ask if I could request an angsty mor x reader. However, if someone has already asked something like that just disregard this one xx

ILY 🌺

New Friends, Old Insecurities (1)

A/N: Yes yes yes! I love writing angst to fluff stuff! Thanks so much for the request, anon! :) This will be divided into two parts!

CW: None! But this is pure angst, so the fluff isn't til I write a part 2!

Update: Part 2 is now posted! Read it here!

---

You sighed as you watched Emerie and Mor spar, taking a seat off to the side so that you could finish up the work you'd brought along with you. You decided to come today because you've been missing your mate, but it's clear that you won't be receiving any of her attention today like you so desperately craved.

Ever since Nesta had become best friends with Gwyn and Emerie, they'd become close to everyone in the Night Court. In fact, you'd grown especially fond of Gwyn, and now considered her one of your dearest friends. Emerie and Mor had clicked, and their friendship had taken off fast. You were happy that Mor was making more friends, especially female friends as she'd spent so long just with Rhys, Cassian, and Azriel. But, you were, in fact, jealous.

You tried not to be. Really. But it was a deep insecurity of yours, that Mor would find someone better and leave you. She was just so bold, so confident, so commanding and brave. And so was Emerie. You were reserved, and quiet. You weren't a warrior like Mor, sticking to more intellectual pursuits. You didn't like to party, and you never had any interest in learning a sword. You had always wondered if Mor wished she'd been mated to anyone but you, but for the most part, you were able to look past the insecurities, as your relationship with her was loving and perfect.

But she was spending so much time with Emerie. They'd train together even when the Valkyries weren't, they'd go to Emerie's shop and talk weapons for hours, they'd patrol the camps as a pair and often sat together to talk about anything and everything. It'd been weeks of this, and though it was you that Mor came home to every night, you that she made love to, you that she said she loved, you genuinely had your doubts.

You were interrupted from your thoughts when someone came to stand in front of you. Looking up, you're greeted with Gwyn's kind smile.

"Hey," she says, hand over her eyes to shield from the sun.

"Hey," you respond, but your heart isn't in it.

Gwyn looks back over her shoulder, to where Mor and Emerie are laughing as they take a water break, and she looks back to you with concern in her eyes.

"S'fine," you shrug, a bit embarrassed that others had began to notice your mate's affections for another female.

Gwyn shakes her head. "It's not," she says, reaching her hand out to grab your own. She pulls you up and places a hand on your shoulder. "I'm done for the day, how about we go into town before dinner? We could go to the bookstore?"

You glance behind her, where Mor hasn't even turned to look at you or made her way over to say hello, and then you nod. "Yes, I think I'd quite like that."

---

"She adores you, Y/N, I think she's just forgotten how it's like to make a new, true friend, you know?" Gwyn says, taking a sip from the hot tea she'd ordered from the bookstore cafe.

Your eyes roam the shelves in the Fantasy section, your iced coffee clutched in your hand. "I never see her anymore, and when I do, it's when we're getting ready for bed, or she's about to leave in the morning, or I see her when we're all in a group. And even then, it's like she's not even with me."

Gwyn hums, then grabs a book with an emerald green cover, a dragon illustrated on the front. She flips it over to skim the back. "It is pretty shitty, I'm not denying that. But I don't believe it's because she loves you any less than she always has."

You shrug. "I don't know what to do anymore. The only time it even feels like we're in a relationship is when she wants to have sex."

Gwyn's head snaps up. "That's just wrong! I'm sorry she's making you feel this way. You deserve better. Have you tried talking to her about it?"

You shake your head, and try to stop the tears welling in your eyes. "No, I haven't. I don't know how."

Gwyn reaches out and rubs your arm gently. "You're one of my best friends, Y/N, we'll figure it out together."

You smile at her, a pure, genuine smile, something you hadn't done in weeks. "Thank you, Gwyn."

She returns the affection, then hands you the book she'd pulled. "This sounds like something you'd enjoy."

---

You and Gwyn spent hours at the bookstore, browsing and reading. Gwyn had been right, the book she'd found was exactly what you enjoyed, and you two read your new books, hers being an obscene romance title, for a while at an outdoor table, sipping your drinks and sharing a few slices of lemon cake.

You two also discussed how you'd confront Mor, and when. It was decided that you'd ask her about it tonight, before bed. You'd remain calm, and you'd try not to cry. You would avoid an argument, and you'd explain how you'd feel. It was a good plan. A solid one, that you hoped would work.

