#lucien x jesminda

[separatist-apologist]

His eyes were on her before she was close enough to speak. Could he scent her fear? “Mother says we owe you a copper mark.”

Lucien’s lips curled into a smile. “Ah. You liked the dress, then?”

“If I had known, I would have told you not to spend so much on it,” she said just a shade too defensively.

“And risk not seeing you wear it?” he replied, leaning forward with interest. “Did you try it on?”

“Not yet,” she admitted. “I…I didn’t want to mess it up.”

“Impossible,” he dismissed, swinging easily back to the ground. His boots slammed to the earth heavily, practically shaking the world around them.

Jes couldn’t move as he approached her, eyes locked on his perfect, handsome face. 

“Your mark,” she whispered, holding it between them.

“Keep it,” Lucien murmured. “It was your mother who did me a favor.”

“How?”

He reached out his broad hand for one of her curls, holding it lightly between his fingers. “I wanted to give you something you had to accept.”

Jes couldn’t help her spluttering laugh. “Lucien!”

“Ah, there it is,” he grinned. “Lucien. I was wondering if I'd ever hear my name on your lips. That is payment enough.”

“It is hardly payment at all!” she protested, trying to push that coin into his hand. 

“A kiss, then?” Lucien asked her, his words far too sensual to be playful. Jes’s breath caught in her throat.

“And you’ll take the copper mark?”

“For a kiss? I’ll take anything you offer.”

“A foolish bargain, even for you,” she teased. “What if I offered you death?”

“What a way to go,” he murmured, still holding that piece of hair in his hands. “Do you accept?”

“One kiss for this coin?” she clarified. Lucien’s eyes burned as he nodded, that familiar intensity returning to his features. Standing beneath a moonless sky, witnessed only by the swaying whisper of the trees, Jesminda thought it was safe enough. She would kiss his rough stubbled cheek, give him the copper mark, and run home before she gave in to her daydreams. Jes had to surge upwards on her tiptoes to reach him, hands steady at her sides. Lucien tracked every movement the way a predator might, his broad chest utterly still.

She had all but reached his skin when he turned his head, fingers threading through her hair, and pressed his lips to hers. All her carefully held control snapped the moment she inhaled the salt of his skin and tasted the masculine bent of his mouth. Lucien groaned, fingers knotted in her hair while his other gripped her hip to pull her into his body. 

If she’d been smart, she might have ended things right there. It was still perfectly chaste, still well within the bounds of one kiss. His tongue darted, sliding against the seam of her lips and instinctively her lips parted to let him in as her own arms snaked around his neck.

The bargain between them was satisfied but they were not. She sighed, meeting his tongue between their lips to taste him deeper, pressing herself against the length of him. She’d imagined this moment since they met, had wondered what it would be like to kiss not Lord Vanserra, but wild, wonderful Lucien. 

Fevered and nearly frenzied, Jes matched him kiss for kiss, each sliding into the next until his back was pushed up against the tree he’d been reclining in, chasing his taste, his touch, his scent. She was at risk of losing herself on the forest floor, of begging him to rut her like an animal. Already, Jes could feel proof of his want lodged against the bone of her hip though unlike other males, Lucien didn’t assault her with the knowledge or grind against her. It was merely there the way any other part of him was. He seemed more fascinated to touch her hair, her face, her shoulders while she ran desperate, needy hands up and down his chest.

Jes broke the kiss, stumbling backwards. She fished the copper mark out of her dress pocket with a trembling, sweaty hand. “Here,” she whispered, blinking rapidly as she tried to temper her desire. Lucien was duty bound by the bargain to accept, his back still pressed to the tree trunk. He slid the coin into his pants, eyes never leaving her face.

“I…” “Don’t,” she said quickly, afraid he was about to apologize. She wasn’t sorry and couldn’t stand the thought of him ruining the moment with his Lordly manners or his insistence the kiss had been a mistake. “I’ll see you around, Lucien.”

He shuddered, eyes closing for a moment. She turned her back though instinct told her not to, that he was a predator and would track her down.

“Jes!” he called after her retreating form. “Will I see you at the festival?”

She looked over her shoulder, back to the wild male she knew she couldn’t stay away from—wouldn’t stay away from. Maybe he belonged to the nobility. 

But he belonged to the trees, too, just the same as her. 

“You will,” she agreed. Lucien nodded, taking a gulp of air.

“Good. I might die if I don’t.” Jes held his gaze for only a moment. 

“I might, too.”

#it was rare i was there #they make me sad #lucien x jesminda #late night ramblings #lucien vanserra

[acourtofthought]

If Lucien loved Jesminda so much that he believed she was his mate,

........until he found out Elain is his mate,

....................does it seem realistic that he could love someone else more than that?

The only possible love greater than loving someone to the point that you're convinced you share in the most sacred of bonds is to fall in love with your actual Cauldron blessed mate.

Say Lucien were to develop feelings for another female, he'd never love her to the point that even without confirmation of a bond, he believed her to be his mate the way he once did. Jesminda claimed that title for him.

He'll always know she can't be his mate. Elain holds that title for him.

From a literary standpoint, there would be no where left for Lucien to romantically go except downhill and that's SJMs doing. She has already given Lucien the two most romantic setups imaginable.

He and Elain could reject the bond but what other female could then compete with the way he loved Jesminda? This isn't a real life scenario, I think we all realize that you can love many people equally throughout our own lives. But we don't have soul bonded pairings like the fae.

So anyone Lucien is with will not only realize she'll never be his mate but also that he'll never have himself convinced that their bond will someday snap because his love is so strong. It would make no sense for SJM to recycle either of those scenarios for Lucien with a third female.

I stand by the belief that only scenario that could come close to Lucien's love for Jesminda is he and Elain ending up as a truly soul bonded pair. It's not something that needed to happen instantly or without obstacles but at the end of it all, that level of epicness would be the only thing to surpass what he felt for his lost love.

#pro elucien #elucien #lucien vanserra #jesminda #mating bond #elain and lucien #lucien and elain #elain x lucien

[infinitefolklore]

Lucien Vanserra POV:

Oh, simple thing, where have you gone?

I'm getting old, and I need something to rely on

So, tell me when you're gonna let me in

I'm getting tired, and I need somewhere to begin

And if you have a minute, why don't we go

Talk about it somewhere only we know?

This could be the end of everything

So, why don't we go somewhere only we know?

Somewhere only we know

Somewhere Only We Know - Keane

#lucien vanserra #pro lucien vanserra #headcanon #elucien #acotar #pro elucien #elain x lucien #jesminda #autumn court #lucien vanserra playlist

[juulle987]

I Hope She Makes You Happy

⋆ ✶ ★ ☾ ★ ✶ ⋆ Lucien Vanserra x y/n

summary: You and Lucien have been friends for some time now. You’ve got feelings for the red head. But does he feel the same?

words: 2.9k

TW: mentions of alcohol, language, implied smut, it gets a bit steamy 🔥, fluff, a bit of angst

note: English is not my first language, so apologies for any mistakes

🦊

It was a normal weekend in Velaris, which means that me and my two best friends got ready to go to Rita’s. I wear a black long sleeved laced crop top, with a black bralet sewn into the top, a floor long black skirt that started just shyly above my navel and had a thigh high slit on both legs, and black glitter high heels. Maybe today I could finally get a male to turn his attention to me. I don’t want to say that I was desperate, but by the Cauldron…

“Y/n, have you got any make up?”

“Yeah sure. Just right over there in that tiny bag”, I pointed over to a chest of drawers. On top was a mirror and my make up bag. Admittedly, there wasn’t much in there but enough to keep me going. My friend, Kyara, applied some red lip stick and mascara. I did the same but added a black line of kohl on my upper eye lid. I just like how my y/e/c sparkle even more.

“Are you two finally ready?” Ophelia questioned us while taking a long sip from her wine. 

When she arrived at my apartment she was already fully dressed and dolled up. Basically just joining so she can empty my wine cupboard. She goes back into my kitchen and pours each of us another glass of wine. As Kyara and I move over to her, she gives us our glasses.

“To a lovely girls night out! And hopefully some willing males as I really need to get fucked!” I roll my eyes at Ophelia’s speech and we toast our glasses together. After we emptied our glasses we make our way to Rita’s. As usual we have to queue but luckily it’s summer and it goes rather quickly. As soon as we’re inside we’re being greeted by loud music, flickering lights and all scents imaginable - sweat, arousal, alcohol,… 

We make our way through the crowd towards the bar, (un)fortunately we don’t make it that far. There, leaning against the wall of a booth, he is standing. His red hair all flowing openly around his shoulders and back, some strands have been braided back tightly. He is wearing a casual white shirt and green pants, coupled with brown shoes. No boots this time then. Ok. He is holding a glass of red wine in his hand and seems a bit bored, being honest. He doesn’t seem to be engaged in the conversations the others have. Nor does he look at them. It nearly seems as if he’s having a secret conversation with his wine.

So I take my chance.

“LUUUCIIII!!!” I yell as loud as I can, open my arms wide as I walk just a tiny bit faster over to him. He puts his glass down and embraces me in a tight, warm hug. 

The scent I know all too well and love the most engulfs me: bonfire, fallen leaves and apple. Am I addicted to it? Definitely. Maybe. No, definitely. My hands go straight for his face, holding him while my thumbs caress his beautiful jaw line. Lucien wraps his arms around my hips and seems to be holding me impossibly tighter. Even after that hug he doesn’t let go of me and his hand lingers on the small of my back, while my hand lays flat on his chest, trying to savour his warmth and the feel of his muscles underneath.

Lucien leans down slightly and whispers in my ear “I missed you.”

“I missed you, too.” I can’t help the bright smile crossing my face.

He shortly lets go of me to go behind me and takes Ophelia and Kyara in a warm hug as well. They exchange short hellos and how are you’s before Lucien returns to me. Being honest I don’t pay much heep to the other people on that table, even though I know that it’s the High Lord and Lady and their Inner Circle. 

“Why didn’t you let me know you’re visiting?” I ask him while pouting and making puppy eyes.

“I didn’t plan on it. Rhysand told me just yesterday.” He gestures over to the High Lord. I turn my head towards all of them, nod my head in greeting and return to Lucien. Nevertheless I didn’t fail to see the look on their faces. Thousands of questions. Emotions written all over their faces. That’s not everything. I feel talons scraping at my mental shield, but I block them. 

Nice try, my High Lord. Come back when you’re less obvious trying to spy information from me.

I hear a low growl and know exactly that this did not please him. I couldn’t give a damn about it. Lucien has told me enough for me to not ever wanting to be a part of their elite circle. 

“How long are you going to stay?” I ask Lucien while my hand rests on his biceps. Not trying to make it too obvious that I’m more than just interested in this male.

“Let’s go over to the bar.”

All four of us leave the Inner Circle behind and make our way over to the bar. Tye, the bar keeper, already knows us and what we’re drinking: three white wines and one red. After that we go over to a round table with four chairs, sit down and start to converse. 

Lucien and I met a while back. Right after the war with Hybern. Ever since we’ve grown to be friends and I introduced him to my friends. So he’s very familiar with Kyara and Ophelia. The conversation is flowing smoothly. I’ve got the feeling this is what Lucien misses with the others. With us he can be more of his own self than with the Inner Circle. As we’re talking I can’t help but notice that we both are stealing glances of the other one. I mean, who could blame me? Lucien is by far one of the most beautiful males I’ve ever seen. If not the most beautiful. As his hand is resting on one of his thighs I take is hand in mine and with my thumb I start drawing small patterns on his palm. He on the other hand slowly strokes my arm with his other hand. If he continues like this I’m going to fuck him right here on this table. In front of everyone. 

A small giggle escapes his lips and I turn my head to him.

“What’s so funny?”

He leans over to me and whispers in my ear: “Don’t think I can’t smell you.” 

My face goes all red and I bite my lower lip.

“Didn’t get enough last time it seems.”

Last time… We were having a small gathering at my place and played Truth or Dare. I took dare and had to kiss the most beautiful person in the room. Which to be fair was an easy choice. But ever since that day my dreams are filled with his soft lips. The taste of him. His scent.

I throw him a raspberry at that and try to calm myself down. This male radiates too much heat. In all meanings.

“So, how are Vassa and Jurian doing? And the mortal lands? When are you taking us?”

Lucien laughs at Kyara’s questions but goes to answer her: “Everything’s fine. The two are bickering all the time but won’t admit that they fuck. Didn’t think through that I can hear and smell them.” 

We all laugh at his admission. Although I can’t fail to see the bit of hurt in his eyes. I know he wants someone he can love, cherish, worship. But I’m not sure if he can after everything that happened with Jesminda. She is also the reason I don’t jump straight onto Lucien’s cock whenever I see him. Or why I haven’t shared what I feel for him with him. I want to give him time. And I’m not even sure about the Elain situation. Elain. His mate. Who is hovering after another male as if she’s a bitch on heat. 

“You have to take us with you at some point”, I say after we’ve all calmed down from laughing.

“I’d love to. But are you three sure you want to go to the Mortal Lands?”

“Why not? I’m sure they won’t bite.”

“They may not bite, but they can do other things.” 

I see the memory playing in his mind and try to change the subject: “How about we all finally hit the dance floor. I mean that’s what we’re here for.” 

I grab Lucien’s hand even tighter and drag him with me to the dance floor. I just love dancing. Although I never would claim I’m good at it. Lucky for me Lucien, Kyara and Ophelia don’t make any fun of me. The songs are really good this time and I let my body flow to the rhythm of the music. Not caring about anything around me. That is until I feel two strong hands and arms wrapping around my waist, pulling me closer into a hard, muscled chest. I can feel the heat rising inside of me. I swear that sweat is starting to form on my forehead. I want him. I want him so badly. Especially now as Lucien’s hips are pushing impossibly closer into my backside and I can feel his hardened cock rubbing against the fabric of my skirt. A little moan escaping my lips. I lean my head back into his shoulder while his hands keep tracing up and down my torso. Ever so slightly leaving small trails around my breasts. I take one of his hands in mine and we interlace our fingers. My other arm and hand wrap around his head, playing with his red locks. I ankle my head to the side, my nose lightly pressing against his lower cheek. Mother boil me! I want to kiss him so badly. While looking into his russet and golden eyes, I have to bite my lower lip to not act on my feelings. Lucien leans down, our lips so close, not even a hair would fit through it. Before I can say or do anything his soft, delicious lips meet mine and he turns me around. I place my hands around his neck while his hands wrap around me hips, one of them going down to my bum, squeezing it ever so slightly. His tongue licks along my lips, asking for permission. I part my lips for him and in one swift motion our tongues are tangled. Oh Cauldron! This male just tastes so delicious. At the sensation of finally having this, my heart beats like crazy, my breathing is staggered. I’m totally and entirely lost in the moment. I got no idea how much time has past. Only when we let go of each other, lips all red and swollen, I manage to take in the others around me. The Inner Circle. Dancing, but still throwing daggers at me with their eyes. I look at Lucien. To my friends. I feel so embarrassed at this moment. Did Lucien only kiss me to make Elain jealous? To get any sort of reaction out of her? I let go of him. My arms falling slack beside me. I can’t breathe. I’ve got the feeling I’m drowning. I need to get out of here.

Without turning to my friends or Lucien, I just make my way outside. I got the feeling that the world is spinning. My mouth dry. My throat clenching together. I walk as fast as I can. Not wanting to see any of them. Thoughts racing through my mind. How could I’ve been so stupid? How could I’ve ever thought that he, Lucien, son of the Autumn Court High Lord, would feel the same way for me as I feel for him? How could I have not noticed his mate being on the dance floor before he started kissing me? I’m pretty sure that right at this moment he’s either making fun of me for being so easy and naïve or shoving his tongue down Elain’s throat. I can smell the salt of my tears. I feel how they are running down my cheeks. I don’t care. I just want to get home. Want to be curled up in my bed under my blankets. 

