Stories From the Depths of Prythian

A page for posting fanfictions from the universe of Sarah J Mass Asks are open!

[acourtofinkandpapyrus]

Master List!

Requests are open! The only line (for now) I really draw is nothing noncon or dubcon!

Remember to read the warnings

Smut will have this by it: *

suggestions open

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Azriel:

Series:

My Little Shadow (finished): Part one, Part two, Part three, Part four, Part five, Part six, Part seven, Part eight, Part nine, Part ten, Part eleven, Part twelve, Part thirteen, Part Fourteen, Epilogue/Part fifteen*

One shots:

A Dance of Death: here

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Eris:

Series: A Flower With Petals of Flame: Part one Part two Part three Part four Part five Part six Part seven Part eight Part nine Part ten Part eleven part twelve Part thirteen Part fourteen Part fifteen Part sixteen Part seventeen Part eighteen Part nineteen An announcement

One shots:

Confessions*: here

Will you be mine?: here

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Morrigan:

Late Night Comfort: Here

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Rhysand:

Series: Shallow Waters

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Headcanons: here

[acourtofinkandpapyrus]

Shallow Waters: Part One (PirateRhysand x Reader)

Warnings: Arranged marriage, toxic family, swearing, drinking

Tag list:

Being the only daughter of Beron, you are expected to marry someone and be the perfect example of elegance. You've managed to make yourself completely undesirable to the other royalty, until one of the worst males visit for a party...

I walk down the gilded halls of our fathers castle on my twin brother’s arm, trying to keep a pretty smile plastered onto my face as some lord and lady I don’t recognise pass us.

My brother Lucien was born first, a relatively easy birth in comparison to mine.

I was out second, and our mother almost died giving birth to me.  My father has hated me ever since then, and most of my other brothers never let me forget it.

“This gathering of male’s that our father’s planning, you know he expects you to leave with an engagement, correct?”  Lucien asked once the couple was out of ear shot.

My lips quirked up into a smile.  Lucien was always worried about me, taking the over protective brother stereotype to new heights.

“Oh, you know that none of those fools will be leaving that room with any intention to take me as their wife.  No, not Y/n the terrible.”  I tease, elbowing him.

I had earned the nickname after my father had hosted a ball, hoping to pawn me off onto some influential family.

That night I had made sure to heckle, bother, and step on everyone’s toes.

I also drank so much that I vomited on one of my brothers.

Now that was a fun night.

Lucien didn’t laugh as he normally would though.  “I know you think yourself invincible sister, but father is growing impatient, and I’m worried.”

I roll my eyes, but don’t bother to comment, instead, asking him quietly, “Talking about marriage, when are you and Jesminda going to tie the knot?”

Lucien’s eyes went wide as he quickly scanned around, making sure no one heard me before he hissed in a low voice, “We don’t talk about her in the castle, you know that.”

I shrugged, grinning.  “That’s not an answer brother.”

He sighed wearily.  “ We don’t have any plans for the immediate future.  If father found out about us-”

Rolling my eyes, I let out an exaggerated sigh.  “You need to worry less about father and more about living!”  I exclaim throwing my arms out to emphasize my point.

I knew the importance of keeping their relationship hidden, but still, I hated seeing my brother fretting about it all the time.

His eyes narrowed.  “I know you’ve had your flings, but you don’t know what it’s like to love someone deeply yet.  And when you do, you’ll realize that you’ll worry less about ‘living’ as you put it, and more about keeping that other person safe.”

His speech makes me yawn, and he scowls.

“Are you even listening to me?”  He inquired.

“Nope!” I say, picking up my skirts and turning down an adjacent hall, running awkwardly in my heels as I shouted over my shoulder, “I’ll see you around Lucy, and you better have an answer next time I see you!”

I giggled as I ran away, hearing him mutter a curse as I did.  He hated that nickname.

As I walk, I gasp as I see my friend, Alis, who I was told would be visiting from the summer court.

“Alis!  It’s been forever!  I didn’t know you’d arrive so soon!”  I exclaim, rushing up to her and taking her bark like hands into mine as I grin with glee.  “I was told your ship had been delayed!  Something about harsh storms on the sea?”  I question, taking her arm as she gives me a soft grin, the both of us walking through the halls as we spoke.

“Actually, if you truly want to know, it was pirates.”  Alis whispered, smiling softly as my face split into a ridiculously wide grin.

“Pirates?! That’s so cool!”  I exclaim, shaking her slightly.  “You have to tell me everything.  Were they ruffians?  How many tattoos did they have?  Did they fly a black flag like the stories claim?”

Alis shushed me, laughing softly.  “It was strange.  Some of them were tattooed, yes. And they flew a black flag, but for thieves they were actually quite polite.”

I groan, and Alis looks at me curiously.

“Boring!” I exclaim with frustration, making Alis chuckle.

“If I were a pirate, I would swear and drink and cause havoc wherever I went!” I say holding up my arm as if I was holding a sword.

“Lady Y/N!”  I hear one of my father’s advisors admonish, and I roll my eyes.

“Sorry Alis, it looks like I’m about to be lectured once again about how a proper lady should behave.  I’ll see you later?”  I ask, and she nods.

“I have a date with Kendrick anyway.”  She says, and I smile as she turns away.

Those two were mates, and I envied her a bit.  I would love to be whisked away by my mate, loved and free of my wretched father.

“Y/N!”  The advisor shouted again, and I rolled my eyes as I turned, making my way over to the stout man.

I sit perfectly still as the maids braid my straight red hair into plaits that would wrap around my head as my father paced behind us.

“Y/N, I am in no mood for your antics tonight.  You will act like a proper lady.  You will court the males that arrive tonight, and find a husband among them.” He spoke, his syllables clipped as he came up behind me, the maids clearing away as he placed his hands on my shoulders, meeting my eyes in the vanity mirror.

“One way or another, you are going to be out of my house by the end of this year, do you understand?”  He snarled, and I nodded, trying to hold back a smile.

What he didn’t realize was that was exactly what I wanted.  I wanted to leave.

“Yes father.”  I murmur demurely, and he turns away, scoffing.

“You are a disgrace to this family.  Try not to bring any more shame on our good name tonight girl.”  He snapped, leaving the room in a huff.

Oh, I was going to make him regret that I’d ever been born.

Actually, he already did that.

I was going to make him regret that he’d ever been born.

I entered the ball room, making sure to have worn a dress meant for dining instead of dancing.  It was a mistake only little children made, and usually was the cause for laughter.

But I wasn’t a child.

I searched for Lucien, but didn’t see him.

I sigh, deciding to make my way to the refreshment table.  Because right now was the perfect time to get black out drunk.

“How are you dear sister?”  Eris asked, planting himself next to me at the table, already sipping on a goblet of wine.

Snatching his goblet and downing it in one swig, I responded a moment later.  “It’s as if the mother herself has decided to make my life miserable.”  I mutter.

I never had much faith, but I see Eris’s lips twist into a sort of smile, even as I get dirty looks from the other males nearby.

I snort, and he hums.

“I’m guessing you plan to spite both her and your father tonight?”  He asks, raising an eyebrow.

Giving a little shrug, I hand him back his empty cup.  “You mean our father.  Just because you don’t like him, doesn’t mean he isn’t.  Or else he would have no children.”

Eris nods.  “Of course I meant our father.”

Something’s off about his tone, but I don’t get the chance to inspect it as I feel another figure appear at my side.

I look over, and feel a shiver go down my spine as I see a tall male with black hair wearing a bone white suit.

He was handsome I guess, but he didn’t have a face you could really spot in a crowd.  The only thing that struck me were his black eyes, cunning with emotions I couldn’t read swirling in them.

My stomach gave an unpleasant twist as he smiled at me.

“Care for a dance my lady?” He asked, not sounding kind.  He sounded like a predator who had cornered their prey.

I shrug, picking up another goblet, swirling it as I respond sharply, “I’m not wearing the proper dress for it.”

He doesn’t smile, get angry, or show any emotion at all as he just stares at me in response.

“Do you like it here?”  He asks, his head tilting a little bit.

I shift uncomfortably, realizing where this male is from.

Not many things are known about Hybern, but what does travel past their borders is terrifying.

“It’s better than some places.”  I say, the remark coming out as more cutting than I meant it.

This is where he starts to smirk.  “We’ll see.”  He says simply before pushing away, disappearing quickly into the crowd.

I have a bad feeling that that will not be the last I see of that unknown male.

I manage to make an absolute disaster of the ball, and by the end I can feel my father’s flaming eyes burrowing into my back as I leave, swishing my hips as I swagger away.

I am completely drunk, and I half hate it as I stumble back to my room.

I hate that I have to degrade myself like this to stay free.

As I stumble down the hall, I see Lucien outside of my door, looking frantic.

“Lucy?”  I slur, running into a wall as I made my way towards him.

He rushed over to me, helping me into my room.

“Luce, what’s wrong?”  I ask as he lays me down on the bed.

He starts to speak, but I don’t hear what he says as I’m pulled into a deep sleep.

I woke up the next morning with a horrible headache, groaning as I tried to roll out of bed.

Damn hangovers, they lasted longer than the parties.

A knock on my door had me flopping back into bed, calling out, “Enter at your own risk!”

I was surprised to see that it was Eris at my door, even more surprised to see a worried look on his face instead of his normal sneer.

He quickly stepped into the room, shutting and locking the door behind him.  “You should really remember to lock your doors at night.”  He snapped, turning to glare at me as I kicked the covers off.

There was the brother I knew, but I could still tell that there was something off about him, a panicked sort of energy radiating from his form.

I yawned, rubbing at my eyes as I stood.  I ignored him as I headed over to the windows, throwing the curtains open.

Eris cursed and ran over, quickly pulling them shut again.  “Get dressed.  Now.”  He shouts, throwing the bag he had brought with him into my arms.

“Wait!  What’s going on?”  I ask, my stomach twisting as I realize that he’s serious.

He pulls my drawers open, sorting out clothes.  “Apparently your normal ruse didn’t work.  You’re officially engaged.”

If I wasn’t awake, I am now.  “What?” I snarl, grabbing him by his collar and pulling him away from the ornate cabinet.

He scowls, snapping, “Beron’s quite pleased, considering the groom is the King of Hybern.”

I let him go out of shock, opening my mouth to ask more questions but we’re interrupted by a stiff knock on my door.

Eris’s shoulders slump almost imperceptibly.  “Too late.”

I curse myself, move over to the door, waving Eris off into my closet.

He looks offended, but I don’t wait for him to argue, unlocking the door and pulling it open with a more than nasty look plastered on my face.

The two guards there look a little uncomfortable as I stare them down in my nightgown.

The larger one shifts uncomfortably, while it’s the smaller skinner that speaks, his voice nasally.  “We are here to escort you to your new quarters ma’am.”  He says, narrowing his eyes as he tries to peer around me into my room.

I move to block his vision.  “Hasn’t anyone told you that it’s rude to wake a female so early, or doesn’t my father’s personal guard have any manners?”

His face grew red as he stammered out, “M-Ma’am please.  We must es-”

“No.”  I snap, holding my head high as I eye both of the males.  “You both will wait out here patiently while I pack my belongings, then you can explain to me why I’m suddenly expected to move.”

I slam the door and lock it, turning back to see a annoyed Eris quietly exit my closet.

We stare at each other for a moment in silence.  There was no other way out of this unless I wanted to climb out of the window and break my neck, the room being on the highest floor.

Though, it did sound better than marrying a male known for his cruelty.

Instead of doing that though, I go to my cupboards, picking up where Eris left off.

He only stares at me for a moment, only moving to help me once I started throwing clothes at him.

I look around my new room, aware that the two guards who escorted me are still right outside, making sure I didn’t make a run for it.

There’s another knock on the door, and I roll my eyes, walking over and throwing the door open.

My annoyance fades as I see Lucien standing there, his eyes wide with worry, his outfit and hair disheveled, like he rolled out of bed and ran straight over.

I open the door wider for him, and he shoots a glare at the smaller guard before stalking in.

I shut the door, whirling around before he can say anything.  “I already know, and trust me, I have no plans on marrying some tyrant.”

He pauses, shoulders stiffening.  “You’ve always made that clear.  What are you planning to do to avoid father marrying you off this time?”

I studied him for a moment, the sudden shift in demeanor and the way he asked the question.

My eyes go wide.  “You don’t know?”  I ask in disbelief.

I assumed everyone would know by now.

He notices the way I ask, and is quick to ask, “Know what?”

I shake my head, remembering how worried he looked when he entered.  “You tell me why you're here first.”  I demand.

His eyes don’t move from mine as he speaks.  “I heard the King of Hybern is going to stay here for a few nights, his patrols have been everywhere.”

“Now what don’t I know?”  He asks, crossing his arms.

I resist the urge to play it off with humor or ignore the question all together, and instead grit out, “Father is marrying me off.  Soon.”

His upper lip twitches, threatening to turn into a snarl.  “Who?”

I glare at him.  “My true love.  Who the fuck do you think dumbass?”

Normally he would scold me for speaking so harshly, but instead his face darkens.

“You’re not marrying him.”  He snarls, and I give him a nasty smile.

“Yeah, no shit.”

He can see that I’m internally panicking, and after a moment of consideration, he walks over, pulling me into a tight hug.

“We’re going to get you out of here.”

I don’t know what to say, so I just nod, hugging him back.

[acourtofinkandpapyrus]

About a Flower with Petals of Flame:

I am so sorry to do this, but until further notice notice this series is discontinued.

I know a lot of you guys liked it, but I've stopped having fun writing it, and I feel I wrote Eris completely wrong.

I may try to pick it back up in the future, but for now I'm going to move on to other projects that I am excited to write instead of something that feels like a chore.

Thank you all for your support and for reading my stories! It means the world to me!

Happy Holidays!

[acourtofbooksandshadows]

Not So Routine- Chapter 9

Summary: Between Mor and yourself the day is full of surprises.

Pairings: Eventual!Nessian x Afab!Reader Current!Mor x Afab!Reader

Warnings: Fluff, fighting and swearing.

Word count: 1260

Bookshelf Series Bookshelf

A soft hand was running up and down the skin of your arm when you woke up. You let a quiet content moan slip pass your lips as you nuzzled into the warmth beside you. A soft laugh filled the space around you and a small smile adorned your lips. The hand on your arm stopped and you groaned out in protest. 

“Why’d you stop?” Your voice cracked around the words due to how dry your throat was. 

“Now that you’re awake I was going to see if you wanted to go and get breakfast. Unless you want to stay in and eat here.” Mor kept her voice low enough to keep the peaceful atmosphere but loud enough to be heard clearly. 

“We never go out to eat.” You pulled away from her and narrowed your eyes on her face. It never really crossed your mind that you could go out to eat breakfast with her. The relationship you had was kept under such tight wraps that it didn’t seem like a possibility. 

“Well you’ve got the day off work so I figured maybe we could make a day out of it.” You gave her an utterly confused look because you hadn’t had a day off in a long long time. You felt no need to take days off. Even when your best friend insisted you do. 

“I don’t take days off.” Curiosity crawled along your spine and into your mind. 

“I sent a note to the shop that you would be taking the day off. Your best friend was ecstatic at the idea and didn’t protest for a second. She even threatened to tie you to your bed if you attempted to go in anyways.” Mor gave you a mischievous smile, you looked at her and wondered why she had gone to all the trouble. Then your mind drifted to the ordeal of last night and you understood. This was her way of getting your mind off of things. You placed a kiss on her cheek before standing up. 

“Where would you like to eat?” You felt a prick of longing and sadness nestled within your chest and you fought to block off the bonds. You hadn’t even thought of doing that last night. So you were sure they had felt everything you had. Which scared you more than the memory itself did. You heard her name a nice brunch spot in town as you made your way into your bathroom. You brushed your teeth and made quick work of brushing your hair out and putting it in a braid before you left the tiny room. 

“I need to stop by the house of wind after breakfast. If that’s alright with you?” You shrugged your shoulders and told her you didn’t mind. You both got ready in comfortable silence, she wore a pair of your casual pants and a nice red flowy camisole and light jacket with them. Even though the outfit was utterly relaxed she looked absolutely stunning. You wore a pair of pants and a sweater. Brunch went smoothly and the both of you walked towards the house of wind in a relaxed manner. 

“We’ll have to winnow up there. But you have to make sure to catch yourself from the fall.” She hadn’t expected you to be so graceful when you landed. It had taken her years to master the free fall land. But you, well you landed it perfectly. 

“What do you need to grab?” You asked her as you walked into the house. 

“Need to grab a book from the library. But we should make a shortstop.” You studied her face for a moment before realization dawned on you. She was tricking you into something, you weren’t sure what it was but the glint in her eye gave you enough proof there was definitely an ulterior motive for your stop today. But you didn’t ask her what it was as she led you through the house and to the roof, which was filled with females and one male.

