[faebound]

voxdaemonica​:

The buzz of adrenaline was just starting to fade as Celine took another gulp of water from her flask. Ever since the brawl in the Autumn Court, it felt like every one of her nerves had been wound taut, sensitive to even the slightest change in the environment around her. For so long she had lusted for battle, to show the Fae the exact same sort of nightmare that humans had endured for centuries, and to finally unleash that pent-up rage had been nothing short of euphoric. Yet when the Resistance had finally begun to ascend as a force to be reckoned with, its foundations had cracked apart, crumbling over nonsensical bullshit and leaving the murderous blonde blood-starved and impatient. 

She had lasted about a week before she had taken her bow and favourite knives back to her usual haunt. The stag she felled was far too big to be carried back to the Resistance’s elusive headquarters, but at least the exercise soothed her frustrations a bit. Even more important, it gave her the perfect bait for the one person she had yet to check in on. Celine had dragged it about half-heartedly, placing the carcass just slightly off her usual route until she was positive the scent could be found downwind. And there she had remained, carving nonsensical patterns into the log that she rested on while she waited to see if her quarry felt like showing up today. 

And then, as she considered taking some of the deer for a late lunch, a pair of wolves broke through the treeline, making a direct path to her kill while their mistress finally came into view. To see the Wild Hunt Fae in all her glory, unscathed from battle was…well she wouldn’t quite say it was a relief, because that implied feelings. She had given those up in the new year along with the final fuck she had left to give about the Resistance’s internal drama.

“I’m afraid you’ll need to be more specific, Ada. My people, as you so eloquently put it, have been quite busy these days.“ Celine huffed as the wolves took the stag for themselves, but did nothing to stop them. She couldn’t fault a beast for wanting a free meal, but they didn’t have to look so elated about it all the damned time. “The gala was a friendly reminder that the nobility should watch their backs. It’s hardly my fault that your gracious hosts just happened to be the perfect kindling.” The hunter shrugged, indifferent to the accusation at hand. They were all true, for the most part. “It’s almost funny. I would have thought killing a High Lord would have been far more shocking, but I suppose when you see a Fae’s godhood stripped away before a crowd, it leaves a more lasting impression.” 

She stood up them, her relaxed stance betrayed only by the subtle brushing of her fingers against the worn handles of her blades. With Ada, there was no telling whether their heated conversations would lead to fighting or complications, but Celine enjoyed the surprise of it. “Really Ada, did you expect us to sit there and lie down when the opportunity was ripe for the taking? It’s hardly our fault that your new ally was too short-sighted to notice a threat when it was right in front of him.”

- 

A faint scoff soon followed Celine’s all but boastful admission of her kin’s busy exploits as of late, not even bothering to dignifying it with a response. Like hell the hunter didn’t know the exact debacle she was referring to. “So an all out declaration of war then? I’d have thought not even you capable of such foolishness.” The lupine fae commented firstly, nobility believing themselves vulnerable would never lead to anything less. “You say that as though it’s not simply a matter of perspective. To Dawn it certainly was - However I personally couldn’t care less about the courts and their monomania. A High Lord is killed, the most cutthroat successor best utilises such chaos, those whispers of their predecessor’s weakness used as an excuse for far more sadistic tendencies....The same as it’s been for centuries. You hardly cut the head off the snake, my dear. You merely gave the humans that reside there even more to worry about.” Ada scarcely knew why she bothered to argue the point, they would never exactly see eye-to-eye on such things. “I care about Night because our King does, which means I now have to potentially become involved in this shitshow.”  

It was almost palpable how the air shifted slightly as the hunter stood. Both falling into easy patterns of instinct so intricately crafted over the many years they’d been playing this little contrivance. Admittedly far more lax around each other than they had been in early years, but it hardly meant Ada wasn’t still be privy to the potential bite of those iron-laced blades every once in a while. A reaction now more reserved, but riling Celine up to such extent was usually when things got interesting. The exhaustion that weighed on her shoulders had her in no particular mood for a fight, yet it was still far too easy for elevated sight to track the barely there graze of hands against those well-used hilts. A smug smirk creeping onto her features as her head faintly cocked to one side. “Making you nervous already am I, darling? Don’t tempt me to truly get you squirming.” It was rather impossible not at least push a handful of buttons when it came to the infuriating human before her, if only for the simple fact she knew a few of her own would be pressed soon enough. The urge to make the first move always much too great.           

A notion that was only solidified, as Celine spoke up once more. Buttons indeed. A wonderful tool in her arsenal against most, but hating how quickly the hunter always seemed able to find her own. Some little quip of retort falling away to a dulled snarl slipping from the back of her throat alongside echoes of newfound alliance. Closing the gap with impossible speed, a hand swiftly curled around her adversaries jaw, vice-like and immovable. She barely even knew why it irked her so, but words were falling from her lips before thought had a chance to contemplate it. “You could have gone for any of them. Any of those still left. Spring, Summer, Winter, Day -- But no, you choose Night. Of course you have to fucking choose Night. You chose our one ally and now something has to be done about it and I...” She trailed off abruptly, biting back the words threatening to slip past and yet still lingering on the tip of her tongue. Instead, the fae settled for pressing a little tighter against that deliciously sharp jaw in her grasp, determined to leave a few marks and give Celine something else to think about while her mind raced for an acceptable answer. 

