#gwynriel fluff

[bearbluebooks]

No Man is An Island

“Do you want children?”

“It doesn’t matter what I want.”

- Azriel Chapter 22 ACOSF

“Patience,” he urged as he ran a reassuring hand through her obsidian hair. With an exasperated sigh Catrin said, “Okaayyyyy daddy.”

The next day, her patience paid off. Before she could even ask the question, he said, “We’re going to the beach.” When it came to his daughters happiness, he didn’t know patience either. The smile on his daughter’s face was so bright, it warmed his heart to a degree he didn’t think was possible.

or

Gwyn and Azriel spend a day at the beach with their children, and Azriel reflects on his answer to the question ‘what do I want?'

Read under the cut or on AO3

Word count: 2371 words

Rating: Teen and Up

A bittersweet feeling washed through his body when he thought back to the moment in the dining room when Rhys told them about Feyre’s pregnancy. How Cassian had asked if he ever wanted children and that his answer was, “It doesn’t matter what I want.”

In truth, he didn’t think he would ever get close enough to someone to want to explore that aspect of life. To face every emotion that came with that decision- the fear, the shame, the lingering trauma.

More importantly, he didn’t think someone would ever choose him. Not once they knew about his troubled past. Or when they found out that the scars on his hand paled in comparison to the scars on his heart and mind. On his soul.

That’s what life had shown him, one failed relationship after the other. Five hundred years of pining after Mor became five hundred years of proving to himself that he wasn’t good enough.

Then there was Elain, who proved his two brothers were good enough to be mates to two sisters, unlike him. That didn’t stop him from chasing her in a desperate bout to show himself and the world that he was good enough. That he deserved to feel love. But all that gave him was more proof that love wasn’t meant for him- not in childhood, and not in adulthood.

Then Gwyn came into his life. Like a whirlwind on a calm day. Like that rare ray of sunshine in his cell. She was everything and she became his everything. Most days he still couldn’t believe his luck.

Today was one of those days, when luck couldn’t begin to describe what he was feeling. Standing on the soft sand which tickled his feet. With the sun high in the sky, casting its warm rays of light onto Azriel, Gwyn, and their two children.

Light brown sand separated the sea from the land beyond. Palm trees softly swayed in the rare cold wind. Offering a welcome reprieve from the hot summer day. A saltiness hung in the air, adding to the freshness of the air.

Summer court had the best seas, as proven by the enormous blue expanse in front of them. Light reflected off the surface in little dancing diamonds. The water was clear enough to hint at the mysteries that lay beneath.

The small paradise was empty save for them and a few others scattered across the huge sandy expanse.

Ever since he spotted the secluded spot on one of his reconnaissance missions, he knew he would bring his family.

Today was the day.

All the conditions were right, Azriel and Gwyn didn’t have a mission, their children had the day off, and the weather was agreeable. More than little Catrin who begged and begged to go to the sea. Ever since one of her classmates told her about the magical blue waves that hid nymphs, Catrin’s sole mission in life was to visit the sea. Gwyn used it as an opportunity to explain that she was part nymph, which made Catrin part nymph too. Catrin’s excitement only grew. So much so that it could barely be contained in her little body. “Daddy daddy daddy, please can we goooooo?” Catrin would ask with wide pleading teal eyes every morning. Every morning he had to answer, “Not today, my little shadow.” It hurt his heart to deny his daughter anything, but he wanted her first time to be memorable. He wanted the weather to be sunny and the waves to be patient. “We’ll go soon, I promise,” he assured her, hoping it didn’t break her heart too much.

Unbeknownst to her, every morning without fail, before he set foot in his daughter's room, he sent his shadows to check if the conditions were right.

One day, just as he opened the door, a small yet determined voice said “I will go by myself.”

“My shadows can take me too,” she said with an adorable pout and crossed arms. Azriel had to force himself not to chuckle.

He had heard about ‘childhood puberty’. He’d seen it. Nyx was a menace at that age. He vividly remembered the incident with the chandelier, when he just learned how to fly and got one of his wings stuck in the golden contraption.

Somehow he knew, with his Catrin, it had less to do with her age, and more with her personality. There was another teal-eyed female in their family whose will was so strong, that nothing could break it. And he loved them both dearly for it.

“Patience,” he urged as he ran a reassuring hand over her obsidian hair. With an exasperated sigh, Catrin said, “Okaayyyyy daddy.”

The next day, her patience paid off. Before she could even ask the question, he said, “We’re going to the beach!” When it came to his daughter's happiness, he didn’t know patience either. The smile on his daughter's face was so bright, it warmed his heart to a degree he didn’t hold possible.

“Let’s go, mom and your little brother are waiting downstairs.”

Her bouncing body and outstretched hands held the same urgency as his words, “I want to go. I want to go. I want to go.” At record speed, she got dressed and ready. Within minutes they stepped into his shadows which took them to the land of magical waves and hidden nymphs.

There was still despair. Beron still schemed to take over more territory in Prythian. And Koschei still formed a threat even though he was still trapped in the lake.

But on a day like today, all he could feel was hope- when he looked into his son’s hazel eyes, heard his little girls laugh, and felt his mate’s touch.

Gwyn looked amazing in her burgundy bikini. The color complimented her hair as much as it contrasted the teal in her eyes. Today, she wore her hair high in a bun, showing off all her freckles scattered across her body. Her long legs moved through the shifting sand with ease. Her hips swayed in a motion that resembled a song he couldn’t stop listening to. His eyes were transfixed on her full ass, her scattered freckles, and her confident strides. Azriel was so engrossed by her beauty, that he didn’t catch the male staring at her from across the beach until one of his shadows informed him, someone is looking at our mate, Shadowsinger.

Anger slowly made him see a different kind of red, as he balled his hands into fists and scanned the beach for the horrible male who dared to look at his Gwyn. On the opposite side of the beach, there was a male who slowly undressed Gwyn with his eyes.

There wasn’t much his hands could do, not when he was carrying their son. Luckily, five hundred years of existence taught him a thing or two about non-verbal warfare.

The rational part of him knew she was his and he was hers. The irrational part screamed mate, mate, mate, and demanded action. Demanded for that male to be punished for even so much as looking at his Gwyn. There was no rational part left when he expanded his wings to their full length and stared the man down with a promise of a slow death. His shadows gathered around him, like snakes ready to strike. He would take him to Hewn City and take his time. Ripping off- the thought was interrupted by a reassuring caress on his arm, reminding him where he was, who he was with. When he looked up, he saw such stillness reflected in her eyes, it rivaled the calmest seas.

A rush of stillness went through him, like a tidal wave of rest, taking away the rising anger with it. “I think you’ve scared him enough,” she said with a reassuring smile.

Most people would balk at the show of aggression. Would be scared of him. Would run in the other direction. Just like the male currently did. Not Gwyn. Never Gwyn. “Let’s go for a swim,” she said instead as she held his scarred hand in hers.

When Orrin touched the cold water of the sea, it became clear he wasn’t as enamored by it as his big sister. Cries of woe spread echoes across the water. Rippling its calm waves. The sound traveled through his bones, urging him to act immediately. “I’ll take him back,” Azriel said to Gwyn who was playing with Catrin in the sea, “Have fun,” he added before he gave Gwyn a quick kiss. Gwyn gave him a small smile in return.

Azriel held his little boy tight in his arms, rocking him gently as he walked them both back towards the safety of land. “It’ll be alright,” he reassured him as he bounced him up and down. “Daddy is here.”

The words temporarily brought him back to his own youth. Back to the little room and the horrors that occurred in the darkness that replaced his childhood. All the times when he wished his dad, anybody, would be there. Instead, his shadows kept him company. Replacing that warmth he craved deeply, with the cold touches of shadow, and whispers of all that occurred outside.

When Gwyn told him she was pregnant, terror filled his body before joy could. He was convinced he would fuck up just like his dad did. When Gwyn saw the fear in his eyes, she held his face in her hands as if he was the most precious thing to exist in the world, and said “You will be a great dad Az,” her thumb caressed his cheek, “I will kick the ass of everybody who says otherwise.” When he smiled she added, “Including you.”

When he looked back at the love of his life, he saw his shadows follow Gwyn like cats. Twisting and vying for a spot closest to her.

She always looked freer in the water, where she moved with such fluidity it was as if she’d been made from it. Where she could take in the freshness of the sea breeze, and feel the rays of sun on her pale skin. After every beach visit new freckles would appear out of thin air- kissing her nose, framing her long legs, gracing her breasts. That same night, he would make it his personal mission to find each new one and worship it like every other part of her body.

Her hair formed a stark contrast with the blueness of the waves, which allowed him to find her wherever she moved. Her eyes, on the other hand, were so bright blue, that he could easily mistake them for the sea. She looked so at home, that part of him was afraid the sea would claim her as one of its own.

When he averted his gaze to his daughter, he saw only excitement. Initially, Catrin grimaced when the coldness of the sea hit her wings. When Gwyn taught her how to swim, excitement quickly replaced the wariness.

Azriel watched the scene contentedly with his baby boy calm in his arms.

Catrin and Gwyn stayed in the sea for so long that their fingers were all wrinkly. “Look daddy, my hands are like grandma!” Catrin said excitedly. “Let’s not tell grandma that,” Azriel joked.

“Did you see a nymph?” Azriel asked. “I am a nymph,” Catrin replied with such confidence he couldn’t help but laugh. “And part Illyrian, Shadowsinger, and high fae,” Gwyn added.

“I am amazing,” she said.

“You are,” Gwyn confirmed as she placed a soft kiss on her head.

“Come here,” Azriel urged when he saw Gwyn slightly shiver. When she neared where he sat on a towel, the smell of Jasmin and vanilla enveloped him, beckoning him home. Gwyn gratefully snuggled into his side and Catrin quickly took up a seat in her mother’s lap. Azriel stretched out his wings to offer shelter against the coldness of the wind which made light flitter through the membranes of his wings, casting soft patterns onto the sand.

“Daddy I’m hungry,” Catrin murmured from next to him.

“Didn’t you catch some fish?” He asked in his most serious voice. “I’m just seven daddy.” She answered with crossed arms. “Fishies are my friends. I eat sandwiches and candy.”

Steel resolve that one, just like her mom.

“Open the bag,” he urged her.

“Sandwiches and candy!” She yelled excitedly as she jumped out of her mom’s arms.

“Sandwiches and candy,” Gwyn said just as excitedly. “Well done daddy,” she added with a smile so bright it rivaled the sun.

“Let me first, give your baby brother some food, and then your daddy and I will join,” Gwyn explained. With outstretched hands, she took Orrin from his hands. He made sure to cover them from sight by enveloping them in his wings. As soon as Gwyn finished, Catrin stood in front of them with the promised sandwiches and candy, “Eat, eat, eat.”

And ‘eat, eat, eat,’ they did.

Azriel ate his sandwich looking at the sea, when the answer to the question resounded in his mind. If it was up to him, he wanted to have a love that resembled the sea, infinite and unconditional. A depth unknown even to them.

But he never dared voice it in that living room five years ago. It seemed more likely to count every star in the sky than find the kind of love he dreamt of. To feel that he deserved that kind of love seemed even more impossible.

Then he looked at Catrin, who almost inhaled her sandwich, at Orrin, who still looked a little bit drunk from his mother’s milk, and Gwyn, who had such a bright smile on her lips, that he thought his heart might explode. And he knew he had everything his heart never dared to hope for.

“Are you okay, Az?” Gwyn asked slightly worried. Undoubtedly feeling the mix of emotions through the mating bond. “Never been better love,” he said as he ran reassuring caresses up her back. “I love you,” he added, hoping she knew the single word could never express the full depth of his love. She placed a searing kiss on his mouth and communicated everything words couldn’t, me too.

#gwynriel #gwyn x azriel #acotar fanfiction #gwyneth berdara #acotar #gwyn acosf #azriel shadowsinger #a court of silver flames #ao3 fanfic #canon #gwynriel fluff #gwynrielweeks2023 #gwynrielfic #gwynriel fic

[sunshinebingo]

Gwynriel - 600 words - Fluff

***

“I can’t do this,” Gwyn complained.

This was too painful. Why did nobody ever warn her that it would be this hard?

“Yes, you can,” Azriel protested even as she felt the onslaught of emotions that flowed from his side of the bond.

“I can’t.” She closed her eyes and shook her head. “It’s breaking my heart.”

Gwyn squeezed his hand with both of hers. She pursed her lips tightly, trying her hardest to keep the tears that were pooling in her eyes from falling with a few rapid blinks.

She had attempted to be strong until now. She had swallowed her emotions and pretended like this was not affecting her as much. But it was. And she could no longer deny it even if she tried. So she placed her heavy heart in her mate’s loving hands and let him reassure her instead.

“I’m here with you, my love,” he said, looking down at her with an encouraging smile. “We’ll get through this together.”

He swiped away the single tear that rolled down her cheek, kissed her on the forehead and let her lean her head on his shoulder as they looked at the two little figures with their hands intertwined as they entered the small building with the other children.

Gwyn released a heavy sigh. “They grow up too fast.”

“Do you think they will miss us?”

As if in answer to his question, their daughter turned around right before she could step inside. Their son followed his twin’s line of sight and also turned to look at their parents. While their daughter wore her usual beaming smile, their son seemed less thrilled about his first day at school. The concern in his brown eyes felt like a knife twisting deeper inside Gwyn.

She blew them both a kiss that floated on the wind. It caused a little smile to tug at their son’s lips and made their daughter giggle. Both of them waved a final time at their parents before they followed their new friends inside.

As soon as they disappeared from sight, Gwyn buried her face in the crook of her mate’s neck and cried. Azriel rubbed her back and murmured soothing words to her as he rested his head on top of hers.

Their babies were growing. And she feared that the day when they would no longer need their parents would come in the blink of an eye. If only she could turn back time and relive the moment when Azriel and her had held them in their arms for the first time.

“Do you want to fake an emergency so that we can get them home early today?” she proposed once she managed to stop her crying for long enough to speak.

She wanted to hold her babies as close as possible, bask in their warmth and innocence for as long as she could. She wanted their loud laughs to wrap around her while they complain that she was crushing them with her too tight hug.

Azriel’s chuckle was accompanied by a tug on the bond that tethered their hearts to each other. Gwyn knew that she would not be the only one who would need comfort as soon as they would be alone. He kept holding her as they started walking towards the street, past all of the other teary-eyed parents who had also been watching their children go.

“Come on Valkyrie. Let’s go home and cry some more.”

“You didn’t answer my question,” she pointed out with a sniffle.

Azriel smirked. “We’ll see.”

#gwynriel #Gwynriel fluff #gwyneth berdara #azriel shadowsinger #Gwynriel babies #I don't have kids so I don't really know how it feels to watch your babies grow #But I imagine that it must be hard sometimes to think that they will eventually leave #fluff #pro gwynriel #azriel x gwyn #gwyn x azriel

[dawneternal]

Just a Favor | pt 5 | Gwynriel

✦ Hopefully the description of the temple makes sense! If not, I'll do a little doodle of it lol I love thinking up places and things that might exist in Velaris

✦ Warnings: all fluff my dudes

✦ Word Count: 1.6k

✦ AO3 Link

✦ Masterlist

Gwyn stood in the training ring, moving through positions with a wooden sword. When she arrived in the ring early and found it empty she had been too nervous to stand still. So she’d kicked off her lovely satin slippers and began practicing any movements that her fancy clothes would allow.

Nesta had leant her a nice dress, a simple teal silhouette with a layer of embroidered gossamer over top. She’d worn her sea-glass earrings and swept her hair back with a matching comb. She knew she looked pretty. But it only served to make her more nervous. Maybe she was overdressed.

But as Azriel appeared at the far edge of the ring, all of those worries dissipated. He had dressed up too, in a black sweater and black pants. Shiny boots not yet worn from training and fighting, and little gold hoops in his ears. His hair was slicked back from his face, and as nice as it looked, she missed his usual messy curls. At least he looked as unsettled as she did, hands shoved in his pockets as he made his way toward her.

“Hi,” She whispered, unsure if he would even hear it.

“Hi,” He said back, a smile spreading over his face, “You look beautiful. You didn’t have to dress up for me.”

“Who said it was for you?” She asked with a smirk, and Gods he wanted to kiss her right there.

“I don’t see anyone else waiting to whisk you away,” He chuckled.

“Are you whisking me away, shadowsinger?” She straightened, eyes glittering with interest.

“If that’s okay. Winnowing or flying?”

“Winnowing,” Gwyn said quickly, swallowing hard, “Definitely winnowing.”