Your breath left you in one foul swoop as you gazed upon your mates. Cassian had a look of determination and authority radiating off him as he surveyed the group in front of him. He was watching as the group of women spared together. Nesta was up against a gorgeous Illyrian female. She was perfectly honed grace as she glided across the ground, dodging attacks and performing ones of her own. You turned to Mor when you heard her let out a long sigh. Her eyes were fixated on the Illyrian female and you realized that her detour was as much for her as it was for you. 

“You should ask her out.” Your words were a whisper in the wind and had Mor not been so close she wouldn’t have heard them. She shook her head sadly however. 

“I don’t think she’s interested.” You’d never seen her quite so sad and there was no way you were gonna let her continue her pouting. You turned back to the group with a new determination flickering through you. 

You watched as the winged female flipped Nesta onto her back and held her by her throat. You fought down the urge that built up inside you to go over and tear the winged females throat out. Nesta was okay and smiling as the female helped her stand. So there was no need to go feral, you told yourself. 

A flirty smile marked your lips as you walked up to the pair. You noticed out of the corner of your eye Cassian straightened up. A flicker of confusion whipped down the bond connecting you two. But you didn’t let that stop you. Nesta stopped smiling when you approached and gave you a narrowed look. 

“Hello.” A perfectly flirtatious and inquisitive lit was in your voice as you faced the Illyrian. You ignored Nesta completely even as jealousy whipped against your bond with her. You held out a hand and the female took it lightly. You pulled her towards you ever so slightly and she gave you a bewildered look. 

“Uhm hi. I’m Emerie.” Her words were hesitant as she looked at Nesta’s glare and then over towards Cassian who looked ready to level the rooftop they were on. 

“That’s a very pretty name for a very pretty female.” Her eyes were wide in the wake of your compliment. “Mor and I are planning to go to Rita’s for drinks tonight. We would love it if you would accompany us.” You fluttered your lashes at her and watched as shock filled her features. You could tell she wanted to look at the blonde standing in the doorway behind you, but she kept her eyes on you instead. 

“I think I can make that work. Nesta, would you and Cassian like to join us?” You kept your surprise under wraps as you turned to the seething female next to you. You gave her a lazy smile and she returned it with a scowl. 

“We would love to.” It was Cassian that agreed to the proposal. Every ounce of confidence within you flew away. 

“Sounds great. We’ll see you there.” The words were rushed out as you turned and headed back towards Mor, a whiff of Cassian’s scent finding your nose as you passed him. A groan got locked in your throat as you tried to contain the emotions raging through you. As you passed through the door with a surprised Mor you wondered what the fuck you had gotten yourself into.

A/N: This part was shorter but the next part is longer and has a bit more meat to it! Thank you all for reading and as always likes, comments, reblogs and follows are much appreciated.

Tags(open): @kmc1989 @dream-alittlebiggerdarling @luvmoo @wolfsbane44 @acourtofinkandpapyrus @moonlwghts @maddietheshoe @hyemishii @fanboyluvr @starswholistenanddreamsanswered @pinksmellslikelove @waytoomanyteenagefeels @littlebbb @cat-or-kitten @brandywineeeee

[acourtofinkandpapyrus]

Hehehe I love jealous Nesta

[acourtofinkandpapyrus]

A Dance of Death (Part one?) Azriel x Reader

Warnings: Attempted murder, mentioned death, and I think that's it! :D

I have no idea if this is a stand alone or what, but this helped me get out of my writing funk so yay!!!

Azriel goes to a dance with his family, and he can't take his eyes off of you. Too bad you're a renowned assassin there to kill him.

Listened to Swan Lake Op. 20 Act II while writing! The ballet is actually based off of Swan Lake (I don't know a whole lot about it, but I'm about to!)

I sigh as I prepare to head out onto stage.

Yes, I love ballet, but I was by no means happy to be on stage performing for the seven highlords tonight.

No, because I was not on this stage because of my craft, but because of my other job, the one I took up after my parents passed because of Hybren.

Tonight, I was here to do the impossible.

I was here to kill the spy master of the Night Court.

The music starts to play, and I raise my head up high as I move gracefully onto the stage.

I would never have been here if it were just for my dancing.  My mother had been human, but painfully beautiful.

My father had done what most fae would have thought unthinkable, and moved to the human lands with her, and raised me there.

Until the Hybren soldiers came through, on a mission to kidnap the high lady of night’s sisters.

And that’s where they found us.

The thoughts fly from my mind as the music slowly starts up, the harps quiver, the flutes accompany them with their sharp notes as other instruments join the harmony that hold the audience in a breathless captivation as we start the performance.

If you had asked the Spy Master of the Night Court an hour earlier, he would have informed you that he would rather be in a pit with ten Wyrms than go to some ballet about swans.

Actually, he probably would have just ignored the question altogether, but the sentiment would be the same.

Now, he couldn’t tear his eyes away from the stage, from the girl who plays the main girl, Odette.

But his attention is not on the story, about the swans whose curse that can only be broken by true love.

No, his eyes were only on you.

The way you glided across the stage, the raw emotions you displayed, the way you seemed to move not with the music, but as one with it captivated him in a way he had never experienced before.

“I’m glad someone’s enjoying the show.”  Rhysand muttered under his breath as he shifted uncomfortably, wrapping his arm protectively around his high lady.

There had been rumors that someone had hired an assassin to go after a member of his family, and he was on edge.

The only reason they left at all was because as long as the other high lords were here, no one would dare attempt such a thing.

He couldn’t help but worry though, especially as his brother only became more enraptured in the performance.

Rhysand was happy for his brother, not seeing him this moved in a long time.

Still though, something screamed in his head that he should take all of them and winnow home now.

But to the thought he paid no head, and kept his mate close, not noticing the way you moved with an assassin's grace or the calloused hands of a warrior.

No, he held his family close, reassuring himself that they were safe.

I bow with the others before walking off the stage, heart beating as I struggled to quell the bubbly feeling that filled my heart after a dance.

I had no time for basking in the joy, not when the Spy Master’s eyes had been on me the whole dance.

At first I had been afraid that he knew what I was, what I was there to do.

But instead… Instead I had quickly realized that it wasn’t that he knew anything.  No, he had been watching in a way I was not accustomed to.

A stare that was normally reserved for the normal females who were so beautiful you had to wonder if they had bargained their soul away to some high lord to have such an ethereal appearance.

It almost made me sad about what I had to do next.

I head down many halls, but I can sense him behind me, following me.

My lips quirk upwards.  I had been worried about getting him away from the others, but it apparently wouldn’t be a problem.

It was starting to seem like the feared Spy Master would be my easiest kill of the decade.

I open the door to my dressing room when his silky voice slices through the silence, “Hello.”

My shock isn’t totally feigned as I turn, tilting my head up to look at him.

One of the many tells of my human lineage was my height.  I had gotten used to being small compared to the fully fae, but the spy master was even taller than most.

I swallow thickly.  “Oh, hello.”

We’re silent for a moment, so I add, “You were in the crowd.”

He nods, his eyes darkening as he says in a low voice, “I was.”

A shiver runs down my spine, and for a minute I forget that I’m supposed to kill him as I study the dark armor and the chiseled tan face.

I’m careful to avoid looking into his eyes again though.

My mother used to tell me that the eyes were a window to the soul, but as I grew older, I realized I didn’t always want to see people’s souls, the darkness that lies there.

So I let myself enjoy the superficial attention he’s giving me and grin, acting a bit embarrassed.

“Ah, I’m so sorry.  Would you like to come in?”  I offer anxiously, stepping out of the way, playing the blushing maiden that is flustered to have a male so close.

And it works, because he relaxes slightly, stepping into the room.

I grin to myself as I follow him in, making sure the door shuts behind me as I follow him in.

And now, all I had to do was kill him.

He studies the room, out of place in the pink room, cluttered with trinkets.

I’m glad that they had let me borrow another dancer's dressing room, especially as he seems to relax even more, shifting awkwardly.

Heading over to the vanity, I pretend I’m neatening up the space, when in reality I’m taking the dagger I had hid there earlier.

“Your dancing out there was beautiful.”  He says, sticking to statements.

I laugh softly.  “You’re too kind.  I’m well aware that I wasn’t even close to the best dancer out there, but as luck had it, I somehow managed to fall into the role.”

I turn to look at him again, and a lump forms in my throat as he stares at me with a blazing intensity.

“Compared to you, the rest of the dancers were children.  I have never seen someone move with such grace in a long time.”  He says, no hesitation.

His words have a strange effect on me, but I shove it down.  He’s just another male, most likely just looking for a warm body for the night.

“Well Spy Master, I appreciate the compliment, but-”

“Would you consider giving dance lessons?”  He blurts out, and suddenly I’m frozen on the spot.

“D-Dance lessons?”  I stutter, totally caught off guard.

Was this some sort of trick?

He clears his throat, and his cheeks turn the faintest shade of pink.  “My brother’s mate used to take dancing lessons.  She still loves to dance, so I thought maybe you could teach her.”

I swallow, trying to process this information, but before I can he’s already continuing, “We would pay generously, and i already talked to my high lord, we could provide you with housing while you stayed.”

“St-stayed where?”  I’m trying not to shake, still holding the knife behind my back.

“Velaris.”

I’m completely silent.  I hadn’t heard much about the city, just that it had been a secret for years, and still they didn’t bring people in often.

Either the Spy Master was much dumber than rumor claimed or…

No.  That was stupid.  He doesn’t even know my name, he’s just a dumbass.

But nonetheless, I realize I can’t kill him now.

I grit my teeth, not bothering to hide my anger as I slip the dagger into the back of my tutu, using the other hand to point toward the door.  “Leave.”

He blinks in surprise, stiffening up.  “What?”

I groan, rolling my eyes before heading to the door, flinging it open.  “Go.  Right fucking now.  I never want to see you again.”

He doesn’t move, and I glare at him.

He stares right back, silent as his shadows curl around his ear.

“What were you doing with that dagger?”

I sigh, unable to believe what I’m about to do as I say, “I was supposed to kill you, but now I find I really don’t want to, so can you just leave?”

He stiffens up, shocked at my blunt admission.

“You were going to try and kill me?” He asks, incredulous.

I snort.  “Arrogant much?  Yes.  I was hired by one of the autumn lords.  Don’t know which.”

He just stares before his eyes harden and he stands up.  “You’re coming with me.”

I just grin at him before taunting, “Catch me then pretty boy,”  before running off into the halls of the dance studio.

He can’t even follow me with his shadows as I winnow away, surrounding myself in a sphere of light.

Oh, did I mention I can summon light?  And not just those tiny fae lights, I could blind a whole city. Which is perfect for losing a shadowsinger.

[acourtofbooksandshadows]

Not So Routine- Chapter 8

Summary: Unexpected visitors cause your night to go astray. Luckily Mor is there to help anchor you.

Pairings: Eventual!Nessian x Afab!Reader Current!Mor x Afab!Reader

Warnings: Angst, men being disgusting foul little things, blood, weapons, swearing, wounds, passing out, vomit, bones breaking, child abuse from parent and death. Just please tread lightly if you are squeamish or uncomfortable with any of the above topics.

Word count: 3233

Bookshelf Series Bookshelf

It seemed that all the eventful experiences of the day were not in fact over. Because when you got home that night you paused dead in your tracks and stared widely at the forms waiting for you. Out of everyone you’d expected to be at your door it definitely wasn’t Azriel and Rhysand. You stared at them in shock and Rhysand tried to give you his best calming smile while Azriel didn’t even try to look less intimidating. 

“Oh, hello, I wasn’t expecting company today.” They were blocking your door and didn’t seem like they were going to move until your keys rattled. Rhysand stepped aside and Azriel tucked his wings in as you approached, you made quick work of the door before ushering them inside. You groaned as you realized you hadn’t cleaned up your apartment in a couple days. You hadn’t thought you’d need to since Mor was the only one that ever came over and she didn’t mind a bit of clutter. 

“I’m sorry for the mess. I wasn’t-” Your words were cut off by Rhysand. 

“Expecting company.” Nerves were working through you at a fast pace. You had a feeling that this wasn’t a friendly visit. Especially with the way Azriel seemed a little on edge. 

“Is this about Devlon?” You chewed on your lower lip so hard you started to taste blood before releasing it. 

“I’ve been gathering information on him and the males in ironcrest. I’m just wanting to iron out a few details with you.” Azriel’s voice surprised you as you realized this was the first time you’ve heard it. 

“Would either of you like tea or anything?” You stood awkwardly in the doorway to your kitchen that was just next to your front door. They both shook their head and you lead them towards your dining room table. You were thankful for the bench that lined one side of the table as Azriel was able to comfortably sit without his wings being in the way. 

“What would you like to know?” Azriel shot off a list of names in reply and had you confirm or deny their involvement. But you hadn’t known any of their names so that didn’t help at all. 

“We could try something different instead. If you’re comfortable with it of course.” You eyed Rhysand curiously already suspecting you wouldn’t like the words about to leave his mouth. 

“I could look at the memory and we could narrow down who they are that way.” A large wave of nausea took over you at the thought of reliving the experience that had scarred you not only physically but mentally and emotionally as well. 

“Does it have to be tonight?” You hadn’t realized you were picking at your nails until you pulled on a especially tender spot and you dropped your hands into your lap. 

“The sooner the better. I’m afraid that if they get wind of me digging around they might flee or try to hide any evidence of their activities.” Azriel’s voice shook you once again. Though from the stories you’ve heard of him you doubted anyone would figure out what he was up to. Unless of course he wanted them too. Rhysand seemed to take pity in the way you shook as he placed a calming hand on your arm from his spot next to you.

“Would you like me to request Mor join us?” You nodded your head quickly at his question, you knew her presence would help you undoubtedly. His eyes glazed over for a moment and after waiting with baited breath he came back. He didn’t even have to tell you what she said as she appeared in the space behind Rhysand. 

“I’m scared.” You whispered to her as she pulled a chair next to yours. She grabbed your hand that was closest to her and intertwined her fingers with yours. 

“I know but I’ll be here the whole time. Then we can go to bed afterwards.” She dragged the smooth skin of her thumb along the smooth skin of the back of your hand soothingly. You nodded your head at her before turning back to Rhysand, who was eyeing you and his cousin curiously. 

“I’m ready.” Somehow your voice came out steady and your hands didn’t shake. But nausea was something you couldn’t push away. This would be the first and the only time you showed it to someone else. 

“Would it be alright for me to share the memory with Azriel and Mor as you share it with me?” You nodded your head at him and began chewing on your lip again. Your eyes fluttered closed and then squeezed tight. Rhysand began to claw at your mind and you let out him enter as a shaky breath left your mouth. Once he found the memory you were whisked into it. 

When you had awoken that morning you groaned in pain. Your stomach and back felt like it was on fire and being stabbed all at once. You sat up with a wince and that’s when you noticed the wet feeling between your legs. You lifted the blanket up and stared at the blood that pooled between your legs. Panic set through you like water breaking through a damn. 

You weren’t exactly sure what was happening to you. But you knew that if your father found out that he’d find some way to punish you. So you got out of your bed and stood on shaky legs. There were chores that you needed to complete before Devlon came home. Even though you felt an ache and a sweat all over your body you couldn’t leave the chores unfinished. 

Your legs barely held you up as you exited your cramped room and made your way to the bathroom. You bunched up a small towel in your underwear to hopefully hold the blood that still steadily poured out of you. The rough feeling of the walls dug into your hand as you caught yourself from falling down the stairs when a particularly sharp jab spiked in your side. Your wings unused twitched open and closed behind you. After two large glasses of water to hold down the nausea and a mug of tea, with a bowl of oatmeal you finally started on your chores. 

Even though your father had a wife she did nothing to help you. Instead she would sit around most of the day and complain. She would complain about anything she could think of. Most of the time though it was you she’d complain about. Then there were some days where she would stay in her room and wouldn’t leave until your father came home. That left all the chores for you. It had become a routine at this point though. Wake up, eat breakfast, make your fathers bed, do the dishes, do the laundry, dust, sweep, mop, take care of the trash and then have dinner on the table by the time he comes home. 

You had just got done making dinner when your father came into the small house. The cramps had lessened as you worked around the house so you were going to bathe and wash the towels you had gone through while he ate dinner. But he called out to you when your foot met the second step of the stairs. You turned around nervously and you saw him take a deep breath. Then there was nothing but fury within his eyes. 

“Your first bleeding. Why didn’t you tell me about this?” Your whole body went on high alert as you looked at him. He was all but shaking with rage. The words wouldn’t leave your throat as fear settled within every nook of your body. 