I make my way up to my apartment and smell him. The scent that always drove me crazy. Now it’s just a sign of my utter stupidity. It probably still lingers on my clothes, my skin. I desperately have to wash it off as soon as I’m home. I open my door and stare at the figure in front of me. Of course he winnowed inside of my flat.

“Get out.” I say as calmly as I can, still my voice is filled with bitterness.

“Y/n, please. It’s not what you think.”

“GET. OUT.” My face is covered in tears. I ball my hands into fists. I can’t decide whether I’m sad or angry. Probably both.

Lucien just stands there. Leaning against the kitchen counter. His arms crossed in front of him. I make my way to my kitchen, not because of him. I need a drink. A strong one. Especially now that he’s here. I walk past him and don’t even look at him.

As I go through my cupboards looking for my favourite whiskey, Lucien starts talking.

“I came to Velaris for two reasons, okay three. First I have meetings with Rhysand. But that’s unimportant. Second. I came here to talk to Elain. I basically broke the bond. Officially. I talked to her yesterday. I don’t have any feelings for her. I can somewhat still feel that bond, but it’s basically dead. She doesn’t desire me. I don’t desire her. Not anymore.”

At that I pour myself a big glass of whiskey and empty it half way. It burns its way down my tongue and throat, right into my stomach. Just what I needed.

“And the third reason. I met someone. She’s from Velaris.” 

I cross my arms over my chest and try not to explode. Is he seriously going to tell me this shit now? After everything that happened tonight?

“She’s … She had my heart from the second I saw her. She’s the most intelligent, most funny, caring, loving person I’ve ever met. I lost my heart to her. She is the one I want to spent the rest of my life with.”

I can’t stop the tears from falling. I just want to get out of here. My heart broken. Shattered on the floor and he’s stumping on it. I take another sip from my glass, put it back down on the counter and try to make my way to my bedroom. 

I stop for a second, looking up at him and say “I hope she makes you happy.”

“You do. You do make me happy.”

Am I going mad? Did I just hear that right? 

I openly stare at him. My mouth forming an ‘o’, my eyes wide.

“Y/n. It’s you.” He wraps his one arm around my waist and pulls me closer. His other hand goes to my cheek, wiping away some of the tears. Lucien brings his forehead to mine. I can feel his breath on my face. 

“It’s been you since the second I saw you in that book store.” A kiss to my nose. 

“From that moment on all I could think about was you.” Another kiss to my forehead. “After we kissed during that stupid game”, a kiss to my one cheek, “all I could think about was your scent. Your lips. Your taste.” A kiss to my other cheek. 

“To have my arms wrapped around you. To feel your heartbeat. To smell you at day and night.” 

He kisses my lips. I can’t control my breathing. My heart seems to be jumping out of me chest. 

“All I could think about was how you’d be the first I see in the morning, and the last I see at night.” Another kiss to my lips. 

With my hands I reach up to cup is face. Placing a small kiss to his lips. 

“For you to be by my side. For you to follow me, for me to follow you no matter where our future will lead us.” 

“Lucien…”

He kisses me again while pulling me even closer to him. My fingers trace the scars on his face. I wanted to touch them for so long. Letting him know how much I love everything about him. Lucien leans is head down to nozzle my nose.

“It’s always been you.” His voice merely a whisper. Before he can kiss me I slightly jump up, wrap my legs tightly around his waist and my arms around his neck while his hands grab my thighs. I place a passionate kiss onto his lips. Nibbling them slightly before I let go. I put my forehead to his and say softly “It’s always been you.”

Relief seems to be trailing through his body at my words and at that he embraces me in a long kiss. Lips parting to let the other one in. Savouring the taste of each other. The kiss is filled with passion, lust, wanting, love, desire. 

All this time. All this time we’ve been two idiots in love. A love stronger than any mating bond.

“I’m sorry.” I say after we’ve kissed each other breathless. “I’m sorry for how I reacted.”

“No need to be sorry, sunshine. But if you like you could show me just how sorry you really are.” He winks at me as he carries me into my bedroom.

Needless to say I was in for a long night of ‘apologies’ 

#acotar #sjmass #sjm fic #lucien vanserra #lucien acotar #lucien x reader #lucien vanserra x reader #anti inner circle #anti rhysand #best friends #friends to lovers #two idiots in love #jesminda #elain archeron #mating bond

[vulpes-fennec]

The Fae Equality Initiative (Ch. 5) 🌊

Summary: Tarquin, High Lord of the Summer Court, has sent ripples of shock throughout Prythian with his plans to eliminate discrimination against Lesser Fae. When the Night Court is invited to send a delegation to Summer Court, Elain Archeron can’t wait to show everybody what she’s capable of on her first official Inner Circle assignment. Little does she know that Tarquin has also recruited Lucien Vanserra’s assistance…

Read: Ch. 4 | AO3

“Lucien, I’m so, so, sorry,” Tarquin repeated again and again. It unnerved Lucien to have the High Lord of Summer apologizing so profusely in his room after dinner. 

“Tarquin, it’s fine. Truly,” Lucien sighed for the umpteenth time, “I’m here to support you. This…arrangement simply slipped through the cracks! And as perfect as I am, I cannot expect your life to revolve around me.” Lucien’s mouth twitched with humor. 

Tarquin’s turquoise eyes flared at Lucien. “How can you joke at a time like this?” he cried. “This is a diplomatic disaster!” 

“Tarquin. Do you seriously think I would let a mate—” Lucien tried to keep his voice light at the last two words “—severely affect my dedication to this? I’m not abandoning you just because she showed up. She and I don’t even talk to each other!”

“That is precisely the problem!” Tarquin protested. “This conference is all about collaboration and communication. When was the last time you and Elain spoke to each other?” 

Lucien chose to ignore Tarquin’s question, instead patting the High Lord’s shoulder assuringly. “Don’t worry, Tarquin. I’ve been an emissary longer than you’ve been alive, navigating many uncomfortable situations with a fair amount of composure. Besides, I highly doubt our paths will intercept much.”

“Longer than I’ve been alive? Your old age is showing, Lucien.” Tarquin rolled his eyes. “Don’t get too boastful, because Elain might be the one to disarm your composure. She is planning to stay the whole duration of the conference,” he pointed out. “Just like you.” 

Lucien’s heart quickened at the possibility of seeing Elain more frequently in the next few weeks. The last few years he’d only seen her a handful of times in Velaris. He steeled his expression as he shoved the feeling down. Just the mating bond speaking, he believed. It’s an unrealistic hope, a fool’s dream that she would even be receptive towards me but… 

He gave the High Lord of Summer a tart smile and waved his hand dismissively. “Again, I’m sure there are plenty of assignments to do, sights to see in Adriata that will keep us apart. I shall remain, and deal any Elain-related issues privately.”

A strange look came over Tarquin’s face, like he had experienced deja vu. “What?” Lucien asked. 

Tarquin shook his head. “Nothing…I have to finish up some work. Feel free to enjoy your free day tomorrow, but don’t forget about the subcommittee meeting.” He yawned and rolled his shoulders.

“Sweet dreams,” Lucien replied to his friend. Once Tarquin was gone, Lucien brushed his teeth, stripped off his clothes, and sank into the bathtub. The near-boiling hot water relaxed him after a long, long day. 

Lucien swirled his fingers in the water, recalling how Elain Archeron and the Night Court delegation had hoofed it out of Tarquin’s Great Hall once dinner was over. Lucien knew his mate had been looking at him several times throughout the meal, for his skin prickled every time she curiously turned her big brown eyes on him. He had been working up the nerve to talk to her throughout the meal as he chatted with Luke and Ellias, but she left early. It’s not like I ever came up with anything to say, Lucien thought ruefully. 

Lucien settled in the bed, the sheets cool against his naked skin. Silver starlight twinkled outside his window. He spent a few minutes appreciating their beauty, picking out the constellations as he did in his youth. With Jesminda. Jesminda, he sent out into the void. It’s finally happening. Tarquin…he’s doing what I’ve always wanted to do for you. Jesminda…so many of the other courts are here. If only you could see this. They’re more open-minded towards the Lesser Fae than ever and I—I just wonder what could have been, you know? If we were born in a different time. A time when they didn’t care about what kind of Fae you were. 

Silence. Lucien sighed, averting his eyes from the stars and towards the dark corners of the room. He hadn’t expected the years and decades to dull the pain and the love he’d experienced for Jesminda. Sure, he no longer felt like crying whenever he recalled her last moments and he’d stopped comparing sex with what making love with Jesminda felt like long ago. But he also couldn’t remember the exact texture of her gossamer wings. Or the placement of blemishes on her jade green skin. It wasn’t supposed to be like this. 

Because despite the years Jesminda and I had with each other, and my memories are being lost to the sands of time. Meanwhile, I barely spent any time with Elain and yet…Lucien could remember everything. From the way her hair curled over her shoulder in the sunlight to the short, square nails on her slender fingers. The two small creases between her brows whenever she was thinking hard about something. Her solid, drenched body that had clung to him when she tumbled out of the Cauldron. 

Perhaps this is why Jesminda and I were never meant to be. But did she have to DIE for me to realize that? Lucien shook his head. And still the Mother gave me a mating bond that would never come to fruition…Elain, Elain, Elain, his mate instincts urged him. 

Lucien clenched his fists and shut his eyes, willing the mate instincts to shut up. All Elain will do the next few weeks is avoid me, then stare at me, then avoid me some more. He waited for his heart to stop racing, the fire in his veins to stop their nonsensical yearning. Tarquin had a point: this would be the first time the two would be in unsupervised close proximity for a prolonged period of time. Perhaps the next few weeks will be more interesting than I anticipated. 

***

The sun was high in the sky when Lucien finally got out of bed. He’d woken up earlier, but allowed himself to fall back asleep. I need a vacation, he’d justified it to himself blearily. The last few months have been non-stop work: negotiations, emissary reports, mediating Jurian and Vassa’s bickering…

Lucien donned a white button up shirt and olive pants that would cool him down in Summer’s heat. After meticulously combing his slightly tangled locks, his fingers deftly arranged his flaming red hair into a braid. My friends—Viviane, Luke, Tamlin—are busy breaking ground with their own delegation, so another day in Adriata to myself would be perfect. 

But before I leave…

Lucien’s gaze drifted towards the window, his metal eye whirring. Spindly like cobwebs, the spells and wards glimmered in mid-air. The tendrils of magic were of varying thickness and colors; some were green and blue, others were purple and red. 

He’d lied, when he told Feyre and Rhysand that his metal eye allowed him to see spells and wards. He had been seeing them ever since he was a young child. And even if he lost his other eye—the Mother forbid—Lucien surmised that he could still sense the spells and wards present. 

Growing up in the cutthroat Autumn Court, Lucien learned very quickly to keep any advantages he had under wraps. Yet his horrendous brothers and Beron Vanserra could sense that the seventh son of the High family was different. Was it a blessing that they automatically assumed I was MORE powerful, instead of realizing I had DIFFERENT powers? Not that it matters…they were horrible to me regardless.  

Lucien winced, remembering one time he revealed his hand: when he broke free of the King of Hybern’s spelled cuffs to reach Elain. It was foolish, utterly foolish to reveal himself as a spellmaster in front of such a foe, but Lucien was motivated to do something when he saw Elain’s pitiful, limp form. His regret worsened when he remembered how he kept his power on a tight leash that fateful day Jesminda died. He should have never spent so long calculating how the different scenarios would play out, should have incinerated his brothers to ashes and stabbed his father in the chest instead. Lucien thought he’d foolishly risked everything for a human stranger at Hybern. But it turned out she was his Cauldron-ordained mate. 

Lucien narrowed his eyes in concentration, summoning the thrumming power of golden light within him that was so different from the heat of his flame. Undoing the spells in place was like unraveling a ball of yarn: every piece led to another, and parsing out the different knots required patience. That’s the easy part. The hard part is replicating the spells and making sure the creator of the spells doesn’t realize they’ve been broken. 

He’d done it several times before, most notably when he undid Koschei’s cursed spell right under the death lord’s nose. The trick is to create a glamour so strong, so uncanny in its resemblance to the original spell that no one will know. Except me. Understanding the nuances of each spell was like understanding other people. And Lucien felt he was pretty good at understanding people (except for Elain). No two spells were the same, and they each had their own twists and turns. 

Lucien discreetly slid his own copy of the wards through the air while gently slicing the original bindings. He paused, tilting his head to feel for any disturbance in the space, to listen for any alarms sounding through the air. Nothing. I guess I’m not as rusty as I thought. His chest puffed slightly with renewed confidence. Before he left, Lucien threw up some of his own wards, since the glamours weren’t actually effective at keeping real threats away.  

***

Adriata glimmered in the midday sun. Despite the heat, the trees and light breeze kept Lucien cool as he hiked up the slopes. Terracotta roofs adorned the white buildings in the city’s bustling squares. Curious-looking, vibrant flowers of magenta, red, yellow, and green swayed in hanging planters and draped over the walls. Elain would probably know what flowers these are. 

Lucien shoved the thought of Elain out of his mind as he continued wandering the streets. A cerulean blue-skinned faerie with long black hair and small velvet wings was hawking a food stall. Lucien purchased several white round buns for lunch, savoring the sweetness of the pork stuffing as he walked. 

There was a miniature city park that was a nice place to stop and rest. The tiny square had a grove of trees, several iron and wood benches, and an ornate babbling fountain. Two Fae younglings, both with cerulean blue skin and black velvet wings, played in the far corner of the park as their mother watched them. Lucien inspected the details of the fountain, appreciating the carvings of varied tropical fishes and speckled coral. There were also several coins glimmering under the rippling water. 

Lucien fished out a bronze coin of his own, turning it in his hand as he pondered a wish. Too many things need fixing in this world, too big for a humble fountain wish. Lesser Fae equality. Dignity and protection for the humans. A sense of belonging. For Elain to smile at me again…

He was interrupted by a commotion behind him. A Fae male, with brassy brown hair and pointed ears, was standing in front of the Fae family. “—are not welcome here!” his voice boomed. “This is a private park.” The Fae younglings had moved behind their mother, looking like they were about to cry. 

The mother stood defiantly, her lithe and tall stature bringing her to equal height with the Fae male. He was nobility, from the looks of his fancy clothing and obnoxious swagger. “Sir, this is a public park,” she replied. “My children are simply playing on this fine afternoon.” 

The Fae noble scoffed, somehow managing to look down on the family with his green eyes. “Public park it may be, but the likes of your kind are not welcome in this district.” He took a step closer, intimidating her with his brawn. 

She flinched. “Our High Lord Tarquin has decreed that public and private spaces are for all Fae to enjoy equally,” she responded, but her once-clear voice was now quiet. 

The male sneered derisively. “That decree has not yet taken effect. Or are you illiterate, too?” 

This isn’t right, Lucien thought as he began moving swiftly to the family. Red hot anger coursed through him at the mistreatment. The poor children just wanted a place to play, and now they’re being harassed by this disgusting male who has nothing better to do. And this IS a public park; I didn’t see any signage or enclosures that indicated otherwise. 

Lucien placed himself between the male and the family. “They’re with me,” he said coolly, staring the male down. “I suggest you stop harassing them this instant.” The Fae noble blinked, bewildered at Lucien’s sudden appearance. 

He then snorted. “Do you think I’m so stupid that I would ever think this is truly your family?” Lucien clenched his fists, willing his face to remain impassive. Beron had said the same thing once. He’d mocked the idea of Jesminda and I ever having a family together. “The Lesser Fae are sullying our neighborhoods and parks with their presence.” The noble managed to emphasize the forbidden phrase with added venom. 

“The only things sullying these neighborhoods and parks are your own disgusting beliefs,” Lucien retorted. “Like I said. Leave. Them. Alone.” Lucien allowed the barest hint of flame to sizzle in his eye. The other male’s green eyes widened in fear at the display of dominance, before turning around and walking briskly away. 