Azriel waited for her to slip her shoes back in and then offered an arm ignoring the humming of the bond in his chest as she tucked her hand into his elbow. He winnowed them away into the heart of Velaris.

When Gwyn’s vision stopped swirling, she found herself standing in front of a tea shop. Fae-light lanterns swung in the breeze, hanging from the faded awning. Potted plants lined the sidewalk in front of the sparkling windows, some she recognized as tea plants. Then Azriel was leading her inside. It was cozy, lovely art covering the walls and mismatched tables and chairs tucked into every corner. A rich and spicy smell filled the air and it made her relax a little.

Azriel nodded to the woman behind the counter, who winked at him as he led her to the back of the building. A few doorways led in different directions, one most likely to the kitchen. The shadow singer opened the middle door, revealing a stone staircase lined with fae-lights.

“What is this?” She asked, peering down the dark stairway.

“Something you’ll like,” He said, placing a hand on the small of her back to urge her forward. She hoped he did not notice her shiver.

Gwyn swallowed her nerves and started down the stairs. As they descended, she realized she could hear the bubbling of water. When they reached the bottom and their destination was revealed, Gwyn paused with a gasp. They were in an alcove cut into a small cliffside above the Sidra. Mossy stone made up the walls and arched ceiling, candles and lanterns hung from above to give them light. Water trickled down in little man-made waterfalls, running through carved swirls in the walls and into little pools in the floor. A carved railing separated them from the churning river below, and a few benches sat before it. Beyond the bank across the river, the city glowed and hummed with life.

“What is this?” She asked again in a whisper.

“It’s a temple,” He answered, smiling at her awe, “To the spirit of the Sidra.”

He turned her around so she could see the mosaic behind them, depicting a river spirit among swirls of fish and water. Then he moved to sit on one of the benches, beckoning her to follow. She sat beside him and gazed down at the river, illuminated by the lights of the city.

“It’s beautiful,” She murmured.

“I thought you’d like it,” His smile grew to a grin, “You fit right in.”

She smiled up at him and that anxiety returned, filling her stomach with butterflies. His eyes looked as wild as they had that morning, and she swore he took a deep breath. She found herself blushing, though she wasn’t entirely sure what caused it. Maybe his handsome features, carved out of the moonlight and the lights of Velaris. Maybe the fact that they were alone in such an ethereal place. A place meant for telling secrets.

“I’m sorry again for flying away,” Azriel swallowed hard. His smile had faded.

“That’s the third time you’ve apologized,” Gwyn chuckled.

“And it’s still not enough,” He shook his head.

“I think you’ve made up for it, shadowsinger,” She whispered, daring to let her eyes lock on his. She watched his lips part, his breath catch in his throat.

That kiss was worth it all, she thought but didn’t say.

“I have to tell you a story,” Azriel said, his voice low and soft. His fingers twitched, like he had almost reached for her hand and decided not to.

“Tell me,” She gave him an encouraging smile, though she was barely able to hear her own voice over the thundering of her heart. Azriel turned his gaze toward the water and drew in a long breath.

“A few years ago I met a very brave girl. Sometimes, selfishly, I wish that I had met her on a different day. At a different time. So that I wouldn't know what it was like to see such pain in her eyes. But since then, I have watched her claw her way out of the darkness and I have only ever been in awe.”

Gwyn stared at him, lips parted and tears in her eyes. He did not have the courage to look at her yet.

“And then she went into the Blood Rite,” Azriel’s voice broke, pained from the memory, “And I worried I'd never get that chance to tell her how incredible I think she is. But I should've known better because not only did she make it out but she won the whole damn thing.”

He could not help his grin, the beaming pride in his eyes.

“But that made me lose all of my courage completely. I'm not worthy of her. Not in the slightest. So I gave up any idea of telling her how I feel. She is beautiful, and kind, and fierce, and full of so much light and love. And I know I'll never compare. I still live in the darkness. I'll probably stay in the darkness.”

The shadowsinger swallowed, still gazing down at the river. Gwyn watched him speak, the moonlight kissing his features. Her heart was so full she thought it might burst and she wanted to tell him he was wrong. That he was the one who was beautiful and kind and fierce. But he had more to say.

“And then, a few days ago, she asked me to kiss her. And I said yes because I am selfish and I wanted any affection I could get from her. And I never imagined….” He trailed off, a lump growing in his throat.

"I wanted it to be you who kissed me,” Gwyn whispered, “I was never going to ask anyone else. I guess if you said no, I would have eventually. But I always wanted it to be you.”

Azriel finally met her eyes.

“Gwyneth,” He hardly ever said her full name anymore, but she loved the way it sounded on his tongue. Smooth like golden honey.

“Yes?” The world stopped, time frozen as she waited for him to continue.

“I flew away because I was surprised. Because I felt the bond snap.”

Gwyn looked down, heart leaping into her throat. The words she had not let herself imagine. The thing she had hoped for but would not name. Her future had been teetering close to the edge and it had actually fallen the way she wanted it to. When she looked back up at him, her eyes were full of tears.

“I can't comprehend why,” He croaked, "I can't explain why. Part of me wants to apologize and tell you I'm sorry that it's me. And part of me just wants to ask you to accept me anyways, even if I don't deserve it.”

“Azriel,” Gwyn reached for his hands and held them, “You are one of the most incredible people I've ever met. You are the only one who sees yourself as this broken thing. And I am not so whole and complete myself, but I can love you with every piece of me that I have.”

“You could love me?” Azriel's chin wobbled as he stared down at their joined hands.

“I think I already do,” Gwyn whispered.

Azriel pulled his hands from hers and brought them to her face, holding her gently. He studied her for a long while, memorizing the exact moment she had said the most wonderful words he'd ever heard. Gwyn wrapped her hands around his wrists, smiling up at him as she let him digest what she'd said.

“You don't have to accept the bond today,” He said, “When it snaps-”

“I know,” She gave him a shy smile, “I…I think I need to consider whether I'm ready for that. But I want you to know that I will accept it. I will be your mate.”

“I didn't dare hope to hear you say that,” He whispered, pulling her closer, “Ever.”

“I'm full of surprises,” Gwyn grinned at him with eyes full of starlight. Then she leaned in and kissed him.

#gwynriel #gwynriel fic #gwynriel fanfiction #gwynriel fluff #gwynriel fanfic #gwyn x azriel #azriel x gwyn #azriel fic #azriel fanfic #azriel shadowsinger #azriel acotar #azriel x gwyneth #gwyneth berdara #gwyn berdara fic #gwyn berdara fanfiction #gwyn berdara fanfic #gwyn berdara #gwyn acotar #acotar #acotar fanfiction #acotar fic

[thelov3lybookworm]

When Shadows Ward Off The Darkness (Prologue)

Summary: The mermaid has a secret mission, and she is nervous.

•○●⛦●○•

A/n: sooooooo....... I AM YOUR SECRET SANTa MY LOVELY @bibliophiliaxvignette !!!!! siiiikeeeee!!!

im hoping me pretending to not be your santa worked and i hoped i was successful in fooling you lol

hehe im so excited aaahhhhh

i hope you like it 😉🤭❣

(also, this prologue happens after a few parts, towards the end, ya know? it only really exists to get your interest piqued 🤭)

anyways, enjoy!

@acotargiftexchange

•○🌑○•

The sun beat down on Gwyneth, and she turned her head towards the light, savouring the feeling of it on her skin.

It was not everyday that she got to feel the feeling of the air in her lungs and in her hair, the sun and wind caressing her skin, what with her being holed up underwater by her mother.

But being able to come up to the human lands wasn't fun either when you had an agenda behind your visit.

Gwyn sighed, glancing to where she could see the silouhette of the homes the humans lived in, before she dived into the water, moving her lithe body in the way that her mind knew how to before her body did, the way that had been embedded in her blood before she was even born, before she even knew of her heritage.

As she swam her way towards her destination, she observed the fishes that swam alongside her, the way the light from the fading sun danced on their colourful scales.

Thinking about how beautiful the scene under the water looked was better than thinking about what she had been tasked to do.

Before she knew it, she had already reached the place where she always met him, and she took in a deep gulp of oxygen from the water using the gills on her neck, and let herself surface, hoping that he would not be there.

Of course, fate had begun being cruel to Gwyn recently, and she found him reclined on a fallen tree, one of his leg propped up and the other stretched out, looking as carefree as ever.

He didn't notice her at first, whistling softly as he leaned back on an elbow, staring up at the birds circling near the still standing trees, and her being in no hurry to have his full attention on her, simply studied him. It was already difficult enough thinking about what her mother had tasked her to do, and she knew if he gave her his signature charming grin, she would crumble.

At that moment, the force of how unready she was hit her, and her gills fluttered, trying to do the job her lungs were failing at.

To no avail, as the moment she tried to draw in a breath, he glanced towards the waters, and a beautiful smile split his face.

"Gwyneth."

FUCK.

•○🌑○•

Taglist: @bubybubsters @eos-princess @nightless @harrystylesfan2686 @cassie6392

#gwyn x azriel #gwynriel #gwynriel fluff #gwyn berdara #gwyn acosf #gwyneth berdara #pro gwynriel #azriel x gwyn #gwyneth x azriel #azriel #azriel fanfic #azriel acotar #azriel spymaster #azriel fluff #azriel shadowsinger #acotar series #acowar #a court of silver flames #acotar headcanon #mating bond #a court of thorns and roses #acotar writing #sarah j maas #acotar fanfic #acotar fluff #acotar fandom #acotar #acotar fanfiction #acotar gift exchange

[julemmaes]

“hesitantly tugging the other's fabric of their shirt or sleeve, testing the waters

- the other notices so they pull them into a hug, smiling as they just watch them melt”

For gwynriel or nessian??? 💕💕💕

Keep them coming girl I'm having so much fun with these ones you have no idea. I also reblogged some others posts with prompt if you need inspo, but feel free to continue really

This can be considered a part two to the previous prompt you sent, but can be read separately

Word count: ~2k

Azriel was tired.

No, he corrected himself mentally, "tired" wasn't even beginning to explain the exhaustion binding his bones. Or how he felt like his eyes could pop out of their sockets at any minute with how swollen and read they were.

Surely staying in the pool the entire afternoon and swimming underwater without any goggles hadn't been the smartest option, but the surprised wows and oohs coming from Nyx whenever he opened his eyes and looked at him had been enough to convince him it was worth it.

Now, he wasn't so sure anymore. 

Everyone was crammed in Rhysand and Feyre's huge kitchen—not that anything else in their summer villa could be considered anything but—and he was keeping to himself in the corner that faced the backyard, in case he needed a fast escape plan. 

He loved his family, he truly did. But they could be a bit too much from time to time, and now that his only excuse to avoid adult interactions had been put to sleep, he felt like he had to find another way lest people started approaching him.

He sighed to himself, sipping his wine as he cracked another peanut in his fist. 

There was another person in the room that could make this less miserable for him, but he really didn't want to pull her out of that bright bubble of laughter that surrounded her.

Azriel looked to the side, glancing at Gwyn.

She was sitting on the edge of the kitchen island closer to him, her hands tucked under her thighs and her naked legs dangling. She was only wearing her bikini bottom and one of his dark blue sweaters and her hair were like a fire avalanche of beauty.

She was stunning. 

And he was the luckiest piece of shit ever.

His girlfriend turned his way, tilting her head to the side as if sensing his gaze on her. She flashed him the whitest and brightest smile she could and his heart sunk. She squinted and her freckled nose wrinkled in that adorable way of hers. 

He was so lucky.

She frowned slightly, her smile still in place, as if to ask him if everything was okay. He nodded tiredly, assuring her he was good and after a few beats where she observed him attentively, she nodded in turn, convinced, and went back to whatever they were discussing. 

He suppressed a smile and hid his chin in his shirt, hoping no one was looking at him and would catch him simping over his love. 

When he went to take another swing from his glass and noticed it was empty he huffed, annoyed. And although he was already a bit tipsy and he knew he shouldn't be drinking with how weary he was, he risked his peace to go and retrieve a refill. 

He walked slowly to the center of the kitchen, brushing a finger down Gwyn's leg and moving further before she could stop him. He sidestepped Emerie and Mor, who were sitting on the countertop, legs intertwined together, hands on each other. Mor was kissing her fiancée's jaw and Emerie seemed completely oblivious to it as she kept talking.

"All I'm saying is that this house is already big enough," she laughed, dumbfounded. "You definitely don't need to add more rooms or another gazebo, the one you have is perfectly fine." 

Cassian snorted, throwing snacks in his mouth like they hadn't just finished a five course meal. 

"But wouldn't it be nice if in, let's say, a few years, when everyone starts having kids, they could have their own smaller, cozier gazebo?" Feyre said, leaning with her elbows on the island. 

A choking sound cracked the beautiful picture Feyre had been trying to paint, and Cassian started coughing, spitting crumbles and munched up food everywhere. Nesta, standing right next to him, looked at him with such a disgusted face that Azriel had to chuckle. 

Elain patted him on the back until he was breathing normally again and at this point, Azriel was wondering how not everyone had caught up on what was going on.

He shook his head as he poured red blood wine in his glass and kept silent as he made his way to Gwyn's side, trying as much as he could to hide behind his girlfriend's frame.

"You good?" Nesta asked her husband, eyeing him with calculated calm. 

His brother cleared his throat one last time before nodding.

Azriel noticed Rhysand holding back his own laugh, trying to hide his smirk in his cup of coffee. That was interesting. 

So Cassian had told him. Making a quick sweep of the entire room, only Lucien seemed to be in on their secret, considering how shitty of a job he was doing at pretending he wasn't laughing, too.

Bad, bad choice, had his brother made. If Nesta found out Cassian had told so many people, she would have him by the balls. And Rhysand owed him fifty bucks.

"Anyway," Feyre clapped her hands, "I really, really want to build a smaller version of the one we already have."

Azriel tuned her out then, not really caring for this topic and decided to focus on the feather touch caresses his girlfriend was trailing down his forearm. 

She did that all the time. 

Gwyn unconsciously touched him everywhere. All. The fucking. Time. Didn't matter where they were, what they were doing, who they were with, his girl found a way to have her soft, delicate, slender fingers on him. 

And he loved every second of it, but he wanted more. 

With his mind fogged by the alcohol and the throb in his head due to the extended time spent with his family, all he needed was a bed and his girlfriend in his arms, but he would never pull her from this place unless she asked him to leave.

And he definitely wouldn't initiate any kind of pda. He had tried, many and many times again, to be the kind of person who could just sweep their lover into their arms and cover them in kisses in front of a room full of people. Unfortunately, he wasn't comfortable with being the one to seek out his partners for fear they would feel forced to accept what he was offering in front of others. So he waited, and waited. 

And waited for Gwyn to do more than just brush the tips of her fingers up and down his arm, but she wasn't even looking at him, her back to his chest—and she wasn't even leaning on him. 

He brushed the fabric of his sweater, down to the hem of it and tugged slightly. When his girlfriend suddenly laughed he sucked in his breath and moved his hand away, tucking it in the pocket of his shorts.

Stupid man, just touch her. 

She'd told him so many times she wanted him to. That she needed him to touch her, even in front of their friends.

He counted to ten and then chickened out again, deciding to go with his trademark request for affection. 

He pinched her sleeve and tugged with a bit more strength than before. Gwyn's head shriveled his way and then looked down at his hand, still clasped around the shirt. The corner of her lips curled and then she scoffed, pulling her hand free from under her thigh. 

She silently opened her legs, turning more his way but still keeping her attention on the conversation. Azriel knew it was so the other's wouldn't catch up on their actions, so he didn't take it at heart. 

Not anymore at least. The first time she'd appeared this disinterested in their affection he'd fallen down a rabbit hole of insecurities and fears that had lasted days. 

He took his rightful place in between her legs, letting his hands travel under his shirt and around her naked waist, pulling her closer to him. With her sitting so high from the ground, his head reached just below her chin and when her fingers laced in his hair, she pushed his face right between her covered breasts. Her legs tied around his hips.

He sighed.

Heaven.

His thumbs were drawing circles right above her butt cheeks, where they were safely concealed by the sweater and that was the only sign he hadn't yet fallen asleep. Even though he didn't deem the chance of that too impossible, with the humming rumbling in her chest and the light scratches on his scalp.

Azriel closed his eyes and breathed in through his nose, enjoying their scents mixed together. The remnants of sunscreen on her skin, the perfume of her chamomile shampoo, the faint aroma of the cherries she'd been eating all night long.

He loved her.

The head massage she was giving him suddenly stopped and he felt her voice in his very brain when she whispered in his hair, "Are you tired, love?" 

He loved when she called him that.

He nodded, "Dead."