“Answer me now.” He was baring his teeth at you, wings spreading out and chest puffing up. You shrank into yourself slowly under his gaze.

“It happened this morning, I didn’t know what was wrong. I am sorry.” You took the one step down and knelt before him. Wings sagging behind you and eyes gazing at the floor. You weren’t lying when you told him you had no idea what was happening. You had never been told of a first bleeding before. 

“You’re absolutely useless to me now. Go up to your room until I get you.” You hadn’t been prepared to be sent to your room. You’d normally receive your punishment immediately. It was typically a whipping with his belt or a couple of well placed kicks and punches to your body. 

You felt your breakfast from the morning coming up your throat as you stood and stalked up the stairs. Once you sat on your bed you stared at your wall for what felt like days but was really only a couple of hours. 

The trance you were in was broken as you heard your name being called through the house. You made quick work of going down the stairs and you went to kneel before your father again but he stopped you. The bile that you had finally choked down earlier threatened to come back up as he glared at you. He started walking towards the door and you stood in your place.

“Let’s go.” You hesitated at his words because you had never been allowed outside. From the day you were born all you had was the walls and rooms of your house. 

“I said let’s fucking go.” He stalked over to you and grabbed your hair roughly dragging you behind him. Your wings scraped against the floor as your legs stumbled beneath you to keep up right. The sharp chill of the breeze outside pierced the thin dress you wore and you hissed. You brought your hands up to your arms trying to rub heat into them. The snow seeped into the thin flats on your feet and chilled your toes instantly. 

You looked around and took in the sights of the camp you had only ever gazed upon from the windows in your house. No one was outside and that had you on edge even more than you already were. There was normally a slew of males drinking and rough housing at all hours. But right now it seemed everyone was inside. The wings on your back were twitching in agony at the sharp pricks of cold snapping at them. 

There was no sound to be heard other than your laboring breath and the curses from the male dragging you. The reality of the situation you were in finally set in as he dragged you closer to the trees. He pulled you through the foliage not doing anything to protect you against the lashing of the branches and leaves on your skin. You screamed as you hit a root in the ground and twisted your ankle, a loud crack ringing out through the silent night.

When you entered a clearing you noticed three males standing there. They all had wings but you didn’t recognize them as any of the males you had seen from the windows of your house. They didn’t even flinch at the way you were thrown to the ground before them. Your father spat at you as you cradled the wrist that had tried to catch you from your fall. 

“Do whatever you want to her. I don’t ever want to see her again.” His voice was pure venom as he directed the statement at the males. Before he promptly turned around and left the clearing.

Your eyes were wide and you pleaded with the males in front of you but they only laughed before one of them went to snatch you up. But you backed away from them as best you could with your injured leg and arm. That earned you a punch that went straight to your nose and cracked the bone efficiently. Blood sprayed out across your face and the ground and your head spun at the pain. 

You didn’t see the other one come up behind you. An arm wrapped around your neck and you clawed at the material of the shirt while you fought for your oxygen. He only squeezed harder even as your nails finally shredded his shirt and made contact with his skin. He brought you up and the tips of your now bare feet grazed the snow covered ground. Your vision blurred and you tried to let out a final plea but you couldn’t get a word out. The ache in your chest ebbed into a buzz throughout your body as your lungs continued to struggle. The last thing you heard before you passed out was the one that hadn’t approached you yet saying how much fun he was going to have with you. 

When you woke up, you gagged at the taste of blood in your mouth. You tried to open your eyes but they didn’t want to cooperate. It took you several more tries before they finally cracked open. You realized through the slits in your eyes that they were swollen. The dark room around you didn’t give you any clues as to where you were. But the laughing beyond the door gave you an idea. 

A loud scream ripped through your throat as you tried to stand. You looked down at your ankles and realized they were both shackled and the right one was swollen, bruised and had an odd angle to it. You tried to bring a hand down to your swollen ankle but noticed that they were also shackled and that your left wrist was in just about as poor condition as your ankle was. Your scream seemed to have garnered the attention of the Illyrians because the door was slamming open and light was flooding in. 

“Oh good, the bitch is awake.” You didn’t know where the voice was coming from as you squeezed your eyes shut. The light entering the room caused a sharp pain to throb through your head. 

“Now for that fun I talked about earlier.” You assumed he had a set of keys in his hand as you heard the sound of metal clanging together. Your suspicions were confirmed as you felt the shackles being unlocked from the floor. Two of them grabbed you under your armpits and started to drag you out to where they came from. You cracked your eyes open despite the light and tried to ignore the way the shackles pulled on your mangled wrist and ankle. 

The large table in the center of the room and the weapons lining the walls had you getting sick. The vomit mixed with the blood in your mouth and on your face and clothes as it came out of you. You heard one of the males next to you curse before a sharp pain radiated through your side. You glanced down and noticed there was a knife sticking out of your side. 

“Let’s get this done with. She’s fucking disgusting.” You figured you were even though you couldn’t see yourself. You knew there was blood and now vomit covering your face and clothes. You could feel blood pooling between your legs and down them. Your skin had tiny cuts and dirt and what not from being dragged through the forest and you were bruised in various places. 

“Get her on the table.” You tried once again to pull away from them but they only gripped you harder and the male that stabbed you twisted the knife. They picked you up and laid you face down on the table. Your nose smacked against the rough surface and you were sure they had broken it again. 

“What are you going to do?” Your question fell on deaf ears as they locked you down by your shackles and moved around the room. They all seemed perfectly in sync as they skirted around each other and handed each other different objects.

“Hold the half breed down. I’m gonna get started on the first one.” Your wings twitched at the words. Like they knew what was happening before you did. Pain shot through you with a vengeance as the first deep cut was made to your wing. You tried to push away the pain and fight but with the second deep cut you were succumbing to the black spots in your already hazy vision. 

The next time you opened your eyes you were numb. Every last part of you no longer feeling. You couldn’t feel the nasty cuts in your back were now laying bare on the dirty ground below you from where your wings were cut off. You couldn’t feel the snow seeping into your skin, the broken bones from earlier weren’t even a thought either as you stared up at the sun above you. A slow and cynical laugh left your lips as you realized this was the first time you had ever felt the sun on your skin. Because you couldn’t even feel the heat from it. 

A sound rang out somewhere near you but you couldn’t make it out as your ears rang. You hadn’t even noticed the blood that now poured down the sides of your neck and mixed in with your hair. Your eyes were still slits from the swelling when someone came and blocked the sun from your view. You blinked once and then twice, slowly as you tried to make out who was there. 

You watched their mouth move but couldn’t make out what they were saying. They came toward you and you couldn’t find it within you to fight them. Even when their wings finally came into view from where they stood tall and proud behind them. They knelt down beside you and hauled you into their arms. You didn’t feel any pain as they jostled you to adjust you better trying to avoid hitting the knife still lodged in your side. 

As you finally took in their face you realized it was a gorgeous female. You had never seen anyone as pretty as her, you decided. A small smile grazed your lips and you hoped this angel of death understood you were grateful for them before your eyes fluttered closed and you slipped into the darkness that had been fighting to consume you. 

A sob left your lips as you came back to your kitchen table. The males around the table looked at you in surprise and you shrunk into yourself but Mor was quick in standing up and gathering you into her arms, your legs wrapping around her middle. She smoothed a hand over your hair and laid a kiss on your forehead before whispering to her cousin and Azriel. You couldn’t understand what she was saying as your head was buried into her neck. 

She carried you to your room and laid you on your bed. You didn’t hear a door close but you felt a ripple of power through your apartment and figured that Rhysand must’ve winnowed away as Azriel slipped through his shadows. Mor carefully got you out of your day clothes and slipped you into a pair of sleep pants and a sleep shirt. She laid beside you once she was in similar attire and let you curl into her. She ran a hand up and down your back until you fell asleep with tear tracks down your face. Before you slipped into slumber you had uttered a sentence that rattled her bones. 

“I want the killing blows.”

A/N: I hope everyone enjoyed getting insight into readers past. There will be more Nesta and Cassian in the next part. Thank you all for reading and as always likes, comments, reblogs and follows are much appreciated.

Tags(open): @kmc1989 @dream-alittlebiggerdarling @luvmoo @wolfsbane44 @acourtofinkandpapyrus @moonlwghts @maddietheshoe @hyemishii @fanboyluvr @starswholistenanddreamsanswered @pinksmellslikelove @waytoomanyteenagefeels @littlebbb @cat-or-kitten

[acourtofinkandpapyrus]

OH MY GOD- This was painful to read but I love it! I hope Y/n gets her revenge and that Delvon dies a horrible gruesome death

[acourtofbooksandshadows]

Not So Routine- Chapter 7

Summary: Nesta and Cassian come in to collect Nesta's custom piece and Y/N gets a little flustered in the process.

Pairings: Eventual!Nessian x Afab!Reader Mor x Afab!Reader

Warnings: Nerves and lust.

Word count: 930

Bookshelf Series Bookshelf

The days following went by quickly and routine. You woke up, ate breakfast, went to work, started and finished Nestas custom piece, went home and had dinner, read a book before crawling into bed. Mor had been busy with court duties so you didn’t see much of her. Before you knew it the day for Nesta to pick up her custom set came along. You had tossed and turned the night before. Then struggled to choke down breakfast, the nerves in your belly caused it to be sensitive. You paced back and forth through the store as your best friend sat at the counter trying to ease your worries. 

“You just need to take a deep breath. I’ll be here the whole time. Plus I highly doubt they're as scary as you’re going on about. I’ve seen Cassian trip and fall in a puddle after a night at Rita’s before.” She tapped her fingers along the counter in an off key tune and you simply glared at her. The thought of Cassian falling face first into a puddle drunk off his ass did make you laugh however. She gave you a toothy grin in return, happy to see some of your worries ease. The moment was halted as the door opened. You both looked towards the door and there they stood in all their perfectly poised glory. 

“Hello.” Your voice squeaked out and you cringed. Your friend slapped a hand over her mouth to cover her laugh and you glared at her. She had never seen you as nervous as you were now around someone. Once you cleared your throat you turned back to your mates and gave them a small smile. Cassian gave you one in return and Nesta relaxed the resting bitch face she normally wore which was as close to a smile you figured you’d get from her. 

“Sorry about that, I had a tickle in my throat. I’m guessing you're here to pick up your set?” You started walking behind the counter to grab the box that you had set there. The red ribbon you’d wrapped around the black box swayed in the wind as you lifted it and set it down on the counter top. You realized as you looked at the box that you had unconsciously put together the red and black you had all been wearing the night of dinner. 

“Also wanted to speak about that position you offered me.” They had both approached the counter quietly and you jumped at how close her voice was. You’d been surprised that Cassian was able to walk so softly with his hulking frame. 

“Oh yes. So we were thinking.” You gestured towards the female next to you introducing her quickly, you had both discussed the position and had decided on what you would offer her together.

“A part time position, flexible around when you are free. You can help us with new designs and custom orders. Your sketches were breathtaking and we both agree it would be amazing to see more. Pay will be weekly as well as sixty/forty commissions on any items we put out based on your sketches.” Your thumb and pointer finger rubbed the material of the ribbon on the box between them as you laid the offer out in the open. 

Cassian watched Nesta carefully, waiting to see what she would say. Her cold and calculated gaze narrowed on you before she nodded her head. A sigh slipped through your lips and your shoulders released some tension you hadn’t realized they were holding. Your friend beside you had a beaming smile on her face as she took in the scene before her. 

“When would you like me to start?” You went to answer her but the words got caught in your throat as lust swept through the bond. You weren’t sure who it was coming from or why but it had your mind spinning. The skin of your chest, neck and face heated as the feeling washed over you again. 

“Whenever you would like to, it is fine with us.” Your friend gave her a reassuring smile even though Nesta’s eyes didn’t leave yours. Cassian looked between the two of you and laid a hand on Nesta’s back. Nesta told you what day she could start and what time and your friend told her that worked perfectly.

But your eyes never left Nesta’s. Even though you were feeling completely weak, if you weren’t white knuckling the counter with one of your hands you were sure you’d be on your hands and knees crawling towards the female begging for her approval. 

Cassian stepped up to the counter and carefully took the box from where it sat in front of you. The ribbon slipped between your fingers and that broke you out of your spell. You blinked rapidly, shaking your head aggressively trying to clear the dirty thoughts away. He sent you a wink as he took the box and you took in a large gulp of air. 

Because how were you ever going to survive in this life with them as your mates. They didn’t say anything else as Cassian guided Nesta out the door. You were happy that they had already paid the first time they came in because you didn’t know if you could’ve handled them being around much longer. Your friend snickered at the scene she just witnessed and you tried to level her with an intimidating stare and she just laughed harder. You were just thankful that all the eventful experiences of the day had already passed.

A/N: I know that this part was shorter but I promise the next two parts are going to be longer. Thank you all for reading and as always likes, comments, reblogs and follows are much appreciated.

Tags(open): @kmc1989 @dream-alittlebiggerdarling @luvmoo @wolfsbane44 @acourtofinkandpapyrus @moonlwghts @maddietheshoe @hyemishii @fanboyluvr @starswholistenanddreamsanswered @pinksmellslikelove @waytoomanyteenagefeels @littlebbb @cat-or-kitten @girlmadeofavocados

[acourtofinkandpapyrus]

I love Y/n's shop friend, she's the energy everyone needs :D

[acourtofbooksandshadows]

Not So Routine- Chapter 6

Summary: After dinner gets a bit eventful. The next morning is full of surprises as well.

Pairings: Eventual!Nessian x Afab!Reader Current!Mor x Afab!Reader

Warnings: Illusions to sex in the beginning, swearing, teasing, lust, alcohol and I think that's it.

Word count: 1329

Bookshelf Series Bookshelf

The group of you had eventually moved into one of their many sitting rooms. You sat on one of the many loveseats in the room with Mor beside you. Her shoes had been slipped off and her feet were placed lightly in your lap. You had slipped your heels off as well and had placed your feet on an ottoman close to the loveseat. 

“You both left training pretty abruptly this morning.” Feyre had started to occasionally attend training sessions, deciding since having Nyx she needed to get back to training hand to hand. Where better to do that than the training sessions with the Valkyrie?

“This one couldn’t keep it in her pants.” Cassian waved a hand dramatically at the female next to him. That had Feyre sniggering and Elain blushing. Rhys had parted from the room momentarily to put Nyx down for the night. 

“What do you mean I couldn’t keep it in my pants? You were the one flooding the bond with lust.” Her eyes narrowed at the male who gave her a look of complete surprise. Amren groaned from the corner of the room where she was sitting with her own bottle of wine. She hated being present when they would bicker like they currently were. 

“I did no such thing.” His hands came up in defense. At that moment yours and Morrigan's eyes connected over your respective glasses of wine. You gave her a questioning look, eyes darting from the arguing pair back to her. She gave you an unsure shrug and then a wink. You had thought that since the bond had only snapped for you that they wouldn’t be able to feel your emotions as well. But it seemed that maybe you were wrong. 

You gave Mor a mischievous look to which she smiled at as she came to the same thought. She sipped some of her wine before licking a few drops from her lips. That was enough to have lust flaring within you. Memories of your morning activities floating through your mind sensually. You were just happy that you had learned to mask scents many years ago. So there was no way that anyone in the room other than Nesta and Cassian would be affected by it. 

“Now you’re doing it again!” Cassian yelled out causing you to jump slightly. Your wine sloshed around your cup, some of the liquid came out the side and splashed against your hand. You cursed as you brought your fingers up to your lips and cleaned them off absentmindedly. You froze as lust and curiosity filled the bonds. Your eyes slowly moved up to find Nesta already staring at you. A shiver ran down your spine as you took in the way she was looking at you. She wanted to devour you and you wouldn’t be the slightest bit surprised if she did. 

“Mor, would you mind walking me out?” The abrupt question had Mor perking up. She nodded her head quickly, setting down her glass of wine on the table in front of you. You set yours down beside hers and stood up. You ignored the way everyone in the room eyed you. 

More curiosity spiked down the bonds but this time there was a bit of longing, desire and something you couldn’t quite place as well. The feelings were starting to overwhelm you as you all but tripped to grab ahold of Mor’s arm. She placed a calming hand on yours as she walked you to the front door. You panicked as you heard a voice behind you calling your name. You shared a single glance with Mor before she winnowed you both to your apartment. 

The next morning when you showed up for work you weren’t expecting to see a pair of mates waiting at the door. You paused in your steps before backing up a couple steps and throwing yourself into the alley next to you. You pushed yourself up against the wall of the store behind you and took a shaky breath. Your thoughts raced at why they would be at your shop. 

Had it been because of how rude you were in leaving last night? Were they here to take you to face the High Lord and High Lady for disrespecting them in their home? 