The simple truth of the matter one that she despised, the fact that she did not wish to fight Celine. At least not in the capacity she would need to, should her people continue down their blood soaked path. It was a laughable notion to be sure, especially given the majority of whatever this exasperating back and forth between them was had been built on such -- Yet there were always unspoken rules with regards to their eyes only. Ada never could quite find it in herself to use the full extent of her powers or strength, and Celine had never exactly gone for a swift and potentially lethal delve into her heart with those notorious weapons of hers. The impossibility of holding back in a fight surrounded by the groups they held fealty to was a very real concept, made all the more obvious during the tournament. Celine hadn’t had her equipment or advantages, and even then Ada hadn’t gone all out. It was a thought that found an unsettling weight interweaving itself through her ribcage, pressing inward, making it just a little harder to breath. “I don’t give a shit about the vindictive, squabbling band of children you choose to aline with -- I do not want to war with you.” 

But even that still felt far too honest an admission, uncomfortably so. A divulgence that could be used and derided, one even Ada didn’t fully grasp the gravity of in that moment. She hated this, utterly and entirely despised it. Why she had felt the need to pursue Celine when she was so enervated was beyond her, and she was quickly realising the ramifications of such carelessness. Sleep deprivation apparently did not sit well on her now they had done everything needed. Hairline fractures cracking in her mask of indifference she did not warrant nor agreed with in the slightest. An urge to add some sting to such unwanted contemplations suddenly taking up prominence. “You would not win, just look at our last little public spat. Not exactly your finest hour, hunter.” She sneered, pushing her away through the grip she held before turning to wander closer to her wolves. A need for space in the hopes of eliminating such rapidly spiralling thoughts from her mind.  

[faebound]

theartofruling​:

There was a tide turning, a quiet wave of tension that Robin knew that all courts would be feeling in the present. She saw how quickly not only the humans struck, but in the face of violence how quickly everyone had turned on each other. While she was no stranger to a good fight, she did want to make sure those she was closest to were okay. Though there was no doubt that the force to be reckoned, Ada, was okay. Though Robin wanted to see that with her own eyes. She stood at a distance not wanting to interrupt before Ada spoke to her. 

Robin approached with a bit of a grin in greeting. “I wanted to make sure you were okay. Though I did know and there’s no doubt in my mind that you kicked ass and took names, but I wanted to see with my own eyes that you and that beautiful face were unharmed.” She made a point for her eyes to scan the other from head to toe. “From what I see, you are just as fine as you were pre Autumn Trials.” 

- 

“And are you satisfied with the assumption?” The military advisor hummed lightly, brow raising with a faint smirk at the wandering gaze. Robin always was about as unabashed in her flirtations as she was, regardless of it leading to something or not. It was one of the many reasons they got along as well as they did. That, and the simple ease that always accompanied her amity.  

“Oh it’ll take far more than aberrant humans and disorganised warriors to get the better of me, darling. You needn’t have let such a thing even cross your mind.” She added lightly while stepping closer. Deft fingers tucking an errant strand of ebony behind Robin’s ear and lingering there a moment before dropping away. “But it truly is good to see you, and by the looks of it you appear to have faired perfectly well yourself.” Ada continued, violet eyes giving a brief glance of their own over the huntress, before her lips curled into a coy smirk. “Though I do have to admit, I’d feel far greater ease after a more - thorough, inspection.” 

[faebound]

theartofruling​:

Even with the move to Dawn, Iris still made certain to visit and keep in touch with her mother. While the woman never felt much like the family that the Wakefields were to her, Cressida Latif kept her safe and well taken care of, serving as a safe haven for her when she needed it most. That was something she’d never forget, and she would also never neglect the relationship she’d built with the woman over the centuries.  Iris was comfortable hanging out while Cressida was off doing whatever she needed to do for the day. 

Seeing an unexpected visitor, and a very gorgeous familiar face made her smile. “I still like to shake things up and make unexpected appearances in places that I used to frequent. I know my presences was sorely missed,” she said in jest as she wore a smirk to indicate that she was joking. “Today though must be my lucky day to be surprised to see such a beautiful face on this visit.” She grinned at the compliment. “Thanks, I’ve waited a couple centuries to be able to don it again.” That thought never ceased to make her practically beam at the prospect of where she finally was once more. “Enough about me…for now. Are you looking for my mother for something in particular or just her company because as much as I love her, I’d have to say, I’m much more fun.”

- 

“Oh I’m sure it was, whatever have they done without you here all these years? It must have been far more boring that’s for sure.” Ada played along lightly, a soft smirk clinging to the corner of her lips. “And you’re certainly one to talk about beautiful faces, my dear. The luck is all mine.” She hummed, before amaranthine eyes shifted to their surroundings out of habit momentarily. The lupine fae never could quite find herself at ease when visiting other courts, even if at this point in time none technically viewed the Hunt as an enemy.       

“Is that right? I’ll admit I’m not particularly well versed in Dawn’s politics...It’s your brother in charge now, correct?” Ada had never really seen Iris outside of the Garden, even then it had mostly been in passing -- But the brunette beauty did also hold a near century on her, plenty could happen is such an accumulation of time. “Oh nothing particular. It was more the friendly face in a sea of unfamiliarity that drew me, but it looks at though i’ve found one regardless.” She added, brow raising in a playful inclination at the mention of fun. “Is that a promise?”     