She mockingly gasped, quiet enough just for him to hear and then two fingers pressed lightly on his neck. He chuckled, not moving from his position. 

"Nuh-uh," Gwyn murmured, "still very much alive." 

His only answer was a groan. 

She shifted and her legs released him, and the cold that hit him shocked him enough that he moved away from her. Her hands fell to his shoulders and when he looked up at her, she was smiling down at him.

That fucking smile was going to be his death. 

Without taking her eyes off of him, Gwyn announced to the room, "I'm taking my big boy to bed. He needs sleep."

Azriel started shaking his head, ready to complain they could stay and force himself through another hour of this torment if it made her happy, but her hands were on his cheeks and she was kissing him before he could open his mouth.

Hoots and hollers rose from the others and Gwyn laughed in the kiss, forcing him to part from her, but he smiled nonetheless.

He didn't deign his family of a goodbye before his girlfriend dragged him out of the kitchen and up to their room, where he finally stripped and laid down for the night.

Gwyn crawled in bed after him, after having changed into just a pair of slips. They both slept naked at home, and they weren't about to change their habits just because they were on holiday. 

She curled around him, chest to chest, their legs finding their way to intricate without making it uncomfortable. Gwyn left a kiss on his collarbone before tilting her head back and looking him in the eyes, leaving another incredibly soft kiss on his chin. 

He was having the hardest time keeping his eyes opened, and he only managed to brush his lips against hers before sleep overtook him. 

#gwyneth berdara #azriel #gwynriel fluff #side nessian #side feysand #side emorie #acotar #acotar fic

[shadowisles-writes]

Double Blind (Part 3) [Gwynriel]

A/N: Hi! I’m so excited to finally finish this fic started by @hlizr50​ and continued by @foundress0fnothing​ for the ACOTAR Writing Circle. You can read part 1 of the fic here and part 2 here. It’s been such a pleasure to collaborate with all the writers involved in this project and you can find the masterlist for the 9 complete fics written between 9 people right here.

Word count: 1672

.

“So your friends set you up?” Rita raised an eyebrow as she filled Gwyn’s glass of wine.

“And they thought they were really smart with it, too,” Azriel sighed in the private booth, away from the rest of the dancing crowd where the music was louder.

Gwyn had seemed worried when they walked in, as if he would bring her to such a busy place where strangers were all touching each other and expect her to be comfortable, but she had visibly relaxed when he greeted Rita and herded her to the back.

“Cassian is going to be way too proud of himself when we get home,” Gwyn said before she tasted the wine.

“Stay here and let him stew for a while,” Rita instructed, familiar enough with Cassian that she could make those comments.

She walked away to serve the rest of her patrons soon enough, and the shadowsinger looked at Gwyn in a way that meant no good. “How do you feel about some harmless payback?”

Gwyn grinned and placed her elbows on the wooden table to rest her chin on her interlaced hands. “I’m listening.”

.

“You mother hen,” Azriel muttered as he walked into the House of Wind and immediately saw Cassian. “You should have told me if I had a curfew.”

Nesta and Emerie were undoubtedly waiting somewhere close to see the result of their little plan.

“I was just curious,” the male shrugged and glanced behind Azriel, tilting his head to search for Gwyn. “Where’s your date?”

“She went home,” Azriel removed his jacket and stretched his wings slightly. “You were right, we had a nice time.”

“Uh uh,” Cassian nodded. “And where uh, where does she live?”

“Close to the Rainbow,” the lie rolled off Azriel’s tongue. “I saw Gwyn and her date as I walked her home.”

“You… oh, that’s uh…” The war general stammered, his eyes wide for a moment before he coughed and found his words again. “That’s fun, was she having a good time?”

“Apparently, since it looked like she’s not planning on spending the night here.” The shadowsinger smirked as he said it and watched Cassian nearly liquefy into his seat.

“Oh gods,” he said, “don’t you think that’s a little fast?”

“She’s a grown female, what’s wrong with her wanting to have fun?”

“She’s with a stranger!” Cassian practically shrieked, and Azriel gave him a weird look.

“The girls set it up, he’s not a stranger to them.”

“No, right, sure,” he kept up his lie. “Have a good night then,” he let Azriel walk away and to his room, too panicked to notice the shadow that trailed him when he rushed to Nesta.

Azriel sat on a chair in his bedroom, his shadows curling around his hands around him as they told him what was going down word for word. He was struggling not to laugh too loudly, but the occasional chuckle still escaped him.

“Emerie she’s with a damn stranger!” Cassian whisper yelled in the library, as if that’d stop Azriel from eavesdropping.

“But she’s having a good time,” Nesta intervened. “And it’s not that late, why ruin it?”

“You’re not worried at all?” He was close to exploding. “We should tell Az the truth and go get her.”

“No! She’s down in the city, meeting people and having fun, it was the whole point,” Nesta stopped her mate from immediately putting an end to things.

“Nesta’s right,” Emerie added. “I thought Velaris was safe? And Azriel isn’t stupid, he clearly checked on her when she was walking with that male, which means the male had to recognize him. Do you think anyone would mess with her knowing she’s close to Rhysand’s spymaster?”

“Obviously not,” Cassian said through gritted teeth. “But what about her and Az?”

The females exchanged a look before Nesta spoke. “We did ask her several times if she was interested in him, and she denied it every single time.”

“Oh come on, you’ve seen them look at each other, she was clearly lying,”

“I thought so too,” Nesta shrugged. “But what if she wasn’t? We can’t just mess up a fun date for her because of what we think.”

“Fine, whatever,” Cassian’s wings rustled with exasperation, and he strode out of the library, past Azriel’s room and onto the roof to sulk.

Azriel snickered quietly as his shadows reported Cassian sitting on the ground, his arms around his knees as he muttered to himself. The words were so mumbled he couldn’t get them transcribed, but the shadows got whispers of insane, not safe, and random asshole that nearly had the shadowsinger doubling over with laughter. He couldn’t wait to see Gwyn and tell her everything that went down.

Cassian made to get up and sat down immediately with a sigh. He was restless, and he’d never sleep until he knew Gwyn was home safe and sound. Nesta’s words still rang through him though, if she was having a good time he didn’t want to ruin it, but the idea of her not being safe was driving him mad. Cassian, who was trained for highly stressful situations, couldn’t stop fidgeting as he thought of his friend, his sister, on a date with a stranger.

What if the male wasn’t nice? What if he expected Gwyn to spend the night with him and pressured her? What if she was scared and didn’t react the way he had trained her to keep herself safe?

Cassian growled with frustration, wings tight behind him as he ran his hands through his hair and tugged at the strands. He’d pull his hair out at this rate, but he needed to do something. Would Gwyn truly be mad if he showed up and she was having a nice time? Surely she’d understand and go home with him.

Not matter how many times he repeated Nesta and Emerie’s arguments to himself, he couldn’t agree with what they said. There was no way in hell his Gwyn would spend the night with a male she didn’t know. She’d been skittish enough around him and Azriel when they met and sure she had made progress and grown comfortable around other people, but to sleep with a stranger?

Cassian couldn’t believe it, and it was that thought that brought him back to his feet, leaping off the edge of the roof in an instant to go find her. He’d have to track her scent through the city, but he had used his senses for tracking in far worse conditions.

Azriel took that as his cue to jump out of his own window, his shadows hiding him from Cassian’s sight until he was out of the wards and could winnow to Gwyn.

“How did it go?” She turned on her seat at the bar to face him and Azriel took her hand to bring her back to their booth.

Rita, who had been keeping her company while she was alone, nodded at them with a smile.

“Cassian is losing his mind, but Nesta and Emerie wanted you to have fun.” He summed up knowing he’d have to tell her the details later as Cassian would likely arrive before he could finish the story.

“He’s too sweet,” Gwyn sat on the same side as Azriel and held her dress as she placed her legs over his lap. “Do we look cozy enough?” She smiled up at him, her teal eyes bright enough that Azriel nearly forgot about the male that was about to interrupt them.

“Come here,” he said, his voice lower than usual. His arm wrapped around her back to pull her closer, and Gwyn placed a soft kiss on his jaw while his other hand came to rest on her knee to tuck her into his body.

“You fucking asshole!” Cassian seethed as he got to the booth moments later. “I’m going to kill you for this.” He stood with all his might in his scaled armor, as if he’d really been prepared to fight a male.

“Hi Cassian,” Gwyn said sweetly. “How was your night?”

“How was my night?” He glared at her and Azriel. “I was worried sick you fucking idiots!” His voice rose to a yell. “Did you really think letting me believe Gwyn was alone with a stranger would be funny? I mean how could you—”

His rant stopped the moment Gwyn tilted her head up and kissed Azriel. The shadowsinger paid Cassian no mind, cupping her cheek and humming at the sweet taste of wine on her lips.

“Sorry,” Gwyn smiled once they parted and tucked a strand of hair behind her ear. “You were saying?”

“I hate you guys,” he whispered, clenching his fists as he fought to keep the smile of his face.

“And I hate you being such a busybody,” Azriel shrugged and earned an eyeroll.

“If it helps Cass,” Gwyn said before he could get mad at Azriel again. “Your reaction is really sweet, and things like you showing up here is the reason all the priestesses feel safe training with you.”

He opened his mouth to reply, closed it and tried again before taking a deep breath. “Goodnight.” Was all the general said through gritted teeth before turning on his heels and striding out of the restaurant.

Gwyn giggled just as Azriel laughed, his shadows curling around his ear to relay Cassian’s reaction out of the bar. He was stomping home, his footsteps so loud on the street someone glanced out of their window to see what was happening. For a second, Azriel worried that he was actually mad, but a moment later his shadows reported Cassian wiping at his eyes, as if he were crying over his friends finally getting together.

“He’s such a sweetheart, I feel bad,” Gwyn rested her head on Azriel’s shoulder as he repeated everything his shadows told him.

“He’ll be fine,” the shadowsinger brushed his lips over her forehead. “He’s flying home now.”

“Should we go too?”

Azriel grinned. “Eager to get into my bed, Berdara?”

“Absolutely.”

#acotarwritingcircle #gwynriel fanfiction #gwynriel #gwynriel fic #pro gwynriel #gwyneth berdara #acotar azriel #gwyn x azriel #gwynriel fluff #azriel x gwyn #gwynriel fanfic

[vulpes-fennec]

Shadows Tell Me (If He Really Cares) (1/4)

Summary: For someone whose job title is “spymaster of the Night Court”, Azriel Shadowsinger is surprisingly oblivious to Gwyneth Berdara’s heavy-handed flirtation this Winter Solstice season (or is he?). What will it take for these bumbling fools to get together before the night ends? A mish-mash of Gwynriel holiday fluff (set post-ACOSF).

A gift for @shadowsxgwynriel via @acotargiftexchange!! It was a pleasure getting to know you!! Merry Christmas from Santa!!

Notes: I made a Youtube playlist to go with this fic! I’m sorry I could not fulfill the request for fan art/edits, I simply do not know how to draw, photoshop, or video edit. Please accept this humble playlist as a bonus. 

Read: AO3

🎄Two weeks before Solstice🎄

It was technically Emerie’s idea to create Solstice bags for the Illyrian children at Windhaven, but it was Cassian who was most enthused about the whole premise. ‘Twas the night before the event, so the little group of friends were merrily working on the treat bags up in the House of Wind. The group sat cross-legged on soft rugs and pillows, the red walls and golden faelight keeping them cozy on such a cold winter night.

They worked industriously: Emerie putting in the wool socks, Mor the beeswax candle, Gwyn the candies, Nesta the mittens, and Cassian the colored pencils into the burlap bags. The treat bags were tied off with pretty ribbons and adorned with a holly branch.

A draft blew in as Azriel walked into the room. The shadowsinger’s onyx black hair and Illyrian leathers were dusted with snow, indicating he’d returned from a colder climate. “Az, come help us!” Mor called cheerfully. 

Azriel cocked his head curiously at the group. “Solstice treat bags?” he asked quietly. 

“Yes,” replied Nesta. “Lend Gwyn a hand. She’s holding up the flow.” 

“Am not!” Gwyn threw a chocolate across the circle at Nesta, who easily caught it in her mouth. Azriel’s hazel eyes darted to Gwyn, his brows raising slightly at the pretty priestess in her snug wool robes. 

“Let me change first,” was all he said. When Azriel returned wearing a fitted gray shirt and soft black pants, Gwyn couldn’t help noticing how his clothes clung to defined abdominal muscles, how nicely shaped his ass was, or how his magnificent wings flared as he walked. 

“You and me both, Gwyn,” Cassian quipped, noticing her gawking. Gwyn quickly tore her eyes away from Azriel’s impressive physique. 

“What?” Azriel demanded as he wedged himself between Gwyn and Mor. Shadows wreathed his arms like wisps of smoke, two of them darting out to peek at what Gwyn was doing. 

“You have a nice rear end, Az,” Cassian smirked. Azriel rolled his eyes and calmly sipped from the cup he was holding. 

“Yeah, we were just admiring the view,” Gwyn added with a smile. Azriel choked and sputtered, his face red. 

“I’m the Night Court’s spymaster, not eye candy” Azriel grumbled in response. “Hand over the peppermints, you little pervert.” Gwyn grinned cheekily, dragging the heavy sack of hard candies over to him. 

“That smells good!” She scooted close to Azriel, pressing her knee against his and peering into his cup. “What are you drinking? Can I have a sip?” 

“It’s green tea. You can have some.” Azriel handed Gwyn his mug, keeping his knee pressed against her’s. He watched the priestess closely as she blew softly on the steaming liquid.  

“It’s nice. Thanks!” Gwyn went back to dishing candies into the little bags. Azriel nodded, his face neutral as he sipped tea from the same spot Gwyn’s soft lips were just on. 

Across the circle, Nesta and Cassian were watching the little interaction like hawks. The mated pair gave each other pointed looks and smirked. “Ahem,” Cassian snickered, failing to hide his grin. 

Azriel’s blasé expression dropped at his brother’s teasing. The shadowsinger leaned back so that Gwyn could not see him glaring at Cassian. Shut up, he mouthed, his face turning red again. Cassian’s grin only grew wider. Gwyn, seemingly oblivious, hummed softly beside Azriel as she dropped chocolates into the bags.

Of course, Gwyn knew perfectly well what was going on. She was hypersensitive to everything the spymaster did. She knew his breakfast routine (tea first, eggs, then toast with a bit of jam), knew what color his wings were (dusky brown, amber red in the daylight), felt him blink, felt him sigh… 

What started as a little crush several months ago spiraled out of control into…well, insanity.

Gwyn was familiar with crushes; she had crushes before on several Sangravah regulars and males in the next town over. But when she looked at Azriel, she could hardly breathe. Surely other people didn’t notice the hues of emerald and gold in his hazel eyes every time Azriel looked at them, right? Surely the other priestesses didn’t feel electricity through their veins whenever he brushed by them, right? 

It was absurd, the way he plagued her thoughts day and night. When it was just the two of them talking late into the night, she felt he knew her better than anyone else. Better than Nesta, Emerie, and even Catrin. When he was away on missions, her anxiety for his safety would keep her up all night and she always said an extra blessing to the Mother for his survival. 

And when Gwyn’s pale fingers brushed against Azriel’s scarred ones as she passed him a bag, neither of them flinched. After Sangravah, Gwyn thought she would never be able to stomach physical contact from males ever again. But touching Azriel and being close to him always made her feel alive. Yep. This is utter insanity. 

“Anyways…” Cassian began, trying to hold back his chuckles. “Balthazar says he convinced several Illyrians at his war camp to create Solstice treat bags for the children as well. Your ideas are taking off, Emerie.” The general had been in regular contact with the Illyrian male who helped Nesta and Emerie during the Blood Rite.  

“That’s good to hear,” Emerie sighed worriedly. “I hope this works out.” 

“It will. It’s a great way to foster holiday cheer and friendship,” Mor assured Emerie. “I had a last minute idea. What if we prepared warm cider, snacks, and games for the children” 

“I’d like that,” Emerie nodded shyly. Now it was Gwyn and Nesta who exchanged a knowing smirk. Mor had been showing up to more and more training sessions lately, and it certainly wasn’t to spend time with Cassian and Azriel. 

“Great! I can bring the supplies when I take you back to Windhaven.” The two females began chatting animatedly about treats the Illyrian children would like most. 

Sangravah was the last time Gwyn truly interacted with children, and she wondered where they were now. If they had any recollection of that horrible night. How they were adjusting, three years later. Shadows glided towards her like concerning mother hens. You good? Azriel’s hazel eyes seemed to ask as he noticed the shadows’ behavior. 