You came to the conclusion that you could just walk back home and act like you’d never even left the small apartment. Until you felt a flicker of the bonds in your chest. A groan slipped through your lips as your body moved towards your mates. Your heart was slamming against your chest as you got closer to them. You plastered on a smile as they finally turned to face you. 

“How can I help you?” They parted from each other to give you room to unlock the door. You opened it and slipped inside letting them in as well. The smell of Nesta’s shampoo and Cassian’s cologne filled your senses and you had to keep yourself from taking in another big breath to take in more of it. 

“We think we might have something you want.” Nesta was cool and even as she eyed you up. You did everything you could to stop the shudder that worked through you as her gaze ate you up. 

“What would that be?” You glanced between her and Cassian’s faces, drinking in their every last feature. The little scar on Cassian’s hair line, the cool gray of Nesta’s eyes, the way Cassian’s eyebrow flicked up and the way Nesta pursed her lips together. Cassian brought his hand up and within his grasp was a pair of shoes. You looked at them again and noticed they were your shoes. Which you had left at the river house last night, when you had rudely left. They were definitely here to chew you out for that. You gulped as you watched for the tongue lashing. 

“We also wanted to see if you were okay after your hasty exit. I know I can be pretty fucking loud so I also wanted to apologize.” Cassian’s voice sounded concerned and the concern and self deprecation flowing through the bond confirmed that he was. You nodded your head trying to conceal your surprise that they were just checking up on you and reached your hand out for the heels Cassian was holding. But he pulled them away right as your fingers grazed them.

“Are you?” His voice this time held some humor along with concern. You cocked your head at him curiously. 

“Am I what?” Your voice wavered as you asked the question. It was getting increasingly hard not to touch either of them. At least last night you had Mor to give platonic affection to. But now you were alone with your mates and you couldn’t quite think straight. 

“Are you okay?” Nestas voice had your gaze shooting towards her. You almost let a moan slip past your lips at the sight of her assertive look.

“I’m just fine.” You reached your hand out again and this time Cassian let you take them. You gave him a thankful smile before turning around and heading towards the counter. 

“Thank you for bringing my shoes to me. Though I’m sure you could’ve passed them to Mor and she would have given them to me.” Jealousy whipped out along the thread of both bonds nestled with you and you flinched. 

“Can I help you with anything else today?” You tried to keep your tone light, not wanting them to realize how tense you really were. 

“No, I guess that’s it. We’ll see you again when we come to pick up my lingerie set.” Nesta seemed a bit disappointed and with the longing whipping along the bond your knees almost buckled. As they slipped out the door you had to grasp the counter to stop yourself from chasing after them. The pull to always be in their presence was starting to make you delirious it seemed.

A/N: Thank you all for reading, I am super excited for the next couple of chapters for this series. I have the next few written and the next one should be posted on Friday! As always likes, comments, reblogs and follows are much appreciated!

Tags(open): @kmc1989 @dream-alittlebiggerdarling @luvmoo @wolfsbane44 @acourtofinkandpapyrus @moonlwghts @maddietheshoe @hyemishii @fanboyluvr @starswholistenanddreamsanswered @pinksmellslikelove @waytoomanyteenagefeels @littlebbb

[acourtofinkandpapyrus]

oooooh, Nesta and Cassian are a little more than interested in Y/n :D I can't wait for the next part of this! Or fore the bond to snap for all of them

[acourtofbooksandshadows]

Alliance Maker- Chapter 9

Summary: You and Lucien do some bonding while Nesta, Cassian and Azriel are gone.

Pairings: Slow burn!Azriel x Afab!Reader

Warnings: Nightmares, fire, swearing and tomfoolery.

Word count: 1856

Masterlist Series Masterlist

When you woke up you were surprised to see Lucien sat at the desk by the large window in your room. You sat up slowly and let out a deep groan as you did. Even though you knew you’d slept for a while your body was still exhausted. You went through nightmare after nightmare without being able to wake yourself. Lucien wrote down something on the paper in front of him before slowly turning your way. He sat looking at you waiting for you to speak before he said anything. 

“Good morning, or maybe afternoon, I’m not sure which one.” Your eyes gazed through the window trying to gauge when in the day it was. Lucien seemed to relax at your words, almost like he had been preparing to be yelled at. 

“Good afternoon.” His smile settled the nerves within your chest. The smell of pumpkin, a mix of different spices and something uniquely Lucien filled the air.

“How long has it been?” You looked under the covers and noticed you were in a clean pair of trousers and a clean tunic. Nesta must have changed you when you cooled down enough. You knew your clothes from before would have been burnt except for the fingerless gloves you had left in your room on your bedside table. Which you reached for and slipped onto your hands. 

“Day and a half.” He brought a hand up to his hair and moved the strand that had fallen in his face. You let out a relieved sigh at the answer, it was the expected time so you were happy for that. 

“Where is everyone?” You had expected for Nesta to be there when you woke up so the fact she wasn’t had you slightly worried.

“There was an issue that arose in Windhaven that she, Cassian and Azriel were sent to deal with.” You nodded your head understandably and stretched your arms out over your head, a deep satisfied groan leaving your lips as you did. 

“I’m starving, do you want to go to the kitchen with me?” You cocked your head at the male curiously. He nodded at you eagerly as though he just realized he was starving as well. 

“I’m sure the house will give us dinner if we go and wait at the dining room table.” The house answered by opening the door. 

“I kind of forgot about that.” You let out a nervous laugh as you both stood and walked out to the dining room. The house had already set the table with soup, bread, salad and tea. You both uttered a thank you as you sat and started to devour the meal in front of you. As dessert was laid out you both settled into comfortable conversation. 

“I’m surprised that Nesta left you here with me.” You took a sip of your tea as Lucien took a bite of his pie. You knew of her protective nature over those she cared for. You also knew that you were one of the few she did care about. 

“She threatened to cut me up into little bitty pieces if I let anything happen to you. Not that I would’ve let anything happen to you.” He cringed and you weren’t sure if it was from the memory of Nesta’s threat or if it was at the thought of letting harm befall you.

“How long are they expected to be gone for?” You took a bite of pie this time as he took a sip of tea, he gave you a shrug in response. Moments went by of comfortable silence before he spoke again. 

“How did you know who I was?” He asked you as you sipped on your tea. You knew he was referring to your first meeting in the kitchen just days ago. 

“Do you know many other fae with red hair and a golden eye?” The sarcasm was clear in your voice and he gave you a quiet laugh in response. 

“I guess that is kind of a dead giveaway isn’t it?” You nodded your head rapidly, a smile adorning your lips at his rhetorical question. You both talked in quiet voices until you retreated to bed. 

When you awoke due to a nightmare that night there wasn’t a shadow to keep you company so you had flicked your wrist out towards the end of the bed where the bodies of Brok and Zas formed. Brok curled up at your feet and Zas came clambering up to give you a rough lick on the face. You groaned lightly before pushing him away softly. He huffed as he laid down roughly on the bed beside you. Both boys' fire was just a crackle as they slept. But the warmth they radiated was enough to keep you company as you slept. 

Lucien was surprised to see the hounds sitting at your feet the next morning when he crawled out of bed for breakfast. You had looked up at him and down towards them in a silent question on if he was okay with them or not. He gave you a shrug that all but screamed “I don’t care” and sat down across from you. 

“Do you have any plans today?” He took a large bite of the apple the house placed in front of him, you let out an obnoxious snort at his question. 

“I know all of one person well enough to make plans with them and they are not here.” You waved your hand around the room, a playful look in your eyes. 

“Would you like to go into town with me?” You contemplated his question, cocking your head back and forth before giving him a nod. While you didn’t usually keep males as company you had a feeling you could trust him with your life. Plus the last day spent with him had made you comfortable and trusting. 

“Can Brok and Zas come with us?” The answer wouldn’t be a deal breaker but you had missed them and didn’t have the heart to send them back to the inbetween. 

“Of course they can.” He didn’t even hesitate to tell you they could and that had your heart warming. Not many people accepted the hounds so you were happy that he was. You both finished breakfast before getting ready to go. You sent Brok and Zas to the in between while you flew down and Lucien winnowed. Upon your feet hitting the ground you let them out again and a group of children just so happened to round the corner as you did. You paused for a moment afraid they would be afraid of you or the hounds but instead they squealed and chased the hounds through the streets gleefully. 

“You already seem to fit right in. That’s a good thing.” Lucien whispered to you as you watched the children play with the hounds. That was something you would cherish forever, the happy sounds of children playing gleefully in the street. 

“Do you have anywhere specific you’d like to go to, Lucien?” You turned to him slightly as you asked the question though you kept your eyes on the hounds as you both started slowly walking behind them. 

“I figured we could just walk around. I can give you the grand tour of Velaris. Maybe we can eat lunch down here.” You hummed in reply and that was exactly what you did. You slipped in and out of buildings, Brok and Zas would wait outside patiently as you did. You eventually found a place to eat lunch that had outdoor seating where the boys could lay at your feet. You had many eyes on you, for not only being someone new but for the hounds that accompanied you. But with Lucien giving you the occasional reassuring smile you eased the worry away. 

“I’ll race you back to the house.” Lucien gave you a bewildered look as he tucked his hands into the pockets of his pants. His eyes both gazing in the direction of the house of wind. You had just gotten done eating and were just walking away from the restaurant. 

“What do you mean by race?” You gave him a shit eating grin before replying.

“I bet I can beat you to the house of wind and all the way up the stairs. Without using my wings and you can’t winnow either.” He seemed to contemplate what you said before shrugging, deciding he didn’t have anything better to do. 

“What are we racing for?” You watched as Brok tackled Zas to the ground and rolled around with him for a moment. You were thankful that their fire wasn’t harmful unless they intended for it to be. Because if it was always harmful the grass around them would be burnt to ash. 

“Loser has to tell the winner a secret.” You looked at him in question on if the prize was enough and his only reply was taking off in the direction of the house of wind in a blur. You tore after him, the boys followed you instantly. You bobbed and weaved through the crowd making sure not to bump into anyone. Laughs filled the air as you chased after him. He stayed a good pace ahead of you for a while until you caught up. You went neck and neck all the way up the stairs. 

Until you skifully tripped him and he yelled after you and grabbed at your ankle. Your fingers were at the landing to the house and you kicked your foot in his general direction trying to push him farther down the stairs. You were finally able to stand up and had just opened the door when he tackled you and you both fell on the floor in a fit of breathless laughter. The boys bouncing up and licking your faces as you fell onto your backs. 

“I totally won.” You both said at the same time and then glared at the other. Zas huffed at your competitive nature. 

“You cheated.” You were pointing fingers at each other, jaws both falling open at the accusations flying from the other one. 

“Where have you two been?” Nesta’s voice had you both wide eyed, like kids caught with their hand in the cookie jar before dinner. Cassian was standing behind her with a small smile on his face. 

“I gave her a tour of Velaris. This house can be quite stuffy.” The house answered his complaint by smacking him with the door he was lying beside. You took that as your cue to stand up, then offered your hand to Lucien which he gracefully accepted. Nesta watched every movement and when Lucien was standing tall beside you she spoke again. 

“I am sorry for how I have treated you in the past Lucien.” Her eyes narrowed on him and his face showed his clear surprise. His eye was wide and his mouth was gaping open and closed. You nudged him with your elbow and he shook his head.

“I accept your apology.” With his words you could see it clear, that was the first of many alliances you’d help forge.

A/N: I am so sorry for taking so long to update this series. The last couple of weeks have been insanely busy! I already have the next part of this written so I should be able to update it on Thursday no problem! As always likes, comments, reblogs and follows are much apprectiated. Thank you for reading!

Tags(open): @wolfsbane44 @moonlwghts @maddietheshoe @hyemishii @fanboyluvr @kmc1989 @acourtofinkandpapyrus @luvmoo

[acourtofinkandpapyrus]

I love the way Y/N and Lucien get along! Also I really love the detail how he smells of pumpkin, it really seems to fit him!

[acourtofinkandpapyrus]

A Flower With Petals of Flame: Part Twenty (Eris x Reader)

Warnings: mentions of drinking (not in a bad way, but it's there), anger, yelling, trauma, mentions of violence and toxic/abusive family (Eris's) Some suggestiveness and horrible flirting

Part nineteen

Tag list: @esposadomd

A/N: Yeah, I didn't keep track of how much I wrote so this one is REALLY long. Basically more secrets and flirting at the end.

I sit in the cabin with a cup of tea, sipping on it as Eris and Rhys talk.

They thought that I wasn’t listening, that I was too shell shocked or stunned to speak, but in reality I didn’t want to have to talk this through with the two of them yet.

It was almost worse listening to them while they talked about me.

“Do you knew what he was doing to my sister and didn’t think to fucking tell me!?” Rhys whisper-shouted at Eris.

I could feel the heat Eris was emitting in his rage from here as he responded through gritted teeth, “I’m sorry, but you were living there and didn’t notice.  I don’t think anything I could have said would have done a damn thing.”

I can feel the rage radiating off of both of them, and I finally have enough, slamming the cup down on the table, ignoring the pain as hot tea sloshed over the sides and onto my hands.

They’re both silent as I seethe, barely able to contain my rage.

“Stop talking about me as if I’m not here.”

Eris is smart enough not to make a peep, but Rhys steps up, speaking in low comforting tones, “Y/n, I’m so sorry.  We’re just worried about-”

I resist the urge to hurl the tea mug at his head and instead shove away from the table and get to my feet, tromping toward the door.

“Wait, where are you-”  Rhys starts but I quickly cut him off.

“If you both want to go home, follow.”  I snap, and Eris is quick to follow me.

Rhys stands there for a moment as I throw the door open, but I hear Eris murmur to him, “She will in fact leave you here.  She’ll come back, but I suggest not gambling with how long.”

Despite the rage that’s still coursing through my veins, a smile tugs at my lips as Rhys quickly moves to follow me at Eris’s warning.

He wasn’t lying.  I once left him in the middle because he was in a pissy mood.

Of course, I kept an eye on him and made sure he didn’t get eaten by kelpies or caught by the weaver.

I stop in the middle of the snow, creating the portal back to the land of the living.

As we all step through, it seems that the group we left behind is sitting in uncomfortable silence.

Without a word, I give the whole room two middle fingers and back out into a different room.

I heard somebody choking down laughter as I slammed the door behind me.  I look around and realize I’m in a bedroom.

Frustrated and exhausted I go over and sit on the bed.

When was the last time I had gotten a good night's sleep?  Or slept at all.

I stare down at the surface of the bed for only a moment before murmuring, “fuck it.”  and laying down on top, deciding to only take a short nap until someone came looking for me.

Eris:

I had checked in on Y/N and saw she was asleep, so I had kept the door closed while the rest of us started back into planning.

“This isn’t going to work, we need something more than just extra defenses.”  Rhysand growls, prowling back and forth across the room.

I tried not to roll my eyes, like we didn’t already know that.

“She’s probably got some plan for that too, but knowing Y/N, she’s going to keep it a secret until the last minute.”  Sam responds, lounging back in the large chair.  He’s incredibly small in comparison to the giant arm chair, but his threatening manner makes him appear larger.

We all pause and stare at this human for a minute, and my lips twitch, trying to form a smile against my will.

Speaking so boldly in front of a room full of fae that could absolutely destroy him if they so wanted caught all of our attention.

Though, maybe I was underestimating him.

“Do you have any idea what she’s planning at all?”  Rhys asks, his voice sharp as his violet eyes cut into Sam.

The boy smirks.  “Well, I don’t see any reason to tell you if she hasn’t yet.”

I could get used to watching Rhysand fume without being able to do anything about it.  Even if he wasn’t worried about hurting him with his fae strength, no one dared argue too hard with the human.

After all, it was clear that he and Y/N were close friends.

I wonder what her life was like, all those years… well, dead I guess.

She hadn’t talked about it, even with me.  Which either meant we just hadn’t had the time or…

I had heard what her father said, about marrying her off to one of the Asteri.  What they had tried to do to her.

“Eris?”

I snapped out of my thoughts, only to realize the chair under my fingers was smoking, the room filling with the smell of burnt leather.

 “Yes?”  I ask in a casual drawl, switching which leg I had crossed over the other as I looked at Lucien, who had noticed my strange behavior.

His jaw worked, and I realized suddenly that he was worried about me.  “I was thinking we should postpone any further discussion until Y/n’s back, do you agree?”

I’m quick to nod my head, already aware that anything we did at this point was going to dissolve into more fighting, maybe even brawling.

I wouldn’t mind throwing a punch or two right now.

Everyone grumbles, but agrees, and I suddenly remember that I am the owner of this cabin, and that it’s my responsibility to get everyone properly sorted.

So I stand, explaining that rooms would have to be shared, how many there were, and where they were at, before leaving to let them sort themselves out, manners be damned.

