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emilystheories · 4 months

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The Bryce and Azriel theory.

Matching weapons, ancient prophecies, dusk, and true equals.

Before you scroll away or block (which I totally understand if you do anyway - you are entitled to curate your own experience on here!), please note that I am not trying to convert anyone to this ship. I am fully aware that most people in the fandom are in favour of Gwynriel, Elriel, Elucien, and/or Quinlar, and I 100% respect those preferences.

I am also not saying this is canon, or will be canon - it's a theory. However, I very rarely (if ever) see people correctly talk about the actual evidence for the Bryce x Az pairing, especially when they're mocking it as nothing more than a 'crackship.' Given the sheer size of this post (and the fact that it took me weeks to put together), it's no surprise that I disagree with such a sentiment.

Feel free to form your own opinion on the matter; I only ask that you keep an open mind. And if that's not possible, then at the very least, I hope this is still an entertaining read, as it breaks down a sizeable chunk of the SJM multiverse.

(So, evidently: SJM universe spoilers ahead).

[art by Gabrielle Ragusi].

To begin: Bryce's connections to dusk.

Throughout both Crescent City books, Bryce is repeatedly connected to dusk. For example:

Bryce's scent is of dusk.

One of the first things Hunt notices about Bryce is that her scent is of the "first stars at nightfall." Nightfall is another word for dusk. This is important, as SJM often uses scent to foreshadow a character's true home (e.g. Rowan's scent being of Terrasen).

"She's here," Hunt said. The scent of her still lingering on the sidewalk, lilac and nutmeg and something he couldn't quite place - like the gleam of the first stars at nightfall."

Bryce is repeatedly associated with dusk imagery.

For example, Bryce often has her nails painted in "twilight" colours (again, another word for dusk), and even her damn nipples are described as being "dusk rose."

"She examined her nails, now painted in some sort of color gradient that went from pink to periwinkle tips. Like the sky at twilight."

Bryce is obsessed with pegasuses and unicorns (which originated from the Dusk Court).

Bryce has been obsessed with pegasus dolls (i.e. Jelly Jubilee!) since book 1; they are iconic to her character. In fact, there is a unicorn-pegasus hidden on the cover of every Crescent City book (see image below).

It's then no coincidence that the pegasuses in Prythian came from the Prison Island... the Dusk Court.

"According to legend, the pegasuses had come from the island the Prison sat upon—"

"Dusk's Truth"

The entirety of Crescent City 2 centred around "Dusk's Truth," which was confirmed to be about the Dusk Court. This logically implies that dusk (and the Dusk Court) is a pivotal aspect of Bryce's storyline.

This is also why I believe that Bryce's entrance into Prythian isn't just a fun cameo, nor a brief, temporary visit (as many seem to believe) -- instead, all roads point to dusk.

"An isle of near-permanent twilight, the home world of her breed of Fae … A land of Dusk." “Dusk’s Truth,” Bryce breathed. It wasn’t just the name of this room that Danika had been talking about with Sofie."

Bryce is also connected to Prythian.

As much as people try to deny this (for reasons I still don't understand), Bryce is strongly connected to the ACOTAR world, and this has been heavily foreshadowed all along. For example:

Bryce is the true owner of Gwydion; the High King of Prythian's sword.

Crescent City 2 makes clear that Bryce is the true owner of the Starsword (or Gwydion, as it is known in the ACOTAR world).

"He snarled. "The sword belongs to Theia's female heir. Not the male offspring who corrupted her line."

But, this isn't just any sword - it's the sword of the first and only High King of Prythian.

In ACOSF, Amren states that Rhys could use Nesta's "made" swords to set himself up as High King. So, what does that mean for Bryce, who owns the real deal?

“But you, Rhysand, are not.” Amren nodded to the still-rotating weapons. “With these three blades, you could make yourself High King.”

Bryce literally glows for Prythian.

Bryce possesses a star on her chest that is a "beacon" to Prythian; its purpose is to guide people home to the ACOTAR world.

As such, Bryce literally glows and lights up for Prythian. Not Midgard. Prythian.

"The star on your chest - do you know what that is?" "Let's assume I know nothing," Bryce said grimly. Rigelus inclined his head. "It's a beacon to the world from which the Fae originally came."

Bryce possesses the exact starlight of Theia; the rightful queen of the Starborn fae in Prythian.

The star inside of Bryce's chest is that of Queen Theia's. Bryce's starlight is Theia's starlight. It's even suggested that Bryce possesses the same powers that Theia once did (though, she hasn't yet accessed said powers). It's for this reason that many believe that Bryce is the reincarnation of Queen Theia.

“I thought Theia’s light was forever extinguished.” “So did I. I thought they’d made sure she and her power died on that last battlefield under Prince Pelias’s blade.” His eyes glowed with ancient rage. “But Bryce Quinlan bears her light.”

But Theia wasn't just any old queen. Instead, she was the queen of the Starborn fae in Prythian (with it being hinted that she once ruled the Dusk Court).

As such, I find it hard to believe that the land (and the Cauldron) won't recognise this; that Theia (Bryce) has come home at last.

“I remember the last Starborn Queen, Theia, and her powers.” He seemed to shudder."

[art by AnaSebag].

Putting two and two together; Bryce is likely the future High Lady of the Dusk Court.

At the end of CC2, Rigelus confirmed that Bryce's bloodline - the Starborn fae - not only originated from Prythian, but specifically lived in a "land of dusk."

"An isle of near-permanent twilight, the home world of her breed of Fae... A land of Dusk."

Putting all the clues together across both the ACOTAR and CC books, this is likely in reference to the Dusk Court. ACOTAR readers will know this as the Prison Island (which was suggested to be the "eighth court").

"Rhys told me once that this island might have even been an eighth court.”

In linking with this, when Nesta visits the Prison Island (Dusk Court) in ACOSF, she senses that "something great" had once existed here, but seemingly vanished. However, she then states that the land "still waited for it to return." Many agree that this is in reference to Bryce and the Starborn fae.

"The very land seemed abandoned. Like something great had once existed here and then vanished. Like the land still waited for it to return."

However, now that Bryce has indeed returned to the Dusk Court (or is about to in CC3); I believe that her presence will awaken the Dusk Court once more, and what was vanished, will return.

As foreshadowing of this, recall this scene in CC1:

"The gentle illumination danced on Bryce’s hair as she ambled down the stone path, night-blooming flowers opening around her. Jasmine lay heavy in the twilight air, sweet and beckoning." "Bryce didn’t flinch as he dropped into step beside her. “I wanted some fresh air.” She admired an unfurling fern, its fronds lit from within to illuminate every vein." "She continued past beds of night crocuses, their purple petals shimmering amid the vibrant moss. The garden seemed to awaken for her, welcome her."

Bryce is walking through a garden. As she continues walking, flowers open around her, and ferns unfurl in her presence. Hunt remarks that it's as if the garden "seemed to awaken" for Bryce.

And the kicker is; as this was happening, Bryce was walking though the "twilight air." This scene occurred during dusk.

Let's also not forget that the star on Bryce's chest is that of an eight-pointed star; the symbol of the Starborn fae (the same symbol engraved on the Prison Island floor, as shown in ACOSF). As a comparison, that's like Rhys having the Night Court insignia branded on his chest... it's rather overt foreshadowing.

“Well,” she said with a sigh, “that’s new.” Indeed, just visible down the V-neck of her T-shirt, a white splotch—an eight-pointed star—now scarred the place between her breasts."

Combined with the fact that Bryce is the heir to the Starborn fae, that she possesses Queen Theia's starlight, that she glows for Prythian, and that even her scent is of dusk... there's no one better suited (and heavily foreshadowed) to rule the Dusk Court, than Bryce Quinlan.

"Homecoming."

As we know, Bryce has now just arrived in the true home world of her people: Prythian.

"An isle of near-permanent twilight, the home world of her breed of Fae... A land of Dusk."

The instance of returning back home is known as a "homecoming."

"Homecoming" [noun]: an instance of returning home. (e.g. "she spent most of the day preparing for her husband's homecoming.")

And, that's exactly what SJM (curiously) labelled this image on her Pinterest board for Bryce.

Many believe this image to look like Bryce and Azriel (especially when SJM could have labelled it "Bryce and Hunt," which she happily did for the other photos on her CC Pinterest board...), and thus, the Bryce x Azriel theory begins.

The knife and the sword.

In the first Crescent City book, we are told of an ancient fae prophecy; "when knife and sword are reunited, so shall our people be."

"It's another of the Fae's countless inane prophecies," Bryce muttered. "When knife and sword are reunited, so shall our people be." "It's literally carved above the Fae Archives entrance - whatever the fuck it means," Ruhn said."

We now know that this prophecy is referring to Azriel's knife (Truth-Teller) and Bryce's sword (the Starsword). Keep in mind that SJM could have connected this prophecy to any number of characters, but she specifically chose Bryce and Azriel.

Additionally, we are also told that the knife and sword need to stay together in order to activate their full powers. Given the importance of these weapons in defeating the Asteri/Daglan, this suggests that Bryce and Azriel will also need to stay together in some capacity.

"Ruhn shook his head. "The sword doesn't work like that. Aside from being picky about who draws it, the sword has no power without the knife."

[art by itswibell_art]

Azriel as Starborn.

The Starsword (Gwydion) is a Starborn weapon, as only those with enough Starborn blood can wield it.

"Ruhn shook his head. "The sword doesn't work like that. Aside from being picky about who draws it, the sword has no power without the knife."

Given that Truth-Teller is the twin to the Starsword, this suggests that the knife is also a Starborn weapon. And, the fact that Azriel can wield it, implies that he too is Starborn (or at least connected in some capacity).

This is further substantiated in CC2, in which we learn that the Starborn fae aren't just those with starlight powers, but shadow powers too. This was confirmed by Cormac, who stated that the ability to wield shadows (and teleport through them) was once a gift of the Starborn fae.

"But Hunt didn't so much as sniff as he asked Cormac, "Where did you inherit the ability from?" Cormac squared his shoulders, ever inch the proud prince as he said, "It was once a gift of the Starborn. It was the reason I became so... focused on attaining the Starsword."

In fact, Cormac believed that because he could teleport using his shadows, this was an indication that the Starborn bloodline had resurfaced in him. However, this wasn't true; he had "some Starborn blood," but not enough to be "worthy of the blade."

"I thought my ability to teleport meant that the bloodline had resurfaced in me, as I've never met anyone else who can do it." His eyes guttered as he added, "As you know, I was wrong. Some Starborn blood, apparently, but not enough to be worthy of the blade."

But, do you know who can also use their shadows to teleport...? Azriel.

And, do you know who else has been "deemed worthy" and can wield a "Starborn blade" (i.e. Truth-Teller)? Azriel.

[art by cludi_a_]

Bryce + Azriel = Dusk Court.

The crux of this theory is that with their matching weapons and connections to the Starborn narrative, Bryce and Azriel represent the two halves of the Dusk Court.

This is because dusk is the crossover between the light and the dark.

This is further exemplified by SJM's own definition of dusk, as seen in Throne of Glass:

"Nightfall. That was when Maeve had told Erawan to meet. That liminal space between light and dark, when one force yielded to another."

As such, Bryce is light, and Azriel is dark. This is evidenced by their powers:

Bryce's power is pure starlight.

Azriel's power is pure shadows (in comparison to other characters, who have shadow powers + something else).

Further, and perhaps most importantly; Bryce and Azriel's weapons also symbolise this same dusk imagery:

Bryce's sword (the Starsword), glows with a GLITTERING, WHITE LIGHT (as if symbolising starlight).

Azriel's knife (Truth-Teller), glows with a DARK LIGHT (as if symbolising shadows).

"It was its twin. The Starsword began to hum within its sheath, glittering white light leaking from where leather met the dark hilt. The dagger - The male dropped the dagger to the plush carpet. All of them retreated as it flared with dark light."

Bryce (starlight) + Azriel (shadows) = Dusk.

And I mean, look at that dusk imagery on the CC3 cover (when the previous two covers were just solid red and black...).

(I'll also point out that the sword and knife are featured on this cover, with the knife right over the woman's heart...)

Alpha and Omega.

Further, Bryce's sword and Azriel's knife - together - is described as "Alpha and Omega."

"The male dropped the dagger to the plush carpet. All of them retreated as it flared with dark light, as if in answer. Alpha and Omega."

This term means "the beginning and the end."

"Alpha and Omega" [noun]: "the beginning and ending."

Which, is also a term that SJM often uses to describe love, or mated couples. For example, Feyre and Rhys:

"and saw and smelled that bond between us, until our scents merged, and I was his and he was mine, and we were the beginning and the middle and the end."

And this quote here, from Throne of Glass:

"She would find that love again—one day. And it would be deep and unrelenting and unexpected, the beginning and the end and eternity, the kind that could change history, change the world."

Additionally, when the weapons are finally together at the end of CC2, it's said that Azriel's knife glowed "in answer" to Bryce's sword.

"The male dropped the dagger to the plush carpet. All of them retreated as it flared with dark light, as if in answer."

They are matching halves.

Bryce and Azriel as rulers.

Given everything mentioned thus far, I believe that Bryce and Azriel are destined to become the High Lady and High Lord of the Dusk Court.

But, I actually think it goes one step further than this, and it has to do with Bryce's likely rule as High Queen of Prythian. As proof of this:

SJM is drawing from Arthurian mythology, and Bryce is King Arthur.

Throughout both Crescent City books, there are a number of nods to Arthurian mythology. Most obviously is Avallen Island (where Cormac lives), which is likely inspired by the renowned Avalon Island.

In fact, Ruhn retrieving the Starsword from the Avallen caves (and being "deemed worthy" to "pull the sword from its sheath") seemingly parallels King Arthur being deemed worthy of the famous sword, Excalibur, and thus being able to pull the sword from the stone.

"That your son, not you, stood among the long-dead Starborn Princes asleep in their sarcophagi and was deemed worthy to pull the sword from its sheath."

However, as mentioned previously; CC2 makes very clear that the Starsword belongs to Theia's "female heir." The Starsword belongs to Bryce.

As such, I believe that in this series, King Arthur is actually represented by Bryce. And, as further proof of this, consider Rigelus's words at the end of CC2; that Bryce's star glows for those she chooses as her "knights."

"It also glows for those who you choose as your loyal companions. Knights."

Just like King Arthur's own knights; the famed Knights of the Round Table.

King Arthur was the High King of Great Britain. And, Prythian is in the shape of Great Britain.

Putting two and two together, could this suggest that Bryce will become the High Queen of Prythian?

2. Bryce has the High King's sword.

As mentioned previously, Bryce is the true owner of the Starsword (Gwydion). The same sword that the High King of Prythian once wielded long ago. That alone is heavy foreshadowing.

3. Bryce is repeatedly foreshadowed as a queen.

For example, Hunt often notices Bryce's queenly demeanour:

"She spoke with the imperiousness of a queen. Hunt could only rise with her."

And even the contact name for Bryce in Hunt's phone is "Bryce Is a Queen."

Ruhn also implores Bryce to become queen:

"But you have to live, Bryce. You have to be queen."

To which Cormac agrees, stating that the decision to lead their people forward, will be up to Bryce:

"But after today..." Cormac's words grew heavy. Weary. "I think the choice about whether to lead our people forward will be up to you now."

Additionally, SJM often uses the phrase "lifted their chin" when someone is signifying their authority (e.g. "she lifted her chin, every inch the queen"). Then when Bryce meets Feyre and Rhys, the same term is used:

"So Bryce addressed the two of them as she lifted her chin. “My name is Bryce Quinlan.”