“So I was wondering,” Emerie broke in, “Azriel, would you like to join us in handing out the bags to the children tomorrow?” 

“Probably not. I have some reports I need to write up for Rhys,” he replied casually. The shadows returned to swarming Azriel’s face. 

As if, Gwyn thought. Azriel is hardly the procrastinator. She was well aware Azriel avoided Windhaven because of his dislike for his own people. Held captive by his father, burned by his own brothers, mistreated due to his bastard status…he wanted little to do with the Illyrians despite the cobalt siphons he wore and the tattoos inked into his skin. 

“Gwyn, how about you?” 

Remember what happened the last time you went to Windhaven? The anxiety in her head whispered. Gwyn shoved the brutal memories away. No. She would succeed in breaking out of her comfort zone. If she could go to Nesta and Cassian’s mating ceremony at the River House and visit the Velaris Harvest Festival, she could pass out Solstice treat bags to children.

Cassian and Mor are experienced warriors…they wouldn’t let anything happen to me. And it’s not living if I always take the safe road, Gwyn told herself. I am the rock against which the surf crashes, and I will not be broken. “I’d like to go,” she answered resolutely. “It would be nice to interact with some children again!” 

🎄The next day🎄

Liar, liar, shadowsinger. You don’t have any reports to write. Join them tomorrow. You know you want to see our priestess. Why do you deny yourself so? 

Azriel’s shadows pestered him all night with incessant whispering until he finally relented. He winnowed into Windhaven shortly after Gwyn and Nesta left, landing just outside of Emerie’s clothing store without a sound. A crowd of Illyrian children had already gathered in front of several tables laden with snacks and games. 

His shadows wiggled with glee at the sight of Gwyn standing several yards away, but Azriel promptly dispatched half of them on surveillance duty. They sulkily flew off. 

Having female Blood Rite champions—two Carynthian and one Oristian—could draw the wrong sort of crowd. The Valkyries had significantly improved their combat skills since the spring, but he was not taking any chances. And Gwyn was clearly apprehensive about returning to Windhaven. Azriel knew his—the—priestess put on a brave face, but extra protection to make her feel more comfortable wouldn’t hurt.

“I thought you weren’t coming, Az!” Gwyn’s pretty teal eyes held no sign of nervousness as she walked up to him. The priestess had left her robes behind for a wool shirt, thick jacket, and pants. The Valkyrie ribbon fluttered around her arm, and Azriel could spy the faint outline of a dagger under her jacket. Gwyn handed him a cup of steaming cider, which he gratefully took. The blistering winds of the Illyrian Steppes were no joke, and he appreciated every bit of warmth he got. 

Azriel shrugged. “I figured you’d need someone to keep the children from beating each other up for the Solstice bags,” he joked wryly. “How are you doing?” 

“I’m alright,” she replied. Azriel detected only honesty in her tone. “I thought it would be scary coming back, but the camp is actually very quaint during the day. Having the children around certainly helps.” 

“Quaint is…generous,” he muttered, running a hand through his onyx hair. There were only sparse buildings and a cruel wilderness around them. Windhaven was a bittersweet memory for him. It was where he’d escaped his barbaric father and found a true family with Rhys and Cassian. But on the other hand, it was a place of countless brutal fights, of jeers at his scarred hands and his inability to fly as an Illyrian male. 

“Did you finish writing your reports?” Gwyn asked. The wind whipped her coppery red hair in her face, and Azriel’s fingers itched to tuck the wayward strands behind her pointed ear. 

“Yeah. Stayed up all night to finish them up,” Azriel replied casually. 

“I’m glad you’re here,” Gwyn said with a small smile. “I’m sure the children will appreciate it.” 

“Sure,” Azriel scoffed. “The children are all scared of me.”  

The Valkyrie wrinkled her nose like a bunny. Cute, Azriel thought distractedly, vaguely aware that he was staring at Gwyn openly. “Why would they be scared of you?” 

“Good morning, boys and girls!” Emerie interrupted their conversation, clapping her hands to get the rowdy younglings’ attention. The female, with her white Valkyrie ribbon braided into her brown hair, stood tall in her Illyrian training leathers. Making a clear political statement to those around her. “My name is Emerie, and I’m so glad you’re here today! Are we ready to have some fun?”

A chorus of yes, Emerie echoed across the crowd. Azriel had never seen the Illyrian children so excited. A good mix of boys and girls, ranging from the ages of five to thirteen, made up the sea of black hair, warm brown skin, and chubby cheeks. Small leathery wings, with nubby claws on top, excitedly bobbed and flapped. 

It was clear who the bastard children were: their faces more gaunt, they sported more visible injuries, and their clothes were threadbare. Azriel’s throat tightened with emotion. I used to be like one of them, he recalled. I wonder if any of them will make it out of this hellish place.

“I need you all to form a line, and take one Solstice bag each!” Emerie continued to announce. “If I catch any whiff of fighting or stealing each others’ treats, we won’t be having treats next year! Is that understood?” Another series of yes, Emerie floated up from the crowd as the younglings eagerly made their way towards the table. 

“They’re so cute,” Gwyn leaned over and whispered to Azriel. Her eyes twinkled with affection. “Look at their little wings! I can’t believe you and Cassian were once so small.” 

Azriel chuckled. “Don’t be fooled. Illyrian children are mischievous little devils, Berdara.” 

“Are you speaking from experience, Shadowsinger?” she teased. 

“I’ll have you know I was the do-gooder out of our trio. It was mostly Cassian getting in trouble for stupid shit.”

“Of course it was Cassian. What did I expect?” The priestess laughed softly. “I’m going to go help Emerie and Nesta with the treat bags. See you later, shadowsinger.” 

Azriel forced himself to look away from Gwyn’s retreating form. He glanced at Cassian, whose rugged face was gentle as he spoke to the bastard children. The general even allowed them to touch his glowing red Siphons. Across the way, Emerie moved with new confidence while regaling children with stories of her training. While some younglings looked nervous, many others—especially the bastard children and girls—gazed at their general and Valkyrie in awe. 

Azriel did not do well with children. He hadn’t a clue how to interact with them, thanks to his formative years being locked away in his father’s dungeon. He couldn’t joke around like Cassian, couldn’t smile freely like Mor. He didn’t command their attention like Rhys. Every interaction with children felt awkward and fake. And it didn’t help that the children were afraid of him, drawing back from his scarred hands and the razor sharp Truth-Teller strapped to his hip. 

So he joined Mor at the table to assist with ladling cups of cider and doling out baked sweets. To his surprise, most of the children hung around, chatting with each other and playing games on the ground. Perhaps some things had changed in the last 500 years. The children seemed to have more camaraderie with each other; their faces were kinder, their actions more courteous. Smiles and gleeful laughter were also a pleasant change of scene from the stony-faced war lords he was so used to seeing. 

“Az, can you help bring more treat bags from inside Emerie’s shop?” Mor asked him. “We’re running low up front.” 

“Sure.” Azriel broke away from the hubbub, ducking into the tidy clothing store to grab a stack of crates from behind the counter. When he walked back out, he was greeted by Gwyn’s melodic giggle. 

Gwyn was surrounded by a gaggle of younglings. The beautiful priestess had stooped down so that she was eye-level with a boy of no more than nine. The timid look in his hazel eyes and the bashful tuck of his velvet wings reminded Azriel so much of his younger self, when Rhys and Cassian initially took him in. And to see Gwyn approaching the child with such open gentleness made something in Azriel’s heart crack. 

One moment he was staring at Gwyn handing the gift bag to the boy with a charming smile. The next moment he walked right into the display table. 

Crash! His shadows scattered in every direction to save the crates of goodies that had gone flying into the air. Not a single one of them cared about Azriel tangling himself in the tablecloth and slamming into the cold ground. 

Total silence ensued as the children gawked in disbelief. The graceful spymaster of the Night Court had taken a clumsy tumble, which was something they didn’t see every day. Azriel could feel his face heating up as he picked himself up hastily, shaking off his injured pride with a quick ruffle of his membranous wings. Fuck. Gwyn must’ve seen everything. 

Several of the children began to giggle, breaking the silence. “Are you alright, Az?” Mor worriedly asked him as she reset the table with a wave of a hand. 

“Yes,” he muttered, shooting a glare at his shadows. Little traitors. Gwyn was hurrying over, a hand over her mouth doing a poor job of hiding her smile. 

“You’re never going to live that down, are you?” Azriel grumbled at the laughter in her eyes.

“Oh no, of course not. And I see where your shadows’ priorities lie.” Gwyn nodded at the unscathed crates of Solstice treat bags. She pulled a handkerchief out. “You have a bit of dirt on your face.” She reached up to gently wipe away the smudge on Azriel’s cheek, showing him the smudge on the white cloth.

 “Thank you,” he murmured, feeling his skin awaken at her close proximity. All he could smell was Gwyn’s lovely scent of fresh books and lilies. 

A little girl standing next to Gwyn curiously looked up at Azriel. “Gwyn, is the spymaster your boyfriend?” the child asked innocently. The children around them perked up, glancing at the two of them with renewed interest.

Gwyn brushed off the question with an awkward laugh. “Oh, no. Mr. Azriel is just a good friend.” 

Just a friend. Who knew such soft words could crush his heart so mercilessly? 

Azriel wasn’t sure what he was expecting. They were friends, after all. Still, after several weeks of Gwyn’s flirty comments and deliberate touches, he thought she harbored some stronger affections for him. Thought there was some undeniable chemistry and magic between them.

It was flirting, right? Or was it just his wishful thinking? 

Azriel was distinctly aware of his shadows mournfully keening by his ears. She does not love us, shadowsinger, they wailed. Our priestess only sees us as friends! 

Oh, be quiet, Azriel admonished them silently. We are lucky Gwyn considers me her friend. 

“Really?” the little girl asked again. “Then why is he blushing?” 

Gods, were children normally so…blunt? The little girl stared up at him with a challenging look in her hazel eyes. Azriel crossed his arms over his chest and stared back with an equally disgruntled expression. The little girl clearly had the Valkyrie spirit, because she shrugged and walked away.  “It seems your fearsome reputation does not extend to all children,” Gwyn laughed.

Read: Chapter 2

#gwynriel #gwyn berdara #azriel shadowsinger #gwynriel fanfiction #gwynriel fluff #acotar gift exchange #acotar secret santa #acotar solstice #acotar secret santa 2022

[velidewrites]

22 Gwynriel 👀

22 - “I’m sorry, but that was not my fault.”

"You're late. Again," Gwyn's voice sounded from the training pit.

Catching a glimpse of shining copper, his shadows peered up, swirling around his body in an attempt to get him closer to the sight. "I'm sorry, but last time was not my fault," he said, meeting her gaze at last as he reached the pit's centre. "You know I got stuck chaperoning our lovely friends."

She angled her head, teal eyes narrowing in a way he knew could only mean trouble. "And tonight?"

He couldn't help but smirk, his eyes mimicking the movement of her own. "Spymaster duty," he only offered, earning a hum of disapproval from the priestess.

Taking a step closer, Gwyn pointed a finger to his chest, the tip of her digit lightly grazing against the black leathers. "Not good enough, shadowsinger. Need I remind you that your duty is also to train me? You committed to this, you know," she drew back, crossing her arms—a clear signal of her indignation that did nothing to hide the amusement glittering in her stare. "I expect you to show up at the agreed upon time."

Azriel chuckled. "Yes, my lady."

He tried to ignore the soft blush rising through her cheeks at the endearment. "I'm no lady," she murmured, and before he could help it, one of his shadows shot down to her chin, lifting it gently so that her teal eyes could meet his own.

Making sure his tone was as unyielding as the words forged within his heart, Azriel said, "You are. In more ways than you think. But more importantly, you are a warrior, Gwyn. And a great one at that," he added, tilting his head to the side at her stunned silence. Reaching to where his shadow had rested, his strong fingers cupped her chin, feeling something glow in his chest as her features brightened up at the touch.

With a smile blooming over his lips, Azriel asked, "So let's get to our training, shall we?"

Gwyn's lips curled up in a wicked grin. "We shall."

#some angsty/soft gwynriel #hope you enjoy #gwynriel #azriel x gwyn #pro gwynriel #gwyneth berdara #gwyn acotar #gwyn acosf #azriel shadowsinger #azriel acotar #azriel acosf #gwynriel fic #gwynriel drabble #gwynriel fanfiction #gwynriel fluff #acotar fic #acotar #acotar ask game #my asks

[az-cain]

i wrote this in like january and posted it but ?? idk where it went so here

On My Knees

azriel x reader ≈ 458 words masterlist here

rated g, nothing 18+ but my blog in general is so :) if you’re a minor, interact w this and nothing else. thanks! just some gwynriel fluff

—

The door creaked open quietly, stirring Azriel from his sickly rest on the bed. He turned onto his side, head throbbing and body aching, and let out a wretched cough. He rolled drowsily out of bed, moving as slowly as possible to avoid aggravating his headache.

Gwyn entered the room, kicking her shoes off and scouring his face and body, undoubtedly seeing the lethargy with which he sighed and reached his arms out to her like a child asking to be picked up.

She shuffled over to him and wrapped his arms around her shoulders, grabbing his torso and squeezing tightly the way he liked. A cough wracked his whole body, and he let out a quiet whine. Gwyn traced her finger along his back, muttering praise and affection. His heart throbbed as she called him by his name, telling him she was there for him.

He knew that she was here for him, of course. But the reassurance made him feel all the worse because he felt that he was undeserving of her time, her affection. Tears streaked down his face, more coughs wracking his chest and ravaging his throat, only making more tears fall into Gwyn’s coppery hair. She pulled her head back, face scrunched up in concern. A pale spotted hand reached slowly up to stroke away the tears on his swollen, snotty face. His lips shook, nose making a wet sound when he sucked in. They both laughed quietly as Azriel realized just how much he loved her.

In reality, he’d known for months now, but he’d been terrified to admit it to himself or to her, out of a fear that he would realize the commitment of those three words and run.

Maybe he actually realized that he would never run from her, from her love, from committing his whole immortal life to her. He would never leave her side, if that’s what she requested of him.

Gwyn rested her chin on his chest, looking up at him with those beautiful round eyes. Slowly, she tilted her head into his chest, gripping him tighter.

“I love you, Azriel,” she muttered almost inaudibly.

His heart stuttered, legs failing him. He fell weakly to his knees, tears once again pouring from his eyes, sobs mixing with hacking coughs. He pressed kisses to her belly, muttering how much he loved her, how much she mattered to him. Gwyn then dropped to her knees as well, taking his head and burying it in her shoulder and wrapping her arms around his shoulders. Soft sobs shook her body as well, one hand stroking his hair while the other remained grappled in his shirt. She muttered “I love you” like a prayer, again, and again, and again, and again.

masterlist here

#gwynriel fics #gwyn x azriel #azriel x gwyn #gwyn berdara #gwyneth berdara #azriel fluff #gwynriel fluff #az writes

[skyjasper]

Imagine Being Loved By Me

Gwynriel: Talk by Hozier

COMPLETELY INSPIRED BY @avabrynne !!!

This idea comes completely from @avabrynne !! Great thanks to her for letting me use this prompt!!!

Masterlist

Summary: Gwyn and Azriel had been tiptoeing around her connection for almost a year now. The night before summer solstice the group goes out to Rita’s. Things finally snap for them when Azriel sings her a song.

Warnings: light NSFW, other than that nothing!! Complete fluff!!