It was not that long ago I wouldn’t have dared to leave them to their own devices like that, to not place the cruel albeit well mannered host.

Things were changing though, and with all the rushing around, I hadn’t had time to think of the possible consequences of my actions.

My poor mother, for example.

I had scars to remind me of every blow, every lashing and cut I had received at my families hands, but the ones that had cut the deepest were not the ones I had received myself, no, but the horrors I had to watch my mother live through.

Beron had quickly found out how much I cared for her, and used it against me, threatening her everytime I dared to even look at him wrong.

It was a nightmare of an existence, and sometimes he hurt her anyway, forcing my brothers to hold me back and watch.

They had no souls, my brothers, small sinister and cowardly clones of my father.  The only family I had ever cared about was my mother and Lucien.  Two people I would happily die for.

I had already failed one, my brother a walking corpse that would soon have to leave this world.  Along with my mate.

What cruel tastes the mother has, letting me call the only female I’ve ever truly loved my mate, only to know that she would soon be whisked away once more.

I rush out the back door, gulping down breaths of fresh air.

If my father found out what I was doing, he would make sure my mother paid the price for it.

That was the reason I had been plotting to kill him, after all.  Such a thing wasn’t taken lightly in Prythian, and I only had plans to stick around long enough that Lucien became the next high lord.

Sure, maybe he’s Helion's son, and his rightful place was in the dawn court, but I wouldn’t be able to stay and rule.  Not over the court I despised, the court that let my brother’s lover be beheaded, the court that had clapped me on the back when they heard of the arranged marriage between me and The Morrigan, fully knowing how much she didn’t want it.

The court that had kept me away from Y/N.

“Eris.”

Another time I would have welcomed my brother actually worrying about me, seaking me out.

But everything was too much right now, and I had to bite back a foul response that I knew would have driven him away.

“I’m really not in the mood right now brother.”  I snarl, barely keeping the flames that boiled under the surface from exploding in a wave of fiery rage.

Lucien came over and patted me on the back anyway, the gesture awkward.  “It’s been… a rough day for everyone.”

My stomach twisted, self disgust started to eat me up.  Here I was moping after my brother quite literally died and is still walking around.

“I’m sorry.  You shouldn’t have to come and try to comfort me after… everything.”  The confession is for more than just today, and we both know it.

I remember when Lucain was a small child, I loved playing big brother, doing for him what my brothers had never done for me.

Looking at Lucien now, sometimes I forgot how different he was from the young boy that smiled crookedly because I brought him a new toy from another court.

He took my arm in his, and started to drag me off away from the cabin.

“Wait, where are we going?”  I question, not really fighting him as he drags me further into the forest.

Lucien grins at me, his hair mussed and hanging in his face.  “Well, after I realized where we were, I remembered a tavern nearby, I was thinking maybe we could get a drink.”

I couldn’t help but raise a brow.  “A drink?”

He rolled his eyes.  “If there is any time to have a drink, tonight is it, and I’d rather not go alone.”

My lips tug upward as I sigh, acting as if this was all such an inconvenience.  “I guess I could go for one drink.”

Lucien smirked, but as we walked off, I realized this was the closest I had been to my brother in a while.

Y/N:

I stir awake as a gentle arm wraps around my midsection, pulling me in and cradling me with their body.

I could recognize Eris’s scent anywhere, and snuggle into the male behind me, half asleep and a peaceful feeling enveloping me.

My eyes crack open a bit more as I scent alcohol on his breath though.

“Where did you go?”  I mumble, barely keeping my eyes open as he hummed, gently tucking my loose strands of hair behind my ear.

“Lucien took me out to get a drink.”  He says, only sounding slightly tipsy, which I am thankful for.

I smile, even as I start to drift back to sleep.

“What did you two talk about?”  I ask, the words slurring together in a haze of sleep.

Eris laughs softly, seemingly unaware of the words slipping out of his mouth as he starts to slip into a peaceful sleep next to me, “We talked about mother, and how we could help her.  I asked his advice on what to do with the court, because I have no plans to leave your side.”

His face snuggles into the crook of my neck, finally falling asleep.

But now I am awake.  Wide awake.

I had forgotten.  How had I forgotten?

He always told me what Beron did to his mother, and we had both always been helpless to stop it.

But now…

But now I had power.  Now I could do something.

The thought eats me up from the inside.  It would be so easy to go over to the autumn court and put that miserable piece of shit in his place

I soon realize that I’m not going to get anymore sleep, and carefully detach myself from Eris, making sure not to wake him.

He reaches out for me after I stand, his face scrunching up unhappily in his sleep at my absence, andI debate just laying back down.

But this was something I had to do.

There was nothing I could do about my father with my mother’s life on the line, but I could save his.

So I shrug on a coat and head out the door, winnowing after I was a good distance from the cabin.

The autumn court was just as detestable as it was when I last saw it.  If anything, it had gotten worse, the poor getting poorer and the rich becoming more and more powerful.

Anyone who stepped foot in this court could tell there was something brewing, but right now, that worked to my advantage.

The halls are empty at this early hour and my footsteps echo in the long extravagant halls, unable to escape the gold no matter where you look, from the baseboards to the intricately carved furniture.

I had traveled enough that even if I didn’t know the high lord, I would be able to recognise his arrogance and haughtiness just from how he decorated.

I entered the throne room, and just as I had hoped, he had been aware of my presence in the castle, and severely underestimated me.

Otherwise, he wouldn’t be so relaxed on his throne with no guards nearby.

“You’re usually supposed to bow to your superiors.”  He drawls, and I let my mouth tilt into a crooked little smile.

Maybe Rhys had the mask of the vicious high lord and Eris had the mask of the arrogant monster, but I’d been living with many masks all my life.

And the one of the angry goddess was my favorite.

I let my power sort of ooze from me, swirling along the floor and covering the walls, letting the cover of night without the aid of stars cover every inch of the room except for a small circle around Berons golden throne.

His enraged and slightly terrified face was staring right at me, and I let my teeth grow slightly, partially turning into that beastly form some members of our family could become and forming black talons on the ends of my delicate fingers, my wings starker and their talons even sharper.

A crooked halo of starlight appears above my head, adding to the utterly terrifying expression I wore as I cloak myself in the swirling darkness.

“What were you saying about superiors Beron?”  I ask in a lilting voice, taunting him.

He carefully schools his face back into one of nonchalant, but I can still see the fear behind his eyes as he readjusts into an even more guarded pose.

“What is it exactly that you want, bat?” He spat, and my grin split wider across my face and I walked closer to his throne, the night rippling in my wake.

He leaned back, almost scrabbling as I stood right in front of him, grinning down at him as my eye glowed with sheer power.

“What I want…”  I start, making a god awful noise as I scrape my talon along the gold armrest of his throne, leaving a long gash.  “Is to make a bargain lord.”

His face is torn between rage and curiosity.

I think his fear is the deciding factor, because he relents and asks, “What sort of bargain?”

I smile, stepping back just enough to give him room to breathe, but not enough to let him relax.

“You don’t lay a hand on Eris, Lucien or your wife again.  You don’t have anyone else hurt them, you don’t let them get hurt mentally or physically by yourself or anyone or anything you know is going to hurt them. And I don’t kill you.  Good deal?”

I had thought it out as best as I could in the last hour, and maybe it was a bit repetitive, but it covered all the bases.

I had never been good at bargains, but this one was the most important I had ever made, and I wasn’t going to slip up and leave a loophole for this bastard.

He mulls it over, and I hold my breath.  I truly hadn’t thought it would be this easy.

“No.  How am I supposed to get anything done if I’m always worried about hurting them mentally?”  He asks, rolling his eyes.

Even though I’m surprised it’s not an outright no, I’m still hesitant.

But what else could he do?  If the worst it was going to be was him speaking nastily to them, that I could handle.

And if he tried to go after me, or Helion if he ever found out, we could handle him.

It’s times like these I was glad Eris let me in on that little secret.  Maybe I’d give Helion a little heads up Beron might be coming after him to get to his mate.

If Eris’s mother ever wanted to leave, I would help.

So, reluctantly, I nod. “Alright, so you don’t hurt or have any of them hurt physically and I don’t k-”

“You also don’t injure me in any way.”  He interupts, grinning, and I have to battle with myself not to kill him right now.

I need the other courts to support me in case the Asteri actually made it here.

Killing Beron, despite how awful he is, would scare the rest of them off.

I groan.  “Fine.  I don’t harm you in any way and you don’t physically hurt Lucien, Eris, their mother, or have them hurt.”

He nods.  “It’s a bargain.”

Eris:

I wake up alone, and I start to worry, pulling lightly on the fiery bond that now ran between me and Y/N.

She hadn’t said anything about it yet, and there was a consistent worry in the back of my head.

What if she didn’t want it?  To be tied to me like that?

After everything I’d done, I wouldn’t blame her.

A comforting wave of emotions washed over me, pulling me from my thoughts and I smiled.

Whatever she was up to, she was okay.

I go to get out of bed, but I'm surprised as a flower tumbles from the sheets, a red carnation lies next to me, making me smile even wider as I take it and place it in an empty vase.

I realize that all of the clothing I currently have in the closet is more comfortable than fancy.  I kept emergency outfits in a chest in the attic, but I would have to go through one of the rooms I had assigned to the others to get to it.

I start to worry about it, but I just pick out the best looking sweater and the only pair of slacks in the closet and head out into the main room.

The only one there is Nesta, and I can’t help it as a mischievous smile works its way onto my face, planning something.

Nesta doesn’t notice me yet, but her head swivels as Y/n walks in the front door, slightly glowing with power as she flexes her fingers as if trying to expel something.

Her eyes met mine for only a moment before she sauntered over to Nesta, leaning against the wall.  “So how are you doing this morning my lady?”  She asks, and I’m shocked at the lower inviting tone she uses.

Even more surprised when for a moment, Nesta seems speechless.

I tug on the bond and Y/N lets her eyes slowly move to mine, raising an eyebrow, and I realize what this was about.

So she was going to flirt with Nesta because of that time I had danced with Nesta.  Not because she was jealous, no Y/n wasn’t that type of person.

She was trying to one up me.

Challenge accepted.

Y/N:

Eris starts to walk over, and I can’t help the excitement that sparks between us through the bond.  This was going to be fun.

I smirk at Nesta as she finally finds her voice.  “I am doing just fine.  Where were you all night?”

My eyes sparkle, and I taunt, “Why?  Were you searching for me last night, Nesta?”  I ask, rolling her name off my tongue as if it didn’t want to leave my tongue.

She straightened up a little bit, but before she could respond Eris was already at her other side, his pretty eyes trained solely on her.

“Now, come dear, if she was looking for anyone, she would have been looking for me.”  He says smoothly, his voice dropping an octave.

Nesta is struggling to hide the blush creeping up on her face, and I wonder how far we can push her before she punches one or both of us.

Instead to my surprise I hear more than see Cassian enter, eyebrow arched.  “I might have expected this sort of behavior from Eris, but from you y/n?”  He tries to make it come out playful, but it’s obvious his feathers are ruffled.

No way in hell I was letting Eris win this little game, so I turned to Cassian with my lashes lowered, looking at him as I asked innocently, “What, feeling left out Cass?  I can fix that.”

He practically spits out his drink, and Nesta holds back laughter at seeing Cassian sputter.

There’s a warning tug on the bond and I grin even wider, careful not to look at him as Cassian quickly came over and whispered to Nesta, “Let’s head out and let these two sort out whatever shit is causing this.”  He tells her with a grin and she nods, smirking a little.

“Hey Nesta, you know there’s a reason they call him Cassian-”  I say, smacking his ass right before Eris came over and picked me up, winnowing us away.

He slams the door to his room shut, but not before I can hear Nesta’s cackling laughter.

Eris and I stare at each other for a minute before he breaks down into a fit of laughter.  “You fucking smacked- you-”  He wheezes, and I grin.

“Well, I was running out of ideas and I’d been thinking about that pun for a while.”  I explain, blushing a little now that what I had done was sinking in.

He cocks an eyebrow at me as he starts to calm down.  “Exactly how much time did you spend thinking about Cassian’s ass?”

I scoff and shove him lightly.  “What a dirty mind you have, Eris.”  I tease, and his hands land on my hips, pulling me into him.

“The perfect match for your dirty mouth, petal.”  He says, nuzzling my neck.

I let out a breathy little laugh, wrapping my arms around his neck and tilting my head to give him better access.  “Since when did you call me petal?”

He hums against my skin and my toes curl in my shoes.  “Since you left me a flower for me to wake up to.”

I blush, having forgotten that little thing I had done to hopefully ease his worry. 

I let out a little snort, and he pulls back to look at me, his head tilting curiously.  “What’s funny Petal?”

Shaking my head, I’m quick to explain, “If I’m a flower, I’m no normal one.  More likely one made out of metal or flame, quick to cut and burn.”

He sees it for what it is, not something I’m ashamed of, just something that happens to be true, something I could be proud of.

Something sparks in his eyes and he grins, and I can’t help but try and save that image with his hair mussed and a look of pure excitement and joy.

“Turn around.”  He insisted and I can’t help but chuckle as I do.

I can sense his magic, and I struggle to stay turned around, patience not being one of my strong suits.

He tapped on my shoulder, and I whirled around excitedly, gasping as I saw what he held in his hands.

It was a flower made of flame, hovering slightly over his hands.

He gestured for me to take it, and I was careful as I reached my hands out, letting it hover above my cupped hands, the warmth radiating off of it comforting.

I hadn’t realized how long I was staring into the beautiful flower until he gently tilted my head up with a single finger, leaning his forehead against mine as he whispered, “My perfect fiery petal.”

I smiled, letting him hold me a while longer, hoping he didn’t notice the spattering of ink that painted the top half of my back, not unlike drops of blood.

A subtle threatening tattoo to mark the bargain I had made with his father.

I couldn’t help but wonder if I’d fallen into some trap, even though everything was fine.

Everything was fine.

It had to be.

[tadpolesonalgae]

Picrew!!

I love ghostly stuff and normally I don’t do these because they make me nervous but this one looked so cool I wanted to share!!

It’s a spooky lil’ picrew (the art style is so pretty I actually can’t, like look at it and tell me you don’t want to try it out)

I got the idea from here and knew immediately I wanted to give it a go! 🎃

Tagging: @azrielhours @illyrian-dreamer @jeannineee @whisperingmidnights @leafsandstarlight @thelov3lybookworm @cupidojenphrodite @needylilgal022 (of course only if you feel like it!)

And anyone else who’d like to give this a go! 🧡💛

[illyrian-dreamer]

Aw hehe I love being a creepy eepy doll! Coralline vibes!

Tagging @brekkershadowsinger @acourtofwhatthefuck @bubbles-for-all-of-us @fieldofdaisiies @kennedy-brooke @throneofsapphics @aroseinvelaris @jeannineee

[throneofsapphics]

this was so fun!

thank you for tagging me! @illyrian-dreamer

tagging: @danikamariewrites @rowaelinsdaughter @leafsandstarlight @shadowdaddies @thehighladywrites @throneofsmut

[shadowdaddies]

thank you for the tags @throneofsapphics @v3lv3tf0x 💜

tagging (no pressure): @rowaelinsdaughter @tsunami-of-tears @acourtofinkandpapyrus and anyone else who wants to do it💜

[acourtofinkandpapyrus]

Hi! Meet my socially award, paranoid imagination as this picrew!

This was an absolute blast! Thank you for tagging me @shadowdaddies !

Tag list: <3 @foreverrandomwritings @acourtofbooksandshadows

[acourtofbooksandshadows]

Not So Routine - Chapter 5

Summary: Seeing your mates at dinner goes a bit unexpected.

Pairings: Eventual!Nessian x Afab!Reader Mor x Afab!Reader

Warnings: Cussing, death, wing amputation, affairs, childbirth, alcohol and anxiety.

Word count:1410

Bookshelf Series Bookshelf

You were more than happy to see that everyone was in fact dressed as you were. The High Lord and High Lady who greeted you at the door were both dressed impeccably. He wore a black suit that oozed authority and she wore a matching black dress that made her look just as powerful. 

The spymaster was walking down the stairs in fitted black pants and a fitted black button down. His wings flared out behind him. Amren was wearing a floor length black dress, with spaghetti straps that was slightly loose on her figure. But the jewelry she wore made up for the simplicity of the dress. Then there was Elain who came gliding in from the gardens in a beautiful floral dress. On her hip was baby Nyx who reached for his mother instantly upon laying eyes on her. 

They all greeted you with kindness and that eased you instantly. Rhysand and Feyre insisted you use their names rather than their titles. Yet you still caught yourself slipping up as you thanked them again and again for welcoming you into their home. Mor could tell you were getting antsy as you waited to see your mates. 