Once the aggressor was gone, Lucien heard the mother sigh with relief. “I’m very sorry that happened to you,” he said, turning around to make sure the family was unharmed. 

The mother took one look at Lucien’s handsome face and blushed, her blue cheeks darkening. “Thank you for helping us,” she replied, bowing quickly. Her children, one boy and one girl, peeked out from behind her dress. “Usually my husband comes to the parks with us, because no one dares to bother us when he’s wearing his Summer Court Guard uniform. He got called on an extra shift today, but you didn’t have to go through the trouble, my lord.” 

Lucien shook his head. “It was just the right thing to do. And I’m not a lord…my name is Lucien.” He held out his hand for the mother to shake. 

“Lucien. It is very nice to meet you.”

Resources linked here!

Read: Ch 6

#psa that lucien sleeps naked #before anybody gets ahead of themselves there are NO romantic tones between lucien and the mom #navigating jesminda and lucien is so hard ngl #elucien #elucien fanfic #elucien fanfiction #elain archeron #lucien vanserra #tarquin acotar #summer court #acotar #acotar fanfiction #elain x lucien #lucien x elain

[ramim]

This is going to warm your luzriel heart 😁

And a snippet to prepare you for our lovely idiot:

Lucien believed listening was the hottest thing any male could do and the Shadowsinger (whom Lucien was officially on the first name level from now) was being too hot! Like white fire hot! Like if the sun was in reaching distant and Lucien was touching it! and as if that wasn't enough, Azriel opened his mouth and Lucien's soul left his body: "where do you think we should start?"

#lucien vanserra #lucien acotar #acotar #lucien #acofas #acomaf #a court of thorns and roses #a court of mist and fury #a court of wings and embers #acosf #luzriel #lucien × azriel #tamlin x lucien #tamlin × lucien #tamlin acotar #tamlin #jesminda × lucien #azriel shadowsinger #azriel+x+lucien #azrien

[darklove9314-blog]

Okay so I’m in the mood for some forbidden love/ Secret Relationship tropes/ prompts, feel free to send some in!!

#nesta archeron #nessian #cassian #nesta #elain archeron #lucien vanserra #jesminda acotar #azriel shadowsinger #gwyn berdara #elucien #elriel #gwynriel #helion x lady vanserra #acotar #acomaf #acowar #acofas #ACOSF

[thehighladywrites]

THE VANSERRA BROTHERS, NSFW ALPHABET

pairing: lucien vanserra x reader, eris vanserra x reader, azriel and rhys mentioned

summary: doing the nsfw alphabet with the vanserras!

warnings: obviously nsfw, 18+, tw: beron🤢

amara’s note: doing it for my criminally underrated babes, trust there will be more vanserra content

A = Aftercare (what they’re like after sex)

Eris: If this man is not in love with you or you’re a one night stand and a random person, i don’t think there’ll be much aftercare tbh. He would not be cruel, he would just not care. If he’s in love with you he takes care of you, is very caring and has a routine he follows. Cuddles is very important when ur mated bc he is criminally touched starved

Lucien: He is nice whether he’s in love or not. I believe Lucien makes ppl fall in love with him unintentionally bc of his caring nature. But he would def clean you up and let you cuddle next to him.

B = Body part (their favorite body part of theirs and also their partner’s)

Eris: For him: his fingers, he’s super skilled with them and he knows how to really use them. They look very nice too. For his partner: Their ass bc he’s an ass slaper and i will not elaborate

Lucien: For him: his tounge/mouth. Makes people go insane. For his partner: anything he can put his hands on. He does not discriminate, he loves every part of your body and he will show it

C = Cum (anything to do with cum, basically)

Eris: loves painting your face. I’ll be so real, i see him smirking down at you when he cums on your face bc now you’re marked as his, the ultimate claim

Lucien: he loooooooves coming inside. Having your warmth wrapped around his sensitive cock as he spills his cum inside is his fav thing on earth

D = Dirty secret (pretty self explanatory, a dirty secret of theirs)

Eris: You’re the dirty secret. No one knows about you, and i mean NO ONE bc he knows what happened to Jesminda and he will not let it happen to you

Lucien: before you got together, he used to make up scenarios in his head with you. Dirty scenarios but also sweet ones and he will never ever admit it ever

E = Experience (how experienced are they? do they know what they’re doing?)

Eris: tbh not a lot. with beron🤢 around, he has more important things to focus on like his survival and taking over the throne. He has had sex a handful of times but he doesn’t actively seek it out bc you know, he’s trying not to die

Lucien: okay so js like eris, i think he didn’t have a lot of time to have sex while he was in autumn. when he moved to spring, it was like a college student experiencing freedom for the first time. sorry but he becomes the sluttiest sexual being in prythian after helion. i fully believe lucien has been fucking around in every court, every city, every town. I know this male has a bunch of fans around prythian who pray they run into him again

F = Favorite position (this goes without saying)

Eris: missionary, spooning, mating press

Lucien: 69, doggy, cowgirl with his hands behind his head as he watched with a smirk (slut move)

G = Goofy (are they more serious in the moment? are they humorous? etc.)

Eris: He isn’t very goofy, more serious when he is with a one night stand but with his mate he lets loose, he has fun and is very playful. 100% mocks your moans and very gently dumbs you down.

Lucien: is a jokester through and through, he makes dirty jokes, makes you giggle and is just a fun male to bed

H = Hair (how well groomed are they? does the carpet match the drapes? etc.)

Eris: he trimms, regulary and is very particular about it. he has a happy trail😫

Lucien: either clean shaved or trimmed too. might fuck around and trim a lightning bolt just for funsies

I = Intimacy (how are they during the moment? the romantic aspect)

Eris: very romantic, in the bedroom it’s just you and him alone and he will pour his entire soul out, he will lay himself bare. It was something he didn’t wanna do at first be he has grown more comfortable with intimacy. He is very touch starved so any sort of intimacy soothes him

Lucien: a loverboy. he loves the closeness of being intimate, he loves how it is a private moment between two people and he will def make it a goal to be intimate atleast once a day

J = Jack off (masturbation headcanon)

Eris: would jerk off sometimes pre mated, but with a mate, he just fucks if he’s horny and you allow it

Lucien: jacks off infront of you, mutual masturbation is his thing. he does it while he is away at missions and imagine you in his head

K = Kink (one or more of their kinks)

Eris: mommy kink, breeding, daddy kink, orgasm control, exhibitionism

Lucien: daddy kink, overstimulation, temperature play, spanking

L = Location (favorite places to do the do)

Eris: He prefers to be at home, whether it's in the bedroom, shower, or living room - anywhere familiar enough to make him feel secure. It's not just for his sake, but for yours as well. Being in a familiar environment allows him to be at ease, knowing the layout of the house so he can better protect you. In this comfort zone, he can relax and take his time, making sure youre safe.

Lucien: risky places, anywhere and everywhere. throne room, rhysands library, the spring gardens, behind ritas, on top of his kitchen table, just everywhere

M = Motivation (what turns them on, gets them going)

Eris: you having an attitude is a one way ticket to getting some dick. eris loves when you banter and he loves how feisty you get when you’re arguing with him. It’s a massive turn on seeing you all worked up. he’s a little shit so he provokes you to get you more worked up

Lucien: he loves seeing you all bruised up and tired after sex, it makes him go crazy knowing it’s him doing it to you. Just you covered in his marks is enough to get him going. Fucking loves it when other ppl see it, Rhys mentioned it once and Lucien’s head damn near couldn’t fit through the door bc it so fucking big

N = No (something they wouldn’t do, turn offs)

Eris: humiliation. he knows first hand how it feels to be humiliated by someone who is supposed to be a loved one, so he will never ever do anything that will make you sad. also anything that hurts you physically such as knife play, extreme spanking and hardcore bdsm is a massive no. he wants to bring you pleasure not pain.

Lucien: he will absolutely not share you with anyone, it’s a massive no bc he wants any intimacy ti remain between you. He couldn’t live knowing someone looked at you as you came or experienced pleasure. it’s for him and him only

O = Oral (preference in giving or receiving, skill, etc.)

Eris: lovessss receiving. there’s just something about your mouth wrapped around his cock that drives him to the edge of insanity. He loves making eye contact with you when you blow him, and if you keep it, he’ll nut within seconds. The visual of you on your knees makes him lose it, and he’ll cum right on your face, usually without warning. He apologizes right after though. he’s also very good at giving too, trust me this man is good

Lucien: EATER EATER EATER EATERRR, holy fuck this male eats good. he eats like he’s starving, i’m talking messy, spitting, licking, sucking. ugh he’s a munch

P = Pace (are they fast and rough? slow and sensual? etc.)

Eris: depends on your mood, if you guys are hot and bothered then he will be a bit more rough. Otherwise he takes his time, worshipping every inch of you.

Lucien: he’s a slow sensual one and it drives you crazy bc no matter how needy you are, he will drag it out bc he loves seeing the desperation on your face. He also wants to savor the moment

Q = Quickie (their opinions on quickies, how often, etc.)

Eris: views them as a challenge, he likes to see just how quickly he can make both you and him cum in a short span of time. It’s not his preference but he still thinks it’s fun

Lucien: loves quickies bc he will do it everywhere, and i mean everywhere as long as no one gets to see your pretty face. will happily take you to a closet, someones bedroom, a basement, behind a rock js anywhere really

R = Risk (are they game to experiment? do they take risks? etc.)

Eris: down to experiment with anything as long as it isn’t hurtful to you

Lucien: his limits are your limits. he’s down to try anything at least once and if it doesn’t work out then it doesn’t work out

S = Stamina (how many rounds can they go for? how long do they last?)

Eris: he’s a high fae, bro has unlimited stamina but he’ll go as long as you want

Lucien: until you’re tired, just like eris, he’s high fae so he doesn’t get tired

T = Toys (do they own toys? do they use them? on a partner or themselves?)

Eris: didn’t own any toys before you. he uses them primarily on you. would be open to the idea if you wanted to experiment. he likes using those couple toys where ur both get stimulation

Lucien: Has used and will use almost every toy known. Loves using them on you and watching you use them. mutual masturbation goes crazy tbh.

U = Unfair (how much they like to tease)

Eris: he’s a slutty one ngl he likes to tease just as much as he likes to be teased. he’ll do it accordingly tho bc he doesn’t like wanna deprive you of pleasure. he’s very unfair when ur being mouthy tho

Lucien: : It’s ridiculous with the amount that he likes to tease. He builds you up with his mouth, bringing you just dangling at the edge before pulling away. can be very VERY unfair but just like eris, he always satisfies you

V = Volume (how loud they are, what sounds they make, etc.)

Eris: okay so i fully believe he isn’t loud in the beginning bc he’s reserved. so like the first few times you have sex, he holds back and when you tell him to relax and to enjoy himself he let’s go. He’s a moaner and a groaner. Eris will let out the prettiest sounds when he’s close, murmuring curse words under his breath and talking about how good you feel around him.

Lucien: mostly soft grunts, raspy moans, quiet whimpers and literally does not shut up with praise, ever. so imagine those slutty raspy moans, yeah that’s him

W = Wild card (a random headcanon for the character)

Eris: Fantasy is to fuck you and have Azriel walk in because he knows he's into you and it'll show him exactly who it is that you belong to. He would actually die of happiness if it ever happened

Lucien: he loves it when you wear slutty clothes bc he gives ‘wear whatever u want i can fight’ energy and that’s so fucking hot of him. he also teaches you how to rizz. 1000% will do that scheme where you flirt with a stranger and then he comes up and acts like the jealous boyfriend

X = X-ray (let’s see what’s going on under those clothes)

Eris: big dick, but not uncomfy big. he didn’t think about the fact he has an impressive size until you start praising him and just keep talking about his size. he has a lean and lithe body, not super buff but he has muscles for SURE, i just know his arms are ridiculously big. his abs are very visible too

Lucien: come on guys. we all know he’s got a third leg, let’s not even start. he knows it, you know it, i know it, prythian knows it. Okay he had massive biceps, i’m talking ‘crush-someones-head-like-a-watermelon’ biceps. he has a sturdy chest and nice abs. he is a warrior, he is BUILTTTTTT

Y = Yearning (how high is their sex drive?)

Eris: listen he loves sex, he has a high drive and all but for him it’s touch. he yearns for anyone to touch him. he doesn’t voice it until ur mates bc he views it as a weakness to be touch starved until you tell him it’s okay, undoing centuries of berons🤢 disgusting words

Lucien: he has a high sex drive, he loves you, he loves sex and combining them is top tier

Z = Zzz (how quickly they fall asleep afterwards)

Eris: after aftercare, when ur all cleaned up and toasty under the covers, he’ll let himself sleep. he will stay up as long as ur awake

Lucien: he also cleans you up but he falls asleep first. his fav place is on top of you, under the covers with his head nuzzled into your neck

🏷️: @minaethrym @artists-ally @clairebear08 @redbleedingrose @berryzxx @thelov3lybookworm @cupidojenphrodite

#talkswithamara #acotar #a court of thorns and roses #acotar x reader #acotar imagine #eris vanserra #eris x fem reader #eris vanserra acotar #eris vanserra x reader #eris vanserra acowar #eris acowar #eris acotar #eris x reader #daddy eris #eris vanserra x you #eris vanserra x y/n #lucien vanserra x reader #lucien vanserra #lucien x reader #lucien acotar #pro lucien #pro eris vanserra #vanserra brothers #vanserra family #acotar fanfiction #acotar fanfic #acotar series #azriel #rhysand

[artists-ally]

{She Gets The Flowers, Right?} Lucien x Reader

You all can go and blame @thelov3lybookworm for the swarm of Lucien content y'all are gonna get from me. This is probably one of the saddest things I've ever written and it took me wwaayy back to a very shitty relationship I was in so if it seem extra personal it is 💀 Enjoy, title from this song!