Word count:3270

~~~

It was the week of summer solstice which meant the glorious city of Velaris was bustling with parties and celebrations. Gwyn had been comfortable enough to start going out with her girls and the inner circle by last winter solstice after Nesta and Cassian got together.

So here she sat in Nesta's room getting ready with Mor, Emerie, Nesta, and Feyre. She sat on the bed watching as Nesta moved her hair into a lovely ponytail. Nesta's eyes met hers through the mirror.

“Come on Gwyn, let's find you a dress, Mor can you do her makeup?” She turned to the blonde and waited for a nod before walking off to her wardrobe. Gwyn moved into the stool that sat in front of Nesta's vanity, staring at Mor evaluating her.

“Let’s make you irresistible, maybe you’ll find a lovely suitor.” Mor’s brows wiggled with intention as Gwyn’s cheeks flushed.

She didn’t tell anyone about her small crush on the court's shadow singer, nor did she tell anyone about their midnight training sessions. She nodded her head to Mor with a smile.

“Oh, I haven’t even thought about that. Where are we even going tonight?” She asked as Mor applied a Smokey line of Khol to her eyes.

“Rita’s is having a live singing night tonight so we are going to go and force the boys to sing,” Feyre spoke from her spot next to Gwyn.

“All the boys?” She poked her head to look at Feyre before Mor grabbed her chin to guide her back to where she needed.

“That’s the goal!” Feyre's happy voice chipped.

“I found the perfect dress!” Nesta shouted before coming out of her closet with a mid-length silk dress that was the same shade of blue as her priestess robes. A gorgeous number that had Gwyn melting at the idea of wearing such a delicate piece on her body.

“That’s gorgeous Nes, I can’t possibly take that from you.” She whispered as if her voice would hurt the dress.

“Gwyn, I don’t even know why I have this dress, it certainly is not my color.” Nesta shrugged before moving to place the dress over a chair.

“Hey, Gwyn?” Emorie came to sit next to the nymph.

“Yes Em?”

“You remember when we went and you bought those lacy underthings even though you knew you weren’t gonna wear them?” She whispered only loud enough for the two of them to hear.

“Yes, I got them because they gave me power over myself, even though I have no reason to wear them they make me feel pretty,” Gwyn responded, currently applying a reddish-pinkish colored lip salve.

“Well… they would be perfect to wear under this dress.” Emorie shrugged. Gwyn paused, contemplating it, after a hesitant moment she nodded and stood to ask the house to retrieve them.

Once she was in the bathroom with the dress and her underthings she quickly changed. She pulled on the light blue lacy underthings before slipping on the matching slip for it. She took a second to observe herself in the mirror, reminding herself of her affirmations. I am the rock against which the surf crashes. Nothing can break me.

She pulled on the tight piece of silk, marveling at how it hugged her form to her waist before slightly tapering out into a lovely flowing skirt. The neckline was something she hadn’t seen before, the fabric was rippled in a purposeful way to look like loose silk when in fact it was not. It gave her a sight of her cleavage, her breasts were not large but they were at least a handful. The skirt had a dangerously high slight that came to rest at mid-thigh. As she laced the back her waist became more accentuated.

Gwyn took a second to take in the sight of herself and how beautiful she looked. The light blue- almost iridescent- silk showed off her slight tan from training and her vibrant hair. Even her freckles seemed more prominent.

“You ok in there Gwyn?” Nesta's voice asked, laden with concern from the other side of the door. Gwyn walked over to the door and opened it.

“Yeah, I’m ok. Are you sure this dress isn’t too much for tonight?” Gwyn asked shyly.

“No this is perfect! You look gorgeous Gwyn! Let’s do your hair.” Came Feyres voice from behind Nesta who was still staring at Gwyn with her jaw open.

“You look absolutely stunning Gwinnie. I know a certain male who is going to explode when he sees you.” Nesta told her while pulling her back to the vanity.

Gwyn took a second to mull over Nesta's words as one of the girls put two thin braids in her hair at the front before pulling it up into a ponytail, one braid running on each side.

“Who do you mean Nes?” Gwyn finally found the courage to ask, hoping she doesn’t sound as hopeful as she is.

“Oh come on Gwyn, we all know the shadow singer holds a certain appreciation for you, we see the way he looks at you. And those midnight training sessions, he’s never done that with anyone.” Mor spoke from behind her as she applied perfume oils to her skin.

“Wh-what, I don’t know what you are on about. Az and I are certainly just friends.” Gwyn blushed at the implication.

“If that’s what you think.” Emorie chuckled.

~~~

More and Feyre winnowed all of them to Rita’s. The girls ordered a round of drinks while waiting for the males. Not five seconds after their drinks were in hand did they hear the unmistakable sound of Cassian’s laugh.

They all turned towards the sound, finding Rhys dressed in his normal dress pants and a button-down, Cassain in typical pants and a loose top. Gwen slightly choked on her drink when her gaze ran across Azriel, he was hardly ever seen outside of his leathers, but tonight he wore black tight jeans and a black shirt that hugged his muscles, his wings standing proud and his black hair a bit messy. He looked more than edible, and when his gaze found Gwyn staring her cheeks blushed.

Azriel was the first to move towards them, his head dipping in acknowledgment to the girls before his eyes raked over Gwyn's form. His gaze moved down her body slowly, taking in each and every element of the gorgeous nymph. Azriel had always been attracted to Gwyneth and not just her beautiful looks but her intelligence as well. She was the only one who matched him, who challenged him in all ways, intellectually, in the ring, and all other aspects. Gwyn never failed to turn every interaction into a game.

When he finally came face to face with Gwyn he could only think of one thing to say.

“You look absolutely stunning, Gwyneth.”

A blush quickly rose on her already pink cheeks, her entire neck now heating at his compliment.

“You as well Shadow singer. I don’t think I’ve ever seen you outside of your leathers.” She smiled at him, not noticing her friends staring at the two of them. Azriels eyes slightly widened at her words, taking them in a different way.

“Not like that Az!” Gwyn laughed out. “I just meant you are always wearing your leathers, I’ve never seen you in casual clothing. It looks good.” She explained herself as the left side of his lips twitched.

“I understand Berdara.” He shook his head. He leaned over Gwen’s small form to get the bartender’s attention.

Gwen’s eyes stuck to his chest and his very prominent pecs. She turned her head to the girls before sliding out from under the shadow singer, reaching out and hugging Cassian.

“Gwinnie.” He shouted before patting her head.

“Cass.” She laughed, “Have you already had some drinks?”

“Oh absolutely, Rhys and I finished a good bit of scotch, Azzie insisted on being sober until we got here.” He continued before moving over to his wife and mate, whispering something in her ear that made her blush.

Gwyn said her hellos to the high lord before they all moved to find a booth tucked away somewhere. They all moved in, Feyre and Rhys on the innermost part, on their right were Nesta and Cassian, and on their left were Emorie and Mor, which left Gwyn and Az to sit together. He stood to the side waiting for her to slide into the booth.

She felt his gaze on her back, by now she had already finished her first drink and was feeling the effects of it. Her skin flushed with the heat of the alcohol, her grace already a bit more clumsy. Gwyneth Berdara was and always had been a lightweight.

Azriel slid in next to her, his thigh meeting hers. His shadows slid over her legs and up one of her arms, curling themselves around her as they always do in her presence. Her light giggle hit him hard. He turned his head to find her playing with the shadows as they moved all over her arms.

“Ok, shall we kick this night off with some singing?!” Mor clapped from her seat, startling Gwyn.

“Who’s first?” Feyre asked, looking around the table.

“Gwyn should go first. I’d kill to hear your voice again.” Azriel muttered the last part only loud enough for her to hear.

“Oh no, I’m already tipsy. I don't think it’d be that good.” She chuckled nervously, silently praying to the mother it wouldn’t have to be her.

“I’ll save you Gwinnie, I’ll go first. Don’t fret you’re next Gwinnie.” Cassian rumbled, trying and almost failing to stand and get out of the booth.

Cass semi-stumbled his way to the stage, asking for the projecting device and introducing himself. Rita’s erupted in cheers as Cassian started to sing a newer song about senseless love and nonsense. Something that Bryce chick had taught him.

“Gwyneth…” Azriel drew in a whisper, “Why wouldn’t you sing? You have a beautiful voice.”

“I am not nearly drunk enough to sing in front of all of these people. Maybe later tonight.” She shrugged in response, turning her head towards the shadow singer, not realizing how close he was.

“Speaking of, would you be a doll and go get me a new drink Azzie.” She mocked Cassian’s use of the nickname.

He chuckled and nodded before slipping out of the booth, walking with his head high through the crowd, power radiating off his body. When she turned back into the booth she saw Nesta and Feyre staring at her.

“What?”

“What?!” Feyre mocked. “I don’t think I’ve ever seen Azriel give this many smiles in public before.” She said, sipping on her drink.

“Oh hush, he’s just comfortable because he’s around his family.” Gwyn lied smoothly. “Plus maybe it’s just because I’m that funny” She mockingly flipped her ponytail, freezing when she felt it his something, or someone.

She turned and saw Az standing there with two drinks and a raised eyebrow looking down at her. Azriel had always towered over Gwyn but with her sitting in the low booth and him standing she was face to face with his stomach. She winced before scooting over to let him in.

“Hush.” She muttered before taking her drink out of his hand and chugging it.

“At this rate, you’ll be drunker than Cassian in no time,” Emorie spoke from her side of the table.

“Maybe I need to be so you all will be somewhat tolerable.” She replied with a thick layer of sass. Rhysand let out a deep chuckle, turning back to Feyre as they engaged in a silent conversation.

She felt a large hand run over the length of her ponytail, toying with the ends. She turned to look at the shadow singer as he stared at her.

“Can I help you?” Her eyebrow hiked up as his hand glided over the back of her neck, resting there as if it were normal.

“If I sing will you?” His deep voice asked, sending shivers through Gwen’s body.

She was speechless, Azriel had only ever sung for her once, granted his voice was beautiful, but he had said he doesn’t often do it in front of people.

“I suppose that is a fair deal. But first, since Cassian is finally done torturing the crowd with his voice let’s dance!” She clapped, standing quickly and swaying from the rush. Azriel’s scarred hands found themselves on her waist to help stabilize her. She smiled down at him before forcing everyone else to dance.

The song was something upbeat and fun, after Bryce had left to fight her war she came back with a gift, the swords, and these things called speakers that connected to one of her phones, she had also given them a large amount of batteries so it would last them while they studied the devices to replicate them. It made them all quite happy to have a new form of music, though some people were skeptical.

Gwyn grabbed Azriel’s hand and dragged him to the area of people dancing. She was a giggling, bubbly mess, and the shadow singer loved it. He had never seen her so unrestrained, save for their conversations while no one was around. Azriel cherished those conversations, he replayed them constantly in his hand, his heart fluttering at the memory of her bright smiles and sassy jokes.

With all regard abandoned Gwyneth danced, moving her body in a way that wasn’t meant to be sensual, but to the intoxicated shadow singer, was so enchanting. His shadows whispered to him about holding her ponytail around his fist as he thrust into her from behind, or about sliding the top of her dress down and watching her beautiful breast bounce. He quickly shook his head to rid himself of the thoughts and mask his scent. He didn’t used to have fantasies about Gwyn, but recently most of his nights are spent in a cold bath.

Azriel did not dance, he stood there like a guard to Gwyn, and when she noticed she stopped dancing. She moved her way to Azriel, wrapping her arms around her neck to raise herself to his ear.

“Why aren’t you dancing Azriel?” Her sultry voice spoke into his ear. Azriel stifled a groan at the sound of his name out of her mouth.

“I don’t dance, you know that Gwyneth.” He responded, placing his hands back on her hips to keep her steady.

“But Az…” she whined, dragging out the Z in his name, sending truly impure thoughts into his filthy brain.

“Gwyneth.” He spoke curtly with a voice so low she thought she might be imagining it.

He placed her on the floor before looking up, trying to regain his composure and restraint. He let go of her before walking up to the stage. He looked back at Gwyn and watched as her eyes widened as he took the amplifier.

He waited for the crowd to calm down before starting without any music.

I'd be the voice that urged Orpheus

When her body was found,

Gwyn stared at him as his beautiful voice started to sing a song she hadn’t heard before.

I'd be the choiceless hope in grief

That drove him underground,

Gwyn felt Nesta slide next to her, also completely enamored by Azriel's voice.

I'd be the dreadful need in the devotee

That made him turn around,

“How did you convince him to sing?” She whispered, barely audible, so as to not disturb the delicate song.

And I'd be the immediate forgiveness

In Eurydice.

“I didn’t.” She responded, making eye contact with Nesta as he sang the next line.

Imagine being loved by me!

Gwyn felt something pool inside of her stomach. She had spent many late nights in the bathing chambers, pleasuring herself to the thought of the shadow singer.

I won't deny I've got in my mind now all the things we'd do

So I'll try to talk refined for fear that you find out how I'm imaginin' you

Not once did Azriels gaze stray from Gwyn, not as he watched every emotion fly across her face, or as the heat rose in her cheeks at the implication of the words he sang.

He moved on to the next line as Gwyn stood there staring back at him. Suddenly, as he reached the end of the last verse, everyone else disappeared. It was just her and him as he wholeheartedly sang the words.

I won't deny I've got in my mind now all the things I would do

So I'll try to talk refined for fear that you find out how I'm imaginin' you

Azriel watched as realization flicked upon Gwyn's eyes. Her chest and neck started to flush the same color as her cheeks. The same flush he had imagined in his mind as he stared up at her from between her legs.

Gwyn's eyes flicked back over Azriels form as she realized he was single-handedly singing to her. Heat raked through her as she recalled the lyrics.

“I’ll be back Nesta.” She whispered breathlessly, turning and walking quickly to the back hall where there was an exit into the alleyway.

She rested her head against the brick wall, her heart beating wildly and her breath completely gone. She closed her eyes as she ran back through all of their interactions, screaming at herself for being so naive and blind.

She opened her eyes as she heard the door she came through open and close. Azriel was standing there, something like fear on his face as he waited for her response. All Gwyn could think to do was to walk up to him and kiss him.

Her arms flew around his neck as their kiss became hungry and passionate. Gwyn's hands found one of her thighs, pulling one leg up to his hip as he walked them so her back was against the wall. He broke the kiss, staring at her.

“Gwyneth.” He whispered.

“Azriel.” She whispered back, her lips ghosting against his. This time it was him smashing his lips to her, pushing her against the wall as one of his hands tangled itself in her ponytail.

“Wait. Gwyn, are you sure? Are you sure you want this? Us? I know I’m not the most honorable male, and I definitely don’t have a clean past.” He asked her.

“Azriel. I have wanted this since I cut that ribbon, I have wanted you since we started our training sessions and I found out just how beautiful your soul is. I don’t give a crap about your past, mine is definitely not clean. And those hands that you despise so much are the same hands that saved me, the same hands that taught me how to defend myself and reclaim my power, and hopefully the same hands that will make me cum.” She stared up at him as his hands flexed against her skin.

“Thank fucking gods, we can have a more meaningful conversation later, right now I just need to kiss you. Is that ok?” Before his sentence was fully out of his mouth Gwyn was nodding.

Azriel continued their kiss, pulling her leg tighter around his hips. The hand that was in her hair came down to her other thigh and tapped at it, signaling for her to jump. They were both breathless as they broke the kiss.

“Thank you, Gwyn.” He whispered, staring into her beautiful blue eyes.

“For what?”

“For showing me that I’m not ruined.” He smiled at her, a wide bright smile that carried across his whole face.