And most of all, is Ruhn's final words to Bryce:

"Her brother pulled away. And Ruhn said, shining with pride, “Long live the queen.”

(Speaking of Ruhn, recall his prophecy from the Oracle; that the royal bloodline ends with him. Considering that he is connected to both the Valbaran and Avallen royal houses, this suggests that there won't be any 'queen positions' left for Bryce to take in Midgard. But, there might be in Prythian...)

4. Bryce has Queen Theia's starlight (and likely her same powers).

Again, as mentioned previously, Theia ruled in Prythian (with some even believing that she was High Queen).

If it's bloodline alone that determines who would be High King/Queen (as Amren appears to suggest in ACOSF), then again, as Bryce is the true heir to the Starborn fae, placing her at spot #1.

5. Bryce glows for the ACOTAR world.

The star in Bryce's chest glows for Prythian. She is a beacon for Prythian. That's queen symbolism right there.

6. Bryce is a main character.

It is a well-known fact that all of SJM's leading ladies rise to power; Aelin as Queen of Terrasen, and Feyre as High Lady of the Night Court.

And, although I have heard some solid theories suggesting that Rhys or Lucien may become High King... it's also a well-known fact that SJM loves a female ruler (especially when Prythian is already so overly patriarchal).

Bryce, however, would be perfect.

[art by Gabrielle Ragusi]

7. Lastly, and perhaps the most important of all: Bryce is foreshadowed to unite the worlds.

Notably, the last High King (Fionn) rose to power because he united the people of Prythian.

"A millennium of peace followed, and the lands were divided into rough territories that were the precursors to the courts—but at the end of those thousand years, they were at each other’s throats, on the brink of war.” His face tightened. “Fionn unified them and set himself above them as High King. The first and only High King this land has ever had.”

Bryce is foreshadowed to do the same, as per that same ancient fae prophecy; "when knife and sword are reunited, so shall our people be" (and, this is where Azriel comes in).

Although this prophecy can be interpreted in a variety of ways, I believe it to mean that Bryce and Azriel will reunite the Starborn fae, lost across two worlds (Midgard and Prythian). A unification of people... just as Fionn once achieved.

Now, it is theorised that Bryce and Azriel will continue this legacy, as High Queen and High King. In doing so:

Bryce will represent the Midgardian fae, Azriel will represent the Prythian fae.

Bryce will represent starlight, Azriel will represent shadows. Light and dark. Dusk.

Together, Bryce and Azriel are two halves of whole. Alongside their weapons - which are also matching halves - you can't get anymore equal than that.

As mates are supposed to be.

A common rebuttal to this theory, however, is the belief that Azriel "doesn't have what it takes" to become a High Lord or a High King -- that he is inferior to other contenders (such as the likes of Feyre and Rhys).

Yet, I'd argue that the one character who could match up to Feyre and Rhys (and has foreshadowing hinting as such; power-wise)... would be Azriel. For example:

With Feyre (ACOSF):

“Give me some credit, Feyre,” Az said. “I can keep hidden well enough.” “We take no risks,” Feyre said, voice flat with command. “Pull all your spies out.” “Like hell I will.”

With Rhys (ACOFAS):

“And what would you have me do, then? Disband the largest army in Prythian?” Az didn’t answer. I held his gaze, though. Held that ice-cold stare that still sometimes scared the shit out of me."

“You sure about that?” I asked quietly. Azriel’s Siphons guttered, the stones turning as dark and foreboding as the deepest sea. “Where did Lucien go.” I straightened at the pure order in the words."

Az nodded knowingly. He’d always understood me best—more than the others. Save my mate. Whether it was his gifts that allowed him to do so, or merely the fact that he and I were more similar than most realized, I’d never learned.

With Rhys (ACOSF; the bonus chapter):

"Azriel stiffened. Let his cold rage rise to the surface, the rage he only ever let Rhysand see, because he knew his brother could match it."

Similarly, it is also argued that Azriel would "never leave the Night Court." Yet, take it from Azriel himself; that he too is not sure where he truly fits in.

"I don’t really know where I fit in anymore,” I admitted, perhaps only because the wind was screeching around us and Rhys had already winnowed ahead to where Cassian’s dark form flew—beyond the wall. “I’ve been alive almost five and a half centuries, and I’m not sure of that, either,” Azriel said."

Combined with Azriel's disdain for the Illyrians and their culture (and the fact that when Az refers to the Illyrians, he will often say "they/them" as opposed to "we/us"...) could it be that something else is in store for Azriel's future?

Especially when we know Azriel has always been so curious about what lies beyond...

"At the far end of the room, a little dais led into a broad raised alcove flanked by more books—and in its center, a massive, working model of their world, the stars and planets around it, and some other fancy things that had been explained to Cassian once before he deemed them boring and proceeded to ignore them completely. Az, of course, had been fascinated."

Bryce and Azriel's beast forms.

If Bryce and Azriel are indeed set to become High Lady and High Lord of the Dusk Court, then they will presumably possess beast forms.

To expand on this, in a recent Marie Claire interview (August 2023), SJM stated that her favourite place to write is her desk, where she's surrounded by the things that remind her of the current book she's writing.

SJM: "I like to write at my desk, where I'm surrounded by lots of little items that remind me of either the book I'm writing, or things that just make me happy."

SJM then mentioned that when writing House of Flame and Shadow, she kept a vintage My Little Pony pegasus figure that was the inspiration for Jelly Jubilee.

SJM: "While writing House of Flame and Shadow, for instance, I had a vintage My Little Pony figure with me that was the inspiration for Bryce's beloved Jelly Jubilee!"

Then, when SJM announced the title of Crescent City 3, we were offered a glimpse of her desk, and sure enough - that vintage My Little Pony figure is right there.

But most importantly, this tells us that the items featured in this video aren't just random, but are instead (part of) the inspiration for House of Flame and Shadow.

Which then begs the question; what is the Godzilla toy hinting at? Well, the only connection I have been able to make... is to Azriel.

As proof of this, recall that in ACOMAF, Azriel's Siphon is described as being the "great eye" of a "half-slumbering beast" from a "frozen wasteland."

"I watched the light shift inside the sapphire Siphon instead, as if it were the great eye of some half-slumbering beast from a frozen wasteland."

This description matches Godzilla almost perfectly; who is an ancient monster, often slumbering at the bottom of the ocean, and also often frozen within ice.

And, if Azriel's Siphons are supposed to be reminiscent of the "great eye" of this beast, then it's perhaps no coincidence that Godzilla is famed for his blue, glowing eyes.

Similarly, Godzilla's atomic breath manifests as blue fire (which is what you can see coming out of the mouth of SJM's own Godzilla toy).

Coincidentally (or perhaps not), Azriel - and specifically his Siphons - are repeatedly described as blue flame.

"The shadows deepened around Ariel, his Siphons gleaming like cobalt fire."

"Azriel caught his eye. Rhys nodded. The Siphons atop his scarred hands flickered like rippling blue fire as he reached for the Attor."

"Illyrian lines buckled. Azriel sailed closer and closer to them, Siphons trailing tendrils of blue flame in his wake."

In linking with this, I have also theorised that Bryce has a beast form, and that hers will be a unicorn-pegasus (as outlandish as that may sound, it's one of my most well-received theories; link here).

Thus, I believe that the pegasus and Godzilla toys on SJM's desk in the CC3 reveal video, are symbolic of Bryce and Azriel.

Bryce and Azriel meeting for the first time.

When CC2 first came out, people started shipping Bryce and Azriel based on their first interaction alone. Some even noted that Azriel acted in a particularly uncharacteristic manner towards Bryce; he touched her repeatedly, and seemingly showed more emotion (or rather, a lack of composure) than what is usual. For example:

"He hissed, and then a strong hand clamped on her shoulder, hauling her up and twisting her to face him."

"The male’s hands were gentle but thorough as he fitted it tightly over her eyes."

"He set her down, taking her by the hand."

"He caught her, and sighed. She could have sworn he sounded … exasperated. He gave no warning as he hauled her over a shoulder and tromped down a set of stairs."

(It is argued that this is because Bryce is a danger/threat; but if that was true, then why would Azriel take Bryce to the townhouse?)

To me, the last line is the most significant. Azriel is usually calm and collected. He is polite and respectful towards women. Yet within only a couple of minutes, he is already frustrated and "exasperated" with Bryce, and he immediately chucks her over his shoulder.

[art by Paint Faery]

And speaking of parallels to other couples, Azriel and Bryce meeting for the first time seemingly shares many parallels with Feyre and Rhys meeting for this first time:

As well as parallels to Elide and Lorcan meeting for the first time:

And although this is more of a fun tidbit (one I acknowledge is definitely a reach), it's interesting that in ACOSF, we are told that mating ceremonies are commemorated using black ribbons.

"But all that mattered, she realized, was the male who would be standing with her, first as they swore their vows, then as they offered each other food, and then as their friends and family bound their hands together with a length of black ribbon, to remain until the mating was consummated.

Then, this is what Azriel does as soon as he meets Bryce...

[art by witchlingsart]

It's also interesting to note that when SJM was asked about her "favourite part" of HOSAB (in an interview with Entertainment Today), she answered the "penultimate chapter," where "a lot of major things come together for Bryce."

Interviewer: "What is your favorite part of House of Sky and Breath?" SJM: "The penultimate chapter - where a lot of major things come together for Bryce!"

SJM is referring to the very chapter mentioned above; when Bryce meets Azriel and the Inner Circle.

Bryce was "yanked" into Prythian.

Speaking of the penultimate chapter of HOSAB (and the events leading up to it), we know that Bryce originally intended to travel to Hel. However, her journey to the underworld was interrupted, as Bryce was instead "yank[ed]" into Prythian.

"It was the last sound Bryce heard as the darkness within the Gate swallowed her whole. She fell, slowly and without end—and sideways. Not a plunge down, but a yank across."

The definition of "yank," is pull, or tug. And, it is a word frequently used when SJM is describing the mating bond. For example, with Feyre and Rhys:

"No sign of him. No pound of beating wings. But the tug yanked again in my mind, my gut - a summoning. Like some servant's bell."

As such, fans of the Bryce x Az ship often speculate that Bryce was "yanked" into Prythian, right at Azriel's feet, because of their (yet to be discovered) mating bond.

Mor and Azriel = Bryce and Azriel.

It is widely accepted in the fandom that SJM initially intended for Mor and Azriel to be endgame (before changing this in ACOWAR). Not only is this because of the way Mor and Azriel interact in ACOMAF, but SJM's Pinterest board also strongly hinted at their pairing, for example:

With this in mind, consider that whenever Azriel's shadows were around Mor in ACOMAF (when they were likely supposed to be endgame), they lightened and faded in her presence.

"It was almost enough to distract me from noticing Azriel as those shadows lightened, and his gaze slid over Mor's body."

"Azriel, who kept a step away, whose shadows trailed him and seemed to fade in her presence."

Curiously, in the final chapter of CC2, Bryce doesn't mention Azriel's shadows once (when in comparison, she always noticed Ruhn and Cormac's shadows...). As such, could it be that Azriel's shadows lighten and fade in Bryce's presence?

Consider also these points connecting Mor/Azriel to Bryce/Azriel:

In ACOMAF, it's mentioned that Mor's family once ruled the Prison Island. However, we now know that the Prison Island is most strongly connected to Bryce; the Dusk Court.

In ACOMAF, we learn that Azriel's knife is called "Truth-Teller." Many speculate that this was also evidence of Mor and Azriel being endgame (as his knife was "Truth-Teller," and Mor has the power of "Truth"). However, now Truth-Teller is connected to Bryce and the Starsword.

Additionally, if we know that SJM once believed Mor and Azriel to be compatible, then it's worth noting how similar Mor and Bryce are:

Both Mor and Bryce have very similar personalities. In fact, if you're into MBTI (and are familiar with Personality Database), you'll note that both Mor and Bryce are said have the ESFP personality type.

Both Mor and Bryce are physically described in the exact same way. An example of this is outlined below:

"[Mor] wore a gown of pure white, little more than a slip of silk that showed off her generous curves. Indeed, a glance over her shoulder revealed Azriel staring blatantly at the back view of it, Cassian and the stranger already too deep in conversation to notice what had drawn the spymaster's attention. For a moment, the ravenous hunger on Azriel's face made my stomach tighten."

"Bryce Quinlan leaned against the large ironwood desk in the center of the space, her snow-white dress clinging to every generous curve and dip."

Although these comparisons in itself aren't a slam dunk of any sort (as evidently, Azriel is attracted to lots of different body types/people/personalities), I just can't help but wonder if SJM did a copy + paste with Mor and Bryce for this very reason...?

[art by mftfernandez and wictorian_art]

Speaking of personalities...

Although Bryce and Azriel have only interacted for a single chapter (yet are already causing waves with that alone!), some readers have been contemplating their (potential) compatibility.

More specifically, it appears that Bryce frequently mirrors Azriel's dark and cold demeanour. For example:

"The sprite crawled off her arm and floated in front of her, arms wrapping across her round belly. "You can be cold as a Reaper, Bryce."

"Bryce said quietly, her amber eyes full of cold fire, "I'll find them." She met the Archangel's gaze. "And then I want you to wipe them off the fucking planet."

"Bryce's face remained cold as stone. Colder. Males approached, saw that expression, and didn't venture closer."

"The last gift of the synth before it destroyed her. Yet in her eyes. ... he saw no haze of insanity, of self-destructive frenzy. Only cold, glittering vengeance."

"That icy look—their father’s look—passed over her face. The sort of look that told him there was a wild, wicked storm raging beneath that cold exterior. And the power and thrill for both father and daughter lay not in sheer force, but in the control over the self, over those impulses. The outside world saw his sister as reckless, unchecked—but he knew she’d been the master of her fate since before he’d met her."

In line with this, there have been frequent discussions within the fandom that Azriel needs "healing" or "curing" from his darkness; that he needs to "change his ways." But, what if instead, Azriel needs someone who can match, and embrace his darkness?

And what if that person is Bryce?

(Speaking of 'embracing the darkness,' I find it interesting that Azriel "is a freak," as confirmed by SJM herself. With that in mind, let me remind you that upon first meeting Bryce, Azriel put a knife to her throat and then blindfolded her...).

[art by brielyasmin]

The Little Mermaid: a hint to Bryce and Az?

I know this is a popular Gwynriel theory (with extremely valid evidence to support it!), which is exactly why I haven't spoken about this connection before, as I don't want to offend anyone.

However, I am going to briefly mention it (only once) right now, and suggest that The Little Mermaid retelling SJM has alluded to, may in fact be Bryce and Azriel.

To first demonstrate this: there are several similarities between Bryce and Ariel (the mermaid).

Bryce and Ariel both have red hair (in comparison, Gwyn is canonically more of a brunette, with "coppery-brown" hair).

Ariel's story is about her journey from life underwater, to life in the human lands (where she meets Eric). Bryce's story involves her journey from Midgard, to Prythian (where she meets Azriel).

However, upon arriving in the human lands, Ariel's voice has been stolen; she cannot communicate with Eric. Similarly, Bryce arrives in Prythian and does not speak their language; she cannot communicate with Azriel.

In Ariel's story, the main antagonist is Ursula, a witch. Bryce also knows (a rather suspicious) witch... Jesiba.

[art by Morgana0anagrom]

Further, many in the fandom have already pointed out that SJM saved a variety of 'The Little Mermaid' inspired photos to her Pinterest. However, SJM specifically saved these photos under a Pinterest board titled "Story Kernels," meaning that we have no idea whether it's in reference to ACOTAR, CC or both (or neither!)