You two decided to leave as the sun began to set, knowing you'd be late for dinner at this rate, but you wouldn't miss it entirely.

You could hear your friends laughing and drinking as you arrived back at the house, and as you and Gwyn slipped your shoes off, you heard Cassian call, "There they are!" before him and Azriel came into the hallway.

Azriel smiled at Gwyn, bending to plant a sweet kiss to her lips before pulling her along to the dining room, where a full meal awaited her. You grinned at them, beyond excited that they'd finally accepted their mating bond.

Cassian clapped you on the back, smelling strongly of wine, and pushed you into the room as well. Instantly, your eyes fell to Mor. She was sat next to Emerie, who was sat in the seat you usually occupied. Instantly, your smile vanished. Gwyn met your gaze and rolled her eyes, shrugging, as if to say, "Screw them."

Your lower lip trembled at the small betrayal, but you swore to yourself that you weren't going to cry. Rather than take a seat at the table, you made your way to the kitchen to grab a glass of wine.

As you poured, you heard the door swing open behind you, but you didn't care enough to look.

"Where've you been today?" Mor asks, curiosity lacing her tone. Usually, you told Mor about your every move. Mostly because she worried when she didn't know where you were, and you liked the idea of someone caring about what you were doing.

You still didn't turn around, filling your glass nearly to the brim before setting the bottle down and taking a deep sip.

"I went to town," is your curt reply, cold and to the point.

You hear her take a few more steps towards you, but before she can reach you, you spin away from her and head towards the door, straight back to the dining room where you take an empty seat beside Gwyn, across the table and on the other end from where Mor and Emerie have taken seats.

Mor enters shortly after, looking confused, and she stares at you a long while when she notices that you'd sat as far from her as possible. You refuse to make eye contact, instead, you focus on making yourself a plate of the dinner Feyre and Elain had made. It smelled divine, and you were starved.

Conversation remained light, and mostly, you could tune out Emerie and Mor's voices, whatever conversation they were having. Gwyn, bless her, spoke to you nearly the entire time. She was a great friend, and a welcomed distraction.

When everyone began to clear their plates and put stuff away, you instantly went to the door after cleaning your mess. Usually, you and Mor would hang out for a while, then make your way home together. Without fail, nighttime was reserved for one another.

You waited by the door for a while, growing impatient and nearly ready to just leave Mor behind and wait for her at home, when she came around the corner.

"Hey," she says, furrowing her eyebrows at the sight of you all ready to leave.

"Are you ready?" Is how you respond, again, cold and to the point.

Mor rolls her eyes, confused and a bit agitated. "Well, actually, Emerie wants me to come to the shop tonight and work with her, I just wanted to let you know."

Cold dread washes over your body, your heart dropping. Once again, Mor is choosing Emerie over you, and once again, you're convinced that she wishes Emerie was her mate and not you.

"Are you serious right now?" You whisper, voice angry and brittle.

Mor says nothing, just looks at you with a questioning glare.

You laugh, humorless and bitter. You throw your hands up. "Well, Mor, you just have the most fun, and how about you stay there tonight, since you're so fond of her, hmm?"

So much for not starting an argument.

Mor recoils. "Excuse me?" she grits out, beyond offended.

"You heard me. Stay with her tonight, let's stop pretending like you don't prefer her to me," you spit, your voiced hushed as you're aware of all of your friends just in the next room over.

Mor shakes her head. "You cannot be serious right now," she glares at you like you've gone mad. "So, you're jealous?" she asks, and you don't respond. She scoffs, "I thought you were better than that."

And that, to you, is the nail in the coffin. You can't help the tears that well and spill over your cheeks. You look at her, you shake your head in disappointment, then you pull open the front door and leave.

---

You made it back home in record time, in case Mor did decide to come home, you didn't really want to face her. You slam the front door shut behind you, and in the privacy of your living room, you let loose a sob.

For weeks she'd been neglecting you, ditching you, spending more time with Emerie than her own mate. Her wife. She'd started giving the time of her day always dedicated to you, to someone else. She was never home. She hardly acknowledged whenever you were in the same place as her, and when she was home, it was to have sex, then sleep, then repeat. It hurt. And you couldn't take it anymore. You could feel the bond pulled taut between the two of you, and you closed yourself off from it entirely so that you could try to forget it even existed.

You're in your bedroom, still crying, when you hear the front door open. Mor.

She calls your name, sounding beyond frustrated. When she can't find you anywhere, she goes upstairs, and throws open the bedroom door.