[faebound]

nymphcts​:

♡

Sophia felt very deeply that there was a part of her that would always belong to Ada. Throughout the last century or so, the nymph had given so much of herself away to as many people as years she had been alive, and yet none of that could hold a candle to the woman that had helped to shape her into who she was today. To many, Ada might have seemed to be every bit of the militant third-in-command of the Wild Hunt, dedicated to her position and her pack above all else, but Sophia had seen her stripped of all that more times than she could count - bare, vulnerable, and draped in the sort of beauty and sensuality that only the part-wolf-part-nymph could wield as if it were merely another weapon in her arsenal. It was startling to see her now - she was striking as always, but especially so in the torchlight that flickered across her bronzed skin like warmed honey, and it took every ounce of self-control that Sophia possessed not to fall to her knees then and there, in the middle of the incredibly public alcove, and slip underneath Ada’s dazzling gown.

But she was still an obedient little pet, even after all this time, and it was Ada who made the first move between them. The violet-eyed she-wolf reached out with a nimble hand, and Sophia breathed out a soft, dulcet little sound as she felt the calloused tips of Ada’s fingertips gently caress beneath the elegant line of her jaw; she tilted her face upwards, and Sophia’s inquisitive, claret-green gaze followed suit with a flutter of her long, silken lashes. Suddenly, it was as if no amount of time had passed between the two of them at all; in that moment, she was an eighteen year old nymphet yet again, fresh from her training in the Garden and all too eager to tumble headfirst into the arms of a skilled, well-honed domme. The warmth of both Ada’s touch and the meaning behind her words - including the use of the term kitten in what had always been one of Sophia’s favored endearments - had the High Lady flushing from head to toe with warm, rosy heat, all the way from the delicate apples of her cheeks to the creamy expanse of decollete that her dress left exposed. And between her thighs, the same molten hotness flared and blossomed.

“You’ve nothing to apologize for,” Sophia insisted softly, and there was nothing but earnest truthfulness to be found in her glimmering green eyes as she maintained the locking of her gaze with the dark-haired huntress; eye contact, Ada had taught her so very long ago, was as intimate as anything else that could be done in the bedroom - perhaps even more so, given the way that the spun-gold nymph felt with just a single glance into Ada’s piercing amethyst depths. “And as I stand before you right now, maîtresse, the only thing that matters about the last year is the amount of times that you crossed my mind: more than any number of stars in the sky.” Gingerly, Sophia nuzzled into the hand that remained tilted upward beneath her chin, but she could not restrain herself a moment longer; she ducked her head gracefully, and then very swiftly caught hold of Ada’s slim wrist - wrapping her dainty fingers around the half-nymph’s hand so that she could bring the entirety of it to her lush pink lips for a series of reverent, worshipful kisses.

“Better now,” she conceded as Ada asked about the husband she’d only just married within the last few months; the truth of the matter was that it was only recently that they’d grown close, but she’d still yet to share his bed in the way that she would have liked. Either way, the fact that she was married - and to the High Lord of the Night Court, of all people - was not something that bothered Sophia now. Hers was a heart that was meant to be shared, and so much of it beat and bled for Ada; she couldn’t be expected to hold herself back from the lupine fae when they’d spent more than a year apart from one another. “He is kinder than one would think. I…I was not happy at first, non, but i think that I could be now. Especially if I have visits with you to look forward to in my future.” Sophia’s iridescent starry-night butterfly wings tittered eagerly at the thought, and she looked up at Ada almost mischievously then…right as she allowed her soft, kitten-like tongue to flick past her parted lips and across the tops of the huntress’ slender fingertips. “Mmm…”

The nymph’s sigh, soft and needy, reverberated off of the hallowed walls of the just-barely secluded corridor they’d found themselves in, and she brushed her pouted lips gently across the backs of Ada’s knuckles. “Have you been well?” she asked, with an inquisitive tilt of her head upwards, and her pointed elfin ears were already perked and attentive for Ada’s response; just like before, she was as attuned to the domme’s presence as she always had been, and she hung onto every single word as if they were spoken gospel. “We are allies still, but I’ve never needed a treaty to swear myself to you, ma reine.” Carefully, she let go of Ada’s hand, but only so that she could rest her own fingertips sweetly at the brunette’s hairline - gingerly sweeping away a lustrous lock of chestnut from her deepening gaze. “Even now, I am forever at your mercy.” 

-

Sofia always had and always would be a woman Ada held in the highest of regard. To have the relationship they did, to be offered such levels of trust so completely by the nymph straight out of her training - It more than warranted a certain equivalence. There was no bond more interwoven than that of a domme and a sub in her view, to yield so entirely took strength Ada would never undervalue. A complete and utter gift, and one the she-wolf would always feel such obligation to cherish. A notion that was perhaps the epitome of their problem right now. Such deeply ingrained behaviours in the both of their psyches that any need for restraint, at least on Ada’s part, felt far too foreign a concept. It was a worrying thought, one she knew full well given the mantles they held for one another meant she would need to lead in such newfound constraint....And yet one that, as she saw the delicately faint flush of pink curl along Sophia’s sinfully unmarked skin, was still far too delectable not to comment on.               

“Well look at you, still so flustered over such simple words.” The lupine fae chuckled in a low lull, closing the slight gap to speak closer to her ear. “You know it can be dangerous for you to wear such a satin slip of attire, pet. It would be oh so easy to run a hand up your thigh right now, see just how wet you already are for me.” She purred, grip subconsciously tightening a little around her jaw as she leaned back just enough to allow her gaze to wonder. “Always such a needy little thing...” Violet hues eventually reached emerald once more, her mind finally catching up with her actions as she eased up in response. It was far too effortless to fall prey to this well versed dance of theirs, worryingly so. The shared history of the past decades had muscle memory acting before any rational thought could take hold -- However words were just that, or at least she told herself, and as long as she could keep some semblance of control over the conversation, that was all it would be. The ability she held to toy with such an alluringly magnetic and coveted creature was simply too delicious to pass up. A woman so used to wielding her coquetry as just another weapon in her lavish arsenal, having to endure it for once. 