Some believe these photos to be reminiscent of Gwyn, but, when you compare these photos to the Pinterest images SJM saved of Bryce... the resemblance is most certainly there as well.

However, some may argue that "Bryce has no real link to mermaids" (in comparison to Gwyn, who has water-nymph heritage; though, that's different from being a mermaid as well).

But I disagree. Recall that in CC2, Bryce seems to rely on other people to "charge up" her power (such as Hunt and Hypaxia). However, I don't believe that is the true manifestation of her abilities. Instead, Bryce hints that she can feel a "giant cloud" of power inside her, one that she can't yet access.

"Bryce sucked in a sharp breath. “I can feel it—like, this giant cloud of power right there.” She ran a finger over the eight-pointed star scarred between her breasts. Starlight pulsed at her fingertip. Like an answering heartbeat. “But I can’t access it.”

The bulk of Bryce's power came from the Gates in Lunathion. Power that was donated by thousands (perhaps even hundreds of thousands) of different beings every time they touched the Gates. And given that the civilians of Midgard herald from different worlds... the variety of this power is staggering.

And it's exactly this power that I believe Bryce can feel (as the "giant cloud") but can't yet access. The evidence for this is engraved into the Gates themselves; "the power shall always belong to those who give their lives to the city." Just as Bryce did.

"The quartz Gates were memorials, though she didn’t know for which conflict or war. But each bore the same plaque: The power shall always belong to those who give their lives to the city."

As such, I believe Bryce's true power is that of the four houses of Midgard; she is Earth & Blood, Sky & Breath, Flame & Shadow, and Many Waters. It's similar to Feyre's power (but x 100).

(And, look again at the cover of CC3 and tell me it doesn't align perfectly with this...)

We even see this in canon when Bryce is making the Drop (after obtaining the power from the Gates):

"But his princess fought for every bit of progress upward, her power shifting, traces of everyone who’d given it to her coming through: mer, shifter, draki, human, angel, sprite, Fae."

"She was sea and sky and stone and blood and wings and earth and stars and darkness and light and bone and flame."

Thus, I believe a good chunk of Bryce's arc in CC3 will be about unlocking this power. And when she does... she will have access to the power of House of Many Waters (the highlighted quotes above emphasise this).

There's even a section of Bryce's ascent (during the Drop) where she thrusts upwards with a "mighty tail." I believe this is a mermaid tail.

"Her power shifted, dancing between forms and gifts. She thrust upward with a push of a mighty tail. Twisted and rose with a sweep of vast wings. She was all things—and yet herself."

And to tie the 'Little Mermaid = Bryce x Az' connections together even further; what's the likely title of the next Crescent City book?

House of Many Waters.

(And as a bonus fun fact: recall that the items on SJM's desk seemingly hint to the inspiration behind HOFAS? Zoom in and you'll see a Little Mermaid cup...).

Hades and Persephone too!

If you scroll back up to the Pinterest photo SJM saved as Mor and Az and reverse-image search it, you'll discover that it's actually an image of Hades and Persephone.

(So no, Feyre and Rhys weren't the only couple inspired by Hades and Persephone).

Similarly, the above Little Mermaid inspired photo that SJM saved (top left)? Also of Hades and Persephone.

The story of Persephone is that of a woman who once lived on Earth and was taken to the underworld. There, she eventually fell in love with Hades, the ruler of the underworld.

[Hades and Persephone art by oblivionsdream; it's giving Bryce and Az...]

Similarly, the final chapters of CC2 detailed Bryce's decision to use the Horn, and travel to Hel; the underworld. In doing so, she was taken to Azriel; someone who is heavily theorised to be a Prince of Hel (or connected to Hel, at the very least). As evidence of this:

The Princes of Hel are repeatedly connected to the cold. For example, when Apollion reaches out to touch Bryce, it's said that his touch was like "ice so cold it ached."

"[Apollion] reached out a hand, and Bryce flinched as it touched her. Truly touched her, ice so cold it ached."

Then Feyre touches Azriel for the first time, it's said that his skin was like "pure ice." (The similarities are uncanny!).

"But my attention drifted to Azriel, who took my still-offered hand and rose. The scars were rough against my fingers, but his skin was like ice. Pure ice."

However, this isn't the only instance. Instead, Azriel is repeatedly and consistently linked to being cold/icy/frozen. For example:

"I took Azriel’s hand, and his rough fingers squeezed mine. His skin was as cold as his face."

"There was an icy rage in Azriel I had never been able to thaw."

"Azriel’s dark breeze was different from Rhys’s. Colder. Sharper

"Azriel tucked in his wings and left without another word, stalking through the house and onto the front lawn to sit in the frigid starlight. To let the frost in his veins match the air around him."

We also know that Azriel is "different," and that even Rhys has "no explanation" for Azriel's shadowsinger abilities.

"Az is different. In a lot of ways." His tone didn't invite further questioning.

"Though the cobalt Siphons were proof that his Illyrian heritage ran true, even the rich lore of that warrior-people, my warrior-people, did not have an explanation for where the shadowsinger gifts came from."

Thus, if Azriel is indeed connected to Hel (a storyline far more prevalent in the Crescent City series than the ACOTAR series, by the way), then one could logically assume that his mate will also be someone connected to Hel.

Who do Hel's armies strike for? Bryce.

“Hel’s armies shall strike at your command, Bryce Quinlan.”

Who has Aidas (the 5th Prince of Hel) been watching over? Bryce.

"The cat’s whiskers twitched. I told you. Come find me. Her eyelids drooped—a final descent toward sleep. Why? The cat angled its head. So we can finish this."

Who is Apollion's (the 7th Prince of Hel) "greatest opponent?" Bryce.

I also find it interesting that when they meet, Apollion refers to Bryce as "Princess," and Bryce refers to Apollion as "Prince." I understand that Bryce is the Princess of the Valbaran fae, but the way they spoke in this scene felt more like Apollion and Bryce were on equal footing...

“Princess.” The voice was like Hel embodied: dark and icy and smooth.” “Prince.” Her voice shook.”

Many people in the fandom have been theorising that Prythian (and the broader ACOTAR world) is a layer of Hel. Could it be a missing 8th layer?

And if so, if Bryce and Azriel are set to rule Prythian (as High Queen and High King, as per this theory), wouldn't this make them both also Princess and Prince of the 8th layer of Hel? Ruling from the Dusk Court... the 8th court? Signified by an 8-pointed star?

(This is ultimately why I ship Bryce and Azriel: their epic story potential is unlike anything we've seen before).

As further proof of this, recall the connections between Bryce and Theia (with many believing that Bryce is a reincarnation of Theia). Although Theia's backstory is still shrouded in mystery, at present we can deduce that:

Theia lived in Prythian, and had two daughters with an unknown man.

She then travelled to another world; Midgard (unwillingly), and allied with the Princes of Hel.

She was then said to have a relationship with Aidas, a Prince of Hel (as she was said to be Aidas's "great love").

(Fun fact: Aidas is another name for Hades).

Compare to Bryce:

Bryce lives in Midgard, and is currently with Hunt.

She then travels to another world; Prythian (unwillingly), in search of the Princes of Hel.

As per this theory, she will have a relationship with Azriel, a (theorised) Prince of Hel.

History is repeating. Rigelus even notes the similarities himself:

"Rigelus sighed dramatically at their stunned silence. “This all seems very familiar, doesn’t it? A Starborn queen who allied with a Prince of Hel."

Twilight of the Gods: SJM's multiverse series?

"But Bryce won't forget about Hunt!"

"She's not going to skip off into the sunset with Azriel in just one book! All of this is too much!"

I agree. I don't believe any huge shipping revelations will be made in CC3.

Instead, things will be much more tame to begin with. Perhaps Az will be the one to guide Bryce around Prythian (and they'll figure out their matching weapons, and the origins of the Dusk Court - both together, and alongside other pivotal ACOTAR characters). I believe Bryce and Az will develop a friendship, and that will be all (sort of like Aelin and Rowan, and their dynamic in Heir of Fire).

(That's not to diminish the significance of their interactions, though. If this theory is correct, then Bryce's POV may be the first to include Azriel at the forefront - no other character within the Azriel ship wars has had this opportunity yet).

Then, if Bryce and Azriel are indeed true mates and endgame, then I think that will be explored further down the line in what I predict will be SJM's multiverse series; Twilight of the Gods (which, as per the latest SJM publishing news, seems to be looking veryyyy likely; more information here).

"Twilight" is also another name for DUSK. Given everything I have already discussed, I am sure you can see how I believe that Bryce and Azriel's story (if they are indeed endgame) will be explored in this series - Twilight of the Gods (if it does indeed come to fruition).

Interestingly, both the Crescent City and Twilight of the Gods Pinterest boards are full of Sailor Moon imagery, and it appears as if Bryce (and her powers) have also been modelled after Sailor Moon herself. Knowing this, this image (which was also found in the Twilight of the Gods Pinterest board) is particularly interesting...

The sword? The multiverse-esque aesthetic?

This is fundamentally what the Bryce x Azriel ship comes down to: the promise and intrigue of a multiversal romance.

And don't you think SJM has considered this too? I find it hard to believe that SJM (the queen of fantasy romance) spent 5+ years planning out a crossover between her worlds, and didn't once stop to think about the possibility of a multiversal romantic pairing.

I mean, even back in 2015 SJM admitted to thinking about "crossover fanfic" with her own characters...

Moderator: "So, speaking of fandoms, different fandoms, um obviously you have ACOTAR, which is different from the TOG series. If both worlds could collide, which two characters would get on really well?"

SJM: <giggling>

Moderator: "Get on really well, not get it on really well" (laughs).

SJM: (laughs) "In my head I already have like, crossover fanfic (laughs). Like, is it fanfic if I'm writing it, or is it ultimate universe, canon things?

So, knowing all of this... why pair Bryce and Azriel together?

Most people in the fandom agree that Bryce and Azriel are connected in some way. I'm hoping that this post has made clear this connection even further.

But here's the thing: if we can all agree that Bryce and Azriel are connected, then why? What's the reason? And why not connect Bryce with other characters instead? Why Azriel specifically?

The two explanations I have heard are:

"Bryce and Azriel are cousins/related."

We already have the Ruhn and Rhys reveal, so why add another? I also don't see how Azriel could be related to Ember Quinlan or the Autumn King... (I also feel like Bryce's descriptions of Azriel's "tall, muscled body" and "gentle but thorough hands" is a lil weird for cousins...)

"Bryce and Azriel will be just friends."

Whilst I don't deny the likelihood of this, I also think that Bryce has the potential to become close friends with Nesta, Rhys, Feyre, Mor, Cassian (and many of the other characters). "Just friends" still wouldn't explain why SJM chose Azriel over everyone else (for example; why not make the prophecy around the Horn in Bryce's back and the remaining 3 Dread Trove items that Nesta can wield...?)

Instead, whenever there has been this much build-up or this much foreshadowing of a pairing... it's usually a sign that they are something special. Something more akin to mates - endgame.

[art by m_bohnet]

After all, consider things from Azriel's POV.

Sure, he has been busy with Mor and Elain and Gwyn (as people often tell me in response to this theory), but what happens when a beautiful woman from another world shows up, carrying the matching sword to his most prized knife? What happens when these weapons start glowing for one another in unison?

Don't you think Azriel would think something of this?

And, don't you think that if Elain or Gwyn had a sword that was the matching half to Azriel's knife (and a significant prophecy to boot!), it would be used as irrefutable evidence that their ship is endgame...?

But what about Hunt?

It's an opinion that earns me no favours in the fandom; but despite liking Hunt, I have always been sceptical about his relationship with Bryce (and am not yet convinced that they'll be endgame). This scepticism predates CC2 (and isn't just a feeling I conjured up in the hope that Bryce x Az will be endgame, as certain people assume).

For starters, both the Asteri and Apollion need Hunt and Bryce together to operate the Horn, and this is concerning.

To put it simply, Hunt was bred (for reasons we still don't yet know). However, as a result of Hunt's breeding, he possesses power that works with the Horn. In fact, CC2 makes clear that Hunt's lightning is the best source of power to "charge up" Bryce (and more specifically, the Horn).

“Your teleporting works when your power gets charged up by energy—considering what I heard about how quickly you ran out of steam with Hypaxia, Hunt’s is the best form of it.”

Bryce has the Horn in her back.

“Don’t think for one moment that Aidas and the Prince of the Pit have forgotten the Horn in your back. That Thanatos didn’t have it in mind when you spoke to him.”

To explain it in simple math terms:

Bryce + Hunt = fully operational Horn (they are like lock + key).

Apollion + Rigelus = both really want the Horn.

Apollion + Rigelus NEED Bryce + Hunt if they want a fully operational Horn.

In fact, we see Apollion egging Bryce and Hunt on to explore their powers more, and Rigelus fully admits to luring Bryce and Hunt to the Asteri palace at the end of CC2.

"Hunt’s blood iced over. “That was why you lured us here?” he found himself demanding of the Asteri, even as he roared with outrage at Bryce’s offer. Rigelus said, “I couldn’t very well snatch you off the streets. Not such notorious, public figures."

What's more, Bryce killed Micah, and Hunt killed Sandriel. The Asteri have punished (and killed) civilians for far less than that, but not only do the Asteri keep Bryce and Hunt alive, but they actively encourage their relationship together (and no one really questions that...).

"We also trust that this favor will serve as a reminder for you and Hunt Athalar. It is our deepest wish that you remain in the city, and live out your days in peace and contentment." "Fear gleamed in Hunt’s eyes. In her own, too, Bryce was sure. Nothing was ever this easy—this simple. There had to be a catch."

I just can't help but think of Maeve. She used her power to manipulate fate, leading Rowan to believe that Lyria was his mate instead of Aelin (for her own selfish gain).

Could it be possible that the Asteri, just like Maeve, have been... meddling with mating bonds for their own agenda - to use Bryce and Hunt for the Horn?

(Recall that in her latest interview, when asked if Bryce and Hunt's mating bond was the same as Feyre and Rhys's, SJM said "pass").

This leads to my second point.

The mating bond is a little strange between Bryce and Hunt.

I know this is a contentious subject, but there are enough people in the fandom who have stated a similar opinion for it to warrant suspicion. No one ever questions Rhys and Feyre's mating bond, nor Nesta or Cassian's, nor Aelin and Rowan's. But many don't buy Bryce and Hunt's mating bond.

In part, this is likely due to the nature of how it was initiated; after only knowing each other for 5 months, Hunt suggested calling each other mates because they couldn't find another term that fits. It happened randomly, and Bryce seemed to come up with a million different excuses initially; it just felt lacklustre in comparison to other mating bond reveals.

(That's not to invalidate Bryce and Hunt's clear affection for each other though - mating bond or not, their love for one another is more than evident).

“I thought that’s what this thing between us is.” “We’ve known each other for, like, five months.” “So?” “My mom will throw a fit. She’ll say we should date for at least two years before calling ourselves mates.”

But for me personally, it comes down to Bryce and Hunt's power (and the Horn). Again, using Throne of Glass as an example, when Maeve messed with Rowan's mating bond, she admitted that she didn't suspect Rowan and Aelin were mates once they met, because their carranam bond (which involves the sharing of power, as Bryce and Hunt do...) was masking the mating bond.

"I’ll admit I did not anticipate it. That I had broken Rowan Whitethorn so thoroughly that he did not recognize his own mate—that you were so broken by your own pain you didn’t notice, either. And when the signs appeared, the carranam bond washed away any suspicion on his part that you might be his."

Instead, the only indication that Aelin and Rowan were mates, was that they could feel each other's pain.