Word Count: 3,108

Warnings: ANGST (just for you @bubybubsters) mentions of murder (in relation to Jesminda)

Summary: Lucine has been so focused on trying to win over Elain that he's never once stopped to consider that you're the one who's always been there for him.

~~~~~

The door slammed. A breath sighed from the entryway. I went stiff. 

“I don’t understand,” Lucien shouted. I could hear him kicking off his boots, hanging his jacket up on the rack by the door. “I thought we were finally making some progress and then nothing. Absolutely nothing today.”

I remained silent, swiping off the stuck scallions on my knife. “Sorry.”

“I mean, I get that she needs time to adjust, but Cauldron, Yn. It’s been nearly a year since the war ended. I’ve been patient, more than patient, and it’s like I’ve never made an effort.”

“Told you it was a bad idea.”

“What is it about me that she cannot stand? What does Azriel offer her that I don’t? He walks in the room and she lights up. What do I have to do to get her to look at me like that?” I just shrugged, moving to the sink to wash some sprouts and potatoes. Lucien was caught in this never ending cycle of trying to win over Elain. For the past year, almost year and a half, he has been torturing himself with something that obviously won’t be. 

“Do you think she’d enjoy it if I took her to the Summer Court? Maybe she’d enjoy a trip to Dawn?” Lucien sat at my kitchen table, tapping his heel on my hardwood floor with his arms crossed over his chest. “We did actually talk for a while today. She ended up telling me her plans for her fall garden.”

“Sounds nice.”

“But I just wish she would open up a little more. Every time we talk it’s like I have to pry it out of her.” “Mhmm.”

“It makes me so nervous when she closes up like this. I can’t imagine what is going through her head. She won’t tell me. She won’t tell anyone, which is concerning. I just wish she would at least tell someone about what is going on. I’d even be okay if she told Azriel.”

“Yeah.”

“If only she would just reach out. Even an inch, just tug on the bond and acknowledge that it’s there. It wouldn’t bother me as much if she would just give us a chance.”

Lucien continued to blabber again, droning on and on about how Elain won’t do this or talk about that. I tuned him out, biting back the sting of jealousy in my throat. That familiar prickle in my nose forced me to grip the spoon harder. 

He never listened to me anymore. He’d come and ask me for advice, to see what my opinion was on what he should do, and then blatantly do the opposite. But every time he came back, I’d give him more. Just like he was stuck in a loop with Elain, I was just as guilty of the same with him. 

I was the one who had found him on the border after his Jesminda was murdered. I had been there to help him get settled, to get revenge on his brothers who forced him to watch. For decades I have been doing the same thing he has for Elain. 

The only difference is I know how to take a hint. Luciene doesn’t. 

“... and then when I asked if she would join me for a walk, she refused. I mean, she knows how important it is to get outside every now and then. She had said she wanted to garden and plant new seedlings for the upcoming winter but… I don’t know what to do anymore.”

“Yeah I bet that’s tough.”

“Tough?” So he did know how to acknowledge the things I said. “It’s excruciating. You have no idea. Have you been listening to anything I’ve been saying?”

It took all the strength inside me to not hurl this knife at his head. “What’s the point anymore?”

“What?” “You don’t listen to anything I say anymore anyways, so why bother?” I snorted, shaking my head. “I could’ve announced my pregnancy right now and you would’ve been too lost in thought about her to even register.”

“You’re pregnant?” 

I slammed my knife down on the counter and whipped to face him. “No, I’m not. But if I was, I sure as hell wouldn’t tell you.”

“Why? We’re best friends, Yn. Don’t you think I’d wanna know if you were-”

“That is not the point of the conversation, Lucien,” I snapped. He just stared at me, waiting for an elaboration. I just sighed, “Whatever. Doesn’t matter.” “Did something happen today? You’re clearly in a bad mood.” “No. Absolutely nothing happened. Only that I had the grand opening of my restaurant today and you were nowhere to be found. You were with Elain.”

Lucien went silent. I could feel the energy shift from across the room. “Cauldron boil me… Yn I am so sorry. I thought that was next week, why didn’t you remind me yesterday?”

“I did,” I said. “I reminded you yesterday before you went up to the House to be with Elain. And the day before, and the day before that.”

“I think I would’ve remembered if-”

“Would you?” The tears were coming. Fast. It was a struggle to keep them from spilling over. “Because every time I’ve said anything, you’re talking about her. It’s always fucking her.”

“Why are you talking about Elain like that? What did she do to you?”

I just stopped moving. Stopped breathing. Stopped thinking. The chill that spread through my bones should’ve been enough to kill me. I ground my teeth together hard enough to crack. “Ever since we came to this gods damned Court all you have talked about is her. It’s like I’m not even here anymore.”

“That’s not true and you know it,” Lucien stood up. 

“When was the last time you asked how I was doing? If the designs for the menus are finished? If I’ve picked out new tiles for my bathing room or if I’ve finally finished that collage I was working on? How long has it been since we’ve been out together or gone diving in the Sidra? For fucks sake Lucien it’s like I’m best friends with a ghost.”

All Lucien offered was a turn of his palms, lips parting to answer but no words came out.

“Exactly. You can’t even remember. Any time we talk it’s always about her. It’s always Elain this and Elain that. I’m fucking sick of it, Lucien. You’re constantly asking for advice on what to do with her, but have you ever stopped and thought about what you’re doing?”

“Every day it haunts me that I can’t reach her, Yn,” Lucien's brows knit together. “I come to you because I value your advice.”

“Well you can stop. I don’t have any more to give. Now, you can either change the topic or get the fuck out because I’m sick of hearing about her. Today was supposed to be my day. I don’t ever ask you for anything, and this is the one thing I wanted. And you were supposed to be there for me, your friend, your best friend. But of course, the female who won’t give you the time of day has to take priority over someone you’ve known for almost a century.” 

“Are you so selfish that you can’t be happy for me for finding a mate after so many years? Are you that jealous that I’ve decided to spend some of my time with anyone else?”

Blinding red rage coursed through me. I let everything I had been holding back for months seep through. “How dare you say that to me.”

“Yn-”

“If you interrupt me I swear to the Mother that I will break your fucking neck.” I watched him swallow his response. “If you think I am unhappy with your bond then you don’t know me at all. I want nothing more than for you to be happy, Lucien. But I would be lying if I said it didn’t make me sick to my stomach.”

“Elain is sweet. Nurturing and caring,” Lucien pointed out. "What's so bad about that?"

“Does she know anything about you?”

 “We’ve… talked about some things.”

“So does she know about your brothers?” His face paled. “Does she know about all the fights you got in with Tamlin? Does she know about Jesminda or how many years it took you to be able to hear her name and not burst into tears at the first syllable?”

“That’s not fair.”

“I think it’s perfectly fair, Lucien,” I shouted. My skin was blisteringly hot. All control was quickly crumbling. “The moment Elain came along, you forgot all about me. I am the only living being that has been there with you through everything. Through the destruction of the Spring Court, through Hybern. You begged me to come with you to Velaris, I gave up everything for you.”

“You wanted to leave, too. Don’t put all this on me,” Lucien said, waving his arms in the air. 

“I did it because of you. How dense are you, Lucien? How blind are you to not see that every decision I have made since I met you has been for your well being?”

“I never asked that of you.”

“No, you didn’t. Because you’ve never once considered that I would do it without a second thought. I care about you. I was the one you wept to every time Elain rejected you, and yet, every single time you ran right back to her. I don’t know what you see in her. I think she has made it incredibly clear that she wants nothing to do with you.”

“You don’t know that. You don’t know anything about us.” Lucien’s eyes went dark, his mouth pressed in a flat line, nostrils flared. 

I scoffed. A harsh, bitter laugh falling from my lips. “Did you seriously just say that to me? All I do is listen to you complain about her and how she doesn’t open up. About how closed off she is. For Cauldron's sake, Lucien, you had the balls to come here after opening day, after blowing me off, to talk about her. Want some advice? Take a nice long look in the mirror.”

“Why can you just not accept the fact that I might want to have a relationship with her? Why can’t you be happy for me?”

“Because what does she have that I don’t? What is it about her that you could possibly like more than me? Cauldron damn me, Lucien, we live together. I cook for you every day, we have breakfast and tea together.”

“That doesn’t mean anything,” Lucien furrows his brows together.

I could feel my heart start to splinter into however many pieces to double the amount of stars in the sky. All the love and contained affection I’ve had since I met Lucien has washed away in a moment. All those heart to hearts, all those late nights spent atop the House of Wind… all for nothing.

“You’re right,” I nodded, letting several tears run down my cheeks. “It means nothing. I have no reason to be mad at you for simply wanting to find love.”

Lucien sighed, a heavy, grueling noise. “Yn-”

“You know, everyone from back home kept saying that I was making a mistake, that I shouldn’t run off here with you. I think they’re right. This was all a mistake. I should’ve left you to rot on the side of the border.”

Color flushed his face and neck. Silence cursed us and I could only hear my occasional sniffle and the rapid beating of my heart. 

“Tell me this, Lucien. Do her eyes look better when they shine?”

“What? Yn why are you-”

“Does she look prettier when she cries? Am I just too much to handle or-or too emotionally unstable?”

“You’re not too much, Yn. You’re perfect the way you are,” he shook his head, taking my hands in his. I rip them away.

“Then gods dammit Lucien, what is it about her that you love so much more than me?” I screamed.

He is stunned and silent. His mouth opens and closes. No words are coming out. My chest feels like it’s going to cave in any second. 

“Yn… what are you talking about? Are you in love with me?” That flicker deep within my chest erupts into a thousand colors. I bite my lips to keep from crying out. “You are… aren’t you?”

I just shake my head. “I asked you a question first.”

“No, you can’t do this to me, that's not fair.”

“Who gives a fuck what is fair, Lucien? You have discarded me to the side like I was nothing. Did you forget that I was the one who sacrificed her life for you? What has Elain done for you? Nothing. She has done nothing but distract you from the important things in your life.”

“Like you?” Lucien said with an equal amount of venom in his voice. “You are so selfish.”

“You want me to admit it?” I snarled, my face inches from his. “Fine, I’m jealous. I am so jealous that you look at her like she hung the moon and at me like I mean nothing to you. There is no worse feeling in the world than seeing you happy with her, wishing and praying to every god that it was me.”

Lucien just stands still. “I don’t know what you want me to say, Yn.”

“That you love me too!” I shout, pacing around. “You’re telling me that Elain, someone who refuses to give you anything but a cold shoulder, is going to get all the love and affection I so treacherously built back into you after Jesminda? Did you ever stop and think for one moment that there could be you and I? Tell me how the fuck that makes sense.”

“Yes, you took care of me, and I will be eternally grateful for what you’ve done for me. I can’t ever repay you for giving life back to me. But I can’t… I can’t force myself to love you, Yn. I just can’t.”

My body felt like it was on fire. And not the kind of blaze I got when I looked into his eyes. It felt like the bond I had carefully hidden for years was finally unbraiding inside my soul. But when my eyes did meet his… nothing. No burst of excitement or sense of relief. 

I felt utterly nothing as I looked at the man that has been in every single moment of my life for the past sixty years. 

“Please say something,” Lucien begged. 

I couldn’t. Not with this world obliterating feeling inside my chest. I could only stare at the floor. 

“Yn… Yn please don’t let this ruin what we have.”

“It was ruined the moment you walked in that door.” My voice was meek. 

I could see Lucien shake his head, but his features became a blurry whirlwind behind my tears. “Yn I’m begging you I’ll-”

“Get out.”

“No,” Lucien's voice cracked. “No, I'm not going to leave.” He came and grabbed my shoulders, trying to make me look at him.

“Leave, right now, or I’ll get someone who will.” I'll call for Azriel. That will really make his skin blister. He instantly let go. “I want all traces of you gone by tomorrow night.”

“You can’t do this to me. To us.”

“It’s clear you’ve made your decision on where your priorities lie. I refuse to be second place to you anymore.”

“You have never been second place to me, Yn. Never. I’m sorry if I made you feel like you weren’t valued. But I can’t love you. I’m not in love with you.”

“And that is why you have to go. Take care Lucien, I hope she was worth it.”

I don’t bother to show him to the door. He knows where it is. I don’t offer him any other farewells. He doesn’t deserve my good luck. Instead I return to my pots and pans, staring painfully at them. I have no choice but to force him away.

It might just kill me, this ache in my body. It might just engulf me and swallow me into the earth, back to wherever I came from and give me another shot. Hopefully the next one I’ll actually get what I deserve. 

As I stare at the meal before me, it’s like I’m looking at a fresh batch of pure despair. It brings me nothing but painful reminders of years ago back in the Spring Court. Where it was just the two of us. There was no Night Court, there was no emissary duty, there was no Feyre or Nesta or Elain. 

Just me and my Lucien. 

And now there was just me. 

I have to do something. Distantly I hear the door click shut, it’s groan signaling Lucien’s vacancy. As hard as I can, I throw a wooden spoon towards it. It’s gratifying, but it doesn’t dull the ancient pain inside. I throw another. And another. And another. Until there are no more wooden spoons left, and they have been fated to splinters. 

I began to throw away the food I was preparing. A pot full of potato and cheese soup goes first. The lamb in the oven goes next. Then the sweet cherry pie next to it. I stash away the cups and silverware, nearly shattering them in the process.

This was supposed to be a celebration. Of all the hard work I have put into my restaurant over the last several years. It was opening night, the line was a mile long. Even Rhys and Feyre were there to congratulate me.

But not the one person I wanted most. 

This dinner. This fucking dinner. It was his favorite. Though I suppose it still is. Something I made him when he was upset. But instead of settling my stomach, it made it wretch.

I should send the recipe to Elain, but change one ingredient. Replace the chives with cilantro. He hates cilantro. I know so much about him, he knows so much about me. 

Why… just why couldn’t it have worked?

I’ll never get to see him smile again. Or cry. I’ll never get to hear his laugh. Or braid his hair when he’s sick. I’ll never get to feel his arms around me or hear the sound of him coming in the door. If I’m not gone when he gets all his stuff tomorrow, I just might ask him to stay. 

I deserve better. Someone who will look at me like I’ve hung the moon. Who will pursue me the way Lucien pursues Elain. I deserve unconditional. 

I wish I could still deserve him.

~~~~~~~~~

Part 2

#lucien vanserra #lucien acotar #lucien x reader #lucien x you #acotar #acotar fanfiction #acotar fanfic #angst

[separatist-apologist]

“What’s so wrong with staying out here?” she asked him, and if it was fear or her belief he was more wild than prince, Lucien couldn’t say. “I don’t ever want to see the gilded cage they keep you in.”

“What would you have, then?” he replied. Any other female would have all but wept at the thought of riches, of fine clothes and jewels and crowns. Not Jes, back in one of her breezy, beautiful dresses—this one a rich, navy color—and her preference for bare feet, even in the frost. He thought if he offered her a place in the Forest House she would have left him and if he’d sworn to make her a princess of Autumn she would have rebuked him entirely. 

“Admit you prefer the open sky and a bed of leaves to your furs and feathers. That no amount of fine breeding and well-stitched clothing can hide what you are.”

“What am I, Jes?” It was a dangerous question because Lucien suspected Jes understood him better than he understood himself.

Heart thumping in his chest, Lucien watched her creep closer.

“Mine,” she whispered.

#everyone keeps saying this is pain but we haven't even gotten to the pain yet #lucien x jesminda #this is supposed to be the slow incline up to the steep drop of a rollercoaster #breathless with excitment #maybe it will end differently

[acourtofthought]

“And when I didn’t protect her … It was a betrayal of their trust, too. I ran to some of their houses while fleeing my brothers. They turned me out for what I let happen to her.” Waves of gold and ivory rolled around us, the sky a crisp, unmarred blue. “I can’t blame them for it,” he said.

Lucien carries so much guilt for what happened to Jesminda. As if he honestly could have done anything against "his two eldest brothers held him and made him watch.” Lucien was a young Fae at that point and even if he eventually grows to be more powerful than any of his" half "brothers, he wasn't a match at that time for two of them along with his father's men nearby.

Elain stiffened, but refused to balk from whatever she beheld in Nesta’s gaze. “You think I’m to blame for his death?” Challenge filled each word. Challenge—from Elain, of all people. “No one but the King of Hybern is to blame for that.”

How absolutely perfect is Elain for Lucien? She refused to allow Nesta to blame (or even for Nesta to blame herself) for their father's death because Elain is wise enough to know that that sort of guilt is misplaced. And Elain loved her father yet she still knows there's only one person responsible. I see her refusing to allow Lucien to continue feeling guilty for what happened to Jesminda and for him to finally grant himself that peace as a result.

#pro elucien #jesminda #pro lucien vanserra #elain x lucien #pro elain archeron #elucien

[thelov3lybookworm]

Another Chance

Summary: Y/n is a fallen star. Lucien finds her.

•○●⛦●○•

A/n: my second fic for my first @starfallweek celebration🥳

so, as we all know, i cant live without my baby boi luc, so out of the three random fics i started writing yesterday, this made it to the finish line.

also, i couldnt decide who to pick because, this fic was obviously going to be an x reader fic, but then i got the brilliant idea to make it Jesminda x luc, but now i present to you.... THIS!!!!

(@daycourtofficial please dont kill me ily)

anyways, enjoy!

•○🌑○•

If someone got dropped in the middle of a night court's forest and didn't know, all they had to do was wait till the sun set.

After that, the dark practically screamed Night court.

Walking through the thick roots blanketing the ground, it seemed like there was no light in the world, the canopy so thick that even the light from the travelling stars that filled the night sky was hard to penetrate.

The air was still, though the occasional breeze made Lucien shiver as he wandered around aimlessly, trying to pass the time until he returned to the human lands so Vassa and Jurian didn't question him about his early arrival.

Lucien glanced down to his feet as he kicked a rock, then stomped on a fallen branch. In front of him, Lucien could see a clearing coming into view, but he decided to turn away.

That is until the world suddenly brightened, and Lucien's head whipped up to see a bright streak of light flying straight toward that clearing.