It was Sofia’s words that brought her back to the present, the weight of what had transpired flitting through her mind as she was told not to apologise. “You’re a Nymph. We have a sworn duty to protect you and failed in that. Only for you to then be shipped off to this -- Nightmare King, as they call him, the instant you returned. A position you never asked for, nor even particularly wanted at first I don’t think...Someone owes you something, Sophia. Even if I am now restricted to words.” Ada was angry for her it seemed, only serving to highlight one of the core difference between the pair. Hers would have been the response of some raging tornado, while Sophia’s was nothing but grace, poise and forgiveness. It irritated her to even think about how such a gentle being had been used in such a way -- A thought that was short lived, given the words and actions that followed. Gaze darkening as she felt those soft, opulent lips against her skin. “I may never find words as eloquently as you do, darling. But I do wish I could show you just how much I’ve missed you too.” 

Amethyst eyes narrowed at her initial comment on Gabriel, the sound of it one that had her jumping to conclusions far too quickly. “If he’s mistreated you...” Ada trailed off before even finishing the sentence. Well aware there was little she’d be able to do and empty words something she didn’t make a habit of offering those she cared for. It was an irrational anger that coiled in her chest all the same. Certainly not coming from a place of possessiveness or jealously but simply - warding. Sophia was never hers in the first place, but she always did feel oddly protective of the girl that had gifted her the title of mistress all those decades ago. A defensiveness that quietened in her mind a little, if only with the acknowledgement she could perhaps find herself happy now. Words that tangled up in complications far too quickly. A barely there smile curling at the corner of her lips as she shook her head faintly. “You do know we can’t--” But then Sophia’s tongue was gliding around her fingertips. Conversation lost entirely as all notions she held as to why this was such a terrible idea fell on deaf ears. All she could suddenly seem to focus on was how badly she wanted to push them further, use them as a gag to keep the nymph quiet while she had her way and not stopping until the blonde couldn’t think much past breathing for the next few hours. It was a weakness of her own making, she supposed. After all the power they held over each other worked both ways. She’d spent decades meticulously mapping every little spot of that enchanting lithe frame, filing away pertinent information that had been used time and time again to have her falling apart at the seams...Was it any wonder she’d also given away parts of herself in the process? Making it far too easy for the little minx to get under her defences.

Luckily, Sophia had felt the need to be bold. Her question cutting through the lust laden haze just enough for a faint, low chuckle to reverberate from somewhere in the back of Ada’s throat. “You have the nerve to do that with your tongue and then carry on with light conversation?” She pressed, shifting closer still as her voice lowered to an amorous cadence. “This time apart truly has made you far too bold, my dear. If we were back home...” But they weren’t home, and Ada was suddenly struck with the stark realisation that Sophia would never be home again. She was bound to the Night Court now, and as such things would never be the same. It was reflection she decided not to focus on at present. Her hand instead wondered a lazy trail from Sophia’s lips, down her neck and towards her exposed decollete. Rather grateful for the plunging neckline and oh so accidentally even slipping under the thin material every now and then as she traced lazy patterns over every inch of skin within reach. Two could play this little game, especially considering it was one Ada had taught her. “But I have been, thank you for asking.” She replied nonchalantly, as though nothing was building in the air between them despite any brief efforts to the contrary. “There’s always improvements to be made to our security, though I’ve had an easy time of it as of late. A military advisor with no wars to fight, whatever will I do with myself?” She hummed, slightly more precise in her movements as she grazed a pebbled nipple between her middle and index finger, continuing with a coy smirk. “And how about yourself? Are you well? I’ve yet to hear any tales from your time with the resistance? --- So much to catch up on, Sophia. Just think of all the hours of this conversation we could have ahead of us.”         

She knew she was being a little mean over an innocent enough question, stopping as she realised her own frustrations may have begun to bleed into their interaction at little. It was a palpable feeling, and combined with the fact this couldn’t go anywhere -- Memories for the little temptress in the coming weeks would simply have to do. “You’re certainly not making this easy are you?” She added in a breathy lilt at the feeling of delicate, nimble fingers through her hair coupled with the regal term of endearment. Her own hands seemingly wrapping around the Sophia’s lissom waist of their own accord in response. “Believe me when I tell you there’s nothing I want to do more than pin you against that wall and fuck you right now...” Ada conceded, unable to help such notions running through her mind even as she attempted to steel some semblance of obstinacy. “But we’re at a party full of nobility that could wander down here at any moment. And you’re married now. In union that cements our alliance at that, I -- simply cannot be the one to potentially jeopardise such a thing, love. Not when Lucien worked so hard to cement it.”   

[faebound]

covrtofnightmares​:

( LUCIEN&&. ADA ) + @faebound

Lucien Nighborne couldn’t sleep.

The King of Wolves had always struggled with insomnia, but it was particularly horrible these days, owed almost entirely to the general unease that pervaded Astralis’ borders. The human resistance were becoming a thorn in their sides, and after the High Lord of Night was brutally attacked in the middle of the Highwinds Tournament, Lucien was beginning to reconsider the security measures their courts had taken to protect themselves and each other in this newfound alliance. He and his own had gotten away relatively unscathed this time, and at the wedding, but who was to say the Wild Hunt wouldn’t be the next target? Or the Garden, for that matter?