“When will Nesta and Cassian be here? I am just famished.” She asked the question casually as you all walked to the large dining room. She made sure that you were seated before taking a seat beside you.

“Should be any moment.” Feyre reassured her and you felt a sense of calm overtake you at the prospect of laying eyes on the male and female once again. But nothing could prepare you when they walked through the doorway into the dining room. 

They both looked utterly and completely divine. Cassian had on the same tight fitting black pants that Azriel had on. But his shirt was a dark red almost like blood. He had the sleeves rolled up a bit showcasing the beginning of his tattoos. His hair was put up in a half up bun much like the first time you had seen him. You couldn’t help but wonder what his hair would feel like dancing across your skin as he trailed open mouthed kiss after open mouthed kiss along your skin. 

Then you took in Nesta, she had on a skin tight black dress. The sleeves were long but the neckline was plunging much like your own. The back of the dress was a lace material that showed off her soft looking skin deliciously. She had one slit that ran along her right leg and you were desperate to feel her leg over your shoulder as you ravished her. Her jewelry matched the color of Cassian's shirt perfectly. Her hair was pinned up delicately in braids that were placed to look as a crown. 

You realized then that Mor had somehow color coordinated your own outfit with theirs. Your jaw dropped as you turned to look at her. A small mischievous smile danced upon her lips and her eyes were nothing but playful. You knew she had planned the subtle reds you wore for a reason but you never thought it would be to match your mates who now sat across from you. 

“I can’t quite place it but you look so familiar.” Rhysands voice brought you out of your momentary daze. You moved down in your seat ever so slowly. Willing the scars on your back to disappear as you took in a shaking breath. 

“I think that would be because you know my father and you knew my mother.” Everyone at the table except for Mor and Amren seemed to lean in as you spoke. The sight only made you even more nervous as you began to bite on your bottom lip aggressively. 

“Who is your father?” It was Cassian that spoke. The sound of his voice had you calming down ever so slightly. Nuala and Cerriwden started to place plates of food in front of all of you. 

“Lord Devlon of Windhaven.” You pushed a piece of food around your plate with your fork as you muttered the sentence. If they didn’t have fae hearing you would’ve been worried they didn’t hear you.

“I’m sorry, did you just say Lord Devlon of Windhaven?” You nodded slowly at Rhysands question as you continued to look at your plate. You refused to meet their eyes, not wanting to see what emotions laid within them. 

“Lord Devlon doesn’t have a daughter though.” Cassian was quick to say and his sentence was full of accusations. Your soul ached at the feeling of judgment from your mate. 

“Cassian.” his name was said in a warning and you were grateful for Nesta cutting in because you were starting to feel a little nauseous. 

“I was born the night of a blood rite when you were younger. He used the chaos of the event to lock me away with his wife.” Mor laid a soothing hand on your shoulder, she had held you as you had cried to her about the horrible childhood you’d had many nights. She had soothed you after you awoke from nightmares on many occasions as well. Just as you did for her. 

“Is his wife not your mother?” You knew the question was bound to come but that didn’t mean you wanted to answer it. But because it was Feyre that asked you decided you would answer. 

“No. Rhysands mothers best friend who was also her handmaid was my mother.” That seemed to utterly shock him as well as the others around the table.

“Lord Devlon had an affair?” You let out a loud snort at that question, finally looking up from your plate. Everyone eyed you curiously at your reaction to the question. 

“Unless he’s dead then he still is.” The thought of your fathers demise crossed your mind briefly but still caused a smile to grace your lips. 

“I remember her being pregnant but one day she just kind of disappeared. Your mother died during childbirth didn’t she?” That question had the smile wiped off your face instantly. You never knew much of your mother growing up and it was something you would never forgive your father for. But he never let you forget what you had done to her. 

“Her fae body couldn’t handle the wings.” It was as simple as that. But that sentence had caused everyone around the table to falter. You glanced at Nyx with his beautiful wings before glancing at Feyre and giving her a gentle smile which she returned. 

“But you don’t have wings.” It was Elain that piped up. It was actually the first thing she had said all night. You scooted back up in your seat as you looked down at your hands that were now clasped together in your lap.

“On my first bleeding my father had me sent to Ironcrest where they cut them from my back. Not that it mattered all that much. I hadn’t been allowed to leave the house anyways.” Your back was straight and your voice was cold as you responded. You didn’t bother to look around the table. But you took great comfort in the way Mor’s thumb drew soft circles into the skin of your shoulder. 

“Your mother had caught wind of what was happening. She flew to the camp and saved me from the infection that had quickly overtaken my body by bringing me here.” The scars on your back ached as you retold the awful memory. You had tears tracking down your face as you looked back up at Rhysand. He had a look of calm fury on his own face. The feeling of complete and utter rage soared down the bond and had a small sob leaving your mouth. Your eyes tore from the High Lords to your mates and you were met with equal looks of fury. 

“I’ll have it taken care of.” And before you could reassure Rhysand that he didn’t need to fret over it the Illyrian spymaster was disappearing within his shadows. Your eyes met Mor’s and she gave you a reassuring nod. 

“Anyone up for more wine?” A relieved sigh left your lips as you mouthed a thank you her way. You were happy that your past didn’t seem to deter them away from you. You wiped your tears away and glanced back at your mates once more. A serene sense of calm took over you at the fact they were so close.

A/N: Anybody else surprised by that plot twist? As always likes, comments, follows and reblogs are much appreciated. Thank you all so much for reading.

Tags(open): @kmc1989 @dream-alittlebiggerdarling @luvmoo @wolfsbane44 @acourtofinkandpapyrus @moonlwghts @maddietheshoe @hyemishii @fanboyluvr @starswholistenanddreamsanswered @pinksmellslikelove @waytoomanyteenagefeels @littlebbb

[acourtofinkandpapyrus]

....I swear, Azriel better make lord Devlon suffer, because if he doesn't I will.

[acourtofbooksandshadows]

Alliance Maker - Chapter 8

Summary: You expel some of your power and Lucien starts to grow suspicious.

Pairing: Slow burn!Azriel x Afab!Reader

Warnings:Blood, anxiety, Hybern, fire, passing out, swearing and yea.

Word count:1645

Masterlist Series Masterlist

The next morning was easy. Nesta came to wake you up for training and you explained to her you needed to sleep as much as possible before releasing so much energy later. She was going to argue with you but Cassian had shook his head at her from his spot next to her in the hall. Then they slipped away to the rooftop for training. The house gave you breakfast and lunch when you woke up to use the bathroom. You only awoke two more times due to nightmares, which was a miracle. Each time you did the cooling touch of the shadows soothed you back to sleep. 

Before you knew it you were standing in a large field, the grass was soft, flowers of all colors sporadically sprouted across the ground. The trees stood tall in various shades of green seemingly caging in the field. The sky above you was a perfect shade of blue, clouds sparsely present. Then there was the Fae you were with. Nesta and Cassian stood together, not too far from you. Feyre and Rhysand stood farther away, deep in a silent discussion. Lucien stood awkwardly beside you and Azriel was leaning against a tree on the edge of the field. 

“So how exactly are you going to disperse this energy?” Cassian piped up as you pulled a piece of carefully wrapped cake from your house provided pack. 

“You’re just going to have to wait and see, lord of impatience.” You shrugged as though it was the simplest thing, taking a large bite of the cake. A groan rumbling in your chest as the flavor of it coated your tongue. 

“Where’d you even get that?” Cassian asked and you could sense a bit of jealousy in his words. Nesta rolled her eyes at him and Lucien held back a snort. 

“The House gave it to me before we left.” You broke the piece in half and handed the rest to Lucien who curled up one eyebrow before shrugging and grabbing the cake and taking a bite. 

“You’ll need the bit of sugar rush for your help that I’m going to need.” He nodded his head in reply, then you both took another bite of the cake. You burned the wrapper in your hand after finishing the cake, the ashes falling to the ground as you turned your palm over and shook your hand off. 

“Let’s get started.” Rhysand said as he and Feyre walked towards you. That’s when all of the nerves set in. You had dispersed your energy countless times but had never done it in front of such a big crowd. The process was normally so robotic but you didn’t have your normal accomplice with you this time. You nodded your head before dancing your fingers in the air, then much to everyone's surprise two hounds made of flame tore through the grass. They yipped and played with one another before bounding towards you and licking your hands. The shadows wrapped around your skin danced excitedly as they watched the hounds. 

“I’ve missed you both as well. I won’t wait this long again, I promise.” You knelt down in front of them, petting them both gingerly. You missed the look of pure shock on Lucien's face as you gave both the hounds a kiss before they went back to playing. Not a burn mark was in sight in their wake, but the fire coming from them waved in the air as they ran. Some of Azriel’s shadows had slipped away from the shadowsinger and chased them through the grass. 

“I decided to start small, meet Brok and Zas.” You told the group as you stood up from the ground watching the two playing with a look of adoration and love in your eyes. 

“Do you need us to do anything?” Feyre’s calm voice spoke up from her position beside Rhysand. Everyone stood a little straighter ready to help if needed.

“Do any of you have the gift of water or ice?” You asked them hopefully, eyes scanning them quickly, Feyre perked up at the question.

“I have both.” You gave her a beaming smile and opened up the pack and took out a blanket. The material was dense, a spell that had been weaved into the object made it fireproof. 

“I will need Lucien to form a barrier of fire around me. Once I drop I will need you to immediately douse me in the coldest water you can make.” Your eyes didn’t leave hers as you spoke. Anxiety caused the next instruction to leave your mouth awkwardly. 

“I will end up passing out and my skin will still be too hot to touch. I will need someone to take me back to the house of wind. Since Lucien is staying there it’ll be more convenient for him to take me.” Your eyes then flicked over to his waiting form. The anxiety of having a male touch you started to eat away at your chest but you took a deep breath centering yourself. It had been a while since you had trusted a male enough to touch you but you knew you could trust Lucien. 

“You will be the only one from the house of wind that will be able to lay a hand on me. I am putting my full trust in you to get me back safely.” He could see the hesitation in your eyes but he did not back down. He gave you a look that looked so familiar, a feeling of home settled within your chest and you gave him a small smile. 

“I will be asleep for the rest of the night and all day tomorrow. Could you and Feyre wrap this around me carefully before he carries me?” Your eyes moved to Nesta as you spoke, wanting to reassure her you’d be okay. Not wanting her to worry when you knew she would. She held her hand out for the blanket. Her eyes that had pinned Lucien to his spot in a silent threat met your own. They were cold, but you knew she was worried with the way she took in your form once and then twice. 

“Can everyone please back up?” They did as you asked. You looked at your hounds rolling around in the grass, before looking over where Azriel was still propped against his tree, he was just a little straighter than he was before. You felt a cool reassuring touch on the back of your neck. Then you scanned the group quickly, the anxiety finally bubbling over. You had to beg the shadows that had been attached to you to return to their master. 

“Lucien?” That’s all you had to say and a barrier of fire was wrapped around you. A large dome like structure that you were praying to the mother wouldn’t waver. Your wings disappeared as your fingers flexed. You rolled your head back and then forwards, shaking out your arms once. Your skin became rapidly hot. With one shaky breath you exploded.

Fire hit the barrier in aggressive waves. You could feel that thing inside you once again trying to claw its way out. Every fiber of your body felt like it was being torn apart and put back together. But you wouldn’t let it. Wouldn’t let yourself lose control in front of these Fae that you barely knew. 

Minutes that felt like days passed and you dropped to your knees. Your head thrown back between your shoulders, eyes looking up at the sky through the combined fire of yours and Luciens. Had someone been inside the ball of fire with you they would have noticed that your eyes were changing. They were the perfect match to the fire coming from your body.

A scream erupted from your chest as you flung your arms out to your sides. You weren’t able to see the reactions of those around you. The way that Nesta held onto Cassian's arm tightly. The way that Cassian's siphons started to flare a protective shield coming up around him and his mate. The way that Rhysand looked at you with pure and utter surprise. Yet he was ready to take you down if things got out of hand. Feyre stood ready for the task you had given her. 

Then there was Azriel, whose shadows yanked him towards the group. They were whipping across the grass frantically. Desperately trying to reach you through the shield Lucien was maintaining steadily. The Illyrian however sat there frightened yet intrigued. Your hounds whined as they looked upon you, but they sat at the edges of Cassian's shield patiently. They knew that once your power drained they would disappear for a while. Going back to the in between until being brought back out. 

Memories of your life flashed through your head rapidly. The childhood you were lucky enough to escape. The love of your father that helped to heal you. Then there were the memories of your time within the walls of Hybern. The fear soared through you causing another scream to rip from your throat, your hands growing taught as fire continued to rapidly escape you. Getting dumped into the cauldron was the next memory. The gentle caress it gave you forever seared into your brain. 

You let that slowly ease you. You could feel the last bit of energy starting to leave the chest of power inside of you. Your body shaking as your limbs grew heavier. Lungs rapidly trying to take in air. Blood poured from your eyes, nose and fingertips. A pounding sensation smacked through your head. Black dots started to pop up in your vision. Your throat burned as you let out a roar, fire scratching up your throat and releasing from your mouth and then you collapsed. The lid to the chest that was normally sealed tightly slammed shut.

Brok and Zas:

A/N:Not much Az but there will be in the next chapter! As always likes, comments, follows and reblogs are much appreciated.

Tags(open): @wolfsbane44 @moonlwghts @maddietheshoe @hyemishii @fanboyluvr @kmc1989 @acourtofinkandpapyrus @luvmoo

[acourtofinkandpapyrus]

OKAY, AN UNEXPECTED JOY I DID NOT KNOW I NEEDED IN MY LIFE WERE FIRE PUPPIES

[acourtofinkandpapyrus]

A Flower With Petals of Flame: Part nineteen (Eris x Reader)

Warnings: Mentions of trauma, toxic father, mentions of past attempted SA on reader. Emphases on attempted. Arguing, secrets

Part eighteen Part twenty

Tag list: @esposadomd

Call me a magician because I pulled this out of nowhere! A second post in one night! So this is mostly a fun episode where Y/n hangs out with Eris and Rhys in a cabin. That is until her father shows up...

The place we end up in is not too unlike the illyrian mountains back home, but as we step into the snowy landscape, I feel as if I’ve come back alive, not slowly losing myself as I have been for the past few months.

There’s a cabin in the distance, and I start trudging toward it.

I start to feel warm, and I realize it’s Eris’s doing, even if he’s not looking at me.

My brother seems to still be freezing his ass off though.

“So this is where Dad’s living?”  Rhys asks, looking at the small cabin.  I shake my head, gritting my teeth.

“No, this is where he meets up with me.  He and mom live elsewhere.”  I shout, trying to get him to hear me as the wind starts to pick up.

I can’t hear his reply, and don’t bother to look, focusing on their sorry asses into the cabin.

That is until I hear a crash, and I see both of them in the snow, rhys trying to get off of Eris as fast as possible.

“What is wrong with you two?!”  I shout over the wind, and they both talk over each other in their attempts to respond.

“It was his fau-”  “He tripped me-”

I don’t even bother to figure out who's saying what, turning around and muttering about stupid males as I throw the door open, heading straight to the fireplace.

The sounds of the males entering after me and closing the door has me jumping into speech, “You two are going to behave.  However you remember my father being, he’s worse now.”  I warn them, remembering the last time I went head to head with him.

“We aren’t children Y/N.”  Eris bristled, and I rolled my eyes.

Rhys took a step up to him, looming over him ominously.  “Maybe my sister loves you, but if I hear you speak to her in that tone again, I’m going to rip your throat out.” He growled.

I choke on nothing, dropping the log I had just picked up, almost smashing my foot.  “Behave!”  I scold, trying to imagine a situation where we manage to get my father to come back to Velaris without burning the whole house to the ground.

They both bristel, but they settle down a little.

Without a word, once I finish piling the logs into the fireplace, Eris lights it up without a word.

Rhysand sits down and he huffs a laugh.  “Hey, his style seems to have stayed the same.”

A smile pulls at my lips.  He was right, everything was stuffy and formal, extremely uncomfortable.  I have memories as a child of sitting on the floor because of how stiff all of the couches were, preferring the carpet.

“If you two want anything to eat or drink, the kitchens that way.”  I say, gesturing to the hall and plopping down on the couch, next to Rhys, grimacing.

Still as hard as rock.

Rhys seemed surprised, but Eris just chuckled.

I groaned as Rhys’s head whipped around to look at Eris.  “Something funny?”

Eris shrugs, a smug smile on his face.  “I don’t know, just the fact that you think your sister was going to play housemaid.”

I close my eyes.  I needed sleep, that’s what I needed.  But instead, I was getting stupid quibbling from my brother and my mate.

My mate.