When she barges in, her eyes land on your form, sat on the bed, head in your hands.

"What the fuck has gotten into you?"

Your head shoots up. "Me? What's gotten into me? I'm not the one falling in love with another woman!" Your voice is shaky, and your hands tremble as you take Mor in, her hands on her hips as she paces the room.

"Are you nuts? Emerie is my friend! I cannot believe you're acting like this out of jealousy!" She shakes her head like she's disappointed, like she's scolding a child for bad behavior.

You stand up, but you don't approach her. "And what about your mate?!" you roar, pointing a finger at her. "What about the female you married, the female you never fucking see anymore? Huh?"

Mor looks taken aback by your sudden shift from sadness to rage. "We've been bus-"

"DON'T! Don't give me that shit!" You bring a hand up to wipe furiously at the tears on your cheeks. "You're the one that's been busy with another female, I've been here, the whole fucking time, waiting for my mate to act like she's still in love with me!"

Mor flinches like she's been struck. "You can't be serious! Of course I'm in love with you Y/N, and I have seen you, every night I come home an-"

"And you fuck me then go to sleep, so you can wake up and see Emerie again." You spit, knowing it's a low blow, but that it's also true, and a cruel part of you wants to hurt her the way she's been hurting you.

Mor pales, her jaw clenches and her hands begin to sake with barely controlled anger. "We have never, ever, just fucked, and you know that. How dare you? How dare you act like every time we're together it doesn't mean something more than that?" Her voice cracks at the end, and it surprises you, that she'd start crying over this too.

"Do you think about her when we have sex?" You know you're just antagonizing her, but truly, you're convinced that you're not the female she's in love with anymore.

Mor's eyes widen, and she snarls before marching towards you. "Don't you ever fucking say something like that again! I have never not shown you that I'm in love with you!" She's in your face, and her angry tears are spilling from her eyes.

You push past her and make your way to the closet door, needing to put distance between the two of you.

"No, you've just started spending your entire days and evenings with her, only coming home to have sex with me then leave before I wake up. You've only been dedicating your time spent with me to her and her workshop, our breakfast dates to training sessions with her. You've been neglecting to ask me about my day and how I've been so that you can tell me all about your day with her. You've just been ignoring me when I'm in the same room as you two, because you're clearly having too much fun with her to be bothered. And you've started giving her my seat at the dinner table, because rather than find out where I am, you'd rather have her fill my place."

Mor's dead silent, staring at you from across the room. Her tears are still dripping, her hand is clenched into a fist and her other hand has come up to cover her mouth.

"All I've wanted these past few weeks is your attention. Your love. And no matter what I do, I can't seem to get it. But... but Emerie has no problem." You pause and take a deep breath, trying to steady your voice. "So, no, Mor. Maybe you've not exactly shown me that you're not in love with me, but you have shown me that you're falling in love with someone else."

She chokes on a sob. "No, Gods, no, baby. No. Never could I love anyone else."

You're crying again, and you choke on a sob mixed with a bitter laugh. "I-I think that you want to believe that. Mor, I've always known that I'm not right for you, mates or not, I think you know it too."

You turn and open the closet door, entering the small space and grabbing one of your larger bags. Mor walks in after you.

"T-That is not fucking true!" She blubbers, heaving deep breaths as she watches you pack some of your clothes.

"B-Baby, s-stop," she tries to plead, but you ignore her, and shake her hand off when she tries to grab your arm. You've just been grabbing things at random, but you need to get out of this house, now, so you can only hope that you've grabbed enough pants, shirts, dresses, and pairs of bras and underwear to actually last you a while.

You storm out of the closet and head into the bathroom to grab toiletries. Again, you grab at random, hardly able to see through your tears. And, of course, Mor follows.

"Y/N, p-please stop, we can talk about this, plea-"

You whirl around. "I've said all I needed to say! I'm done, Mor. I'm done."

Mor cries harder, looking down at the floor in utter devastation. The sound of her sobs breaks your heart even more than it already has, and you resist the urge to comfort her, to tell her it's okay, that you two can move on.

Reentering the bedroom, you throw the bag on the bed so that you can zip it up. Mor trails after you, and watches as the love of her life gets ready to leave her.

"Baby, please, I-I love you, so fucking much. I'm sorry, I-I'm so, so sorry," she can hardly get it out from how hard she's crying, and you know that if you turn around, you'll break. So you focus on sliding your bag up your arm and putting your shoes on. When you're ready, you make for the bedroom door, and you practically run down the stairs, eager to get away from the heartbreak tainting the house that was meant to be your home.