There was someone else, perhaps, who was just as uneasy about the current events in Astralis as he was. Ada Desai might have been his third-in-command and his military advisor, but that didn’t mean the two shared the same opinions on the political workings and alliances of Astralis. She didn’t need to voice her opinion aloud for Lucien to realize that Ada was displeased with his choice to ally with Night. He knew that there were many in the Wild Hunt who agreed with her opinion. But as Lucien padded downstairs and towards the castle’s kitchens with nothing but candlelight to guide his way, he couldn’t find it in him to express why he felt this alliance was the right choice to make. People didn’t have to be happy with his decisions–they just needed to trust him.

But trust was a luxury. One Lucien Nightborne wasn’t entirely sure he was deserving of on nights like these.

Making his way into the kitchen, Lucien went about brewing some tea on the kettle and snuck a piece of braided chocolate bread from the kitchen stores. He sat down with a sigh, pouring himself a cup of chamomile tea and tearing off a piece of bread. With only the lights from the candles to guide him, Lucien became preoccupied with the dancing, skirting shadows that flickered along the walls. The castle was so quiet that the only sound he heard was the scraping and tinkling of his own utensils. Alone. These days, he always felt alone.

- 

Ada always had taken her role within the pack very seriously. It held a weight to it that simply couldn’t be ignored, and with the unease she held as third-in-command, she could only imagine what Lucien must be feeling. Their leader had a tendency to retreat within himself in times of strife. Never to a degree that was easily noticed, but enough to keep the majority at arms length in order to maintain a guise of regalness and calm composure. It was a trait she understood well, certainly no stranger to building walls herself if it meant their pack and the Garden might never know the extent it takes to protect them. It was an attribute well suited for a King, but for such a close friend? Not so much. 

They had worked expeditiously since their return, speaking of little else as strategies were voiced and certain deterrents laid in wait. A few scrapes and bruises was all they had suffered, but strength alone would not render them exempt from the building tensions felt throughout the whole of Astralis. Wars and battlefields may have been where Ada flourished, but it did not mean for a second she would wish it on their people. The past week had been one solely of leadership, something the she-wolf certainly had no qualms with -- But Lucien was also the closest thing she had to family still breathing. She did not plan to allow him solitude enough to shoulder all his personal grievances alone. 

Later though. The early hours of the morning after all plans had been set in motion was not a small respite she planned to disturb for him, even if she was unable to sleep herself. Ada had headed to the kitchens in darkness, eyes easily adjusting to the lack of light and honestly preferring it given the dull ache curling at her temples. A fresh pot of tea never hurt in such instances, the wondrous pastries delivered fresh to the kitchens every morning even less so...It was notion entirely forgotten, as she happened upon Lucien sitting alone in the dim candlelight. “I thought we only brooded in the dark on Tuesday’s, Lucien. This is highly irregular.” She quipped lightly as she walked up behind him, honestly grateful for the way such soft luminescence didn’t escalate the tension headache lurking behind her amethyst eyes. Her hand curling at the back of his neck and squeezing lightly before moving past to take the seat opposite. “Our house appears to be in order for now. I’m having a few fresh eyes test defences in the morning, but as of this moment, we’ve done all we can.” Ada conceded, breaking off knot of the chocolate loaf herself to pick at as she popped a small piece into her mouth. “So what else is it currently weighing on you, Lucien?” The she-wolf questioned, a genuine softness to her features before she took a lighter tone “And should you answer as my King...” Ada trailed off, weighing up the piece of bread in hand with faux absentmindedness. “Well, you know i’m rather well versed in headshots.”

[faebound]

gvldntrbl​:

Ada + Jakovan @faebound​

“Nice to see you’re alive and well. Not covered in… the blood of your enemies.” Jakovan said in lieu of greeting to the wild hunt’s military advisor. He’d glanced up from his drink at the neutral territory pub he’d found himself in on his way back home, to winter, after attending unexpected matters. Jakovan raised his glass, halfway filled with a clear substance that wasn’t water, in silent toast to Ada. “It was an honor to fight alongside you. And live to tell it. Come, sit. Join me. Let me buy you a drink. In victory, only.” He invited, pushing out the chair opposite him at his table out in invitation to Ada. “What do you drink?”

-

“Ah, but there is so little that compares to such a feeling, isn’t there? The steep price of their underestimation.” She jested lightly in turn, walking over to the man she had found an odd sort of camaraderie with during the debacle of the trials. A small part of her would always remain comparatively guarded around individuals outside of her own circle no matter what she did, but he had earned some semblance of trust at least -- And in actions rather than empty words at that. “Likewise, though I had no doubt we’d live.” She smirked faintly. “Third-in-command of the Hunt and the Royal Advisor of Winter? They were foolish to even try.” Taking the seat opposite him, she leaned back into it a little. There was something so preferable to the drunken revelry of a rumbustious pub after the stuffiness of high society and ball gowns. “Whiskey, preferably. I’ve yet to develop the taste for your...Vodka, is it? At least enough to drink it neat.” 

[faebound]

Celine & Ada

@voxdaemonica​

The fall out of the tournament had certainly lead to an unsurprisingly hectic week. Ada had barely slept, working tirelessly alongside Lucien to ensure the safety and security of their people in the following days, months, even years should it come to that. Crowd control had been a vital thing, thankful in such circumstances that their pack was a tight knit as it was. They shared an invisible boundary with the hunter’s headquarters after all, the last thing anyone needed was a rouge group of warriors allowing anger to take their senses.  