He watched as it- the star- collided with the ground and soil flew in every direction, a loud thud echoing in the aftermath before silence again enveloped the forest.

Lucien was sprinting towards the dent in the earth the moment he got his bearings, tripping and falling over his own feet. His heart beat in his ears, telling him to hurry and go to her.

Lucien did not understand this sudden urge, but he did not fight it as he sped up.

Just a few feet away from the shallow crater in the earth, Lucien's ears picked up on sounds.

Groans of pain emanated from whatever had landed in the clearing, and for the first time since Lucien saw it beelining towards the ground, he was on edge and wondering if this was a good idea.

Oh well.

Peering in, Lucien's whole body froze as he studied the softly moving form of... of a fae.

What the fuck?

Lucien's brain had stopped working, for he could do nothing but stare at the female and think about how she felt familiar.

Too familiar.

The colour of her hair, the tone of her skin, the shape of her body...

With a jolt, Lucien realised why she felt so familiar.

This was not a random fae. This was Lucien's first and only love. The one he had watched die in front of his eyes.

Jesminda.

Y/n Jesminda Flores.

She glanced up after a moment of squirming, her eyes widening with relief when she found Lucien staring at her.

"Lucien? Help me out please."

As if in a trance, Lucien watched his hand extend and grasp hers, tears springing in his eyes when his skin touched hers, the familiarity and comfort of it threatening to break him.

He did not feel anything, numb and confused as he watched her dust herself off, still in the bloody slip she had been wearing when she was kill-

No.

Lucien could not think back to that time, for if he did, he would lose any and all composure he had managed to hold on to.

"Jesminda? How- I... how?"

She glanced up at him, a furrow between the brows Lucien used to kiss every chance he got.

"What? Why do you look like someone bit you in the ass huh?" A teasing smile, the one Lucien would have died for, graced her lips, and finally, despite his efforts, a tear slipped out of his eye.

"Y/n, how are you here? I... you- you died."

"Oh shut it Lucien, what do you mean I died? I'm standing here in front of you aren't I?" She glanced behind her to the crater, then frowned down at her slip. "Though I would love to have a chat with whoever put me in that crater and in this ugly thing. Why would someone put a bloody-"

She didn't get to finish, because the next moment, Lucien was wrapped around her, holding her as if he wanted to kill her from lack of air.

"Lucien- Oh mother- stop. I can't breathe."

She tried to slap him on the back, his waist, anywhere she could reach, but he did not budge.

"Y/n- Y/n you died. You were killed in front of me." He sobbed, burying his face in her shoulder.

Y/n froze. "What the hell are you talking about Lucien? I'm..." She trailed off, then quickly pushed him away. "Lucien, what day is it?"

He sniffed. "Starfall in the Nigh court."

She blinked, then turned her face towards the sky. "Was I really killed?"

He nodded.

"Then maybe the stories were true."

"What stories?" Lucien questioned as he discreetly tried to wipe his face on the sleeve of his jacket.

"My mother used to tell me. The souls that travel during starfall? Sometimes the Mother grants them another chance in life, but its so rare that barely anyone knows about it."

She grabbed Lucien's arms, tears now streaming down her face.

"If what you're saying is true, which I believe you, then the Mother has blessed us."

He blinked at her, brain unable to grasp anything. "I-"

She laughed, her head tossed back. "Oh Lucien, my love my heart, what would I ever do without you."

Lucien smiled, starting to believe this was not some cruel joke the mother was playing on him.

She quieted down after a moment, looking at him with the eyes she could only use when in the safety of his rooms.

So much love, too much adoration swirled in the depths of those eyes, a window to her soul.

"Why are you looking at me like that?"

"Its been centuries-"

"Centuries?! What the fuck??"

Lucien laughed then, like the way he'd never laughed since she left him.

"Cauldron boil me, you need to give me all the drama that happened while I was doing mother knows what." She glanced down. "But before that, maybe let me take a shower. And your clothes."

Lucien pulled her in for a kiss before she could demand anything else.

•○🌑○•

Whore hive: @clairebear08 @thehighladywrites @artists-ally @berryzxx @riddlesb1tch @readychilledwine

Acotar Taglist: @bubybubsters @eos-princess @nightless @harrystylesfan2686 @cassie6392 @kennedy-brooke @tele86 @miluiel1 @hnyclover @minnieoo @sidrapotter @piceous21 @mybestfriendmademe @saltedcoffeescotch @eve175 @starsinyourseyes @starswholistenanddreamsanswered @cumuluscranium @byyalady

Lucien Vanserra Taglist: @mirandasidefics @fell-in-luvs @tele86

#lucien x reader #acotar #acotar fanfic #mating bond #a court of thorns and roses #lucien fluff #acotar fandom #acotar series #fluff #lucien fic #sarah j maas #acotar headcanon #acotar writing #acotar fluff #acotar x reader #reader insert #lucien vanserra #lucien acotar #pro lucien vanserra #lucien #lucien fanfic #lucien vandaddy #pro lucien

[mirandasidefics]

But Home is Nowhere- Pt2

Lucien x Plus Size F! Reader, Azriel x Plus Size F! Reader

Part 1

Part 2 Summary: Lucien and Rhysand argue over Reader's imprisonment, only one cell is traded for another. Lucien reaches out to an unlikely alley for support in getting Reader free.

A/N: I was too excited to wait the full month so here is part two a bit early! I apologize that this gets a bit dialogue heavy at the end. I may fix it later. This is going to be a long slow burn fic with a lot of angst. This will also have crossover with some of the Crescent City characters. It also probably goes without saying, but this will not follow canon past the events in HOSAB. Comment on this post if you want to be included on the tag list.

Content Warnings: Mentions of injuries, mentions of self harm, mentions of body issues/insecurities.

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

Seven days. Seven days he’d been arguing and advocating for her release with Rhysand. For seven days he listened to the same rehearsed list of excuses as to why Rhys wouldn’t budge in his decision.

“You and I both know that the gate to Velaris was sealed with blood magic. Only those whose blood is linked to the seal can pass through, which she shouldn’t have been able to do. On top of that we don’t know what world she came from. I’m not risking the lives of my family-my court, which includes you- on what equates to no more than a hunch.”  

While the High Lord’s statements were reasonable and valid points, his insistence she remained confined in that dark and dank cell was not. Lucien hastily made his way down the main steps that lead into the catacombs, thoughts of his last spat with Rhysand swirling in his mind.

“Why do you care so much about what happens to this woman?” Rhys had questioned. Lucien had asked himself the same thing; but how could he say that it was less about her and more about what she represented? That when he saw her cowering form in the corner of that cell, images of Feyre, Elain, and Jesminda flashed through his mind. He had failed the two sisters. He had failed his first love. He would sooner have the Cauldron blast him from existence should he fail to protect another innocent female. He’d kept his composure standing in Rhysand’s office at the River House long enough. A simmering rage permeated the space as the raven-haired male stared him down. A silent challenge in the already tense atmosphere.

“How can you stand your own hypocrisy?” He seethed, “You sit there thinking of yourself so high and mighty, yet a simple human frightens you? You allowed Feyre into Velaris the second week she spent with you. You allowed Bryce into your home within minutes of her crashing into our world. Yet this human…this woman scares you so much you have her imprisoned in one of the most dangerous areas of your court?”

“ENOUGH!” Rhysand bellowed, his own violet orbs simmered with rage. Lucien felt his flames rise up and encircle his palms. Rhysand’s High Lord command held no sway so he continued.

“Are you that much of a coward that you could not have just asked her a few simple questions? You couldn’t have just looked into her-”

“I could not enter her mind!” Rhys’ breaths were ragged. “Something is protecting that mortal, and it is strong enough to keep me out. So long as those shields of hers remain impenetrable I cannot trust her. I must keep my mate and child safe.” Lucien scoffed, his fire dwindled. “Which is not something I can say I see you doing for your own.”  

Lucien could still feel the cracking of bone and cartilage of Rhys’ nose as it connected with his fist. The argument surly would have resulted in them demolishing the entirety of the business wing had Azriel’s arrival not stopped the two males in their tracks. The Shadowsinger’s haggard appearance set them both on edge, but his words allowed Lucien to breathe a sigh of relief.

“I’m done with this Rhys. I cannot keep hur- I cannot do this… she knows nothing.” The High Lord merely looked between the Emissary and the Spymaster. Expression relaxed and revealing nothing, even as blood dripped over his lips.

“Bring her up to the Moonstone Palace,” the commanded was towards his brother, “Since Lucien is so smitten with the woman he shall remain with her there for the time being.”

Lucien soon found himself outside of her cell. Only darkness and cold emanated from beyond the door. He paused his own breathing, wondering if she was even still alive. The last time he saw her, she hadn’t hesitated to slice open her own skin. Azriel wasn’t far behind and pushed past Lucien to enter the room. Lucien’s breath remained caught in his throat as he took in the mangled sight of her.

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

You had no idea how long you’d been in the darkness of your cell. Hours had turned into days, but just how many days you weren’t sure. You had gone silent on what you assumed was the third day. You knew nothing of how you got there, and you had no idea where to begin when Azriel-who’s name you gathered early on-asked you about the world you came from. Its not like he would believe you if you said your world had no magic, at least not in the same way it was here. Then again, that was clearly an incorrect assumption on your part. And after everything that has transpired you determined that this was no dream. It was a nightmare come to life. You weren’t sure how much more your psyche could tolerate. Surely death would be better than the horrors that would plague your mind for years to come if you were allowed to live. You prayed silently to whatever deity would listen to let you die. You started as the metal hinges of the door screamed into the darkness. 

“Mother above,” The horrified yet soft baritone drifted to your ears and you strained to open your eyes. You recognized the voice and Lucien’s warm body was immediately next to yours as you dangled from the ceiling. The male made quick work of the metal shackles holding your wrists high above your head, a bright light flooding the small space making you hiss. His large hand encircled your wrist and you could feel the skin repair itself. Lucien slowly lowered your arms down.

“Her name is (Y/N),” Azriel’s voice was barely above a whisper, as if he was ashamed of the space his normal speaking voice would take up in the small cell. As if what he said would break you further. Lucien held you up, warm hands around your rib cage holding you steady. 

“(Y/N),” His testing of your name tentative, “(Y/N), my name is Lucien…I’m going to take you out of here.” His arms wrapped around you, and you could have sworn you felt your skin get warmer, the cold melting away like ice. His grip never lessened, which you were grateful for as you weren’t sure your legs could fully support your weight.

“Do you feel safe enough to come with me?”  You couldn’t speak, couldn’t move your head in agreement. Couldn’t specify that you felt safe with him. You could only muster enough strength to cling to the front of his shirt, hoping it conveyed your trust towards him and him alone. Your eyes burned with tears. He shushed you as one of his hands rubbed up and down your spine. A footstep echoed in the chamber, and then you felt Azriel’s shadows attempt to wend their way over your bare feet. Your flinch was followed by a low warning growl, one that you felt more than heard.

“Follow me,” Azriel’s swallow was audible.

“Can you walk?” Lucien’s hand lowered to your waist, pushing you back far enough so he could meet your eyes. They felt swollen and your vision was unfocused and hazy, but you tried to keep them open so he could see that you would try your best. You shifted your weight back onto your heels and slowly slid your right foot in front of you. A lightning like bolt of pain traveled up your leg. Air harshly sucked into your lungs.

“I’ve got you,” his voice was reassuring as he continued to support most of your weigh in his arms. You took another step forward. Then another and another. His hands never faltered from their place on your torso as he moved himself to walk behind you. Ready and poised to keep you balanced and catch you should you fall. “Good girl,” he praised, “Let’s get you cleaned up so I can heal you yeah?”

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

The walk up from the catacombs to the palace proper was brutal. Your legs burned from the muscle strain and you were regretting not accepting help from Lucien while you bathed. However, the last thing you wanted was to have anyone see you naked. Lucien had helped enough with getting the large sunken in bathtub filled. The scent of vanilla and lavender contrasted with the grime and dirt that filled your lungs for the last week. You had specifically asked for the water to be scalding, wanting it to burn away the memory of everything that had been done to you in the dark. The deep cold that laced your bones was finally seeping out in the hot water. A soft knock rapped on the stone archway leading into the bathing chamber. Unable to move your neck freely you covered your chest and turned to face the male. He walked over to the bench set near the tub, a bundle of cream-colored fabric in his arms. Unless it was a bedsheet you doubted that any clothing he found would fit you. Then again, magic existed so its possible that the fabric could be altered instantly. He sat on the bench and set the garment next to the towel that awaited you.

“Are you certain that I can’t be of assistance?” He looked beyond you towards the open windows that overlooked the absolutely stunning expanse of wilderness below the palace. A darkened city jutting out from the base of the mountains the only thing that disrupted the sight. You were thankful for Lucien’s offer. Truly you were, and despite the feeling-knowing- that you could trust the male, your self-conscious nature surrounding your body was too strong.

“I-” You cleared your throat of the gravel you were certain had lodged itself inside from screaming against the rocky surface of your cell, “I’m good.” The vibration of your vocal chords felt like sandpaper as they rubbed together. He looked at you then and reflexively you squeezed your arms tighter around yourself; gripping your elbows as you dipped down into the water until everything below your neck was submerged. You were grateful for the tub size making you look small. It could easily fit two full grown adults and deep enough to reach your waist when you stood to full height. It almost reminded you more of a jacuzzi rather than a bathtub.

“Then I’ll leave you to bathe in peace,” He stood and clasped his hands behind his back, “I’ll be in the room just beyond these arches. Just call our if you need anything. I’m here to ensure that you’re taken care of.” You nodded your understanding and turned towards the side of the tub lined with soaps and lotions, his foot steps retreating against the stone tiles. While you had difficulty with your range of motion, you managed to rid yourself of the dirt, grime, and dried blood from your skin. Your hair felt silky, soft, and light compared to the heavy oily mats from not washing it for a week. You had also found a razor nearby and took the opportunity to shave, savoring the feeling that you were becoming a person again. Drying off was easier with the relaxed muscles. The vanilla scented lotion felt like heaven as it penetrated your dry skin. You surmised that the bath had really only removed one layer of nightmares as you scanned your form in the mirror on the opposite wall. Your eyes first saw the plethora of cuts in every size cover the expanse of both your arms, shoulders, and collar bone from the dagger-Truth Teller-that Azriel had used during your interrogation. Next you took in the dark red and purple bruise on the left side of your jaw. The discoloration spanning from the joint below your ear to your chin. It was a miracle that he hadn’t knocked any of your teeth out or broken your jaw from the force he hit you with. Eyes trailing further down you saw a second healing bruise, its blue-green hue spanning the length of your ribs on the right side of your body. Laying down on your side was going to prove difficult still. Finally, your eyes landed on the only injury that you yourself were responsible for. The shadows had played too many tricks on your mind, too many whispers promising to break you. The psychological and emotional pain was worse than the physical injuries and honestly became too much for your soul. Something in you broke. You still couldn’t figure out exactly how you managed to grab Truth Teller from him, too focused on plunging the black blade into your left inner thigh and dragging it along the flesh. You couldn’t reach your throat, so you had been aiming for the next major artery you knew of in the hopes that you’d bleed out fast, but Azriel was quick. His attempt to get the blade back from you pushed it away from where it would do the most damage. That was the last day that Azriel brought any form of weapon with him, and the last day he put his hands on you. Rhysand had only managed to stop the bleeding, but a large and deep jagged slice remained. Had you paid more attention you may not have doubted the guilt that lined his features as he worked to heal you. You didn’t want this to be real. You still held out hope that if you somehow managed to end your life you’d wake up on the cold concrete of the path leading up to your front door. You didn’t belong here.