I hadn’t really had time to think about it.

Somewhere deep down, I think I had always known.  I had never cared for someone the way I had for him, and if he wasn’t my mate, then I didn’t want one.

Something goes flying past my head and my moment of peaceful thoughts is gone.

The dagger imbeds itself in the wall beside my head, and I look between the two, and they are both paused mid argument, staring at me.

At some point Rhysand had gotten up, and the dagger had flown in their scuffle.

I sigh, using my magic to winnow the dagger into my hand.  It was one of Rhys’s.

“If you two can’t get along, I am going to throw you into the snow until I’m done, capiche?”  I say, staring both of them down.

Rhys hangs his head a little bit, but Eris just looks away with a huff.

“Sit down.”  I order both of them, waving the dagger around.

They did, and I just stared at both of them for a minute.  “We are all going to say one thing that’s bugging us about the other two.  How about I start?”

“The two people I care the most about can’t get along in the same room for five seconds.”  I say, then pointing the dagger at my brother, the tip pointing downward so he knows I’m not going to stab him or anything.  “Now you.”

He gives me a sort of “Why me?”  look before relenting, taking a deep breath.  “I don’t like how Eris seems to think all of this is a game for his enjoyment, and I don’t like that you didn’t tell me you could have lost all your memories.”

Eris snorts before adding, “She didn’t tell me either.  Not only that, but apparently there’s other things that she’s just not going to tell us.”

I slowly get up as Rhysand starts to respond.

Of course.  Of course they were going to bond over me not telling them things.

“She came back from the dead and just acted as if everything was normal.  I mean, I would have been fine if she had just told me she wasn’t the same person that…”

I make it into the kitchen without them noticing and get myself a glass of water.

This was a horrible mistake.  I should have left them at home.  If Dad comes by and decides to start bringing up what happened.

I chug the water, trying to take my mind off the possibility.

“Hey, are you okay?”  I turn to see Eris leaning against the door frame, still a hint of a smile on his face.

“Nope, but I thought I made that clear.”  I respond, rinsing off the cup and putting it back.

He shifts, entering the room.  “You know you can talk to me, right?”

I sigh.  “If you’re saying this because of what I’m not telling you, it’s not like the memories thing.  It’s not time sensitive and it’s really not important.”

“Then why did you not tell me you told me everything if it’s not important?”  He questions as I push past him, going back into the living room.

“Because I wasn’t sure, but I am now.”  I say, plopping back down on the couch.

Rhys winnows into the seat next to me.  “What are you sure about?”  He asks, batting his lashes at me.

I look between the two of them and groan.  “I know what you two are doing.”

Rhys lays down across my lap and I roll my eyes as he says, “I have no idea what you’re talking about dear sister.”

“The two of you begging isn’t going to make me change my mind.”  I say, pushing out of my lap.

He dramatically rolled off the couch and onto the floor, and Eris chuckled.  “We’re just worried.  Can’t you put our minds at ease?”

“I can play uno.”  I say, heading over to a box on a bookshelf, pulling out a deck of cards.

Rhys looked up at me curiously from where he lounged on the floor.  “What’s that?”

I grin.

I manage to keep them entertained and distracted enough not to ask me questions for a few hours, pulling out all the games we didn’t have in Prythian.

Monopoly was the worst, since Rhys wouldn’t stop using magic to put his face on the money, and Sorry the best.  Mostly because they could beat each other up in the game, and I didn’t have to worry about physical violence.

I got up as I heard a knock at the door, the boys too busy bickering about the rules of the current game to notice.

I open the door a crack, and lose my smile as I see my father standing outside in a suit, not a single hair out of place.

Before he can make himself known, I quickly step outside, shutting the door behind me.

“So you’ve decided to let Rhysand in on the secret of the afterlife.  And was that Beron’s son I saw?”  He asks, his face splitting into a nasty grin.

We have had many arguments about bringing Rhysand into the fold, but I had always turned it down.

If there was one thing I have learned, it’s that I could not trust my father.  He always had his own agenda, and if he wanted Rhys to know, it was better that he didn’t.

“That was Eris, yes.  But what I’m here to talk about is Velaris.  It’s in danger.”  I state, getting right to the point.

“Oh?  And I thought you’d finally decided to take me up on my offer.”

I stiffen.

I hadn’t seen my mother in years.  I had tried to find her, but my father had taken her and hidden her away somewhere.

He told me that he'd only let me see her if I came to live with them and gave up on all this “nonsense”.

Of course he wanted a bargain.  I, of course, said no.

“No.  But I do need your help.”  I grit out, hating the way the words taste.

He toned down his smile, knowing he had the upper hand.  Bastard.

“Well, I knew this day would come.”  He says with a flourish, coming over to me and placing his hands on my shoulders.  “Of course I’ll come back and help run-”

“Oh fuck you.”  I snarl, slamming him away and sending him tumbling, his eyes wide.  “We need help because Velaris is about to be under siege, and I need help strengthening the defenses.”

I stepped up to him, even though I could not reach his height, I made up for it with my rage.  “My brother could live the rest of his life happily without seeing you again, but I need your help.  So whatever the hell price you demand, demand it from me.”

We stare at each other, and his eyes narrow slightly, his lips tugging upward again.  “I want you to come home after all this is over.”

I take a deep breath, closing my eyes.  “Okay.”

He blinks, surprised.  “I don’t want you hanging out with those ruffians anymore.”

I want to scream, to tear him apart.  But instead, I say softly, “Those are my friends.”

He scoffs.  “Some friends they are.  Well, you won’t be consorting with their type anymore.”

For Velaris.

“I-”

No.

“No.”  I say, holding my shoulders higher.  “I’ll go back with you, I’ll live with you and mom, but I will not let you control my life anymore.”

He stares down at me, shrugging.  “I guess you’re on your own then.”  He turns on his heel, walking off.

“You’re seriously just going to let Velaris get destroyed over this?”  I shout, following him deeper into the snow.

He turned, snarling as he loomed over me, “No. You are going to let Velaris get destroyed because you’re petty enough to let a whole city burn because you want to spite me.”

I hadn’t realized I had curled into myself.  I take a step back, feeling like the little girl he put through hell again.  “It’s not like that-”

“Of course it is.  It’s always been to hurt me.  I arranged for you to marry an Asteri so that you could keep your family safe, and you ran away on the day after your wedding.”  He sneered.

My stomach flipped.  “You married me to people who had tortured me.  Of course I ran away.”  I say, my voice smaller and meeker than I wanted.

He took another step towards me and I barely avoid falling backwards into the snow.  “You never told me about your wedding night.  Maybe you just left because you didn’t like-”

“I never let him touch me.”  I manage to get out, ice tears starting to form around my eyes.

“He tried, and I stabbed him.  That’s how I got out.  So if you think you’re going to use some sort of trauma against me, think again.”I manage to say before taking a step back.

He snorted.  “You know, maybe if he had you wouldn’t be such a-”

A wave of darkness crashed into him, and I turned to see Rhysand and Eris standing side by side, glowing with rage in the snow.

I blanch as I see them there.  How much had they heard?

Rhysand winnowed forward.  “What the fuck did you do?”  And I knew then that he heard all of it, or at least the important parts.

Eris came up next to me, looking at me questioningly.

I shake my head.  “Let him handle this.  He needs it.”

My father made to stand, but Rhys pinned him to the ground, using an Illyrian technique I recognised.

“I did what I had to for the family.”  My father hissed, and I watched as Rhys’s fist fly through the air.

I took a step forward.  Even if I hated him, even if I watched him hurt me over and over again, I didn’t want to see my father hurt.

Eris takes my arm, and we’re suddenly in the cabin.

He turns me toward him and pulls me into a tight hug.  “Rhys won’t kill him, just let them work it out.”  He murmurs into my hair.

“I know.  I know I shouldn’t care about that asshole, but I do.”  I say angrily into his chest.  Wishing that my heart would stop twisting in pain.

My father never loved me.  I forget that sometimes.  Maybe when I was a baby, but ever since I became me, he never loved me.

“Sometimes our heart does funny things.”  Eris reassures me, running a hand through my hair.

The cabin is all too quiet as he holds me, and my fathers words all too lasting.

[acourtofinkandpapyrus]

A Flower With Petals of Flame: Part eighteen (Eris x Reader)

Warnings: Betrayal, arguing, mentions of possible memory loss o-o

Part seventeen Part nineteen

Tag list: @esposadomd

Sorry for being gone for so long! I was sick and was barely keeping up with life. Y/N goes back to find Eris, and secrets are revealed. After gathering some people together, they have to go find someone Y/N isn't exactly happy to go see.

I sit with the inner circle, awkwardly sipping a cup of coffee.

It was going to be a long night.

“I kind of have to get back-  I may have told Eris I was going somewhere else and he’s probably getting worried.”  I say, shifting uncomfortably.

Rhys had offered me a shower after we got in, and even after the rain, I was covered in blood, so I accepted.

He must have talked to the others while I did, because they were all… softer?  They still seemed hurt, but not full of rage.

The problem was that it was easier to leave when people were angry with you.

“Well you can’t bring him here.”  Cassian murmured, causing me to huff a laugh.

“I wouldn’t do that unless everyone here was comfortable with it, and I know you’re not.” I say, trying to sound comforting.

He shifts uncomfortably, and I see Nesta nudge him discreetly.  “Thank you.”  She says, shooting me a smile.

I sigh, placing the cup down.  “I’ll be back after I find a place where Eris and I can stay that I’m absolutely sure is safe.”

Without another word, I stand.

“Wait.”  My brother says, standing with me.  “Let one of us come with you.  With Amarantha out there, I don’t like the idea of you out there alone.”

I sighed, holding back an eye roll.  “Fine, but I get to choose who comes with.”  I say, eyeing Azriel.

He’s watching me just as closely.

Rhysands nods.  “Of course.”

I blink, surprised at how easily he agreed.

I wasn’t going to look a gift horse in the mouth though.

And I already knew who I wanted.

“I would like you to come with me, if you are alright with that?”  I ask, turning to face Nesta.

Here I was thinking I couldn’t shock the room anymore than I already had.

She blinks.  “Me?”

I nod.  “I know you can fight, and I would like to get to know you better.”  I say, dipping my head slightly, the closest I would ever get to a bow.

Cassian opens his mouth, presumably to respond for her, but she nods, her face cool and unreadable as she says, “I’m perfectly fine with that.”

I grin.  “Good.  Please hurry, I’ll be waiting in the garden.”  I announce, heading out in that direction.

As soon as I leave the room, I can hear the cacophony of voices start up.

In my time here, I had seen Nesta was a good fighter, and even if it was suppressed, she had magic flowing in her veins.

I had heard her story, enough that I know that her powers were taken back by the cauldron.  But it had left her some, and I can’t help but feel she’s lowered everyone's expectations.

“Why do you want to take my sister with you?”

I whirl around, and I see Elain standing there, inspecting me with a quiet sort of suspicion.

“I think you know.”  I say, narrowing my eyes.

She crosses her arms, standing her ground.  “You’ve not exactly proved yourself to be trustworthy.”

I smile, my eyes darkening.  “Oh, and may I ask what you’ve done?”  I ask, letting my voice drop an octave.

“Excuse me?”  She asked, sounding outraged.

I let out a small laugh, sauntering over to her.  “I’m going to warn you now little girl.  You can pretend you’re innocent for awhile, but eventually it will catch up for you Elain.”

I smile a little bit at her, the little bit of terror and rage in her face.  “When it does, find me.  I know what it’s like.”

Turning, I finally make my way out to the garden, the rain having calmed to a light drizzle.

After coming back, I hadn’t taken the time to go outside at night, to go around and actually explore the city on my own.

Now, I look up at the stars, and I release a long sigh, letting my shoulders slump.  I needed to go see the Sidra at some point, see if it was as wonderful as I remembered.

“You ready to go?”  Nesta asks, and I smile a little.

I turn to study the female, who only seems relaxed when my brother isn’t in the room.  I honestly don’t blame her.

“I am if you are.”  I say, extending my arm for her to grab onto.

She raised her eyebrows, her lips twitching upwards.  “How gentlemanly of you.”

I give her a little wink as she takes my arm.  “I have to admit, I’m not usually one to flirt with mated females, but you’re quite fun.”

She whipped her head around, opening her mouth to snap at me, but before she could get a word out, I was winnowing us to Eris’s cottage with a chuckle.

We landed with a small thud, and we were both silent for a moment, waiting for the sound of welcoming footsteps or the sound of swords being unsheathed, but none came.

My heart dropped to the pit of my stomach as I took a cautious step away from Nesta, peering around to check for any threats.

“Stay here.  I’m going to make sure everything’s alright.”  I turn just enough to look at her, already holding her feet apart in a fighting stance.  “I trust you have weapons?”

She gave a curt nod, and I turned back around, taking my time checking the whole cabin.

I shake my head when I finally come back, the message clear.

Nothing.

“Well, do you have any idea where he went, or do you just want to head back?”  She asked, leaning against the fireplace.

I shake my head.  “I’m not leaving until I find him.  Worse case scenario, his father or Amarantha found him.  More likely though, he went looking where I told him I was going to be.”  I explain, biting my lip nervously.

I knew I had been awhile, but I wish he had just stayed here for once.

“Maybe-”  Nesta starts, but is cut off by the front door opening, the two of us unsheathing our weapons as the figure steps in.

Eris.

I put away my dagger rushing over to him.  “Are you okay?”  I asked, worried that he was hurt.

He paused as I rushed towards him, looking over me.  “Are you alright?”  He asked, walking over to me, and inspecting me hesitantly.

I nod, confused by the way he was staying a few steps back.

Sam, Tamlin, and Lucien walked in, and I watched the way Nesta stiffened up at their entrance.  Normally I would have questioned Eris and Nesta on why they both seemed to have sticks up their asses, but I didn’t have time.

I had no time.

“Why the hell did you bring these two back right now?  We literally can’t go back-”  I started, but Sam cut me off.

“We sure as hell can, and you’re coming with us.”  He said, leveling a stare at me.

I gritted my teeth, and Eris turned to look at me.  “They haven’t explained a lot, but what they have isn’t good.”  He said, and I realized he was wearing his usual mask of the cruel lord.

A little taken aback, I shake my head.  “It doesn’t matter right now.  What matters is that we find a safe-”

“Y/N.”  Lucien stopped me, crossing his arms.  “They told us why people don’t just go back to their lives willy nilly.  You need to come back with us.

Nesta comes closer, standing by my side.  “She doesn’t have to go anywhere she doesn’t want to.”

Suddenly, the room is split in two, and my stomach churns.  I knew why they wanted me to come back, but I couldn’t go back yet.

Not until I knew that Amarantha would be waiting in the afterlife, and I could make sure she never hurt anyone again.

I look to Eris, who’s looking back at me with a sort of distrust.

“Could we talk alone for a minute?”  I ask him.  I don’t want to explain this in front of everyone like this.

He crosses his arms, but nods.  “Yeah, okay.”

Everyone else starts to protest, but before any of them can finish I grab his arm and winnow us outside, a little distance away.

He shrugs me off, crossing his arms and looking up at the night sky, taking deep breaths.

“Are you okay?”  I ask him again, more forcefully this time.

“No! No, I’m not alright.  First, you lied to me to go talk to your family, second, from what they told me, if you stay here too long, something bad is going to happen to you.”  He snapped, turning to look at me with tired eyes.

I shake my head.  “It’s not like that.  I just didn’t want you to worry, I worked it out with my brother, and I’m going to be fine.”

He narrows his eyes at me, and I know he sees through my words.

“Tell me what happens.”

I let my shoulders slump, biting my lip anxiously.  “I- The reason you stay you is because souls have this essence which is you.  Your memories, your personality, you.”   I start to explain, shifting uncomfortably.

He relaxes slightly.  “What does that have to do with all of this?”  He asked, and I gritted my teeth.  I didn’t want to tell him this, because I know he will panic.

“Well, that essence is what the Asteri steal.  When people make it to the afterlife after it is stolen, they have no memories of who they were.  You can also lose that essence in a sort of gamble.”  I explain, crossing my arms.

He suddenly looks nervous, asking, “What sort of gamble?”

I take a deep breath before telling him, “If I stay here for too long without stopping by the afterlife, or even just another world, I will lose all my memories, but I have another chance at my life."

“And you were… what?  Going to let yourself lose your memories?”  Eris asks me, and I try not to cringe away.

“If Amarantha finds out how we travel, and tells the Asteri, then there’s nothing stopping them from basically taking over the universe.  So no, I wasn’t really willing to risk everyone’s lives so I could keep my memories.”  I snap, half turning away from him.

I hear him stand, and I close my eyes, wishing this was over.

“What else aren’t you telling me?”  He asks, and I can hear the pain in his voice.