It wasn’t until the dust finally began to settle and she was confident they had their house in order, that her mind wondered to analytical contemplation. She likely never would understand this need their king had felt to interconnected with Night, but they were allies now. If they simply sat back and did nothing after such a spectacle, it would paint them in a light of undependability...The evening had been one she’d committed to memory, a useful commodity that usually accompanied an ability to impartially comb through faces and events -- There was just one slight problem on this occasion it seemed. Positively loathing how every so often her mind would drift to Celine in the process, derailing thoughts entirely. 

She hadn’t seen her since their little entanglement during the tournament, and Ada knew her well enough to know she would have been positively ecstatic about jumping into the fray they had caused that night...The third-in-command had killed a couple hunters of her own, it surely could not have been without its losses on their part. Celine may have been the most capable human she’d ever met, but the notion still gnawed at her, and that was perhaps what agitated her most. 

She did. not. care. If anything, the deficit of that infuriating blonde would only serve to make her life far easier -- So why could she not seem to shake such unproductive rumination from her thoughts? 

It was a frustration that had her culminating deep within Cloverwood, a need to clear her head as Tíre & Anluan padded softly beside her. Ada would have even shifted to join them, had the metallic tang of blood not swept over her heightened senses. A stag’s blood, if she were to hazard a guess. It was a macabre message she knew all too well, given the kills Celine had stolen from her in the past. A sense of relief thoroughly ignored as she decided to follow the fresh trail it left in its wake right to the blonde in question. The huntress was strong, but she was still human, and a kill of that size lead to breaks. Premeditative eyes surveyed the clearing momentarily, an ambush was quite frankly the last thing Ada felt like dealing with. “I mean this in the most....offensive way possible.” She stated simply, a brief pausing following suit as she stepped from the tree-line while her wolves took it upon themselves to start eating the hunter’s kill. “What, the fuck, are your people thinking, Celine?” 

[faebound]

Iris & Ada

@theartofruling

There always was something about unadulterated violence that served to bring out an individual’s true colours. A way to dig to the very core of a person’s being, rip away any and all pretence, and see just how far they were willing to go in order to survive. The anarchy that befell the tournament had been a frenzied one, but it had also served a purpose she’d never thought needed. A chance to see exactly what others were capable of. Those that held back during the events, those skilled in magics -- And those that when the chips were down, would simply run and cower.  

It had been an intriguing turn of events, one that every so often drifted through her mind even now. The Dawn Court never was a retinue she felt she could place trust in. There were far too many snakes in that autumnal grass laying in wait for her liking, but even so, she was never one to pass up a visit with an old friend. She had almost made it to the noble district when she happened upon a vaguely familiar visage. Walking over before her senses caught up and acknowledged it wasn’t in fact Cressida she’d be faced with. “I would say I’m surprise to see you here, but your mother inexplicitly mentioned a return to your father’s Court.” Ada offered in way of greeting, a faint smirk clinging to the corner of her lips. “The tiara suites you, princess.”  

[faebound]

Robin & Ada

@theartofruling

The Wild Hunt, and the Garden. It was only thing Ada had cared about in the initial fallout of all that chaos. While Night may have been allied to them, they had a capable general of their own, and she would not waste the resources at their disposal on those who would barely benefit. A military advisor was nothing if not adaptable after all, and a need to think on her feet in the short term had at least allowed her to flex those old muscles usually reserved for battlefields.

Orders had been set in motion. Warriors working as cohesive units in a verity of tasks while the Courts still fought over their old wounds, ignoring the very real threat the resistance possessed entirely. Ada would be the last to deny the appeal of a good fight, but she was not so foolish. A swift and sharp retribution when so many had anger clouding their judgement would not bode well, and it was Night they had targeted -- If anything, she would wait on their response, and aid if needed. The lupine fae had been conversing with a handful of scouts when Robin came into view. The easy familiarity that accompanied the huntress was no small thing, and Ada found herself pulled to the sense of brief respite she possessed. “Well this is a welcome surprise. To what do I owe the pleasure, darling?”  

[faebound]

Daphne & Ada

@gvldntrbl

As much as Ada begrudged to admit it, times of conflict and uncertainty would always be where she thrived. Being the hight of polite society when called upon for such falsities was often necessary, but invisible battlegrounds and strategics were far more perspicuous to her. The only aspect currently souring her mood to some extent was that it’d been Gabriel who had fallen prey to some mortal’s blade. They’d affiliated themselves with Night for a reason, and yet a single human had turned around and made them look weak.

Still, there were some advantages to unity she supposed. Mainly the increase of resources and power that could be derived from having a common enemy in the Resistance -- Should the nobles ever feel the need to get their heads out of their own asses long enough to acknowledge such. It had to start somewhere though, she was certainly guilty of her own trepidations when it came to those of other Courts. With such notions still fresh in her mind, she was perhaps a little more forward than usual when happening upon a somewhat familiar face. Sleep deprivation and the promise of alcohol was an odd mix indeed. “Daphne, is it?” She questioned upon approach, not the only group to be spending a night in nurtural territory it seemed. “I wished to thank you. Your aid with some of the pups after the fallout of the tournament did not go unnoticed.” They had many capable healers of their own of course, but this one had been needlessly kind. “I was wondering if you might join me for a drink? I know I could certainly use one, and the tavern isn’t far.”  

[faebound]

voxdaemonica​:

.

It was far more invigorating than Celine would admit, to see the subtle shift in Ada’s mood as soon as she had revealed herself. Any form of displeasure she could pull from the Wild Hunt Fae, from stealing a kill in the forest to knocking her clear to the ground in the middle of their many duels brought the human nothing but satisfaction. She wasn’t exactly sure when it started, but getting a rise of anger to flash in those unusual eyes of hers was something that had become a force of habit; an irresistible impulse built from years of unwanted encounters and constant clashing.