"Maeve ignored her. “Well? When did you know?” “At Temis’s temple,” Aelin admitted, glancing to Manon. “The moment the arrow went through his shoulder. Months ago.”

This is objectively absent in Bryce and Hunt. Not only that, but in the Bone Quarter, Bryce seems to question the validity of the mating bond herself:

"Hunt's lightning had stopped. Where was he? Would a mate know, would a mate feel-"

Which again, you have to wonder; if SJM is trying to sell Bryce x Hunt as endgame to her readers, why include this?

Further, even if Bryce and Hunt are mates, we don't yet know how this works across worlds. Given that the Cauldron (supposedly) assigns mating bonds in Prythian, and Bryce's "true world" is also Prythian, does Bryce have an additional Cauldron-assigned mating bond in that world too...?

Maybe that aligns with this tweet from SJM:

The Oracle.

In CC1, Hunt visits the Oracle, and she tells him to "keep well away from Bryce Quinlan."

"Do yourself a favour, Orion Athalar, and keep well away from Bryce Quinlan."

The Oracle could presumably see into Hunt's future, and could see whether he and Bryce live happily ever after. If this was the case, and the Oracle could indeed see such a happy outcome, then why would the Oracle say such a thing...? Why warn Hunt like that?

Similarly in CC1, Aidas reveals to Bryce that although the Oracle was blinded during her visit all those years ago... he wasn't. Aidas was there too, and he saw Bryce's future.

"Aidas had nearly vanished into nothing when he added, the words a ghost slithering through the room, "The Oracle did not see. But I did."

Yet in that exact same scene, Aidas turns to Hunt and has no idea who he is, asking "who are you?"

Hunt kept perfectly still as Aidas studied her. Then his eyes registered Hunt. He blinked—once. As if he had not really marked his presence until this moment. As if he hadn’t cared to notice, with Bryce before him. Hunt tucked away that fact, just as Aidas murmured, “Who are you.”

Thus, if Aidas has seen Bryce's future, and Bryce and Hunt are indeed endgame (and he is in her future)... then why didn't Aidas recognise Hunt?

Hunt's future.

If this theory is correct, and given that we have two beings with foresight (the Oracle and Aidas) hinting at Bryce and Hunt's ominous future... then what could possibly happen to Hunt

Theory 1) Hunt may die.

This theory has been around even since the HOEAB days, and is well-known by most (so I won't expand on it too much). However, the basic premise of it boils down to Hunt's birth name, Orion, and Orion being famously killed (often by his lover) in mythology. Perhaps this also explains the Oracle's warning to him.

Recall also the quote repeated again and again (often by Hunt);

"Memento Mori. Remember that you will die. They now seemed more of a promise than the mild reminder from the Meat Market."

Similarly, knowing what happened to Sam in Throne of Glass, I find this parallel to Bryce and Hunt a little uncanny (and is exactly what we mean when we talk about death flags...).

[Sam and Aelin]: "I can wait," he said thickly, kissing her collarbone. "We have all the time in the world." Maybe he was right. And spending all the time in the world with Sam ... that was a treasure worth paying anything for."

[Bryce and Hunt]: "Assuming I live through it, you mean." "Assuming you live through taking on the Archangels and Asteri, what then?" "I don't know." He gave her a half smile. "Maybe you and I can figure it out, Quinlan. We'll have centuries to do it."

2. Hunt may become an Asteri weapon; an (unwilling) villain.

In fact, it has recently been theorised (such as in this post here) that Hunt may already have acted as an Asteri weapon in the past, and may have even had a part to play in Danika's death. As unbelievable as this may sound, consider these two quotes.

In HOEAB, Hunt remarks that his victims always said the same words; "please."

“Please.” It was always the same word. The only word people tended to say when the Umbra Mortis stood before them.

Then, this is the only audio we hear of Danika right before she dies:

"And then someone was roaring—a feral wolf’s roar. “Please, please—” The words were cut off. But the hall camera’s audio wasn’t."

To that people would say "Hunt would never!" And rightly so. However, consider that:

Hunt didn't know Bryce when this occurred.

Hunt was already tasked with killing one of Bryce's friends; Fury. Twice. The only reason it didn't happen was because someone higher up halted the orders.

"Micah had even ordered Hunt to kill her. Twice. But she had too many high-powered allies. Some, it was whispered, on the Imperial Senate. So both times, Micah had decided that the fallout over the Umbra Mortis turning Fury Axtar into veritable toast would be more trouble than it was worth."

However, regardless of whether this theory is true or not (as sure, perhaps the wording could be coincidence), one cannot deny the connection between the names of Hunt (Orion) and the Asteri; all named after stars and/or constellations.

In fact, Sirius (the 7th Asteri), is known as Orion's hunting dog in mythology.

And Rigel (as in Rigelus), is the brightest star in the Orion constellation.

Consider also Rigelus's words to Hunt; "I thought we were friends, Orion," and something just seems... off.

(Though, I'd be happy to be proven wrong, as Hunt is one of my favourite SJM males. Just because I think an awful thing could happen, doesn't mean I want it to happen).

What about Gwynriel/Elriel?

Another topic that I won't touch on in too much depth, as I'm sure that most people are already familiar with the points for and against these ships.

The only thing I will say is that things change. What ships appear to be canon or strongly foreshadowed in one book can totally change in the next. SJM has said as much herself (as outlined in the FAQ section on her personal website):

"Will [my favourite couple] be endgame?" "No spoilers! In all seriousness, while I do have ideas for all my currently contracted books, I would never guarantee any plot points or pairings until each book is written. I've been surprised by where characters have taken me before!"

But we also know this is true based on the Throne of Glass ship wars that raged on back in the day. If we were to time-travel back to 2012 and 2013 (when the first two TOG books were released), we'd see people arguing as to whether Aelin (Celeana) would end up with Chaol or Dorian. There was no third option.

And then in the third book, Rowan was introduced. But even then people denied the possibility of his romance with Aelin, instead siding with Chaol, with arguments such as:

"Rowan already has a mate!"

"Rowan and Aelin are probably just related and nothing more!"

"Rowan and Aelin are from two different kingdoms, it would never work. Chaol is back home in Rifthold waiting for her!"

(Sound familiar...?)

It was also argued that Chaol and Aelin would be endgame instead, given the mate-adjacent language that was used between them:

"Far inside of her, she found a golden chain that bound them together."

"The rest of the world quieted... she looked at him and realised she was home."

"She knew his every move and he knew hers, as though they'd been dancing this waltz together all their lives."

"It somehow felt as if it had always been Chaol, even from the beginning, even before they'd ever met."

But nope -- in the third book, Aelin stumbled into a foreign land and came face to face with Rowan; her true, fated mate.

In fact, this speaks to a certain SJM pattern I have noticed:

Aelin is forced to leave Rifthold for Wendlyn (oh no!)... but then she meets Rowan.

Chaol and Nesryn are forced to leave Rifthold for the Southern Continent (oh no!)... but then they meet Yrene and Sartaq.

Feyre is forced to leave the Spring Court for the Night Court (oh no!)... but then she meets Rhys.

Nesta is forced to leave the human lands for the faerie lands (oh no!)... but then she meets Cassian.

Now, Bryce has been forced to leave Midgard for Prythian (oh no!)... and she falls right in front of Azriel. He "gently" blindfolds her, grabs her hand, chucks her over his shoulder, and their matching weapons start glowing "in answer" to each other... and this is supposedly just a crackship?

And I get it; there's already Bryce and Hunt. And Azriel and Gwyn. And Azriel and Elain. However, I do think it's interesting that at present, the two biggest debates within the fandom are:

Are Bryce and Hunt truly mates/endgame?

Will Gwynriel or Elriel be endgame?

If any of these ships were a slam-dunk guarantee... these debates just simply wouldn't exist. Point is, with SJM (and especially with the multiverse opening up)... the possibilities are endless.

And, the promise of Bryce and Azriel is just one of these possibilities, but it's my favourite one of all.

After all, stars cannot shine without darkness.

(P.S. Some of these points were first identified by my friends - so credit and a huge thank you to them! ❤️)

#acotar #crescent city #bryce quinlan #azriel acotar #sjm multiverse #sjm theory #sjm crossover #bryce x azriel #bryceriel

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sjmgirlie · 19 hours

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You will never be able to convince me that ACOSF was a good book. Let me explain.

1) It was a literal homicide for all the characters. Every. Single. One. I’m not sure if it’s because it’s from Nesta’s pov or what, but seriously, every single character basically became unlikeable? Rhys? Feyre (to an extent)? Cassian? Mor? Amren? Did Nesta really get much better?? Like no one was really likeable. Maybe Az being the only sane one. Elain showed some teeth which I liked but it still wasn’t the best.

2) Where was the plot? You’re telling me she only found troves and then killed one mortal/made queen? Before you argue, the fact we find out about Nesta’s literal powers in another series says a lot. Why didn’t we find out Nesta had silver flame power (WHICH IS THE NAME OF THE BOOK) in said book??????? Make it make sense. This book didn’t move the plot at all. Other than having the troves now. And killing the one crazy queen. The amount of times we were on the stairs was not needed. Nesta is a massive part of this universe, and yes, she can wield the troves. But everyone who is made can. So like what else could she have done? Something more im sure. I mean that’s why I think she was in HOFAS in the first place. To “conquer” the prison, get gwydion as her return of service, and show her powers. I get that the whole starborn thing needed to happen in HOFAS with Bryce but honestly Nesta needed more. And that’s another reason why people think she’s going to get another book, because what even happened in her book????

3) Nessian. Now here me out. Do we like smut? Yes. Do we like it when there’s actual romance involved? Yes. Did we truly get that? No. It’s been a while since I read this book because I just have no desire for a re-read. I’m sorry. But going from “my only regret in this life is that we did not have time. That I did not have time with you Nesta. I will find you in the next life” (ya I basically memorized it because I was kicking my feet at him saying that) to “I didn’t ask to be shackled to you either” after Nesta, a human turned fae, didn’t care about being called a mate? Like? Absolute homicide to Cassian’s character. Was the hike nice? No. Did he say nice things after she passed out? Yes. But like? I just think they deserved a better romance. And I just literally didn’t even know who I was reading when Cassian was involved. The guy that would crack jokes and just was loving? All of a sudden a mean person? To Nesta too? Like idk. It rubbed me the wrong way. They deserved better. The fact people actually want Eris and Nesta means it CLEARLY did not stick. Which means it was not convincing. No one says this about Feysand. They could have been FIREWORKS. But at times it genuinely didn’t feel like Cassian even liked her??? Where was the golden retriever energy? It was like the guy was on steroids the whole time and just blowing a fuse constantly. That was NOT the Cassian I remembered from ACOWAR. I mean idk maybe it was the fact the reluctant mate trope was just too difficult? The fact it started physically wasn’t my favourite either. Then it was so focused on that that it was like okay were are those romantic moments. “You’re not going to marry Eris” “no” “we will have no others” like that was romantic. Then the shackle thing literally happened the next day. Wtf.

4) Did I relate to Nesta’s issues and healing journey? A bit. But I just found it aggravating at times. I felt there was huge potential to dive into what it is to be the oldest sister. More into alot of things tbh. Her holding the line on Ramiel was a great moment, because she could finally protect people she cared about, but I wish that would have been implied more? Her journey seemed like a huge self insert and idk. It wasn’t as amazing as it could have been.

5) Nesta’s redemption? I don’t even like that word. I wanted people to begin to UNDERSTAND Nesta more. Not just be thankful she saved Feyre/Rhys/Nyx. Like a genuine understanding. Does Cassian? Ya I guess. Elain? It’s said she knew everything Nesta did and why. So yes she did. Az? Ya. He was literally the only one who wasn’t an asshole to her at any point lol. And I wouldn’t consider Elain and asshole to her either because she did just stand up for herself finally. Like imagine the comments you’d hear having Nesta as a sister (for real). But did anyone leave understanding Nesta, understanding why she was snarky and rude? No. Idk if that’s the point to create a divide or what. But seriously. I get Nesta to some degree now. Why did the characters not.

6) Nesta gaining friends was nice and I see why people cling to the Valkyrie. That was literally probably the best part of the book. And that’s saying something about the way the romantic pair was executed might I add. We weren’t obsessed with Feyre and Mor and Amren being friends. We were obsessed with Feysand. But the most you hear from ACOSF is about the Valkyrie.

7) Again. I never truly hated Nesta, but I didn’t necessarily love her after this either. I understood the character more, I saw her own dark thoughts, I saw how she felt, and I understood. But was she my favourite? No. I think her appearance in HOFAS, other than showing her powers (????), was to make Nesta more likeable. Because a lot of people still don’t like her. Like I said, I am PRO ARCHERON FOREVER, but I wanted more for Nesta. I wanted a lot for the girl.

8) The dreaded bonus chapter. I’ve said my opinion on this multiple times. Idk. It’s just hate for Elain that drives it tbh. It’s literally a copy and paste of the Nessian one from ACOMAF basically that if you put it in a plagiarism generator it would probably not pass. YET, it has literally desecrated the fandom. Completely. You literally can’t go anywhere without some ship war happening. And ya, I feed into it too being super pro Elriel because I love them. But damn. Imagine if this energy was put into, idk, theories of the plot? We would have figured out the Maas universe by now tbh. I wish it didn’t exist everyday. And to a lot of people it doesn’t, and I envy them. Life was simpler before the “did you read the bonus chapter” fiasco. And tbh I’m pretty sad that SJM hasn’t said a word about it. Or her publisher because it gets way out of line way too often. The actual love triangle has always been set up as Lucien/Elain/Az, and somehow we left the BC with a square??? Idek.

Overall, it just did not do Nesta or Cassian justice in my mind. It created way too many head canons, it made Cassian unlikeable in a lot of ways (why are you calling Mor beautiful?) and it just seriously destroyed a lot of characters.

I’m really hoping in Elain’s book we, idk, make amends finally? If I have to see another toe to toe battle between Nesta and Rhys I’m going to be sick. They are both right in ways, but I just can’t take it anymore. And this is what I mean about Nesta’s story not being one of UNDERSTANDING. Which is what she NEEDED. TO BE UNDERSTOOD. The rudeness, snarky comments, death glares etc just needed to be understood man.

#elain #elain x azriel #acotar series #pro nesta #pro archeron sisters #pro feysand #pro nessian #but they deserved better #pro elriel #sjm please put us out of our misery #give us the next book #make nessian great again #stop the ship wars

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kopfkino-o · 2 months

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The Seer's Stone - Chapter 6 (Az POV)

Summary: Azriel is being pushed to his limits, driven half-mad by his increased workload, Koschei’s recent movements, and the unaddressed feelings still hanging between him and Elain. His mind is at war with himself, thoughts and regrets constantly battling with him, but when an old acquaintance comes calling he feels compelled to answer, bound by loyalty and duty he sets off to find what very well might be his own damnation.

Pairing: Elain x Azriel

Timeline: Post-ACOSF

Wordcount: 1970

Read:

Chapter One | The Crone’s Trade

Chapter Two | The Oracle of Seraphyros

Chapter Three | Last of Our Kind (Azriel)

Chapter Four | An Empty Seat

Chapter Five | Death and the Lovely Fawn - UPDATED

Author’s Note: Hope you all enjoy! More below 💋

PHEW! After several months of insanity (see: moving to a new city, taking on several new projects at my day job as a graphic designer, getting engaged, traveling to Europe to be in a friend's wedding, hurting my knee again (rip lmao), and the general chaos of being alive) I am so excited to be back writing again. And even more excited to share this latest chapter of the Seer's Stone with the world.