You shook the memories from your mind and picked up the fabric on the bench. You expected the intrusive thoughts and nightmares, but you didn’t think that they would be plaguing you so immediately. You slipped on the airy cotton tank top and loose-fitting matching shorts. You were indeed surprised they fit as well as they did, let alone fit at all. Your bare feet padded along the cool stone floor and entered the massive bedchamber. The room encapsulated a warmth with its cream and ivory base colors. Splashes of blues, teals, and turquoise giving it a calming effect.  The dark cherry wood of the four-poster bedframe provided an interesting accent color adding to the space. Lucien sat on an ivory colored couch that faced a white marbled fireplace. Sadly, the flames did nothing to help illuminate the space and only seemed to cast heavier shadows. You glanced around the room again and noticed that the bedsheets had been turned down for you, for whenever you were ready to sleep. But you knew you wouldn’t be able to get any real rest with your injuries being what they were. Rhysand had only stopped the bleeding in your thigh. He did nothing for the other injuries. So, Lucien stated he would heal those for you. Carefully walking over, you sat your self on the couch, keeping enough space for another person to sit between you and the crimson haired male. He turned towards you with a slight smile that quickly faltered as he took in your appearance. He moved closer towards you and examined every inch of your skin. His one real eye held no warmth even as a flame seemed to ignite the iris. He took your chin in his hand to get a better look at the bruise on your jaw. His touch was gentle, but even you could tell that the male was furious with what he saw.

“I had hoped some of this had been dirt,” He turned your head to the side, a finger tracing down along the side of your neck. A metallic scent permeated the air as the hand cupped the left side of your face, covering nearly the entire bruise. His gaze slowly traveled down to your shoulders and the cuts that littered and marred the skin of your arms and shoulders. The skin warmed and tingled under his gentle caress. His eyes paused at your torso, no words needed to understand that he wanted to see the injury to your ribs. You carefully gathered the material and lifted as high as your stiff shoulder and neck muscles would allow. His fingers traced the outline of the mark, and you cringed at the touch of his hands moving your fat rolls out of the way so his palms could lay flat against the skin. Embarrassment colored your cheeks. Lucien continued his healing wordlessly. He motioned for you to stand, grasping your calf and propping your leg on the cushion of the couch. Your inner thigh completely exposed to him allowing the full extent of your wound to be seen. You watched as skin healed almost instantly. His gaze then shifted to the healed scars on your upper thigh, near the junction where it met your hip. “Um…y-you can leave those,” you brought your leg back down to stand before the male, “Thank you Lucien.”

“You’re most welcome,” His smile didn’t reach his eyes. You started to pick at your already blunt nails, a nervous habit you used to ground yourself. You glanced around the room for the third time, almost not believing that you were no longer in the cold and dark. The white walls and bedding opened up the space.

“Is…is that for me?” You pointed over towards the massive bed covered in decorative pillows. Lucien’s red hair swayed with the movement of his head as he followed your gesture.

“The bed is for you,” He stood and walked over to the small bedside table to the left of the headboard, “As is this sleeping draft.” He picked up a deep cobalt vial, giving it a slight shake before setting it back down. You hummed and nodded, but didn’t move from your spot in front of the couch. It went without saying that the potion would be needed after what you experienced over the past week. And you would only feel guilty if you woke him in the middle of the night.

“There’s water for you as well,” His voice softened as he noticed your hesitation. You chewed on your lower lip. The sun was still up, but you didn’t know how its position revealed the time of day. Depending on the time of year and how far north, or south, on the planet you were, you estimated it could be anywhere from 3pm to 9pm. You supposed it didn’t really matter as sleep was sleep and you’d likely remain unconscious for several hours, Gods willing at least.

“I will be in the room next to yours,” He pointed over to a door opposite from the entrance to the bathing chamber, “If you need anything, anything at all you come to me. We’ll get you some food in the morning.” You nodded again as your eyes started to water. You didn’t want to be left alone, but you also didn’t want to take up his time more than you already were. So, wordlessly you forced your feet to move and made your way over to the bed. You crawled in under the blankets that had been moved aside. You grabbed the vial from the bedside table and uncorked the stopper. The scent of chamomile, lavender, and something unknown wafted to you. Before you gave yourself time to reconsider you downed half the contents and set it back down. Lucien was patiently waiting at the door and smiled his first genuine smile towards you.

“Goodnight (Y/N).”

“Goodnight Lucien.”

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

Lucien had answered all your questions, to the best of his ability, during your first day in the Moonstone Palace. He filled you in on the basics of the Night Court and Prythian. For each bit of information he provided about the land or himself, you matched it. He also informed you that while here, Rhysand insisted that you work on finding any potential information of your world and how to get back to it in the texts that he sent. A new stack of books was brought into the small library within the palace every morning. So far, your hours of reading yielded no results. Then again, you could only read a fraction of the texts given to you. Most were in languages that you couldn’t even begin to understand. Still you scanned the tombs for any words that even looked remotely similar to names of places within your universe. Sadly, all you could find was information related to a Midgard, which was frustratingly NOT the same as the mortal realm described in Norse mythology. Lucien then explained that they had already received visitors from this Midgard that were set to return to Prythian soon. You had gathered that one of them was Bryce, but you’d not been given names for anyone else.

In addition to the books you had also been gifted a small wardrobe filled with clothing in your size. It had been awkward when the half wraiths appeared to measure you. But you were provided with some simple dresses, pants, shirts, and under clothes. Nothing fancy, which you were grateful for. Lucien explained the clothes were an apology gift from Rhysand. You told Lucien that if the High Lord was truly sorry he could at least express as much to your face. You couldn’t complain in the grand scheme of things. Rhysand wasn’t obligated to house, feed, or clothe you. He could have easily dumped you in the Mortal Lands, leaving you to fend for yourself. Although, Lucien stated that he knew of two people that would have taken you into their care. Regardless, you did as Rhysand bid, reading for hours day after day and never asked for anything in particular.

Another two weeks went by and you and Lucien developed a little routine. Breakfast followed by hours of research. Then lunch and various exercises and tests to determine if you held any sort of latent magic. Lucien explained that his initial assessment of you that first day showed nothing, but that didn’t mean you were completely without power. Truth be told you felt he was keeping something from you. Then came dinner, after which you were free to spend your time however you wished. Mostly you spent time on the veranda studying the night sky, letting the wind caress your face and hair. There was one night you swore you heard voices held within the breeze. A song encouraging you that you would find peace again. In your world the night time hours used to provide a comfort, but here there was nothing familiar about the constellations that dotted the dark sky above. Instead, the lack of familiarity just made you feel all the more alone. It wasn’t that Lucien wasn’t good company, you just felt bad that he was stuck with you. He tried really hard to get you to relax and fall into the playful banter he likely needed to survive his own punishment. While he never said as much, you had gathered that his babysitting duty was linked to your release and apology from the High Lord. Lucien made your days easy, filled with witty remarks and a warmth that felt natural. An easy friendship had definitely taken root.

However, the nights were hard. You already suffered from extreme insomnia without the added fear of night terrors. So, your sleep cycle was suffering greatly. The first two nights were dream less thanks to whatever Lucien had given you. But the third night resulted in his bursting through the doors of your bedroom at the sound of your screams. As much as you hated yourself for feeling weak, you begged him to stay in the room. He obliged, of course, and slept on the couch. His presence helped slightly. It didn’t chase away the nightmares, but it did make the darkness that permeated the night more tolerable. You had never been fearful of the night before, having even preferred it to the hustle and bustle of the day. You had always the quite of the night to bring you a comforting serenity. But since your time in the cell…you insisted on a fire in the hearth and the faelights to remain lit, believing the light would chase away the shadows that plagued your dreams.

You felt bad forcing Lucien to sleep on the couch. But you also didn’t want him to feel uncomfortable if you offered to share your bed with him. He told you about his mate, Elain, and you felt even worse that your arrival took him away from her. Even if he explained that their relationship wasn’t what would be expected between mates after nearly 4 years of being in each other’s lives. So, you kept the offer to yourself.

Today started out like any other. Lucien and you sat down to a breakfast of eggs, toast and jam with orange juice. You never really cared for tea and coffee appeared to not be available in Prythian if your companion’s confusion was anything to go by. The only difference today were the two additional place settings.

“Are we expecting visitors?” You asked. You immediately wanted to kick yourself for asking what was an obvious question.

“Yes,” Lucien answered, pouring a cup of tea for himself, “I’ve asked some people to come and meet you. As much as I enjoy our time together, it seems that the High Lord still needs convincing that you should not be kept in a cell.”

“I’m not in a cell,” You countered. However, you didn’t miss the fact that his glare told you that your new cell was just a lavish one.

“Our guests may be able to help me make a stronger case for you to be able to move freely about the court, if not Prythian as a whole.” You pondered who he would have contacted. To your understanding, not many members of the High Lord’s “Inner Circle” particularly cared for the emissary. There was also no way that members from another court would be able to hold any sway over the inner workings of the Night Court.

“So, what do they need to know about me?” You asked, spiking the yoke of your egg. In the time spent with Lucien you were able to be yourself for the most part. You held back on your swearing, meme related jokes, and slang, but tested out your sarcasm and dry humor. One of the main things you were worried about was how to speak with others. While you had manners, you had no formal etiquette training. Something that Lucien found utterly hilarious when you asked for clarification on how to address him.

“Relax, its an informal introduction,” His gentle smile reassured you, “Just be the sweet girl that I’ve come to know.” His smile widened. You gave him a doubtful look, tucking your lips into a thin line to suppress a laugh. He batted his irritatingly long eyelashes and the two of you broke out into a fit of laughter. While you weren’t cold or bitchy by any means, you also weren’t a sweet and demure woman either. No, Lucien quickly pointed out that you had a fire within you…at least on your good days. The laughter was cut short by the sound of a thud in front of you on the stone patio. Your eyes immediately tracked the large bat like wings and you stood from your seat. Metal and glass clanged against the stone as your thighs hit the lip of the table. Your chair knocked to the ground, causing you to nearly trip as you backed towards the metal railing. Blood rushed in your ears and your vision started to tunnel. Lucien was next to you in an instant.

“Hey. Hey," He gripped your right shoulder to keep you steady, “Shh, it’s okay. It's not him. You’re safe.” Your gaze remained fixed on the unknown winged male that looked on with worry etching his features.

“See what you did,” the voice of the female he’d been carrying was distant in your ears. Lucien’s other hand cupped your face, forcing you to turn towards him.

“Eyes on me (Y/N),” He encouraged, “Breathe. There you go.” Your eyes focused on his features; the jagged scar-raised and tight, the deep reds sprinkled amongst the warm honey brown iris. Your breath evened out, and you covered the hand on your cheek with one of your own to let the red head know you were okay. You took another breath and released Lucien. However, his hand remained on your shoulder. You turned back to the couple that stood on the opposite side of the space. At first glance, the winged male held features that you noted were similar to Azriel in regards to skin, hair, and eye color. Although, Azriel’s held more flecks of green than the honey gold of the male before you. The unnamed male was taller and broader, his shoulder-length hair softly jostled in the breeze. Your eyes wandered over to the female that was with him. Her striking blue-grey eyes would have reminded you of steel had it not been for the soft sadness that shown in them at your display. You hadn’t expected to react in the manner you did. Your heart still hammered in your chest. You cleared your throat and smoothed down the front of the simple sage green dress you wore.

“I-I must apologize,” You started, “I guess I…sorry.” You wrung your hands together and looked at your feet.

“Don’t be ridiculous,” the female spoke up, "It’s this idiot’s fault. We should have given you a warning.” You nodded slightly in acknowledgment. Lucien’s hand trailed down your arm to your hand. He gave it a quick and gentle squeeze before he bent down to pick up the chair you’d knocked over in your haste to get away.

“(Y/N),” He motioned for you to sit back down, “This is Cassian, the General of the Night Court’s Illyrian army, and Nesta Archeron, Valkyrie, sister to the High Lady and fellow emissary.” Lucien gestured to each as they took their own seats across from yours.

“It’s nice to meet you,” You reached across the table, your hand extended to shake theirs. When neither returned to gesture you pulled back. “Sorry, I’m used to hand shakes as a form of greeting in my world.”

“So, you are from another world?” Cassian asked, scooping some eggs onto a plate and handing it to Nesta.

“Yes, we call it Earth,” you searched the table for a spare fork, yours having fallen to the ground. When you couldn’t find one, Lucien handed you his. You raised your eyebrow at him, but he just shrugged and began to spread a blackberry jam on his toast. “And before you ask, there is no magic, at least not the same as what you’re familiar with. Also, creatures such as fairies-the Fae- shapeshifters, vampires, mermaids, nymphs, and so on - are all non-existent. Just stories that have been reduced to myths.” The two regarded you closely, listening to your spiel. When they didn’t say anything you continued, too nervous to allow silence.

“I’m not sure how I got here. There are stories of humans traveling through portals into the realm of the Fae or other worlds, but they are simply stories. Ones made to keep children out of trouble or explain natural occurrences. All prior to finding scientific explanation, of course. Like the changing of the seasons,” You realized you were now rambling, “or fairy rings-rings of flowers or more often mushrooms…” The three non-humans stared at you.

“Don’t Lu,” you warned as the corner of the male’s full lips ticked up, “Yes, I talk when I’m nervous. Yes, I’m nervous because I really don’t know how I got here. I don’t know why I’m here. I don’t understand why…I just…want to go home.” Lucien took your hand in his again, his grip reassuring and comforting.

“That’s what we’re all working on,” He assured, “There is a library that, should we manage to convince Rhys-”

“Wait, she can’t leave here?” Nesta interrupted, her eyes blazed. Cassian tensed in his seat and gave Nesta a warning glance. It was clear that not everyone knew of your predicament.

“She’s restricted to the East Wing of the palace,” Lucien clarified, “There are barriers up that she can’t pass through. Just like what Tamlin did with your sister.” If Nesta had been upset before, she looked down right lethal now. Of course, Lucien had filled in you in on what transpired with Feyre and his former home in the Spring Court. Cassian cleared his throat, his gaze falling to the other male.

“What is it you need from us exactly?” He looked to you, seemingly trying to figure out why you posed such a threat that you required to be locked away.

“I need your voice in your High Lord’s ear. I have no magic, and we’ve tried various ways to test that out.”

“Which you’re welcome to see,” Lucien interrupted.

“Yes. I don’t really know how to use a weapon, nor do I have much interest in doing so. And, as I already mentioned, up until a month ago I firmly believed that yo-the Fae were not real.”

“What did my brother say his reasoning was for holding her here?” The question was directed towards the other male.

“He can’t enter her mind.” Cassian’s surprise was not well hidden, “He believes that something or someone is guarding her-” It was your turn to interrupt your friend.

“If I was being guarded or protected, then whatever was responsible has already failed me,” Your voice was soft. A silence fell across the table, and most of the food had grown cold. You didn’t know what else to do or say to convince the General and the Valkyrie of your innocence. All they had to go on was your and Lucien’s word. Even if you were to demonstrate the exercise that Lucien put you through each afternoon with no results, how would they believe that you weren’t just pretending. A ruse to fool them. You desperately tried to quell the pinpricks of tears behind your eyes. You feared that if Lucien’s efforts failed you’d be sent back to the catacombs or worse left to rot on that-

“(Y/N),” Nesta’s clear and calm voice cut through your thoughts, “I’d like to hear more about where you’re from.” You nodded.

“What would you like to know specifically?”

“Let’s start with you. Your family, your up brining.” She leaned back in her chair, arms crossed comfortably in her lap. You swallowed and nodded again.

“I can do that.” You spent the next few hours pouring every detail of your life to the trio. Most information Lucien already knew, some he didn’t. You talked about your family and your friends. You briefly talked about your work and academic studies in music. This caught the oldest Archeron’s attention, which launched a discussion regarding your dissertation topic. The two males excused themselves as you continued to talk with Nesta. The topic changed to books and Nesta promising to bring you some of the spicier romance novels that she found to enjoy the most on her next visit; to which you were grateful as you desperately needed a reprieve from only reading books provided by Rhysand. Cassian and Lucien eventually returned as you made a raunchy joke that had you and the female High Fae laughing loudly.