I wrap my arms around myself, not saying anything.

We stand there for a few moments in silence before he asks, “What now?”

I shrug.  “Now?  Now we find a safe place for you and I try and help my brother prepare Velaris for Amarantha.”  I say, spinning on my heel and heading back toward the cabin.  I was too tired to talk any more about this.

“About that actually-”

I sit with Tamlin, Lucien, Sam, Eris, and Nesta at a large and fancy table.

“So in other words we are all screwed?”  I ask as they finish laying out the extend of Amarantha’s army.

“It could be worse.”  Tamlin tries.  “It could be the king of Hybren leading them.”

Nesta scowls at him.  “That’s not helping.”

I sigh.  “I guess I should get Rhys here.  This is not going to be fun.”  I bemoan.

Eris has stayed quiet, and I can understand why, but my heart still feels like it’s cracking.

Maybe I should have told him about the possibility of losing my memories, but the rest of what I wasn’t telling him…

It wasn’t something anyone needed to hear about.  It was stupid, and it didn’t matter.

I look at Nesta, meeting her stare.  “Want to stay here while I get them?”  She gives a single dip of her head in response, and I immediately winnow back to the house of Wind.

“Mother above-”  Cassian curses as I appear in the middle of the room.

“There’s a problem, and we need to go talk to Tamlin, Eris, Lucien, and my friend Sam.”  I list, not bothering to hide my irritation.

“I thought you said Tamlin was dead, and did you leave Nesta with them?”  Cassian questioned, standing up.

I cross my arms, meeting his stare.  “I trust them and her.  And if something happens, I’m sure she can handle herself.”  I snipe before turning to my brother, who’s giving me an evaluating look.

He nods.  “Alright.  Feyre?”  He asks, and it’s clear what he’s asking.  Does she want to face Tamlin?

She gives a subtle shake of her head and he nods, shooting Cassian and Azriel a look, both of them standing as he does.

“Let’s go.

Now all of us awkwardly sat at an even bigger table, and no one was happy.

“Is there anything we can do to send her back easily?”  Rhys asks impatiently, we had already been going around and around for an hour or more.

“Nope.”  I say, ignoring his glare.

Someone, *ahem* Lucien *ahem*  had brought up earlier the side effects of my lingering here, causing an explosive argument.

I bite my lip.  “We could try and add more defenses to Velaris’s shield.”  I say, thinking it through.

“That would help, but we would still need help defending the city.”  Rhys ponders, before nodding.  “Yes, we should at least do that.”

I nod.  “Well, I have an idea, but…”  I put my hand out, creating a small sphere of darkness and tiny pin prick stars, sighing.

“But I’m going to need help.”  I manage to say, seeing what I’m going to have to do if I want to protect the city I had grown up in.

Rhysand smiles a little bit, and I almost roll my eyes.  “Of course you’ll have help.”  He says, and I sigh.

“It can’t be anyone alive.  Which means I need to go find someone.”  I say, standing up.

Everyone else stands up with me, clambering for my attention.

I slam a fist on the table.

“You all try and sort this out, I’m going to go get them.”  I say, turning away from the table.

“I’m going-”  “Like hell you’re-”  Rhys and Eris talk over each other, starting a staring match.

I groan.  “I don’t have time for this shit.  Both of you come on now or I’m leaving you both here and you can throw your temper tantrums.”

I hear Nesta snort, and I hide the smile that threatens to spread across my face.

They follow me a little distance from the cabin, and I look around.  “Can you two provide me some cover so no one can see what I’m doing?”

I hear light grumbling, but I ignore it as I start to create the portal.  “Thanks.”

After a minute, the portal is open.

I take a deep breath, and make sure Eris and Rhys are both ready.  They both look pissed, but otherwise ready.

“Let’s go see dear old dad.”  I mutter before stepping through the portal, not giving them a chance to comment.

[acourtofbooksandshadows]

Alliance Maker - Chapter 7

Summary: After waking up from a nightmare you decide to take a trip to the kitchen. You run into someone unexpected.

Pairing: Slow burn!Azriel x Afab!Reader

Warnings: Torture, poison, rape, swearing, knife's, whips, chains, getting sick, blood, overall men being absolutely disgusting.

Word count: 1522

Masterlist Series Masterlist

“Get off me.” The words left your mouth in a scream. You thrashed against the chains that held you. The laughs from the men surrounding you had bile rising in your throat. You jerked your head forward, snapping your teeth at the man in front of you. His fingers halted in their movement between your breasts momentarily. 

“Shut your fucking mouth before I do it for you.” His breath was atrocious as he spoke, it smelled of something rotten. His hand moved away from your skin for just a moment only for a knife to be placed within it. 

“No, get the fuck away from me.” Your voice was more frantic this time. The chains groaned as you yanked on them. The man's eyes narrowed on you. 

“Give me the lenroot.” fear struck every part of your body at the mention of the paralytic. The thought of not being able to fight against them had the bile from earlier rising again, this time it actually coming up into your mouth. But you quickly swallowed it, knowing if they saw you get sick it would only make what they were going to do to you worse. Lenroot was something they used on you frequently, it left you unable to move but still able to feel everything they did to you.

The root was brought up to your mouth but you clenched your teeth together tightly refusing to open your mouth. He tutted you quietly, before looking to his right. The same man that handed him the knife and the lenroot stepped up to you. Tears started to steadily work their way down your cheeks as he pried your mouth open. 

Then the man in front of you was shoving the root into your mouth. You gagged at the taste of it, trying desperately not to swallow it. Though you knew that just the act of your tongue touching it was enough to paralyze you for a few hours. It had happened so many times before so you knew what to expect. Your body grew slack against the iron chains around your wrists connected to the ceiling above you. 

You watched as they took turns with you. Some dragged knives along your skin, leaving small trails of blood anywhere they desired. Then some of them had their way with you. They had left you naked since they brought you here. Deciding the clothes were just too much of an inconvenience to them. That left you in a constant state of freezing. The man that shoved the lenroot into your mouth came back with a whip in hand and you knew the pain would be too much for you to handle. You were right because with the first lash against your stomach you were losing consciousness. 

You awoke with a sob, a cold sensation was weaving through your hair. A soothing touch was smoothing along your cheeks. As the tears tracked down your skin they were wiped away just as quickly. You let out a shudder at the not yet familiar feeling. Bringing a hand up to your face a black tendril wrapped around your scared skin and down to your wrist. You glanced around the room and didn’t see any more of them or the spymaster they belonged to. 

“Will you come with me to the kitchen?” You didn’t wait for a response, not that you necessarily thought they could respond. There were slippers waiting for you as you dragged your legs out of the warmth of the blankets. You stood and moved out of the room slowly. Deciding to take your time and savor the emptiness of the house. The walk to the kitchen was easy as you remembered the tour Nesta and Emerie gave you earlier. 

The shadows had both worked their way down to your hands at this point, dancing across the skin slowly. The feeling of them soothed you as your mind kept replaying the nightmare from just moments earlier. The memory was one you were desperate to forget. 

As you rounded the kitchen you were slightly startled. It seemed to be your luck to run into males in the room. But this one wasn’t at all like the red haired one before. His hazel eyes pierced through you as he took in your form. His eyes went to your hands and you winced. But as your eyes moved down to them you noticed that the shadows had wrapped around them much like the fingerless gloves you typically adorned. A smile came to rest upon your lips at the action. 

Then your eyes came back up to their owner and you gulped. You didn’t think that he would harm you. But you knew of his reputation as a fierce protector. His court and the people within it came above all else. And to him you were an unknown threat, an anomaly he was struggling to figure out. He had sent shadows out to every corner and crevice of the land and yet they came back with nothing. It worried him immensely, but with the liking his shadows had taken to you he wasn’t sure they were being truthful in their discoveries. 

He moved to the sink with the plate, cup and silverware he was just using. He grabbed a sponge and soap and started to wash them. You took the moment to take him in. He was wearing loose pajama pants much like your own. His hair was wet and you could see the drops of water slowly running down his neck and to his naked chest and torso. You took in the lines and curves and swirls of the tattoos marking his skin. Your body fought against itself. A part of you was desperate to wipe away the trail of water being left on his skin, to feel the scars you could see against your fingertips. The other part was desperate to get away from him, to flee from the doorway you were standing in and never look back. 

You shook the thoughts from your head and moved around the large island placed in the middle of the room. You didn’t miss the way Azriel tensed, readying himself for an attack that wouldn’t come. The black and gray marbled countertop was filled with different fruits and vegetables. You took a moment to decide on what you wanted and started on a cup of tea. As the water boiled you reached for an orange and started to peel it. The shadows started to help you. Pulling on the peel as you worked on the pith. 

The glass that Azriel was drying with a towel smashed in his hold as he took in the way the shadows worked with you. You and the shadows both froze in your actions. You looked from the orange to the shards on the ground then to the male that was standing above the mess. Your eyes widened as you noticed he was already looking at you. You took a hesitant step back, hand unconsciously gripping one of the knives in the knife block beside you. 

The nightmare from before flashed through your mind. Your chest started to ache as anxiety ate away at you rapidly. The angry look of the man with the whip seemed so similar to the look Azriel was giving you now. Your hands started to heat up, your fingertips throbbing as you dropped the orange. One of the shadows however caught it. The other that was against you started to work up your arm under your shirt until it was touching your face. Another one slipped away from the already seething Illyrian and swept across your hand holding the knife calmly. 

You slowly let it go, a single tear worked out of your eye and down your face as you blinked. The shadow that sat along your cheek wiped at it before it could pass your jawline. A shaky breath slipped your lips as you calmed yourself. Your hands stopped throbbing and your chest stopped aching. Azriel was looking at you curiously when you finally met his stare again. But your eyes broke away quickly when the water started to whistle. 

You made fast work of getting out two cups and making two cups of tea. You left one on the counter, looking up at Azriel for a moment. The shadow holding the orange placed it back into your empty hand. The fruit was bare of rind and pith and you gripped it loosely. You whispered a thank you to the shadow and it swept across your hand in response. Then you finally fled the kitchen. 

The three shadows stayed with you and Azriel bristled at the disrespect. But then a few of his other shadows were bringing the tea cup towards him. He waved them away but they insisted on him taking a drink. When he finally brought the peace offering up to his lips he was blown away. The tea was made the exact way he liked it, down to the amount of sugar and the spoonful of honey. He almost choked as the thought settled in his head.

A/N: I hope you guys liked this part! I was so happy to finally write an official interaction between Az and Reader! I'll be posting the next part next week! As always likes, follows, reblogs and comments are much appreciated.

Tags(open): @wolfsbane44 @moonlwghts @maddietheshoe @hyemishii @fanboyluvr @kmc1989 @acourtofinkandpapyrus @luvmoo

[acourtofinkandpapyrus]

... THE NIGHTMARE, THE TEA, THESE TWO TRAUMATIZED BEANS NEED TO GET TOGETHER ASAP SO HELP THE CAULDREN OR MOTHER OR WHATEVER THEY WORSHIP

[acourtofbooksandshadows]

Alliance Maker - Chapter 6

Summary: An unexpected meeting leads to unexpected plans. But you don't seem swayed in the least.

Pairing: Slow burn!Azriel x Afab!Reader

Warnings: swearing, illusions to sex and alcohol. That's it?

Word count: 1211

Masterlist Series Masterlist

“This is the kitchen.” Emerie waves her hand in front of the doorway to the large space. Your eyes took in the room quickly. You noted the exits and all the knives unconsciously. Then your eyes landed on a red haired male standing at the island, a piece of toast covered in pumpkin jam in his hands. He noticed you the same time you noticed him. 

“What are you doing here?” Nestas' cold voice spoke at the same time you did. Gwyn’s calming voice wasn’t there to sooth it this time as she had retreated to the priestess’s. 

“You’re Lucien.” His surprised yet curious gaze met your own and your face was almost split in two as you smiled at him. He seemed a bit taken aback, he wasn’t used to anyone being pleased with his presence now-a-days. So to see a stranger so unabashedly happy had him preening a bit. 

“I am here because Elain and Nyx have been spending more time at the town house with Nuala and Cerridwen. With their absence at the river house Feyre and Rhysand have decided to start practicing for a second.” His eyes both Fae and machine, stayed on you as he spoke to the seething female beside you. 

“I figured you wouldn’t want me bothering Elain. I refuse to enter that house when it reeks of them everywhere so I decided this was the best place for me.” His gaze slowly slipped from your own onto Nesta. He looked perfectly calm and poise. To Nesta and Emerie he looked just like the emissary he was but your eyes slipped to his hand not holding the toast, where a small spark of fire danced between his fingertips. 

“Would you happen to be free tomorrow afternoon Lucien?” Your question caught everyone off guard, even yourself as you asked it. His head cocked to the side as he sized you up, taking note of the wings adorning your back that weren’t there the last time he had seen you. You had been warned he could see through glamouring so you were happy you were covered head to toe. The various tattoos adorning your body were hidden well. 

“I don’t have anything that comes to mind. Why do you ask?” Nesta went to speak but you cut her off before she could. You didn’t pay the two females any mind as your soul focus remained on the fire wielding Fae in front of you.

“I need your help with something.” You did the same little trick with your fingers that you had noticed him doing moments earlier and he caught it just as you knew he would. A spark of intrigue lit up in his eye as well as your own. 

“Then I am at your service. Nesta can show you to my chambers when you are in need of me.” With that he was slipping past the three of you and off down the hallway. When he was out of sight you let your gaze fall back on Nesta. Her eyes held utter rage behind them which you simply shook your head at. 

“What the fuck was that about?” You didn’t falter as you took the piercing gaze and words in. You simply gave her a smile that was all but reassuring. A seed of doubt started to form in her mind. She had put blind trust in you. But had she been stupid to do so? She shook her head at the thought and decided that until you did something to make her not trust you she would stick by your side. 

“Like I said I need his help with something.” You shrugged your shoulders before moving to where Lucien had just made a piece of toast and started on your own. You offered some to the females but Emerie was the only one to accept a piece. 

Dinner that night was tense. Emerie had to go back to her camp. Lucien had holed himself up in his room. Azriel went back to interrogation. Rhysand and Feyre were both busy with each other. That left you with Nesta glaring holes into you and Cassian giving you weary looks. 

“You know Nesta. If you don’t want me to go you can just tell me.” You punctuate the sentence by stabbing a piece of your food and bringing it up to your lips. You slipped it between your lips and savored the amazing herbs and spices that enveloped your taste buds. 

“I don’t want you to go.” Her voice was as sharp as her gaze was and you nodded at her words. You chewed your food, swallowed it and then gave her a smile that had Cassian squeezing the fork in his hand anxiously. 

“Thank you for your input. But I’m still going.” Cassian choked on the bite of food he had in his mouth, giving you both an incredulous look. Nesta’s eyes only narrowed at you, like she could pin you to the chair forever. 

“Where are you going?” Cassian finally asked after getting his breath back. You took a sip of wine before replying to him. The bitter taste was soothing as you swallowed it. 

“I asked for Lucien’s help to expel my power tomorrow afternoon. Nesta doesn’t seem to be keen on the idea of me being within fifty feet of him.” Nesta huffed a breath of exhaustion at your statement. Cassian's eyes darted between the two of you before he spoke up again. 

“Would you mind if we were in attendance?” You shook your head at his question, giving Nesta a reassuring smile this time. She finally let out a small breath, calming down every so slightly. 

“I figured The High Lord, The High Lady, you and Nesta would like to be there.” You stabbed another piece of food and brought it up to your mouth. Cassian's eyes glazed over and you waited, chewing your food slowly. 

“Rhys said that he and Feyre will be there. He’d like Azriel there as well.” You gulped at the response. Not expecting the male from earlier to be in attendance as well. He had been aggravated at the interruption you had caused him earlier so you didn’t think he’d be happy to have to shell out time for you again. 

“The angry guy with the shadows from training?” You asked him even though you already knew the answer. He gave you a loud laugh at the question and gave you an enthusiastic nod in response. Then that was the end of the discussion, the three of you returning to eating. 

You had slipped off to your room shortly after you were done eating. Mostly because after the tension in between you and Nesta was cleared, the way Nesta and Cassian were eyefucking each other had you wanting a reprieve. You bathed and slipped into a pair of pajama pants and a loose tunic that the house set out for you. 

The sheets were cold as you worked your way under the covers. You shuddered at the feeling. Your mind flashing back to your time within Hybern. Before you could try to heat the room yourself the house had lit a fire in the hearth. You uttered a thank you, then you were slipping into sleep.

A/N: This part was short and lacked Az I know. But the next chapter is both longer and has Az. So please just be patient. There will be significantly more Az in later chapters. Right now were just building up to that.

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Nesta is the bomb, I flipping love this series!