Writing took a back seat within my life last year, due impart to the aforementioned chaos, but also due to some personal anxieties I had about sharing my work. It's irrational, I know, writing is writing, art is art! But still, I found myself lacking confidence and facing a ton of writer's block, but I found some new inspiration through my professional creative work, had a few friends that really helped to cheer me on, and had a lot of downtime after my knee surgery to think about and play around with my craft. All that being said, I'm really really glad to be back at it and revisiting this story, and learning through writing fanfiction.

My plans for the fic haven't changed (too much), but I do think I ought to note that I made some edits to the last update, Chapter Five | Death and the Lovely Fawn, that I feel like I just needed to make to provide clarity/build up for the direction of the story.

Lastly, I just wanted to say thank you to the folks who reached to me about this fic even when I wasn't actively updating it and offered me support/encouragement. This meant so so much to me, more than you all probably know, and I just wanted to say thanks for that.

This one's for you guys.

xoxo, Court

There was a building headache in Azriel's temples.

Every beat of his heart reverberated through his skull like a war drum. Azriel worked his jaw, grinding his teeth. There had always been something about the dank darkness of the Hewn City that pressed down on him like a fist, but the hateful place was particularly grating tonight.

Wrong, his shadows murmured, this place is wrong

"Hush," he snapped back at them, in no mood for their whisperings.

The floor shifted underfoot, and the long, stone passageway changed before his eyes, writhing as if it were a living thing. To anyone else, the illusion might have been nauseating, but these tunnels and their strange enchantments had become second nature to him during the time he served beneath Rhysand's father.

The old High Lord had personally keyed the spells into the oily stone walls to prevent his captives from ever learning the true layout of the tunnel system. And, perhaps, to also remind them they were so far beneath the earth they could only dream of feeling the warmth of the sun on their faces again.

He had been cruel like that.

Azriel rounded a bend in the stone and found himself in another long hallway carved directly into the mountain. Only this hallway was lined with ancient, half-rusted cell doors—cells that housed the worst of the Night Court's filth. Or at least, what was left of them.

Halfway down the corridor, Feyre and Amren were waiting for him outside one of those cells, the High Lady and her second-in-command half-concealed in shadow, their whispered voices echoing queerly off the rock walls.

Both females fell silent when they caught sight of him. Something twisted in Azriel’s gut. For them both to be here, in the dead of the night, with Nyx still so young and Varian here in Velaris on a short respite from Adriata, meant something was wrong. The look on Feyre’s beautiful face only confirmed that. Something was very, very wrong.

“You’re late,” Amren snapped. It was as much a greeting as he’d get from her.

Azriel matched the second’s same cool indifference. “I was in the middle of something when you sent for me. I came as soon as I could.”

“Off again, doing only the Mother knows what? You don’t fool me, boy. I can smell the Continent on you.”

“I come, I go. So is the nature of my work.”

“Is it, now?”

“If you intend to suggest I’m up to something you disapprove of, then by all means, Amren, do so now and let us be done with it. I’m not here to indulge in idle banter.”

The second-in-command bared her teeth, smoke-gray eyes glowing like two torches amidst the gloom, and for half a heartbeat, Azriel thought she might press the matter.

Then Feyre stepped forward and cleared her throat. There were dark smudges of exhaustion beneath the High Lady’s eyes, but she still looked as regal as ever in her Illyrian leathers, her carved ashwood bow and a matching quiver of arrows peeking up over her armored shoulders.

“Enough, you two,” Feyre said, voice laced with nothing but command. She shot both Azriel and Amren a warning look before folding her tattooed hands behind her back, taking up the position of authority fitting of both a war commander and a queen. “We have bigger matters at hand, and I didn’t leave my infant son asleep at home with a nanny just to come here and listen to you bicker.” She nudged Amren with an armored elbow. “So, won't you be a dear and update our lovely Spymaster on the situation at hand?”

Amren shot him one last distrustful look before answering their High Lady's command. "We picked up two...stragglers...trying to make their way to the Prison Isle. From what we've been able to gather, it appears they were attempting to make their way inside the Prison itself."

Azriel's brows rose. Sneak onto the Prison Isle? That was not only impossible, but it was complete and utter madness. A sick, sudden realization shuddered through him, so fierce it cut through the pounding in his head.

Elain.

Elain was trying to get access to the Prison for reasons still unknown to him. Her and the spellspinner she'd tried so diligently to keep hidden in the Library.

Azriel's shadows had brought him word of their machinations weeks ago, initially tipped off by the arrival of the young spellspinner, and catching Elain in his bedroom yesterday had only confirmed his suspicions, but surely she hadn't gone against his warnings. Surely she hadn't...

"Something wrong, boy?" Amren crooned.

He ignored her. "Tell me everything," he said to Feyre.

"One male, one female. Both don't seem to hold any particular court alliance, but they were...dressed strangely. Almost as if they were trying to blend in with the Library's priestesses. Only their robes were gray, not white, and they carried no invoking stones." Feyre scrubbed a hand down her face. "Rhys caught the male on the beaches; I found the female still on the boat they'd used to reach the Isle."

Azriel might have sighed his relief if only Feyre's words weren't too much to stomach. Elain and her friends, and whatever wild plan they'd concocted, might be safe for now, but an unwelcome stranger trying to land on the Prison Isle was nothing to take lightly. And the fact Azriel, nor his shadows, had seen it coming rankled him.

"I tried to talk to her, wanted to know who she was, why she was there," the High Lady continued. "But she pulled a knife before I could get to her. I watched her open her own throat. Tried to heal her, but to no avail, little thanks to the poison on her blade." Feyre shook her head then tossed a thumb towards the cell door. "Rhys is inside with the male. He won't speak, though. He just keeps... singing."

"Singing?" Azriel echoed.

"He means to mock us," Amren murmured.

It was Feyre who ignored the second-in-command now. The High Lady tipped her head towards the cell door. "You'll see." She said. "We'll be waiting at the Riverhouse for your report."

And with that, Feyre reached a hand for Amren and winnowed them both away, leaving Azriel alone with his pounding head, the ancient black stone, and the iron door looming before him.

Azriel drew in a breath. Down, down, down he sank into himself before he strode for the cell door and shoved it open.

The sharp smell of blood and piss and fear arrested his senses as soon as he stepped into the dimly lit cell.

Old memories reared their ugly heads, taking him back to a different time where he came to these very cells to serve a far different lord. Truth-Teller warmed at his side, steadying him. Azriel wrapped a hand around the dagger's familiar hilt and shoved the memories back inside their iron cages to rot.

He made a quick sweep of the room when his eyes finally adjusted. Shadows clung to the corners of the narrow cell, dark enough to conceal his brother's powerful form hidden within them. Rhys was the darkness here. Anyone else might have missed him, but Azriel knew his brother's scent, the sound of his breathing, and marked where he stood in one of the shadowy corners.

In the center of the cell, bound and blindfolded, sat the captive. His gray robes were bloody, his lip split and broken, but he was singing just as Feyre had promised. Singing some horrible old song.

"...blue blood, red blood, blood black as a moonless night," the captive's voice echoed off the cell walls, garbled and made watery by his mouthful of broken teeth. "A pound of flesh, a pound of bone, a gift for a maiden made of light..."

Azriel's shadows swarmed. They flowed across the old stone floors to circle the captive like a pack of hungry dogs, writhing and twisting as they tried to make sense of him and his strange song. Almost as if the song had offended them. As if it scared them.

The darkness melted, and Rhys appeared from within it, arms crossed and brow furrowed, the mask of the High Lord in perfect place. Stars were dancing in his violet eyes, cold and unyielding, burning with a hunger Azriel himself knew all too well.

"He's been at it all night," Rhys said softly. "The same two verses of the same song, over and over again. It's driving me fucking mad."

"You scramble his brains or something?" Azriel asked.

"Would that I could. His mind is impenetrable. Practically walled off with solid obsidian. I've never seen anything like it."

"He's been prepped on how to face a Daemati, then."

"Or spelled to keep one out of his mind."

The words rose a chill within him, and Azriel found himself watching his brother more closely. Rhys worked a tick in his jaw, violet eyes churning as he assessed the battered man babbling his strange song.

"...away, away, at the crown of midnight..."

Azriel had never heard the tune before. Yet, it rankled him somehow. Dragged cold talons through his guts as if it were trying to make a home there.

Pain pricked behind his eyes, blooming like a thousand burning stars.

Azriel rolled his shoulders, fighting the headache, and drew in a deep breath of the rank air, descending deeper into that inside, readying himself for what was to come.

"He'll break," he said softly.

Rhys did not look at him as he replied. "I know."

Eventually, they exchanged the briefest, most fleeting of looks, but the silent words that passed between them meant everything. Rhys's eyes reminded him that Azriel did not have to do this. That he was, in fact, not his father's son. That this Night Court was a court of dreamers, of sons who were forgiven of the sins of their fathers, of daughters free to live as they pleased.

But the weight of duty had been taught to Azriel decades ago. And it was not a lesson so easily forgotten.

Skin slips easier off the smaller bones, blood congeals at the joints, and the mind always, always fractures first.

The old High Lord had taught him those things. Had made sure Azriel knew them, committed them to his memory so he might never forget his purpose. His worth. The thing he'd been made for.

Azriel slid Truth-Teller from its sheath. "Leave us," he said to his brother, voice soft as night. "I'll bring my report to the Riverhouse."

Rhysand put a gentle hand on his shoulder, the gesture made as if it might spare him, as if it might change what he was and the things he was born to do.

It wouldn't.

Azriel had stopped telling himself such follies a long, long time ago.

So he waited until his brother closed the cell door behind him. Waited until his shadows drank the last bit of light from the dank cell. Waited and listened as the prisoner whimpered the last verses of his swan song.

"...a sword for the son, a horn for the Queen, and dagger for their fool..."

Once, when he was just a boy, the shadows had taught him there was a place he could go, somewhere he could hide from his father's wrath, from his brothers' hate. Somewhere deep within himself. A place where he felt nothing, saw nothing.

Was nothing.

Azriel went to that place now, hiding somewhere deep within himself. He thought of roses as he raised Truth-Teller to the pale flesh of the prisoner's chest and began to cut.

Blood bloomed and the ache in Azriel's head erupted like a thunderclap.

And a dagger for the fool.

#the seer's stone #elriel fanfiction #the seer's stone fanfic #elriel

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illyrian-dreamer · 1 year

Text

Changing Shadows (Part 5)

Azriel x Reader

Part 1

Part 2

Part 3

Part 4

The Inner Circle are reunited as everyone returns from their missions to Velaris.

You celebrate with a night of drinking at Rita’s, and drunkenly dare to do what it takes to make the Shadowsinger jealous.

Jealous and protective Azriel, semi-smut, Morrigan fluff

Image by koike9023

Warnings: Alcohol, semi-smut, mild violence

ACOSF spoilers ahead!

Word count: 1,253

Part 5:

∇

Feyre had sent word on behalf on her and Nesta that rehabilitation in the human lands were progressing well, and they should be home come Friday.

She had also scolded Rhys to not be so ‘overbearing and mother-hen like’ towards me, as she heard of what happened through their bond. She always took your side, even when you didn’t deserve it.

Mor and Amren had returned from their trip at Dawn Court, the later grumpier than usual as she sought out the privacy of her own apartment, and Mor waltzed in with a new gown and jewels coloured a dusty dawn pink, courtesy of a little shopping spree she told you.

“We missed you,” you said, swaying in her hug.

“Rita’s, Friday night,” she announced to everyone, pointing around the room as if she would punish you if you didn’t attend.

“Are you sure you’ll be done riding Varian by then, Amren?” Cassian teased before she could escape.

“Watch it boy,” she snarled. “We’ll be there,” she nodded to Mor, leaving without a goodbye.

“Excellent!” Mor clapped. She pulled your hands to her room, babbling about her recent trip. “I’m thinking I will wear my newest gown from Dawn. Oh, and you must see what I bought you, I’m hoping we can tailor it to fit your wings?”

You laughed, she spoiled you like a true Aunt.

Your eyes met Azriel’s as Mor pulled you along, your gaze locked as he stood still, shadows swirling as if hiding something. You hadn’t spoken much outside of pleasantries since the conversation on the terrace, but his eyes blazed in a way you couldn’t understand.

Mor shut her bedroom door, casting a quick sound glamour. She spun around immediately, eyes narrowing on you.

“What. Was. That?”

“Hmm?” you questioned, unaware she noticed anything.

“That stare! That look! Did something happen between you and Azriel?”

You blinked. “No? I mean yes-” Mor gasped. “No, not like that, it’s been weird, I-”

You couldn’t even finish your sentence before she squealed in delight. “Ugh, finally!”

“Finally?”

“Yes, finally, Y/N,” Mor tapped her foot, as if fed up with your naivety. “We all know Azriel is... particularly fond of you. And maybe you are of him?” she guessed bravely, moving your dark long hair off your shoulders.

“I... I’m not sure what he feels,” you admitted. “He’s mostly just...protective.”

“I have a theory,” she replied, fussing over her blond locks in her vanity mirror before turning to you again. “That is the only way Azriel feels safe to love someone.”

You chewed your cheek. It was a bold claim, but Mor knew Azriel in a different way to you.

“Ok,” she strode to her tall closet. “What pretty little thing will we dress you in on Friday?” she asked more to herself, dramatically flinging open the closet doors.

——

Friday came quickly, and spirits were high as the Inner Circle were united again.

Feyre had chosen a midnight blue gown, flowing with femininity around her baby bump. Mor wore her trademark red, while you wore a gown of pure pearl that gently glittered as it plunged down your to your midriff, the back of the dress practically non-existent. Revealing but exciting, and a gorgeous contrast for your dark hair, Mor explained. You looked in the mirror, she wasn’t wrong.

Rita’s was always a hoot, and before long each and every one of you were considerably drunk.

You looked around at your family, Rhys and Feyre had retired early so she could rest. Cassian teased Nesta in the corner of the booth, her spirits lifted by the music. Amren was sitting on Varian’s lap, arms draped across his neck with a glass of wine as she smiled in her feline way while he muttered something in her ear.

Azriel and you were engaged in a conversation, he let you go on and on about a book you had read on the history of Illiryian weaponry. Drunken words flowed from you as you spoke with passion, Azriel watching with a relaxed smile.

You cut off your long winded sentence, catching him. “What are you smiling at?” you pestered, nudging his knee with yours.

He pressed his lips and shook his head, but the smile remained.

“Shots!” Mor shouted, carrying a tray of deep green liquid to your booth. Someone groaned, someone clapped.

“They say this is stuff will make you spill all your secrets,” Mor said, holding her shot high and inspecting the liquid.

“Just like Truth Teller,” you winked towards Azriel, your family laughing.

The liquid warmed your blood, and Mor pulled you by the hands to come dance with her.

You reached back to Az, begging him to join you. He crossed his arms and shook his head, waving a sarcastic goodbye as Mor pulled on you.

Prick.

Laughing and spinning to the music, you fell into the rhythm with the other party-goers at Rita’s.

Particularly, a handsome blonde male.

He grabbed your hand and spun you round and round, you laughed in delight, intoxicated and free.

You could have sworn you felt the cold jealousy of Azriel’s shadows as he stared from the booth. Too bad, you thought, he should have joined you in the first place. A dark part of you enjoyed the fact that he was watching. You drunkenly decided to see how far you could go.

The male was quite charming, and continued to dance and flirt with you throughout the night. You whispered jokes in his ear, and flirted back with no shame. The male was in awe of you.

He suggested you get some fresh air, and you happily agreed, holding his hand as you snuck outside.

Leaning against the the wall of the building, you could feel the thump of the music from inside as you giggled at the male’s joke.