This was bolder than her usual attempts, out where there were allies from both of their respective sides possibly within earshot, but it wouldn’t matter once she got Ada to unsheathe those pretty claws of hers. And who was the Fae to deny her, when she had gone so long without these petty little games they so often played with one another?

The hunter let out a derisive snort at Ada’s implication. “Pfft, hardly. I ask an innocent question and you think I’m already soft on you?“ Celine scoffed, crossing her arms as she fell into the familiar space they shared between malice and aloofness. “I don’t think it unreasonable to wonder where a wolf has wandered off to when there’s still a score to be settled. Disappearing on me is hardly sportsmanlike, after all.” Not that whatever it was that they did together could ever be compared to some stuck-up tournament event. There were rules, certainly, but they were hardly spoken aloud, and their competitions were for a strict audience ot two. “And let’s be honest, if you didn’t so much as enjoy it at least a little, I doubt our run-ins would be as frequent as they are.”

Her grin faltered as the lupine woman failed to rise to her taunting, not that she had expected much from her first attempt. “Is that what you’ve been up to this whole time? Planning new tricks for me? I hadn’t imagined your creativity to be so limited that it required an artist’s retreat.“ Celine’s voice dropped to a sultry purr, moving closer in a silent challenge. “If you were lacking muse, you should have just come to visit me, darling. What fun we could have had in the dungeons.” The hunter sighed wistfully, lips parting slightly. “And I know just what cell to put you in too. Wouldn’t you make for such a delectable sight, all wrapped up in chains?”

- 

Ada always did rather appreciate her own levelheadedness. An ability to remain calm under duress and not rise to aggravations with anything but a swift, calculated hand served her well as the Hunt’s third-in-command -- Personality traits that were entirely thrown out the window, wherever Celine was concerned. The unexplainability of it was perhaps what vexed her most, but there was no one in the whole of Astralis able to get under her skin quite like the irritating blonde in front of her. She was abrasive, narcissistic, and yet hers in a way she couldn’t elucidate and loathed to admit. At least in the sense that the thought of her fighting all these other fae with little more than her fists served to set her on edge like nothing else. Her skill and capability in such circumstance be damned.     

“Nothing about you is innocent, Celine. Do not mistake me for one so foolish as to believe such.” She quipped back in response, brow raising as she smirked at the slightly defensive edge in her explanation. “I had no idea you waited on me so diligently for a rematch, or that our little games held any semblance of equitableness for that matter.” Unwritten ordinances perhaps, but never anything so impartial. “I’ll be sure to keep that in mind next time I have you all pinned to the ground and breathless. My sportsmanship must have been rather lacking on such occasions.” Ada taunted with a coy lilt, assessing every little reaction with unwavering eyes as she resolved to gloss over the infuriating accuracy of her counterargument entirely.

It was something she chose not to dwell on, head tilting at the bold assumption to follow instead. “Well someone is certainly full of themselves today. When exactly did I mention new tricks specifically for you? You’d simply be a trial run, dear. You’re not the threat i’m thinking of.” The fact that she knew full well Celine could be a very real one under normal circumstances was neither here nor there. Nothing about whatever this nexus was could be considered normal, the complete and utter hatred they held for each other’s kin was testament enough to that. Amaranthine eyes narrowed in enmity as she began to speak of dungeons and chains, the thought of what must be endured there causing a faint snarl to curl at her lips even if no retort left them. Vindictive words only held so much weight after all, and while she didn’t necessarily know how she felt about her current advantage of the hunter surrounded by so many fae, it was a usable one all the same. The swiftness of her conviction was so nimble she doubted anyone would even notice. A combination of extraordinarily enhanced reflex and tempered fury that had her pushing against the hunter’s chest with just enough force for her to go stumbling backwards.       

It was a movement subtle enough to merely appear as unsure footing, ones which Ada was quick to follow as she closed the newfound gap, backing her further into the distant corner of their waiting area. “You know, you should really work on this sheer audacity of yours, hunter. Just look at where it’s gotten you.” She simmered faintly, initial irateness evaporating as quickly as it surfaced with each step. “Given how incredibly dangerous it is for you to fight back outside of the arena, and with all these witnesses...The little act of performing monkey does not suit you, Celine. Just how long do you think you can keep it up?” She questioned, faint embers still residing in the pit of her stomach that had her throwing constraint to the wind. A hand idly reaching up to brush lustrous waves of gold over one shoulder only to weave her fingers into it. Such precise fluidity to the movement it would go entirely unnoticed by their overly ardent competitors, even as she angled her body as a barrier of sorts regardless. “And trust me, my darling, if we ever were to venture down that road...” She trailed off, tugging faintly to force her head a little further back as she leaned in close. Her voice lowering to an assertive murmur laced with seduction. “I certainly wouldn’t be the one all tied up.” 

[faebound]

chaoticdrkness​:

“You’re right. Always so wise Ada. This is why I need you around.” she nodded proudly in agreement. “I beat all the simpering idiots they threw my way.” she grinned, repeating the exact words which Ada had just said a minute ago. “If I had lost I think that would have been the true embarrassment. The pack might have questioned my skills and I don’t think my ego would have survived that.” Clara giggled, still riding out her high from her recent victory. “Everything’s on you? My luck continues! I’ll have whatever you’re having. I’m not too fussy, I’ll drink anything.”  Leaning against the counter as they waited for their drinks Clara’s eyes were bright, filled with excitement. “I’ve not had anything to drink yet I already feel far too happy..or maybe that’s the Ada effect.” As soon as the cheesy line left Clara’s lips she scrunched her nose, shaking her head in embarrassment. “That was an awful line, I’m sorry you had to hear that. Moving on, tell me, what have you been up to whilst I’ve been competing? I take it you’re not getting involved in the games?” 