“It’s time to go Nes,” Cassian set his hand on her shoulder. He looked to you and smiled. The expression was genuine. After spending the few hours you did with the male, you had concluded that he was much less frightening than the other Illyrian. At least for the time being, that is. Nesta rose from her seat and joined her mate.

“I will speak with my sister,” She told you, her features hard with determination, “It’s not right that you’re kept any where against your will when you’ve done nothing to justify imprisonment.”

“Thank you,” You smiled, “I hope to see you both again soon. I’m certain this fool is getting tired of having to entertain me.” You gave the male a wicked teasing grin. Cassian let out a booming laugh as ‘your fool’ placed his hand to his chest in mock offense.

“And here I thought you loved my company,” He stated. You laughed as you stood to join him at the patio entrance.

“Yeah, yeah,” You brushed him off, the smile still plastered to your face. The two of you said your goodbyes and watched as the guests flew off in the distance.

“I think that went rather well,” you looked to Lucien, “Don’t you?”

“Yes, it did,” He held his arm out for you to take, “Cassian agreed to speak to Rhys. He said that he and Nesta would allow you to stay in their home or at least help you get in and out of the library.” You hummed in response as you slipped your arm around his. Your mind wandered, and you felt lighter than you had since you’d been here. He walked you to your room and began prepping the couch to be his makeshift bed for the evening. The sun was quickly setting, and you hadn’t noticed that you spent the entire day talking. You paused near the entrance to the bathing chamber.

“Lu?” he hummed, looking up at you while shaking out the quilt. “Thank you, for everything.”

“Of course, sweet girl,” You rolled your eyes at the term of endearment.

“That’s sticking now isn’t it?” His russet eye brightened with mischief.

“Now that I know it irks you, yes.” You leveled a glare at his to which he just laughed. You huffed a breath.

“If you’re just going to be mean, you can leave,” You stuck your tongue out at him as you made your way into the bathing room. He continued to laugh as he excused himself to his own rooms. When he returned, you were already snuggled in your bed, breathing deep and steady.

Part 3

Tag list: @jenniferpendragon @impossibelle @sweet-chai-amore @myheartfollower

#acotar x reader #azriel x reader #lucien x reader #acotar fanfiction #lucien vanserra x reader #plus size reader #lucien vanserra x plus size reader #azriel x plus size reader #BHINfic

[azsazz]

Comets

Lucien x Reader [Starfall Week Day 7]

Summary: @starfallweek Day 7 Prompt: Character A and B spend Starfall in a different court, learning all of the traditions.

Warnings: None

Word Count: 1,339

Notes: This one also goes out to the anon who was begging me for some Lulu action 💙

_________________________________________

The wind brushes his copper hair over his shoulders and the sun makes the freckles dusting his nose shine. You watch your mate spread his arms wide and throw his head back, drinking in a deep breath of the crisp, fresh Autumn Court air. 

He never thought he would be back.

It has been a long many years since he was exiled from the Autumn Court on the happenstance of falling in love. Falling in love with someone that his father didn’t approve of. Falling in love with someone who wasn’t his mate. 

Lucien had every intention of marrying Jesminda, lower fae or no. His young heart leaped happily in his chest whenever she was around. They were both blind to their problems as a couple, brushing off their arguments to roll around in the grassy fields, watching the leaves change color over their heads.

It had taken a long time to get over her. He never really did, honestly. Of course, the love that had been so fiery and new, scorched him when she died. But it was nothing like how it is with you, his true mate.

Lucien turns his head over his shoulder, tears lining his russet eye. The mechanical one whirs softly, and the smile on his lips shakes a little, making your heart ache in your chest. He holds a hand out to you, wanting to share this moment with you. 

The moment he can freely cross back into Autumn Court territory without fearing for his life.

While your mate had found a new home in the Night Court, found you in the Night Court, this isn’t a moment he’d allowed himself to think about, no matter how many promises his older brother made in their passing moments at meetings or gatherings. Their father is finally dead and Eris crowned the new High King of Autumn. 

He swears he can hear it, the joy across the lands carried on the winds blowing you closer to him. Lucien smiles sneakily at that look you give him. So he used a little mixture of his Autumn and Day Court powers to sweep the wind up. He wants you in his arms, how can you be upset at that?

You reach up with your free hand, caressing Lucien’s face, wiping at the lone tear rolling down his cheek. 

“Are you ready?” you ask, with a soft smile.

His throat works around a swallow and he takes your hand, kissing your palm so sweetly. “With you? Of course.” 

⋅•⋅⊰∙∘☽༓☾∘∙⊱⋅•

The Autumn Court is everything you thought it might be, but even more so because Lucien looks like he’s never left. 

There’s something about being in the territory that has awoken something long lost in your mate. The air, fresher than the other courts, filling his lungs with the scents of pine and sap, cinnamon and pumpkin. The black you thought he looked striking in is nothing compared to the hues of the autumnal clothing he’d almost immediately switched them out for; the olive greens and deep navy’s, crimsons and nutty browns.

Your first pit stop had been the bakery his mother always took him to when he was young. He missed their sweets deeply, and you laughed at the amount of pastries he tried buying. Lucien had hand fed you a caramel treat and your eyes widened at the burst of flavor that hit your tastebuds. There was no stopping either of you from spending a pretty coin on the treats filling your arms sky high.

“This one, my love, is a Starfall tradition,” he explains, handing you a sample of the warmed treat. It looks something similar to a Night Court treat you remember your mother making. Popping it into your mouth you nearly melt at its deliciousness. 

“Luc, we need to buy all of these,” you say in amazement, not waiting for his answer before you’re opening your mouth to speak to the worker. Lucein’s chuckle warms you to your very bones but you pout as he guides you away from the shop.

“There will be plenty more at the Woodland House tonight, my love,” he says with a grin. “My family hires a specific baker every year during the month of Starfall to make sure they never run out. Trust me, with seven boys running around, they were constantly in low supply.” 

You laugh with your mate, enjoying the shining of his eyes at the fond memory. You want to hear more of the good times he’s had in his home court. It’s not something he often speaks about, because there are more bad than good, but when you do get to hear one of his favorite memories, it always makes you smile.

“So, what does tonight have in store for us?” you ask, popping some of the chocolate and caramel drizzled popcorn into your mouth. Another Autumn Court staple. Your mate is going to turn you into a sweet-tooth yet.

“First, we have a formal dinner with the family,” Lucien explains, and you can see how the joy melts into nervousness. He hasn’t seen the entirety of his family since the day he was chased out of the Court, where two of his brothers died at the hands of him and Tamlin. He’s not sure how the remaining brothers besides Eris feel about him. Pyrolas doesn’t care about anyone’s presence besides his own, but he is the son so much like his father. Conleth never wanted problems with anyone, and Oakland was ever the rational one. If any of his brothers might have missed him, he would put his coin on those two.

“We don’t have to go if you don’t want to,” you offer softly. You would never make Lucien do something that he didn’t feel comfortable doing. You’re sure there’s a nice place the both of you can hide out until the party afterwards begins. Or perhaps you can check into an inn and celebrate Starfall in the streets with the rest of the peoples of the Autumn Court.

“No,” he shakes his head and rolls his shoulders, straightening his spine. “I’ve missed out on Starfall dinners for long enough. I’m ready.”

You nod, offering him the tin of popcorn. “Want some?”

“Thank you, my love,” Lucien smiles, taking a handful. “Besides, Eris mentioned that he was pulling out all of the stops this year. Told me that it is going to be the best Starfall this court has ever seen.” 

You hum, wondering just what that sly, new High Lord might have planned.

“What happens after dinner?” you ask, trailing along a path leading up to the Woodland House. You’re not sure how far it is, but you don’t mind the walk with your mate, drinking in the scenes the court has to offer.

“Then, we’ll congregate on the outer porches and there will be drinks of all kinds,” Lucein explains, perking up again. “You’re going to have to try the cinnamon one, my love. It’s my favorite.” Your mate laughs at your grimace. Cinnamon in the form of alcohol is not your favorite. “There’s also one that tastes like Yulemas. You’ll love that one.” 

“Don’t let me drink too much, Lucien Vanserra,” you tease, “Or I won’t be able to participate in the after Starfall activities.” 

You squeal as Lucein drags you off the path and presses you against a nearby tree, dipping down to taste the taunt from your lips. His tongue brushes the seam of your lips and you part easily for him, moaning when he presses his quickly thickening cock into your hip.

You’re breathless when he straightens, feeling as giddy as ever, like the first time you and he ever kissed.

“How about some pre Starfall activities, my love?” he asks, licking the remnants of you from his lips. His russet eye glows bright and his mechanical one clicks softly.

You take his hand and pull him away from the tree, dragging him back up the path. “Come on then, Vanserra. Show me what you’ve got.”

#lucien x reader #lucien vanserra #lucien vanserra fluff #starfall week 2024 #acotar #azsazz #acomaf #acowar #lucien/reader #lucien vanserra x reader #lucien vanserra x you

[kindasleepywriter]

Bird of Prey - Chapter 10: Cold as Ice

Bird of Prey masterlist. Azriel x Reader.

Chapter summary: An unexpected provocation reveals a hidden part of you.

Story rating: Mature - Minors DNI

Warnings: None.

Word count: 1.7k

You were honestly starting to wonder what kind of magic was infused into the city’s water supply. Couldn’t there be a single day where nothing happened, where you got to just live without another unprecedented event taking place?

Velaris didn’t follow the rules of statistical probabilities and it upset you to no end. The impossible amount of mating bonds, the general number of all-powerful magic wielders, and now the appearance of your apparently hidden gifts… Maybe that’s why the rest of the world was so bleak, it all had to be balanced out somehow.

A break was all you wanted. Some sleep, maybe. Time to read a book.

Instead, immediately after realizing you had summoned your own shadows, Azriel had brought you to a small house that bordered the city, explaining along the way the Night court’s tentative alliance with Eris. The Vansera hadn’t exactly been kind to you during your stay in Autumn, a high contender for the title of the brother you hated most, but you knew he wasn’t completely on board with the way Beron handled his court… despite following his every order. Except for Jesminda, of course. Even he had found it unnecessarily cruel. What happened to her… you still had nightmares about her death, about your screams and Lucien’s broken pleas for mercy.

Now that you knew Eris wanted to overthrow Beron… Well, you couldn’t help but wonder how long he’d been planning for this. He’d alerted Tamlin of the hunt three of his brothers had embarked on after you and Lucien fled, saving both of your lives, but he’d never shown any ounce of concern for either of you before then.

You didn’t know what to think, and you found comfort in the fact that he was still under tight surveillance in the city.

As for your powers, you’d spent the afternoon trying to summon shadows with Azriel’s help, but you were faced with the same absence of power inside you. The frustration you’d felt had only multiplied, feeling like you did during your childhood training, just an utter disappointment to others. You’d gone to bed with an empty stomach, unable to choke down food while stewing in your self-hatred. This was just another thing you were bad at, another proof of your worthlessness. None of Az’s encouragements had even made a dent in the storm cloud that seemed to follow you around.

With your tentative approval, Azriel had asked Nesta to come help the day after, explaining that perhaps the way she summoned her powers would be more useful. Apart from Cassian, she was the only one who you’d interacted with, without too many problems. Your time together in the House of Wind had mostly consisted of silence, but you preferred that over her mate’s incessant chatter.

You hadn’t made any more progress with her .

You sat crossed legged on the living room floor across from the Valkyrie, who mirrored your position. You were exhausted from the mental strain, body tensed so tight that your muscles ached, not to mention the headache gradually turning into a full-blown migraine. This felt useless.

“It’s like trying to bucket water from a dry well.” you gritted through clenched teeth, your frown a permanent fixture since the day before. “I’ve tried every manner known to man to access my supposed powers. They’re not there.”

Nesta tutted. “You need to stop thinking about it as some pocket inside you that you need to reach. It’s a part of your very being and you don’t need to ‘find it’, you need to find the way to wield yourself as a weapon.”

Your fists clenched so hard you felt the familiar burn of your fingernails digging into your palms, a hint of metal hanging in the air. You had all the theoretical knowledge about having magical abilities, you’d heard it a million times before from too many people. The only thing you felt was exasperation simmering into anger.

“I know that Nesta,” you muttered, “but this is useless. I’m not one of you guys, I’m no more useful than a well-trained hound could be. That fact has been shoved in my face my entire life and it’s all I’ve ever been, you’re both wasting your time trying to make me come up with abilities I don’t truly have.”

“Okay, this pity party stops here.” she hissed, done with your self-hatred. You opened your eyes in shock when you felt her moving towards you rapidly. You didn’t even have time to react before she forcibly opened your hands, revealing the drops of blood that slowly dripped from your palms, and shoved you backwards to the ground. You tried to fight against her grip, but she held you in a position of weakness, your legs pinned in their crossed position.

“Nesta, what-” you heard Azriel call, unable to complete his sentence.

“You are going to take the stick out of your ass and stop acting like a child!” she snapped close to your face. “Do you think I care about your daddy issues? Get over yourself and listen.”

“Let go, Nesta.” you warned, your anger fully taking flame as you tried to roll over her. How dare she try to make light of what happened to you? You carried your past like you carried your wings, every second of your life was shadowed by it. “You don’t know what you’re talking about!” you yelled.

The way Azriel was watching this unfold so casually didn’t go unnoticed and only fueled the flames inside you. A little help would’ve been appreciated, but you both knew you’d never be able to ask for it. Maybe that was exactly why he didn’t help, you thought.

“You think you’re the only who’s had a difficult life?” Nesta continued, “That we all lived in grand castles and mansions drinking tea until you arrived? We’ve starved, died, sacrificed it all for Prythian, for our own. Some of us died fighting Amarantha and Hybern while you hid in your little caves. You can hate the Inner Circle all you want, but your excuses don’t mean a thing to me when you’ve been sitting on your ass for centuries whining about your life.”

Blood pounded in your ears, drowning out all other sounds, and you saw red. You finally managed to kick your legs free with a hiss and hooked one around her hips, using the force of your wings to propel your movement forward as you flipped her under you. You twisted your hands out of her grip, all pretense of niceness long gone, and pinned her wrists above her while your knees held her legs down.

“You think I wanted to stand by?” you shouted, so close to her face your noses almost touched. “You think I reveled in the fact that the entirety of Prythian was under siege? Every day I saw people die, every day I wanted to skin Amarantha and Hybern alive, but no one wanted me. Autumn would’ve sold me out in a minute, the Illyrians wanted me dead, and Dawn had already kicked me out! Any place I went, I would’ve been a big red target for people to attack, and I couldn’t take Amarantha and Hybern down alone with my little dagger, don’t you get that? I couldn’t. do. SHIT.”

Your grip on her tightened when she grinned at your words, the picture of satisfaction as you heaved in fury over her. This wasn’t a joke! You couldn’t believe the audacity she’d shown, the disrespect. Did she think making an enemy of you would fix this shitshow? If aggression is what she wanted, she’d get it.

“No abilities, huh?” she said, sarcasm dripping from her every word as your hold on her tightened even more. Any tighter and you knew you’d feel her delicate wrists snap under your fingers, and you were tempted to do so. She looked up to where you clutched her wrists. “Could’ve fooled me.”

You glanced up and gasped. Your hold on her was burning, an icy dance of white flames travelling over her skin and yours, the wood underneath charring from the cold. Her skin remained untouched, as did yours, but the feeling of warmth in your fingers was rapidly leaching away, the circulation of your hands clearly taking a hit.

You jumped back in shock, the flames ceasing the instant you let go of her and scrambled away from her on your ass so fast your wings and head crashed against the wall behind you. A sharp pain shot through your skull and back, echoes of past pains resonating within you again.  

“What the hell was that?” you cried, shaking off your disorientation and flexing your hands as you tried to get blood running through them again. It was like you’d dunked them in icy water, and the floor was even worse off. When you’d released her, the movement against the iced surface had caused it to break into chips of wood, frozen pieces of the blackened floor scattered everywhere.