That damned dress.

~~~~

Note: I think this concept was so cute!!! I love writing Gwyriel!! Don’t worry I didn’t forget about the fics I promised!! They are coming, this was just my contribution to Gwynriel weeks!!

@gwynrielweeksofficial (their first kiss!!))

Taglist:

@littlelunatica @going-through-shit @annaaaaa88 @i-am-infinite @impossibelle

#gwynriel weeks 2024 #acotar #azriel #azriel x oc #elain archeron #feyre archeron #nesta archeron #sjmaas #azriel x reader #batboys #class of 2013 #fluff azriel #gwynriel #gwyneth berdara #pro gwynriel #anti elriel #feysand #rhysand #fanfic #cassian #illyrian #sarah j maas #sjm universe #what tags do i use

[dreamsandstars24]

🫖HUSH🫖

my little Gwynriel fic because I am listening to a House of Wind library ambience and it has teleported me to another realm. Just fluff because it's quick but my Valkyries are here and they make me soft. Anyway, enjoy!

Nesta, Emerie, and Gwyn were in the library. That had been as much as Azriel's shadows had reported to him before frantically going in the direction of the library. 

With a sight, with Rhys and Cassian behind him, he made his way to the library, fully aware of the quietness that was inside the place. Once he reached the closed doors, he knocked softly and opened the door, ready to go in, but the scene he found froze him in his spot, and a part of him noticed how his brothers stopped and took the scene in. 

For starters, the library had cushions everywhere of every colour with piles and piles of books filling the floor, teapots whistling softly on a small stove, and the three most feared Valkyries spread throughout the place. 

Nesta had found her place on the window, sitting on a cushion so big that it appeared as if it could swallow her. Her feet were tugged in under her, and a frown had been set on her brow as she read the book she was holding between her hands and supporting with her legs, the name of which was impossible for him to see. 

Emerie, on the other hand, was near the bookshelf. Her wings were relaxed, and the smell of floral oils seemed to emanate from her. She had a thick blanket covering her legs, but her feet peeked under it as a soft smile was plastered on her lips. 

When Azriel found Gwyn, he had the urge to laugh out loud. She was on the floor, lying on her back, as an invisible hand kept the book right on top of her. Her feet were moving happily, her hair like a valley of flowers under her hair and pooling on the floor, a soft blush on her cheeks as her lips moved quietly following her reading. 

With astonishment, he noticed how his shadows were moving around her, caressing her skin in subtle ways. Her fingers moved against them as if she could feel them between her hands. 

She looked peaceful. She looked beautiful. She looked safe. 

With his heart on his throat at the sensation of having witnessed something beautiful, he turned to his brothers, motioning for them to keep quiet with a finger on his lips. Both Cassian and Rhys nodded, their eyes soft as they stared at the females, who seemed at peace in their own space, undisturbed and happy in their quietness. 

Reluctantly, they moved out of the room and closed the door quietly behind them to not bother them. 

Azriel took a deep breath, taking in once again the petrichor smell that surrounded Gwyn, and stepped away, knowing she was safe. 

His shadows, however, stayed with her. Making sure she was safe, holding her in the way he secretly wished he could.

#gwynriel #nessian #emerie #nesta #gwyneth #azriel #rhysand #cassian #house of wind #mates #acotar #sjm #sjmaas #grwynriel fanfiction #fluff #short and sweet #gwyn x azriel #azriel x gwyn

[sunshinebingo]

@gwynrielweeksofficial Day 1 - Firsts

✨ Happy Gwynriel Weeks 2024 ✨

Synopsis: Gwyn musters up the courage to kiss the Shadowsinger.

Word Count: 1k

Read on Ao3

“I think the ending of the story could have been better…” Azriel explained.

“I see,” came out of Gwyn’s lips in response though her mind was thinking Do it.

“…but the characters are great,” he continued.

“Mhmm.”

Do it. I can’t. But I want to, her mind persisted.

Azriel kept giving his opinion about the book Gwyn had asked him to read a few days ago so they could discuss it together like they always did with every material that one recommended to the other. It was one of her favourite romance novels that she would recommend to anyone who was fond of the genre, or Spymasters who read romance only because their friends forced them to. But right now, Azriel could have been criticising it or ripping it to shreds that Gwyn would not have noticed.

“The main character is as stubborn as you. She is my favourite,” he said, the corners of his lips tugging into a smile. “I’d say my favourite parts are…”

Oh that smile. I want to taste it. I need to. Do it.

From the moment Azriel had started talking about that book, it had reminded Gwyn of all the time when she had read it too and had replaced the face of the love interest of the main character with that of Azriel. Hearing him talk of hand touches and secret rendezvous and stolen kisses was sending her mind into places she didn’t think he would be willing to follow. Gwyn had never been kissed before. And Mother above she wanted to know, for once in her life, what all the fuss was about. She wanted to know whether whatever fluttered inside her when she was near him would stop if she kissed him or whether the simple urge to kiss him would cease once she did it. She wondered if her eyes would finally stop being drawn to his lips.

If Azriel had not been looking at the novel that he was currently flipping through, he would have noticed that Gwyn was only half listening to what he was saying and that her gaze was glued onto his moving lips. He did, however, seem to notice that she was now much closer to him on the sofa than she was when they had sat down here some time ago.

“Berdara?” he asked as soon as he turned to look at her and noticed that the blush on her cheeks was much too intense to be justified by the temperature of the room since the open window of the private library had led the space to become quite chilly thanks to the cold breeze coming in.

Do it. Do it. Do it.

“Are you alright?” he asked, no doubt concerned by her silence as much as the strange look on her face.

Just do it once and forget about it, she thought. Do it. Do it. Do it.

Gwyn closed the little distance left between their bodies by gliding closer to him until her leg touched his. Gathering every ounce of courage she had built up to this point and telling herself that she would atone for her stupidity later, she placed a hand on his face and pressed her lips against his before he could finish saying her name.

The moment Gwyn felt how soft and perfect his lips were, she realised the terrible mistake that she was making. Her heartbeat increased, a sudden heat crept up her face and body as she slowly moved her lips against his. She was wrong. So very wrong. How could she think that one kiss would be enough? Who was she kidding? Why hadn’t she thought of the possibility that a single kiss would leave her wanting more, even as she still had her lips sealed to his?

She needed to stop before he pushed her away and asked what the hell was going on with her - why her hands were caressing his neck, why she was so close to him that her breasts were now pressed tight against his chest, why she wanted to jump on him, wrap her legs around his waist and beg him to deepen the kiss and teach her everything there was to know about pleasure. Those smutty novels must have turned her brain to mush. Perhaps she should take a break from them. Or perhaps she should read more to fill in the bigger gap that was forming between her need for him and actual reality.

Convinced that the hand he had brought to her waist was a request to stop, Gwyn pulled away, her eyes opening but staring down at her hands where she had placed them on her lap. Her internal monologue might have made it seem like the kiss had lasted for hours but it had only really been a few seconds. Maybe the memory of those few seconds would haunt her until the end of her days and the embarrassment would be her punishment.

When she looked up at Azriel, she found him staring back at her. His eyes were open wide, his mouth slightly parted and he seemed as though all coherent thoughts had been sucked from his beautiful head. Gwyn cleared her throat and stood up abruptly.

“I’m going to leave now before I lose my last shred of courage,” she said with as much firmness in her voice as she could muster.

With that, she turned on her heels and made her way to the door, leaving a dumbfounded Azriel behind. Her hand was already on the knob when a loud, “WAIT,” made her stop.

When she turned around, the sounds of Azriel’s rushed footsteps had already stopped and he stood before her. Gwyn didn’t have the time to take a full breath in before he wrapped a hand around her waist, grabbed her face with his other hand and kissed her.

#IT'S GWYNRIEL WEEKS #YAAAY!!! #gwynriel #gwyneth berdara #azriel shadowsinger #fluff #first kiss #gwynriel fic #pro gwynriel #gwynriel weeks 2024 #gwynrielweeks2024

[hlizr50]

Sooo remember yesterday when I reblogged that amazing art by elenana.art on Instagram?

Well, I couldn't stop myself from writing a drabble for my Gwynriel headcanon that it inspired... So here it is!

And there's no angst!!

Read on AO3

Nesta rolled her eyes, unwilling to give her sister the satisfaction of, well, being right.

“The drummer was kinda hot, I guess,” she muttered. ‘Kinda hot’ was a gross understatement for the colossal man who had manned the drums during the trio’s set. The Bat Boys, they called themselves. And that drummer had been nothing less than drool-worthy.

“What do you mean ‘I guess’?! Have you seen his biceps?” Feyre sputtered.

Oh yes. Yes, she definitely had.

“Okay, but what’s with all the tattoos?” Nesta demanded, lifting a brow. “They’re a band, Feyre, not the yakuza.” Her sister’s answering expression was unimpressed, to say the very least.

“I should’ve just brought Elain.”

The Hell she should have.

With another eyeroll, Nesta snapped, “Don’t be silly. Those tattoos would give Elain a heart attack. Besides, she’s—“

Her sentence was cut off when she ran face first into a wall of black.

“Hey!” She seethed. “Watch where you’re…” Nesta looked up, ready to give the offending obstacle her famed I-will-slay-my-enemies expression. Her gaze drifted up… and up and up. Over the collar of the tight fitting black tee and the tendrils of ink that peeked out over it. Over the jaw that was sharp as a knife. Over the beautiful lips, straight nose, and high cheekbones. Until her eyes were met with churning hazel — nearly gold. The bassist.

Holy fuck, was he pretty.

Nesta gaped at him, all lean muscle and height. Not as ruggedly handsome as the drummer, but unfairly gorgeous, nonetheless. Beautiful enough to make the two women gape as he stared back down at them, his face a mask of cool disinterest.

Absolute, awkward silence.

“Um… could you let me through, please?” His voice was as deep and rich as the instrument he played, even if it was soft as a whisper.

What planet of perfection had this guy come from?

“Oh, yeah,” Feyre stammered, pushing Nesta to the side. “Sorry.” The towering, tattooed god of a man passed between them as they stared, slack-jawed.

Forget the drummer. An angel had just appeared before them. Nesta dramatically sucked in a breath as her sister began giggling like a fan girl.

Typical.

But there was still a chance to shoot her shot—

“Az!” Someone called from behind them. And then, passing between them as the bassist had, a blur of cobalt blue topped with a curtain of copper bounded up to the tall, dark, handsome man.

And his whole demeanor… changed.

He’d turned just in time for the woman to barrel into him, and his whole face lit up. If Nesta had thought him attractive before, that bright white smile — complete with a little dimple on one side — sent him straight into drop-dead gorgeous territory.

“Bird. You made it,” the bassist — Az, apparently — murmured into the woman’s hair, his arms wrapping around her shoulders. Her arms were pale against his bronzed skin, and Nesta couldn’t help but notice how much she looked like…

“Gwyn?”

Her pin straight mane flew as the woman’s head jerked, meeting Nesta’s stare with wide, teal eyes.

“Nesta? What are you—“

“Wait, this is the guy you’ve been seeing?” Nesta didn’t need to wait for an answer. Not when Gwyn’s cheeks turned the most incriminating shade of pink.

With a nervous laugh, she replied, “Nesta, this is Azriel.” Icy eyes narrowed on the couple, keenly aware that Azriel’s hand had not moved from Gwyn’s hip and Gwyn’s arm had remained around the musician’s waist. “Azriel, Nesta.”

“I’m Feyre,” Nesta’s sister chimed in, earning a scathing side-eye.

The towering bassist chuckled, pulling Gwyn into his side and dipping his chin toward her. “Have you been keeping me a secret from your friends, Gwyneth?” He teased, only fanning her blush into a roaring red.

Turning to him with beseeching eyes, she exclaimed, “No!” Then she dragged her lower lip between her teeth and looked away from him. “I just… haven’t dated much and I wanted it to be… all mine. For a bit.”

Well, much to Nesta’s displeasure, that was incredibly sweet. It wasn’t that she was unhappy with Gwyn — the redhead she’d met at work was more like a sister to her than a friend, and she deserved only the most wonderful things.

It was the musician that was the focal point of her skepticism now. She’d been drooling over him only moments before, but a man would have to be nearly perfect to even get close to being deserving of Gwyneth Berdara.

Azriel leaned in and pressed his lips tenderly against Gwyn’s temple. “Of course, bird. There’s nothing wrong with that.”

Well, he sure was smooth, wasn’t he?

“It’s nice to meet you both,” he added with a warm smile and a nod. “You can come back to the green room with us if you want. We have some food and a bar. And I’m sure Rhys and Cass would love the company.”

And with that, Azriel returned his focus to the freckle-faced woman at his side, guiding her gently down the hall. After a moment of stunned silence, Nesta shook her head and began to follow, dragging her sister along.

Perhaps the drummer would do, after all.

Tag List... I don't have my Gwynriel list handy, so sorry in advance...

@headcanonheadcase @daevastanner @beaumaismortel @vikingmagic33 @captain-of-the-gwynriel-ship @sunshinebingo @shadowsxgwynriel @freyjas-musings @foreverinelysian @mystical-blaise @positivewitch @thecrispypotatochip @sv0430 @almosttenaciousmoon @aldbooks

#gwynriel #gwynriel fic #gwynriel supremacy #rockband au #azriel acotar #azriel shadowsinger #gwyneth berdara #azriel x gwyn #gwyn x azriel #fanfiction #gwynriel fanfiction #gwynriel fanfic #gwynriel drabble #fluff #acotar #acotar fic

[thelov3lybookworm]

When Shadows Ward Off Darkness. Chapter 2

Prologue Part 1

Summary: The prince is stubborn.

•○●⛦●○•

A/n: not much to say, so enjoy @bibliophiliaxvignette

@acotargiftexchange

•○🌑○•

Someone sidled up to Gwyn as she pulled out the book she thought would be interesting from its resting place on the shelf.

One glance told Gwyn that it was a young man, not much older than her, a smile on his brutally beautiful face. Gwyn offered a small smile back to him, turning back to the book in her hands.

"Read often?"

Gwyn blinked, realising the question was directed at her. She nodded as she looked at the man, who hummed.

"Can I help you?"

"I would hope so." When Gwyn waited for him to go on, he continued. "What is your favourite one?"

"You will read whatever i rcommend?"

He smiled wider. "I had to gift a book to my sister in law, but sure, I would read it if you told me to."

Gwyn's brows furrowed. Was he flirting with her?

He didn't give her much time to ponder that thought.

"I'm Draven." His hazel eyes stared at her expectantly, waiting for her to offer her name.

"Gwyneth."

He nodded, his eyes sparkling as he pushed back the onyx strands that fell into them, his hands covered in gruesome scars. "So… the book?"

"What kind of books does she read?"

Draven contemplated for a moment, a crease between his brows before he spoke haltingly. "Fantasy? I remember my brother complaining to me about how his wife ignored him half the time and swooned over someone who did not exist. I have also found her blushing and giggling while reading." He paused, realization dawning on his face, and Gwyn grinned.

At the sight of her grin, his lips parted, his eyes growing wide for a moment before he cleared his throat.

"Do books have… are there books that contain… explicit scenes?"

Gwyn burst out laughing. A blush spread over his cheeks, making her laugh harder.

"I like your sister in law. Yes, there are explicit scenes in books." She rolled her eyes. "Come, I'll show you them."

He sputtered, his eyes wide as he stared at her, and she clarified. "I'll show you the aisle that has those kinds of books."

His blush deepened, nodding.

He followed behind her as she waltzed through the bookstore, leading him to where he would find what he wanted.

Gwyn knew she was having a little too much fun watching him squirm under her gaze, but she didn't care.

It was adorable to watch that blush spreading down his neck as he flipped open to a page and read the filth written there.

So adorable that Gwyn would die to watch him blush again.

•○●⛦●○•

This became a routine over the next few months, he would come to the bookstore nearly everyday, and so would she, and she would tell him to read a book she liked, and then they would discuss about it for hours, often times being shooed away by the store owner.

Eventually the two of them began meeting outside of the bookstore, and their friendship began.

And he never once let it slip that he was a prince.

Gwyn shook her head, trying to focus on correctly stacking the pots in her uncle's shop.

"Gwyneth! Be a darling and go feed the cats in the back!" Her uncle's voice said from the front of the shop, making her sigh.

"Sure!" Gwyn called out to her uncle, grabbing the box of leftover food her aunt gave her to feed the cats.

Gwyn ducked out of the dimly lit back into the alleyway coloured by the fading sunlight. The stray cats meowed louder at the sight of her, and she smiled, crouching next to them as she poured the leftover food onto a newspaper, watching as the three little cats crowded around the food and began eating.

Gwyneth loved them. She loved animals in general, but she could not bring them home because her aunt hated them. And so this was the only way Gwyn was able to spend time around animals.

He loves animals too.

Gwyn slapped that thought with a slipper and kicked it out of her mind.

She had barely been five when her uncle had showed her the three cats who had then been little kittens then, and when she had asked him for help in naming the kittens, he had simply named them kitten, kitt and kit. Gwyn had been disappointed then, but her little brain could not come up with any better ideas for their names, so she had to make do with those names.

The alleyway was quiet, nothing different from any other day. There were only a few garbage cans in the alleyway, and nothing else.

It was peaceful, really.

As Gwyn was focused on the cats and making sure they ate properly, trying to ignore the events a few hours prior, she didn't feel the other presence until gravel crunched behind her, and she whipped her head around, barely stopping herself from falling on her ass.