Again, Mor grabs your arm before you can open the front door. "Please don't leave, let me make this right," her voice is a whisper, muffled from the congestion caused by her crying.

You close your eyes, you don't turn to look at her. "I love you, Mor, I always will," you hear Mor's breath catch as she waits for you to finish, as she hopes that you'll relent, that you'll put the bag down and take her into your arms and let her explain and apologize and let her change so that she never hurts you again. But you meant what you said, when you told her that you couldn't do it anymore. "But I'm done. I-I'm sorry."

And with that, you're ripping the door open, and leaving into the night.

---

A/N: Whew! That was angsty! Also, just wanna add, I love Emerie! I tried to not make her sound like a female trying to take Mor away from reader, but she is the source of the issue here. Just please know that my characterization of her is not book accurate and was changed for the sake of a fight fic, I love Emerie a lot!

[rosanna-writer]

for the fic writer asks!! K, M, V, and Z 🩷

(love love love your fics!!!)

hi anon, thank you!!!

K:  Do you have a guilty pleasures in fic (reading or writing)? Hmm...this one is a hard one because I'm mostly here to have fun, and my taste often leans towards things that are a bit bonkers/silly. So I'm always a little like, "is it really a guilty pleasure if we're being cheesy on purpose?" But I love all the soulmate identifying mark tropes, "soulmate's injuries appear on your skin," "can't see color until you meet your soulmate," "tattoo of your soulmate's first words appear at birth" etc etc etc

M: What’s the weirdest AU scenario you’ve ever come up with?  Did it turn into a story? One of my greatest joys in fandom is taking something I goofed about with friends and turning it into a fic, so yes, my weirdest AUs have def become stories! Goatsand and that temperature fic both came into the world that way <3

(I also can't mention those fics without shouting out a few others that are not by me but are the result of Being A Goof: Lavender Haze by @thesistersarcheron, birds of a feather (we should stick together) by @belabellissima, and the tragic story of the vienna sausage by @itsthedoodle)

V: Are there certain comments you’ve received on your stories that have stuck with you? I've spent a lot of time thinking about recovery and what that looks like while writing we said hello. Everything that Rhys and Feyre go through Under the Mountain is so enormous, and I wanted to do it justice. There are comparatively few fics that explore what Rhys and Feyre healing together would actually look like (though A Court of Faded Dreams by @the-lonelybarricade immediately comes to mind, and LB is legend-fucking-dary for a reason <3), and I think that's because tackling it feels intimidating as an author. So when a commenter told me one of the post-UtM chapters helped them re-live the sense of hope from moment they'd realized their antidepressants kicked in, it meant a lot to me—not only because that's such a vulnerable thing to say and I treasure the fact that they felt safe enough to say it in my comments section, but because it reassured me that I was handling some pretty heavy stuff well in that fic. It still really blows my mind that anything I've written connected to someone on that level.

Z: already answered here <3

[themusingsofacurlyhairednerd]

I just want you to know, I’m eating up “Love and War” and your Rhys fics in general.

Sadly, Rhys doesn’t get a lot of love on this app in fan fiction and I get so happy when you post the vamp! Rhys and the “love and war” parts.

I just wanna bite into him, lovingly

Hope you’re doing well and taking care of yourself sweetheart💜💜

This made my day!! 🫶🏻 I’m so glad you’re enjoying them! Rhys really is my comfort character and I figured if I couldn’t find fics to read about him then I might as well write them myself 😂

More parts of Love and War and the Vamp!Rhys will be coming soon, I’m trying to get myself on a schedule to post more regularly, ‘cause I know I’m all over the place 😅 Thank you for sticking with me through the madness 🫶🏻

[ennawrite]

Thanks for the tag @sonics-atelier (& someone else but i can’t find the post😭)!!

Answer the questions below & tag whoever you want, or make it an open tag!!

Who's your favourite ACOTAR character?

Nesta & Lucien. Tamlin is at the top as well :)

Who's your least favourite character?

Amren. She is not interesting to me at all. I can forgive a lot but I draw the line at boring characters.

Say something nice about your least favourite character.

I think she could be a cool character but SJM hasn’t given us much in regards to the IC, even though they’ve been part of the series since the second book. Maybe she can rectify that in the next few books but I’m losing hope, especially after HOFAS🤷‍♀️

Who's your favourite High Lord? (If you picked one for your fav character, then who's your second fav!)