He rested his forearm above your head, leaning down and looking at you.

“Can I kiss you?” he asked.

You blinked up at him flirtatiously. “I don’t even know your name.”

“My name is Merino,” he replied, leaning in further and kissing your neck gently. “Can I kiss you now?”

“Yes,” you breathed, his own breath sending tingles throughout your body.

He grabbed your face, mouths colliding as you hooked your arms around his neck. Between all the comments and teasing with Az, you had built up a lot of tension.

A small moan escaped your lips as the blonde ground his body against yours, his hands trailing your back to your backside, pulling your cheeks to him.

The next thing you felt was a cold rush of air, and a surprised yell sounded from Merino as he was ripped off of you.

Azriel stood between you, his hands trembling.

“Azriel!” You exclaimed in shock, your fingers on your lips where Merino was seconds ago, his kiss lingering.

“Leave,” Azriel growled at the male, his back to you. You could barely see past his shadows which swarmed around him, his stance almost feral, ready to attack. Merino stared for a few seconds, then turned and fled, unprepared to fight the Shadowsinger. A wise choice.

“What in Mother’s name do you think you’re doing?” you fumed, words a bit slurred from the alcohol.

He turned and grabbed you arm without even looking at you. “It’s time to go.”

Sure enough, the group were readying to leave out the front of the bar.

You sulkily agreed, winnowing yourself back to the House of Wind, preparing for the fight you were about to have with Azriel.

--------

Part 6 >>>

AN: Thanks for the support so far <3 If you’d like to join the tag list, just comment or message me :)

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achaotichuman · 3 months

Note

It went right over my head when I read it before but it’s wild to think you were an IC fan before 🤯

Some of the awful years.

Y’all will flip at this, but here were my thoughts on the Acotar cast when I was fresh in the fandom.

Rhysand- Liked him, didn’t feel as bad for him as others did but I knocked that down to me just straight up not being attracted to him. I started hating him in Acosf tho. I hadn’t read Acosaf because I thought it a waste of time. But if I had seen those scenes before Silver flames then I would’ve probably hated him sooner.

Feyre- I thought she was really fucking annoying. Especially in her scenes with Nesta. Not much can be said for her because Feyre was more of a device to see through. But I would be the last to advocate for her. Obviously that has changed drastically.

Morrigan- Liar. First thing that comes to mind. She seemed like a white girl who peaked in highschool so I just didn’t like her.

Amren- She was my favourite character second to Nesta. Solely for the reason we now had a morally grey character that actually acted like an unapologetically bad person when she wanted to. This has severely changed. Also literally two lines into her introduction I was screaming Valg King. Amren is a Valg King no one can change my mind. That part hasn’t changed.

Cassian- I was a die hard Cassian fan. I loved this man. I swear to God I would have gone to war for him. I was also die hard nessian. Obviously that has also changed, for the better in my opinion.

Azriel- I cannot physically express how much I hated Azriel. He was quite literally my least favourite character, I wanted him dead. I was hoping every single page that he would be killed off. He was there for vibes and vibes only. Since Azris I am a changed man, but sometimes I just can’t stand him.

Nesta- My Queen. My Lady. My wife. My mirror. She made me feel seen and heard. I love this woman and I always will.

Elain- No opinions on her. I figured pretty quickly she would be a bigger factor later on but I had no opinions on her. I am very pro Elain now, but in canon I just don’t really trust SJM with her. Which is also why my only solid ship with her is Gywnlain. I am very anti Elriel, always was.

Lucien- My heart and soul. I was obsessed with this man. I wanted to wrap him up and hold him close. Still do.

Eris- I didn’t understand the hype in Acowar but come silver flames and I was diving deep into this man. Trying to undo every cryptic word. I developed a very deep love for him. One that has only grown.

Tamlin- Felt sorry for him, but overall I had no strong opinions. I really wanted Acotar back. In the first book I would have probably given up a kidney for him, then it went down slowly. In Acowar however I was defending this man left and right. By Acosf I wanted more Tamlin.

Then I started to deep dive into the characters and their arcs. This was before I joined Tumblr. And the more I read the more convinced I was that in the next book the IC was going to have a falling out because their dynamics made no sense to me. They looked like they were slowly breaking, and Rhysand was very shortly put on my anti list.

But I never made a big fuss about my thoughts because if I did I got attacked really fuckin quickly.

Then I joined Tumblr and found a great community where I could hate and be supported.

Love you guys to death. Thanks to all of you I get to be in my Pro Tamlin, anti IC world and I am so glad I get to be here.

Edit- I was also extremely closeted when I first read Acotar and that definitely had its affect on my opinions on some of the characters.

#anti ic #anti rhysand #pro tamlin #pro nesta archeron #acotar #critical feyre archeron #anti rhys

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theladyofbloodshed · 11 months

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The conversation in ACOSF about Rhys being the best option for High King (k!ll me pls) is so strange, because how are Cassian, Amren and Azriel not aware of how much everyone hates the Night Court? They’ve literally spent hundreds of years acting like pieces of shit yet they think the High Lords will just hand over the reigns (after 50 years under Amarantha, no less) and all the Fae in the courts will be oh so happy.

They stole from Tarquin and Feyre’s boss babe destruction of the Spring Court left the door open to Summer, Kallias and Beron openly hate Rhysand, Helion is friendly and will be until he realizes that his pals at the NC think so little of him, Thesan won’t do it either because the Dawn court is said to be neutral in conflicts (war means people die). Tamlin will probably off himself before he kneels and if Lucien is temporarily in charge, I doubt he’ll do it either. If Eris is High Lord by then, he’s definitely NOT kneeling. Man’s been waiting too long to be in charge.

I hate it, I hate it, I hate it!!!!

They're all so oblivious and righteous in their beliefs at the same time.

Azriel: “Kallias, Tarquin, and Helion might be willing to kneel. Thesan will kneel if the others do.”

Why would the three non-white high lords be willing to kneel?! Tarquin and Helion didn't expect to be high lord but Tarquin is doing a damn good job of trying to improve the lives of his court. Why would any of them give up their court's ruling to a near-enough stranger? Cassian nodded. Rhys as High King: he could think of no other male he’d trust more. No other male who would be a fairer ruler than Rhys. And with Feyre as High Queen … Prythian would be blessed to have such leaders.

Respectfully, what the fuck are you smoking Cassian? Feyre's rule so far a) gone to war b) had a baby. We've never seen her involved with politics except when she started a fight at the high lord meeting and burnt the lady of the autumn court. Blessed?????? Tell that to the Spring Court who got annihilated thanks to her. Tell that to the Summer Court who got annihilated because she opened the doors to Hybern.

So Cassian said, “Tamlin would probably fight, and lose. Beron would be the only one standing in your way.”

Tamlin is a high lord who is the same size as Cassian and fought in war bands. Like why do they act like he's not powerful???

Beron please I am rooting for you, make their lives difficult as hell

“I will not be High King. I will not consider it, not today and not in a century.”

Literally the only sexy thing Rhys has ever said.

How would it even work except for retconning the scant world building? High lords have their specific powers. You can't just make somebody high king surely, what happens to their powers?

I do think it will happen though. Rhys will change his mind and realise it's for the best if he becomes high king because amren said nesta's swords should be his.

Listen, just make Nesta high queen and be done with this.

#anon asks

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thecatsaesthetics · 6 months

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Read here or on A03

Exactly what it says it is, it's Feysand Chapters of ACOSF.

It's not going to cover all of ACOSF, nor is it changing the plotline overall, but if you were disappointed with the lack of Feysand in ACOSF I believe you will enjoy this.

Starting off after Chapter 46 - Feyre's thoughts about what has happened.

Feyre still had tears covering her lashes and did not see Nesta flee from the apartment. She placed a hand over her protruding belly.

“The babe in your womb will kill you.”

Nesta’s angry words rang in her head. Nesta had always been callous, had always known what to say to make Feyre hurt the most. Feyre had hoped the last few weeks had changed her, she seemed to be better. But Nesta had taken the first opportunity to hurt her, like she had so many times in the past. Feyre did not know why it hurt her so much, Nesta had done the same thing months ago. When Feyre found out how much she had spent in a single night of gambling and drinking. When confronted Nesta only attempted to humiliate Feyre and demanded she never speak to her again.

Feyre’s paint covered hand went up to stop the tears dripping from her eyes. She wanted to believe Nesta had told her because she loved her, because she thought she deserved to know the truth. Like Feyre had thought she deserved to know about her abilities with the blades. But Feyre knew, Nesta was hurt and wanted Feyre to hurt as well.

Feyre looked down at the paint on her hand, a bright shade of blue.

Moments ago, she had been in her painting room, laughing, painting, thinking up ideas for the nursey. All of that felt empty. Why should she build a nursey for a baby she would never get the chance to hold? Sadness threatened to overwhelm Feyre, and she felt for Rhys down the bond.

I know.

It was all Feyre could send him; she was so incredibly angry.

Feyre… he started to respond back, and she could hear the shakiness in his voice.

Feyre shut him out of her mind, placing a wall between them as hard as steel. She could feel him gently knock on it, but she ignored it. Her eyes met Amren’s –

“Never again” Feyre said with all the power her station commanded.

“I...”

“Never again or you will find a new court to serve” Feyre interrupted “I don’t care what he commands, I’m High Lady as much as he is High Lord. Never keep a thing of this importance from me again.”

Amren nodded.

“Was there a vote on it? Like she said?” Feyre asked.

“Rhys gave the order, no one voted” Amren said, “I think if we had, we would have voted to tell you. Especially after…”

“After what?” What more did Feyre not know.

“You need to speak to Rhys.” Amren said quietly.

Feyre could have winnowed back to the house; it would have been easier. The walk was what she needed though, she kept up a solid pace and felt the chilly air against her skin. Feyre hoped the air would cool her blood down. She was so angry, angry at Rhys, angry at Amren, angry at Nesta.

Nesta had wanted to hurt her with her words, and it had worked. Feyre played right into her twist game, just like she had so many times before. She couldn’t help but let out a sob, thinking of how many times and how many ways her sister had hurt her. This was different though, this affected her son.

Feyre placed a hand over her belly, trying desperately to not let fear or anger seep into her son. She thought back to the last appointment with Madja, how she said the wings would make for a difficult delivery. She had not said it would be an impossible one.

All this time she had been planning for her son. She had even mentioned to Rhys that they could teach him how to fly.

Rhys…

Feyre placed both her hands on her belly now, feeling Nyx’s kick her. The boy The Bone Carver had shown her was still in her mind, even after all this time. Feyre had even painted the imagine of the boy, hoping to show her son one day. A day that would now never come. Tears threatened to leave her eyes again, but she saw the River House in the distance.

Feyre stopped her walk to admire it, calling it a house was an understatement, but Feyre wouldn’t call it a manor. She had lived on a manor when she was young and again in the Spring Court. Those had never been a home to her, never had then been a place of dreams and laughter. This place, this house, it was a home, it had been a treasured gift and a promise of the future.

“So build a house for us, Feyre. Dream as wildly as you want. It’s yours.”

The home she and Rhys, had only dared to dream of, to wish on stars for. The home where they would live out all the dreams they still wanted to come true. The home they had both been deprived of, and now would never come to pass.

They had been so close to happiness, too close. Feyre bit her lip, holding back tears.

She slowly walked up the stairs of the house and entered her son’s nursery. She looked over the mural she had begun to paint, and her hands idly stroked the plush cradle she had bought months ago. Closing her eyes, saying a silent prayer to the Cauldron, she turned around.

Rhys was standing in the doorway, waiting for permission before entering. The look on his face made Feyre nauseous, it was a look full of fear, of terror. She slowly walked over to him, the walls of her mind still up –

And then, her beautiful, kind, adoring, mate… broke.

Rhys crashed to the floor, his sobs filling the room, his hands gripping Feyre’s paint covered shirt. He was repeating the word sorry over and over, but with the sobs Feyre could barely make it out.

Feyre let the walls of her mind fall, reaching into his mind, she felt it all. The terror, the terror of losing her, of losing them both. She saw in his mind him Madja confirming what he feared the moment he heard of the wings, and saw him go to Miryam and Drakon, the look of pity they gave him, of him on his knees before Helion… asking… no begging Helion…

“Rhys” Feyre said with sadness and understanding. She fell to her knees as well, gripping his face between her hands.

She planted kisses over his face, over his tears. He had not wanted to share this terror with her, with anyone. Feyre saw all of him, she saw how much he loved her, how much he valued her happiness over anything else. Saw his desperation to save her, to prevent this tragedy.

“Feyre, I tried…” Rhys sobbed out “I wanted to… I needed to find a way to save you. You were so happy; how could I rob you of happiness?”

Rhys eyes still didn’t meet hers.

“Rhys look at me” Feyre begged. His purple eyes shooting up to meet hers “I see you” She said the words she had said to him long ago, “I see all of you. I love all of you.” Feyre took him in her arms and held him through sobs. He gripped her tight, as if she would vanish if he let go.

#feysand #feyre archeron #rhysand #acotar #acotar fanfiction

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flowerflamestars · 6 months

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Another alternative Effloresce pov. Azriel, as the slow moving shitshow train wreck his life is is quickly becoming a fast moving shit show train wreck.

I cannot tell you how much I love this one!

So, I would say across all my fics Azriel is a character who is the most consistent? Especially since almost all of them were written before acosf TERRIBLY let us in his actually creepy little headspace, and I've additionally chosen to keep my made up shadowman as he is.

Effloresce Az is basically Starlight Az but SADDER. He's Daylight Az without a kiddo and husband, Shoreless Sea Az without the absolutely beneficial retirement, and man is he TIRED.

You're Azriel, and your job sucks. Your inborn skillset leaves you zero other options, and you know this. It's better to be the left hand of power than in a cell for life, but you know what? Sometimes you can only do so goddamn much.

You're Azriel and that's kind of all you've got. You're one of a kind, literally. Alone forever in that. But you love Cassian. You play the little games with Mor for harmony. You respect- alien, ancient, different, probably what you'll feel like in a thousand goddamn years if you live that long- Amren.

You see the good in Rhysand, limited as it is to personal things, but you also see the vast potential for failure.

You see him listening to this CHILD OF A GIRL- who seems nice, yeah. You're worried about her, frankly. The Courts of Prythian revived her and will not just let that go- but that doesn't mean you think she has, shall we say, good ideas.

You watch Cassian spend days arguing against this.

You rock up over the wall and realize these two mortal, innocent women have probably been taken captive by Spring. Your orders are a mistake, you have a war to fight that has nothing to do with these people, but you're here, and you might as well do some good.

You move to neutralize the threat.

Lucien Vanserra does not act like a vassal of Spring. No, not even at Autumn prince. You can drown fire in the dark, but you can't swallow the sun or an ocean of flame without end.

That doesn't matter either, because this determined little slip of blond sunshine just fucking stabbed you. And for the first time in maybe decades, you just want to laugh. You've fucked up, clearly, but you're okay. (You can live through so much worse than letting a human woman stab you to feel safe.)

You hear Cassian coming, and you know.

It doesn't matter what Feyre is saying. Has said. You're Azriel and you can't not know or not hear- she's wrong or she lied. You have a High Lord sweating blood to protect a stunningly, dangerously charming woman and you have her sister, who feels less like delight and more like a dream.

You're a shadowsinger, whose providence is secrets and these two woman are shrouded.

You're fucked, essentially.

You know they're not really human.

You know they're hiding, and Feyre is going to break that right open if Rhysand has his way, no matter how many times you point out that the Queens want nothing to do with Prythian's fae.