- 

“Well I mean, surely that’s not the only reason?” The lupine fae questioned with a coy smirk, brow raising in silent challenged after such impetuous advances on Clara’s part. “You see? Much better. Now you’re starting to sound like a winner.” She quipped lightly, a faint tilt of her head following suit at the commented of quashed egos. “Well we certainly can’t be having that now can we? I happen to be rather partial to the affirmed confidence.” Ada offered in way of explanation, before giving a nod and adding another whiskey to their order. 

Her gaze never left the younger fae as she all but slinked up beside her. Chuckling faintly as Clara backtracked away from such a line before it even had a second to linger, deft fingers reached up to cup just under her chin in response. “Entirely too corny, and yet still rather sweet.” She teased casually, a semblance of reassurance behind her light tone. “As it is I can’t say i’m not enjoying this newfound bravado of yours.” There always was something about those who held a slight smugness to their ribbing. A vague sort of defiance before inevitably giving into her only made it all the more delectable to witness. “I’ve simply been enjoying the festivities, nothing all too exciting. I partook in a fighting tournament early on for the sake of contribution, but that’s as far as it went.”

[faebound]

wickedgxmes​:

“Children? Wow. What ever you say, Grandma. Just be careful not to break your back in the trials. Alright?” Gwen rolled her eyes lightly over at Ada’s playful dig. “What’s the problem there?” She pointed out with a quirk of the brow. “Only, if you’ve already won the Oberon trials, wouldn’t you have already shown off your capabilities meaning you’d have nothing to lose now?” She offered up. An innocent smile tugging at the corner of her lips as peeked over at Ada.

“But, if you insist, I guess I’ll happy try my shot at picking up the mantle,” She gave Aida an small shrug as she bounced ever so slightly back and forth on the balls of her feet.

-

“Ah, you caught me. The real reason i’m not longer competing in the games. Just be sure not to tell anyone.” The lupine fae added with a faint chuckle, her gaze falling to the princess momentarily. “If I compete, I want to win. And if I want to win I don’t hold back. I’d rather stay out of it entirely.” Ada continued with a light shrug, smirking as she shook her head slightly. “Oh you’d be surprised how quick our kin are to forget such things. This event occurs yearly, my dear, do you truly believe most can recall triumphs from near centuries ago?” 

“You should, a wonderful trophy to place besides that dainty little tiara of yours.” She hummed playfully, an air of confidence placed solely in the thought this Day Court royalty was far too wild to care for such a thing so haughtily. “So how about you? Have you competed in many of the trials so far?”         

[faebound]

wickedgxmes​:

“The recent events were certainly something that was taken under consideration, but we have the reputation of being warriors at heart for a reason. A similar sentiment, I imagine, that is shared between our two courts. We prefer to celebrate our fallen and build them up for their many accomplishes rather than to dwell in mourning and what better time for a reminder of unity between courts than now?” Gemma pointed out with an eased shrug, slipping her hands into the pockets of her tailored pants as she motioned with a crane of her neck towards the hearty sounds of laughter from groups of different fae of all kinds and courts around them. 

“The Highwinds have carried on in spite of wars, changes of leadership, and every other element thrown at us over the past however many centuries and it will not stop now. But, as for changes in preparations, not to worry. Our newly appointed Captain of the Guard has been hard at work tightening security and we the best fighters in Astralis from far and wide competing. Which brings me to you. If I remember you used to be quite the competitor back in the day. You’re sure there is no chance I can sway you to try to reclaim your title?”

- 

“A shared sentiment indeed. Though I suppose, unfortunately, we’re a little more privy to bouts of distrust.” It was no disadvantage in her eyes, but she had come to understand Autumn in their brazenness. Being a separate entity from any particular court affiliation for so long had perks, regardless of the fact they were no longer a luxury offered given their new association with the Night Court. “You are and always will be the court most zealous for peace, it’s a commendable endeavour.” If not a slightly futile one, in her opinion. Something that she knew full well was the reason she would always follow Lucien’s lead entirely. Hers was a head for strategy, but not necessarily politics. Unity between all courts simply felt like laughable affair given the deceitfulness of nobility, but she also could hardly argue that from a general standpoint, the populace were far more jovial here.  

“You are right of course, it can be a much needed respite for most.” There was no denying the enlivened spirits at such an event, and it did rather work wonders for separating the wolves from the sheep. “Newly appointed?” The lupine fae questioned casually, a notion somewhat unexpected and yet entirely comprehensible. “Understandably I suppose. Second chances are rarely granted for negligence such as that.” The persistence of light and casual conversation was something she strived to maintain, even as a plethora of questions began running about her mind. Intrigued as to their vetting process for such an astute position given its proximity to the death of their High Lord. Still, she was likely grasping at straws. A faint smile tugged at her lips with the question of regaining her title, before she waved a hand dismissively. “I’m not the competitor I once was. Best to bow out gracefully and leave it to those who still feel they have something to prove. How about yourself, dear? Not interest in showing these younglings how it’s done?”   

[dylan-obrien]

[thepersonalquotes]

[malemuses-blog]

“I spent my life learning to feel less.”

— Jonathan Safran Foer (via quotemadness)