There, near the mouth of the alley, a few feet away from her, stood a person, and she was pretty sure it was a male, though she could not be sure as they had the hood of their cloak pulled low over their face. Though Gwyn was sure she knew who it was.

"Hello, Gwyneth." She definitely knew who it was now.

Gwyn drew her hand back from where it had been caressing kit's head and stood, her heart race picking up. The voice that spoke was definitely masculine, one she knew better than anyone else's, and Gwyn could practically hear the smile in his voice as he opened his mouth.

Gwyn waited for him to go on, but of course she was met with silence. She resisted the urge to roll her eyes. "How can I help you?"

"You know how you can help me."

She turned away, trying to squash the anger simmering in her belly.

She felt a soft breeze hit the back of her hand before familiar scarred fingers wrapped around her wrist. She tried to tug it out of his grip, a scowl crawling onto her face.

She glared at the hand, then at the owner of it.

"Gwyn, let me explain-"

"There is nothing to explain-"

"Please Gwyn, please." He pleaded, his grip tightening on her wrist.

Gwyn let out a deep sigh.

He took that as his queue to continue. "I am sorry Gwyn, I did not realise that my actions could have hurt you. I am so sorry. Please forgive me."

"How about no?" She shot back, glancing at her cats to see if they were done eating.

He looked taken aback, staring at her slack jawed. "I- you- why not?"

Gwyn blinked at him again. "Why would I want to waste my time with you? Why would I forgive someone who had no problems lying to me?"

He looked offended for a moment, then his expression cleared. "Gwyn, you do remember that you and I have known each other for two years now."

Gwyn lifted a brow. "I do."

He gave her a charming smile. "Does that not outweigh the title I have?"

Gwyn resisted the urge to punch his beautiful face. "The fact that you hid the truth from me about being one of those uncaring, ungrateful scoundrels who cares nothing of his people will always outweigh the trust I had in you."

He frowned, his lower lip jutting out in a small pout.

Gwyn rolled her eyes, turning back to her cats and realising they were done eating and now scattered all over the alleyway, lazing about. Gwyn bent to pick up the leftovers, shoving it all into the garbage can nearby. All while she did that, the prince followed her around.

Gwyn glared at him, heaving an exasperated sigh. "What do you want?"

"Why can't you forgive me for something I have no control over?"

"I am not mad at you for being a part of the royal family, I am mad because you lied to me when you knew how much I hate them."

He stared at her, for long enough that she had to stop herself from squirming.

"So the fact that I am still your friend, still the guy who asked you for book recommendations, means nothing to you?"

Gwyn turned away, knowing she was being irrational.

She shoved aside that rational piece of her mind.

Gwyn rolled her eyes, walking back to the door she had come out from.

There was only silence in the alleyway for a moment, but as soon as she reached out her hand to grasp the door handle, he spoke.

"If you think that you ignoring me and throwing away what we had over a something that does not matter will rid you of me, you are wrong."

She turned her head, though she did not meet his eyes.

"I have been summoned, though I will not let you ruin what we had because you are upset with me like a little girl."

And with that, he walked off.

•○🌑○•

Taglist: @bubybubsters @eos-princess @nightless @harrystylesfan2686 @cassie6392

#gwyn x azriel #gwynriel #gwynriel fluff #gwyn berdara #gwyn acosf #gwyneth berdara #pro gwynriel #azriel x gwyn #gwyneth x azriel #azriel #azriel fanfic #azriel acotar #azriel spymaster #azriel fluff #azriel shadowsinger #acotar series #acowar #a court of silver flames #acotar headcanon #mating bond #a court of thorns and roses #acotar writing #sarah j maas #acotar fanfic #acotar fluff #acotar fandom #acotar #acotar fanfiction

[autumnshighlady]

I’ve Always Liked to Play With Fire (part 15)

NESTA ARCHERON X ERIS VANSERRA X FEMALE!READER

summary: Azriel has a tough decision to make

warnings: Night Court slander, semi graphic torture, Rhysand is horrible, the usual

word count: 5.8k

DO NOT REPOST ANYWHERE

a/n: oh my god i am so so so sorry this took so long! life has been insane lately i havent had the energy to write. Anywho, this chapter is just the start of something super big so buckle up and look for hints hehe alsO PLEASE GIVE FEEDBACK ON THIS CHAPTER IM BEGGING

feedback is appreciated, just no hate pls! these are just my opinions, i’m more curious to see how you all like the writing and characterization and storylines!

part 1 // part 2 // part 3 // part 4 // part 5 // part 6 // part 7 // part 8 // part 9 // part 10 // part 11

read on ao3

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✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧

AZRIEL POV

Azriel couldn’t help but flinch at the sight of your limp body, arms strung up like you were a piece of meat dangling from the chains. He had thought himself to be good at shutting off his emotions when it came to his line of work, but this felt different. Wrong, even. It confused him – not once had he ever hesitated, ever even considered disobeying his High Lord’s orders down in these dungeons.

Your hair was matted and lifeless around your face, the weak rise and fall of your chest being the only indication that you were even still alive. The beautiful gown that adorned your body at the ball was now tattered and dirty, barely clinging onto your skin in some places. Azriel gulped as he stared at your unconscious form, wiped out from Rhysand’s attempts to penetrate your mind.

Evidently, the High Lord was beyond frustrated, his brow furrowed and sweaty from the efforts. “I’ve never seen this,” He muttered, running a hand through his dark hair. “Not once. I’ve always been able to get inside people’s heads. Why not hers?”

“I don’t know.” Azriel responded. He felt his shadows curl around his scarred fingers. Normally they did so to encourage him to get the job done, but this time felt different. It was as if they wanted him not to end your life, but to reach out and free you from the shackles. But he ignored them.

Rhys slumped against the wall, panting slightly. “I need answers, Az.” He snapped, voice sharp. “How is this girl able to withstand my magic? And how the hell did she access some ancient spell that allowed this bond to form with Nesta? I would prefer to know before I end things, so whatever shit she may have put in motion can be stopped.”

Azriel stiffened. “End things?

The High Lord sighed, as if it were the most obvious thing in the world. “Come on, Azriel. You know this is how it has to end. She spent months plotting against our court, and possesses some form of magic within her bond with Nesta. She’s a threat and you know it. And threats like that must be eliminated.”

He spoke with that authoritative voice that Azriel had seen bring so many others to their knees in obedience. He felt it tug at his bones, the instinct to obey his High Lord. Azriel had always considered himself loyal, never needing that extra kick to submit to his superior. Until now. “I disagree.” Azriel said sternly. “(Y/N) has lied, yes. But she has shown no signs of intending to inflict harm upon this court. All she wanted was to get out, and she knew we wouldn’t let her.”

“I don’t recall you being this blind, brother.” Rhysand’s voice was low as his violet eyes sternly stared down his spymaster. “Did she flash you her tits during training sessions? Is that why you’ve suddenly gone soft?”

“No. I think we pushed her too hard, too fast into this job she did not want. She had already lost everything in the Spring Court, and when Lucien brought her here she immediately became a prisoner. Did you expect her to bow at your feet and be eternally grateful for letting her stay here? We should have given her a reason to want to become a part of this court, not force her into it within a span of months.”

Rhysand let out a growl, and Azriel knew he was pushing his limits. “Careful, Az.” He said. But Azriel ignored him.

“Can you blame her for resenting us?” The shadowsinger continued, against his better judgement. “Our High Lady destroyed her court, and when Lucien brought her here she was forced to live indebted to the female who allowed her home to be ruined.”

There was a low rumble within the cell as Rhysand’s dark mist began to creep out from behind him. “Choose your next words wisely, Azriel. Or I’ll begin to think you’ve helped her.”

“I didn’t, and you know it. But your protectiveness for your mate is clouding your judgement as a leader, Rhysand. This girl does not deserve to die for what she has done.”

Before he could breathe another word, a sharp pain cut through his throat as Rhys’ dark power wrapped around it, cutting off his air. Shock flooded through him, hazel eyes bulging as the violet eyed male snarled at him. He didn’t try to fight back. Not once had his brother gone this far – sure, they had their fair share of nasty fights, but never like this. No matter how angry they had gotten with each other, neither had ever threatened the life of the other. Until now.

“That is not your call to make, spymaster.” Rhysand snarled furiously. “I am your High Lord before anything else, and you are sworn to me. My word is law, not yours. You will go and search for more insight into this bond between her and Nesta. Whether you find anything on it or not, (Y/N) will die by your hand at dawn tomorrow. You will not protest, and you will not breathe a word about this to anyone. If I sense even for a second that you will disobey me, I will throw you in a cell beside this scheming whore. Am I understood?”

Azriel nodded as best he could, body still frozen in shock. After a moment, Rhysand’s tendrils finally retreated, leaving the spymaster gasping for air. Despite working alongside him, being the executioner to his master for over 500 years, Azriel had never known what it was to be like on the receiving end of his High Lord’s pure fury until now. He glanced over at your strung-up figure, guilt churning in his gut. You had endured this torture for days, a torture Azriel only received a glimpse of.

As the spymaster inhaled deeply kneeling on the cold floor, his shadows whispered to him. He knew deep down that he had a choice to make, one like never before. 500 years of loyalty to Rhysand was being put to the test, something Azriel never thought would happen. Another glance at how intensely Rhys was staring at your imprisoned, starved form was all he needed to winnow away.

*********************

Azriel’s throat still burned from the pressing of Rhys’ dark mist. He kept his demeanour calm as he approached the doors to the library at the House of Wind, even though his stomach was in a thousand knots. He knew what he was about to do was treason at the highest order, and the second Rhys found out he would be flayed alive. The clenching and unclenching of his scarred fingers was the only indication of his disturbance as the spymaster was met with Clotho. Her pale robes shone in the blue light of the library as she approached him.

Shadowsinger, Her elegant writing appeared on the paper in lieu of her voice. What can I do for you?

“I need to see Gwyneth.” Azriel said, trying to keep the urgency out of his voice to not alarm the priestess.

Gwyn is occupied right now. May I take a message?

He gulped nervously. “I’m really sorry, Clotho. But I need her right now.”

That will not be possible. I suggest you return at another time, Azriel.

“Please.” Azriel hated begging, and hated pushing the priestess even more. But before Clotho could script a reply, a gentle voice sounded from behind the shelves a few metres away.

“Azriel?” Gwyn’s red hair appeared, streaming down her flowing robes as she carried an alarming amount of books. “What are you doing here?”

“Gwyn, I need to speak with you in private. Right now.” He pleaded, hoping Clotho wouldn’t shoo him away.

Gwyn’s teal eyes were puzzled, but she nodded. “It’s alright Clotho.” The priestess merely nodded beneath her hood before turning and disappearing back into the stacks.

Azriel breathed a sigh of relief as Gwyn put down the books. She walked towards one of the offices, and he followed her in silence. The room was tense as she closed the door behind him.

She crossed her arms, which made him halt. Normally his interactions with Gwyn were pleasant, leaving his shadows singing happily afterwards. But the way she was staring at him with a hardened glare made him want to shrink back.

“Where is (Y/N)?” Gwyn said sharply.

Azriel took a deep breath, unsure of how to approach this. He didn’t know what version of that night at the Hewn City had reached the ears of the priestesses. “Gwyn–”

“Don’t bullshit me for one second, Azriel.” The redhead was unyielding, but he could see the anxiousness within her as her throat bobbed with every word. “Nesta left for Autumn with Eris, but (Y/N) never returned from the Hewn City that night. What did you do to her?”

“I didn’t do anything–” He started, but Gwyn cut him off abruptly.

“I said don’t bullshit me, you fucking liar!” Her voice rose, long fingers clenching and trembling with anger. It was enough to make Azriel take a step back, shocked at the fire within her. “I heard you grabbed her and whisked her away that night. What the hell did you do to my friend?”

Azriel leaned against the desk, wiping his face with his hand. His heart cracked a bit, knowing that trust and companionship he had built with Gwyn while training had come crashing down. He hated himself for it, for being so blind in following orders that led him to this place. His loyalty to Rhysand came at a price, one he had always been willing to pay until now. “I’m sorry.” His voice was barely above a whisper. “I was following orders.”

“What is wrong with you?” Gwyn hissed, her words cutting him sharper than Rhysand’s magic had. “You took away her one chance of leaving this gods damned court peacefully. You took away her freedom out of stupid, blind loyalty.”

“How did you know what happened that night?”

She snorted. “You and your little circle like to treat us priestesses like we’re these fragile little flowers living in our own little shelter, oblivious to the outside world. But people talk, and word reaches us. We aren’t as ignorant to the court as you think we are.”

“I never said that you were.”

“You basically just did.”

Shame washed over Azriel. He knew she was right, that he was a prick in assuming the priestesses remained clueless to what was happening in the court right now. And that’s why Clotho had been hesitant to let him into the library. “I never meant for any of this to happen.” He muttered, closing his eyes.

“Well, it did. Now tell me where my friend is, and why you’re here.”

Azriel took a breath, preparing to utter the words that would make this decision the point of no return. “I need everything you have on the bond between (Y/N) and Nesta.”

A flicker of worry crossed Gwyn’s teal eyes. “I don’t know anything–”

“Yes, you do.” Azriel interrupted her calmly. “My guess is you knew about their plan as well. Otherwise you’d be a lot more freaked out by Nesta marrying Eris.”

As panic began to set into the priestess’ face, Azriel softened his voice. “It’s ok, I’m not going to tell anyone. It makes sense that any information that Nesta and (Y/N) got on the bond was through you and your work. You are not in trouble, and nobody will hear from me that you helped them. I just need every scrap of information you were able to get your hands on regarding whatever magic they used.”

She narrowed her eyes. “So you can give it to your master like a good dog playing fetch? Not gonna happen. He’ll use it to hurt both of them. I don’t care that he’s the High Lord, I won’t let him do that.”

Azriel stood up and took a step towards Gwyn. She didn’t shrink back, but rather lifted her chin to meet his gaze. “Gwyn,” He began. “That’s not what this is. I’m not retrieving this information for Rhysand.”

The priestess blinked once, as if considering the gravity of his words. He wished he could spill the truth and tell Gwyn what he planned to do, but just uttering those words directly to her would put her at risk. “Then who are you retrieving it for?”

“Look, I am not trying to hide anything from you. But I told you… if you knew the truth, I would be putting you at risk for selfish reasons. And after all I have done, that is something I cannot live with. You just have to trust me when I say that it is for the right reason.”

“After hearing about how you so quickly stole (Y/N) away, I’m not sure if we have the same definition of the right reason, Azriel.” Gwyn’s voice was bitter, but there was a sadness to it that made the guilt churning inside of him threaten to spill over.

“I understand.” He said quietly. “And you have no reason to trust me right now. But please… if you’ve ever had any faith in me at all…just….just know that I’m doing this for (Y/N). And Nesta. If you believe anything I say, believe that.”

Silence overtook the room, the shadowsinger and the priestess standing mere inches from each other. After a long few minutes Gwyn muttered a ‘stay here’ before quickly fleeing the office.

She returned 15 minutes later with a few sheets of parchment paper and several books. They were placed upon the dusty table, and Gwyn took a deep breath. “This is everything I have on the subject,” She said shakily. “It’s not much, but it’s every document that could possibly give anything away about the bond between them.”

Without thinking, Azriel dropped to his knees in relief, bowing his head. “Thank you, Gwyn. Thank you.” His entire body was on the verge of shaking as the weight of what he was about to do began to truly set in. Everything he had known and defended was about to be put on the line.

“Promise me this, Azriel.” Gwyn spoke coldly. “Promise that this information gets into the right hands, not the wrong ones. You do whatever it takes to help my girls. After everything you and your family have done to them, you owe them that much. And more.”

“I swear it.” Azriel said solemnly, still looking at the ground. In a flash, he felt a cold blade pressing against his jaw, tilting his head upwards to gaze at the priestess. She looked like a goddess of justice, staring down at him with icy eyes.

“And I swear this to you,” Gwyn said coldly, a silver dagger in hand. “If you screw this up and they pay the price for it, no power in the world will stop me from hurting you. I don’t care that you trained me, or that you saved me on that day Hybern came. I will cut your throat if anything happens to Nesta or (Y/N) because of you. Understood?”

Azriel was enthralled at her strength. This was not the shy, nervous priestess that he had rescued from Hybern’s soldiers. Gwyn’s bravery had excelled since the second she stepped into the ring, and Azriel had marvelled at her progress during training, how comfortable she became with the outside world. Stupidly, he had credited that to his and Cassian’s training, thinking that it was what Gwyn, Nesta and the others had needed to heal like he and Cassian had. No, this strength had nothing to do with what he taught her. Behind her stern expression, Azriel knew that deep down this strength had come from the friendship formed with you, Nesta, and Emerie. He had been a fool to see it as anything other than that.

“I’m proud of you, Gwyn.” Azriel said softly before his brain could shut him up.