You're Azriel, and you've always been smart enough to stay quiet when you have no orders forcing you to do otherwise. You're polite. You're frankly, horrified. You have no idea what to do with the Archeron sisters acting like you're nothing to be afraid of.

You know, before Cassian knows, that every wind that has ever carried him had lead him right here.

(You remember what that felt like. The fear, the euphoria. You were young and stupid enough to consider it simple rightness, your extra senses on your side, pulling you toward the correct choice in fealty. You didn't know what it was until too late. You didn't know and you never even got to know or got to mourn. You didn't have the right to mourn a girl dead too soon, who would have never been anything but your queen had she grown old enough to wear a crown.)

(Dead before the start, just like you.)

You decide, immediately, you cannot let what happened to you happen to Cassian. Nesta Archeron might be a compelling power, might be a fighter with ash in her hair and a cunning mind, but Shahar was a High Lady born. Not even that could save her.

You understand the instant way you like Elain is magic, whether she knows it or not. (She does not). Real affection follows quickly, you are, despite all magic to the contrary, as Illyrian as Cassian. You cannot not know. You like Nesta too- if only for her ferocity. Her bleeding, present fury.

They treat you like a person.

Fearlessly.

Easily.

You watch as their sister breaks their hearts, cracks already laid. You watch Rhysand act more and more territorial, and of course you know why too. You watch Lucien Vanserra safeguard the lives and livelihoods of hundreds of humans and you understand this, here, is a Court too.

A better one.

You quietly, a secret, kill their father.

You bind yourself in blood to a favor, and use it to unshackle the Archeron bloodline and their vassals from the Queens.

You watch Nesta Archeron kneel in the snow, watch Elain Archeron pull a knife on a High Lord of Prythian over human lives, and think, with dread and barren exhaustion, you're making the right choice.

The hard choice.

(How many noncombatants died in Sangravah? In every city Amarantha occupied? How many servants in the Hewn City every year? How many Illyrian children in the starving north? How many deaths were Azriel's fault, because Rhysand didn't care?)

(The Archerons would rather die with their people than live. Were educating their maids. Sending their kitchen boys to university. Taking in the orphans of other estates, having never forgotten what it was to be forgotten, hungry and alone.)

You're Azriel, and you can't not know how badly this is going to hurt.

#FAST MOVING TRAIN WRECK AHOY #I only covered what's posted because the next chapter is truly #THE BONES OF MY SOUL IN MY HANDS THE WORLD ON FIRE AND I HAVE NOTHING LEFT TO GIVE BUT MORE DEATH #from Az's POV #he takes finding Shahars remains NOT WELL #plus you know #the war kickstarts #Cassian continues to act basically insane in a good way #And Nesta and Elain just keep raising the goddamn bar he was trying to ignore even existed #The Shahar stuff is actually really important #he does not tell Rhys #EVER!#Bones are literally he closest he's ever going to come #they weren't in love #they didn't even know each other #HE DIDN'T KNOW UNTIL SHE DIED #and of course #Rhys made that entirely about himself #Az just. I think he likes Feyre in this impish way canon always wants Cassian to (but then Cassian put her on such a high altar it failed)#but also? is too deep in the shit of it all #not to be like: she's a really powerful symbol #but she shouldn't be in charge????

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nikethestatue · 6 months

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How would you respond to those who claim that Azriel doesn't want Elain to grow as a person, doesn't want her to learn about her powers and prevents her from going on any missions? Kind of how he did it in ACOSF?

I don't think it's true at all.

I think Azriel is thoughtful, protective and cautious. And I think it extends to everyone--not just Elain.

Also, unlike Cassian and Rhys, I don't know if he is so gungho on training all these newly Made women. I think he feels they should be comfortable first, before throwing them into dagerous, unfamiliar situations.

I feel like it goes very much along with his mysterious personality--we know that Rhys is defined by magic and power--so he teaches Feyre about her magic and power. Cassian is defined by his physicality and his warrior background--so he teaches Nesta and the others how to use their bodies and how to fight.

Azriel, it seems, is not yet defined quite so concretely. He's got magic, a LOT of magic, but he isn't (yet) a High Lord who utilises it like Rhys, for example. He is a warrior like Cassian, but we don't necessarily equate him with that part of his personality.

He is a shadowsinger, he is a spy. Elain is a Seer. They both see and hear things that others don't. He was the one who uncovered her Gift, and the one who encouraged her to use it, explain what she was Seeing and feeling. He didn't hide her Gift from her. He didn't argue about her using it. He was perfectly fine with having her understand what she was dealing with and was a catalyst for that.

BUT, he is also very rational. And he understands that sending an untrained individual hunting for Death Troves isn't a great idea. Nesta's scried before. The nature of Nesta's power and relationship with the Cauldron is different from Elain's powers. He saw firsthand how Elain was lured by the Cauldron and I think he is aware of the Cauldron's 'love' for Elain. So yeah, no way in hell would he want her out there, traversing the world looking for magical items. I dont think it's him limiting or stifling her. I think it's being protective and understanding her capabilities, probably better than Rhys and Cass. He did the same with Mor--a very trained warrior, full of power and magic--and yet he absolutely forbade her from going to the Human Lands. He knew her limitations in that situation as well.

Unlike Rhys, and even Cassian, I don't think Azriel is the one to put others in unnecessarily risky situations. He reminds me of Ruhn, who is protective of Bryce, and doesn't want her to do stupid, dangerous crap all the time. But, he equipped Elain with Truth Teller for the final battle, and didn't insist on hiding her somewhere. I think, more than most people, he understands the time of what's appropriate and when. Amren knows that Elain is powerful and can take care of herself, but Azriel understands that as well. I think he is just a lot more reluctant to send these girls into situations that are wrought with danger.

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busterswritehand · 1 month

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You're Timeless To Me

Roughly 180 years after the events of ACOSF, Lucien looks up to find that he is surrounded by strangers. Meanwhile, Nesta realizes she has stayed still while the world around her keeps moving. Misery loves company, but these two can hardly make small talk.

Part 2

Nesta watched that copper-haired male with narrowed eyes. It was a week until Starfall - a week of enduring him when it should be Elain. Elain should be making small talk with Azriel, Gwyn, and Mor - not him.

He was supposed to have turned tail and fucked off when it was apparent Elain wanted nothing to do with him. Instead, he had lied to everyone. He lied to protect the mating bond between Elain and Tamlin, of all people. He lied - and she followed suit. They lied and then they both left. Her gaze steeled into fiery daggers as those thoughts festered in the front of her mind.

"Staring at me like that isn't going to make me drop dead."

Nesta blinked. Lucien was staring back at her - his eye flickered with an impish challenge.

She could feel her face begin to heat up, but Nesta simply huffed and stalked towards a table of appetizers. Wines, cheeses, fruits, meats, nuts, jams, and breads littered the table in an intricate display. She poured herself a glass of sweet red wine from the Spring Court, a present from her dear sister - an apology for not being able to make it.

She could hear the chattering pick up almost instantly, but it wasn't until a moment later that she felt eyes shift away from her. From her peripheral vision, she could see Feyre settle beside her.

"You could try to be cordial with him." Feyre picked around the spread, selecting bits of food and setting them on her plate.

Nesta did not respond. A mixture of pride and embarrassment. The thistles she tried so hard to trim always grew back eventually. A defense to protect herself and her sisters - not that they needed it. They were happy.

"It's not his fault," Feyre pressed.

Nesta knew that on some level. It did not change the fact that Feyre had slowly replaced Elain's presence with anyone but her. Usually, she could ignore it, but this was a slap in the face.

Feyre stared at Nesta, refusing to back down.

"Fine," Nesta sighed, "I'll try."

"Thank you," Feyre nodded graciously before approaching the small group.

Nesta watched from the sidelines as she always did, observing her sister's inner circle. It had grown to encompass her own friends, Gwyn and Emerie. It was not necessarily a bad thing, but it wasn't the same as when it was just the three of them. It wasn't hers anymore.

She watched as Amren trickled in, then Emerie, who greeted Mor with a loving kiss on the lips.

They all were like a confusing, elaborate puzzle, and she was a rigid piece that didn't fit.

"Cassian will be here tomorrow," Rhysand announced as he sauntered into the room. Nesta jumped slightly, not at his abrupt entrance, but at the mention of her mate's name.

She could feel that pair of eyes on her again.

"And Nyx?" Feyre reached out a hand to Rhysand. He took it, interlocking their fingers.

"Will be dragged here by his ankles if his uncle has anything to say about it," he sighed. "I swear that boy might as well have been birthed by an Ilyrian war camp."

A pleasant laughter swept through the group. Despite that laughter, Nesta still felt pinned down by prying eyes. When Nesta looked over, Gwyn and Emerie caught her attention. They waved her over. She shook off that gaze with icy steel and walked towards her friends.

The chattering lasted from appetizers well into dinner. It was too much chatter for Nesta's liking. She had always loathed small talk, and as usual, she was surrounded by it. One thing that stayed consistent was the constant blabbering about nothing at group dinners.

She would occasionally pitch in on the conversation at hand -whether for the sake of catching up or giving her opinion - but Nesta never said anything more than she needed to. She wasn't the only one though. Lucien only spoke when addressed directly, though he seemed engaged in the several conversations around him. Like he was trying to feel out of his place in the group. Not that Nesta particularly cared, but it was cathartic, in a way, to see someone else on the outskirts of the tight-knit group.

Soon dinner devolved into a rowdy house party, one last hoorah before Feyre and Rhysand had to be responsible parents again. It was a little much for Nesta who slipped outside for some peace and quiet. The night air was refreshing, and it would have been the perfect spot to relax if someone hadn't beaten her to it.

Lucien sat on one of the steps, peering at the city skyline against the mountains. He set his wine glass down beside him on the step. Gas lights reflected off of his red hair, making his silhouette glow. Nesta stepped back to try and bypass him, but Lucien had turned around before she could even set her foot down.

"Tired of the noise too?" Lucien patted the spot beside him as an invitation.

"I'm fine right here."

"Suit yourself," he shrugged before turning back to look at Velaris.

Feyre's words echoed in her mind. Try to be cordial. Nesta sucked in a breath and apprehensively took a seat beside the male. She set her wine glass beside his and looked out at the city with him. They sat there for a moment while she tried to find words.

"I'm sorry for earlier," she said stiffly.

"For the door-slamming or the threatening stares?"

Nesta whipped her head to see a smile creeping across Lucien's face. He was teasing her.

She held her breath as she replied, "Both."

He laughed. She bit her tongue.

"You've never hid your disdain for me, Nesta Archeron."

"I don't hate you," Nesta was stumbling over her words as Lucien raised a sarcastic brow. "I was protective over," He didn't seem convinced. She huffed, "Oh like you were ever that fond of me."

Nesta clenched her jaw in response to his smug grin. This was funny for him - like a fox that had caught a venomous serpent for entertainment. Her cheeks began to heat up. She grabbed her glass and threw back her wine. Except it was not her glass or the sweet red blend she had poured. It was bitter, earthy, like freshly tilled soil. She reflexively spit out the wine all over her skirt. That seemingly broke Lucien, who let out a hysterical cackle.

She pointed a finger at him and opened her mouth to hurl some insult at him. She stopped before a sound ever left her mouth. Lucien's head was thrown back with tears peaking out from the corner of his good eye. He was a far cry from the male that danced on eggshells around Elain for months on end. This side of Lucien was genuine. Nesta knew that she had gotten him all wrong, and it infuriated her.

"I'm going home," she stood up and began to walk down the front stairs.

"Come on. I thought we were having fun," Lucien teased.

"We were not," Nesta cut him off. She stomped down those last few steps.

"Nesta," he called after her. He made no real effort to chase her down or make her stay. Instead, he just kept being coy.

"Goodnight, Vanserra," Nesta warned.

And that was that. She was left to wander home alone in the silent night. His teasing laugh played again and again in her head.

#lucien x nesta #nesta archeron #lucien vanserra #acotar #acotar fanfiction #gwenriel #emorie #i do what i want with side ships #and lowkey the tamlin and elain mates theory eats #the drama alone #tamlin x elain #you'retimelesstomeacotarfic #lucnes

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likecanyoujustnot · 4 months

Text

ACOSF- Feysand’s pov

Part 2: The reveal

A/n: do they have stoves in prythian? Idk. I’m saying they do. Also. Grovelling Rhys, I haven’t read a lot of things where they’ve had to grovel, so I hope it’s good. And nesta (😒). This is a very critical moment in the book, and in Feysand’s relationship. And I hope I did it justice.

Feyre

I was here far too late, spent too much time on this painting. Adriata, what it would look like once it was repaired. Rhys had shown me what it used to look like in his memories, the streets without rubble, with whole buildings, and happy people. Before Amarantha.

It was a small canvas to go in the baby’s- Nyx’s- nursery. A larger version leaned against the wall- a birthday gift for Tarquin.

I was finishing up the clouds in the sky when a frantic knocking sounded.

“Feyre?” It was… Varian.

Why was Varian knocking at this time of night?

I walked over to the door and opened it. He was shirtless and panting.

“What is it?” Something had happened. Fear shot through me. “Is it Rhys?”

He shook his head arm braced against the doorframe. “Nesta. She’s in Amren’s apartment. Pissed.”

“What happened?”

“I don’t know, I came to get you as soon as Nesta told me to get out, but she’s pissed- is that Adriata?” He looked behind me at the artwork. “It’s magnificent.”

I ignored the compliment, beckoning him to step out of the door so I could lock up.

“Come on.”

I couldn’t run, not without fearing I would hurt the baby. It was a delicate time, Madja had informed us less than two weeks ago, our most recent visit. When she had revealed the baby had wings. That it would make the labour more risky, which had caused Rhys to go pale. He’d been distant ever since.

“How did she even get down here? It’s ten thousand steps, that’s no easy feat.” We speed walked through the streets on our way to the apartment, I was grateful for Varian keeping pace with me, even though he probably wanted nothing more to run back there and protect Amren.

“I don’t know, she didn’t even seem winded.”

I reached out in my mind for Cassian.

Feyre. She’s in the city.

I know, she’s at Amren’s. Varian said she’s pissed.

Shit.

We got to the apartment and rushed up the stairs, there were shouts coming from inside.

“Stop this.” I was out of breath from running up all those stairs, but they both turned to me, Varian close behind. “Nesta, it should not have come out as it did.”

“Did Cassian tell you that?”

“No, but I can guess as much. He didn’t want to keep anything from you.” Cassian and my sister had a strange relationship, it was no secret they’d been sleeping together.

“My issue isn’t with Cassian.” She turned and glared at Amren “I trusted you to have my back”

The female glared right back, “I stopped having your back the moment you decided to use that loyalty as a shield against everyone else.”

“This conversation ends now. Nesta go back to the House. Amren you…” this was her house, and I knew better than to try and order her around “you stay here.”

Nesta let out a low laugh, “You are her high lady. You don’t have to cater to her. Not when she now has less power than any of you.”

She was beginning to piss of Amren, which was dangerous territory. “Amren is my friend, and has been a member of this court for centuries. I offer her respect.”

“Is it respect she offers you? Is it respect that your mate offers you?” Nesta spat.

Amren hissed at her “Don’t you say one more fucking word, Nesta Archeron.”

“What do you mean?” Rhys-.

“Have any of them told you, their respected high lady, that the babe in your womb will kill you?” There was nothing in her voice but cold, no feelings. And my heart stopped.

“Shut your mouth!”

It… couldn’t be true… Rhys- he would’ve told me. “What do you mean?”

“The wings, the boy’s Illyrian wings will get stuck in your fae body during labour, and it will kill you both.”