Azriel rushed over to you, taking your icy hands in his own, trying to bring back some warmth in them.

You barely even noticed; your now watery eyes still fixed on the destruction before you.

“That, my dear, is power,” Nesta snickered and brushed herself off, “more specifically, my power.”

You didn’t understand, your mind grasping at straws trying to comprehend what had just happened. “Was that you?”, you asked shakily.

“Oh no, that was all you.”

If you thought you were confused before, you were absolutely lost now. “But how could I, how did I… What?” you stuttered. You’d been the cause of the floor’s damage, the frozen wood still emitting a cold smoke.

Azriel, who was still holding and rubbing your hands softly as feeling gradually returned to them, turned to you. “I think we’ve been approaching it all wrong.” he said, realization clear in his voice. He laughed slightly. “This must be why you couldn’t produce abilities of your own, Dove. You don’t have your own source of power, because you’re able to bend someone else’s to your will.”

“But what does that mean?” you pleaded, still unable to grasp the implications of it. Was that why you’d been able to summon the shadows, to create that barrier of storm, to burn a door handle, but how could you, without touching the person who provided their magic? Azriel, Feyre, Lucien… they’d all been in your proximity when you’d wielded their powers.

Azriel chuckled more at your question. “It means Rhysand is going to have an aneurysm.”

nothing says "relaxing" quite like your roomate taunting you in a blind rage

Banner created by the amazing @saradika!

Taglist: @sapphenaa @minnieoo @weasleyreidstyles

#azriel x reader #azriel #acotar #acotar x reader #acotar fanfic #azriel fanfic #azriel POV #azriel x you #azriel x y/n #enemies to lovers #bird of prey

[bookish-whore]

Falling Part X

Azriel x Reader

Words: 3.5k

Warnings: Heavy Content (nightmares, SA Trauma, flashbacks)

A/N: After a long hiatus, IT'S FINALLY HERE!!!! If you’re new to this fic then welcome and if you are one of my og readers welcome back. I can’t thank you all enough for your support for this story and I am so ready to continue this journey. I hope you guys like it!! (also this one is definitely for the Lucien shippers ❤️)

My Masterlist -> Here

Falling Masterlist -> Here

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It had been months since Azriel came to the Day Court, but our conversation replayed on a continuous loop in my mind:

“Please don’t go y/n” he begged “Not like this please just- fuck I know how it seems but I have been honest, doesn’t that count for something? I know- I know I hurt you and I hurt Elain but If you just give me a chance, I can fix this, I can fix us.” “I can’t Az” I said, my own tears falling in tandem with his “maybe someday I can forgive you and we can move past this, but not right now” I made my way to the door, reaching for the knob to leave when his voice halted me. “I’m not giving up y/n” he said “I promise you; I don’t care how long it takes. Even if it takes an eternity, I am not giving up on this.”

I went over our last interaction constantly, the desperation in his eyes as I left him on his knees in that room. I felt confident in the moment but leaving him there didn’t make me feel better about any of this, about Elain or our situation. If anything it had left me more confused about what I wanted.

It had also been months since the incident, and I wasn’t sleeping. I found myself plagued by nightmares. No matter what I tried I would wake up every night in a cold sweat the sound of that voice ringing in my head.

“you’re a pretty little thing aren’t you?”

It was paralyzing, I knew that I was safe and in my own bed, but I could feel the chill of the night air as it sank into my bones, I could feel the rough texture of the alley as it scraped my back. I could smell the smoke and liquor on that male’s breath as he leaned in close to me.

“You can scream, but no one’s coming to save you”

I covered my ears, but I could still hear the distinct sound of him unbuckling his belt, the sound of fabric ripping and sliding. Every night I woke up to the feeling of being completely helpless.

But I wasn’t alone in my pain anymore.

I had my first nightmare after the meeting with Azriel and I remember three things distinctly: screaming, throwing the bedsheets off my body, and Lucien.

That night Lucien had heard my screams and barreled through the door ready to fight off an intruder only to find me curled in a ball on the floor at the foot of my bed.

He pulled me into him and didn’t let me go through it alone. He smoothed my hair from my face and let me cry into his chest while whispering words of encouragement in my ear, not that I was cognizant enough in that state to process he was even speaking.

It had become a habit, him holding me when I woke in that state. He would pick me up and tuck me into bed seating himself beside me. I would lean my head on his shoulder, and he would gently ask me If I wanted to talk about it and the times I said no, He would distract me with stories to make me feel better.

He told me about how Feyre was when she came back from under the mountain, that she would have nightmares every night about what she had done to those faeries and he told me he often wondered how Tamlin did nothing when her pain was so loud she was practically screaming to be heard, to be felt, to be understood and he told me how he was so grateful to Rhysand for bringing her back to life. During these conversations he would often tell me that if she could become who she is now out of what she endured that I too would survive and come out of this all stronger than ever.

There were also times when he thought I was asleep that he told me about his own demons, about Jesminda and his family, about lying to Feyre when she first arrived in the Spring Court, and his regret helping Tamlin align himself with Hybern for selfish reasons and how he wished he could explain that to Elain, to Nesta, how he just wanted a chance to apologize.

Lucien had become my savior and he never let me be alone, he was bringing me back to life, whether or not he knew it.

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Today was a late morning, the kind that followed a rough night of shit sleep because the same tired nightmares kept me awake, but Lucien’s calming presence was keeping me sane, he rarely slept in his own bed these days. I stretched out my limbs careful not to wake him beside me and rubbed the sleep from my eyes sitting up to appreciate the day.

It was springtime now and the Day Court was in full bloom, the vibrant colors exploding on every surface as the flowers blossomed, their aroma constantly wafting through the halls, the entangled scents of lavender, gardenia, Hyacinth, Peony and gods knows what else was constantly invading my senses.

Lucien stretched out next to me, making that small little noise in his throat he makes every morning when he wakes up.

“Good morning” I said softly

“Mhmm” he muttered into his pillow; I had learned that despite his consistently friendly demeanor Lucien Vanserra was not a morning person.

“So, what’s on the agenda today” I asked, gently hitting him with a pillow to rouse him faster.

Lucien turned over, sitting up and grabbing the pillow from my grip “Well…” he drawled out with a yawn “I was thinking we could go to the equinox festival.”

“What is that?” I asked.

“Well, you would probably know it as Starfall but it’s a weeklong endeavor here and everyone really goes all out. I mean there are markets and live music and food stalls everywhere. It’s truly a celebration and I think it would be fun.”

“Oh gods- It’s already Starfall?” I asked; my voice much smaller than I intended it to be, Lucien knew that it was one of my favorite celebrations in the Night Court and the thought that I wouldn’t be participating in it this year brought tears to my eyes, but I swiped them before he could see.

“I know how much it hurts not to be there” Lucien said pressing his forehead to mine as he grabbed my hand, interlocking our fingers as his thumb drew circles on the back of it.

“New traditions right” I said softly, reiterating our agreement to work towards moving forward despite our pain.

“Right” he agreed.

“This equinox festival…it sounds like exactly what I need.”

Lucien flashed me a smile, before getting out of bed and pulling on his slippers and dressing robe.

“I’ll meet you downstairs for a late breakfast in an hour?” he asked “Then we can head into town and do some shopping.”

“Only if those lemon blueberry muffins are involved.”

“I will personally see to it.” He said with a smile.

“Then it’s a deal, see you soon Vanserra.”

He made his way to my side of the bed and pressed a kiss to the top of my head before quietly making his way to his own rooms.  

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I took my time getting ready, enjoying the warm bath and soothing salts. I only got out because the water was tepid, and I was hungry. I chose a simple green dress for our outing, it was short sleeved with a flowy skirt that was decorated with floral embroidery, it reminded me of the things I loved about springtime: the way the flowers bloomed, the way the sun shined, the way the birds sang, it reminded me of new beginnings, and I needed that kind of thinking today. I slipped on my everyday boots and pulled my hair into a braid securing it with a ribbon to keep it out of my face during the day and I made my way downstairs.

Lucien was wearing what he usually did, a simple pair of linen pants and a sleeveless vest brocaded with intricate swirling patterns, today it was gold and green. I smirked at his choice because we were practically matching. I had to admit that the green really brought out the color of his eyes, the russet one in stark contrast to the gold mechanical one that was always subtly watching, the green also brought out the fiery orange of his hair, which he had in a loose knot at the back of his head.

I turned sharply at the stairs to make my way to the dining room when Lucien gently grabbed my arm.

“I figured since we were already having a late start that we could make a day of this.”

“How so?”

“Well…” He winnowed away and appeared a moment later holding a large wicker basket “I figured we could set off to the town, taking the scenic route of course, and that we could stop by Larimar Lake to have lunch.”

I went silent, mostly because I was taken aback at the quick planning and his attention to detail. I had just mentioned last week how much I loved that lake and how I wished I could find time to visit more.

“I think that’s a great idea” I said interlocking my arm with his as we began our journey.

We walked towards the stables talking about nothing really, the weather, the flowers and our excitement for the day.

I saw the horses saddled and ready to go. Helion had gifted me Adira, she was a beautiful black mare with a thick wavy mane, she was good tempered and docile. I had taken up riding a few weeks upon arriving as a hobby and had immediately bonded with her and Helion had seen that, He gifted her to me a few days later and we had spent countless hours together. Next to her was Arion, he was Lucien’s horse a chestnut stallion, he was larger than Adira, but they got along well. The stable hands had prepped them both and were waiting for us in front of the stable. Lucien helped me get on Adira first, making sure I was settled comfortably with the reigns and secured the basket to my saddle bag before mounting Arion with ease. With a click of his tongue, both horses began at a slow pace up the winding road towards the lake.

It had been maybe two hours into our ride when we approached the lake, I could smell the water long before I saw it. It was a sight to behold. I remember Lucien told me the first time we came here that they called it Larimar Lake after a crystal of the same name that is a dazzling sparkling blue, according to an old wives tale, when the mother created Prythian she left the crystals to grow in the lake which is how it got its magnificent blue color.

I swung my leg over Adira, jumping off her onto the soft ground below and handed the reigns to Lucien who took them both to a nearby stream and secured them to a tree. He picked a spot close to the lake on a grassy patch and began setting up. He started by putting down a large blanket and setting out the contents of the basket he brought. I however had other ideas.

I quickly took off my boots discarding them and my socks near the blanket Lucien had set up and made my way to the lakes edge. I just wanted to feel the cool water on my skin, as I looked out over its vast depths I couldn’t help but admire the way the sun glittered on the surface like crystal. This- this felt like an integral part of healing, being able to see the beauty in a world that had wronged me so badly.

As I stood barefoot on the sand, letting the delicate waves wash over my feet and up to my ankles. I tipped my head back soaking in the sun’s gentle warmth.

And for a brief moment, everything else slipped away.

And I was…happy

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She was a sight for sore eyes.

I had that thought earlier when she came downstairs in that green dress. I loved her in green, the way it complimented her eyes and the perfect tone of her skin. Y/n looked good in everything but oh gods did she look radiant today.

Our relationship was complicated to say the least. In the last few months all of our time has been spent together. I mean I practically lived in her bedroom returning to my own only for a change of clothes. I also found myself craving the comfort of her presence, the way she laughed, and I mean really laughed from deep in her chest which was becoming more and more common; or the way she clung to me after her nightmares, I even found it hard to fall asleep without the steady soft snoring she did when she fell into a deep sleep.

I felt guilty for developing these feelings for her. Especially when I knew what she endured, when I knew what haunted her, the demons she was avoiding that came for her at night, I held her while she screamed and thrashed and cried and I lulled her to sleep with various stories I thought she would like. Stories that would distract her from her pain, and when I couldn’t think of any, I shared my own pain, to show her that I understood to some extent what she was going through.

I seemed to be the only person she could trust right now, and I valued that more than anything. I would never do anything to jeopardize that, but I couldn’t help but have these feelings for her. Not all the time but there were moments and I wonder if she felt them too. I don’t know exactly when it started but maybe they were always there.

I reminded myself constantly that she wasn’t ready to consider a life without Azriel, he was her mate and he would always have a hold on her life the same way Elain seemed to have a hold on mine, but I also knew that over time the mating bond felt like a headache, a dull pain that would come every once in a while as a sullen reminder of a life that could have been, but one that isn’t a reality and how could I think of what could have been when she was here and she looked so perfect, barefoot with her face angled to the sun.

Here on the lake, she was alive, and she was vibrant, and she was beautiful. Here on the lake, there was no trace of the broken woman I found that night curled into herself, no inkling of doubt, or despair, or pain. I wish I could keep her like this. In fact, I would resign myself to loving her in the shadows so long as she was happy.

I brought myself back to reality at the soft sound of her padding over and plopping herself on the blanket.

“Thank the mother, I am starving” she said grabbing one of the lemon blueberry muffins she requested, as well as various berries and popping them into her mouth

“When are you not?” I teased handing her a plate of all her favorites and a glass of wine.

“Very funny Vanserra” she said grabbing the glass and taking a sip.

“So how far out are we from the town?” she asked after a while.

“Mmmm” I took a sip of my wine “I would say another two hours or so to Illmire”

She nodded, a sly smile crossing her face as she tossed a blueberry at me. I made sure to feign a disappointing smirk at her as it bounced off my forehead and into the grass.

She saw right through it, she always did.

“So, we have a little time?” she asked

“That depends on what you have in mind.”

“I just want to enjoy this a little longer.”

“Okay, I’ll be right here.”

Her face morphed into a frown.

“What?” I asked.

“I want you to come with me.”

“Absolutely not” I said firmly “I have to pack this up and get the horses ready”

“You can spare a few minutes” she pleaded tugging my hand softly “Come on Lucien…come lay in the sun with me.”

I rolled my eyes, getting up from my position to follow her to the water’s edge, and I followed her lead, laying out on the sandy beach letting the sun warm my face.

I looked over at her, her eyes closed as she simply soaked in the sun on her face, letting the cool water gently touch her feet before receding.

If she only knew, I would do anything for her.

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I was surprised Lucien indulged me for as long as he did.

After a while he stood, pulling me up with him and made his way to the blanket, packing away the containers and folding the linens. He piled everything into the bags and secured them to Arion’s side.

I stood in anticipation, fiddling with my hands.

“Go” he said with a smile “I know you want to.”

“you’re the best” I said pressing a kiss to his cheek as I turned and ran towards the water, I pulled my dress over my head and dove in wearing just my undergarments. The water was so clear and cool. I submerged my head, diving to the bottom to look up at the sky through the water. I loved the way the sun reflected off the surface. I came up for air and floated there with my arms outstretched.

Lucien chuckled as he approached with a towel.

“Don’t worry…I planned accordingly.”

“You know me so well” I shouted.

“Take your time” he said “but there are some clouds rolling in from the north, looks like a storm.”

“Help me out?” I asked gesturing my head to the towel in his hands.

Lucien unrolled it, holding it out for me. I walked right into his arms, and he bundled it around me.

“You ready to go?” he asked

“Mhmmm” I nodded toweling my body dry and putting my dress back on, I had to re-braid my hair but it was definitely worth it.

Lucien helped me back into the saddle and we were off to Illmire.

He was right, it was about two hours, but as soon as we got into town the skies opened up and it started pouring. The townsfolk were all scrambling into shops and taverns to get out of the rain, I didn’t mind it so much and neither did Lucien but we made haste to the inn.

The innkeeper’s name was Rasmus and he was a sweet old man, he immediately took Adira and Arion to the stables and set them up for the night. Not to mention he recognized Lucien immediately and refused to let us pay for a room, he even insisted on bringing us dinner later, which worked out because the storm only worsened.

It looked like we were staying the night.

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Taglist (Falling) ->

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#azriel x y/n #azriel x reader #lucien x y/n #lucien x reader #helion x reader #helion x y/n #acotar fanfiction #acotar fanfic #azriel shadowsinger #acotar series #acotar #cassian x nesta #bookish-whore