Despite the flicker of surprise across her face, she did not yield. “I do not need your validation. I need you to do the right thing and help my friends. Only after that will your statement be worth anything to me.”

Gwyn removed the blade from the spymaster’s throat and turned on her heel. Like a ghost in the wind, she was gone. Azriel’s chest was tight as he stood up, collecting the documents in his arms and praying that this possibly very stupid decision would be worth it. But after seeing the anger on Gwyn’s face, the hurt he had caused without even realising it…. Azriel knew exactly what he needed to do as he winnowed away.

*********************

The door in front of Azriel opened before he could raise a hand to knock, revealing the redhead male with a golden eye wide with surprise.

“Azriel?” Lucien said in shock. “What are you doing here?”

“We need to talk.” Was all he said in response before pushing his way past Lucien into the manor.

“By all means, come in.” The male muttered sarcastically.  But Azriel paid it no mind as he scanned the large living room for any sign of Jurian and Vassa.

“I’m alone.” Lucien quipped, settling down on the large brown armchair by the fireplace. “Since that’s what you were trying to figure out. I’m surprised you came by before (Y/N). I thought she’d have visited already, but I guess she’s been enjoying Velaris too much to be slumming it down in the human lands. When you see her next, thank her for the scarf for me, will you?”

Azriel’s heart dropped, head whipping sharply towards Azriel. “What?” He didn’t even bother keeping the surprise out of his voice.

Lucien frowned. “The scarf she gave me for the solstice? Rhys delivered it a day or so after, said she was busy on a new mission and asked him to drop it off for her.”

“Rhys was here?” Dread pooled in Azriel’s stomach. His High Lord was ensuring your disappearance would be quiet, giving him time to create a cover story before eliminating you.

“Yes… Why do you look so concerned? What aren’t you telling me?”

Azriel put his head in his hands, cursing. “You have no idea what’s been going on, have you?”

Lucien was still as a statue as he spoke. “I haven’t heard from (Y/N) since I got to the manor. When Rhysand visited, he said she had picked out a scarf for me as a present, and that she was sorry she hadn’t visited, but that she was loving her life in Velaris. And that she was training under you to work for the Night Court as a spy.”

Any desire to be secretive flew out the window as Azriel explained everything to the Autumn male – how you were not freely living in Velaris, but locked away with Nesta in the House of Wind. Your time spent back at the Spring Court to spy on your own people. Nesta’s engagement to Eris as a cover to escape the Night Court. Lucien was usually a collected male in Azriel’s eyes, but he could see the disbelief and anger in his expression as he told him the truth. When he was done, Lucien leaned forward with his elbows on his knees, speaking in a low voice. “So you’re telling me that you locked away my best friend, and everything I’ve heard about her for these past few months has been a lie.” Lucien said. “Is that correct?”

“Yes.” Azriel said quietly. “And now I’m trying to fix it–”

“Fucking hell!” Lucien exclaimed sharply, standing up abruptly and pacing back and forth. “Your court is a fucking shitshow, you know that? How the fuck can you let this happen, Azriel? You’re so far up Rhysand’s ass you didn’t see any of this coming?”

“I understand you’re angry–”

“Oh angry doesn’t even begin to describe it,” Lucien hissed, his red hair gleaming in the light of the fire. “You played right into Rhys’ hands, and now (Y/N) is being tortured in a cell somewhere because you let it happen instead of growing a fucking spine. And that doesn’t even begin to touch on the fact that Nesta was treated so horribly by you people she was willing to marry ERIS out of all people just to get away from it.”

Azriel had no defence. Defeated, he hung his head. Lucien was right about everything, and it was made worse by the fact Rhysand lied about your status to him knowing that the Autumn male was the only one likely to try and do something to stick up for you.

“Now what I can’t figure out is why you’re telling me this.” Lucien folded his arms, glaring at the spymaster. “You’re either betraying Rhysand and trying to fix this mess, which is brave but incredibly stupid. Or you’ve come here to see if I somehow had anything to do with all this so you can hang me up in a cell next to (Y/N). Which is it, shadowsinger?”

”I need your help.” Azriel admitted, meeting his harsh gaze. “I’m trying to turn this around, but I need to track down Eris. You’re my only shot.”

Lucien let out a harsh, heartless laugh. “I figured. You need my help. If you thought I wasn’t going to be any use to you, I wonder if you’d have even come here and told me the truth. Or would you have just let me live on believing this lie until word got around about (Y/N) meeting her tragic end on some mission.”

Mentally, Azriel was exhausted. Two redheads ripping him a new one was beginning to chip away at him more than he was already crumbling at the weight of his decision. Like Gwyn, Lucien was right. While he respected the male, Azriel doubted he’d have even considered coming just to tell Lucien the truth about what happened if he didn’t think Lucien could help. And his moment of silence told Lucien all he needed to know, for he scoffed again. “Of course not,” He continued. “You people just love exploiting those of us without any other options and then throwing us away like garbage when we’re no longer of any use to you.”

“Then help me make this right.” Azriel pleaded. “Tell me how to get to Eris, discreetly.”

“Can’t you just free her yourself and take her to safety?”

“No, there are ancient wards in that prison. I can pass through quickly and easily, but not so much with another person. Rhys would find us within seconds if she left that cell, and kill us both.”

“Then how do you propose we get her out?”

Azriel frowned. “I’m sorry, we?”

Lucien rolled his eyes, taking a hearty swig from his glass of wine beside him. “I’m going to help you get her out.”

Azriel shook his head, not liking how many people were involved in this already. “I can’t let you.”

“Bullshit. You don’t get to tell me what to do. Not after everything you’ve done to create this mess. I’ll take you to Eris, and besides, I think I know something that can help us.”

*********************

The crisp scents of Autumn flooded Azriel’s senses as he paced the clearing. His mind whirled from his talk with Lucien, even more so at the male’s idea that they had discussed. Lucien had winnowed him here and told him to wait while he discreetly fetched Eris. It was a huge gamble – while you and Nesta had been willing to trust Eris, Azriel was not so keen. His dealings with the prince had always been tense at best, and vicious at worst. He knew he’d have to swallow his pride and put their history aside for this, however hard it may be.

Frankly, Azriel had no idea where in the Autumn Court he was. His shadows sensed nothing, no indication of where they were on the map. It briefly crossed his mind that Lucien could very well have led him into a trap as payback, but deep down Azriel knew Lucien wasn’t that type of male. However angry he might be at Azriel, he would prioritise getting you back. The clearing was massive, which made him feel far too exposed for his liking. There was a thicket of trees in the distance that he considered hiding in, but he owed it to Lucien to do as he was instructed and wait here.

It felt like hours before a strong gust of wind blew his tousled locks out of his forehead, and the presence of something Azriel could only describe as sheer power slammed into him like a wall. A thunderous roar sounded from the skies, unlike anything the shadowsinger had ever heard before. But nothing could have prepared him for the sight before him.

Three large dragons were flying ahead, circling above the clearing. Their wings were like claps of thunder, nearly sending him backwards onto the ground. Upon the back of the large black one was the unmistakable, arrogant figure of Eris Vanserra. He held onto the spikes going down the dragon’s neck as it soared above Azriel, roaring with the ferocity of an ancient battlecry. Azriel’s jaw nearly hit the ground as he spotted none other than Nesta Archeron, riding the elegant silver dragon with her hair blowing in the wind. Her eyes were a lethal glowing silver, resembling the scales of the very beast she was mounted on.

“Mother above…” Azriel whispered, flinching as he felt the ground shake beneath him. He turned around slowly, and was met with the third dragon, a riderless one with gold scales and large horns. It snaked towards him, growling fiercely. For a moment, Azriel thought the beast would open its jaws and roast him alive, but the creature paused, growling as it glanced behind the shadowsinger.

“I must say, you are the last person I expected to come here.” Came Eris’ cocky voice. Azriel turned back around, slightly nervous at the golden dragon breathing down his neck, and was faced with the other two. Ignoring Eris, his gaze landed upon Nesta.

She was perched upon the dragon like it was a horse, or even a throne, chin high like a queen from ancient times. Azriel’s breath left his body at the sight of Nesta with her hair unbound, trailing freely down her back and shining against her blood red dress. Whichever way her gaze shifted, the dragon’s did so too. It was like watching Nesta in a mirror, only her reflection was a dragon. It unnerved Azriel, and he was well aware of his vulnerability in this situation. Not only was he in enemy court, unauthorised at that matter, but three beasts he thought only existed in stories stood beside him, in the flesh.

“Lucien said you wanted to meet.” Eris said coldly. “You have ten seconds to convince us that it’s worth our time.”

“(Y/N) will die at sunrise tomorrow if we do not do something.” Azriel blurted out clumsily.

There was a moment of silence, and Eris looked towards Nesta. Her gaze was fixed on Azriel, and he squirmed underneath it. Her silver mount growled fiercely, as if it was sharing its riders' rage.

“Are we supposed to believe that you’ve suddenly had a change of heart and care about her?”

Azriel gritted his teeth. “I’ve always cared.”

Eris snorted. “No, not truly. If you had, then we wouldn’t be having this meeting. Because you’d have done something by now and grown a spine.”

“Your brother said the same thing.” The spymaster growled, already irked by having to negotiate with the Autumn prince. “I don’t need more reminding that I’ve fucked up, Eris. I just want to save her life, and I can’t do that on my own.”

“And it’s taken you this long to come to this realisation because…” Eris raised an eyebrow, amber gaze merciless. His dragon snarled, baring its teeth menacingly.

“I didn’t know Rhys would take things this far. I thought he’d want to find out everything about the bond before he made a decision on what to do with her. But he doesn’t want to wait, he wants her gone by tomorrow.”

“I assume he ordered you to do the deed?”

Azriel nodded, throat tight. “Yes. He ordered me to collect all information on the magic they used to create the bond before I…. before I kill her. Regardless of whether I came up with anything, he wants her eliminated by sunrise.”

This was probably the stupidest, craziest decision Azriel had ever made. Part of it felt wrong, betraying his found family after 500 years of peace. But when he reflected on those centuries, had he truly been happy? Had he truly felt like he was living a fulfilled life, content with what he was doing? A few weeks ago, Azriel would have been sure of his answer. Now he wasn’t, and that unsettled him.

Regardless, reached into his bag and pulled out the books Gwyn gave him. He took a breath and continued. “Which is why I brought every document the Night Court has on this magic to you. So Rhys wouldn’t get his hands on it.”

“You went to Gwyn?” Nesta burst out, rage dripping from her tongue.

“Yes.” Azriel admitted his guilt for putting Gwyn in this precarious position intensifying.

“You put her in danger by doing that!” The eldest Archeron hissed at him, her dragon responding in a similar tone. “If anything happens to her because of it, I will slaughter you, Azriel.”

He let out a dry laugh. “Gwyn said the same thing to me about you and (Y/N). I swore no matter what happened, nobody would find out I got this through her. She even put a knife to my throat.”

Eris spoke up again. “As much as I would truly love to believe you, if I recall correctly you were perfectly content sending (Y/N) to certain death weeks ago on an impossible mission under Rhysand’s orders.”

“I was trying to find a way out of it for her!” Azriel yelled, patience snapping. “A way for her to quietly flee and go build a life for herself far away from all this shit. I never told her because I didn’t want to scare her, or get her hopes up. I had the chance to explain this to her before…”

His voice trailed off, memories of seeing you strung up like an animal flashing through his mind. Azriel was no stranger to self hatred, but today it was striking him now more than ever.

Nesta’s lethal tone interrupted his thoughts. “Before what?” She demanded.

Azriel gulped, praying that the dragons wouldn’t make him their meal. “Before Rhysand interrupted and… took over.”

“Meaning?” Eris inquired, his dragon inching ever so slightly closer to the Illyrian.

“Meaning he thought I was being too soft, since I gave her water. He stopped the physical torture and spent hours trying to get inside her head until she passed out.”

“And he didn’t manage to do it?” Eris’ voice was laced with surprise, something uncharacteristic for the Autumn prince who always seemed to be two steps ahead of everyone.

“No.”

Eris and Nesta glanced at each other, unreadable expressions crossing their faces. Their dragons continued to stare down Azriel, awaiting whatever command would give them permission to incinerate him where he stood. He had a million questions for them – how the fuck did Eris have dragons? What did Beron say about all of this? Did they still plan on taking him out? But Azriel knew better than to ask them.

Nesta swung her legs to the side and crawled down the dragon’s side. To Azriel’s awe, the beast lowered its shoulder to the ground to make it easier for the female to climb off. Gracefully, Nesta’s feet met the ground and she patted the dragon’s neck. He remained frozen in his place as she stalked towards him. Like Gwyn, there was a new strength to her. This was not the half-starved Nesta who first came to the House of Wind. No, this was the female that stole from the Cauldron itself, whose name was whispered across the moors and valleys of Prythian, associated with pure death and power. Nesta’s steps were sure, silver fire expertly curling around her fingertips like Azriel’s own shadows as she stalked towards him like a lioness seizing up its prey.

“My war is not directly with you, Azriel,” Nesta said slowly. “But make no mistake. You are not innocent here. You may not have inflicted the most damage, but you willingly stood by and let your family tear me and (Y/N) down until they got pure submission. You let Cassian mock and belittle me at my lowest. You forced (Y/M)  into a job she did not want to do. You let Cassian force me to train as a warrior when that’s not at all what I wanted or needed. You didn’t do a damn thing to advocate for either of us because you’re so blinded by the sheltered little tower your circle has built over the last 500 years, ignorant to the pain you inflict on anyone who’s not a part of your family. You coming here on your own volition is the only thing in my eyes that could possibly redeem you. You will help us get (Y/N) back at all costs, or you will suffer at my hand more than you have ever suffered before.”

Being threatened for the third time that day, all Azriel could do was bow his head. “I understand.” He said.

“No, I don’t think you do.” Nesta hissed. “For your sake, let’s hope your change of heart isn’t too late.”

Azriel hadn’t even noticed Eris had climbed off his dragon and was walking towards Nesta. He stood beside her, gently resting a hand on her waist. Azriel tensed, half expecting Nesta to slap him away, but she did not. To his surprise, she looked comfortable with Eris. More so than she ever had been with Cassain. When Cassian touched Nesta, there was always some sexual suggestion beneath it. But not with Eris. Eris’ touch was comfort more than ownership, something Azriel did not expect.

In his heart, he realised Cassian and Nesta were not right for each other. It made no sense for them to be mates, and whatever they had going on was purely surface level sexual tension. There was nothing deep about it, no greater understanding of each other. Nesta and Eris seemed like a much more reasonable match, mirroring each other like they did with their dragons. As much as Azriel hated the male, and knew that these thoughts would crush Cassian’s heart, it reassured him that he had made the right choice.

“So, spymaster,” Eris piped up, cocking his head. “How are we doing to do this?”

And so Azriel began explaining.

taglist (comment if you want to be added): @queercontrarian @kitkat-writes-stuff @moonfawnx @sevikas-whore @weird-and-wise @jemandderkeinenusernamenfindet @kingshitonly @ladyofcherries @eerievixen @readingwritingwatching @peacecoffeeandflowers @a-frog-with-a-laptop @shadowqueen25 @lana08 @highladyofillyria @rachelnicolee @ladespedidas @little-darlingo @manonblackbeakquidditchteam13 @demirunner @terorovaerangi @hauntedandhopeful  @younxii @microwaveallthedemons @fanfictioniseverything @lovra974 @maddietheshoe @peaceandcrackers @emy1-9 @lostinfantasyworldsbi @issybee0611 @thoughtfulshepherdmongerkid @belledawnidk @whhyyynottt @dream-alittlebiggerdarling @littlebbb @piceous21 @sevendeadlyshins-blog @searchingford  @marigold-morelli @thesapphiclibrarian @

#ialtpwf #acotar #nesta archeron #nesta archeron x eris vanserra #nesta archeron x reader #neris #neris x reader #neris fluff #neris smut #eris vanserra #eris vanserra x reader #eris vanserra x oc #acosf #gwynriel #gwynriel fic #lucien #lucien vanserra #lucien vanserra x reader #pro gwynriel #gwyneth berdara #anti ic #anti rhysand #anti nessian #anti inner circle #anti feysand #acosf au #acosf rewrite #anti acosf #sjm #azriel

[shadowisles-writes]

ACOTAR Writing Circle Masterlist

Posting dates: 1: August 13th; 2: August 27th; 3: September 10th

smut = *

Gwynriel

Inked Lillies, part 2, part 3 @headcanonheadcase (shadowsingerofnight, ofduskanddreams)

The Capri-Sun Girl, part 2*, part 3 @ofduskanddreams (headcanonheadcase, hlizr50)

Delectable, part 2, part 3 @hlizr50 (violet-shadows, thehaemanthus)

Elucien

We Could Pretend to Form an Attachment, part 2, part 3 @velidewrites (the-lonelybarricade, azrielshadowssing)

The Leap of Faith, part 2, part 3 @shadowsingerofnight (ofduskanddreams, velidewrites)

Tethered, part 2, part 3 @azrielshadowssing (velidewrites, shadowsingerofnight)

Nessian

Measuring up., part 2, part 3* @violet-shadows (thehaemanthus, headcanonheadcase)

Feysand

Glass of Your Rearview*, part 2, part 3* @the-lonelybarricade (azrielshadowssing, violet-shadows)

Haves and Have-Nots, part 2, part 3 @thehaemanthus (hlizr50, the-lonelybarricade)

#acotarwritingcircle #gwynriel #elucien #nessian #feysand #gwynriel fanfiction #elucien fanfiction #nessian fanfiction #feysand fanfiction #gwynriel fic #elucien fic #nessian fic #feysand fic #gwynriel fluff #elucien fluff #nessian fluff #feysand fluff #gwynriel smut #elucien smut #nessian smut #feysand smut