I couldn’t breathe, couldn’t think. “Madja just said the labour would be risky. But the Bone Carver… the son he showed me didn’t have wings.” No no no. “Did he only show me what I wanted to see?”

“I don’t know, but I do know that your mate ordered everyone not to inform you of the truth.” Nesta turned to Amren. “Did you all vote on that too? Did you talk about her, judge her, and deem her unworthy of the truth? What was your vote Amren? To let Feyre die in ignorance?” I could hardly hear her over the pounding of my heart. “Didn’t you question why your precious, perfect Rhysand has been a moody bastard for weeks? Because he knows you will die. He knows, and yet he still didn’t tell you.” Rhys. He- wouldn’t’ve. But clearly he had

I was shaking. I looked at the tattoo on my left arm, the death bargain. “If I die…” he dies too. No. “You… all of you knew this?” I looked at Amren, she was blurry through the tears.

“We did not wish to alarm you. Fear can be as deadly as any physical threat.”

“Rhys knew?” I was full-on crying now. It wasn’t possible. “About the threat to our lives?” Not just mine and Nyx’s, but to his as well. I looked down at the arm cradling my stomach. At our son. Who maybe I would never meet.

Amren said, her voice uncharacteristically soft, “I think it is best, girl, if you speak to Rhysand about this.”

Yes. Rhys. Fuck. He kept this from me, he knew I would die, and he didn’t tell me.

“I hope you’re content now.” Amren was talking, in the background, I didn’t hear it, didn’t see Nesta storm out the apartment, past Varian, standing there awkwardly.

Instead I covered my face with my hands and cried, sinking to the ground.

Rhysand

I hated meeting with the palace governors. It was boring, the same old stuff. Pointless, compared to the raging in my mind.

Feyre would die. Nyx would die. And I would die.

And I could do nothing to stop it.

All my life I’d had answers to any problem that faced me. And yet now when it came to saving the most important thing in my life, I was powerless.

I knew it was wrong to keep it from her. But I just couldn’t bring myself to tell her, to take away this thing that had brought us so much joy. And it was as Amren had told me “the fear could very well harm the baby”.

I was pathetic. And a coward.

I’d known for almost two weeks now. Cassian, Azriel, Amren, Mor, Nesta, Helion, Miryam, Drakon. They all knew

They all knew before Feyre.

I walked along the Rainbow. The rainbow Feyre had so bravely defended those years ago. I walked up to one of the railings on the edge of the bridge and looked at the water.

Sunday. Sunday. I would give Helion until Sunday to get back to me with anything. Or I would tell her regardless. Yeah. I could make us dinner, we could sit on the roof. And then I would break her heart.

Two days.

I’d done all I could think of, I’d gone and visited Miryam and Drakon on Cretea, and had left defeated. I asked Mor to make discreet enquires on the continent. I’d begged Helion to help us. On my knees. On the tattoos of the mountains and stars. I would kneel for no one. No one but my mate. And for the male I hoped could save her.

It was late. Feyre was probably at the studio. I smiled. I was so happy she’d found something, something that brought her joy. She would tell me stories of the children at her studio, at what that made her laugh, made her cry, made her excited to have our own child.

At the end of each week she would come home with the painting she’d been working on, pride on her face. And the paintings themselves incredible. It was pure talent.

She’d tried to teach me how to paint . I did not have the same natural ability she did. Private lessons usually ended with me taking her on whatever surface I could, ending up covered in paint.

I smiled at the memory. Turning to the road that would take me to the studio.

Rhysand.

Amren.

Come here, now. It’s Feyre

Fear shot through me and I reached across the bond for Feyre. Being met with nothing but her shields. I pressed against her consciousness, she usually let me in. I felt myself practically thrown from her mind, and I knew something was seriously wrong.

I winnowed to the entrance of Amren’s building, barging through the doors and running up the stairs.

I heard Feyre inside.

“You called for him.” She hissed.

“Yes I did, and I do not regret it.”

I through open the door and stopped. Feyre was lying on the floor glaring at Amren before turning to me.

“You.” She hissed. I flinched.

“You knew. You knew and you didn’t tell me.” Her voice broke, my heart with it.

Fuck. I understood, she knew about the wings.

“Feyre darling.”

“No.” She stood up, taking deep breaths. “Don’t do that.”

“Feyr-”

“How could you not tell me?! And to hear it from Nesta, of all people.”

I was missing a very big part of the story. But rage overtook my rational thought. Nesta. Fucking Nesta. She had done this.

Cassian.

Yes? He sounded grim.

Get Nesta out of the city before I kill her.

I didn’t wait for his response.

I approached Feyre, slowly, carefully, this stress would not be good for the baby.

“I’m so sorry, really I am, I know there’s no excuse, but I was afraid. And I’m so so sorry-” I tried to keep my voice calm, I took her face in my hands and wiping away at the tears on her cheeks, feeling them running down my own. Amren and Varian walked out into the hall, closing the door behind them.

She took a step back and my stomach dropped.

“Feyre-”

“Not right now Rhys.” She took a deep breath. “I need to calm down, if I don’t the baby could be hurt.”

Of course. Of course she’s just been told she’ll die and she’s thinking about the baby. My heart ached.

“I’m going to the cabin.” With that she winnowed away.

I fell to my knees. Sobbing.

I didn’t hear Amren open the door. Or poke me with her foot. I didn’t hear Azriel come into the apartment. I don’t know how he knew what happened. And I didn’t care as he hauled me up, throw my arm over his shoulder and winnowed us to the river house. As he half dragged me through the hallway and put me on the couch in the office.

My eyes were open, unseeing as he peered at me, shadows darting out, brushing my face, as if to confirm I was ok.

“You fucked up man.”

“I know.” My voice was hoarse.

“Get some sleep. Figure it out in the morning. Don’t do anything irrational.”

He walked over to the door.

“Good night brother.” His voice was soft as he left.

I woke up. Head pounding. Arms, back and neck stiff. I opened my eyes and saw I was in the office. On the couch. Feyre was always telling me I shouldn’t be sle-

Feyre.

The baby’s wings.

Nesta.

I wasn’t going to kill her. As much as I hated her, I hated myself more. And killing Nesta would only serve to piss off Cassian, and deeply upset Feyre and Elain.

So I would have to deal with the consequences.

I groaned and stood up. I was grateful for Az for bringing me here and not to our room. Probably would’ve upset me more. It was bad enough, the paintings hanging on the walls she had so carefully painted, her lingering sent.

It was like I had heartburn.

The door opened and I turned. Feyre-

No. Azriel.

“You needn’t look so disappointed.” There was a slight smile on his face.

“Cassian back?”

“I don’t think he’ll be back for a few days.”

I sat back down on the couch. My brother taking the spot across from me.

“So…” he began. “You fucked up.”

“You said as much last night.” I dropped my head into my hands. Fuck. “I- I thought I could find an answer. That I could tell her once I knew how to stop her dying. I could stop her hurting the baby from stress. That I could keep that joy in her eyes. Not replacing it with fear.” I looked up at Az.

“You should tell her that.”

“I don’t think she wants to talk to me at the moment.”

“You could try. Maybe she’ll hear you out.”

We were silent for a while. Az and I were like that. We didn’t need to fill the comfortable silence with unnecessary conversation.

“I’m no better than that asshole who looked her in his house.”

“Rhys.” There was a harshness in his words. “Don’t say that. You’re so much more, better, you’re selfless and courageous. Unlike him, you didn’t do it to control Feyre.”

“But I did it out of fear.”

“He did it out of fear he could not save Feyre when it was shown she could save herself. You did it to prevent her from feeling fear. To keep her as happy as you could, Rhys, even though it ate you up inside.”

I sighed. “It’s still no excuse.”

“What matters is not what you’ve done, it’s how you move on from it. You’ve made the mistake, you’ve shown regret for your actions. All you can do is beg and pray to the mother she will forgive you, and never do anything like it again.” Azriel’s face was calm, collected. He smiled a bit, “and pray she doesn’t chop off your dick.”

He was quiet most of the time, but Az had a sense of humour.

“I’ll go to the cabin after breakfast.”

Az stood up, and I clapped him on the shoulder, and hugged him. He thumped my back. And we walked down to the kitchen. On the way he filled me in that Cassian had told Nesta about the weapons, that we’d voted on it, and in a fit of rage, she’d descended the ten thousand steps and had gone to Amren’s.

Az left halfway through breakfast, saying he would otherwise have to deal with a few annoyed priestesses. I was glad he and Cassian were training them. Glad at the glimmer in Az’s eyes.

I would pay a visit to them one day. See their training.

“If I’m not back in two days, come look for me.”

He grinned as he winnowed out.

Feyre.

I had a plan in my mind. And hope in my heart. A foolish, childish hope, but hope nonetheless.

I had fucked up. And I would have to live with it.

Mother help me.

Feyre

That asshole. He knew. He knew. And I heard from Nesta. Said in the most condescending way, she hadn’t done it out of the goodness of her heart, she did it to hurt me.

I walked up to the cabin and threw the door open.

Maybe I would paint the whole thing black. Burn down the house.

No.

I would not let this anger, this pain, consume me. I would be strong. I would not let my child feel this.

I sat on the couch and looked around the house. It was the same as it was the last time we were here. When I had convinced Rhys to step away from the work for a few days. Safe to say work was the last thing on his mind.

I got up and looked in the cupboards, surely there would be some food. Yes. Soup and bread.

As the soup heated up I nibbled at pieces of the bread and contemplated what I would say to Rhys the next time I saw him.

He has this problem where felt he had to take the burden of all his problems himself. Cassian had said he’d been like that for as long as he could remember. Rhys felt that he could solve any difficulty that crossed him. And I knew that that’s what caused this. He couldn’t fix this problem. And it was killing him. I’d seen it in his haunted expression when he’d seen me on the floor in front of Amren.

Made worse because it was his genes that caused the wings.

But just because he had a reason didn’t make it right.

He’d show up in the morning, I knew that.

I put the soup in a bowl and sat at the table.

“Why’d you have to have wings, mmh?” I frowned at my stomach. “Couldn’t’ve just been born like your daddy, could you?”

I washed up the dishes and headed to the bathroom. My reflection stared back at me in the mirror, still covered in paint from the studio, pale, scared.

I washed the paint off my arms and face and got changed into a spare change of clothes.

The bed smelt like Rhys. I stared at the ceiling, I’d painted stars on it not that long ago, Rhys watching me with adoration on his face.

I fell asleep to that memory, hands on my stomach.

The sun was blaring through the window, I’d forgotten to close the blinds. My head pounded as I groaned and rolled out of bed. I wasn’t that far along but things had gotten harder.

I walked out of the bedroom and froze at the scene I saw.

Rhys.

Standing in the kitchen, wings out, wearing a tight black shirt, grey sweatpants and making, eggs?

The male knew I didn’t stand a chance against his cooking.

“What are you doing?”

“Omelette.” He turned to me and smiled.

So that’s how we were doing it then.

“I don’t want you here.” I crossed my arms.

“I know. That’s why I’m making you breakfast.” He flipped the omelette onto the plate and took it over to the table. “Eat.”

I remembered when I’d accepted the mating bond, put food in front of him and said that same word. Last time I’d been pissed at him too.

I slipped into the seat furthest from him and used my magic to bring the food to me. My hands were shaking as I brought the fork to my mouth.

He watched me intently. “How are you doing?”

Setting the cutlery down I replied, “Considering I’ve just been told the child I’m carrying will kill me, I’m okay.” He flinched. But I went on. “And having to hear it from my sister who probably would be happy if I did die, and only told me because she’s upset and unstable. Oh and that my mate has known for close to two weeks and not fucking told me.” My voice broke on the last word.

The chair screeched as Rhys got up and knelt in front of me.

He tucked my hair begin my ear. “I’m so fucking sorry.” I held his gaze as his hands came around mine in my lap. “Nothing I can say, nothing I can do will change what I did, and I will have to live with that. I fucked up. I thought that Miryam and Drakon would have a way.” So that’s why he’d been so haunted when he’d come back from Cretea. “Or that Helion would have something in his libraries.”

“You asked him to look the other day.”

There was pure agony in his expression as he said. “I begged him. I fell on my knees and pleaded with him to help me find a way to save you.” His gaze went to my stomach. “To save both of you.”

On his knees. On those tattoos that meant he wouldn’t kneel for anyone.

“Does he know how to save us?” My voice was barely there.

“I don’t know. I was going to give him till Sunday to get back to me. Or I was going to tell you anyway.” He looked defeated. “I’d wanted to, sweetheart, I really did. But I couldn’t take that happiness out of your eyes. I couldn’t replace it with fear, apprehension.”

We were both crying now.

“You hurt me, Rhys. You broke my trust.”

He pressed his forehead to mine. “I know, Feyre darling. And I swear I won’t do it ever again.”

“You better not.”

He smiled and kissed my forehead. “I’m so sorry. And I will do whatever it takes to make it up to you. However long it takes.” His hands went to the sides of my face, wiping away my tears. “You are the best fucking thing in my life, Feyre, my mate, my wife, my love, my best friend, the mother of my child, my high lady, and I love you, so so much.”

A choked sob escaped my mouth. “I’m still pissed at you.”

“I wouldn’t expect any less from you.”

My arms went around his neck and I burried my face in his neck. “I love you.”

And as he kissed me, and I almost forgot that we would have to go back to reality, to a world in which we would both die unless we could do something.

We lay in bed, arms and legs entangled, hair mussed and bodies sore.

“Rhys.” My voice was hoarse from screaming.

“Yes?” He smoothed back my hair.

“If… we die… who will be high lord?” The question had been on my mind since the truth had been revealed.

“Since I don’t have any children, brothers or uncles, probably a distant cousin in the Hewn City.” He paused. “We’ll have to write a few things, make sure Mor, Cass, Az and Amren are protected by the law, ensure Velaris passes into good hands and remains safe.”

“It… couldn’t be Keir could it?”

Rhys pressed a kiss to my temple. “Highly unlikely. He already has a high up position, and is very old.” He sighed. “Don’t worry about what will happen. Helion might still find something.”

“You don’t look so sure.”

He laid his head on me, right above my stomach, one hand resting on it. He remained quiet

“I don’t need you to worry about scaring me.”

There was a poignant silence and he started tracing patterns on my bare abdomen. “I’ve been around Illyrians my entire life. And I’ve never heard of there being a way to bypass the issue of a High Fae female’s pelvis not being able to pass a winged baby.”

“What does Madja think?”

He looked up at me. “She thinks that shifting… might be the best course of action.”

“But we don’t know how shifting will affect the baby.”

“Yes, but it could save you.”

“Rhys.”

He sat up. “Shifting would make sure you survive the labour.”

I sat up. “I won’t shift and doom Nyx.”

“Feyre, if there’s any way to save you, I will do it, I will put your life first. I would rather suffer the loss of our son than lose you.” He put his hands on my shoulders. “I won’t lose you, Feyre. I can’t lose you.”

I thought over it, it could save me and Rhys, and as he said, the loss of the baby would be devastating, but nothing if we died too. “As a last resort Rhys, only then will I shift.”

I knew that the pain in his eyes was reflected in mine. “I’m so sorry.”

“Me too.”

We wrapped our arms around each other. Whatever happened, we would face it together, as we always had.

A/n: again, it’s a very temperamental scene. And hopefully I did it well. (Though I probably made feyre a bit quick to forgive, but like Ive never really read anything with an extreme amount of grovelling so…)

Feedback appreciated

#acosf feysand pov #sarah j maas #acotar #feyre archeron #feysand #rhysand #acosf #acotar fanfiction

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