I absolutely adore Tarquin. I think he has the potential to be a really good HL, especially since the bar is so low😭

Favourite MINOR character?

Probably Jurian, if he counts as a minor character lol. The Bone Carver too, though his death was very anticlimactic for being a DEATH god lmao

Favourite ship? (Crackships included!)

Tamsand, Azris, Targwyn when it comes to crackships. Elucien for real ships!!

Favourite court and why?

I loveee the beach so I love the Summer Court, I feel like it’d be so nice there. I also really like Tarquin & Cresseida and I just know they’d be so fun to party with

Make up a brand new court RIGHT NOW, NO PREP JUST VIBES.

I’m making a court for the girlies, gays & theys. No straight men allowed.

What relationship would you have wanted to see more of in the books?

I wanna see more of Tamlin & Rhys rectifying their past friendship. I would also like to see Lucien/Eris & their mother interacting.

What's your unpopular opinion?

I don’t really LOVE any of the mating pairs we’ve gotten so far, but I’m still a ride or die for Elucien. But also, I loved the idea of feysand & nessian until they actually got together and now I’m doubting SJM’s ability to write a good, healthy romantic relationship. Which is a bit ironic.

What's your favourite headcanon/fan canon?

That Tamlin & Rhys had a brief, violently passionate love affair hundreds of years ago and that’s why there’s so much tension between them (outside of the family murders lol). On the flip side, I also like the idea of Tamlin having a romantic relationship with Rhys’s sister and that she didn’t really, but escaped through the Starlight pool w/ her mother and Tamlin glamoured random heads to look like theirs. That HC gives me peace because it actually utilizes the magical element in these books lmao

If you were swept away to Prythian, what's ONE thing you would want to do?

Oh baby I’m going to all of the Soltice parties. Especially in Spring & Summer. I’m avoiding all the warnings and heading straight to the faerie wine. And then I’m gonna stick realllll close to Tamlin during Calanmai 😏

If you could have ONE faerie ability seen in the books, which would it be?

Ooh probably shapeshifting. I know we haven’t seen too much of it from Tamlin or Feyre (which is a shame) but Lysandra from ToG made it seem so badass. I love it. Also, winnowing sounds amazing.

Again, I’m late to the party so consider this an obligatory tag to YOU if you haven’t done this yet :)

[bookofmirth]

I read your post:

https://www.tumblr.com/bookofmirth/646547823980101632/everyone-is-forgetting-this-very-important-thing

And I think this dynamic, Az & Gwyn training each other, would be interesting. They’re both competitive and Gwyn did actually show some spy qualities in the Blood Rite. I could see Gwyn becoming comfortable around male touch this way. And in Silver Flames, I can’t remember which chapter, I believe Azriel said Gwyn wanted dagger handling lessons and he gave them to her. Idk if it was just them or other Priestesses, but…

“Which to me means that Az isn't going to train Gwyn, they are going to train each other. He will train her on Illyrian techniques and she will train him on Valkyrie techniques and I just think that's really sexy of them to be able to train each other.”

Gwynriel are going to be that battle couple that wipes blood off of each other’s faces. I honestly want a scene where Az tries to show Gwyn something, but she does it better and kinda hands him his ass. I feel like she wouldn’t be afraid to call him out and walk on eggshells around him. Someone, other than Rhys, needs to.

People think that a gwynriel book would be acosf (redux) but no? Gwyn is already Corinthian, and so is Azriel. Any training that happens would be on equal footing, not master/student. I'm rereading acosf and the idea that Gwyn (and Emerie, and all the other Valkyries) would be where Nesta was, barely able to plank for 30 seconds, is laughable. They've been training, babes! The Valkyries, especially Nesta, Emerie, and Gwyn, don't need Intro to Fighting With Swords 101.

If anything, Gwyn and Emerie and Nesta will bring their own lessons to the Illyrians. They will continue training because Cassian and Azriel said that they will do so, to correct any mistakes the women made in the Blood Rite, but really - one, there aren't many mistakes when they WON the thing, and two, training is a constant presence in Cassian and Azriel's lives. They don't just get ripped and it sticks for life, you have to exercise consistently. Imagine, "oh yeah, I was in a war a couple hundred years ago, I think I'm still good, no need to exercise or train" lolol So it will now be a constant presence in the Valkyries' lives, especially for those who decide to stick with the group and make it a big part of their lives.

It's definitely going to be like you said, more of a give and take situation, they are both competitive as hell and it's going to provide for some funny smugness.